Garrett Anderson and his two daughters. Photo provided

Sgt. Garrett Anderson, now retired, in 2005 was on patrol in Iraq with four other soldiers/interpreters when an IED was detonated underneath the humvee he was driving. The explosion resulted in the amputation of one of his arms as well as significant damage to his jaw and a traumatic brain injury. Despite the extent of his injuries, the Veteran’s Administration did not give award him the full amount of benefits as warranted, but he successfully appealed. He and his wife Sami, a local attorney, speak to lawyers across the state encouraging them to assist veterans in their claims for VA benefits. The pair has two daughters, 5-year-old Skyler and 2-year-old Alex, and they live in Champaign.

See why we think Garrett Anderson is a Chambana dad to know.

Q: This week we celebrate Veteran’s Day. What does Veteran’s Day mean to you?

I am reminded of the soldiers who served before me and who set the standard for selfless service to our country. Military service is certainly not a lucrative way to make a living. We all join for many different reasons but I believe that one reason common among all soldiers is love for our country. In the United States, we have a long history of people who have served in the military not because it is an easy or fun job, but because they believed, and still believe, that we are living in the greatest country on earth. Veteran’s Day is that day when I am reminded that my way of living today was protected and preserved because of the efforts of every single soldier that has served this country.

Q: Do you have any suggestions for how or what we should teach our children about Veteran’s Day?

We need to make sure that our children know that there are men and women who have sacrificed and continue to sacrifice to ensure that we will continue to have the opportunities and freedoms that so many other people in the world will never experience. That there are soldiers who serve today who find our children so important that they want to protect them and make sure that they continue to live in a country where there are no limits on their dreams and what they can become.

Q: You recently spoke at a fundraising event for Wounded Warriors. What message did you deliver to that audience?

My message continues to be that an injury is not life ending. Sure, my life has take a difference course but that has not been a bad thing. What happened has lead to so many opportunities that I probably would not have had if I had not been injured in Iraq. The right attitude and a strong support system really does make all the difference in whether a successful recovery and outcome will be achieved. That is exactly what the Wounded Warrior Project is all about, being that support system for so many wounded soldiers and helping them see that an injury is just an obstacle to overcome and not something to be beaten by.

Q. How is your health these days? How does that affect you as a parent?

My injuries are permanent, basically I work around them each day. As far as affecting me as a parent, I have not experienced anything negative. Sure, I have to adjust and learn things a little differently like changing a diaper with a hook, but there is nothing that I cannot do. I have been given the opportunity to be there for my daughters everyday, experience everything with them and I wouldn’t change that.

Q: What do your children know about your military service? Do you talk about it with them?

My daughters are 2 and 5, so I try to be age appropriate. Of course, my 5-year-old can look at pictures before my injuries and see that I had two arms, so an explanation became necessary. She knows that I was hurt in a war and for now that has pretty much satisfied her. I am sure that more detailed conversations will come as they get older and I am okay with that.

Q: What is your biggest parenting challenge right now?

I have two daughters and one is 2, enough said. Seriously though, I think I share the same challenges that every parent does. I try every day to make sure that my girls have a happy childhood. We all have the same worries, am I raising children who are going to be happy, successful adults. I take each day as it comes and do the best job that I can. Being a parent is probably the most challenging thing I have ever done. It’s definitely not an easy job but I think the best experiences in life are not always the easy ones.

Garrett Anderson was nominated to be a Chambana Dad to Know – send us nominations for your favorite local moms and dads!

Related posts:

1. Chambana Mom And Dad To Know: Jessie and Jarrod Scheunemann

Nate Mast is royalty when it comes to basketball in Champaign-Urbana: a former Champaign high school basketball standout; an Illinois men’s basketball alumnus; and the current coach of the Parkland College men’s basketball team. Last year Mast guided the Cobras to their first trip to the DII NJCAA National Tournament in 17 years. Mast, who was inducted into the Champaign Central Hall of Fame in 2008, is married to wife Ashley, also a Champaign native. The couple has two kids, 3-year-old Nolan and 1-year-old Kendall.

See why we think Nate Mast is a Chambana dad to know. 

Nate Mast is the head coach of the Parkland College men's basketball program. Photo provided

Q: What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?

The great thing about coaching is that each year we are faced with the challenge of bringing a group of young men together to work for a common goal of winning a championship. What makes it exciting is that each year the challenge is different based on the group of guys you have. You truly don’t experience a successful team until the moment everyone on that team has bought into their role and puts the team ahead of everything else. This is my third year as a head coach and I feel that this group of young men is mature, skilled, talented, tough, and basketball smart. Those are key ingredients for a good team. I’m looking forward to the journey of coming together as a team and seeing what great things we can achieve together. It’s not just the wins or losses that determine our success. It’s the work we put in both on the court and in the classroom, and the memories we make along the way that will determine how successful this year was for our team.

Q: Why should we come out to see your team and Parkland sports in general?

I think the great thing about Parkland Athletics is that it’s such a close-knit family out here. I will see players from all eight teams daily in our office. Everyone knows each other out here and not just in the athletic department, but all over the college. Because everyone is so close, it’s a great environment to watch these student-athletes compete since they are like family. Another reason to come and support the Parkland teams is the track record for success. Volleyball has won conference 15 straight years and is a consistent contender for a national championship. Baseball has won the World Series twice since 2002. Women’s basketball just finished third in the nation and has been to the National Tournament three years in a row. And, hoping to add to that tradition of success, men’s basketball won a Region Championship last year and went back to the National Tournament for the first time in 17 years. Good things are happening out here and there is plenty of excitement and entertainment ahead of us.

Q: How do you juggle being a dad to your kids and a coach to your players, and do those roles sometime overlap?

This is an excellent question. I think the key, as is for most jobs, is not to bring your job home with you. Coaching really isn’t a 9-5 job, but sometimes you have to take a break from it. There is recruiting, scouting, phone calls, practice planning, etc. that goes on night after night, but I do my best to put that off when I’m with my family so it doesn’t distract my attention from them. As for the players, I think the biggest challenge to a coach is to be able to show you care for them and hold them accountable all at the same time. If your players don’t think you care about them or they think you care more about yourself than your team, there is zero chance to have a team built on trust and unselfishness. We spend a lot of time on personal development. Sometimes I think that’s even more important than player improvement. If they get better as people and teammates, then ultimately we will be better as a team. On a side note, yes, sometimes the roles do overlap. I try to teach some of the same lessons to my 3-year-old that I do to my players, and sometimes I’m sure I treat my players like they are my kids, even though they may not like it.

Q: What is your biggest parenting challenge right now?

I would probably say my biggest parenting challenge is just wanting to be around my kids more hours each day. It really fluctuates with the basketball season and the off-season. I am thankful and fortunate my wife is able to stay home with our kids so I feel relaxed that they are well taken care of, but sometimes I just want to take the day and go do something fun with them. I think more trips and vacationing is the answer and we try to make up for that when the season is over.

Q: You get a rare night out with your wife. What do you two like to do on date night in C-U?

Wow, that list could be pretty long depending on what mood we’re in. Sometimes it’s nice just to go to the bookstore and have a coffee and a conversation or even read. If we really need to let loose, there are plenty of establishments downtown we like to go to and hangout with friends. Not that we do these all the time, but I’m all for dates that include miniature golf, roller skating, and ice skating to name a few. If I had to guess a typical date, it would include a nice, long dinner and then maybe some casual shopping or even just a walk to enjoy time together without the little ones.

Do you know of a Chambana mom or dad to know? We love nominations!

Related posts:

1. Chambana Mom And Dad To Know: Jessie and Jarrod Scheunemann

by Amy L. Hatch

Jarrod and Jessie with their daughter, Cadence. Photo provided.

In 2001, Jarrod and Jessie Scheunemann began a tradition of visiting at least one National Park a year, and out of this tradition grew their first children’s book, “Adventures with Ranger Roy: Acadia National Park.

The Scheunemanns have together visited more 46 parks within the United States and a handful in Canada. With their book — which they plan to be the first in a series — they hope to inspire families to enjoy, appreciate and be motivated to protect and preserve what they call “these sacred places.” The couple lives in Champaign with their daughter, Cadence, and are the co-owners of Jessie Marie Studio.

Find out why we think Jarrod and Jessie Scheunemann are a Chambana Mom And Dad To Know!

Chambanamoms: First of all, congratulations on publishing your book, “Adventures with Ranger Roy: Acadia National Park. How did you come up with the concept?

Jessie: Jarrod and I have a habit of conjuring up plans or projects when we are traveling. I was in the middle of my pregnancy and we went out to Colorado for our babymoon. While visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park, we started talking about making children’s books about the National Parks.

Kids books suddenly stuck out to us now that we were going to be parents. We visit at least one national park per year, and. overzealous person I am, I figured we could easily make one each year about the park we had gone to. In July of 2009, when Cadence was 6 months old, we traveled out to Acadia National Park for that year’s trip. I got the idea of doing papercut illustrations from different scenes in the Baby Einstein videos that Cadence was getting excited about. When we arrived home I began researching papercut illustrating.

Jarrod: After traveling to some of the national parks, I began to dream about living in one. The easiest way to do this would be to become a Park Ranger. Even though we live far away from most national parks, writing this book and blogging on our new social media sites has made me feel like a park ranger in a small way. My dad’s name is Roy and we thought his name went well with the Ranger title. We even decided to use his likeness to model our character after. It has been fun to read with our daughter and most of the stories rhyme, so I decided to follow that pattern as well.

Chambanamoms: Why is it so crucial for kids to be educated about the natural beauty of the United States?

Jarrod: Our society today is so hyper-connected and our children are no exception. There is a great need for us to have breaks and disconnect. These beautiful places in our communities and nation provide an opportunity to contemplate life and spirituality, relax, restore and center ourselves. If our children are not educated about these beautiful places and our parks go into disrepair, then I’d hate to see how our children’s quality of life will diminish when they are older.

Jessie: I find it extremely important to get your children outside. They need to experience sun, rain, rocks, sand, water and clouds. I have personally found my time in the national parks very educational. You can learn about the local wildlife, terrain, plants & more. I never walk away from a National Park without new knowledge and I want to give that opportunity to Cadence, as well.

Chambanamoms: You’ve visited 46 national parks — we didn’t even know there were that many! Tell us how this tradition got started in your family, and tell us about the first park you visited together.

Jarrod: The National Park Service calls the places they have jurisdiction over by the fancy title of “unit.” There are actually 395 units in the National Park Service.  The Martin Luther King Jr.  Memorial just opened this summer in Washington D.C. as the newest addition. My family made the token trip out west when I was young to see Mt. Rushmore and the Badlands. When I started dating Jessie, I got bit by the travel bug because her family visited the National Parks so often. In 2001, we visited Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. The rest is history.

Chambanamoms: We know you have a daughter, Cadence. Have you been traveling with her since she was very young? Do you have any tips for families who might want to make a trip to one of our national parks? We all know road trips with little ones have their own challenges.

Jarrod: We have been living in Champaign for about five years now. Most of our family lives over four hours away, so Cadence has been traveling since she was 3 months old. As you alluded to, it hasn’t always been easy. We felt that having a parent ride in backseat was always helpful. We have a master packing list of all the things we need to take with us. We also have a travel bin that is loaded with toys, books and coloring supplies. We have tried to not encourage videos for the car rides but sometimes you just can’t avoid it. We always try to plan driving around nap schedules. One of our latest fun tricks is to stop at hotels to use their first floor bathrooms when available. They are a much cleaner and a larger alternative to rest area and gas station bathrooms.

Chambanamoms: Do you camp when you visit the parks? Why or why not?

Jessie: Jarrod and I love camping. It is less expensive, trailheads are close by, campfires are included to make great food — and you are guaranteed fresh nighttime air for sleeping. Cadence, on the other hand, hates it. I shouldn’t say hates it, she just hasn’t figured out how to stay in her sleeping bag — so 30-degree nighttime temps keep not only her but mommy and daddy awake as well. And overtired parents don’t enjoy their vacation as much as well rested ones. We are hoping as she grows older she will join us in our love for camping. We’d love to hear any camping with kids tips your readers have to share!

Chambanamoms: We know you self-published. That has a deceptively simple sound to it, but we know it isn’t easy. Can you what the process was like?

Jessie: I actually wrote a blog post about this very topic once our book was published. You can read it here. The process was much more back and forth than I expected. Much of this has to do with me being a perfectionist. We went through lulu.com to do the initial publishing. Lulu prints each book on demand — which means when you order one from them, they print and send it to you. One cool part about having our book on their site is you can read the whole book online by hitting preview under the photo of the cover.

After displaying our book during the Boneyard Art Festival this past April I started doing research to get it printed locally. Because we purchased our own ISBN number instead of using one from lulu.com we can take and print our book ourselves.

Premier Print Group here in Champaign printed 100 copies for us at low price; therefore, we will be passing that savings onto our customers. The new books are $9.99 and they are printed on environmentally friendly paper. We are excited to match the message of the book with the materials it is made of.

Chambanamoms: Jarrod, you wrote the text for this book and Jessie is the illustrator. What was it like for the two of you to work together? Did you ever had differences of opinion, and how did you work them out?

Jarrod: Working with Jessie is pretty easy since she is so talented. She made my words come to life. The only real difference we had was whether or not to call each set of pages a “spread” or a “layout.” I still call it by the incorrect design term to get her riled up!

Jessie: Ah, thanks, Jarrod. It does help that we are both really good at critiquing each other’s work and not taking it personally. I thought I was done with the last spread of the book that shows a map of Acadia National Park. Jarrod looked at it and gave me a look. I knew he didn’t like it. We talked about what was and was not working, and then I went back to the cutting board. Now, it is the illustration I hear the most compliments on.

Chambanamoms: What’s the next book in your series?

Jarrod: I think it is going to be titled “Adventures with Ranger Roy: Yellowstone National Park Waterfalls.” Yellowstone is so big that we will do a series on its different features. Most people know about Old Faithful but not many know that are at least 300 waterfalls in the park!

To find out more about the Scheunemann’s next book, the national parks or what they are up to, visit their Facebook page or blog.

The Scheunemanns have a special offer for chambanamoms.com readers. If you like their Facebook page, post on their wall that you heard about it from chambanamoms.com. You’ll be entered to win a copy of their book!

Related posts:

1. Chambana Mom to Know: Elizabeth Buckley
2. Chambana Mom to Know: Trish Gulley

State Representative Jason Barickman was appointed to his 105th Legislative District statehouse seat in January, but he may not be there for long. The 36-year-old Republican has announced his candidacy for the 2012 race of  the newly redrawn 53rd State Senate district (which does not include Champaign County). A 2005 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Law, he is a founding partner of the law office of Bartell, Barickman & Powell, LLP, which concentrates on Business and Real Estate law. Barickman has served as Chairman of the Champaign County Republican Party since 2006. Before that, he chaired Champaign County County’s Young Republicans. Jason and wife Kristin, who is also an attorney, live in Champaign. They were married in 2010 and welcomed their first child, August Michael Barickman, in May.

jason, Kristin and August Barickman. Photo provided

See why we think Jason is a Chambana Dad to Know.  

Q: How did you spend Father’s Day?

My Mom’s birthday was Friday, and Father’s Day was Sunday.  As a result, we spent Saturday at our family farm in Livingston County with my family.  On Sunday, we went to church, then to one of our favorite breakfast spots – Original House of Pancakes. Later, we grilled brats for dinner, and I made a phone call to my Dad.

Q: Welcome to fatherhood — what has surprised you about being a dad so far?

I always heard what an amazing experience children would be.  However, there’s actually no way to adequately describe the strong bond between a father and his child.  I pull the 2 a.m. shift (when Augie wakes at night for a feeding), and he and I often have some of our best bonding moments in the quiet hours of the night together.

Q: What did you learn from your dad that you hope to pass down to your son?

My dad taught me the value of hard work and leading a life with integrity.  He also taught me how to be a good husband, which I believe is critical to being a good dad.

Q: Despite being around campaigns and politics for years, this is your first time in public office. How have you adjusted to your new role, and what do you think you have accomplished so far?

I’ve been frustrated by the dismal financial status of our state government and strongly believe that we need effective leaders in Springfield.  I truly believe the public wants each party to reach across the aisle to work towards common sense solutions to the problems facing our state.  One of our biggest accomplishments this year was working in a bipartisan manner to pass a budget that limits state spending to the amount of revenue the state realistically expects to bring in.

Q: You’ve had quite a whirlwind since 2011 began – new job, new baby,  already planning another campaign. What is your favorite stress management technique?

My wife, Kristin, is my best friend.  Most of my stress is relieved by having someone to talk with.  She is extremely supportive and acts as my in-house counselor!  Also, I like to run almost every day and clear my brain.

Q:  What activities are you most looking forward to doing with your son?

I love to fish and have great memories of fishing with my dad.  I can’t wait to pass that tradition down to Augie.

Have a mom or dad you want to nominate? Let us know!

Related posts:

1. Chambana Dad to Know: Garrett Anderson
2. Chambana Dad to Know: Nate Mast

The Parastaran family. Photo provided

Parham Parastaran’s family fled to the United States after the Iranian Revolution in 1979, and eventually settled in Champaign. A Champaign Central and University of Illinois alumnus (undergrad and MBA), Parham joined his father as owners of a local Car-X. Since then, Parham has built the business to include nine area locations. The company is giving back to the community this summer through the Car-X Crazy K, an event on Aug. 27 that puts a twist on the traditional 5K run in an effort to raise a lot of money for several Champaign County charities. Parham and his wife, Jennifer, have three beautiful daughters, 6-year-old Ella; 4-year-old Alexa; and 7-month-old Leila. The family lives in Champaign.

Q: Your family has a unique story. Tell us how you came to the U.S and grew up in Champaign.
I first came to the U.S. when I was about 1. My Dad was getting his engineering degree at the University of Oklahoma. I was here until about the age of 5. Then we went to Iran where my dad started his career. In 1979, Iran’s king was overthrown and the Islamic rule began. Being a non-Muslim, and my dad’s Western-educated, made us a target under the new regime.  My dad had to flee to London immediately. My mom, brother and I left four days later, but we weren’t as fortunate to leave on a plane like my Dad. The airport was bombed and shutdown the day before we were to fly out to London. So, my Dad enlisted the help of many random people and smuggled us out. We used every form of transportation possible. The escape is a story in itself. I could fill half of a book with that story. So 11 homes later we ended up here in Champaign. It was the middle of my freshman year when we sold our business Yankee Doodle Dandy, a small burger place in Libertyville that our entire family worked at. My dad then started the Car-X on University Avenue. My senior year of college, three years after my dad started the business, it became necessary for me to get involved with the business. I had money saved up from being a local tennis pro and used that to help my dad and buy my way into the business. It was a struggle but we made it. I then decided to make this my life and began to grow the business. I now own nine stores mainly in  central Illinois. My dad stayed on as partner until about 2000.

Q: Your father built up the business that you now run. What are the challenges and benefits of a family business?
Truth is I built up the business which made it challenging in a different way. I felt pressure to keep my family involved in anything I did. And at times, that created some tension. But the benefits out-weighed that. I had someone that I could trust. My father did all of the bookkeeping until my wife took over in 2001. While I grew the business I had family behind me that I could trust with the details. That was huge!! I was a big picture guy and without my dad handling the details … I would have failed.

Q: What did you learn from your own father that you hope to pass down to your children?
My dad’s biggest lesson to me was “don’t ever fool yourself” and “always stay humble.”  Hands down, the two most important things that I will never forget that helped my life.

Q: We’re getting excited about the Car-X Crazy K, the race/event/fundraiser on Aug. 27. What is your goal for the event and how can people get involved?
The goal is simple. I want thousands of people to participate and see how fun it can be to create money for local charities.  I want to be able to say the “10th annual Crazy K” someday! People can get involved in many ways. 1) Spread the word. 2) Come and hang out and watch the event and the bands if they don’t want to run. It costs $20 for an all-day pass and that includes one meal. 3) Volunteer! On the website you can sign up to volunteer or call my office at 217-819-3021 for more info.

Q: Father’s Day is this weekend. What would be an ideal Father’s Day for you?
Golf in the morning with my buddies, afternoon with kids and my wife, and finally dinner at my home (that I cook).

Q: What does fatherhood mean to you?
Great question! It means many things. Mainly for me it means to learn day by day to redirect my focus from personal needs to my children’s needs. Easier said than done.

We’re honoring dads all month! Send your Chambana Mom/Dad to Know to editor@chambanamoms.com or leave a nomination.

Related posts:

1. Chambana Dad to Know: Garrett Anderson

Kerris Lee is a born entrepreneur, a musician and a proud dad. Born and raised in California, he moved to North Carolina for his high school years. While there, he and a friend founded a clothing company that attracted investment from NFL star Torry Holt, and marketed its line to clients in Japan, London and New York. The company was eventually sold, but Lee hasn’t lost the entrepreneur bug.  Today, Lee works for IT start-up Cazoodle, which has offices in the Research Park at the University of Illinois. He and his wife, Lucy,  have two boys; 3-year-old Avery and 1-year-old Oliver.

Kerris Lee. Photo provided

See why we think Kerris Lee is a Chambana dad to know.

You work for a start-up at the Research Park and you genuinely enjoy going to work everyday. What’s your secret?
I, for one, enjoy working for a start-up because I have the opportunity to be a part of the ground-level stage of the company. What keeps me happy is having the ability to make a positive impact to our company each day.

You were a young entrepreneur, starting your own clothing line at 14. Do you have any ideas for how we can teach our kids to be more entrepreneurial?
Yes, spending time with your kids on family chores can really facilitate certain skill sets that can help kids in the business world. Family projects, like mowing the lawn or painting the fence, can teach a kid about hard work and quality management. This is instrumental for kids as mowing neighbor’s yards can turn into a landscaping business for that kid down the road. For your kid to be more entrepreneurial, you have to let the kid know that his/her work matters in the world. Then, they will know what success looks like.

Is your kid the best-dressed kid in town?
Although my kid is very fashionable, I would have to say, he is the best dressed in our home!

You also play in a band. Tell us about your music and where can we see you play.
Our music is a blend of rock and roll, jazz and blues. My friends and I are spontaneous when we play music. Most time we end up making some cool sounds when we just planned on watching a basketball game on TV. Right now we are booking venues in people’s garage and social events such as barbecues. So, I guess you can say that we have a while before you can see us at the Sweetcorn Festival or on tour in London, but we love to play and play for people that like new and fun music wherever that might be. (So, let us know.)

Father’s Day is coming up. What would be an ideal Father’s Day for you?
My ideal Father’s Day would be to go out to the park with my family. I love seeing my boys laughing and playing with other kids. It is as if there is not a care in the world. That centers me from whatever obstacles or uncertainties that come about. It teaches me each time that sometimes you just have to laugh and have fun, and that is what is ideal for Father’s Day for me.

What does fatherhood mean to you?
Fatherhood, is the most challenging and the best honor I could have in my life. It means that I am there to console my kids when they are hurt, discipline them when they are wrong, and love them always. Fatherhood is a test of all your experiences and inexperiences on how to pass it on to your kids.

Send your Chambana Mom/Dad to Know to editor@chambanamoms.com or leave a nomination.

Related posts:

1. Chambana Mom And Dad To Know: Jessie and Jarrod Scheunemann
2. Chambana Dad to Know: Nate Mast

Tim Welsh is an active and influential parent advocate for Autism on the web. An avid blogger and tweeter (his Twitter handle is @TannersDad), Tim works to build unity within the Autism community, gain insurance coverage reform, advocate for services and much more. He is now a featured blogger on Jenny McCarthy’s Generation Rescue and the family is one of the 21 featured in the documentary film, “United States of Autism” which recently released a trailer.

Tim Welsh is a tireless advocate for families and children in the autism community. Photo provided

After two heart attacks at the age of 38 and losing two jobs in the recession, Tim moved back to the family farm and opened a family wedding-planning and floral business. Tim and his wife, Cheri, have one son, Tanner, who is on the non-verbal low-functioning side of the Autism spectrum. They live in Catlin, a small town southwest of Danville.

See why we think Tim Welsh is a Chambana dad to know.

Q: We know you as Tanner’s Dad, but we don’t know much about Tanner other than that he is autistic. Please tell us about your son.

TW: Tanner is an amazing young man now. To the world he is the picture of health, vitality, and Godly human spirit. Tanner loves the Beatles, jumping, reading (every waking moment), and eating. All pretty typical for a 13 year old. The big difference is he is non-verbal and is considered on the low functioning end of the Autism spectrum. That means the world revolves around him. He is able to produce sounds but has been silent now for almost a decade. He regressed at 4 1/2 with his last full sentence being “My name is Tanner. My Name is Tanner.” It was 9:00 a.m. on July 4th on a sunny day in Brooklyn Park, Minn. I was on the couch. It plays like a movie in my head everyday. Tanner is the light of my life, the apple of my eye, and will be the inspiration for my life’s work until I die.

Q: April is Autism Awareness Month. What does Autism Awareness Month mean to you?

TW: Autism Awareness Month Means to me that it is time for Action. It is a demonstration of unity within the community. I often use the example if a child is drowning in a swimming pool and you know it’s happening but do nothing, you then become negligent. The same is true of Autism. Groups have spent millions of dollars on resources to create awareness and have done a fantastic job. They have raised millions for research, which now has found that Autism is a multiple-gene, multiple-factor syndrome and manifests itself in a myriad of ways. Each individual expressing Autism as uniquely as a fingerprint. It is time to come together, join hands, and unify the service and support model. Parents, families, and caregivers should not have to fight for services. Services should not be non existent for some geographic areas, ethnic groups, or social status. It is an issue for the entire world and it is about time action took place.

Q: How has Tanner changed your life?

TW: Tanner has changed every facet of my life. My dreams, vision, future and much more. In some ways he probably saved my life. He made me slow down, take a deep breath, and reorganize my priorities. I had two heart attacks at 38. If Tanner had not come along and the stress levels to blow the gasket, I might have had the heart attacks at a time and place where there was not the medical expertise there was in Minneapolis. Also, Tanner has the spirit of an angel. Beautiful soft touches and hugs. Always a smile, laugh and enjoys simple beauty.

That being said… Because of Tanner’s difficulties we decided not to have other children. Cheri and I are sleep deprived. It is tough to have energy and patience for each other when our focus is always caring for Tanner. I would not trade Tanner for anything. I would not give up his personality or soul. I would give away Autism in a second.

Q: What should parents of “typical” children teach them about children who have autism?

TW: Those with Autism are like foreign exchange students. Some may not read write speak or understand our way of life. Some may have learn language but not customs. Some blend in perfectly. It is the spectrum of life. There is nothing to be afraid of. Autism, provides a beautiful platform to teach the diversity of our world.

Now I also want parents to teach their children that Autism is not the new normal. We did not know about Autism 20 years ago. Many still do not know about Autism today. If your child is a little older, I would ask you to ask them to find a family, learn about them, and advocate for them. Also advocate for our environment. The food, air, water are all impacting our health.

Q: Why do you use social media to get out the word about Autism?

TW: Life dealing with Autism is a lonely road. You will seldom see Cheri and I out together. Tanner currently does not blend in and is even not accepted in some social situations. Although times have changed. it is still tough to go to movies, restaurants, and church. Social media is a way of holding hands across the miles. I do not think there will be a day when families dealing with Autism can march on Washington D.C. to raise awareness and get help but we sure can raise our voices through Facebook, email, Twitter and other social media outlets. There is so much ignorance that a big part of my job as an advocate is to teach others how to help.

Q: What does fatherhood mean to you?

TW: Wow that is a whopper of a question. I think I could write a book. We all have this classic “Leave it to Beaver” and “Father Knows Best” image of what of what fatherhood is all about. Times and environment have changed many things. The economy driving us all to work. Gender equality being worked towards. We all have dreams and visions but that changed and the essence of Fatherhood has been distilled for me through the lens of Autism. I would lay my life down for Tanner. I will fight for my son. I will be there. I will find answers. We thoroughly enjoy each others company and I will not give up a minute to be with him. My priorities have been rewritten. I understand, Cheri and Tanner come first. We have just one life to live, this is not a dress rehearsal.

Do you know of a Chambana mom or dad to know? We love nominations!

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Steve Fiscus may be known to his students at Prairieview-Ogden Jr. High School as an assistant principal and teacher, but it wasn’t until recently that they found out he is passionate about something else: fighting diabetes. Fiscus is one of the leading contenders to win top prize at the American Diabetes Association Champaign County Kiss A Pig gala fundraiser on April 8. The candidate who raises the most money wins the honor of kissing a pig at the party. Fiscus, who is also assistant football coach for St. Joseph-Ogden High School, resides in St. Joseph with is wife of almost 7 years, Amy. They have two children, Makenna (5) and Kellen (1).

See why we think Steve Fiscus is a Chambana dad to know.

The Fiscus family. Photo provided

Q: Why did you become a Kiss a Pig candidate?
I volunteered for this unique opportunity in memory of my mom, Jill Fiscus, who passed away in 2003 from complications of diabetes. She was only 55 years old. Her untimely death meant that she never got to meet my wife, attend our wedding or play with our children. My dad was also recently diagnosed with diabetes. My wife’s grandparents, dad, and brother have all been diagnosed with diabetes. The prevalence of diabetes in our family is staggering, and it means there is a greater likelihood that Amy and I, or our children, will develop the disease. Diabetes has had a tremendous impact on my family, and I want to do my part to fight this disease.

Q: What should parents know about diabetes, both Type 1 and Type 2?
Most important is to know the signs and symptoms to look for in their child. If there is a history of diabetes in your family, it can also raise awareness.

Q: What has been your most effective fundraising tactic and why?
My most effective fundraising tactic has been to get my wife’s support and help.  She has been invaluable in making contacts, following up, and organizing our campaign.  I am fortunate to have her and to have friends and family who have been willing to help out.  Everyone I talk to has had diabetes effect their lives in some way, so it’s a cause many people are willing to donate to.  I was able to secure Toyota of Danville as the presenting sponsor of the Kiss A Pig Gala, and Versabar, Inc. as a gold sponsor.  Local businesses have been able to help by purchasing tables to the event or making donations of money or auction items.

Q: How has your own school gotten involved?
Prairieview-Ogden school district and St. Joseph-Ogden High School partnered in a “Dimes for Diabetes” change drive at their schools.  Within four weeks of collecting change, the two districts raised $2920.70 towards my campaign.  To reward them for their efforts, I held a “practice pucker” at SJO high school during halftime of a basketball game and kissed a pig in front of the crowd.  We also held this event at Carle Auditory Oral School, and St. Thomas Catholic School in Philo where my daughter attends.  These two schools also surpassed their goals, and were treated with an assembly to see me kiss a pig at their respective schools.  The school communities have been a great help in us reaching out and raising money for this great cause.

Q: You are a teacher and administrator – what learning opportunities has this process brought you?
It has really taught me that everyone has a story.  They may have never spoken of it before, but once they learn that you are campaigning for a cause that affects them, they open up.  I think that is something that students can learn from.  There are other people that have the same issues as you, and opening up about those issues can be beneficial for everyone involved.

Q: What does fatherhood mean to you?
Fatherhood is the greatest gift someone can receive.  My wife, daughter, and son mean the world to me.  Sometimes I don’t do the best job of displaying what they mean to me, but I wouldn’t trade anything in the world for them.  I hope that I can be a great model for my kids as they grow up.  Being a parent is a tough job, but it’s also going to be the most rewarding job I’ll ever have when I see my kids grow up to be caring, successful people.

Send your Chambana mom/dad to know nominations to editor@chambanamoms.com.

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Eric Boland is a longtime community volunteer, this year serving as the co-chair (along with WCIA morning show host Anne Dill) of the Ready. Set. GROW! expo event on April 2 from 9 a.m. to noon at Lincoln Square. This free community event is organized by the United Way and is a great resource for families with children aged birth to 6. Boland is a certified financial planner who is one of the founding members of Provident Financial Group, LLC. He is married to wife Jill and they have two children – daughter Abby and son Trevor.

See why we think Eric Boland is a Chambana dad to know.

Q: Why have you volunteered your time with United Way over the years – and where do you find the time?
When my wife and I moved into town in 1999, I started volunteering with the United Way as a way to meet new people and become more familiar with the community.  Over the years, I’ve realized how important it is to give back to the community in which you live.  Thankfully, the great employees of United Way and the volunteers I’ve worked with have made it fun to continue.  As far as making time, it’s just a part of what we do as a family.  I’ve also been fortunate enough to schedule time throughout the workday – both with previous employers and now that I run my own business.

Eric Boland is one of the co-chairs of the Ready. Set. Grow! event on April 2 from 9 a.m. to noon at Lincoln Square in Urbana.

Q: Why should people come out to Lincoln Square in Urbana for Ready. Set. GROW! on April 2 (9 a.m. to noon)?

Ready. Set. GROW! is a wonderful resource for young and expecting families.  We have dozens of partners willing to showcase resources the community has to offer.  Information on Healthy Parenting and Early Childhood Development, Child Care and Well Being, as well as Parent-Child Interactions will all be available.  You’ll also find lots of fun events throughout the mall, as well as plenty of prizes and giveaways.

I can’t wait to see our local celebrities participate in the diaper changing contest.

Do you know a Chambana mom or dad to know? Send your nominations to editor@chambanamoms.com.

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Dr. J.J. Jimenez is a Springfield, IL, native and University of Illinois alumnus who has lived in Urbana for eight years. A member of the radiology department at Carle, Jimenez is passionate about health, fitness, nutrition and wellness. He is one of the organizers of The Friends of Urbana Parks citizens group which is advocating for the passage of the upcoming Crystal Lake Pool referendum. Jimenez has been married to wife Shelley for 16 years and they have three children: 9-year-old Nelson, 5-year-old Isabel, and 2-year-old Annelise.

See why we think J.J. Jimenez is a Chambana Dad to Know.

Q: Why does Urbana need a new Crystal Lake Pool?

Dr. J.J. Jimenez is an active member of the advocacy group Friends of Urbana Parks, which is campaigning for the passage of an April 5 referendum that would fund a new outdoor aquatic facility at the Crystal Lake site.

Crystal Lake Pool has been has been a part of Urbana in some form or another for over 80 years. When one thinks about the kids who learned to swim there, first competed in swim team events there and families who spent lazy hot summer days within the confines of pool grounds, it would difficult to think of any facility in Urbana that has made more of an impact on family life as Crystal Lake Pool.

Aside from the safety issues that closed the pool, it was clear that CLP as it once stood was no longer meeting the needs of the community. It was also clear after conducting surveys and holding community forums that there is tremendous public support for an outdoor aquatic facility in Urbana. This is why the process to rebuild was begun. The Urbana Park District is committed to responding to the needs of the public it serves. They are also committed to meeting those needs in a fiscally responsible manner. That is why the people of Urbana will get to decide on April 5 whether or not this is an investment that they are willing to make. The new aquatic facility will have a variety of features that will meet the needs all kinds of users: children, adults, seniors, competitive swimmers, fitness swimmers and even non-swimmers. The new facility as outlined by the concept plan would be one that our community would not soon outgrow.

Personally, I feel as a taxpayer that it is an excellent investment to make. Facilities like parks and pools strengthen a community by promoting recreation, fitness and family interaction. We have so many demands on our time and everyday there is some new way for us to spend time, usually away from our family. If we as a community can provide an avenue for families to get up off the couch and out of the house to enjoy quality time together then that in my opinion is money well spent.

Q: Why should Urbana families, many of whom are still struggling due to the lingering recession, vote to approve this referendum?

This is a tough question to answer and one that was given much thought by the UPD Board of Commissioners prior to proceeding with a referendum. It is because of the support of the community and the expressed desire of the citizens of Urbana who have helped in the planning process that this question is being brought to the ballot.
This pool is so much more than a puddle of water for kids to splash around in. It is real community asset and resource. For instance, this facility will help improve access to aquatic instruction for Urbana families. Drowning is a major cause of accidental death in the pediatric population. Studies have shown that minority and lower income children are at increased risk for this. The UPD has demonstrated a commitment to providing low-cost programs for the people of Urbana and programs at the new CLP would be no exception.  It is also worth noting that CLP provided aquatics for the day camps run by the Urbana Park District. This is where much of the early aquatic instruction took place. This resource vanished when the pool closed. Furthermore, a new pool will provide space for seniors to remain active with low-impact water fitness classes. In short, Crystal Lake Park is such an ideal venue for an outdoor aquatic facility that the entire family can enjoy. It would be such a shame, almost criminal, to fill the pool in. We have some of the best parks in the area. Our community deserves an outstanding aquatic facility that we can be proud to call our own. When one considers all of this, $37 per year per $100,000 property valuation is a great investment to make. The Urbana Park District is well aware of the financial constraints felt by families in the community as they are subject to financial challenges as well. If the people of Urbana want a new pool, now is the time. We have the momentum, the concept and the support. This is the time to vote YES.

Q: What attracted you to compete in triathlons?

A friend of mine who was a triathlete found out I was swimming and running and suggested I should do a triathlon. I had never really given it much thought but after completing the first Illinois Marathon back in 2009, I went out and bought a bike and started to train. In July 2009, I did my first triathlon, the Rodney Miller in Decatur. I was totally hooked! I loved it. The endurance, the competition, the athletes, the whole package was just awesome. I spent most of 2010 training for Ironman Louisville which I completed at the end of August. It was such an amazing experience. If you spend enough time around triathletes you will eventually hear the phrase, “it’s not just a sport, it’s a lifestyle.” The more I get into triathlon I realize it is true. The amount of training and discipline required exceed that required for most other recreational sports. Most triathletes are serious about living a healthy lifestyle. At 40 years of age I feel that I am in the best shape of my life. If you would have told me five years ago that I would complete an Ironman, I would have told you that you were crazy. I did it and in the process I learned a whole lot about myself and about those around me.

Q: Why did you choose to pursue medicine?

You might say medicine is the family business. My father is a physician as are my older brother and sister. I also had members of my extended family who were doctors. My mother and older sister were nurses. This is what I was immersed in from a very young age. My dad had such an intense respect for the medical profession it was almost as if you wondered why anyone would want to do anything else with their life. I was pretty focused on getting into med school through high school and college. I have a fascination with the workings of the human body so the coursework really came fairly easy for me. I’m also something of a technology junkie which is probably why I gravitated to radiology as a specialty. The thing that really hooked me when I was in school was the rush you get from helping diagnose and treat people. People come to you in their most vunerable state and you have the knowledge and skill to help them. That’s a pretty powerful thing and it never gets old.

Q: As a doctor, you have a lot of demands on your time — do you have any work/life balance tips you can share with us?

The biggest piece of advice I have regarding work/life balance is to learn to say “NO.” When I first started in my practice I got overextended really fast. I felt I had to work harder than everyone else to prove my worth. I felt I had to volunteer for every committee and take every teaching assignment. I found myself overwhelmed and starved for time. I remember the day it all turned around. I was sitting in this meeting thinking to myself, “…why the heck am I in here? I don’t find this remotely interesting.” Shortly thereafter I resigned from that committee and started to take stock of my time and how I was spending it. I paired down my activities to only those things that I really felt that I was passionate about and focused my efforts there. It’s still hard because when you get tagged as an individual who likes to get involved and can get things done people have a natural tendency to want to pile things on you. I have to resist the urge to say “YES” to everyone. Time is a limited resource. Everything you say “YES” to represents something else you will have to say “NO” to. I try to make sure I’m not saying “NO” to my family too often. I’ve said “NO” to some pretty amazing opportunities in the last couple of years. I don’t regret those decisions. I am confident those opportunities will reappear for me at a time when I am ready to say “YES.”

Q: What does fatherhood mean to you?

Being a dad is harder than any other job on Earth…except maybe being a mom! I have never been challenged before in any other endeavor of my life the way I have been challenged as a parent…and yes that includes medical training and the Ironman!

I think the essence of fatherhood or even parenthood in general is that once you have a child your life is no longer just about yourself. In my opinion, far too many people fail to realize this. Everything I do, no matter how insignificant, could affect my kids in some way. I always need to be thinking about this. Should I forget to think about this, my wife will almost always remind me. For me, parenthood is a partnership. I would be hard pressed to have to do it on my own. I now understand how hard it must have been for my father to be a single dad if only for a few years. I am fortunate to have my wife as my partner in parenthood and I probably don’t let her know that near enough.

Do you know a Chambana mom or dad to know? Send us your nominations.

Related posts:

1. Chambana Mom And Dad To Know: Jessie and Jarrod Scheunemann