Looking for an Apprenticeship in Northern Il

I'm up in the DeKalb area of Illinois and I've been looking for an apprenticeship for a while now. The problem is that tattoo shops aren't allowed in my town and the few nearby shops I have been to aren't interested in taking an apprentice at all. Can anyone recommend a shop to check out? Also if anyone can give me any suggestions for my portfolio, that'd be great. I'm always up for a critique/advice. Here's some samples of my work There's abit more over at http://s87.photobucket.com/albums/k131/Dancingninny/ if you want to see more

I am often out in your area and I have yet to find a tattoo shop that is that great. Same old Same old out here. What can you say? I think you work looks pretty good. I am no expert though.

You will often have to travel to find a good mentor. Luckily that gives you loads of time to practice your art skills. You have a lot of potential, keep it up and get tattooed by the best and they will tell you the best path.... Chicago area has tons of great artists... be prepared for a long haul (and read "I want to be a tattoo artist" thread up top).