Growing up watching TV, I noticed that the superheroes always seemed to have something to make them stand out. A cape, mask, horse, sword, gun, or even a side kick, but they were easily identifiable. What if we had heroes amongst us that weren’t easily identifiable, wouldn’t you want to know? 

Terryl and Kathy Brawner grew up in Pekin and both graduated from Pekin High School. They were married in 1981 and they welcomed a daughter, Holly, into the world. Like most young couples they worked hard to make ends meet. Kathy worked in an office and Terryl worked in construction, but they had a dream, and like many Americans, they set off to make their dream come true. Their dream was to have a place where people could share conversation and enjoy adult beverages without the typical problems found in some bars. Fourteen years ago, they took a leap of faith and opened Rhythm and Brews in Pekin, Illinois. Rhythm and Brews is located at 519 Court St. 

Having a fun, safe bar doesn’t put somebody into a “hero” category but utilizing their staff and encouraging their customers to help others without personal gain, does. As anyone with a business will tell you, having a business requires money, focus, and hard work. There’s always issues to tend with from the cost of goods, taxes, laws, and payroll. And yes, even mental fatigue from the lack of sleep and being over worked. Yet somehow, this couple finds the time and energy to shift their attention to help others in many ways. I was told by area business owners that Kathy and Terryl have been seen on several occasions picking up cigarette butts, candy wrappers, and other debris on the entire block, not just in front of their business. They want the area to appear clean and inviting for people visiting all the businesses in the area.

Rhythm and Brews, with the help of their patrons, have raised over $27,000 for “TAPS” a non-kill animal shelter. They’ve sponsored charity events at an area golf course and have done their part to help A.B.A.T.E. of Illinois, The Salvation Army, and the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. It seems that the patrons of this bar are special too, because they do their part to contribute to these great causes. The bar business typically is straight forward—you serve drinks and collect money for said drinks. But Terryl and Kathy have created a club-like atmosphere without a club and all ages (21 and older) are welcome. This close-knit group also donates to the “Dragon Pantry” each year with all the combined donations listed under Rhythm and Brews. And they delivered 20 bags of Thanksgiving dinner last year complete with special treats for dogs, too.

On top of what the Rhythm and Brews establishment does, Kathy herself also goes to the local discount stores to purchase much-needed clothing for people who leave the local hospital without the proper clothing and hygiene supplies. Kathy and Terryl may not possess superpowers, but they sure have an interest in the community, and they do their part to help others without personal gain.

Each month we’ll try to highlight a business or people that we feel fit into the category of “Heroes Amongst Us” so please submit to the Pekin Hometown Voice nominees that you feel fit this category. And please remember to thank Kathy, Terryl, and their patrons for all they do for the Pekin community.