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Need some help around the house? Visit some Show businesses It’s the greatest show off Earth, and it’s coming to Galena A family’s act of faith brought church services to Lake Carroll Shop can put you in the driver’s seat — off road or on the open road A

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2 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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MAY 2025

CONTACT INFO

PUBLISHER Jennifer Heintzelman EDITING & PAGE DESIGN Rusty Schrader PUBLISHED BY Sauk Valley Media, 113 S. Peoria Ave. , Dixon, IL 61021 STORY IDEA FOR LAKE LIFESTYLE? E-mail rschrader@saukvalley.com FOR ADVERTISING Contact Jill Reyna at 815-631-8774 or jreyna@ saukvalley.com ADDRESS CHANGE FOR LAKE LIFESTYLE? E-mail info@golakecarroll.com

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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.

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3 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | March 2023

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4 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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ne of the primary goals of donning the uniform of one’s high school and playing competitive sports is ending the season on high note.

This past season was a pretty noteworthy one for the Eastland High School’s boys basketball team.

In March, the team capped off 4 months that saw its share of challenges and obstacles to finish in second place in the Illinois High School Association Class 1A state tournament.

While they fell short by just one game of winning a state championship, the Cougars still managed a number of firsts in the school’s history. The championship game appearance on March 15 versus Hope Academy of Chicago was the first time the program played in a state title game, the semifinal victory over Peoria Christian on March 13 was its first state final appearance win, and the sectional semifinal win over Dakota set a new school record for most wins in a season at 31.

The Cougars finished 34-5 in the historic season, and its unit of 11 athletes included three from Lake Carroll: senior guard Adam Awender, junior guard and sixth-man Braden Anderson, and senior reserve Brayden Jackson. Awender and junior Parker Krogman were the team’s co-captains. The roster also included seniors Peyton Spears and Tanner Stern, juniors Zyacn Haverland, Harper Keim and Perry Stoner, and sophomores Wyatt Carroll and Maddox Spears. Tyler Zumdahl was the head coach and assisted by Greg Zumdahl, Craig Heckman, Matt Hammer and student manager James Reynolds.

Here’s a look back at a season of excitement, accomplishment and memories from the orange and blue ... nnn What began with the season’s first practices on Nov. 11 and the first game on Dec. 2 — a 56-21 home win over Amboy — ended on Lou Henson Court at the University of Illinois’ State Farm Center in Champaign with a tough title game loss. However, when a celebration of the season took place in the evening of the final game back at Eastland High School, the sting of defeat felt by the players was eased by pride in their successes and an appreciation for what they accomplished over the course of the season.

The Cougars finished with a 26-10 record last season, winning the program’s eighth regional championship and falling 10 points short of their fifth sectional title. Rival school Pecatonica also returned several skilled players, and one of the storylines throughout the season was wondering how they would compare to the Indians.

After winning its first two games against Amboy and Dakota, the Cougars played in the Eastland Shootout on Dec. 7 against Hope Academy — and little did both teams know then that they would play against each other months later on a much grander stage. In this game, Eastland won 48-38, which wound up being Hope Academy’s lowest point total in a game during its season.

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Eastland’s second major home event was its Christmas tournament from Dec. 14-19. The Cougars won games against Rockford Lutheran, Galena and James Bowen High School of Chicago before encountering Pecatonica for the first time. The Indians ran away with the game to hand Eastland its first loss, 67-36, and second place in the tournament, but the Cougars would perform better against them later in the season.

The Cougars added to the season’s trophy collection with the small school consolation championship at the State Farm Classic from Dec. 26-28 in Bloomington and Normal, with wins against Rock Falls, Fieldcrest and Bishop McNamara of Kankakee, all after a tournamentopening setback to El Paso-Gridley.

Turning the calendar to 2025, Eastland started the new year with a 9-2 record before reeling off seven straight wins going into the finals of Pecatonica’s Martin Luther King Tournament on Jan. 18. Once again, the Indians would have the upper hand on the Cougars, but the game was much closer, at 63-55. The loss snapped the Cougars’ win streak at 10 games, which included their highest single-game point total of the season in a win over Morrison at 95 points on Jan. 13.

Eastland’s Adam Awender puts up a shot against Peoria Christian’s Jacob Walton on March 13 final. during the Class 1A boys basketball state semi

Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@shawmedia.com

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6 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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Of the final 11 games of the regular season, Eastland’s Braden Anderson (center) and Peyton Spears the Cougars won 10 of them, with the lone defend against Hope Academy’s Tyjuan Hunter durin g setback at the Riverton Shootout to Goreville. the IHSA state tournament March 15.

Eastland entered the postseason with a 27-4 record, and were champions of the Northwest Upstate Illini Conference’s South Division, winning all 12 division games. Regional play saw the Cougars win three games before arriving at the same place where the previous season ended: sectional play.

Dakota, which Eastland beat in the second game of the season, fell to the Cougars 55-39 on March 5 at Pecatonica High School. The win established a new season-high in wins at 31, besting the 30 achieved by the Cougars in 2013 when they took fourth place in Class 1A. This set the stage for a third meeting with Pecatonica, and while they say “the third time’s the charm,” it took more than a charm to win the game, it took a unique game plan — one that received attention in Illinois prep basketball circles.

The third Eastland-Pecatonica showdown on Cody Cutter/ccutter@shawmedia.com March 7 — played, like the previous one, at Pecatonica — saw the Cougars finally get over the hump with a 36-31 win, but it began in polarizing fashion.

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Cody Cutter/ccutter@shawmedia.com

Eastland slowed down the Friday night Class 1A Pecatonica Sectional championship match-up with Pecatonica to a crawl, holding on for a win against the topranked Indians in front of a sold-out gym. Looking to avoid the kind of rough start they saw in the previous two losing contests with the Indians, Eastland practically eliminated the whole first quarter, having held the ball for about seven minutes after winning the tip and initially running some motions. Much of that Eastland's Brayden time was spent with both teams in a standoff: Parker Krogman Jackson tosses a shot held the ball near half court for most of it before making a during the IHSA state short pass to Awender. tournament March 15.

The second quarter resulted in more of a traditional basketball game, and Eastland led 8-5 at halftime. Both teams picked up the scoring in the second half as the Cougars led 24-19 after three quarters and 26-24 midway through the fourth. Those 2 points were as close as the Indians would get to Pecatonica.

One more win was needed before reaching the state finals for the third time in program history, and the Cougars got it March 10 at Northern Illinois University’s Convocation Center in DeKalb, with a 51-43 win over Aurora Christian in the supersectional round. The Cougars joined the 2010 and 2013 teams as the only ones to advance to the final round of four in a state tournament.

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8 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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Just three days after the super-sectional win, Eastland played in a 1A semifinal game against Peoria Christian on March 13 and made more shots than they missed. With a 55-35 win, the Cougars established a new record for shooting the best field goal percentage in a 1A state final game (since four-class play began Eastland's in 2008), making 24 of 38 shots for a average of Adam 63.2%. The Cougars outscored the Chargers 13Awender 12 in the first quarter before pulling away in the shoo ts second for a 30-16 halftime lead, after a 10-0 run over Chiin the middle of the quarter and a three-pointer cago Hope from Anderson with 1:08 before the half. The Acad emy' s record-setting offense in the semifinal had KrogMalik Meridy man lead with 21 points and six rebounds, and during the Awender adding 17 points.

IHSA state After the semifinal win, the Cougars took time championto visit the wife of the Fighting Illini coach that ship game the court they played on was named for. Lou Henon March 15. son’s wife, Mary, who grew up in Lanark, hosted the team for dinner at The Ribeye restaurant in Champaign and invited them to her home, where she showed the team Lou’s many mementos from his time as Illinois’ head coach from 1975-96.

Mark Busch/Shaw Media

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Eastland's Braden Anderson (right) and Peyton n Spears (20) defends against Hope Academy's Tyjua e. gam Hunter during the state championship

Cody Cutter/ccutter@shawmedia.com

Then came the rematch with Hope Academy for the 1A championship. Unfortunately for the Cougars, this version of the Eagles proved to be much better than the one they saw early in the season. Unlike in the semifinal, making shots was much more difficult in this game, making just 12 of 42, while the Eagles made more shots than they missed (28 of 50).

After being down 13-3 at the end of the first quarter, the Cougars rallied to get to within 27-21 at halftime, but were outscored the rest of the game 44-17 for a 71-38 loss. Krogman once more lead the Cougars with 17 points, and Awender added 15.

Awender, Krogman and Spears received honors from coaches after the season. In Illinois Basketball Coaches Association selections, Awender was named to the First Team, Krogman to the Second Team and Spears received special mention.

Awender and Krogman were named to the First Team in the NUIC South Division, and Spears made Second Team. Awender and Krogman also were named to the Illinois Media All-State Teamm, Second Team and honorable mention, respectively.

The team’s hard-fought ascent to second place earned it a place in Eastland Cougars athletic lore. Coaches and school administrators shared that fact to a crowd of supporters during an assembly at the school on the night of the championship game, telling them that they’ll serve as inspiration to future generations of student athletes.

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10 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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# 2 3 10 11 12 15 20 22 23 24 35

name position height weight year Wyatt Carroll guard 5’9” 140 soph Tanner Stern guard 5’10” 150 senior Zyacn Haverland forward 6’4” 200 junior Maddox Spears guard 5’10” 145 soph Adam Awender guard 5’10” 160 senior Brayden Jackson forward 6’0” 185 senior Peyton Spears guard 5’10” 155 senior Braden Anderson guard 6’0” 155 junior Perry Stoner forward 6’0” 150 junior Harper Keim guard 5’9” 150 junior Parker Krogman forward 6’3” 195 junior Head coach: Tyler Zumdahl Asst. Coaches: Greg Zumdahl, Craig Heckman, Matt Hammer Athletic Trainer: Chelsey Ferguson Student Manager: James Reynolds

ADAM BRADEN BRAYDEN AWENDER ANDERSON JACKSON No. 12, senior guard

No. 22, junior guard

No. 15, senior guard

points per game (572 total)

points per game (142 total)

points per game (53 total)

rebounds per game

rebounds per game

rebounds per game

assists per game

assists per game

assists per game

shots made

shots made

shots made

14.7

3.6

3.1

2.2

2.9

1.8

20.6%

52.6%

1.4 1.6 0.5

39.3%

The trio of players on the Cougars weren’t the only Lake Carroll residents who went to state. Cheerleader Sydney Gassman (left) and cheerleading coach Karin Myre (center) joined the boys on the court to show their support and get the crowd pumped up, and Eastland School District superintendent Alex Kashner (right) was on hand to receive a state final medal at the IHSA state tournament.

Photos: Cody Cutter/ccutter@shawmedia.com

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12 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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Their second-place finish in the state tournament this year Eastland's Brayden Jackson shoots a free also marked only the 15th time in school history — and the throw during the state tournament game.

13th since 2008 — that an athletic program involving Eastland made it to the top four in state competition (this To purchase copies of some in includes a state chamared appe that of the photos n take pionship and another the article, as well as others semifinal appearance

by Shaw Media Alex s as part of the Eastland/ pher ogra phot Pearl City football coopT. Paschal and Mark erative).

Busch and featuring Boys This year’s Couand the Eastl gar’s boys basketball basketball team at team — including Lake the State Final, go lCarroll’s trio — raised ukva to https://sa the bar for future ley.smugmug.com/2025/March/ right teams, and Jackson, the on (click March-09-15-2025 Awender and fellow arrow to scroll through photos). senior starters Spears and Tanner Stern have left their mark before they graduate in May — but with sixth-man Cody Cutter/ccutter@shawmedia.com Anderson, lead scorer Krogman, starter Zyacn Haverland and the rest of the team’s reserves set to return next year, they’ll be looking to raise that bar even higher.

Shaw Media’s Cody Cutter can be reached at 815-632-2532 or ccutter@shawmedia.com.

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A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025 | 13

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14 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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omes are always a work in progress. There are repairs to be done, improvements to be made, gardens to tend, yards to maintain — but who do you call to help you make some progress?

That’s where Fawn Ridge Real Estate’s annual Home and Garden Show can come in handy, whether you’re a handyman yourself or you’re looking to hire one.

The year’s show, which will bring together dozens of business that specialize in all things home and garden is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 9 at the grass lot adjacent to the Clubhouse at the intersection of Lake Carroll Blvd. and Ironwood Drive, which is also where the Lake Carroll Farmers Market will take place. Both events are open to the public.

Fawn Ridge started the event last year as a way to connect local homeowners with local resources, owner Kayla Block said.

“We were thinking of a way to show our commitment to our community, and connect Lake Carroll and the local area with industry professionals who can support them in all things related to real estate,” Block said. “We’re pulling all of that together and figuring out how we can better provide our community and clients with all types of services.”

During the show, homeowners can connect with businesses to get inspiration and ideas for future projects, learn about innovations in home tech and energy efficiency, get preventative maintenance tips, see what it takes to step up their curb appeal, and learn more about loans, mortgages and insurance plans.

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The event “promises something for everyone,” Block said, and looking at the list of vendors so far, it already looks like it’ll live up to the promise.

Scheduled to appear (as of mid-April) are: Bader Construction, Freeport; Bomar Heating and Cooling, Freeport; Crystal Image Cleaning, Freeport; Danlee Wood Products, Forreston; Elevated Roofing, Stockton; Exchange State Bank, Lanark; First State Bank, Polo, Shannon and Lake Carroll; Floor to Ceiling, Freeport; Hiester Construction, Freeport; JCWIFI, Freeport; Jo-Carroll Energy, Elizabeth; Oak Leaf Construction, McConnell; Renewal by Andersen, Des Plaines; Six Point Services, Lena; Matt Zumdahl of State Farm Insurance, Freeport; Stateline Solar; Lena; Sterling Woodworks, Sterling; Sweitzer Nursery, Lanark; Vanderheyden Furniture and Flooring, Lena; and Wulffbuilt Custom Builders, Sabula.

In addition to promoting their products, several vendors will have handouts and giveaways, Block said.

Last year’s show took place on the grounds next to Fawn Ridge’s offices on Association Drive, and the farmers market relocated there for that week from its then-typical location at the East Marina. About 30 vendors showed up, despite weather that threatened the event. Organizers have learned a few things since that first show, and they’re hoping for an even better turnout — and better weather.

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16 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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Planning to visit Fawn Ridge’s Home and Garden Show on June 9? While you’re there, drop by the farmers market (last year’s seen here), which will be held nearby on the same day.

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“Last year, for being the inaugural, it went really well,” Block said. “The only downfall was the weather, and that’s the hard part about having it outside. We learned a lot of takeaways for layout, and providing entertainment can give people a reason to hang out and talk to more people. We want to grow the number of vendors coming, and we’ve had a lot of good feedback from them. The majority of the vendors this year were there last year, and we have some new ones coming as well.”

The free lunch for those who attend will return this year, and live music has been added to the lineup. In addition, the show’s new location near the Clubhouse will provide a more visible location, as opposed to last year’s being along a side street; many more people drive on Lake Carroll Blvd. than they do Association Drive.

“We’re looking forward to being in a new location, it gives us a little more space to spread out, and to be in conjunction with the farmers market,” Kayla said. “It’ll be nice, and it’s a great way to connect the community to all of the providers that are out here, and in different realms than what someone may be looking for.

There are all kinds of things to help update your home or to maintain your home.”

Shaw Media reporter Cody Cutter can be reached at 815-632-2532 or ccutter@shawmedia.com.

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18 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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Fawn Ridge Real Estate’s Home and Garden Show is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

June 7 at the green space near the Clubhouse, at the intersection of Lake Carroll Blvd. and Ironwood Drive. The Lake Carroll Farmer’s Market also is nearby the same day and time. Find Fawn Ridge on Facebook, email fawnridgerealty@gmail. com or call 815-493-2829 for more information.

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Ever since Robin Wilhelms Saar and her husband Jeff moved to Lake Carroll, they’ve loved to sing its praises, and the sights and sounds of their own little piece of heaven have given them plenty to praise: sunlight dancing on the water, laughter drifting across the lake from boats filled with friends and family, birds chirping, animals scampering through the grass.

But even with all that, there was still one missing piece of heaven they felt the lake could use: a place where people could come together in faith and fellowship.

Though the couple’s Sunday mornings were spent at Bethel United Methodist Church’s services in Shannon, they wanted a place a little closer to God. Bolstered by the their family’s faith and devotion, and coupled with a commitment to their community by the lake, the Saars helped begin an early Sunday morning service at the East Marina’s picnic shelter, Church at the Lake, which has brought dozens of worshippers from both inside and outside Lake Carroll for an hour of fellowship, comfort, inspiration, and words of wisdom from Bethel UMC pastor Jeremiah Lee. The non-denominational service begins at 8:30 a.m. on Sundays and runs from the day before Memorial Day to the day before Labor Day (May 25 to Aug. 31 this year) and is open to the public. The faithful flock to the marina by car, golf cart, on foot and even by boat.

Taking in an outdoor service resonates differently with people, Robin said, as if there’s a grater clarity and peace of mind when hearing the words of the Bible surrounded by God’s handiwork.

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“It was to bring others together to share in our faith with open doors to any denomination on every weekend in the summer,” Robin said. “We were welcomed by the Lake Carroll Board of Directors to gather Sunday mornings for an hour at the East Marina pavilion. Our vision was a casual, small intimate outdoor gathering amongst the lake, the deer, the birds singing and the warm breeze of nature.”

The Saars established Church at the Lake in 2014 with Robin’s parents, Omar and Janice Wilhelms. Lee is the fourth pastor to conduct its services, and has been with Bethel UMC since last summer, coming from a church in Addison. He’s no stranger to worshipping outdoors, and enjoys the Sunday summer morns at Lake Carroll.

“Church isn’t about a building, but is about people,” Lee said.

“What I like about the service at the lake is the idea that we don’t have to just worship God in a sanctuary. God is everywhere, and that opens doors for all of the possibilities for people to be whatever they want to be, and still can worship in God. This can serve as an outreaching to people who might not be comfortable coming to churches, but at the lake, or outside, it can be easier for them.”

Organizers do manage to bring a bit of the church into the outdoor outreach though. There’s some caffeine to kick start the day — about 100 cups of coffee are served during at typical service — along with light refreshments. Contemporary Christian music is performed, but sans the song lyrics projected on a screen as some churches do. Instead, worshippers turn to a binder of lyrics to raise their voices in song. And as for the collection plate?

People can drop their offerings into a bright yellow bait bucket instead.

One special event during the year is the annual patriotic-themed service.

This year’s is on June 29, the Sunday before Independence Day, and breakfast will be served.

Each service begins with a short song of inspiration, “Shall We Gather at the River,” with lyrics modified by the late Deborah Endress of Shannon, who attended for several years with her husband Jim: “Shall we gather at Lake Carroll, Beautiful, beautiful Lake Carroll, Yes, we’ll gather at Lake Carroll, To praise God at the Church by the Lake!”

Jim, who still owns property in Lake Carroll, enjoyed seeing and hearing Deborah play with the church’s Praise Band. The couple also enjoyed the early service time, and getting to know everyone who comes each Sunday, a gathering of people of all ages and backgrounds.

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Each year, a service at Church at the Lake has an Independence Day theme, and a breakfast on the Sunday before the holiday.

This year’s will be June 29.

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“She really liked this,” Jim said. “Yeah, we had to get up in a pretty good time to get there and get set up, but at 9:30, we would pack up and head home and we were done with church for the day. We really loved the early time slot. I think there have been people that have come to this service that I wouldn’t have necessarily expected from a generational standpoint, simply because it was earlier than the service in the sanctuary.

“The Church by the Lake definitely deepened our faith and commitment to doing the Lord’s work, all in a beautiful, casual outdoor setting.”

Two members of the Praise Band, Jeff Norton and Jason Mlakar, both of Lake Carroll, went on to form the band Better Late Than Never, which records and performs secular music with fellow band members Scott Woodley and Melissa McCammack, also of Lake Carroll.

Jim and others have come to know new Lake Carroll residents, whether part-time or full-time, who are looking for a new or second church home while they’re getting used to life at the lake.

“There are weekenders at Lake Carroll who come out for the weekend, and sort of miss going to church even through they’re here for the weekend,” Jim said. “You can get up, come casually, and in 45 minutes to an hour we’re done, and you can go back to whatever it is at the lake you do. Our ministry has added some couples to the church here after seeing us there, and now they come to our church during the non-summer months as well. That’s been really cool.”

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24 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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Robin said she enjoys the blended nature of the church — familiar faces and new friends, Lake residents with family, visitors, and others who stop by. There are people to meet and stories to share.

“When the kids come home from college, or from other things, they’ll show up and it’s fun to see these groups come together,” Robin said. “It’s an easy, casual, non-denominational service. There’s people who need prayer and have joys, and there’s a lot of that.”

Jeff also likes the fellowship and casual nature of spreading the faith, he said, and he enjoys telling others about the lake service, from people interested in attending to those who are just passing by and wonder what that large gathering is at the shelter on an early Sunday morning.

Sometimes nature puts a damper on things, but even then there’s a silver lining in the clouds.

“During the first or second year, we were rained out and had about five dozen donuts,” Jeff said.

“We didn’t have the formal ‘Send out the message’ to people about them, so I actually sat in my car out at the [marina] entrance, and anyone that came in or out of the parking lot, I told them that the church service was canceled and I handed the donuts out. There were a lot of fishermen that were coming. It’s all just laid back and very casual.”

Having a hand in helping faith find a home at Lake Carroll has been a joy for Robin, whose idea 11 years ago has grown in to a staple of the community.

“I truly believed that God called our family to do this,” Robin said. “We’re here to make a difference in people’s lives, and we can share our faith and give people who want to attend a chance to talk about their needs or their joys. That’s important to me.”

Shaw Media reporter Cody Cutter can be reached at 815-632-2532 or ccutter@shawmedia.com.

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you’ve ever listened to an oldies station, you’ve probably been carried away by the Fifth Dimension’s high-flying hit from the summer of ’67 that celebrated the joy of floating “Up, Up and Away” in a beautiful balloon — and if you’ve ever been to an annual event in Galena during a weekend in June, you’ve seen that song come to life.

And just like the song, the event has become a high-flying summer hit.

Thousands of visitors land in the city each year for The Great Galena Balloon Race, a 3-day event that fills the sky with vivid colors and the air with “Oooh’s!” and “Aaah’s!” as dozens of hot air balloons take their gentle ascent for a race where there’s no need for speed.

This year’s race runs from Friday, June 20, to Sunday, June 22, at Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa, located within The Galena Territory, and the race isn’t the only thing people can enjoy: There’ll be live music, a classic car show, food and drink, a night glow show and other family-friendly activities.

The Great Galena Balloon Race brings together nearly two dozen hot air balloon owners from throughout the Midwest who come to scenic Jo Daviess County each June to enjoy a ride in the air and compete against one another for prizes. Contrary to the name, the event isn’t really a race — it’s just been what such events have been called for years. The competition angle comes from pilots rising to the challenge of dropping markers from the balloons on targets below.

While most people have seen film and photos of hot air balloons, there’s nothing quite like seeing them up close, feeling the heat as the burners blast a burst of hot air into the balloons and seeing them lifted skyward, said event coordinator Cooper Williams, who’s also co-owner of On The Fly Inflatables in Galena, which offers balloon rides in the area and inflatable play structures.

“It heightens the other senses when you can be there in person,” Williams said. “A video doesn’t show you the whole aspect of it. In person, you can see what goes on behind the scenes and how everything plays out. It’s nice to see the whole thing.”

Cooper Williams, coordinator for The Great Galena Balloon Race, and co-owner of On The Fly Inflatables.

CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

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28 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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Spectators watch hot air balloons as they prepare to make their silent ascent skyward during The Great Galena Balloon Race.

Once they’ve taken off it takes teamwork between man and nature to navigate the gentle giants.

The pilots rely on wind for the balloons’ horizontal movements, “steering” them by adjusting altitude to find wind streams moving in different directions; it’s a skill that requires a thorough understanding of wind patterns and precise control. The balloons also fly better closer to sunrise and sunset, where there are fewer weather-related elements that can affect the their flight. That’s why the races start early and later in the day: 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 5 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Spectators get to see the colors and patterns take shape as each balloon inflates, and the colors really shine during a Night Glow Extravaganza after one of the races, at 8:30 p.m. Saturday. The glow of the balloons against the backdrop of the night sky is a sight to behold.

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“It’s cool to see them inflated and stationary. Without ever taking off, they just stand in the same spot with a little bit of movement,” Williams said, but “With the glow, you can see the balloon and the design from inside out almost, and there’s so much more color when it’s dark out.”

The event has grown since its began in 2002, when it started out as a way to help a good cause.

Cooper developed Type 1 diabetes as a child, and found a sense of comfort in managing it through participation at Camp Hertko Hollow, a camp for children with Type 1 diabetes in Boone, Iowa. Cooper’s experiences led his father, Andy Williams, who also co-owns On The Fly Inflatables, to organize the balloon race to help raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and to send children to Hertko Hollow.

“The camp let me learn about how to live with [diabetes], that I’m not alone with it, and that there are hundreds of other people like me with it,” Cooper said. “We also got to see all of the new equipment and changes that were coming out, and that changes someone’s life who is living with Type 1 Diabetes immensely. It helped turn mine around for sure, and it helped me manage mine better.”

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30 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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Since the first race, the event has raised more than $350,000 through entry fees, admissions and concessions.

“We’ve been getting more and more people to come out, and it seems like they’re more excited to be involved,” Williams said. “It makes it more enjoyable and more fun.”

Cooper is learning to become a certified balloon pilot and is in line to take over the family business in the next few years. His first ride in a balloon was when he was just 3 weeks old, and being in the big balloons has been a constant in his life. His time in the air helps first-time riders who sometimes need a little extra help with high altitudes.

On The Fly’s rides let passengers enjoy a leisurely look at the scenery, giving them a bird’s-eye view of the lay of the land — they’re high enough to get a good look, but not so high that riders can’t can spot wildlife, or sometimes even hear a backyard conversation below.

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Night flight ... Seeing the balloons during the day is impressive enough, but seeing these glow-in-the-dark giants at night is something else. “There’s so much more color when it’s dark out,” said event coordinator Cooper Williams.

Flights are booked at buyaballoonride. com, and are offered seven days a week from May through October around the Galena area; sunset flights are offered each day, while sunrise flights are available on weekends. Rides are typically within a five-mile radius of launch sites, but can float a little farther, depending on where the wind takes them; they last about an hour and passengers have to stand for the duration.

After the seeing the flight’s sights, a champagne celebration at the launch site caps things off with a toast to a good time. With the flights co-piloted by the wind, each one is different, and that brings many people back for repeat rides, Williams said.

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“When you come and do it with us, we try to make you feel like you’re going to enjoy the whole thing every single time,” Williams said. “If you fly with us this summer, it’s going to be even better next summer, and even better the next summer because every flight is different.

You never fly the same flight.”

Who knows, perhaps the experience of seeing the race or riding in a balloon will entice you to buy your own and compete in events like Galena’s, or just enjoy drifting over Driftless Area and seeing the world through eyes in the sky.

Just like the song says: “The world’s a nicer place in my beautiful balloon.”

Shaw Media reporter Cody Cutter can be reached at 815-632-2532 or ccutter@shawmedia.com.

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By Cody Cutter Sauk Valley Media

hen Nick Blumer is in the driver’s seat, he’d rather feel the breeze come from the wind in his face, not the vent in his dashboard.

It’s more fun that way, he likes to tell people, and he’s happy to help others experience what it feels like to be on the open road or hit the dusty trail on the rides he sells at his family’s Freeport business.

Motorcycles, dirt bikes, all-terrain and utility vehicles — Blumer and the staff can put you in the driver’s seat of all of them at Freeport Honda Kawasaki, located couple of miles north of town on state Route 26. The shop offers sales, service and repairs, parts and equipment — and a few things they’ll thrown in for free: a passion for their business and decades of experience.

The joy of getting behind the wheel, or handlebars, is something that runs in the family. Blumer works with his parents, Scott and Lorraine Blumer, who’ve owned the business for nearly 35 years.

“I get excited talking about it with people,” Nick said. “I know how much enjoyment it gives me, and I love for other people to share their enjoyment with me.”

The large showroom has rows of the newest Honda and Kawasaki motorcycles and dirt bikes in different models and engine sizes that fit customers’ needs, whether they’re beginners or experienced riders. The ATVs and UTVs are lined around the outside of the building, and there’s a separate showroom for used vehicles.. Financing also is available. Can’t make it to the store? Information on its inventory is available online.

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Nick and Heidi Blumer of Freeport Honda Kawasaki enjoy sharing their passion for riding on the open road with customers. The couple are set to take over as its owners following the approaching retirement of Nick’s parents, Scott and Lorraine Blumer.

CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

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COM CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.

The shop carries both sports bikes, geared for speed and handling, and cruisers, for comfort and style, and the staff brings the kind of product knowledge that can only come from firsthand experience, with both hands on the handlebars. The same goes for the ATVs and UTVs they sell.

From finding the best fit for their needs and the best places to ride them, to offering safety tips and riding techniques, the team at Freeport Honda Kawasaki knows their stuff.

“Everyone who works here is a rider themselves,” Nick said.

“They’ll use ATVs for their farm work, or even ride their motorcycles to and from work, and on the weekends. Everyone’s passionate about it, and it shows with what we do.”

ATVs and UTVs have become increasingly popular in recent years and models are available for a variety of uses: the casual user tooling around the neighborhood, the off-roader who revels in the rough ride or even the homeowner plowing snow.

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greaterfreeport.com A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025 | 39

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CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

Whether you feel the need for speed or you’d rather just scoot along, Freeport Honda Kawasaki has a line of new and used two-wheeled transportation that’ll take you on road and off — sport bikes, cruisers, dirt bikes, and scooters.

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40 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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COM CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.

Nick’s wife Heidi is the office manager, and has enjoyed seeing him both share his passion with customers, and instill it in new riders.

“We really pride ourselves in knowing our customers,” Heidi said. “Nick will know just about every customer’s name. We provide units, but we also want our customers to go out and have fun, and go out and enjoy themselves on the road or dirt.

If they’re farmers, we want to them be able to do their work well. We can service them as well so that we can get them in and out and back to their fun or work.”

The shop’s inventory isn’t just for big boys and girls either; the little ones can get in on the action, too, with rides for kids in stock, too.

Riding in style — and safety ... Freeport Honda Kawasaki carries a line of clothing and protective gear, as well as parts and accessories for your vehicle.

Check out our UPDATED website for current inventory

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The team at Freeport Honda Kawasaki knows a thing or two about what they sell and service.

“Everyone who works here is a rider themselves,” said owner Nick Blumer.

“They’ll use ATVs for their farm work, or even ride their motorcycles to and from work, and on the weekends.

Everyone’s passionate about it, and it shows with what we do.”

CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

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The Blumers and their staff enjoy seeing their rides run in the family.

“We get a fair amount of families who come here and buy the 50cc and 110cc bikes to get their kids interested in it,” Heidi said. “That’s something we really love seeing, when the grandpa comes in with their son and little kid to buy their first bike. It really is fun to see that. We hope that they graduate from bike to bike.”

The Blumers enjoy seeing generations of families share the experience of riding, and this Kawasaki Elektrode is a good way to get younger riders started.

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CODY CUTTER/CCUTTER@SHAWMEDIA.COM

Freeport Honda Kawasaki, 3086 state Route 26 in Freeport, is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday; and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Find it on Facebook, go to freeporthondakawasaki.com, email fhk1@comcast. net or call 815-235-7549 for more information.

It’s a feeling the Blumers know well.

Scott and Lorraine instilled a passion and appreciation of open roads and trails in Nick and his three younger brothers early on, so they know the business will be in good hands when they retire — which won’t be long. Scott and Lorraine are transitioning into retirement in the coming year, and Nick and Heidi are set to take over as its new owners to help usher in the next generation of riders and promote the enjoyment of riding.

“When we see people start to ride, we like to keep them riding and see what it takes to do that,” Nick said. “We just like to see people out on the road and enjoying themselves.”

Shaw Media reporter Cody Cutter can be reached at 815-632-2532 or ccutter@shawmedia.com.

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A Guide To

Lake Carroll Real Estate

Are you looking to enjoy the Lake Lifestyle?

The following pages will show you the properties available to you right now!

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025 | 45

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$1,745,000 25-80 LAKE CARROLL BLVD

5.5 BATH

6 BDRM

5578 SQFT

WATERFONT Home Built in 2020 | 169' Waterfrontage | Whole House Generator Amazing Lake Views | 3 Car Garage | 1.78 A

$1,650,000

$1,150,000

$999,500

WATERFRONT

WATERFRONT

WATERFRONT

24-102/103 SHENANDOAH 13-89 QUAIL HOLLOW DR 4.5 BATH

7 BDRM

7470 SQFT

3 BATH

5 BDRM

4850 SQFT

28-29 SOUTHVIEW DR 3.5 BATH

5 BDRM

3070 SQFT

WATERFONT Home on 12.61 acres 2 Lots | 245' Water Frontage | 3+ car garage | In-Ground Pool | Entertaining is Endless

Furnished | 189' Water Frontage | 2 Fireplaces | Open Concept | Lakeside Patio | 3 Car Garage | 0.50 Acres

Open Concept | Furniture Included | Panoramic Views | Hardie Siding | 2 Car Garage | 1.27 Acres

$680,000

$659,000

$437,900

LAKE VIEW

WATERFRONT

NEW PRICE

24-37 RIDGEWOOD CT

21-50 MARINA CT

1-194R AHAB CT

3 BATH

4 BDRM

3236 SQFT

Secluded Setting | Updates Throughout | 4 Car Garage | Generator | 2.39 Acres

Lake Carroll Office: 3-203 Association Dr. Lake Carroll, IL 61046

4 BATH

5 BDRM

3758 SQFT

78' Water Frontage | Made For Entertaining| Large deck | 2 Car Garage | 2.84 Acres

3 BATH

3 BDRM

3226 SQFT

Log Home | Fully Furnished Prime Location Near East Marina Beautiful Setting | 0.52 Acres

info@fawnridgerealty.com www.fawnridgerealty.com 815-493-2829

46 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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$349,000

$339,000

GOLF COURSE

LAKE VIEW

31-44 WAKONDA DR

28-60 SOUTHVIEW DR

$349,000

1-13 GRANDVIEW DR 2 BDRM

3 BATH

2021 SQFT

3.5 BATH

Remodeled in 2023 | 2 Bonus Rooms | 2 Car Detached Garage New Roof 2024 | 0.5 Acres

3 BDRM

2546 SQFT

Panoramic Country Views | On the 15th Hole and 16th Tee Box of GOLF COURSE | 1.05 acres

$264,900

3 BATH

3 BDRM

2048 SQFT

Open Concept | Fully Updated Inside & Out | 3+ Car Detached & Heated Garage | 1.72 Acres

$299,000

WATERFRONT LOT 25-60 Cottage Hill Ct | 2.04 A | $199,000

DEEDED SLIP LOTS 31-26 Cog Hill Court | 1.03 A | $23,000 31-28 Cog hill Court | 1.00 A | $23,000 31-29 Cog hill Court | 1.10 A | $23,000 23-122 Lake Carroll Blvd | 1.11 A | $25,000 24-22 Lake Carroll Blvd | 3.55 A | $29,000 21-56 Old Wharf Rd | 3.6 A | $36,000

LAKE VIEW

SHANNON

4-155 BEACHCOMBER DR

26131 STRAW SCHOOL RD

2 BATH

3 BDRM

1788 SQFT

Cozy, Open Concept | Bordering Greenway | 4 Car Detached Garage | 0.8 Acres

KAYLA BLOCK

NICK BLOCK

DESIGNATED MANAGING MANAGING BROKER BROKER | OWNER OWNER

815-475-8060

815-906-1701

2 BATH

2 BDRM

2529 SQFT

Country Property on 3 Acres | Open Concept Living Space | Heated Workshop

CYNDY GRIFFIN BROKER 815-238-7597

BARB HILL BROKER

815-766-2758

TOM MILLER

MANAGING BROKER

815-297-4968

KEVIN PAYNE BROKER 630-816-0863

GARY SHELLHAUSE

MANAGING BROKER

815-238-4368

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KNOWS LAKE CARROLL MAKE LAKE CARROLL YOUR SANCTUARY Call us to Buy or Sell

Town Lake & Country

21-78 LAKE CARROLL BLVD • LAKE CARROLL, IL

815-493-SOLD

WATERFRONT IN WIDE COVE

CAN BE A WATERFRONT

27-54 Ridgeview

25-50 Cottage Hill Drive

FABULOUS WATERFRONT HOME WITH 155’ OF GORGEOUS SHORELINE. Big ranch home with 2 fully finished levels.

Lots of extras including climate controlled wine cellar and NEW build boat house at the water.

SPECTACULAR VIEWS at this immaculate and newly remodeled ranch home with walk out finished lower level.

Ready to move in and can come fully furnished. Very high end finishes. Must see inside.

3-4 BEDROOMS - 3 BATHS - 3149 SQ FT

4 BEDROOMS - 3.5 BATHS - 3960 SQ FT

$959,000

NEW LISTING

Ca

DEEDE location home ha

6

$675,000

NEW LISTING

LOCATED JUST OUTSIDE OF LAKE CARROLL

SOLD

4-15 Grandview ON THE GOLF COURSE, HOLE 6.

Sweet ranch home overlooking beautiful Lake Carroll course.

4 BEDROOMS - 3 BATHS - 2232 SQ FT

$334,000

17-123 Hidden Cove Dr.

PERFECT LAKE COTTAGE! Immaculate inside and 3 finished levels and fireplace.

Detached Oversized garage and lovely deck and patio to enjoy the views.

4 BEDROOMS - 3 BATHS - 2164 SQ FT

$329,000

TOWN L A KE & COUNTRY

24025 Payne Rd

31-3 L

You can have it all right here! Nice and bright with plenty of sunshine and privacy. Located just outside of Lake Carroll on 5 acres with 2 outbuildings, 24x30 and 24x28. Charming Farmhouse.

3 BEDROOMS - 2.5 BATHS - 2758 SQ FT

Amazing money! Th to the com course! Lot 2 firepl 3 BEDROOM

Julie Wenzel

Patti Kloepp

815-541-1001

815-266-40

$

$320,000

www.buylakecarroll.com • email us at: BuyLakeCarroll@yahoo.com

Managing Broker juliewenzel@remax.net

Broker Assoc

pattik@remax.

48 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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LL

CALL US TO LIST YOUR LAKE CARROLL PROPERTY

untry

WE HAVE SOLD MOST OF OUR LISTINGS AND HAVE BUYERS WAITING

ARROLL, IL

OLD

Call us for a FREE, NO OBLIGATION VALUE ESTIMATE FOR YOUR PROPERTY

NEW LISTING

SOL

NEW LISTING

D

28-2 Colonial Ct

newly wer level. ed. Very

3-454R Fawn Ridge Dr NEW HOME ON STUNNING WOODED LOT

DEEDED BOAT SLIP, F-17, IN THE WEST MARINA.Prime location with wide open views of the countryside. This home has been completely refreshed and renovated in the past 5 years 6 BEDROOMS - 2.5 BATHS - 4198 SQ FT

Fabulous NEWLY BUILT home with 2 finished levels.

Ready to move in NOW for fun.

4 BEDROOMS - 3 BATHS - 2800 SQ FT

$535,000

AKE CARROLL

Rd

NEW LISTING

WATERFRONT LOT

31-3 Lake Carroll Blvd.

25-51 Cottage Hill Drive

Amazing value, tons of house for the money! This home is located very close to the community clubhouse and golf course! Lots of natural light and space.

2 fireplaces! 4 Garage spaces!

3 BEDROOMS - 2.5 BATHS - 3646 SQ FT

ere! Nice nshine and de of Lake tbuildings, Farmhouse.

2758 SQ FT

$298,000

0

ie Wenzel

Patti Kloepping

-541-1001

815-266-4020

aging Broker

nzel@remax.net

NEW PRICE $499,000

Broker Associate pattik@remax.net

Tracey DeCrane Broker Associate

815-677-2164

traceydecrane@gmail.com

WATERFRONT LOT! BUILD YOUR OWN DREAM HOME WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS OF LAKE CARROLL. BOAT DOCK INCLUDED. Or call to see how you can have a home with this lot NOW! 2.24 ACRES

$279,000

David Peterson

2-288 Foothills

Almost on the Golf Course in Lake Carroll! Enjoy the privacy from the upper deck or lower patio of this large wooded park-like location.

2 BEDROOMS - 2 BATHS - 2016 SQ FT

NEW PRICE $247,000

Allen Krieger

Broker Associate

Broker Associate

dcpeterson@remax.net

allenkrieger@remax.net

815-238-2269

NEAR THE GOLF COURSE

815-821-2424

PHILANTHROPIC SPONSOR

A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025 | 49

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ANNOUNCEMENT

Effective May 1, 2025

TOGETHER AS ONE REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE WITH ONE GOAL

UNMATCHED CLIENT SERVICE Lake Carroll Realty, Inc. and Fawn Ridge Real Estate Co. Unite to Better Serve the Lake Carroll Community Lake Carroll Realty, Inc. and Fawn Ridge Real Estate Co. are coming together to continue providing unmatched service to real estate clients in Lake Carroll and the surrounding areas.

As part of this engagement, Tom Miller of Lake Carroll Realty will be joining Fawn Ridge Real Estate Co. as a valued member of its broker team. This transition enables us to combine our strengths, expand our market presence, and further enhance our commitment to serving both buyers and sellers throughout the Lake Carroll community.

Lake Carroll Realty Listings can now be found on the Fawn Ridge Real Estate Website and Lake Lifestyle Magazine Ad.

Contact Us 815-493-2829 info@fawnridgerealty.com www.FawnRidgeRealty.com

50 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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Amy Barnes Designated Managing Broker 815-238-8360

www.BarnesRealtyInc.com

866-493-2300

PRICE REDUCED 400 10TH STREET, MILLEDGEVILLE

17-2 LAKE CARROLL BOULEVARD, LAKE CARROLL

BEAUTIFULLY CONSTRUCTED & MAINTAINED RANCH

BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED GETAWAY!

4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Call Amy Barnes 0.51 Acre Lot | 2015 | 2 Car Garage| $310,000

802 N WASHINGTON STREET EDGE OF TOWN SETTING!

Turnkey with Pontoon Boat & 3 ATV’s 1 Acre Lot | 4+ Car Storage | $349,900

3 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | Call Aime Heldt 0.58 Acre Lot | 2 Car Garage | $129,900

VACANT LOTS

3 BR | 2 Baths | Barn | Call Aime Heldt 2.90 Acres | 2 Car Garage | $239,900

Country View | 16-38 Lake Carroll Blvd. | $1 County View | 16-170 Stonehedge Dr. | $1 Country View | 12-166 Rosewood Ln. | $5 Country View | 3-650 Fawn Ridge Dr | $10 Country View | 27-20 Norwood Dr | $2,000 Wooded | 13-102 Quail Hollow Dr. | $2,000 Wooded | 12-245 Birchbark Ct. | $3,900 Wooded | 26-18 Westwood Ct | $17,500 Country View | 31-65 Wakonda Dr. | $25,000

SOLD 4-90 BEACHCOMBER LANE, LAKE CARROLL

1-90 FARRAGUT LANE, LAKE CARROLL

PRICE REDUCED

205 IL RT 64, LANARK

NICELY UPDATED - EDGE OF TOWN!

SPECTACULAR LAKE VIEWS!

4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Call Amy Barnes 0.23 Acre Lot | 2 Car Garage | $825,000

Doug Moll Managing Broker 815-238-3626

SM-ST2239817

SOLD

25-62 COTTAGE HILL COURT, LAKE CARROLL CHARM, SPACE, LAKESIDE LIVING!

4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Baths | Call Amy Barnes 2.04 Acre Lot | 3 Car Garage | $1,249,0000

SOLD

SOLD BEAUTIFUL WATERFRONT WITH BEACH! 3 Bedroom | 2 Baths | Call Amy Barnes 0.91 Acre Lot | 2 Car Garage | $785,000

Aime Heldt Broker 815-291-8256

Trish Oppold Broker 815-541-7138

Margaret Rominski Broker 815-291-5269

25-28 OLD MILL ROAD, LAKE CARROLL WELL BUILT & BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED! 2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Call Amy Barnes 2.82 Acre Lot | 2 Car Garage | $365,000

Gary Ludwig Broker 815-541-5959

24490 Payne Rd, Shannon, IL A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025 | 51

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Check out our new website!

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7,000 sq. ft. Showroom • Competitive Prices • Dedicated Staff Largest Accessory Dept. in the Area Quality Service from Factory Trained Technicians On Water Service • Indoor Storage • Dock & Lift

Crest Carribbean

Crestliner MX 19

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In Stock Accessories & Tackle Sale Memorial Day Weekend Saturday & Sunday 7am-Noon Factory Authorized Repair Center Let Us Rig Your Boat!

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52 | A Shaw Media Publication | Lake Lifestyle | May 2025

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