VIDEO: Same Business, New Location

Fred Osborne and his wife, Nancy, own Signs Now and have been a part of Mokena for the last 11 years. Osborne's sister, son, and daughter spend either all or most of their professional time working in the family business.

The printing store celebrated its grand re-opening on Thursday at 9981 W. 190th.

Osborne was exposed to the printing business at a young age, but decided to pursue a career in law enforcement. He worked with the Will County Sherrif's Police Department and retired as a sergeant in 1999 after 28 years.

"I took a year off and decided to launch a sign shop. We moved here from Route 45 and Willow (Lane) because it gives us a much larger space," Osborne said.

Mokena Chamber of Commerce President Lee Kaz was excited for Signs Now.

"I'm encouraged by the growth of this business. It means a lot for the community," Kaz said. "We've launched a program to encourage people to shop the Chamber. The Chamber gives support and camaraderie among local businesses."

Mayor Joe Werner was also encouraged by Signs Now's decision to stay in Mokena.

"Any time a business makes a transition, it is always possible for them to move. This business was committed to Mokena. It's exciting and encouraging that during this tough economy, businesses continue to succeed," Werner said.

Signs Now has eight employees, including seasonal worker Julie Krasnodebski, who is Osborne's daughter and who mostly works in Downers Grove as a special education teacher.

"The whole family works here. And amazingly, we all get along great," she said.

Other businesses grabbed the chance to network. Food was provided by EggCetera Cafe, wine was provided by WineStyles, and Coupon Cocktail made its Mokena debut.