Issuu

Letter from the Editor

Whether you choose them, or they find you, every pet owner has a story about how their home came to include a furry friend or two.

The year’s Top Dogs are no different. Each has their own unique story of how they joined their forever families.

While many met their humans at local animal shelters, all of them are incredibly loved for the joy they bring, the support they offer and the love they give in return.

In this issue, you’ll read about these dogs as well as some Kankakee County entities that also give joy, support and love back to the pets and the people in the community.

From a multi-generational business pouring their heart into pet health and longevity, to a nonprofit preventing pet hunger and surrenders due to hardship, many have stepped up in times of need.

They all are echoes of a community we witnessed stepping up after the March 10 tornado that devastated the area.

Much like these entities, our pets are also part of our community.

While we may not always have them around, we are lucky to have them for at least a short time to help us through life’s toughest times as well as the greatest triumphs.

So, whether your four-legged companion is young and endlessly energetic or older with gray hairs gathering around their nose, give them an extra scritch on the head today and thank them for all that they do.

Tiffany

Tiffany Blanchette - Magazine Editor

Contributors: Cathy Janek, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske, Pam McCormack, Paul Fruhwirth

Photography: Tiffany Blanchette

LIFESTYLES OF KANKAKEE COUNTY

Published by ShawMedia Phone: 815-936-NEWS

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Laura Shaw

lshaw@shawmedia.com

EDITOR

Tiffany Blanchette 815-937-3380

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Lyle Turro 815-937-3376

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Lauren Powell

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Stay up-to-date between issues! Facebook.com/kankakeelifestyles Instagram.com/lifestyleskankakee

By Tiffany Blanchette

Meet Kankakee County’s Top Dogs

George Betty

GEORGE (On the Cover)

Breed: Heeler

Owners: Rachel Nietfeldt & John Worth, of Kankakee

George is a quirky heeler who is equal parts chill and ready to go all day. He is one year old and still has plenty of puppy playfulness. He tags along with John to work where he gets to run until his heart is content. He came from a herding dog rescue and is just the sweetest and friendliest boy.

BETTY

Breed: German Shepherd

Owners: Veronica & Brad Featherston, of Manteno

Our 100+ pound German Shepherd, Betty, is a best friend to everyone she meets. She enjoys playing hide and seek, letting the neighbors know when other dog friends are nearby, and eating. She’s a giant, happy love bug who lifts spirits every day.

From quiet moments to total chaos, they remind us daily that love shows up in different ways… sometimes with muddy paws and a wagging tail.

Bindi Hope “ “

BINDI

Breed: Great Pyrenees / Blue Heeler mix

Owners: Helen & Evan Dandurand, of Momence

Bindi Windi Peppercorn Dandurand is a 5-year-old Aries carnivore, weighing in at 99 pounds. She is the sassiest girl who wants nothing more than to be pet, loved, and fed rotisserie chicken. She was our first fur baby and is a great big sister to our two cats (Maeve & Merlin) that she loves dearly, and is gearing up to be a sister to a human baby later this year. Bindi has opened our hearts to so much love and joy!

HOPE

Breed: Black Labrador

Owners: Darla & Andy Fritz, of Limestone

Hope is a 5-year-old purebred labrador retriever who loves swimming in the river, going on walks and chasing her ball. She gives love unconditionally. She was our saving grace after the death of our daughter. She brought joy back to our life. She gave us the hope to go on, which is why we named her Hope.

Jinx Willie Sammy

JINX

Breed: Rottweiler mix

Owners: Ellie Berns, of Momence

Jinx was adopted from River Valley Animal Rescue in Momence and is around 4 years old. Her absolute favorite thing is riding in the golf cart. Jinx had an accident which caused her to lose one eye, but she is still just as lovable and adorable. Jinx is one of those “soulmate” dogs that I just know I was meant to have. Being able to adopt her from my hometown makes her even more special. She is proof that shelter dogs make the most wonderful pets.

SAMMY & WILLIE

Breed: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Owners: BJ and Nancy Jurevich, of Limestone

Our inseparable sibling pups show littermates really can make great pets. Sammy is Tricolor and Willie is Blenheim, or white and chestnut color. They love walks and truly do not like to be apart. Ever. At almost 2 years old, their independent personalities and unconditional love set them “a breed apart”!

Sir Duke Sky

SIR DUKE

Breed: Chihuahua

Owners: Patrick & Sharon Skelly, of Bourbonnais

Sir Duke is an 8-year-old chihuahua that was adopted from the Kankakee County Humane Foundation. He is a fan of all food and treats. His favorite toys have squeakers. He loves people, taking long summer walks in the park and laying in the sun.

SKY BLUESKY

Breed: Mixed breed

Owners: Amanda Shoup, of Bradley

Sky Bluesky was adopted during the COVID pandemic for my kids, even though I was afraid of dogs. Shortly after, Sky was admitted to the emergency vet with Parvovirus. When she returned home, she quickly convinced me I didn’t need to be afraid. Soon after, I became her person and she became my Darling. I am no longer afraid of (most) dogs. Now almost 6, Sky has brought much joy, peace, and comfort to our household. Sky is a living example of unconditional love…and the world needs that. I believe she might be a real angel.

Teddy Cedar Timber

TEDDY

Breed: Cavapoo

Owners: Sharon Jackson, of Kankakee

Teddy is 5 years old and loves sitting in his chair to look out the window and enjoy the sunshine. He is the most patient dog. I inherited Teddy from a neighbor friend that passed away about 1 year ago. He is a happy addition to my family!

TIMBER & CEDAR

Breed: Pitbull mixes

Owners: Angelina Gear & David Propes, of Aroma Park

Timber Owen Gear, 13, has spent years perfecting the art of loyalty, patience, and looking slightly offended when dinner is late. Cedar Faye Propes, 6, came into our lives after waiting far too long for a home, and now lives every day like she’s making up for lost time. Cedar was adopted from Kankakee County Humane Foundation just 5 days before the March 10 tornado. She bonded with Timber, who was rescued from Sunrise Center Animal Rescue. They didn’t just become part of our family, they became the heart of it.

May is National Pet Month and our local rescues have many adoptable pets available. Consider visiting one of the many Kankakee County area rescues and giving a pet in need a ‘fur-ever’ home!

Kankakee County Humane Foundation www.k3chf.org 2214 S. Route 1, St. Anne, IL 60964

Phone: 815-933-5999

k3humanefoundation@gmail.com

Kankakee County Animal Control kankakeeil.animalservices.website/shelterpronet/home.spn 134 Mooney Dr., Bourbonnais, IL 60914

Phone: 815-937-2949

Kcarc@k3county.net

River Valley Animal Rescue & Cat Oasis www.rivervalleyanimalrescue.org

Animal Rescue: 3960 Vincennes Trail, Momence, IL 60954

Cat Oasis: 117 E Washington St., Momence, IL 60954

Phone: 815-507-5007

shelter@rivervalleyanimalrescue.org

Sunrise Center Animal Rescue (KCHF partner) www.sunrisecenteranimalrescue.org

3306 Waldron Rd., Kankakee, IL, 60901

Phone: 815-482-4486

sunrisecenterinc@yahoo.com

New Beginnings for Cats www.facebook.com/NEWBEGINNINGSFORCATS

7701 E. 3500 N. Rd., Bourbonnais, IL 60914

Phone: 815-472-4734

newbeginnings4cats@gmail.com

Perfect Paws Animal Rescue www.facebook.com/perfectpawsanimalrescue

Bourbonnais IL 60914

Phone: 843-499-2886

Kirstie@perfectpawsanimalrescue.org

It’s A Pittie Rescue www.rescueapittie.org

Peotone, IL

Phone: 708-792-3311 itsapittierescue@gmail.com

Spizzirri Reptile Rescue & Rehab www.facebook.com/p/Spizzirri-ReptileRescue-Rehab-100077496616713

Momence, IL

Phone: 708-704-9911

SpizzirriReptileRescue@gmail.com

Iroquois County Animal Rescue iroquoiscountyanimalrescue.com 100 Lincoln Ave., Iroquois, IL 60945 Phone: 815-429-4028

Guardian Angel Basset Rescue www.bassetrescue.org 108 E. Main Street, P. O. Box 288, Dwight, IL Phone: 815-584-6521

Gayle’s Rescue www.facebook.com/GaylesRescue Limestone, IL Phone: 815-685-0319

South Suburban Humane Society southsuburbanhumane.org 21800 Central Ave., Matteson, IL 60443 Phone: 708-755-7387 office@southsuburbanhumane.org

OFFERS A DISTINCT EVENT SETTING IN KANKAKEE

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

For the couple’s first dance, generations gathering to celebrate family and fundraisers supporting local organizations are just some of the many special events at Deer Ridge Barn in Kankakee.

When Marci Sadler and her business partner, Ken Lundquist, purchased the 10-acre property, they were thinking it would be a house flip, but as they delved into the overgrown trees and grass, they discovered the barn on the property and had a new vision for the site.

“The barn has so much character and charm,” Sadler explained.

With the addition of a third business partner, Mike Blum, the trio that has been friends since high school, changed course and created an event venue that is taking off as a location for weddings, life celebrations, corporate retreats and events.

“People from all over the U.S. have come to our venue,” Sadler said. “Last year, more than 22,000 people attended events at Deer Ridge Barn.”

In 2026, the venue will launch its fourth full season, and the team is already booking events through 2028, Sadler

said. The property can accommodate indoor and outdoor celebrations, with a capacity for more than 400.

Deer Ridge Barn can host events seven days a week, 12 months of the year. The barn has been fitted for heat, air conditioning, and it has indoor plumbing and restrooms. Sadler said the business partners are committed to reinvesting dollars into the location for maintenance and continued upgrades. The barn is wheelchair accessible and the location is an inclusive venue.

Sadler and Lundquist are retired real estate investors who are launching a second career in managing the location and its growing interest. In addition to Deer Ridge Barn, the couple also purchased the property that houses venue The Majestic in downtown Kankakee and they are developing plans to create an additional space for a speakeasy bar at the location.

With its location a few miles from downtown Kankakee, the team at Deer Ridge Barn is a growing asset to the local economy, creating a new source of revenue for local businesses, from hotels to restaurants and retail.

“We’re very accessible to everything Kankakee,” Sadler said. Deer Ridge Barn has developed partnerships with

local vendors to support events. Sadler said Country Table is a preferred caterer. “They’ve been a fantastic partner,” Sadler added.

Deer Ridge Barn has a liquor license and can provide full bar service for events.

Couples who book their weddings can also access the grounds for their engagement photos, using the rustic woods as a backdrop to their photos. In addition to the barn, there is a house on the property that can sleep up to 14. Sadler said some couples are renting the entire

property, including the house, to use it for guests staying overnight and for the bridal party to prepare for the wedding day.

While couples love the venue for its rustic barn and opportunities for incredible wedding photos inside and outside, Sadler said the location also makes it perfect for hosting events such as bridal showers, baby showers, anniversary and birthday dinners and fundraising events for community organizations.

This spring, she’s also booked corporate retreats, as businesses move from desks and conference centers into the beautiful barn, which can accommodate a large group.

“We get to be a part of these special days, and I couldn’t imagine a more perfect place to be,” Sadler said.

(763) 350-6099 | www.deerridgebarn.com 4345 W. 1500N Road, Kankakee, IL 60901 deerridgebarn@gmail.com

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

It’s the type of questions that keep people up at night. How to apply for Medicaid for a loved one? How to access social security? What are my options now that my child with disabilities has aged out of school services?

These and many other questions prompted a pair of best friends to create Our Aging Services, Resources for Developmental Disabilities & Seniors.

Leslee Schafer and Megan Turner are the co-founders of Our Aging Services, pooling their experiences, knowledge and compassion for families caring for loved ones. These two are more than co-founders. They are childhood best friends who’ve had each other’s backs since 5th grade.

When Schafer and Turner meet with clients to help them navigate questions they aren’t just providing information. Much of what they have learned has been through their own lives, as parents to children with disabilities.

“Hank is my why,” Turner explained, talking about her son. “Everything we share with families is what we’re doing or we have done.”

Established in 2023, Our Aging Services is a resource to connect families with other resources and procedures. The road to caring for a child with disabilities as they age out of the school system, or caring for an elderly relative, isn’t easy. There is paperwork, processes and many questions. Schafer and Turner aim to be a support for families in a sea of questions as they seek government funding, access therapeutic resources and seek case management.

“There can be such a stigma,” Schafer said. “We want to open the door to resources.”

While they serve families throughout the country, they have a special connection to Kankakee, where the duo grew up and see a gap in the resources for families. “We decided to go forward and share our knowledge,” Schafer said.

One of the areas they can assist with is helping families understand processes when it comes to applying for supplemental security income and Medicaid for their children with disabilities.

Turner said, “There is a bureaucratic maze to access these resources. We are a safe space to help families navigate these resources and explore their options.”

While there is a cost for their services, Schafer said the organization and its board of directors is committed to helping all families and not letting costs detract from being able to access support.

“We understand that times are really tough,” Schafer said.

In the mission of Our Aging Services is to advocate with kindness and create spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, can live. One of the ways it fulfills this mission is with education and support for those with dementia. Studies show dementia diagnosis on the rise, and Schafer said there is a real concern in the lack of caregivers to meet the demand for individuals dealing with memory loss.

In collaboration with Dementia Friendly Kankakee County, Our Aging Services offers Cafe of Mistaken Orders™ – a program that brings together community members to gain a better understanding and awareness of dementia. The aim is to help others understand what it’s like to have dementia and what it’s like to care for someone with dementia. The next program is slated for May 19.

“Anyone, any age, including children, can benefit from the experience,” Schafer said. “It’s an emotional experience.”

(888) 742-2850 | www.ouragingservices.org 555 S. Rutledge Ave., Kankakee, IL 60901 info@ouragingservices.org

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

SChamber brings community together

ummer is on the horizon, but for the members of the Manteno Chamber of Commerce, they’re already thinking about crisp autumn weather and brats with sauerkraut.

Planning for the Manteno Oktoberfest starts just after the new year to ensure the community’s four-day event will be the year’s highlight and a huge tourism draw for the town.

Last year’s festival attracted more than 61,000 guests over the four days, with visitors coming from well beyond the region. The Manteno Chamber of Commerce coordinates the event, but it truly takes a village to produce a large fundraiser that supports local businesses as well.

“We want to bring the community together,” said Ashley Peterson, president and CEO of the Manteno Chamber of Commerce.

In April, Peterson stepped into the dual role as head of the chamber and marketing for the village of Manteno. She comes to the role after having served as an influencer for the chamber for the past four years and as the vendor coordinator for the annual Oktoberfest.

“I’m very happy and proud I can jump into this role,” Peterson said.

An influencer is a role similar to what many chambers call their ambassadors, someone who connects the chamber and the business community. Several years ago, the Manteno Chamber adopted the title influencer to better describe how chamber members connect with the business community as well as the residents.

“We are advocates for Manteno,” Peterson said.

While some chambers produce events limited to only its membership, Manteno Chamber, with around 200 members, goes beyond its networking groups and informational events and serves the greater community.

Whether it’s mentoring students at Manteno High School, hosting manufacturing roundtables or community-wide events, the chamber brings community resources together. One example is the Chamber’s annual Back to School Bash in July, which brings families to a single venue to learn about organizations as well as businesses, and serves as a way to collect school supplies to support families.

“People get to know about organizations and businesses in one place, and everyone can stay connected,” Peterson said.

In June, the Manteno Chamber will host its annual Community Golf Outing, which is expected to sell out. It’s another example of an event that bridges the chamber and the greater Manteno community.

Peterson said producing Oktoberfest is a small, but mighty committee coordinating the pet parade, the Saturday night lighted parade, vendors, the business and craft booths and the hundreds of volunteers from high school football players and members of the Manteno Interact Club to the volunteers from the Project Headspace and Timing, an organization dedicated to supporting the mental health of local veterans and their families.

Peterson, who grew up in Bradley, came to Manteno as a young adult, citing the community’s affordability as a draw. And 19 years later, she found Manteno to be priceless.

“I moved here not knowing anyone. I saw Manteno transforming through the years,” Peterson said.

Her role as a leader for the chamber isn’t merely about growing businesses; it’s about continuing to promote a village where everyone lends a hand, cheers for the hometown teams, and rises to help each other.

“The community really does come together,” she said.

(815) 468-6226 | www.mantenochamber.com 98 E. Third St., Manteno, IL 60950 info@mantenochamber.com

AMade with LOVE

Local sisters continue family legacy of handmade, healthy pet treats

By Cathy Janek | Photos by Tiffany Blanchette with

images provided by Dr. Becker’s Bites

local pet treat company is an all-family affair with two sisters now leading the way.

Today, sisters and co-owners Blair Becker and Danielle Ulrich run the day-to-day operations of their three-generation family business, Dr. Becker’s Bites, which makes healthy treats from scratch in St. Anne, Illinois.

The idea for the business came about after veterinarian Dr. Karen Becker asked her mom, Jeannine, to create a healthy pet treat using only pure, human-grade ingredients that could be broken into pieces and would be irresistible to the pets visiting her clinic.

Blair said her aunt, Dr. Karen Becker, started the “first proactive, functional medical vet clinic” in the Kankakee area in 1999.

Many of the pets Dr. Becker saw were ailing, in need of a second opinion, or were told by their primary veterinarians that there was nothing that could be done to improve their health.

“When they came to her, they were sick, not eating, grumpy, or not feeling well,” said Blair Becker, now the Chief Executive Officer.

Blair said no treats existed that could last throughout the exam to “keep the pets calm and happy,” but were also nutritionally safe and included no fillers. At the time, there weren’t any all-meat treats out on the market, she said.

Sisters and Dr. Becker’s Bites co-owners Blair Becker, left, CEO, and Danielle Ulrich, CMO.

The women behind Dr. Becker’s Bites, from right, Jeannine Becker, Blair Becker, Dr. Karen Becker, and Danielle Ulrich.

So, Blair’s grandma Jeannine set off to create a pet treat using human-grade beef liver.

“For almost a year, she messed around until she found this Willy Wonka process that is our treats today,” Blair said.

Initially, Dr. Becker sold the treats to clients at her vet clinic and more than 20 years ago, Dr. Becker’s Bites first appeared locally at Bradley’s Razzle Dazzle Doggie Bow-tique.

“Ever since then we have just kept growing and growing,” Blair added.

Now, Dr. Becker’s Bites can be found in about 200 stores across the United States, as well as online at DrBeckersBites.com and at two local farmers markets, the Kankakee Farmers’ Market and Frankfort Country Market.

For a time, Blair’s dad, John, stepped in to help with the business as CEO. John, along with Jeannine, are still part owners.

During his tenure, the products grew from one original beef bite to include other protein-based bites. Now, Dr. Becker’s Bites offers 35 types of treats and products for pets, including varieties with lamb, bison, veggies, berries, and venison. The treats use only 100% USDA inspected, human-grade beef and bison liver and heart. They are free of grains, carbs and preservatives.

Some of the most popular items, Blair said, include the original beef bites and the Forever Dog Bites that include organic beef liver and four types of longevity supplements.

Today, they also offer a functional health line that uses a liver base with added nutraceuticals and supplements to support pet health needs, including digestion, joints, stress, detoxification, and microbiome balance.

“The pet world is 10 years behind the human world,” Blair said. But, there is now a growing focus on eliminating processed foods and additives from pet food.

However, when Dr. Becker’s Bites began it was one of the first.

Blair joined the team more than 12 years ago and Ulrich came on about five years ago.

Ulrich’s addition has been a “blessing,” according to Blair. Ulrich is now the Chief Marketing Officer.

With many of the original creators of Dr. Becker’s Bites retired and living in Arizona, Ulrich “has helped me build the company even more,” Blair said.

Still, Blair’s grandma Jeannine, the original CEO and founder, writes some of the blogs that appear on the website while Ulrich assists with customer service and social media alongside daily production needs.

Blair joked in the five years of working together, “We only got into one argument and then we were back to best friends the next day.”

Years ago, Dr. Becker’s Bites moved out of “grandma’s kitchen” and are now made in a bakery in downtown St. Anne with the help of several bakers, according to Blair

“We do everything handmade from start to finish,” she said, “We get the meat, we grind it up, do the baking process, hand cut the treats, fill the bags, and ship them out.”

“We all work together,” Blair added.

The sisters also make it a point to give back to the community, with donations of treats sent to area animal shelters as well as places across the country after disaster strikes.

Since 1999, the three-generation family remains devoted to changing the lives of four-legged companions.

Whether through education, hands-on training or the treats they’ve crafted over 25 years, their focus remains on the health and well-being of all creatures.

Dr. Becker’s Bites is a weekly vendor at the Kankakee Farmers’ Market held Saturdays through October from 8 a.m. to noon in downtown Kankakee, and at the Frankfort Country Market held Sundays through Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in downtown Frankfort.

and Danielle

Sisters Blair Becker and Danielle Ulrich operate Dr. Becker’s Bites in St. Anne.

Blair Becker

Ulrich offer up some Dr. Becker’s Bites treats to grandma Jeannine Becker’s dog Homer.

A helping hand

Huckleberry’s Snack Shack helps pets in need

By Cathy Janek | Photos by Tiffany Blanchette

With the goal of keeping pets in their homes and out of shelters, a local nonprofit is helping provide food for the pets of area struggling families.

With years of volunteering helping both humans and pets in need, Manteno resident Jamie Skraban started Huckleberry’s Snack Shack several years ago.

The nonprofit is named after Skraban’s dog, Huckleberry, who she adopted in 2013.

Huckleberry was one of Mama Petunia’s puppies, a rescue dog who came to It’s A Pittie Rescue injured and pregnant.

As part of Skraban’s volunteer efforts with that group, she chronicled the life of Mama Petunia on a Facebook page that grew to tens of thousands of followers.

Below: An image of the pantry’s namesake, founder Jamie Skraban’s late dog Huckleberry, decorates a bag.

Jamie Skraban, left, founder of nonprofit Huckleberry’s Snack Shack, stands with her father, Marty, a frequent volunteer, at the Bradley pet food pantry site at 141 S. Kinzie Ave.

“I really resonated with her being alone and scared, and got on Facebook and started writing about her and it just blew up,” Skraban said.

As part of her volunteer work with that rescue, Skraban also listened to the organization’s voicemails.

She explained that people often left messages with the organization about a spouse losing a job, rent increases, or a new baby and “they could no longer afford to feed their dog.”

At the time, Skraban thought this was something she could help with. From there, she began to focus on founding her new nonprofit. She began collecting nearly expired or slightly damaged pet food donated from local businesses and temporarily stored the food in her apartment and her parents’ basement until she could redistribute it to pet owners in need.

Skraban, who also works full-time, often receives help from her dad, Marty, and a small group of dedicated volunteers who stock the organization’s micro pantry and pick up donated food.

“Our volunteers are truly the heart of everything we do. None of this would be possible without their dedication and the support of the community. I may help coordinate the efforts, but it’s the community that brings it all to life,” she said. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together.”

Becoming an official nonprofit in 2022, Huckleberry’s Snack Shack now opens its doors on Monday evenings for families in need of food for their pets at its location at 141 S. Kinzie Ave. in Bradley.

“We probably see 30 to 40 people each Monday,” Skraban said.

In 2025 alone, the nonprofit provided food to more than 1,000 dogs and more than 2,220 cats. To meet the demand for pet food, Huckleberry’s Snack Shack received more than 25,000 pounds of donated food from local partners, including Razzle Dazzle, Bentley’s Pet Stuff, Meijer, local Dollar General stores, and Amazon over the last year.

The nonprofit also purchases pet food at a reduced rate from Rescue Pack, a Midwest-based nonprofit supplier of pet food and supplies. In times of extreme need, Skraban creates an Amazon Wishlist.

Skraban explained, “We’ve also assisted in more complex situations, including feral cat and hoarding cases, when resources allow. We do our best to help wherever we can, but because we are a small, community-funded organization, there are times when limited funding means we unfortunately have to say no or prioritize the most urgent needs.”

Huckleberry’s Snack Shack also sponsors toy drives that go to smaller shelters that don’t receive many donations.

A photo of founder Jamie Skraban holding her late dog Huckleberry as a puppy is pinned at top left of the rainbow bridge memorial board at the pantry.

When Skraban delivers the toys, she also brings their volunteers “cupcakes, cookies, and candy as a thank you for what they do.”

Huckleberry’s Snack Shack aims to “sponsor at least one surgery each month to help reduce overpopulation and support responsible pet ownership,” Skraban said.

In addition, the nonprofit also helps with community outreach including helping coordinate spay/neuter clinics and microchip events.

Unfortunately for Skraban, her journey with her nonprofit does not include the companionship of her dog, Huckleberry, the organization’s namesake, who died in 2018 from a rare heart condition.

“Honoring his life became the driving force behind everything I’ve built since,” Skraban said.

Scan QR Code for more information, at Huckleberry’s Snack Shack Facebook page.

Jamie Skraban holds a collage of photos of her late dog, Huckleberry, who inspired her efforts to help pets in need.

Nancy and Steve Tholen, center, stand with their son Chris Tholen, right, and grandson Tanner Tholen, left, at Tholens’ Landscape & Garden Center’s Kankakee site. The four generations are stewarding the business into its 50th anniversary year.

Tholens’ Landscape &

Center perseveres for 50 years Generations of growth

Garden

By Cathy Janek | Photos by Tiffany Blanchette

Just weeks after a tornado and hailstorm came through the Kankakee River Valley causing severe damage to the area, one local family-owned garden center is seeing its operations well on its way to recovery.

Among other jobs, the staff of Tholens’ Landscape & Garden Center are busy assuring customers that both its Bourbonnais and Kankakee locations are open for business.

“We are here serving the public like we always have,” said Nancy Tholen, who runs the business with her husband, Steve, both of Limestone.

“We are open Monday through Saturday and fully functioning. The only thing we don’t have at our Kankakee location six weeks after the fact is our operating greenhouses,” she added.

With pieces of their business scattered across the site following the March 10 tornado, the couple immediately vowed to rebuild.

As the business celebrates its 50th year, the couple said there was simply no other choice.

“We have a business we have to keep going,” Steve said a few days following the storm. “We are going to keep going.”

“I could not tell you the year,” but Nancy remembered a fire that occurred three days before a Christmas open house at the Bourbonnais location.

“We thought that was really devastating, but we got through it,” she said.

“This by far,” Nancy said, “is worse than that,” noting the significant damage to six buildings, vehicles, and fencing. “However, in six weeks, we have accomplished a lot.”

“We’re going to get it fixed. We’re going to get through it,” Nancy said.

Perennials are being delivered by the truckload with more

going to the Bourbonnais location for the time being due to the demolished greenhouse at the Kankakee site.

With repair work beginning within days of the storm, four of the major components of repairs to the front of the Kankakee storefront have been completed. Nancy noted that more work still is to be completed on the greenhouses, dirt shed, tool shed, and the storefront sign, “but with what we have gotten done, we can operate.”

“It will look like Tholens’ when people roll by,” she added. The Tholens credit the help of friends and family who came out to assist with the clean up along with her fellow church members who came in two weeks after the storm to walk the field of the garden center’s neighbor.

“A lot of our debris was in our neighbors farm field,” she said. “Without that help, we would not be where we are today.”

Before the storm, Nancy said they were unsure of how they were going to mark the 50th anniversary. Once things

settle down, she added, “I think we may do more now than we were going to do.”

For now, Nancy is going to keep those plans to herself—just in case she is unable to see the celebration plans through.

Steve and Nancy Tholen started Tholens’ Garden Center 50 years ago along with Steve’s parents, Wayne and Alice Tholen. The couple got married in September 1975, returned from their honeymoon and purchased a former schoolhouse and one acre parcel in October of the same year. The business would be established in 1976.

“That winter we built the front of the store onto the schoolhouse, which is the same building that had the wall blown out, the windows blown out, and the roof damaged” during the most recent storm, she said.

With many of those items repaired or scheduled to be repaired shortly, Nancy said they are determined to “put one foot in front of the other and rebuild,” she said. “The whole community has gone through this.”

Along with Steve and Nancy, their son, Chris, has worked at the now fourth-generation business since he was 16 years old. In addition, now Chris’s son, Tanner, works at the 80-acre nursery in Kankakee. A granddaughter also works there on a part-time basis, Nancy said.

One of her favorite parts of running the business for all these years, Nancy said, is working with the people. If someone comes in wanting to buy a tree, she said Tholens’ is determined to help them make the best possible purchase for their planting situation.

“We have built our reputation on helping people choose plants and trees that are best for them,” Nancy said.

Still, Steve and Nancy Tholen are looking forward to cutting back on some of the hours spent at the garden center. “We have been here from day one. At the end of these 50 years, we are planning on stepping back. We are not going to retire completely but we are going to slow down,” said Nancy, who hopes to add in free time for some fishing.

Tholens’ offers locally grown balled and burlapped trees and shrubs with trees from their 80-acre nursery along the Iroquois River. The 11,000 sq foot greenhouse in Bourbonnais is filled with vibrant annuals, tropicals, and perennials in spring, while fall brings a stunning array for customers’ homes.

The family-owned establishment offers a wide array of services, including a greenhouse, garden center, florist, and gift shop.

Scan QR Code for more information, at tholenshgs.com.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 chicken breasts

• 1 cup AP flour

• 2 lemons

• 1 shallot, minced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ cup white wine

• ½ cup chicken broth/stock

• Vegetable oil

SPRING CHICKEN PICCATA

From the Kitchen Of Paul Fruhwirth

DIRECTIONS:

1. Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise, creating a total of four cutlets. Place a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper over the chicken and pound to an equal thickness across the breast, about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, set aside.

2. Juice one lemon and discard the shell. Slice the remaining lemon into ¼ inch slices. Mince the shallot and garlic until they are both very fine. Chop the parsley, grate the parmesan and drain the capers.

• 6 TBL salted butter, cut into six pieces

• Salt & pepper

• 3 TBL capers, drained

• 1 TBL chopped fresh parsley, optional

• Angel hair pasta, for serving

• Freshly grated Parmesan, for serving

3. Add the flour to a shallow dish and carefully coat each chicken cutlet with the flour, shaking off excess. In a 12-inch stainless steel skillet, heat 1 TBL vegetable oil over medium-high until shimmering. Cook the chicken cutlets on one side until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Flip the chicken and brown for another two minutes. Remove chicken to a plate (do not cover).

4. Heat another TBL of vegetable oil in the now-empty skillet. Add minced shallots and stir until they start to turn translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Once the garlic is fragrant, add the white wine and cook until reduced by half. Add the chicken stock, lemon juice and sliced lemons, stirring occasionally.

5. Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet and coat in the sauce and until the chicken is cooked through, another 3-4 minutes. In the last minute of cooking, add butter one tablespoon at a time and incorporate into the sauce. Add the capers and continue to stir.

6. Serve immediately over angel hair pasta with plenty of sauce, parmesan and fresh parsley.

DATEBOOK

MAY 29

Sunset Stroll - North Head to downtown Kankakee for the Sunset Stroll on North Schuyler Avenue from 6-10 p.m. on Friday, May 29. Enjoy live music as well as street performers and food vendors from downtown eateries. Adults 21+ can stroll with purchased beverages.

SATURDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER

Kankakee Farmers Market

A weekend staple returns on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon at the Farmers’ Market lot, 250 S. Schuyler Ave. in Kankakee. Fresh local produce, handmade goods, and delicious treats from 50 or more vendors await each week, rain or shine. Visit downtownkankakee.com/events/ farmers-market for more info.

FIRST & THIRD WEDNESDAYS THROUGH SEPTEMBER

Manteno Market at the Square

From 4 to 8 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays, Manteno’s Square on Second will host the return of a farmers’ market. Attendees can enjoy fresh produce, sweet treats, baked goods and unique craft finds from local vendors at the Square, 98-2 W. 2nd St., Manteno.

SUNDAYS THROUGH SEPTEMBER

Kimberly’s Artisan Market in Grant Park

Kimberly’s Artisan Market is a new, weekly market held on Sundays from 1-4 p.m. at the Grant Park Police Department parking lot. This market will showcase farmfresh produce, handcrafted items, cottage food vendors, musical acts, food trucks, and entertainment for the entire family. Visit the Kimberly’s Artisan Market Facebook page for more information.

EVERY SUNDAY THROUGH AUGUST

Momence Park District Farmers Market

Stop by Island Park at 79 Mill Street in Momence from 12:30-3:30 p.m. on Sundays to browse the vendor market, held the first and third Sundays of June, July, August, and September. For more info, visit momenceparkdistrict.org.

SUMMER THURSDAYS STARTING JUNE 4

Kankakee Municipal Band’s Music Under the Stars

Join the Kankakee Municipal Band for their summer concert series each Thursday evening at 7 p.m. at Bird Park’s Don Palzer Band Shell along the Kankakee River on the park’s north side. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for the free concert season, which runs through Aug. 6. A special performance will be held on Saturday, July 4 at 6:30 p.m. at Kankakee Community College to accompany the fireworks.

JUNE 4 - 6

Bradley 315 Music Fest

The festival is set to return to Bradley for a three-day event featuring national and local musical acts along with food, a carnival, car show, vendors and more. Taking the stage will be national singing sensations and local talent each night! The event takes place near the Northfield Square mall at 1600 IL-50, Bourbonnais. Visit bradley315.org for more information.

JUNE 5

Friday Night

Concert Series

Kick off your weekend with the Friday Night Concert Series from 6-9 p.m. at the Hill Stage at the Harold & Jean Miner Festival Square, 199 S. E. Ave. in downtown Kankakee. Concerts are free with rotating artists and food trucks. The event reoccurs on June 19, July 3, July 17, and Aug. 7. Bring a chair, relax on the Square, and enjoy a night of great sound and community. For lineups, go to downtownkankakee.com.

SUMMER FRIDAYS STARTING JUNE 5

Food Truck Fridays

Gather your friends, co-workers, or family and head to Perry Farm Park for an outdoor lunch with a rotating lineup of delicious food trucks. The event occurs each Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in June, July and August. Visit btpd.org for the lineup.

JUNE 6

Cruis’n the Square Cruise into Downtown Kankakee for a car show on the Square featuring classic cars, custom builds, and hometown pride. From 6 to 8 p.m., stroll the Square, meet fellow car lovers, and enjoy a day of chrome, engines, and community. The event returns to the 100 & 200 blocks of South Schuyler Avenue on Aug. 1, Sept. 5, and Oct. 3. Visit downtownkankakee.com for info.

JUNE 10

Sandwiches with a Side of Jam

Get your midweek dose of live music, local eats and sunshine at this free lunchtime concert series, which runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Depot at Harold & Jean Miner Festival Square. The series reoccurs on July 8 and August 12. Visit downtownkankakee.com for lineups.

JUNE 13

Relay for Life of Kankakee County

The 2026 Relay For Life of Kankakee County, presented by Riverside Cancer Institute, is set to return on Saturday, June 13 to The Grove at Goselin Park, 700 Main St. NW., Bourbonnais. The day-long event starts at 2 p.m. with an opening ceremony. This community event supports the American Cancer Society with a “Superheroes Among Us” theme, featuring team fundraising, survivor recognition, and activities. Register as a team, individual or survivor at relayforlife.org/kankakeeil or by calling 800-227-2345.

JUNE 14

Heroes, Hogs & Hot Rods Festival

From noon to 8 p.m., visit Manteno’s Square on Second for a day of celebrating veterans and bringing the community together. Hosted by nonprofit Project Headspace and Timing, live music, craft vendors, and a resource fair will be accompanied by BBQ and Strongman competitions as well as food trucks, raffles and a car show. Visit projectheadspaceandtiming.org for more information.

JUNE 14

Strawberry Jazz Festival

Singing, shopping and strawberries will be plentiful on the grounds of Northfield Square mall for the annual Strawberry Jazz Festival, organized by the Community Arts Council of Kankakee County. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., attendees can enjoy a variety of strawberry treats, live performances by local artists and groups, food trucks, a kid’s zone and dozens of artists, crafters and vendors. For more info, visit communityartscouncil.org.

JUNE

Rockin’ on the Square

Join the village of Manteno for its monthly summer concert series kickoff on June 19 from 6-10 p.m. at the Square on Second. The event features food trucks with music beginning at 7 p.m. On June 19, The Simple Remedy will perform, July 17 will be Dirty Pop and Aug. 21 will be Rosie and the Rivets. The event is free and allows BYOB. Visit villageofmanteno.com/events for more details.

JUNE 20

Night at the Museum

Ever wonder what happens after the museum closes? Join us for an unforgettable experience on Saturday, June 20 as you watch the Kankakee County Museum exhibits come to life! Bring your flashlights, friends, and appetite for this special interactive tour through the museum campus, 801 S. 8th Avenue, Kankakee. Learn more at kankakeecountymuseum.com.

JUNE 24 - 28

Bourbonnais Friendship Festival

The Bourbonnais Friendship Festival returns Wednesday, June 24 through Sunday, June 28. The annual, free family event fills the village with music, parades, and other festivities. The event is located behind the Bourbonnais Municipal Building, 600 Main St NW. Visit bourbonnaisfriendshipfestival.com for more info.

DATEBOOK

JUNE 25

Kankakee Kultivators Garden Walk and Artisan Faire

Join the Kankakee Kultivators Garden Club for their 33rd annual signature event from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, June 25. Start at the Civic Auditorium next to the Kankakee County Museum, 801 S. 8th Ave., Kankakee, where the free Artisan Faire also runs until 3 p.m. to browse the 40+ expected artisan vendors, along with food trucks, and raffles. There will be 8 curated, beautiful gardens on the walk this year. Tickets are $30 (include a boxed lunch from Bennett-Curtis House). Visit facebook. com/kankakeekultivators for more details.

JUNE 26

Sunset Stroll - Central

New this year, Kankakee will host a Sunset Stroll Central from 6-10 p.m. on Friday, June 26. More details coming soon at downtownkankakee.com.

JULY 1

BTPD Summer Concert Series

The Summer Concert Series returns to Perry Farm Park each Wednesday in July from 7-8:30 p.m. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy a free night of music at the park. Visit btpd. org for the lineup.

JULY 4

Les Artisans Arts & Crafts Fair

The Bourbonnais Grove Historical Society will host its popular event on the Fourth of July from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kankakee County Fairgrounds Expo Center, 213 W. 4000S Rd. in Kankakee. The event will feature dozens of artists, makers, bakers, and growers, with handmade and homemade items at all price points. Visit facebook.com/ LesArtisansFair for more info.

JULY 19

Coffee, Cars & Cigars

Part of the Cruis’n the Square series, Coffee, Cars & Cigars is a special morning meetup held 9 a.m. to noon in downtown Kankakee, featuring breakfast, fresh coffee, a local cigar lounge, and a relaxed showcase of classic and modern cars. The event returns to the 100 & 200 blocks of South Schuyler Avenue on Sept. 20.

JULY 24 - 25

Merchant Street MusicFest

The 2026 Merchant Street MusicFest returns for two days of music and arts on July 24 and 25 at the historic downtown Train Depot at the Harold and Jean Miner Festival Square. The event is a community celebration featuring local, regional, and national musical talent on three stages, art vendors, and great food and drinks. Visit merchantstreetmusicfest.com for more details.

JULY 29 - AUGUST 2

Kankakee County Fair

Livestock shows, commercial exhibits, fair food, creative art exhibits and free Grandstand shows will return for the annual Kankakee County Fair at the fairgrounds located at 213 W. 4000 S Rd. in Kankakee. For details, visit kankakeefair.org.

AUGUST 15

Bourbonnais Food Truck Fest

Save your appetite for the annual Bourbonnais Food Truck Fest returning Saturday, August 15 at The Grove at Goselin Park, 700 Main St. NW. Bring lawn chairs, blankets for the free community event. More info at villageofbourbonnais. com.

AUGUST 21

Sunset Stroll - South

Head to downtown Kankakee for the Sunset Stroll on South Schuyler Avenue from 6-10 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 21. Enjoy live music as well as street performers and food vendors from downtown eateries. Adults 21+ can stroll with purchased beverages.

JUNE IN BLOOM: Why pollinators matter more than ever

By Pam McCormack

June marks National Pollinator Month, a time to recognize the small but mighty creatures responsible for keeping our gardens blooming and our food supply thriving. From backyard flower beds to local farms across Kankakee County, pollinators like bees, butterflies, birds, and even bats play a critical role in sustaining plant life.

Pollination occurs when pollen is transferred from the male part of a flower to the female part, allowing plants to produce fruits, vegetables, and seeds. Without this process, many of the foods we rely on, such as apples, cucumbers, pumpkins, and more, would be in short supply. In fact, experts estimate that one out of every three bites of food we eat depends on pollinators.

According to the University of Illinois’ pollinators group, pollinator populations have been declining due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. That’s why National Pollinator Month serves as both a celebration and a call to action.

The good news is that residents can make a meaningful difference with simple steps at home. One helpful action for pollinators is planting native flowers that bloom throughout the growing season to provide a consistent food source.

FUN FACTS: Bees

Other helpful assistance includes limiting or eliminating pesticide use, especially during peak pollinator activity times. Also, create a pollinator-friendly habitat with a mix of flowering plants, shrubs, and small water sources.

Leave some areas of your yard a little “wild” to offer shelter and nesting spots, while supporting local farmers’ markets and growers who prioritize pollinator-friendly practices. Even small changes can have a big impact, especially when communities come together with a shared purpose.

Beyond their ecological importance, pollinators, especially bees, are fascinating creatures.

As summer unfolds in the Kankakee area, National Pollinator Month is a reminder that protecting these vital species starts right in our own backyards.