CRAINVILLE - The recent purchase of the Pioneers Cabin restaurant in Crainville has resulted in the closing of that particular business. Former owner Dan Valerius will maintain his popular eatery in Willisville, but the new owner of the Crainville establishment, Larry Emery of Carterville, has turned over the reins to his wife, Diane, and her two good friends, Crystal Lukens and Susie Chrostoski of Herrin, who have formed a partnership and will manage three businesses at the facility.

Kindling Spirits, Foods and Florals is scheduled to open in February. Lukens and Chrostoski have been involved in decorating and catering for the last three years doing business as I Do & I Do Two. Although each of the women will play a key role in all facets of the operation, each will have specific responsibilities.

Lukens, for example, will oversee the catering business. Chrostoski will oversee florals and Emery (formerly Trombino) will oversee the liquor store.

"This is an equal partnership," Emery said. "We kind of envision this business as a one-stop shop. We can accommodate almost any special event or party."

Lukens said she went to school with Emery in Carterville and got to know Chrostoski through summer league ballgames in Herrin several years ago. Friendship drives the business.

"We talked about this concept for a long time," Lukens said. "We like to say that this is the spot where celebrations begin."

Chrostoski said she is "looking forward" to the challenges of business ownership.

"It's a big step, but I think we're ready for it," she said.

The three said collectively that what they are offering customers is a place to pick up lunch for work; order a birthday cake; have flowers sent to that special someone; or purchase a bottle of wine from one of Southern Illinois' many fine vineyards for dinner in the evening.

"Weddings are intended to be a happy event, but the planning and organization of the special day often takes its toll on both the bride and groom, as well as their families," Lukens said. "Kindling will offer planning, coordinating, catering, wedding cakes, grooms cakes, décor and florals for the event thru I Do & I Do Two. Brides can choose from any or all of the services housed in this one location."

Future plans include: in-house dining, take-out, plus an additional focus on the pick-up and take-home market. Diners will be able to choose from signature salads or choose their own toppings that range from fresh parmesan to goat cheese, a variety of peppers to sun dried tomatoes, and many other toppings that make salads both healthy and interesting.

There will be paninis, flatbread, subs and a variety of sandwich choices. Hot items will range from homemade soups to hot plates for the day such as lasagna, homemade ravioli, rosemary roast pork tenderloin and garlic mushroom grilled chicken. Special orders will be welcomed and encouraged.

In addition to the product and services, Kindling will work with local job placement organizations to hire dislocated workers, individuals with disabilities and seniors.

john.homan@thesouthern.com

351-5805