About US
About US
ABOUT
ALIVE AGAIN
“First of all…. Michael and Uncle Steve (WE… Goose) live here…. This is our personal residence. To remove the moniker of the “Old Duffy Funeral Home,” Michael chose to pay homage to his love for European travel and also to make it relatable to European visitors. He chose Da202GuestHaus to become the new alias for the property. For those not familiar, the address is 202 E Howard Street.
Alive Again is simply a blank canvas for us to do what we want (as long as we aren’t breaking any laws, of course.) One day it may be a space for an investment seminar for teenagers, and their parents. This was our VERY first event at Alive Again teaching them the importance of investing early and how to use the ROTH IRA. We employ several young high school kids who have an interest in what we are doing and we take very seriously the role we play in their lives and want to make sure they can live their dreams like Michael and I have been able to.
The next day it may be Season 9 WINNER of American Idol, Lee DeWyze, stopping by to hang out and play some music – See Calendar of Events.
The next week it may be part of the 3rd Saturday Market at the Shoppes on Howard and hosting eco-friendly vendors selling their wares.
The following week it may host the weekly meeting of the local “War Hammer” Club or a board game night.
That’s the beauty of Alive Again, flexibility!
Who are we
Michael Jahn and uncle, Steve Jascewsky, grew up in Bolingbrook, IL just a short drive up 55 north.
Close in age, we grew up like brothers and amazing friends. Although not always being in nearby proximity, geographically, we always remained in constant contact and made time regularly to gather together in various locations to share in our mutual (and sometimes not so mutual haha) interests (i.e. music, sports, art, travel, history, family, movies, the odd haha.)
Michael’s long-standing interest in supporting independent artists has overwhelmed his uncle over the years and we have travelled together (and sometimes met) all over the Midwest watching live music and supporting the independent artist.
Through 10 years of attending an independent artist showcase (35ish artists per cruise) called the Rock Boat (therockboat.com), Michael has built an extensive network of artists in his stable of friends as well as supporters ALL OVER THE WORLD to go along with it.
Mike’s love of futbol (us Americans call it soccer) has taken him all over the world to watch matches and make friends. His extensive network has allowed him to mostly travel Europe staying at friends or friends of friends all along the way. Some of those contacts even being made right here in Pontiac, IL from the European contingent that comes through on their Route 66 tours!
Michael, aka Lieutenant Jahn, is a 16-year veteran of the Pontiac Fire Department and is proud of his service to the community and keeping it safe for residents and visitors, alike.
Uncle Steve spent a majority of his adult life in the Bloomington, IN area but some life changes and two near death experiences (cancer and a heart attack) brought him back closer to his home and family. He chose Pontiac because he loves small town life and knew he could help Michael bring his dream to reality.
For years Michael had his eye on the “Old Duffy Funeral Home,” and had several conversations with the owners about purchasing it. Fast forward years later, and that wish finally came true! Michael was able to purchase the property in late 2021.
Uncle Steve moved in (intermittently) starting in October 2022. With a group of friends, family, volunteers, hired hands and a canine or two…. ALIVE AGAIN was born (somewhere outside of Michael’s head.)