In the past, we held a similar contest “Readers’ Choice” across the area, but this year, we decided to harness the power of our combined news and radio audience to create one all-encompassing contest: Sauk Valley Favorites . This year-round celebration recognizes all the wonderful people and places in the Sauk Valley and highlights the hidden gems that make our community special The people have spoken, and now it’s time to celebrate the 2025 Sauk Valley Favorites Awards!
The journey began back in November when we opened nominations in over 110 categories, spanning Home Services, Auto Service, Food & Beverage, Professional Services, Health & Beauty, Local Arts, Leisure & Entertainment, and Local Retail After receiving an incredible 5,166 nominations, the top five in each category advanced to the second phase— voting . Through January of this year, an astonishing 67,085 votes poured in, and your Sauk Valley Favorites were chosen!
In this edition, you’ll find the top three picks in each category, along with spotlights on some of your favorites as they express their gratitude for your support and share why they believe they were chosen On May 15th, we will celebrate these winners in person, and we will continue to honor them throughout the year!
Whether you’ve lived in the Sauk Valley your whole life, are new to the area, or are just visiting, we hope you find these award-winning recommendations helpful and experience for yourself why they were named the 2025 Sauk Valley Favorites Enjoy!
Jennifer Heintzelman Publisher Sauk Valley
Jennifer Heintzelman
Thank You, Sauk Valley!
We are honored to be named a Top Favorite Insurance Agency in the Sauk Valley. Your trust and support inspire us to continue providing exceptional service and comprehensive insurance solutions.
A big thank you for voting Kevin a top favorite Insurance Agent
(815) 288-1523 www.hicksinsurance.biz
Experience You Can Trust: Serving the Dixon area for over 60 years with over 100 years of collective experience.
Comprehensive Coverage: Offering a wide range of personal and business insurance options tailored to your needs.
I would recommend Gaffey to anyone.
My husband, Brandy Spencer, chose Gaffey because his mother, Jeanette, had them and she was very pleased with their services. I felt comfortable with them caring for Brandy. The staff took excellent care of him in his final days. The staff is very trustworthy and gave me guidance and helped me through a rough time. They gave me comfort and reassured me we made the right choice. Gaffey was there for us throughout everything. Brandy passed away September 2013 and they continue to check up on me after the fact. I would recommend Gaffey to anyone.
Dallas Spencer
They were wonderful!
The nursing staff was great and really helped us through a difficult time when they cared for my husband Gene. The nurses talked and comforted Gene. They wanted our feedback and acted on the suggestions we gave them. They were awesome!
Cindy Hartman
They go the extra mile and then some!
Gaffey Home Nursing & Hospice helped to take the burden off of us when they cared for my mother and father-in-law, Velda & Emmert. They are trained and know what’s best for the patient. I get a sense of calm knowing that both were in such great hands.
Margaret Zumdahl
Kim
Gaffey,
MSN RN, CEO
Lil’ Smoked Bar & Grill
First National Bank in Amboy
ONE OF THE FAVORITE HOME HEALTH CARE AGENCIES
Gaffey Health Services
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
The newborn leaving the hospital and in need of continued care, the adult recovering from joint surgery and older adults who prefer to remain in their familiar surroundings, Gaffey Home Nursing & Hospice in-home care is available to patients of all ages
Behind the business is owner nurse
Kim Gaffey, who truly understands the compassion of medical care and the benefits of in-home care She and her team often go above and beyond for patients, accompanying them in their health and life journeys too . Her staff have provided care to senior adults seeing them in their aging years and through their final days She also has stories of joy, like the staff who helped care for an infant born with birth defects, providing care for the child through life and even accompanying the child through schooling to witness his independence and ability to provide self-care as an adult
“That’s an amazing success story,” she added She launched the business in 1991 After years working in clinical settings, Gaffey saw a need in the community to provide health care in the home setting, whether that care was short-term following surgery, palliative care to provide relief during cancer treatments or long-term health care
“In your own environment, your home, you’re in control at a time when you’ve lost control for normal life . Home health care puts you back in the driver’s seat,” Gaffey said
Gaffey Health Services and Gaffey Home Nursing & Hospice employs 140 employees including certified nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses and registered nurses There are also physical therapists, speech therapists, social workers and a physician on staff A substantial number of her employees have been with her for years, creating stability for the patients who build a trusting relationship with their caregiver .
“My director of nursing has been with me all 27 years and my scheduler has been with me 25 years I’d say most have been with me around 20 years,” Gaffey said
Each week Gaffey Health Services staff complete more than 1,000 hours of care, traveling to patients in Sterling, Rock Falls and the dozen communities in a five-county, 60-mile radius
At the helm of the business, Gaffey isn’t one to sit back when there’s a task at hand . She returned to further her own education while juggling her career, business and family . A registered nurse, she completed her bachelor and master’s degrees and is nearing the completion of her doctoral degree And when it comes to her business, she goes the extra mile to obtain certifications to enable her team to elevate their ability to care for the community, caring for veterans, patients with Medicaid and the company is a recognized Community Health Accreditation Program
Since 2009 Gaffey Health Services has been certified in hospice care, tending to patients near end of life while focused on comfort and care
“When a patient is dying, we can transition from care to hospice care while maintaining the same staff,” Gaffey said . “This means the family can focus on their loved ones and not have to deal with staff changes The staff already knows the family and the patient We can really focus on providing personal care ”
With this focus and care, patient’s families wanted to show gratitude for their loved ones care . Gaffey established Gaffey Hospice Foundation, where 100 percent of the donations are distributed back to patients and families
“We’ve been blessed with some very nice donations It’s like a ‘Pay It Forward’ where we can help families with medical costs, equipment and even provide extra care, so the family can sleep at night,” Gaffey said
Kim Gaffey
ONE OF THE FAVORITE HEATING/COOLING CONTRACTORS
principles have enabled us to adapt to an ever changing industry
At the core of our success are our outstanding employees Their dedication, expertise, and commitment have been instrumental in maintaining our high standards and fostering a positive work environment Many of our team members have been with us for decades, embodying the family spirit that defines our company culture
We believe that our employees are our greatest asset . We invest in their growth through ongoing training and development opportunities This commitment not only benefits our team members but also ensures that we continue to deliver exceptional service and innovative solutions to our customers .
For more than 50 years, Loescher Heating & Air Conditioning has been a proud family-owned business, dedicated to serving our customers with honesty and reliability and a commitment to quality . Since our founding over 50 years ago, we have built a reputation rooted in trust, dependability, and a passion for excellence
As a family-owned business, we prioritize relationships— both with our customers and our employees Our longevity is a testament to the core values passed down through generations: honesty, quality work, and continued pursuit of excellence These
As we celebrate over 50 years of business, we remain committed to our founding principles and to the families, communities, and industries we serve With our talented team and strong family values guiding us, we are confident in a future filled with continued success and growth .
Thank you for being part of our journey We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our loyal customers, dedicated employees, and supportive families who have been integral to our journey Together, we look forward to many more years of excellence and community impact
Auto Sales Service & Equipment
Favorite Auto Body Shop
Slim-N-Hanks
Sauk Valley Collision
Favorite
One of the Favorites Dixon Autobody Clinic One of the Favorites
Favorite Auto Repair
Moore Tires
Favorite
Palmyra Pines Auto Service One of the Favorites Ken Nelson Auto Group One of the Favorites
Favorite Car Wash
Huffman Car Wash
Club Car Wash
Favorite
One of the Favorites The Bubble One of the Favorites
Favorite Farm Equipment Dealer
Peabudy’s
Birkey’s
Favorite
One of the Favorites Prairie State Tractor One of the Favorites
Favorite Gas Station
Casey’s
Shell
Brick House
Favorite
One of the Favorites Circle K One of the Favorites
Favorite Lawn/Yard Equipment Dealer
Ace Hardware & Outdoor Center
– Dixon
Favorite
Blain’s Farm & Fleet – Sterling One of the Favorites Frank’s Repair One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for an Oil Change
Palmyra Pines Auto Service
Moore Tires
Favorite
One of the Favorites Ken Nelson Auto Group One of the Favorites
Favorite Place to Buy Tires
Moore Tires
Palmyra Pines Auto Service
Favorite
One of the Favorites Wheelhouse, Inc. One of the Favorites
Favorite Wrecker/Towing Service
Dabney Services LLC
Slim-N-Hanks
Favorite
One of the Favorites
JR’s One of the Favorites
FAVORITE
Resthave Care & Rehabilitation was founded by local church leaders seeking a way to provide care for the community, treating each individual as though they were part of the family .
More than 60 years later that care and compassion remains at the heart of the community where residents can choose their level of care and, as they age, remain in place with a continuum of care as needs arise .
Resthave Care & Rehabilitation offers multi-tiered levels of care including assisted living, nursing care and skilled care for those in need of short-term care and rehabilitation Shortterm care is available for those recovering from surgery, an injury or illness . Resthave can provide on-site physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy whether patients require short-term or long-term care
Resthave offers hospice care on-site with its Hospice Suite that provides space for family to spend time with their loved ones in a calm, home-like atmosphere
Located in Morrison, Resthave is Medicare certified and since 2019 it has been contracted for veteran care, to provide services to the men and women who have served our country
At Resthave all residents have access to the in-house coffee bar, chapel with weekly services and a weekly Bible studies group, a library and transportation to off-campus appointments and resident outings Throughout the year the Activities Department and Quality of Life Coordinator plan resident outings, that have included Eagle viewing, enjoying lunch at a favorite restaurant or attending a community event, said Karla Burn, marketing director for Resthave Care & Rehabilitation
Some of the favorite moments are when residents welcome their families and the greater community to campus in activities throughout the year, from the Mother’s Day Tea to annual Family Fun Day in September with games for all ages, lunch and relay races too
“We used to welcome 200 visitors and it has grown to more than 600 visitors,” Burn said
Food & Beverage
Favorite Bakery
Aurelio’s Bake Shop
Rock-Star Donuts
Favorite
One of the Favorites
Folsom’s Bakery One of the Favorites
Favorite Banquet Facility
Deer Valley Banquets Favorite
McCormick Event Center One of the Favorites
Champs On Light Street One of the Favorites
Favorite Bar/Tavern
Lisa’s Brick House Bar & Grill
Uncle B’s Bar and Grill
Favorite
One of the Favorites
Shamrock Pub One of the Favorites
Favorite Bartender
Mateo Martinez –
LUXX The Restaurant Favorite
Michael Finney –
Lil’ Smoked Bar + Grill
One of the Favorites
Bob Lauritzen – The Stables Bar One of the Favorites
Favorite Caterer
Back Road Bar-B-Q Favorite
Don’s Seafood & Chicken
One of the Favorites
Luchadores Mexican Grill One of the Favorites
Favorite Deli
Arthur’s Garden Deli
Alley Loop Saloon & Deli
Favorite
One of the Favorites
Jersey Mike’s Subs One of the Favorites
Favorite Food Truck
Main Squeeze Favorite
Brito’s Grill
One of the Favorites
Shelby Raes Italian Ice & Custard One of the Favorites
Favorite Liquor Store
Liquor ‘N’ Wine Favorite
The Beverage Store
One of the Favorites
Amboy Food & Liquor One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for a First Date
LUXX The Restaurant Favorite
Candlelight Inn
One of the Favorites
Somkit One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for a Shake
Culver’s Favorite
Meusel’s Dairy Delite One of the Favorites
Dairy Queen One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for a Steak
LUXX The Restaurant Favorite
Prime Quarter Steak House One of the Favorites
Forest Inn One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Bloody Mary
Lisa’s Brick House Bar & Grill Favorite
Uncle B’s Bar and Grill One of the Favorites
3 Twelve One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Breakfast
Eggs in Paradise Favorite
Maple Pancake House One of the Favorites
Red Apple Family Restaurant One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Brunch
Fresco on First Favorite
Maple Pancake House One of the Favorites
Lisa’s Brick House Bar & Grill One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Chicken
Candlelight Inn Favorite
Sheridan’s Walton Tap One of the Favorites
Don’s Seafood & Chicken One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Coffee
Coffee Crush Favorite
7 Brew Coffee One of the Favorites
Sophie’s Café One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Dessert
Meusel’s Dairy Delite Favorite
Culver’s One of the Favorites
Dairy Queen One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Hamburgers
Shamrock Pub Favorite
Culver’s One of the Favorites
Lisa’s Brick House Bar & Grill One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Ice Cream
Meusel’s Dairy Delite Favorite
Culver’s One of the Favorites
Dairy Queen One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Lunch
Kelly’s Favorite
Arthur’s Garden Deli One of the Favorites
Uncle B’s Bar and Grill One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Margaritas
Kelly’s Favorite
El Tapatio
One of the Favorites
Willy’s Restaurant One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Martinis
Bartini’s Favorite
The Crystal Cork One of the Favorites
The Factory Pub ‘n’ Grub One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Mexican Food
Kelly’s Favorite
El Tapatio One of the Favorites
Willy’s Restaurant One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Pizza
Angelo’s Favorite
Al & Leda’s Pizzeria – Dixon One of the Favorites
Maria’s Pizza – Dixon One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Seafood
LUXX The Restaurant Favorite
Don’s Seafood & Chicken
One of the Favorites Somkit One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Tacos
La Laguna Favorite
Kelly’s One of the Favorites
Willy’s Restaurant One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Wings
JW’s 3rd Base Favorite
Uncle B’s Bar and Grill
One of the Favorites
Lil’ Smoked Bar + Grill One of the Favorites
Favorite Place to Buy Meat
The Butcher Shop Favorite
Oliver’s Corner Market
One of the Favorites Kroger One of the Favorites
Favorite Restaurant
Kelly’s Favorite
Uncle B’s Bar and Grill
One of the Favorites
Fresco on First One of the Favorites
Favorite Salad Bar
Angelo’s Favorite Forest Inn
One of the Favorites
Oliver’s Corner Market One of the Favorites
FAVORITE WRECKER/TOWING SERVICE
Dabney
Services
Having been behind the wheel hauling goods, Brian Dabney knows first-hand drivers don’t have time for a blown tire or broken-down radiator . When there’s a problem, the team at Dabney Services in Dixon is focused on towing, repairing and getting drivers back on the road and on schedule to make their deliveries on time
Brian and his wife, Jennifer, launched Dabney Services in Dixon in late 2022 Dabney Services offers towing, recovery and repairs on commercial trucks, farm equipment and even the family minivan
Brian Dabney started his own trucking business back in 2001 after he purchased his first truck, just after high school graduation While most college co-eds are sipping coffee and studying, Brian was managing his own trucking business while enrolled at Bradley University .
“I was in classes two, three days a week and driving a truck the other days,” Brian Dabney said His father had his own trucking business that he started in the 1970s
Brian Dabney made hauls to St . Louis and night runs too . After graduating with a degree in business management he continued his own truck operations Having his own share of break downs, he started plans to expand from trucking to repairs and towing
Dabney Services answers the call, from broken down commercial vehicles to rollovers that need upright and clean up
“We deal in all size wrecks and accidents and provide recovery, tow-away and cleanup for any scene,” he said
He has six tow trucks based from the Dixon location . Last year they purchased Senica Interstate Towing in LaSalle, which has about 20 tow trucks in service
He offers repairs at the shop, where his partnerships with major suppliers help him complete repairs on commercial and non-commercial vehicles quickly to get drivers back on schedule and on the move
“We’re a fairly new business but we seem to get busier every year,” Brian Dabney said .
In addition to the truck, towing and repair business, the couple are behind another Dixon area business, The Stables Bar The bar’s history goes back to 1939, Jennifer Dabney said In 2022 the couple purchased the property, with the bar on the first
floor and offices on the second floor
“It’s a very beautiful, historic building in Dixon,” Jennifer Dabney added . “We kept the name because of the history and significance of that ”
Along with its great service of drinks and food, The Stables Bar offers live music, trivia nights and even karaoke nights
Jennifer Dabney grew up in Minnesota and Alaska, coming to Dixon in the late 1990s Like Brian, she wears multiple hats helping to manage the accounting aspects of the businesses working in the second-floor offices above The Stables She loves the community’s history and the support the community has for its businesses .
“There is a lot of pride for this community,” Jennifer Dabney said “There’s history and there’s support for the businesses within the community . As we started our businesses I am grateful to see the same support and we to try give back to the community as we can ”
Health & Beauty
Favorite Assisted Living Facility
Resthave Care & Rehabilitation Favorite
Heritage Square One of the Favorites Heritage Woods of Sterling One of the Favorites
Favorite Barbershop
Ben’s Phresh Kutz Favorite
Extreme Hair and Day Spa One of the Favorites The Loop Barber Shop One of the Favorites
Favorite Beauty Salon
B’lush Salon
Favorite
Extreme Hair and Day Spa One of the Favorites Hair We “R” One of the Favorites
Favorite Chiropractic Clinic
Kirkland Family
Chiropractic Center Favorite
Rice Chiropractic One of the Favorites Rituals Chiropractic & Wellness One of the Favorites
Favorite Dental Clinic
Amboy Dental Group
Favorite
Sterling Dental One of the Favorites Exceptional Dentistry One of the Favorites
Favorite Fitness Center
Grit & Grace Fitness
Favorite
Westwood Fitness & Sports Center One of the Favorites 7:24 Fitness on the Rock One of the Favorites
Favorite Home Health Care Agency
Rock River Hospice & Home
Favorite
Gaffey Home Nursing & Hospice One of the Favorites CGH Home Health One of the Favorites
Favorite Massage/Day Spa
Relax with Sarah Favorite
Lotus Wellness Spa & Salon One of the Favorites
Extreme Hair and Day Spa One of the Favorites
Favorite Nursing Home
Heritage Square
Favorite
Resthave Care & Rehabilitation One of the Favorites Allure of Prophetstown One of the Favorites
Favorite Place to get a Manicure/Pedicure
Nails By Victoria Garcia Favorite
Extreme Hair and Day Spa One of the Favorites K Nails One of the Favorites
Favorite Place to Purchase Eyeglasses
CGH Vision Center
Favorite
Lawless Eye & Vision Center One of the Favorites Bard Optical One of the Favorites
Favorite Yoga Studio
Rhuomai Studio Favorite
Westwood Fitness & Sports Center One of the Favorites 7:24 Fitness on the Rock One of the Favorites
Home Services
Favorite Contractor/Carpenter
Boss Roofing - Siding Experts
Favorite Woodcrafters One of the Favorites
Hometown Carpentry One of the Favorites
Favorite Electrician
Weaver Electric
Hilliker Electric LLC
Favorite
One of the Favorites
Dennis Electric One of the Favorites
Favorite Fencing Company
Sterling Fence & Deck
ROCK RIVER FENCE
Favorite
One of the Favorites
Sauk Valley Fencing One of the Favorites
Favorite Flooring Company
Brothers Flooring
Boss Carpet One
Favorite
One of the Favorites
Frary Lumber One of the Favorites
Favorite Garage Door Installer
Grizzly Garage Door
Raynor Garage Doors
Favorite
One of the Favorites
Garage Door Specialists One of the Favorites
Favorite Greenhouse/Nursery
Selmi’s
Anne’s
Favorite
One of the Favorites
Nichol’s Flowers & Greenhouses One of the Favorites
Favorite Heating/Cooling Contractor
Farley’s Appliance Sales and Services
Loescher Heating & Air Conditioning
Favorite
One of the Favorites
B & D Supply One of the Favorites
Favorite Landscape Contractor
Dravis Landscape
Favorite
Distinctive Gardens, Inc. One of the Favorites
McCormick’s Nursery & Landscaping One of the Favorites
Favorite Lumber Company
Frary Lumber
Favorite
Menards One of the Favorites
R.P. Lumber One of the Favorites
Favorite Pest Control
Pest Control Consultants
Favorite
Sauk Valley Pest Control One of the Favorites
Bargain Exterminators One of the Favorites
Favorite Plumber
SPK Plumbing & Heating Favorite
Sauk Valley Plumbing and Heating One of the Favorites
Loescher Heating & Air Conditioning
Favorite Roofing Company
TCS, Total Construction Services
One of the Favorites
Favorite
Boss Roofing - Siding Experts One of the Favorites
PKC Construction One of the Favorites
Favorite Tree Service Provider
Cole’s Complete Tree Service Favorite
Hey Tree Service
One of the Favorites
Meister Tree Care One of the Favorites
ONE OF THE FAVORITE INSURANCE AGENCIES ONE OF THE FAVORITE INSURANCE AGENTS
Hicks Insurance Agency & Associates, Inc.
Whether starting a new business, buying a new car or house or ready to consider retiring, Kevin Schmitt said his team at Hicks Insurance Agency & Associates, Inc in Dixon has the tools to help each individual find the best insurance
“We talk with our clients to find the best fit for their needs and what fits their finances too,” Schmitt said “We work with personal contractors, business owners and retirees to help them navigate through insurance ”
Schmitt joined Hicks Insurance Agency 15 years ago working with Greg Hicks, son of the agency founder Millard Hicks .
“Greg was absolutely a mentor for me,” Schmitt said .
Last year Schmitt purchased the agency He welcomes the opportunity to continue the legacy of the independent agency that supports clients from across the area As an insurance broker, he and his agents can help clients find the insurance they need for health, business, life, auto, home and rental coverage as well as any additional endorsements, including supplemental Medicare coverage
It’s important to take time to review insurance coverage . Staying on top of life’s change like adding a teen driver to auto insurance, approaching retirement or purchasing life insurance Being an independent agency his team will work with multiple companies and find the best fit for each client’s needs .
“I like to sit down with clients to review insurance,” Schmitt said
The agency includes secretary Helen Henry, agents Phil Pro, Jon Sullivan and Samantha Schmitt . Located on Peoria Avenue, the office is near downtown Dixon, and the team enjoys downtown activities, from festivals to celebrations
“The parade for Petunia Fest goes right past the office so we will invite friends and family to sit with us to watch the parade,” Schmitt said .
The office is active with the Dixon Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Samantha Schmitt is an ambassador with the chamber and involved with the United Way of Lee County Board
Kevin Schmitt is also active running the Dixon Junior Dukes Program, serving as president of the youth sports club Last fall he and Sullivan were coaches for the 8th grade team, which included their sons
Whether its work, sports or spending time with family and friends, Schmitt said Dixon is home .
“It’s not too big, not too small, right in the middle,” Schmitt said “It’s a great place to raise a family and own a small business . ”
ONE OF THE FAVORITE AUTO BODY SHOPS
Sauk Valley Collision
Experience, expertise and an eye for meticulous repairs is what sets Sauk Valley Collision above the rest
When it comes to collision repairs, owners Ehren and Jessica Giblin and their team of technicians take each vehicle on an individual basis to ensure it receives the attention it deserves, whether it’s a small dent, hail damage or extensive body work following a collision
The shop handles body work, glass repairs, paint and mechanical repairs . Sauk Valley Collision works with all insurance companies Giblin said he understands insurance can have challenges and he’s there to help clients navigate the process, from start to finish, documenting the damage, sending repair estimates and
making sure the work is done correctly .
“I work for the customer,” Giblin said “I fix the car as if it were my own I’m very meticulous on what I do My whole team is meticulous . ”
Every repair requires attention to detail The shop works on cars, trucks, minivans and can handle custom paint requests for motorcycles .
Giblin dabbled in amateur auto racing back in the day and today, stays connected with his business sponsoring three drivers this season including a driver who competes in drag racing and a young dirt-bike racer too . Giblin said he tries to give back to the community, supporting local sports teams and Dixon High School Opened in 2021, Giblin was
born and raised in Dixon He got his start in the business as a high school student with a job at a local shop, learning from hands-on work After spending several years in the Beloit area, he returned to Dixon to launch his own collision repair business
Showing life can truly come full circle, for the past four years he’s welcomed high school students from Dixon High School to spend time in
the shop learning the art of collision repairs and getting their own hands-on experience
Local Arts, Leisure, & Entertainment
Favorite Campground
Crow Valley Campground
Favorite
Ruffit Park Campground One of the Favorites
Woodhaven Lakes One of the Favorites
Favorite Church and Where
Immanuel Lutheran Dixon
Favorite
St. Patrick’s Catholic Church Dixon One of the Favorites
Harvest Time Bible Church One of the Favorites
Favorite Community Event
Petunia Fest
Amboy Depot Days
Favorite
One of the Favorites
Fiesta Days One of the Favorites
Favorite Dance Studio
Eastman School of Dance
Favorite
Cassie’s Dance Academy One of the Favorites
Center Stage Dance Studio Dixon One of the Favorites
Favorite Event Venue
Dixon Elks Lodge 779
Favorite
The Mercantile One of the Favorites
Deer Valley Banquets One of the Favorites
Favorite Golf Course
Deer Valley Golf Club Favorite
Shady Oaks Country Club One of the Favorites
Timber Creek Golf Course One of the Favorites
Favorite Local Politician
Joe McDonald Favorite
Bradley Fritts One of the Favorites
Tony McCombie One of the Favorites
Favorite Local Radio Personality
Sam Ramirez – River Country Favorite
Patrick McPherson – WLLT One of the Favorites Marty at the Mic – WLLT One of the Favorites
Favorite Local Radio Station
River Country 101.7
Favorite
WLLT 94.3 One of the Favorites
WIXN AM 1460/FM 95.1 One of the Favorites
Favorite Park
Lowell Park Favorite
White Pines Forest State Park One of the Favorites
Centennial Park Rock Falls One of the Favorites
Favorite Photographer
You In Photos By Nanc Inc. Favorite
Slater Photography One of the Favorites
Josie Anderson Photography One of the Favorites
Favorite Place for Lotto Tickets
Casey’s
Shell
Circle K
Favorite Place to Play Slots
Abby’s
K’s Korner
Favorite
One of the Favorites
One of the Favorites
Favorite
One of the Favorites
Ellie’s Gaming Café One of the Favorites
Favorite Place to Take Kids
Selmi’s
My Play Village
Favorite
One of the Favorites
Plum Hollow Family Center One of the Favorites
Favorite Recreation Spot
Plum Hollow Family Center Favorite
Westwood Fitness & Sports Center One of the Favorites
Morrison-Rockwood State Park One of the Favorites
Frary Lumber Brothers Flooring
Local Retail
Favorite Antique Shop
Showplace Antiques & Treasures Favorite
Waterfront Gifts & Antiques One of the Favorites
Victorian Grace Antiques & Accents One of the Favorites
Favorite Appliance Store
Farley’s Appliance Sales and Services Favorite
Knie Appliance & Furniture One of the Favorites Clover Hills Appliance One of the Favorites
Favorite Convenience Store
Casey’s Favorite Circle K One of the Favorites Shell One of the Favorites
Favorite Furniture Store
Harold’s Furniture Favorite
Knie Appliance & Furniture One of the Favorites
D & E Furniture One of the Favorites
Favorite Gift Store
Golden Key Gifts & Candle Co. Favorite
Pam’s Hallmark One of the Favorites Rustic Roots One of the Favorites
Favorite Hardware Store
Ace Hardware & Outdoor Center – Dixon Favorite
Grummert’s Hardware One of the Favorites
Blain’s Farm & Fleet – Sterling One of the Favorites
Favorite Jewelry Store
Venier Jewelers Inc. Favorite
KAY Jewelers One of the Favorites
Trein’s Jewelry One of the Favorites
Favorite Pet Supply Store
PetSmart – Sterling Favorite
Blain’s Farm & Fleet – Sterling One of the Favorites Pet Supplies Plus – Dixon One of the Favorites
Favorite Place to Buy Flowers/Plants
Lundstrom Florist Favorite
Selmi’s One of the Favorites Flowers, Etc. One of the Favorites
Favorite Place to Buy Men’s Clothing
Kaleel’s Clothing & Printing Favorite
Blain’s Farm & Fleet – Sterling One of the Favorites
Kohl’s One of the Favorites
Favorite Place to Buy Shoes
Shoe Sensation Favorite
Modern Shoe Shop One of the Favorites Stone Bridge Running One of the Favorites
Favorite Place to Buy Women’s Clothing
Mud & Moo Boutique Favorite
Revive Boutique One of the Favorites Maurices One of the Favorites
Favorite Second Hand/Resale Shop
Angel Treasures Favorite
Only the Best
One of the Favorites
Rack City Thrift Shoppe One of the Favorites
Travel Consultants of Dixon
Professional Services
Favorite Auctioneer
Youngs Auction Service Favorite
Lenny Bryson One of the Favorites
Lyle Hopkins One of the Favorites
Favorite Bank
Sauk Valley Bank
Favorite
The First National Bank in Amboy One of the Favorites
Sterling Federal Bank One of the Favorites
Favorite Children’s Daycare
Dixon Family YMCA, Lovett
Child Development Center Favorite
Julie’s Pre-School & Day Care One of the Favorites
Sterling Rock Falls Child Care One of the Favorites
Favorite Credit Union
Select Employees Credit Union Favorite
Cornerstone Credit Union One of the Favorites
1st Gateway Credit Union One of the Favorites
Favorite Divorce Attorney
Darla Foulker – Ehrmann
Gehlbach Badger & Considine, LLC
Favorite
The Mertes Law Firm, P.C. One of the Favorites
Kelli D. Walker, Attorney at Law, P.C. One of the Favorites
Favorite Financial Advisor
Todd Haas, CFP® –
Edward Jones Favorite
Chad Nicklaus –
Nicklaus Financial Service
One of the Favorites
Chad Weigle –Ameriprise Financial One of the Favorites
Favorite Financial Planner
Edward Jones Favorite
Nicklaus Financial Service One of the Favorites
Thrivent Financial One of the Favorites
Favorite Funeral Home
McDonald Funeral Home & Crematory Favorite
Preston-Schilling
Funeral Home, Ltd.
One of the Favorites
Jones Funeral Home One of the Favorites
Favorite Insurance Agency
State Farm Favorite
Hicks Insurance Agency & Associates, Inc. One of the Favorites
Country Financial One of the Favorites
Favorite Insurance Agent
Chris Hammitt – State Farm Favorite
Kevin Schmitt –
Hicks Insurance Agency One of the Favorites
Shay Brown – State Farm One of the Favorites
Favorite Law Firm
Law Office of Paul Whitcombe Favorite
Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger & Considine, LLC One of the Favorites
The Mertes Law Firm, P.C. One of the Favorites
Favorite Pet Groomer
Furology Pet Spa Favorite
A Cut Above Grooming Salon One of the Favorites
The Pup House One of the Favorites
Wizard of Paws One of the Favorites
Favorite Real Estate Agent
Shawney Evans – Sauk Valley Properties Favorite Chandra and Ryne –
RE/MAX Sauk Valley One of the Favorites
JD Gieson –
RE/MAX of Rock Valley One of the Favorites
Favorite Real Estate Company
Sauk Valley Properties Favorite
RE/MAX Sauk Valley One of the Favorites
Bardier & Ramirez Real Estate One of the Favorites
Favorite Tanning Salon
Westwood Fitness & Sports Center Favorite
LA Tan One of the Favorites
Splash of Color Tanning Spa One of the Favorites
Favorite Tattoo Shop
Raven Tattoo Favorite
Creative Freedom Ink One of the Favorites
Skin Deep Tattoo & Piercing One of the Favorites
Favorite Tax Preparer
Wiemken’s Tax Service Favorite
Davis Gisi One of the Favorites
Propheter Financial One of the Favorites
Favorite Travel Agency
Destinations Travel Services Favorite Travel Consultants of Dixon One of the Favorites Every Little Thing (ELT) Travel One of the Favorites
Favorite Veterinary Clinic
River Ridge Animal Hospital Favorite
Northern Illinois
Veterinary Services
One of the Favorites
Morrison Veterinary Clinic One of the Favorites
Crow Valley Campground
FAVORITE REAL ESTATE AGENT
Shawney Evans FAVORITE REAL ESTATE COMPANY
Sauk Valley Properties
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments most people will ever make — and the team at Sauk Valley Properties, LLC, Wilson & Associates is ready to guide clients through every step, from listing to closing With experience, tools, and deep local roots, they make real estate feel personal and professional
At Sauk Valley Properties, clients aren’t passed off to a nameless voice behind a desk They work with real people who know the real estate market — and know the community This isn’t just a place to work; it’s home The agency’s seven full-time team members live, work, and play right here in Sauk Valley
“We know this community inside and out,” says Beth Wilson, managing broker, owner, and seasoned real estate veteran with 27 years of experience She didn’t just build a brokerage — she built a family
“Our agents are here for the long haul,” Wilson adds . “We support each other like family, and that translates to better service for our clients ”
Among that family is Shawney Evans, recognized as the Sauk Valley Favorite Realtor, bringing three decades of experience and a reputation for going the extra mile . The team also includes Angie Harrison, Gary Davey, Melissa Plock, Wendy Olson, Julia Slagter, and Curt Repass — each bringing unique skills, but a shared focus: the client
When you call Sauk Valley Properties or click on their website, you’re getting more than just information — you’re connecting with a full-time team committed to helping you navigate every step of your real estate journey
Whether it’s a first home or a seventh, Sauk Valley Properties agents stay engaged through the entire process — from viewings and negotiations to securing the best rates and finding the right lenders Wilson says some of her most rewarding moments have been helping multiple generations of the same family find their homes .
The team’s strong local knowledge means they can point clients to trusted service providers, from banks to home repair contractors . They’re not just helping people buy and sell homes — they’re connecting them to the fabric of the community .
Life’s big transitions — like job relocations, divorces, or selling a parent’s home — can be tough The Sauk Valley Properties team meets those moments with compassion, guiding clients through with a steady, understanding hand .
As an independent agency with access to the nation’s largest MLS system, Sauk Valley Properties offers the reach of a national firm while keeping dollars circulating locally Whether it’s
advertising with local businesses or supporting community sports teams and schools, Wilson and her team believe in investing back into their hometown
And their commitment doesn’t end with real estate You’ll find Sauk Valley Properties agents volunteering with local organizations, coaching little league teams, and showing up for the community they call home
“We don’t just work here — we live here We’re part of the Sauk Valley community,” Wilson says .
ONE OF THE FAVORITE ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES
Heritage Woods of Sterling
Heritage Woods of Sterling isn’t just a Supportive Living community- it’s a true haven for care, connection, and comfort With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and dedicated team, it offers residents more than just a place to live; it offers a place to thrive You’ll be proud to call Heritage Woods of Sterling your new home . From engaging activities and delicious meals to personalized care and heartfelt friendships, every detail here is designed with dignity and joy in mind Families find peace of mind, and residents find a vibrant, loving community
Heritage Woods of Sterling is an affordable assisted lifestyle community, offering private apartment-style housing and services for seniors 65 and older . We serve seniors of all income levels, including those that receive financial assistance through Medicaid . Each senior that we compassionately serve is provided with individualized, personcentered support services to help them preserve their independence, privacy, dignity and autonomy, while emphasizing health and wellness Support services provided include intermittent nursing care, routine health assessments, emergency call system availability, social/ recreational programming, health promotion and exercise programs, medication oversight and assistance, personal care, laundry assistance, housekeeping assistance, maintenance services, and resident choice driven meals, served restaurant style
For those reasons and so many more, Heritage Woods of Sterling has earned its spot as one of the favorites in the Sauk Valley community “We would like to thank the community for your recognition and support ”
FAVORITE
Slim-N-Hanks Auto Body Shop has been offering auto body repair, auto glass and towing services to Sterling, Dixon and the Sauk Valley area since 1962 Family owned and operated for over 50 years, we specialize in complete auto repair and refinishing We understand how stressful an accident can be and we can serve as a liaison between you and the insurance company to make the claims process easier We also work with Dixon area car rental agencies to secure a car while you wait for repairs to be completed . Our body shop in Dixon offers courteous, personalized service for every vehicle we work on
From dent removal to auto glass repair, our auto technicians are prepared to exceed your expectations with high quality service and customer satisfaction that can’t be beat! Our experienced auto body technicians also provide windshield replacement for any type of vehicle, including compact cars, sedans, trucks, and SUVs We have the equipment to precisely cut the glass to size and quickly install the windshield We will clean up any broken glass before we complete the installation . If you need new side windows, we can install those as well
