Mark Charvat still remembers the first time he entered Record Rev, 817 W. Lincoln Highway #A, in 1981.

On the first day of classes his freshman year at NIU, the 1985 NIU alumnus and DeKalb resident bought a record by Jim Steinman called “Rock and Roll Dreams Come Through” from the bargain bin for $1.50. He has been a loyal customer ever since.

Like many others, Charvat decided to attend Record Rev’s last day of business as they shut their doors for the last time after about 35 years as a locally owned music staple of DeKalb.

The sounds of CDs and records clanking could be heard as former NIU students and area residents flipped through the remaining collection. Meanwhile, customers shared fond memories with each other and employees of their experiences at the store.

“This is a very unique establishment,” Charvat said. “You don’t find places like this anymore, and the ones that are here tend to go away real quick now in today’s economy and with digital downloads.”

The economy and music downloads are two major reasons owner Mark Cerny attributes to his business closing.

Missy Garman, DeKalb resident and 1978 NIU alumna, also came to say goodbye to a “personal business” that she said has had a very large impact on the community. She even called Cerny an “icon in the town.”

“It was clearly always what was most important here was the personal touch and personal service, and the fact that this was a business that was locally owned that will be gone and may not ever be replaced; that’s a shame,” she said.

As a regular, Matt Larson, also came out to support Record Rev on its last day.

The DeKalb resident and 2005 NIU alumnus said the business had a great selection and he said he always appreciated the friendly and helpful staff. Larson said he has also made some friends with other regulars, who he also saw come out in support Sunday, talking about the impact the business had on their lives.

“[Record Rev] will be very missed,” he said. “We really appreciate their business over all these years.”

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