Local Legends
Local Legends Spotlight: Businesses That Make a Difference
A Legacy of Trust: Climate Control Systems
A Legacy of Trust: Climate Control Systems
In 1971, Dave McLaren set out to build more than just an HVAC company. He built a reputation. Known throughout Park Forest as a contractor who was honest, dependable, and hands-on, Dave handled service calls while his wife, Willa, managed the office. As word of their integrity spread, so did their reach. And as the business grew, their son Gary grew with it.
May 20, 2025
3 min
For Future Owners
Katrina Hobley | East & West Coast Cleaning
Katrina Hobley | East & West Coast Cleaning
For Katrina Hobley, cleaning is more than a task. It is a way to bring order, safety, and peace of mind into people’s lives. She founded East & West Coast Cleaning after recognizing the need for dependable, detail-focused service in high-traffic spaces like medical offices and short-term rentals. Her commitment to doing meaningful work and building something of her own has become the foundation for a business that reflects her values, her work ethic, and her heart for helping others.
May 20, 2025
3 min
Local Ownership
Setting the Standard: How LDL CLEAN Is Raising the Bar in Professional Cleaning
Setting the Standard: How LDL CLEAN Is Raising the Bar in Professional Cleaning
Denilson Lopez didn’t start LDL CLEAN just to clean buildings. He started it to raise the standard. With years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of what most cleaning services were missing, he saw a better way forward. That vision turned into a business focused on professionalism, trust, and next-level quality. From floor care to OSHA compliance, Denilson built LDL CLEAN on the idea that details matter and relationships matter more.
May 20, 2025
3 min
Small Business Ownership
Mahan Design & Remodel: From Maintenance to Masterpiece
Mahan Design & Remodel: From Maintenance to Masterpiece
Jay Mahan’s journey into entrepreneurship began with building maintenance at a mental health facility. Over time, his path shifted toward something he found much more fulfilling—home remodeling. “I love creating spaces that bring comfort and reflect each client’s vision,” Jay says. That passion continues to shape the mission behind Mahan Design & Remodel.
May 20, 2025
3 min
Small Business Ownership
Fresh Start, Focused Mission
Fresh Start, Focused Mission
Kim Forrester always had a natural eye for order and efficiency. With a background in creating streamlined systems, she turned her talent into a service designed to ease one of life’s most stressful experiences. Fresh Start Organizing helps people, especially seniors, downsize and move with a plan that is both personal and practical. Each project is built on proven processes that reduce stress, save money, and prioritize the client’s comfort from beginning to end.
May 7, 2025
3 min
Community Wealth
Window Works: Building a Legacy One Pane at a Time
Window Works: Building a Legacy One Pane at a Time
Vince and Isabella Albanese started Window Works in the spring of 2014, just a few months after getting married. What began as a conversation between newlyweds quickly became a shared vision. Vince had years of experience in window cleaning, and Isabella was all in. Together, they saw an opportunity to build something meaningful for their future and for their family.
May 7, 2025
3 min
Family-Owned Business
Apply for certification today!
Get certified and show your customers what it means to be proudly local. Take the pledge to keep your business locally owned now and in the future.