SVM-MAG_09082015

PRSRT STD Bulk Rate U.S. Postage

PAID

Permit No. 440 Sterling, IL 61081 *****ECRWSSEDDM*****

P.O. Box 498

Postal Customer

L

I

V

I

N

G Fall/Winter 2015

Retreat center has variety of activities under the sun, stars

Oregon bar corners the market on best craft beers available o g l e

c o u n t y

Since the ’60s, folks find food and fun by driving in to Sam’s l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

1

Burgers - Wings - Sports Video Slots - Beer Garden 2 1/2 Blocks South Of Hwy. 64 115 S. Wesley - Mt. Morris www.maggiesonline.com 815-734-4110 Follow Us On Facebook!

Thursday Is “Crab Leg Night” Over 50 Beers To Choose From!



Video Slots

 Coffee, Espresso  Sandwiches, Soups & Ice Cream  Wine, Beer  Giftware, Home Décor  Clothing, Fashion Accessories

White Pines Roller Rink

We Are #1 For Birthday Parties!

Packages to fit any budget Book Your Party Online www.skatingfun.com

OPEN EVERY WEEKEND! Friday 7-10pm Saturday 1-6:30pm & 7-11pm Sunday 1-5pm

6929 W Pines Rd, Mount Morris, Across From White Pines State Park 815-946-9988 www.skatingfun.com

2

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

FEATURE • STORY

L

I

V

I

N

G

Publisher Sam R Fisher Advertising Director Jennifer Heintzelman Editor Larry Lough Magazine Editor Rusty Schrader Page Design Robin Norburg Breanne Hunter Published by

Sauk Valley Media 3200 E. Lincolnway Sterling, IL 61081 815-625-3600 Articles and advertisements are the property of Sauk Valley Media. No portion of Ogle County Living Magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Ad content is not the responsibility of Sauk Valley Media. The information in this magazine is believed to be accurate; however, Sauk Valley Media cannot and does not guarantee its accuracy. Sauk Valley Media cannot and will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by advertisers listed in any portion of this magazine.

21

o g l e

Car club members put their shoulder to the wheel to help others

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

3

features His business is quite a handful

5

John Lindhorst promotes the ukulele

It’s a little bit of heaven on earth

9

Polo camp offers something for everyone

A camp to some; a home to others Bill and Betty Hare have pitched camp in Oregon for 50 years

25

Don’t Dis Our Abilities An Oregon company helps fulfill potential, too

31

Bar owner is Museum has Kable Oregon’s craftsman ties to the past

13

17

Tim Taylor helps people find out what’s brewing around America

A swan song decades in the making

Music looms large in their lives

Mount Morris band director passes the baton after nearly 60 years

Mount Morris studio’s owners share their love of music

A driving force behind them

21 4

Volunteers keep Mount Morris history alive

Car club members put their shoulder to the wheel to help others

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

35

38

Windows of opportunity Customers have been cruising to Sam’s Drive - In since the 1960s

41

John Lindhorst has found his Station in life: Promoting the ukulele Continued on Page 7

• Reliable High-Speed Internet • Family Owned and Operated in Leaf River IL • Upgraded Network • Local Customer Service • No Data Caps or Usage Surcharges

Bringing High-Speed Internet to Rural Communities Residential & Business

Fixed Wireless, Fiber Optics, VOIP, and Support Contact us today at LRComm.com or 815.738.2210

o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

5

LONNIE C. MILLER SPECIAL TO OGLE COUNTY LIVING

T

here’s only one item on John Lindhorst’s Christmas list, and if you want to know what it is, go to Ellen DeGeneres’ website.

That’s where you’ll find him putting his holiday wish to music.

And a-one, and a-two ...

“I want a ukulele for Christmas, dear Santa please.

All the other girls and boys want a lot of fancy toys, But for me, only a ukulele ...”

You probably won’t have to guess twice what instrument the Sauk Valley business owner is playing in the video.

Lindhorst wrote his ode to the diminutive and delightful Hawaiian instrument and posted a version on YouTube a few years back, when he strummed the ditty wearing a T-shirt that read, “Got Ukulele?” Eventually, another version he recorded ended up on DeGeneres’ website where the TV talk show host features her favorite videos. If you want to see it, go to ellentube.com and search for “John Lindhorst.”

Or better yet, go to Oregon and meet the ukulele virtuoso yourself, where you’ll find him at his shop, Ukulele Station America.

This businessman is just as unique and inviting as the lovely little stone building, originally built in 1931, in which his business resides. On a corner of state Route 64 and 10th Street in Oregon (you’ll have to circle the block and pull up on the dead-end side street), the historical cottage is well known and well loved in town.

Its proprietor quite possibly falls into the well-known and well-liked category, too.

A multi-talented man with many interests, John not only writes music and directs musicals, but has a vast inventory of ukuleles for sale, and offers both instrument and voice lessons to customers of all ages and abilities.

John opened his shop officially on July 23, after a long and arduous stint as designer and restorer for the vintage building. It’s beautiful inside and out, clean and tidy, as well as in pristine condition after his efforts and those of the contractors he hired.

John’s love of all things musical is palpable in the tiny space. Ukuleles hang from the beams, are propped along the walls and rest on tabletops and counters. John is perpetually singing while he tunes instruments and explains the business in detail.

He even has tutorial videos on YouTube.

“Ukuleles come in four sizes and musical ranges. The smallest is a soprano, perfect for beginners, and just like its choral counterpart, is higher in pitch than other sizes. Next comes the concert size, with bigger sound and slightly larger in size; then comes a tenor and a baritone. Sound is dependent on many things, including what type of material – wood or plastic – from which the instruments are fashioned.”

Prices vary with quality and start around $50, then go up from there.

“I search for and buy only instruments that sound good and will hold tune,” said John. “Toy ukuleles will not hold their tune, but professional, even plastic, ukuleles will.” He demonstrates his point with a Dolphin ukulele; it has a dolphin shaped bridge and is made of both wood laminate and plastic. It has a rich, full sound. He also carries instruments made of exotic mahogany, spruce, rosewood, pine, mango and some with zebrawood components. Each one is unique in appearance and sound quality.

He says people are drawn to the instrument because it’s fun.

A former teacher of music, he’s traveled the United States and back. He’s trained students of all ages from kindergarten through college. He spent several years in Hawaii, where he was the coordinator for Gifted and Talented Performing Arts for the Honolulu District. He then taught in La Mesa, California. He returned to the Midwest because of his longing for simplicity and a quieter lifestyle.

But, he didn’t rest on his laurels long; he began to teach in Villa Park and Stillman Valley before finally settling in Oregon. Here, he owned a popular coffee shop in a downtown location. He sold that property when he decided to semi-retire and “go the whole 9 yards” to purchase and renovate what was once known as Mongan’s Conoco Station.

It’s here you’ll find John, Uke Can Do It! a smile on his face and a ukulele in his hand, making Ukulele Station America those little strings sing.

Online: You can find John Lindhorst on Facebook And who knows? After you and YouTube (search for “John Meola Lindhorst”) get done spending some time Address: 1000 Washington St., Oregon at his shop, you may just Phone: 815-944-1246 Hours: The shop is open 1-5 p.m. Wednesday, end up adding ukulele Thursday, Friday and Saturday, or by appointment. to your Christmas list. s

6

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

All Photos by Alex T. Paschal Ogle County Living

Sharon Bowers Broker®, Million Dollar Club

Cell: 815-757-7462 Home: 815-732-6685 Fax: 815-231-8089 Email: sharonb@dickersonnieman.com Web: sharonb.dickersonnieman.com

Maydell & Ron Lessen

Dana Daub Broker®,

CRS, Managing Broker/Broker, Million Dollar Club Cell: 815-622-4619 Home: 815-734-6852 Fax: 815-231-8173 Email: maydelll@dickersonnieman.com Web: www.mlessen.com

Million Dollar Club Cell: 815-440-2835 Email: danad@dickersonnieman.com

113 South 4th Street Oregon, IL

Majeski Motors (815) 625-9600

Greg Majeski

Brent Thomas

Dan Danreiter

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

Dan Vereide

GREAT “LIKE NEW” LUXURY CARS AT EVERYDAY LOW PRICES!

TH

THE AREA’S #1 VOLUME USED

Anniversaryy

CAR DEALERSHIP!!

OVER 180 CARS IN STOCK! OVER 300 5-STAR REVIEWS! OVER 6,000 CARS SOLD! ALL CARS BACKED BY CARFAX

1707 East 4th St., Sterling

WWW.MAJESKIMOTORS.COM o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

7

The Power of Planning At COUNTRY Financial® , we can help you understand your risks and the insurance options we offer to help you protect what matters most. Contact us to find out how we can help you build a plan to meet your goals and dreams!

Gary Davis Financial Representative

Chris Mueller Financial Representative

Adrienne Stafford Production Assistant

115 S. 4th Street • Oregon, IL 61061 • 815-732-6106 0315-045

8

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

It's A Little Bit of Heaven on Earth Polo camp offers something for everyone

BY KAYLA HEIMERMAN SPECIAL TO OGLE COUNTY LIVING

T

ucked away in the far northwestern corner of the county, Rock River Christian Camp and Retreat Center beckons for the faithful to glorify God under the sun, the stars, the trees.

The camp, which has been around since 1945 and at its current site

for more than 60 years, serves some 1,500 youths in the summer, plus hundreds more youths and adults throughout the year through camps, retreats, and other special programs, said Camp Manager Dan Augenstine.

The camp boasts almost 100 acres that straddle Route 64. It has two year-round lodges (one is underground) that sleep 40 people, plus two large multipurpose halls. It also has nine summer cabins that house 180

BUILDING COURAGE

people and an old chapel that’s been converted to sleep 56 people. There also is a wilderness camp with three small cabins that sleep 36 people out in the woods.

The camp also offers a paintball course, a swimming pool with a diving board and a slide, a 400-foot zipline, a traverse wall, and more than a mile of hiking trails. It also has basketball courts, sand volleyball pits, and campfire rings.

Rock River Christian Camp is a nondenominational Christian camp owned by about 30 churches, Augenstine said. It offers camp opportunities

o g l e

Continued on Page 11

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

9

Are you considering surgery for your back or neck pain?

Effectively Treats:

• Chronic Back Pain • Herniated Discs • Bulging Discs • Spinal Stenosis • Sciatica • Degenerative Discs • Neck Pain • Rediating Leg & Arm Pain Rochelle, IL - According to Dr. Stacy Wills, D.C., the best breakthrough treatment for serious back and neck pain of our age is NOT surgery, but non-surgical, safe, and painless. Groundbreaking treatments including Advanced Spinal Decompression Therapy, Class IV Laser Therapy, and High-Flow Oxygen Therapy are now available at her office, one of the few combining these incredibly effective modalities.

Finally, some good news for those suffering with back pain, neck pain, or arm/leg pain caused by a disc bulge, disc herniation or squashed or compressed discs.

Whatever your situation, you owe it to yourself to check into this breakthrough computerized non-surgical treatment for back and neck pain.; This innovative therapy effectively treats the root cause of disc problems by taking the pressure off the disc (which can only be accomplished by surgical or non-surgical spinal decompression).

This fixes the source of your pain, instead of just masking your symtoms, by properly hydrating the discs and enhancing the healing process to achieve lasting results.

It has helped hundreds of people who were suffering just like you. We also use the same laser technology that professional sports teams use for injuries and pain. Our Class IV Laser Therapy works at the cellular level through its ability to penetrate deep into the body’s tissues by which it reduces inflammation, increases endorphin levels, and repairs damaged cells allowing faster healing. These cutting-edge nonsurgical treatments are now available at one place and are combined in order to get you better faster.

The FREE 17-Point Qualifying Assessment No charge at all an you don’t need to buy anything. But you will find out if you qualify for this revolutionary new therapy. You won’t leave our office wondering if it’s something that could have helped you get rid of your pain.

During your assessment, we’ll check out your: ligament stability, muscle function, hips, painlevels, reflex response, disc condition, tendons, spinal alignment, pelvic leveling, x-rays, MRI’s, spinal flexibility, range of motion, balance & nerve function.

“I have suffered 24/7 for 20 years with back pain and had years of treatment ...and I’ve had it all (surgery, physical therapy, hospital stays, ESI’s, back braces, body casts... to name a few) and nothing worked. With 4 bulging lumbar discs in a row, this treatment has been a God-send ...a real answer to prayer. I began to be pain free during my 2nd week of treatment and today, after 6 weeks of treatment; I am PAIN FREE 99% of the time (the other 1% is when I do something I shouldn’t have done). The benefits I have received from this treatment have been great. Along with virtually no pain, I have also lost weight. I feel that my general health has improved as well. How great it is to hear my wife thank me for not kicking her all night long because the pain caused me to flay my legs at night. How wonderful I feel not complaining about back pain all the time.”

- G.E.

“My next step before being treated... was to get around in a wheel chair. After treating my lumbar as well as cervical my life has been changed. I now have increased mobility and I am not having to take pain medication anymore. I don’t have to sleep with a special pillow anymore. I can now cut the grass and do other chores. I don’t have to use the assistance of furniture around the house to help me balance. I am actually starting to function again.”

- F.A.

“I actually got results, not the run around that I experienced with other doctors. I have seen much improvement with my back and I will continue taking care of myself, since my treatment...

May God bless the doctors and staff for being so patient, kind and caring.”

-E.S.

Expries 10-31-2015 Results may vary with each candidate. Your results may be similar or different. Testimonials have signed release for use in media. Treatment may be provided by one of our staff doctors.

Stacy Wills, Chiropractic Physician is an independent contractor-treatment and exams may be performed by associated chiropractic physicians.

CALL ELISA TODAY! 10

815-562-5333 f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

Groundbreaking non-surgical treatments are now available in Rochelle WILLS INTERGRATED HEALTH & SPINE CENTER 102 MAPLE AVE ROCHELLE, IL 61068

Continued from Page 9

for youths from first grade through high school throughout the summer, all with an emphasis on Christian worship, he said.

The camp also offers specialty camps, including volleyball camp, equestrian camp, paintball camp, arts camp, and wilderness adventure camp, Augenstine said. It has a week set aside at the beginning of each summer for family camp, too, he said.

The programming this year also features a 1-day “Young at Heart”

Thomas Emerson leans back for a ride on the zipline at camp.

retreat for senior citizens and a weekend craft retreat for ladies.

Campers bow their heads in prayer during a worship service at Rock River Christian Camp.

“We try to have something for everyone, all year long,” Augenstine said. “We have all kinds of groups that come through here.” s

Paintball at Rock River Christian Camp is one of the more popular activities.

Kaylin Storck (middle) untangles herself from other campers during a M.A.D (Music, Art and Drama) camp session at the Rock River Christian Camp.

Dean of Camp Tony Ross (left), and Mike Johnson sing songs of praise at the Rock River Christian of praise Camp during one of the M.A.D camp sessions.

Join Us...

Rock River Christian Camp and Retreat Center Address: 16486 W. state Route 64, Polo Phone: 815-493- 6622 Online: www.rockrivercc.net

Show your true colors and help the camp ...

The Rock Run is a 5K color run to promote and benefit Rock River Christian Camp and Retreat Center.

The run is at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 12.

Runners will traverse 3.1 miles through the various terrain of the camp with four color stops - at which they will be splattered with colored powder - along the course. Finishers are invited to join in a color party after the run, too.

Participants are urged to wear white or buy a Rock Run T-shirt for $10; the color shows up best on white clothing.

Registration starts at $25 for those 12 and younger and $35 for those 13 and older; prices increase closer to race day. Registration and more information is available at www.rockrivercc.net.

Proceeds from the run will go to hiring new staff at the camp.

Teams fire off the starting line looking for cover.

o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

11

Backing you up We all know insurance and investing is complicated. That’s why your COUNTRY representative, a person you know and trust, is backed by a team of experts. And the COUNTRY team is here to help you with auto, home, life insurance and investments. Call me today to get started.

Kerry Wickler

Byron 815-234-2886

Chris Criddle Byron 815-234-2886

Hasen Lott Mt Morris 815-734-7911

Jeanette Linker Polo 815-946-3452

Richard Montavon Jr Mt Morris 815-734-7911

Julie Haddad Forreston 815-938-2444

Phil Hasz Freeport

Agency Manager

Investment management, retirement, trust, and planning services provided by COUNTRY Trust Bank ® (800) 422-8261. Securities products are offered through COUNTRY® Capital Management Company, Bloomington, IL 61702-2222, Member FINRA/SIPC.

032015-04261AC

12

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

Bar Owner is

BY KAYLA HEIMERMAN SPECIAL TO OGLE COUNTY LIVING

Oregon's Craftsman Tim Taylor helps people find out what’s brewing around America

F

rom the outside, it’s a typical corner tavern: The building is painted navy blue with red trim around the windows. A sign hangs on the side, its name obstructed by a lamppost.

A warning on the door reminds patrons they must be 21 years old before they can push through the entrance.

Even on the inside, it’s a typical corner tavern: It’s dimly lit, the only light cast from a few neon beer signs and four flat-screen televisions, playing an assortment of educational and entertaining programs. There’s wood paneling, front to back, floor to ceiling. And the laminate-topped bar has gouges from years of wear and tear.

But Empty Pockets, 101 S. Third St., is anything but a typical tavern.

The bar, which opened in early 2012, boasts the largest craft beer selection in Ogle County. Owner Tim Taylor, a graduate of Polo High School, developed a taste for craft beer while living in Chicago and the suburbs.

He said he “got burned out on corporate America” and came back to the area to start a new life.

“I couldn’t find a job, so I bought a job,” he says with a chuckle.

Taylor, 41, named his establishment Empty Pockets – a jab at himself, really.

Continued on Page 15

Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Ogle County Living Before owner Tim Taylor orders a beer to serve, he'll check online to see whether any other bars within 40 miles are serving it.

o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

13

All That Is Good Begins With A SMILE When you visit our office you will experience all that modern dentistry has to offer, including a comprehensive list of general, restorative and cosmetic dental services to meet the needs of the whole family. Our goal is to assist each patient in achieving and maintaining long term dental health and a beautiful smile.

Some of the services we provide include: • • •

Cleanings & Exams Orthodontics (Braces) Root Canal Therapy

• • • •

Periodontal Treatments Dentures & Partials Teeth Whitening Tooth Colored Fillings

FORRESTON DENTAL 208 N. Walnut, Forreston, IL 815-938-2575 www.forrestondental.com Office Hours by Appointment

14

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

• Crowns (Caps) • Porcelain Veneers • Implant Restorations

Riverside Dental 401 Main Street, Savanna

815-273-2212 www.riversidedentalpc.com

Continued from Page 13

“I thought it would be a miracle if I made any money out of this; I thought I would have empty pockets after this,” he says. But patrons thought the name was a wry comment on the drink prices – a jab at them.

“They thought they would leave with empty pockets,” he said. Taylor, who relies on word of mouth and BeerMenus.com for so-called promotion, has gradually phased out the original name and simply referred to the place as EP. The logo is a plain, rounded “EP” with a circle around it.

Taylor started small and slow. “In the suburbs, craft beer was already established,” he says.

“But here, craft beer was Guinness or Heineken.

Those are more imports than craft beers. But for most people, even just a few years ago, imported beer meant craft beer.”

He tapped Supervalu, the nearby grocery store, which has an impressive craft beer selection for a small town, for its distributors, to find out how to get the beers into his bar.

“I figured, there’s gotta be a market – if they’re stocking all of that, then people are buying it,” he says. “But not a whole lot of people embraced it, because they didn’t know anything about it.”

Taylor took more than a year to build up his “board,” his selection which is listed on an oversized white, dry-erase board hanging high up, toward the back of the bar. He also added a display case, to showcase the bottles and cans of the beers in stock.

“People like to see the bottle, see the label,” he says, noting many people choose beer in the same way they choose wine – by its cover. He says people, especially those new to craft beer, tend to gravitate toward those with attractive labels or strange names, such as 400-Pound Monkey, an English IPA from Left Hand Brewing Co. in Colorado. His selection includes most, if not all of the major styles: wheats, la-

gers, pilsners, India pale ales (IPAs), ales, stouts, and porters.

Taylor does his research before any beer appears on the big board. His criteria include a rating of 88 or higher and 500 or more reviews from Beer Advocate. He also tastes everything that goes up on the board. “You have to know the ABV [alcohol content], the IBUs [the bitterness level], whether it’s hoppy or sweet …” he says. It’s an individual sale of every single bottle.

“People, once they realize you understand your product … they take you more seriously.”

Taylor orders only one case of most of his beers, unless it has proved to be popular or he knows he can sell it. And he gets something else when the supply is gone. “You’ll rarely see anything up there longer than 6 weeks,” he says. There isn’t a local favorite beer or a big seller. There’s just a good selection. “I think they would be bored with a stagnant selection. ... You set the standard for yourself, and your customers come to expect that,” he says.

Taylor has found that craft beer drinkers don’t mind paying for good beer. Bombers, or 22-ounce bottles, of specialty beers or higher-alcohol beers can run more expensive than the average beer.

“Back then, if you would have told me I could get $13 for a 12-ounce bottle, I would have laughed,” he says. “But now, it’s not uncommon.” Taylor likens craft beer drinkers to treasure hunters. He offers a promotion in line with that theory: Thursday is Craft Beer Day. All craft beers are $3, and the Craft Beer of the Day earns the drinker one punch (maximum one punch per day). Patrons who rack up 15 punches earn a T-shirt. There are four shirts, one each for the Club 15, Club 30, Club 45, and Club 60 members.

“I have a handful of people who I owe Club 75s to,” he says with a laugh. s

o g l e

c o u n t y

EMPTY POCKETS Address: 101 S. Third St., Oregon Phone: 815-732-9950 Hours: 2 p.m.-1 a.m., Monday-Thursday; Noon-1 a.m. Friday and Saturday; Noon-11 p.m. Sunday Online: Search for “Empty Pockets” on Facebook

NAME RECOGNITION What’s in a name? Well, when it comes to beer, it can be the difference between a sale and no sale; some samplers of the suds will pick a beer based on its name. Below is a sample of some of the brews that Empty Pockets owner Tim Taylor has, or has had in the past, on his menu: • Coronado Idiot IPA • Buckledown Belt and Suspenders • New Holland Tasmanian Hatter • Smuttynose Homunculus • Coronado Sock Knocker • Greenbush Star Chicken • Left Hand Wake Up Dead Nitro • RJ Rockers Son of a Peace Left: Empty Pockets is located in downtown Oregon. Middle: Empty Pockets owner Tim Taylor pours a brew in his Oregon bar. Taylor is focused on bringing unique craft beers to his business. Right: Taylor’s philosophy is to not over order and keep the brews constantly changing.

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

15

WOODS

We’re Exploding With Fall Colors • New Fall Lines • Home Decor • Giftware • Jewelry • Candles • Clothing • Purses • Custom Silk Arrangements

Garden Mums for Fall Planting

20% OFF PURCHASE

Excludes Special Orders & Antiques

Cash & Carry Only. Exp. Nov. 1, 2015

Mark Your Calendars!

Christmas Open House Premiere Night Nov. 12th (Watch Papers for Details)

Nov. 13th & Nov. 14th Merlin!s Greenhouse & "The Otherside Boutique# 300 Mix Street Oregon, IL 815-732-2969 16

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

Proudly manufacturing in Oregon, Illinois, since 1946 Woods® has been building agricultural attachments in Oregon, Illinois, since 1946, when Leonard, Keith and Mervel Wood invented the first succesful tractor mounted rotary cutter. In 1994, Woods entered the construction industry and eventually expanded into the landscaping, grounds maintenance, and after-market parts markets.

Today, we continue to serve all these markets from our facility on Illinois Route 2.

Although Woods has grown and changed throughout the past 60 years, we remain true to the tradition of innovation and quality established by the Wood brothers. With the ongoing support of our employees and the community, we will proudly continue to be made in America - right here in Oregon, Illinois. www.woodsequipment.com

A Swan Song

Photo by Sarah Zuniga/ Ogle County Living Warren Reckmeyer, conducts the last song at Mount Morris Kable Band concert to wrap up the 2015 season.

Reckmeyer retired from directing the band after 59 years.

Decades in the Making

BY VINDE WELLS AND SARAH ZUNIGA SPECIAL TO OGLE COUNTY LIVING

I

t’s longer than most marriages last. (But not theirs, it should be noted).

After 59 years as director of Mount Morris’ Kable Concert Band – the longest tenure of any director – Warren Reckmeyer has handed off his baton.

The band, one of the oldest in Illinois, has played every year since 1896. Warren, who might have been the oldest director in the state, had been playing in it since 1955, shortly after he and his wife, Carol, moved to town.

Continued on Page 19

Mount Morris band director passes the baton after nearly 60 years on the podium w

Meet Our New Family Medicine Doctor Accepting New Patients!

Enjoy a small town Christmas g in Oregon, Illinois

29th Annual Candlelight Walk

Primary care for your whole family.

Saturday, d November b 28th 4 - 8PM

Santa • Mrs. Claus • Live Reindeer • Shopping • Food Horse Drawn Rides • Tree Lighting Entertainment • Holiday Gift Fair • Candy Cane Lane Hysterical Holiday Hunt Children’s Winter Carnival $250 Candlelight Cash Grand Prize

Oregon’s

Candlelight Walk

Thanksgiving Weekend

Katherine Rier, M.D.

For more information Call 815-732-2100 or visit www.oregonil.com

Family HealthCare Center 822 N. 2nd Street ● Rochelle, IL 61068 815-562-3784 ● www.rochellehospital.com Clinic Hours: Mon-Thu 8 am-5 pm, Fri 8 am-3 pm o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

17

FHN – WE’RE HERE , FOR YOU.

More than 30 FHN Primary Care Providers live and serve throughout northwest Illinois, so no matter where you live, we’re close to home.

Call the FHN Family Healthcare Center – Forreston at 1-877-6000 FHN (1-877-600-0346) ext. 917 for an appointment or visit www.fhn.org to reach your healthcare provider, or find one. Take comfort in our care at 803 First Avenue, Forreston.

AUTO BODY

COLLISION R EPAIR & TRUCK A CCESSORIES

Schedule Your Vehicle Alignment Today!

815-938-3630 | 109 Ash Avenue, Forreston | www.forrestonautobody.com 18

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

Warren, then the new band director for the Mount Morris School District, was named Kable Concert Band director in 1957. He was its 30th chief baton wielder.

“We had hardly set foot in Mount Morris when [the late] Rod Kelsey was knocking on the door about the band,” Carol said. “We were expecting our first child.”

Warren’s interest in music began in high school. He planned to pursue a degree in engineering in college, but changed his mind.

“Music was the most fun,” he explained with a grin.

Warren played in the college band and in a dance band during his 3-year stint in the Army. He plays all instruments, but clarinet and saxophone are his specialty. He also plays almost weekly in a jazz band in Rockford, and in recent years he has played with a circus band during visits to Sarasota, Florida.

Talent runs in the family. Carol also was a music instructor, teaching vocal music in Mount Morris schools for years. She’s also a percussionist in the Kable Concert Band.

Daughter Sarah is director of the Ottawa High School Band, which has won the state sweepstakes in its class for 19 consecutive years.

His reach has extended beyond the village band.

Ben Baldwin, a 2015 Oregon High graduate, became Warren’s student when he was in seventh grade.

“He’s hugely impacted my musical career,” said Baldwin, who will major in music education at Michigan State University in the fall.

“I was just starting to develop musically, and I was just realizing that I really liked music, and that that’s what I wanted to do, and that coincided right when I started taking lessons from him, so it was huge because he was there and I learned so much from him.

“He’s just such a great teacher and has so much experience, and to Continued from Page 17

6

ANNUAL

TH

BYRON

have him right at that stage where I was developing and getting serious about it, that was huge for me.”

July 29 was Warren’s last municipal concert. Wearing his traditional black-and-white ensemble, he handed his baton to Andy Eckardt, the Oregon High School band director who is taking the reins.

“Andy does a great job,” Warren said. “He has programmed some stuff that I’ve bought and I looked at it and thought, ‘Oh, that’s too hard for the band.’ But he’s done it.”

At the end of his final concert, which was packed with well-wishers, Reckmeyer directed the band’s theme song, “Say It with Music,” by Irving Berlin, one last time.

As a final surprise tribute, confetti and balloons were dropped from the top of the band shell, in a box normally used to drop the American flag during the National Anthem.

Warren was tickled.

“We couldn’t have had a better night, really; that was wonderful.” s

Photo by Earleen Hinton/Ogle County Living Retiring band director Warren Reckmeyer, holds the signed memorial plaque with his wife, Carol, after the last 2015 performance of the Kable Concert Band on July 29. Right: Photo by Chris Johnson/Ogle County Living Warren Reckmeyer plays with the Mount Morris Kable Band during a rehearsal for the final concert.

CHAMBER

CHILIFEST DOWNTOWN BYRON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2015

Cooking Starts -10AM • Gates Open-Noon Live Entertainment -1PM • Judging-3PM • Awards - 4PM (Trophies will be given for Best Chili and Best Theme!)

Enter YOUR Chili Team!

Sponsored By: RE/MAX Professional Advantage

Over 380+ kinds of hand-made soaps, bath salts;

815-234-5500

Gift baskets for any occasion custom designed with mailing services available.

byronchamber@gmail.com

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Miracle on 2 St. - Friday, December 4, 2015 from 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM nd

• Lip Balm • Baby Gifts • Glass Art & Kugels • Many Unique Gifts Available • Free Gift Wrapping • Will Call Gift Service

Sponsored by: RE/MAX Professional Advantage

For more information, please call the Byron Chamber at 815-234-5500!

91 C South Daysville Rd, Oregon • Call Toll Free 866-411-6614 Tue, Wed, Sat 10-5:30pm, Thur & Fri 10-7:30, Sun & Mon Closed

815-234-5500 • www.byronchamber.com • byronchamber@gmail.com

www.oregonsoapshoppe.com o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

19

THE UNITY DIFFERENCE Customized Care: Our patient-centered approach to care means that no two patients are treated the same.

Consistent Care: Our clinicians don’t just get to know your medical needs - they get to know you!

Compassionate Care: Our 24/7 on-call service provides experienced

professionals who will be there for you and your family every step of the way, whenever you need us.

Rapid Response to referrals with same-day admissions 24/7.

Unity Hospice

of Western Illinois

Unity Hospice

®

866-568-6489 Visit Unity Online!

www.unityhospice.com

Specialty Programs A Time Together: Unity Hospice volunteers and

staff who attend to those who are alone in their final hours.

We Honor Vets: A beautiful, caring ceremony

honoring and thanking the Unity Hospice patients who are veterans for their legacy of freedom and sacrifice to our country.

Palliative Care: Patients living with advanced

illness can continue their active treatment and receive consults at home.

Comfort Touch Massage: Gentle touch helps soothe and nurture the patient.

Cardiac, Dementia & ALS Programs Certified Grief Recovery Specialist Paws for Patients

Medicare and Medicaid Certified

BYRON FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT

Fun for the whole family!

Jarrett Prairie Center

Education Programs • Museums • Trails Banquet Rooms and Bar Service Available

Weiskopf Observatory

PrairieView Golf Club Fifteen-acre practice and game improvement center • Prairie Grass Pub for casual dining & drinks • Banquet facilities for all occasions

CARS815.com

Text CC597 to 36000 to start getting great deals!

7993 North River Road, Byron, IL (815) 234-8535 www.byronforestpreserve.com

20

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

SEARCH FOR LOCAL CARS

Photo by Chris Johnson John Comer, Sterling, details his 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst during the Polo Car Show.

Car club members put their shoulder to the wheel to help others LONNIE C. MILLER SPECIAL TO OGLE COUNTY LIVING

W

hen members of the car club get behind the wheel to show off their classic cars, they’re not taking an ego trip. They’re helping their community become a better place. In fact, they’re pretty humble about what they do.

Group members say they’re “just” a good group of people who like to have fun and do good for others.

Twelve members, and nearly as many volunteers, are on the rolls at the Gateway to the Pines Car Club. They invite guys and gals of all ages to join them in their

o g l e

c o u n t y

pursuits of all things fun, and fundraising for good causes.

The group officially started in September 2014. Today, the club meets about once a month, and more often in the weeks leading up to a car show or fundraiser.

One doesn’t have to own a classic or antique vehicle to join. Just an appreciation for the cars and a desire to help others is enough to get you into the club. Those two things plus a one-time, good-for-a-life-time dues assessment of $25 will get you a membership.

Continued on Page 22

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

21

Continued from Page 21

Club president Cliff Harmon said he got involved with the club

His sidekicks, Cliff Harmon and Bob Cisketti, nod in agreement.

because it’s something he loves and because he cares about his

All three men are understandably proud of the work that goes into

community. “The biggest and most important goal of the car club

the car shows, cruises, and the restoration of any vehicle. There’s a lot

is to raise funds to give away.” That’s right; it raises all funds to give

of planning, hauling, cleaning, and “behind-the-scenes” work

to charity and community entities. No one in the club gets any pay

that goes on before each show. Cisketti’s red 1949 Chevy pickup

for what they do, and they do plenty. Every cent that’s made by various

is a shining example of months of work. He drives it every day, save

fundraising events goes to worthwhile endeavors.

a couple months in the winter. It’s a sight to behold, and pictures

Bob Kuzlik, the club’s official “paper shuffler” this year, says his most important job “is making sure the club’s sponsors, members and volunteers understand how appreciated they are.” He wants to make memories for all involved.

Michael “Mick” Scarantino, an original member of the club, explains the philosophy of the group.

“The Gateway to the Pines Car Club is a 501(c)(3) non-profit

The only thing he wishes the club could do: Help out even more than it does now.

organization. We established this in 2015. Because a group of us had been putting on a car show every year in Polo, we decided

“Wouldn’t it be great,” Bob said, “if the Volunteer Fire Department says, ‘We need a $4,000 piece of equipment,’ and the club could provide the whole amount, not just a portion?”

22

of many other “projects” grace the club’s website.

f a l l / w i n t e r

to venture out and become a non-profit organization so we can give to various organizations, groups and charities of our choice.

“There is a core group of 12 of us, and we not only produce a car

1 5

show but have also started a car parts swap meet during the show. We

Photo by Chris Johnson - This unrestored example of a 1979 Dodge Lil Red Express owned by Grinny Nolasco, Peru, was on display at the Polo Car Show.

are in our third year of the swap meet, and we are growing every year.

I got involved about 3-4 years ago as I knew our president, Cliff Harmon, and it was something I have wanted to do for many years. We had a desire to have a swap meet in the area, so Mike Berogan and I decided to join and help start and run the swap meet in conjunction with the car show. We have trophies in each class of cars, door prizes announced all day, ’50s and ’60s music, food and a 50/50 raffle.

“All in all, we want everyone have a good time with the activities and by meeting new and wonderful people who bring their cars out to show. For the Polo show this year, we partnered with the Polo Town and Country Days celebration. The weather was not as cooperative as we would have liked it, but all in all, we still had a great time.”

For those folks who want to see how the group lets the good times roll, or for those who want to lend a hand, Mick says, “Watch for fliers for new shows and meets, and come and help us grow.” s

Photo by Chris Johnson - Warren Johnson, Ashton, polishes parts on the engine of his 1955 Belair in Polo.

Join the Club...

For more information on the car club, call 815-718-2590, email Robert@kuzliktax.com, or visit them online: www.polocarshow.org

Club adds financial fuel to the fire department The Gateway to the Pines Car Club is off to a roaring start in its mission to help the community. In July, club members joined officials from the Town and Country Days in Polo to present a check for $1,108 to Fire Chief Tony Karrow.

Submitted by Mick Scarantino Bright colors, curves and chrome show off this 1933 Chevrolet coupe, owned

by Gateway to the Pines Car Club member Michael Scarantino of Dixon.

The funds were raised during a 50/50 drawing at the car club’s first car show held during Town and Country Days in June.

Festival chairman Jon Miller said half of the money raised went to the winner of the 50/50 drawing and the other half to a local organization - this year, the fire department.

“We plan on making this an annual event,” Miller said. “We hope people will remember to buy tickets. We plan to give every year to a local group.”

– Sauk Valley Media

o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

23

Jonas Martin Well Drilling Co. Randy and Vickie Roop, Owners ROTARY DRILLING

g Servin rn e North for s Illinoi er Ov rs 70 Yea

•

Cont theTrainuing of Exc dition ell Service ent

PUMPS & WATER SYSTEMS SALES & SERVICE

Residential • Subdivisions • Industrial Agricultural • Irrigation tion

“It pleases us when we p please you.”

171 S. Daysville Road, O Oregon

Call (815) 732-22 216 Fax (815) 732-446 66 For all your well & wate er needs LICENSED AND BONDED

Ogle County

We’ve Got You Covered

When you need to see a doctor, your family deserves the very best. SwedishAmerican is pleased to offer three clinics in Ogle County to care for you, with locations in Byron, Davis Junction and Rochelle. No matter which location you choose, you’ll be connected to great doctors and nurse practitioners who are part of the northern Illinois health system that has won the most awards for quality and excellence.

In addition to primary care, our clinics offer other convenient services, like on-site lab and X-ray, as well as Saturday hours.

Our Rochelle clinic also offers OB/GYN and pulmonology care.

To learn how we can meet your needs, or to schedule an appointment, please call one of our three Ogle County clinics today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Arthur Breck, MD Byron

Kelly Brendel, APN Byron

Tim Durkee, MD, PhD Rochelle

Tim Flynn, MD Davis Junction

Maggie O’Malley, APN Davis Junction

Arvind Ponnambalam, MD Rochelle

Daniel Retzer, MD Davis Junction

Emily Rogers, MD Byron

Margret Saint Louis, APN Davis Junction

Christina Soriano, MD Byron

Luc Tchapnda, MD Rochelle

Byron Clinic

Davis Junction Clinic

Rochelle Clinic

220 West Blackhawk Drive (779) 696-1300

5665 North Junction Way (779) 696-9200

380 IL Rte 38 East (779) 696-9050

24

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

Bill and Betty Hare have pitched camp in Oregon for 50 years

A camp to some.

A home to others.

BY LONNIE C. MILLER SPECIAL TO OGLE COUNTY LIVING

O

ne week can change lives in incomprehensible ways. Take the case of Bill and Betty Hare, missionaries by Divine Appointment.

Bill and Betty Hare met on the mission field in Nigeria, where he was a volunteer teacher and she was a nurse in a 60-bed hospital. They got married there, and returned from Africa to the Midwest in 1965. They had a 2-year-old child and one on the way.

They lived in Polo, and very quickly Betty was asked to be a camp nurse at The Church of the Brethren’s Camp Emmaus in Oregon, “just for a week.” Bill tagged along to help during that week.

The nine-member board that oversees the church’s camp ministry soon asked both Bill and Betty to stay on as camp managers. For 9 years each summer, the Hares would move their little family into a cabin at the top of the drive at Camp Emmaus. In the fall, Continued on Page 27

“Not Your Typical Gas Station”

Come in and relax in our dining area.

• Daily Blue Plate Specials Made to order hot/cold sandwiches • Homemade Salads

Above: Photo by Alex T. Paschal/Ogle County Living A collection of camp fun is seen in the dining lodge. Right: Photo Submitted/ Ogle County Living Betty and Bill Hare have managed Camp Emmaus for 50 years.

Fall Fix Upp

• Meat & Cheese Trays • Donut & Cookies Sold Individually or by the Dozen • Hand-Dipped Ice Cream • Coffee, Cappuccino, and Fountain Drinks • Nostalgic pictures of Forreston’s Railroad Past

314 E. Main St. Forreston, IL (Rt.72) 815-938-2025

a truly l local l l

Hardware Store Owned & operated by your neighbors.

900 N. Galena Ave., Dixon, IL • 815-288-7841

Hours: Monday-Friday 7-7, Saturday & Sunday 8-5 http://www.acehardwaredixon.com/ o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

25

Member Owned and Operated

Providing insurance coverage for local homes and farms since 1869.

Byron Insurance Agency

Query Insurance Agency, Inc.

132 W. 2nd St. #10, Byron 815-234-3211 | www.byronins.com

330 May Mart Drive, Rochelle 815-562-4152 | mail@queryinsurance.com

Our Contact Information | www.bradfordmutual.com | 120 W. South Street, Franklin Grove | 815-456-2334

Northern Illinois Most Trusted Propane Company 12420 W. Penn Road ~ Polo, IL ~ 815-946-3081 www.burkardtslpgas.com 26

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

after the camp closed, they’d move back to their home in Polo. In 9 years, they moved 18 times.

The board members soon decided they wanted to retain the Hares, and proposed building an addition and basement to the original cabin. Now, the Hares have lived at the 97-acre camp year-round for more than 40 years, and managed it for 50 years.

As camp managers, the couple are in charge of scheduling, hiring and supervising, purchasing, running the winterized retreat house, maintenance of the grounds and buildings – and for 40 years, Betty also served as on-site nurse and office staff. Today, each incoming group provides its own volunteer nurse, and Betty staffs the camp office while Bill oversees the grounds and such. The camp is also responsible for a tree farm, where they cultivate, replant, harvest and maintain the tree population as needed.

“It’s a long-term process, a big commitment,” Bill says. “We want to do it properly, so we don’t deplete Continued from Page 25

the trees.”

Bill explained the couple’s dedication to proper care-and-feeding of the campers too. “It’s always been one of our ministries. It’s a place that’s set aside to escape the craziness of life, and to slow down long enough to meet God. Some have never seen stars at night because they come from bigger cities where they can’t even see the stars. Some have never heard the night sounds of the country.”

Betty interjects, “The hardest part about some of the campers today, is just getting them to ‘unplug’ from their cell phones and computers long enough to encounter the peace that comes with being here.”

Many campers started attending camp in first grade, and came every summer through high school.

Junior high and high school students are often the ones who resist “unplugging” for the first few days.

Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Ogle County Living A spirited game of six-square is played inside the lodge.

Anthony Girome, 11, of Rockford produces from great bubbles with his crafted wand. The campers could choose whether to participate in arts and crafts or sports for this session.

“They arrive on Sunday night, and by Wednesday, we see a real Continued on Page 29

Leaf River Quilt Company

Where Your Special Events Come to Life

est w s ile er 4 m af Riv e of L

• Over 1500 Bolts Of Fabric • Large Selection Of Pre-cuts, Kits & Notions • The Latest Quilting Patterns & Books • Quilting Classes

The he Barn B On The Hill 7 E. Rt R 72 | Leaf River, Illinois iss tthebarn eb on nthehill.net

6679 W. Il Rt. 72

815-738-2855

Contact ntact u us todayy at 815 815-703-0628 -703 for details a o ails or to book a private tourr of bo o our beauti beautiful au banquett ffacility. banq it P Photos courtesy of Peer eer er C Canvas Ca ass Fine Fi Art P Photography Ph hot otto y

www.leafriverquiltco.com Wed-Fri 10-4pm | Sat 10-1pm

o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

27

Nails • Pedicures • Manicures • Facials • Tanning • Cuts • Styles • Waves • Color • Special Treatment • Ear Piercing • Waxing & Much More!

Call for free brochure!

600 Gale Street • Oregon, IL

815-732-2477

www.joannestotalimage.com Sun. & Mon. Closed • Tue. & Thur. 8am-8pm • Wed. & Fri. 8am-6pm; Sat. 8-3

600 Gale Street • Oregon, IL 61061 • 815-732-3004

On Time, Every Time. Since 1977

COMMERCIAL - RESIDENTIAL - INDUSTRIAL - CONSTRUCTION / DEMOLITION • 20 & 30 Yard Roll-Off Containers for Temporary or Permanent Use • 1.5 - 8 Cubic Yard Commercial Containers • Compaction Systems • Residential Refuse & Recycling Service • Service from 1 Time Monthly Up To 6 Days per Week • Radio Dispatched Trucks • Rural Curb & Container Service • Licensed Special Waste & Asbestos Hauler

Proudly Serving the Counties of: OGLE, LEE, WHITESIDE, CARROLL, STEPHENSON, JO DAVIESS, WINNEBAGO, BUREAU, BOONE, DEKALB, CLINTON, IA, GREEN, WI.

FORRESTON (815) 938-3602

28

f a l l / w i n t e r

FREEPORT (815) 233-9216

ROCK FALLS (815) 622-0500

TOLL FREE 1-800-423-0759 www.moringdisposal.com

1 5

DIXON (815) 288-0500

sense of community developing among the students.

They actually begin to see the value in those relationships and often end up apologizing to the rest of the group about their initial resistance.

We’ve watched these campers grow from crazy kids to wonderful, compassionate, hard-working adults in leadership roles, much of that as a result of their experiences here. Of course, most of our campers come from families that teach those values too.”

Until this summer, campers who had graduated from high school had no options to return for a week of peace and quiet. But in the summer of 2015, a former employee is hosting a test-camp for adults who are “young and young-at-heart.”

There’s also a women’s retreat Continued from Page 27

offered once each year. The retreat is organized and led by Bill and Betty’s daughter, Beth. The camp is in session from Memorial Day until Labor Day each summer. It offers scheduled daily activities from 6:30 a.m. until 11 p.m. There are hikes, picnics, volleyball, basketball, softball, tetherball, swimming, games, music and campfires, food and fun all week long. Junior high students even hike 6 miles to nearby White Pines Park and hitch a hay-wagon ride back to Camp Emmaus after activities and food. The high school students enjoy work projects such as those that might be encountered on the mission fields, if they should choose to go one day.

Fishing is allowed in the pond during off-season, and a retreat house is available for guests to rent during the off-season. s

Hannah Atkinson, 12, of Franklin Grove decorates a craft at Camp Emmaus.

Hope Contractor, 12, of Aurora makes a pinwheel at the camp.

Camp Emmaus Address: 3011 W. Camp Road, Oregon | Phone: 815-734-4268 Online: www.campemmaus.org

BLUESTEM

An outpatient department of CGH Medical Center

Henry Oh, DO

Canine LLC

Family Practice

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm; 1:00pm - 5:00pm Wednesday: 8:30am - 12:00pm

Boarding & Grooming

(Except on the 2nd Thursday of every month: 8:30am - 12:00pm)

Home away from home for the canine member of your family

711 S. Division Street, Polo, IL 61064

www.facebook.com/bluestemkennel dogs@bluestemcanine.com

(815) 244-3678

815-243-2866

www.cghmc.com

11708 N. Tower Rd., Byron, IL o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

29

The Difference Between A Special Occasion And An Unforgettable Occasion.

on nati m i b m r A co stic cha ted a of ru phistic ace so pl and nce, a dding a e eleg your w s will am re whe tion dre e. ru p rece come t

Oak Lane of Oregon 3261 S S. D Daysville ill Rd Rd. | O Oregon, IL 61061 Just 3 miles South of Oregon Jodi: 815-871-0948

For you and your next generation.

Your Trusted Advisor for Financing and everything Business!

A wealth of resources.

Let our longevity, strength, stability, expertise and experience go to work for your wealth management and investment needs. Call us today: 866-864-2111

Wealth Planning

Trust Accounts

Investments

Lending/Business Development Officer

investwithfsb.com

(815) 946-2777

Securities offered through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. First State Bank – Shannon Polo is not a registered broker/dealer and is not affiliated with LPL Financial.

www.fsbshannon-polo.com

LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial.

30

f a l l / w i n t e r

Renee Gray

1 5

DON’T

Ralph Miller attaches yarn samples to cards at Village of Progress in Oregon.

DIS OUR S E I T I L I B A An Oregon company not only fills orders, it helps fulfill potential, too

T

Photos By: Michael Krabbenhoeft/Ogle County Living The Village of Progress in Oregon has a small park and garden on the property.

SHELBY KUEPKER SPECIAL TO OGLE COUNTY LIVING

here’s a corporation in Oregon that helps make a lot of products, but the most important thing it makes is progress.

For many people, finding a job can be hard enough.

For people with disabilities, the challenges can be even greater. That’s where the Village of Progess comes in. The facility is a private, not-for-profit corporation that helps disabled adults in Ogle County gain training and life skills so they can gain job skills, contribute to their community, and live a more fullfilling life. It does this through industrial contract work, for-hire cleaning services, training programs and other specialized services.

Continued on Page 33

o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

31

B Beautiful Be

Let us help make your yard • Trees • Shrubs • Perennials • Annuals • Display Gardens • Landscape Design & Installation Fall Open House • Sept. 18 th

& 19th

9am 6pm.

• 10 % Off All Plant M aterial

462 S. Chana Rd., Chana, IL Just North of Route 64

815-751-4162

www.hiddentimbergardens.com

Care, Comfort, and Compassion Community-Based, Not-for-Profit Offering Comprehensive Hospice Services, including:  Professional Nursing Care  Care in Private Residences and in Area Nursing (Nurse On Call 24/7/365) Facilities  Home Health Aide/  General Inpatient, Respite, Homemaker visits and Residential Care  Staff Physician - Board provided in Serenity Home Certified in Palliative  Chaplain Visits/Spiritual Medicine * Care  Social Services  Auxiliary Services  Bereavement/Grief  Trained Volunteers Companioning  Level 3 We Honor Veterans  Medications from Partner Specialized Pharmacists  Medical Equipment and *Our Staff Physician makes home visits and coordinates care with Supplies your physician

32

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

Hours Tuesday - Saturday 9am-6pm Closed Sunday & Monday

1658 S. Illinois Route 2 • Oregon, IL 61061

For more information, please call

815-732-2499

Serving Patients and Their Families in Boone, Carroll, DeKalb, Lee, Ogle, Stephenson, Whiteside, and Winnebago Counties Visit our website:

www.serenityhospiceandhome.org or email your questions to:

hospice@serenityhospiceandhome.org

Continued from Page 31

The Village of Progress provides its clients an opportunity to learn many skills needed in the workforce, including social skills, work habits, and how to do production work. The ultimate goal is to help people gain the skills they need to eventually find work within the community on their own, but they are also welcome to continue to work at the Village itself. The facility offers their employees a 5-day work week, normally from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and transportation to and from work. At the moment, there are “about 90 men and women that attend the Village,” said Brion Brooks, executive director of the Village.

The Village, which was founded in 1969, obtains business clients to give its employees work. On average, they perform work for 30-40 clients from the U.S. and Canada. About half to two-thirds of their work comes from Sterling’s Wahl Clipper.

Brooks said: “Wahl Clipper is very generous about giving work to us. They send us all of the materials that go into the products, and we assemble, package, and ship them out to retailers.”

Julius Dursch, 49 of Oregon, has attended the Village of Progress since 1995.

Judy Hoffman fills a holder with accessories for Wahl at Village of Progress in Oregon. The facility provides production services for many different businesses.

Julius Dursch, a worker at Village of Progress in Oregon, holds one of the tape dispensers that he made for the facility.

He said he loves working there because it gives him an opportunity to “work with my hands. I like to be hands-on.”

His hands aren’t the only thing helping out at the Village; Dursch is putting his mind to work, too.

The Village currently packages about 3,000 boxes for Wahl Clipper every day. Earlier this year, as Dursch was packing his boxes as usual, he noticed the recurring issue of the strain it takes for those with limited motor skills or impaired eyesight to pull the two stickers off the roll that are needed to package each box.

With a determined mind and “whatever scrap materials I could find around here,” he said, Dursch created a sticker dispenser that made it easier to dispense stickers to workers on the line.

The dispenser makes the onerous task of pulling off the backing almost nonexistent.

Made out of plywood, small pieces of PVC pipe and Plexiglass, and a mousetrap spring, Julius’ creation is a simple and effective way to speed up packaging of Wahl Clippers’ products.

Brooks said, “Now just about everybody on the production lines use it.” He loves

A tape dispenser made by Julius Dursch helps workers separate adheasive dots from the backing paper for packaging purposes.

when his employees use their creativity to improve production, but as for Dursch’s invention, “it’s unusual something like that happens.”

A village may be able to raise a child, but in Oregon, it’s helping to raise the profile of men and women who are happy, and proud, to have a partner in progress. s Village of Progress executive director, Brion Brooks.

Contact Us...

Village of Progress Address: 710 S. 13th St., Oregon Phone: 815-732-2126 Email vopinc@frontier.com Online: www.vopinc.org/home

o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

33

ARTIFACTS Antiques.Art.Accents Open Wednesday-Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Conover Square:Upper Level 201 N.3rd St. Oregon, IL 61061 815.440.0936 artifacts.oregon.il@gmail.com

Engagements • Weddings Graduating Seniors • Families • Newborns

1217 East River Road, Dixon, IL. 61021

815-288-6565

ricker c e n i Cafe

P

The Pinecricker Cafe and Dad’s Bar & Grill Pinecricker Banquets and Pinecricker Catering

13 years happily serving Polo and surrounding communities

Kitchen Hours: Tuesday through Thursday 11am - 9pm Friday 11am - 10pm Saturday 7am - 10pm Sunday 7am - 2pm

• Breakfast Served Saturday and Sunday Morning 7-11am • Prime Rib Every Saturday Night • Mexican Favorites Every Tuesday

BANQUET ROOM HOLDS 75 PEOPLE Full Service Bar/Video Gaming • 6 Craft Beers on Draught Served Ice Cold Family Friendly, Cozy Atmosphere • Specializing in Made from Scratch, Whole Unprocessed Foods • Handcut Steaks and Chops • Homemade Pies and Desserts • Full Service Catering, Carryout or Served at your Venue

Event Experts • Catering Questions Contact Kathy 815-440-0476

124 E Mason Street, Polo • 815-946-3321

34

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

Bailey Lynne Photography Oregon, IL | (815) 871-3553 | www.baileylynnephotography.com

LEE-OGLE

TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM Lee-Ogle Transportation System will take you where you need to go in the area Monday through Friday from 6am to 6pm.

Provides Transportation for all residents in Lee and Ogle County Regardless of age, ability, or disability

Lee-Ogle Transportation System is a not-for-profit public agency that welcomes donations to keep the wheels on the road.

Call 815-288-2117 to schedule a ride or to provide a donation today!

Lee-Ogle Transportation System is located at the Reagan Transit Center at 210 E. Progress Drive in Dixon!

BY KAYLA HEIMERMAN SPECIAL TO OGLE COUNTY LIVING

Museum has Kable ties to the past – and more Volunteers keep Mount Morris history alive

Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Ogle County Living A large case at the Mount Morris Historical museum is dedicated to Kable Printing, a major employer in the city.

L

ocal lore has it that Mount Morris was one of only two towns (the other was Hershey, Pennsylvania) that thrived amidst the Great Depression because of the successful Kable Printing Co. “People still wanted their chocolate, and they still wanted their reading material,” said Jerry Stauffer, curator of the Mount Morris Historical Museum.

The museum, in the lower level of the village hall, houses a significant collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the Kable companies — Kable Printing, which dates back to the late 1800s, and Kable News, a magazine distribution company that dates back to 1932.

“It was one of the biggest, if not the biggest, printing companies in the country at that time,” said Stauffer, who worked for the company for almost 30 years.

Kable Printing Co. shut down about 5 years ago, after more than 100 years in operation. Kable News Co., however, still distributes hundreds of magazines and other periodicals.

The museum also has several items in its collection from Watt Publish-

ing Co., started in the late 1910s by a man who worked for the Kable brothers.

Watt Publishing Co. now is WATT Global Media and is based out of Rockford.

The Mount Morris Historical Museum is dedicated to maintaining local history.

“We try not to be a general museum of ‘old stuff,’” Stauffer said. “We try to limit it to Mount Morris-related items, whether it be advertisements or items from local businesses, memorabilia from the schools…”

In fact, the museum started more than 20 years ago, around the time the Mount Morris schools merged with the Oregon schools, with a collection of trophies and plaques from school sports teams and other clubs.

The awards otherwise would have been thrown away, Stauffer said.

Nearly all of the items in the collection have been donated. A few items have been purchased, such as a 1915 wide-angle photograph of the Kable Band in front of what is known as the Sandstone Building.

o g l e

Continued on Page 37

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

35

the

CHILE pepper Grill & Bar

The real deal for

Wings, Burgers & More!

6 Craft Draft Beers Available Nightly Specials Over 55 Varieties of Beer Serving Evenings Tuesday - Saturday: 4:30 - 9:00 PM

416 W. Washington St.

(Rt. 64)

Oregon, IL 815-732-1583

Meet our New Owners: Dennis & Nanette Gillan • Two Heated Pools

• Playgrounds

• Country Store

• Fishing

• Mini-Golf

• Arcade

• Basketball, Volleyball,

• Horseshoes, Shuffle Board • Seasonal Sites Available

Tennis Courts • Weekend Themes & Activities

• Family Owned & Operated • FUN for the Whole Family!

1442 Sleepy Hollow Road, Amboy 815-857-2815 • 815-638-2088 greenriveroaks@yahoo.com

Horsin’ & Kiddin’ around since 1958

Like Us On Facebook

Weekend Retreats • Family & Youth Groups Outdoor Education • Horseback Riding • Day Camp 3581 W. Pines Rd. • Oregon, IL Phone: 815-732-7923 • Fax: 815-732-7924

www.greenriveroaks.com

www.whitepinesranch.com

“Please visit our website and like our Facebook page for more info and pictures from last season. The park was purchased in October 2013 and has undergone many renovations and updates. Come “GRO” with us!”

36

White PinesRanch

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

The museum does not keep historical records, except for the attendance books from the high school, therefore it does not offer genealogy services.

It does have some unique documents, however, including the original land abstract for the old Mount Morris Seminary, later known as Mount Morris College, which closed in 1932; and a collection of blueprints for homes and commercial buildings built by Buser Lumber Co., which closed in the 1970s.

The museum is housed in the village hall, which is known as the new addition to the old grade school; the museum pays no rent or utilities, and has a small budget to acquire new items and to maintain its collection, Stauffer said.

About 10 years ago, the museum was falling into disrepair. A new group of volunteers took over and did a complete interior renovation: outside walls were insulated and drywalled, three rooms were opened up and connected, the old ceiling and lighting were replaced, and new carpeting was installed.

The museum is open only on election days and by appointment. It would be open more often, but volunteers are needed to entertain visitors, Stauffer said. s Continued from Page 35

1) A plaque recovered from the Rahn Elementary school fire in 2004 is on display in the muesum. 2) The museum contains lots of memorabilia from the high school that merged with the Oregon school district in 1995. 3) Trophies are on display at the museum. 4) Curator Jerry Stauffer gestures toward the Mount Morris College diploma of Kit Sprecher, a long time and prominent resident of Mount Morris. 5) Most visitors to the museum are interested in reliving old high school memories.

Mount Morris Historical Museum Address: 105 W. Lincoln St., Mount Morris Contact info: Village Hall:, 815-734-6425; Jerry Stauffer, curator: 815-734-6627 Online: http://mtmorrisil.net/museum/ Hours: The museum is open on election days and by appointment. Admission is by donation.

To donate to the museum or to volunteer at the museum, call curator Jerry Stauffer at (815) 734-6627.

o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

37

E G R S LA E S V I M L O R I O E L H T C I S N I U

M

BY SHELBY KUEPKER SPECIAL TO OGLE COUNTY LIVING

W

hether you’re looking for harp lessons, piano tuning, or a professional recording studio, Aireloom Music in Mount Morris offers a wide variety of musical services for surrounding communities.

Mary Ley and Kathryn Stauffer opened the music facility in February 2015, and already the business is becoming the place to go for the area’s musical needs of all kinds. They wanted to find a way to “bring arts back to the community,” Kathryn said.

The two taught private music lessons in their homes for years, so opening a facility that gave others who shared their passion for music a

place to go seemed like the perfect idea.

Aireloom offers private lessons for several instruments, including piano, drums, guitar, bass guitar, violin, mandolin, horns, harp, accordion, Indian flutes, penny whistles, and voice. The instructors at Aireloom – the studio’s website lists seven of them – are local musicians with years of experience who all have a passion for sharing their musical talent with others.

The students at Aireloom range from ages 6 to 75, and Kathryn emphasizes that it is never too late to begin learning as the majority of the students are beginners.

An impressive aspect of Aireloom’s facility is its state-of-the-art

Mount Morris studio’s owners share their love of music

New Family Medicine Doctor

Get Hair That Turns Heads

Accepting New Patients!

Primary care for children and adults.

We offer extraodinary hair care to bring out the best in you.

Expert hair design, creative color & highlights, smoothing & straightening, styles for special occasions

Polished

Head-to-toe beauty services Hair & Nails Ltd. for your wedding day.

315 E. Hitt Street • hair • makeup • spray tan • nails • facials • waxing • massage

38

Mt. Morris (815) 734-6812

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

Manuj Goel, M.D.

510 Lincoln Highway ● Rochelle, IL 61068 815-561-8335 ● www.rochellehospital.com Clinic Hours: Mon-Fri: 8 am-5 pm

recording studio. Mary previously had a recording studio in her home, and recording is something “she has done a long time and is very good at,” according to Kathryn.

The studio at Aireloom Music is utilized for all kinds of recording: professional recording, demos, back-up music CD’s, family-fun, story-telling, family history, books on CDs, and just about anything else you can think of. Whether people are looking to record their own demo or just to have some fun, Aireloom can make it happen.

The studio even offers the help of experienced sound technicians to assist with recording.

Aireloom’s owners also take the time to push the pause button on

their business to give back to the community. Aireloom puts on children’s shows for the community. Mary and Kathryn write interactive music shows to teach children about the beauty of music.

Past shows have involved teaching children specifically about rhythm and notes. Kathryn said all the shows “involve education, interaction, and fun!”

The shows are performed at local libraries to give children easy access to the excitement where they can learn about music and play with small, fun instruments.

Aireloom Music has a nice, cozy atmosphere about the facility and is a wonderful place to find others who share a passion for music.

Kathryn loves that Aireloom Music “brings an opportunity to folks who want to learn more about music” because they “love music and want to share it.” s

Harry Connolly, 8, of Dixon, watches as his instructor Mary Ley shows him how to play a scale during a lesson.

Skyler Connolly, 12 (left) of Dixon, plays a scale Tuesday during a lesson at Aireloom Music Studio in Mount Morris.

Aireloom Music Hours: Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday for lessons.

Open for recording or piano tuning by appointment every day Address: 4167 Mud Creek Road, Mount Morris | Contact: 815-973-5697, or aireloommusic@yahoo.com | Online: http://www.aireloommusic.com/ Jasmine Connolly, 13 of Dixon, recites a scale during her vocal lesson with instructor Mary Ley.

Olde English Faire

Greens

Proceeds benefit the ministry & program of:

October

Motor Company

3 &4 rd

th

9am - 4pm

We Have the Best Prices & Quality in the Area

StrongholdCenter.org/EnglishFaire.html Owner Gene Green • Kevin Green

Stronghold is a four-season retreat and camping center, operated by the Presbytery of Blackhawk, Presbyterian Church (USA).

Adults: $10 Children 7-12: $5 6 & under: FREE

301 N. Walnut Avenue, Forreston • 815.938.2000 www.greensmotorcompany.com

o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

39

Forreston

Creative Designs Embroidery & Long-Arm Quilting

VETERINARY CLINIC 815-938-3538

306 W. Washington. Oregon, IL 61061 815-732-7920 • Cell 815-535-3432

Thomas E. Hughes, DVM 205 First Avenue, Forreston, IL www.forrestonvetclinic.com

Open: Tues-Fri 9:00-4:30, Sat 9:00-12:00

Creativeinc2@aol.com

800-440-3538

Carol Bellows

We’ll Help Your Best Friend Feel Better

Sweetwood Interiors

The Look You Love.

The Comfort You Crave.

Bring home the best of both worlds. Call or stop by our showroom today!

Window Treatments Flooring • Accessories Lighting • Furniture Upholstery 107 Main St., Forreston, IL 815.938.3681 Toll Free: 877.938.3681 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm | Sat 9am-2pm or by appointment

www.sweetwoodinteriors.com

FLASHBACK he to t

’s

Celebrate Our

arade • est Time P

Harv

45

th Anniversary

Car & Tractor Show, Duck Dash, Donut Eating Contest, Food Court ,Vintage Baseball Game, Create A Canvas, Fun Zone for kids and more!

Sunday 1P

M

Strongh

ffle

0 Ra 50/5

old’s O

lde Eng

lish Fair

e

2015

AUTUMN ON PARADE OCTOBER 3&4 • OREGON, IL

815-732-3465 www.autumnonparade.org

307 First Ave.,Sterling • 815-564-9376 Mon.-Fri. 9 - 6p.m., Sat. 9 - 5p.m., Sun. 10 - 4p.m. f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

Run

Artisans, Crafters & Farmers’ Market

We invite you to stop by and enjoy a multi-level shopping experience

40

5K

Customers have been cruising to Sam’s Drive-In since the 1960s LONNIE C. MILLIER SPECIAL TO OGLE COUNTY LIVING

A

ny business owner will tell you that customers are the driving force behind the business; for Shirlee Aldrich, that’s especially true.

For the past decade, customers have been rolling into her restaurant,

Sam’s Drive-In, for soft-serve ice cream (more than 50 flavors these days), hand-dipped waffle cones, frosty, frothy root beer floats, and the best Coney dogs in the region – they’re good enough to make a vegan fall off the wagon!

Shirlee Aldrich has owned Sam’s Drive-In for 10 years. In her ten seasons of ownership, she’s added a few things, changed a few things, and is perpetually planning more menu items that will meet the demands of an ever-changing clientele.

She is quick to give credit for her business success to the community in which she lives, Byron. In fact, she’s posted a huge “Thank You” on the dining room wall of her establishment, thanking all those who made it possible to install the signature sign out front. The 1957 Chevy Bel-Air was installed on 30-foot posts in October 2011. Shirlee says she could not have accomplished what she has without the community support.

Her crew members come from local high schools and elsewhere in the community, and she’s most proud of their hard work and dedication to providing great products and good service to customers. “I have many employees for whom this is their very first job. It makes me feel good to see them develop into excellent workers.”

o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

Continued on Page 42

m a g a z i n e

41

Continued from Page 41

Shirlee comes from a long line of drive-in owners, and brings those management skills to the table at Sam’s. She understands what it takes to run a successful drive-in. Her grandparents, Grant and Alda Bingeman, started the original Bing’s in Rockford in 1952. Her parents, Keith and Nancy Peterson, were successors, bringing Shirlee on board. She learned the business from the ground up. Meanwhile, in the 1960s, Sam Morrison started Sam’s as a Dog & Suds. That evolved later to became just Sam’s with his own recipe for “World Famous” root beer. When it came up for sale, Shirlee took advantage of the opportunity.

Shirlee gives lots of credit to others, but her success most likely also comes from the family recipes she’s added to her menu. Homemade root beer is still made on site, as are the Coney dog sauce, BBQ Sloppy Joes, tacos, Italian beef gyros with cucumber sauce, and cole slaw.

Some featured items, such as the Tex-Burger, have two one-fifth pound burgers, homemade Coney sauce, a special sauce, and it’s served on a three-tier bun with lettuce, tomato and pickles. There’s also the Sam’s Burger, a sloppy Joe-style burger with homemade BBQ sauce, special sauce and lettuce.

Of course, customers can top off their sandwiches with other condiments, with choices like: The Works: ketchup, mustard, pickle and onion; Deluxe It: Mayo, lettuce and tomato; or Deluxe Plus The works: you get it all! You can get the drive-in’s special sauce upon request.

The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, and its food is served picnic-style in paper and plastic. The taste, made possible by incorporating quality ingredients, is truly exceptional. Give this particular drive-in a place on your bucket-list! s

Sam’s Drive-In Address: 705 Blackhawk Drive, Byron Phone: 815-234-8281 Website: www.Sam’sDrivein.com Facebook: Sam’s Drive-in Byron Summer hours: 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. Monday-Sunday; School year hours: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Tuesday-Sunday, closed on Mondays

Photos by Michael Krabbenhoeft/Ogle County Living

42

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5

o g l e

c o u n t y

l i v i n g

m a g a z i n e

43

Count on us.

in 2014

learn more at

ksbhospital.com

125

podiatry surgeries

44

f a l l / w i n t e r

1 5