Everyday Ass Kicker: Jim Harvey

You Can Always Head to Harvey's Garage

I met Jim Harvey back in Jr. High.  He has always been a permanent Elmhurst fixture and well known member of the community.  Jim did not grow up wealthy, but through hard work, a focus on quality in his carpentry business, a willingness to help his neighbors, devotion to his family, and a love of Heineken Beer; Jim is the latest member of Gusty Winds' Every Day Ass Kickers.  

Jim has stamina.  This guy can drink a twelve pack of Heineken, smoke a pack of cigarettes, and get on his bike the next day and ride from Elmhurst to Wheaton and back.  

Jim has impressively made himself independently successful by taking pride in his work, relying on word of mouth to spread his reputation as one of the best contractors in the Chicagoland area.  He married his high school sweetheart Donna, and they have built a great life together.  

Jim coached his son Jimmy all through his childhood which lead him to playing football in college.  You can see the influence and the values Jim instilled in his impressive son. Although he may not always understand it; Jim is a patient husband and father; who just likes to see his wife and daughter Taylor just be girls.

When he's not working you see Jim around the neighborhood lending a helping had to those around him, constantly using his skill to help others.  He is loyal, and non-judgmental.  

But in the neighborhood Jim is most famous for Harvey's Garage.  It's his office and man-cave, and all his friends are welcome.  I don't think I have ever left there sober.  One time I had so much fun I passed out behind the Garage.  Although relaxing to ride the storm out in the cool grass, my fear was someone might come out from the garage and pee on me.

If you don't know what's going on for a Hawks game, Bears game or anything else, you can always head to Harvey's Garage and know you'll find a crowd.  Jim turned me from a pseudo interested hockey fan, in to a full blown Hawks fan.

If I didn't know the game started, I always know to head to the garage when Jim's goal siren blasts throughout the neighborhood.  Took my son Teddy to the garage so he could watch the Hawks win the Cup with Jim's crowd.  They treated him like a king, and he go to hoist the Tupperware Stanley Cup in victory. Thanks man.

Congratulations Jim.  You are and Everyday Ass Kicker.