Crafters and vendors sought for Marklund’s 2010 Spring Craft Fair

Calling all crafters and vendors! Marklund’s 2010 Spring Craft Fair will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 1, at the Marklund Hyde Center, 1 South 450 Wyatt Dr. Geneva. All types of crafters are welcome to apply for booth space and to join the fun. There will be many crafters selling their handmade items as well as unique gifts from food and cosmetic vendors. In addition, there will be a Marklund booth featuring items handcrafted by Marklund’s developmental training clients.

Proceeds of the Spring Craft Fair go to Marklund, an organization that provides compassionate care for infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities.

“Our craft fairs are so popular with the public,” said Vicki Krystof, director of development at Marklund, “It’s the perfect time to purchase something meaningful for Mother’s Day, the perfect one-of-a-kind surprise for the graduating student, and even gifts for upcoming summer weddings.”

A 6’x8’ space is available for $35. A table and electricity each cost $5 extra. Set-up times are 4 – 6 p.m. Friday, April 30 and from 7 – 9 a.m. the day of the craft fair, May 1. Also, crafters agree to donate one item valued at $5 or more to Marklund for a raffle to be held during the Spring Craft Fair.

Space is limited; crafters and vendors are encouraged to reserve their spots without delay. For more information, call Peggy Szarzynski at 630-593-5475 or pszarzynski@marklund.org or download the application form.

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations. Marklund is not-for-profit.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org

Marklund therapist releases first album and donates proceeds to Marklund

Music and Marklund. To Wes Kochan, they go together. A new album from Hurricane Warning Records, Inc. by the band First Star Destiny, was released in Nov., 2009, and its popularity is growing. The brains and talent behind both the record company and the album are Kochan’s. He serves as songwriter, solo artist and producer of the 16-song CD (also available in digital (mp3) format) album titled, “Something for Everyone.”

Kochan describes the music of First Star Destiny as Christian Rock and positive mainstream music with some diversity in approach ranging from rock to classical-flamenco with some electronica-dance influence and a bit of reggae. That’s quite a combination of sounds, but according to a growing fan-base, it works.

Kochan has always been musically inclined, but four years ago, while working as a recreational therapist with the very special residents of Marklund, he began writing songs. Marklund is a not-for-profit network of services that helps infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities reach their highest potential and live as full a life as possible.

“As I wrote the songs, I felt the influence of God leading me in the direction of what turned out to be a unique sound,” Kochan said. “The work is in the genre of Christian Rock, as well as songs that could fit into the secular realm of radio, and all with a positive spirit.”

Equally important to Kochan is his valued relationship with Marklund, where “Miracles are always within reach.” He has enjoyed working as a therapist with the special residents of Marklund since 1997, and a true joy for him is to perform his music for his incredible friends at Marklund, where he still works today. Kochan finds it tremendously gratifying to hear the residents – those who are able – sing along with him. Because of his devotion to Marklund, he is donating a percentage of the proceeds of the album to Marklund.

Also known as “wEs LeE ‘K’”, Kochan handled songwriting, lead and harmony vocals, lead guitar, keyboards-synthesizer, bass, and harmonica. In addition, there are other musicians on the album including session musicians on violin and backup vocals. Now performing in concert, both electronically and acoustically, whether with his solid backup group of musicians or in “one-man-band” style, he loves to perform his music.

When Kochan was a teenager, he started playing a Hawaiian lap steel guitar, however, he didn’t play it with a metal slide as it is meant to be played – he played with his fingers.

“Can you say finger callouses!?” he said. “Eventually I got my first $15 acoustic guitar that was actually meant to be fretted with fingers, and the rest is history. My listeners deserve a fun time of music and they don’t have to cover the kids’ ears for the lyrics! Really, it’s an album with meaning and many catchy grooves and hooks and lyrics for thinkers, seekers, believers and those who have a sense of emotion and a sense of what love is or should be. It has catchy beats and rhythms with something more than your average, everyday, just-make-sure-it-rhymes lyrics. Those who have heard this new release note the lyrical content and appreciate it right along with the sonic quality and catchiness therein.

“In summary, while there are other musicians on the album, it is primarily a solo artist album with a band name,” he said. “Whether playing in concert as a ‘one-man-band’ or with backup musicians, acoustically or electronically, my motto is to ‘bring the music to the people.’ And I love to do just that.”

Links for the First Star Destiny debut album, “Something For Everyone”, to iTunes, CD Baby, and Digstation are posted on www.Myspace.com/firststardestiny or www.Shoutlife.com/starwayrockband

For more information, call Wes Kochan at 630-310-1293 or email him at: wkochan@sbcglobal.net

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations. Marklund is not-for-profit.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org

The Top Hat Ball raised $425,000 for Marklund

It was quite a colorful sight to see many of Marklund’s guests dressed in “Chinese couture.” More than 500 attendees raised $425,000 for the not-for-profit organization at the Marklund 14^th Annual Top Hat Ball – “Celebrate Chinese New Year,” on Saturday, Feb. 13^th at Navy Pier’s historic Grand Ballroom, Chicago.

Such proceeds will go a long way to benefit Marklund and its compassionate care of infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities.

Chaired by Mike and Carol Donahue of Geneva, the Top Hat Ball included authentic Chinese dancers from the Chinese American Service League in Chinatown, musicians from the Chinese Fine Arts Society, and traditional Lion and Dragon dances from Chicago Dragon’s Athletic Association. There was fine dining with some traditions of the Chinese culture and dancing to the Al Sofia Orchestra.

The Top Hat Ball is well known for its lavish live auction items. This year’s auction, chaired by Stacey Alexander of Plainfield and Sue Wick of Lombard, surpassed all others, raising $120,000. The 12-day Asian Seabourn cruise went for $17,000. Other live auction items and their final bids were: tickets to the Grammy Awards – two packages sold at $8,000 each; golfing Ireland’s best courses – two packages sold at $7,000 each; two tickets at the PGA Masters finals – $13,000; winter vacation for four at Steamboat, Colo.- $12,500;  two tickets to the Oprah show – $5,000; Disney World for six over Fourth of July – $8,500 and many more.

In addition, Marklund’s Fund-in-Need auction raised well over $90,000.

A highlight of the annual Top Hat Ball was the presentation of Marklund’s prestigious “Friend of the Year” award. George and Pam Rion of Bloomingdale received one of Marklund’s highest honors for the couple’s 18 years of consistent support and willingness to serve Marklund’s infants, children and adults in ways that will affect their lives significantly, now and in the future.

“We are so pleased for the Rions,” said Jeannine Zupo, director of the Top Hat Ball. “The Rions started volunteering at Marklund by opening gifts as a family with their then small children on Christmas Eve at the Bloomingdale location, just down the street from their home. Their heart for the Marklund residents grew each year and has made a huge impact on many.”

Congratulations are in order to the Top Hat Ball committee: Michael J. Ahlert, Carol Angelescu, Lynn Armbruster, Diana Book, Mayor Kevin Burns, Carie Carney, Jeff Cook, Chris and Vicki Deane, Karen Golden, Rob and Carol Hassels, Jackie Janega, Brian and Lily Kay, Jason Laub, Robert Levy, Randy Lindenberg, Kate McCracken, Jill Schluntz

For more information, call Jeannine Zupo, Top Hat Ball director, at 630-624-9874 or email to: jzupo@marklund.org

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org

Marklund’s Giving Tree drive brings smiles!

Marklund’s Annual 2009 Giving Tree drive was a huge success. Many generous “Santas” made the holidays brighter for the developmentally disabled children and adults served by Marklund. The Giving Tree drive took place at Marklund Hyde Center, 1S450 Wyatt Dr., Geneva, and Marklund Philip Center for Children, 164 S. Prairie, Bloomingdale.

This year, many donors chose to purchase gift cards that provide Marklund residents with extra spending money to use on community outings.

“Marklund is thankful for the outpouring of support from this year’s donors,” said Vicki Krystof, director of development for Marklund. “This holiday at Marklund was full of excitement and a lot of love, thanks to our generous donors.”

For 24 years, the Giving Tree program has allowed Marklund residents to receive special holiday gifts from generous donors such as companies, clubs, churches, schools, and individuals.

How it works: Marklund residents submit wish lists with items ranging from winter coats to classical music CDs to gift cards (The residents go on an outing to spend their gift cards.) Giving Tree cards are created for each resident with a brief bio and three gift suggestions. Donors take a card and purchase one or more of the resident’s wish items and return them, festively wrapped, to Marklund.

On Christmas Eve day, more than 100 Marklund volunteers and staff members gathered to help residents open their gifts. It was indeed a very happy holiday.

For more information about the Giving Tree, contact Cathy Nikrandt at cnikrandt@marklund.org or 630-593-5468 or go to: http://www.marklund.org.

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations. Marklund is not-for-profit.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org/

Marklund’s Developmental Training Program presents ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer’

December 16, 2009

1:30 pm

1:30 pm

In celebration of the holidays, Marklund’s Developmental Training Program proudly presents the musical “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.” Curtain is at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16, in the multipurpose room at Marklund Hyde Center, 1S450 Wyatt Dr., Geneva.

The play is modified creatively for Marklund’s clients to provide maximum participation by the use of adaptive devices such as switches and augmentive communication tools that provide extraordinary tactile and audible feedback to people living with developmental disabilities. Also, participation is enhanced by singing and playing musical instruments. Performing provides Marklund clients a sense of normalcy and a feeling of pride and accomplishment. They enjoy feeling part of something fun and meaningful and gain valuable experience by using their talking devices, their voices and standing devices.

“I love celebrating the holidays with the clients and helping them to have a full and active holiday season,” said Rose Vicker, physical therapist assistant “The smiles on their faces and the pride and satisfaction they feel is so rewarding and puts a big smile on my face and even gets me teary-eyed at times.”

The cast includes:
Rudolph – Tom C.
Santa Claus – Mitchell S
Mrs. Claus – Regina T.
Yukon Cornelius – Mike K.
Abominable Snow Monster – Julian P.
Sam the Snowman- Narrator – Jack H.
King Moonraiser-Lion – Nick C.
Hermie the Misfit Elf – Danny S.
Clarise-Rudolph’s girlfriend – Michele W.
Comet reindeer trainer – Jim K.
Donner-Rudolpoh’s dad – Ashish
Reindeer-Rudolph’s mom – Heather M.
Reindeer – Adam G.
Reindeer – Jackie W.
Reindeer – Bill W.
Reindeer – Allie P.
Elf teacher – Rosie B.
Elf – Michele B.
Elf – Dawn M.
Misfit doll – Ruthann B.
Misfit Cowboy – Nick P.
Charlie in the box – Brian R.
Choir – Sharon V. Helena H. and others

“This show is a great opportunity for our friends and neighbors to see what great actors our clients are,” said Vicki Krystof, communications manager at Marklund. “The audience can experience how Marklund believes in our clients’ artistic capabilities and how we work to see them succeed in all areas – including a holiday production. This is one play that will bring the holiday spirit and infinite smiles to the audience as well as to our clients.”

The performance is free and open to the public. Children are warmly welcome. Refreshments will be served following the performance. For more information, call Krystof at 630-593-5482.

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org.

Aurora students bring arts, crafts and holiday cheer to residents of Marklund

Aurora’s Annunciation School has been sending 8^th-graders to Marklund at holiday time for many, many years. This year, 30 8^th-graders will brighten the holidays for the residents of Marklund by having an arts and crafts session from 1 – 2:15 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10, in the multipurpose room at Marklund Hyde Center, 1S450 Wyatt Dr., Geneva.

The craft session is modified creatively for Marklund’s clients to provide maximum participation. Marklund is a network of programs and services that benefit the lives of infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities

“We so enjoy coming to Marklund each year,” said Karen Wollwert, principal of Annunciation School. “Our students learn that volunteering builds connections. Many of them, including family members, continue to volunteer at Marklund throughout high school.”

“This visit brings the holiday spirit and infinite smiles to our clients as well as the students,” said Vicki Krystof, communications manager at Marklund.

For more information, call Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org.

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org/

Marklund’s 2009 Holiday Craft Fair features 35 artisans and vendors

November 21, 2009
9:00 am	to	4:00 pm

Marklund’s 2009 Holiday Craft Fair will be a full house of 35 vendors. It takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, 2009, at the Marklund Hyde Center, 1 South 450 Wyatt Dr. Geneva. In addition to the vendors, there will be a very special Marklund booth featuring items handcrafted by Marklund’s developmental training clients.

Proceeds from the 2009 Holiday Craft Fair benefit Marklund, a network of programs and services that benefit the lives of infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities.

“The community response to our ‘call for crafters’ has been incredible,” said Vicki Krystof, communications manager at Marklund. “This is one craft fair to mark on your calendars. It’s really amazing.”

The items run the gamut and include: baby gifts, jewelry, fused glass, handcrafted soap, flower pots and handmade flowers, custom wood and acrylic pens, purses, Christmas tree ornaments and lots more. Also, all vendors have donated one item valued at $10 or more to Marklund for a raffle to be held during the Holiday Craft Fair. The Holiday Craft Fair also will include cosmetics and food vendors such as Longaberger baskets, Mary Kay, Tastefully Simple, Premiere Jewelry, and Pampered Chef.

Admission is $1 for adults age 18 and over and includes a free raffle ticket. For more information, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482.

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org/.

Marklund Autumn Motorcycle Run

October 24, 2009

10:30 am

If you are a motorcycle enthusiast, age 18 or older, you are invited on a scenic, colorful ride to raise money for Marklund, a not-for-profit committed to enriching the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual.

The Marklund Motorcycle Run will take place at Saturday, Oct. 24. Registration opens at 9:30 a.m., and the run begins at 10:30 a.m. Motorcyclists and passengers will gather at Marklund’s Hyde Center, 1S450 Wyatt Dr., Geneva.

The picturesque course, beginning at Marklund, has stops at:

• Old Starks Tavern, 43W478 IL Rt. 72, Hampshire,
• Hink’s Bar, 123 S. California St., Sycamore,
• Brown Pub, 200 Somonauk Rd., Hinckley, and
• Suzy’s, 4353 Tuma Rd., Yorkville. Free pizza will be served.

“The fall colors will be at their peak,” said Stevie Armbruster, Marklund’s development coordinator. “Anyone who has a motorcycle can have a wonderful ride and, at the same time, raise needed funds for Marklund.”

The event is a traditional poker run. One playing card per bike will be distributed at each stop, and the rider with the best hand at the end of the run will win a prize.

Drivers age 18 and over are welcome to sign up. The registration fee is $15 per rider and $10 per passenger. For more information please contact Stevie Armbruster at 630-593-5473 or at sarmbruster@marklund.org.

Lifespan Respite Care Program to be implemented

Recognizing the daily sacrifices and challenges faced by family caregivers across the nation who work tirelessly to keep their loved ones at home, Kathy Greenlee, assistant secretary for aging, Department of Health and Human Services, announced on Thursday, Sept. 24, 12 awards totaling nearly $2.3 million to implement the Lifespan Respite Care Program. The announcement was made by Assistant Secretary Greenlee during the opening session of the 2009 National Respite Conference being held Sept. 24-25, 2009 in Burbank, Calif.

One of the 12 recipients is the Illinois Department on Aging in conjunction with the Illinois Respite Coalition (IRC). Geneva-based Marklund is the fiscal agent for the IRC.

The grantees will develop and enhance coordinated, accessible, community-based respite care programs for caregivers across the lifespan.

The primary purpose of respite care is to give families and caregivers relief from the extraordinary and intensive demands of providing ongoing care. Respite strengthens the ability of families and caregivers to continue to provide care in the home. Occasional relief helps family stability and well-being.

“This is a huge opportunity for Illinois to collaborate with state and private agencies on such a passionate mission serving one goal, which is relief for caregivers. Together, we will focus on stabilizing families in Illinois,” states Lois Sheaffer-Kramer, CTRS, NHA, director of children’s services at Marklund and president of the Illinois Respite Coalition. “We cannot thank Senator Dick Durbin enough for being a national champion for Lifespan Respite Care. Sen. Durbin, along with the Illinois Department on Aging, was instrumental in coordinating services to make this dream a reality. Thanks to their efforts, the entire state of Illinois wins.”

Funding was made possible through the enactment of the Lifespan Respite Care Act of 2006 which defines respite care as “planned or emergency care provided to a child or adult with a special need in order to provide temporary relief to the family caregiver of that child or adult.”

The Lifespan Respite Care Program is intended to accomplish several objectives, including expanding and enhancing respite services in the states, improving coordination and dissemination of service delivery, improving access and filling gaps in service delivery, and improving overall quality of respite services currently available.

For more information about the Illinois Lifespan Respite Care Program, please contact Julie Pandya, Illinois Statewide Respite Care Coordinator, at juliepandya@marklund.org.

About the Illinois Respite Coalition

The Illinois Respite Coalition is a network of caregivers and providers collaborating to develop and implement community-based lifespan respite care networks, helping families and caregivers locate respite care services in their own communities.

Respite care is temporary, short-term care for individuals with special needs, such as developmental and physical disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, chronic illnesses, Alzheimer’s disease and related health concerns, medical fragility, and those at risk of abuse and neglect.

For more information about the Illinois Respite Coalition, call Julie Pandya at 630-529-2871 ext. 3242.

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations.

Marklund’s community-based programs are designed to assist families in meeting the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. Programs include early intervention for infants and toddlers age 0-3, school education for children age 3-22, developmental training for adults over age 22, and lifespan respite care.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482.

Marklund’s ‘Battle of the Bands’ winners announced

More than 350 people braved a chilly day to attend Marklund’s Music Fest which took place Sunday, Aug. 29, at Marklund’s Mill Creek Campus, 1 South 450 Wyatt Drive, Geneva. The weather didn’t dampen enthusiasm, however, and everyone cheered for the bands competing in Battle of the Bands.

Marklund is a not-for-profit network of services providing a full-life experience for infants, children and adults with severe developmental disabilities.

The winner of the Under age 18 category is  Stonegate Drive from Yorkville. In the Age 18 and Over category, the winner is Memphis 4 Now from Batavia. The bands won separate 15-hour recording sessions at a professional studio – Waysound Recording of Fox River Grove. 

“There is no doubt that we were in the presence of some great music potential at the battle of the bands,” said Justin Le Breck, CEO of Waysound Recording. “This potential came in varying degrees from each performer in the form of originality, skill, and stage presence. Essentially the ones who emanate the best of these qualities are the ones that go the furthest in the music industry. We feel that recording at our studio is a fantastic way to harness and utilize that potential for so many possibilities.”

Marklund thanks all six participating bands as well as Justin Le Breck. Thanks also to Hix Brothers Music of Aurora and Batavia who generously provided gifts to the 2^nd and 3^rd place bands.

“We enjoy helping people who pursue music and work as hard as we do,” Le Breack said. “We are very happy to provide Marklund with these attractive grand prizes to both of their winning bands,” said Le Breck, “and we hope to continue supporting passionate musicians and events such as this in the future.”

For more information, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or go to: http://www.marklund.org/

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