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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

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Open-door policies Even though a pandemic forced people to be careful about one kind of touch, a Dixon insurance agent took pride in being able to continue offering another kind: The personal touch

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE | Shaw Local Media DIXON – For American Family Insurance Agent Bob Maltry, work isn’t about doing what’s easy. It’s about doing what’s right for the client.

That’s why last March, when many offices closed their doors and sent people home to work during the pandemic, he made the decision to keep his office lights on, even if he did close the doors for safety reasons. Each day he’d drive to the office where he took phone calls and as needed, met with a client in person to exchange papers or process a payment.

Bob Maltry/American He could have worked from home. He could have Family Insurance turned on his laptop, worked in sweatpants, and told 709 Brinton Ave., Dixon his customers accustomed to paying in person they 815-288-4206 could use an online portal. But that’s not his style.

Online: https://agent.amf “A lot of agents closed their offices. I never closed am. com/bob-maltry/il/dixmy office,” Maltry said. “I closed the doors, but if a clion/709-n-brinton-ave/ ent knocked or told me they were on their way I’d wait for them, or meet them at the curb to take a payment, process a receipt.”

Call him a little old-fashioned, but Maltry is the kind of agent who knows his clients by name. He knows who prefers to pay in person, and when they schedule their visits. Some of his older clients still prefer to pay their premiums in person, and he wasn’t about to just send them to a website.

“Many of my clients have been with me for 26 years now, and I wanted to make sure I took good care of them,” Maltry said.

It was a difficult year. Maltry was saddened to learn of the passing of some of his clients, including some who succumbed to Covid-19.

Maltry had been looking forward to celebrating his business’ 25th anniversary last year. He still plans to celebrate, but thinks maybe he’ll wait a year or two to mark the occasion.

Besides, he finds his workload hasn’t quieted down in the past year. Clients still need insurance for a new driver, or add-on life insurance. They continue to buy and sell homes, and many have taken the time this past year to tackle projects around the house, finishing a basement, adding a deck. These and many other significant home improvements warrant a call to your home insurance agent.

“You want to make sure you have the proper coverage to cover your home in case anything should happen,” Maltry said.

While he surely misses seeing so many of his clients in his office, he has enjoyed the waves as they walk by, and he’s had company from his son, Austin, who joins him at times to lend a hand in the office.

And for those who haven’t stopped to wave hello or greet Maltry in person, they may be surprised when they do. Maltry said that after seeing himself in a photo last year, where he weighed in at around 300 pounds, it was the spark he needed to commit to a healthier life. He found a program, stuck with it and today he is down to 219 pounds and feeling better than he has in awhile.

It’s been a process, but just as he takes great care of his clients, he has committed to taking care of himself too, so that he can be sure to be around to make sure his clients are well-taken care of in good times and in times of need.

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Don’t tell Bob Maltry that doing business with a personal touch is old-fashioned; for him the old fashion has never gone out of style. He’d rather not shuffle customers off to a website or have them climb a voice mail tree to do business. He prefers face time with his clients, even if that means putting his face behind a mask. “Many of my clients have been with me for 26 years now, and I wanted to make sure I took good care of them,” Maltry said.

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Whether it’s the latest in TV tech, or gadgets to make your home smarter and safer, customers get the kind of reception they’re looking for at Northern Illinois TV

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE Shaw Local Media

Submitted

Whether it’s dishing out satellite service, making your home smarter, installing an antenna, or performing one of their many other services, one thing remains constant for the crew at Northern Illinois TV: quality customer service.

POLO – At Northern Illinois TV, owner Dan Massey and his team are doing more than just adjusting antennas and mounting televisions to walls.

The business offers several services, including internet and wi-fi set-ups, satellite dish installation, installing security systems, and helping customers with Smart Home features that let them control thermostats and doors from their phones or computers.

At the heart of the business is customer service, Massey said. That means spending Dan Massey time to work with customers to understand their needs, help them find the right equipment, and answer the call for service repairs and adjustments.

“If you do a good job, customers are happy,” he said.

Massey, who was born and raised in the Sauk Valley, said he’s seen some incredible developments during his more than 30 years in the industry.

About 10 years ago Massey decided to branch out on his own and establish his business. Today, his operation has grown to include office manager Judy Weems and technicians Jacob Reitzel and Luke Runte.

While the latest Smart TV’s are fairly simple to set up, Massey said he enjoys helping customers who want a custom installation, say, above a fireplace or mounted on a wall with cords and components tucked out of site inside a wall.

“We provide the next level of installa-

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SVM PROGRESS Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

Staying connected

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

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CONNECTED cont’d from page 3 As folks opt to cut the cable cord, Massey gets more requests for antenna installations. With the right antenna, customers can still watch their favorite local programming, news and weather. This includes options for a free-standing tower to accommodate the customer who doesn’t want the antenna on their roof.

Calls for alarms and security systems remain a popular request, Massey said, and components can be part of a Smart Home set-up, such as doorbells with video cameras. Massey said that in addition to the peace of mind they provide, there are added benefits such as knowing when a package arrives, or being able to open the door for a child after school.

Other Smart Home options include thermostats that can control a home’s Northern Illinois TV temperatures remotely.

121 N. Division, Polo Massey and his team can answer Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 questions and help guide customers To request a consultationp.m. to the best products for their homes, appointment or learn mo , book an re about serand then take care of the installation. vices call Massey and his “A big part of our role is selling the 815-946-4389 or visit the team at webs customer the right product,” Massey www.northerntv.com. ite says.

Find Northern Illinois TV He adds that he and his team stay up on Facebook on the latest equipment and features through seminars and classes.

“We are constantly going to continuing education,” Massey says. “We want to be ready to assist our customers as the times change and their needs change.”

Northern Illinois TV serves customers in a 25- to 30-mile radius of Polo, though Massey said that with referrals he can go farther. It’s all part of his focus on providing great customer service. He said that he enjoys leaving a job satisfied in knowing his customer can enjoy the products he’s sold them and the service he’s provided.

“It’s neat to see people excited with their purchase,” Massey says.

“And we do so many different things. Every day is different and no two days are the same and that keeps everything fresh.”

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Whether you’re a couple in love or parents-to-be, a birthday boy or a retiree – whatever the age, whatever the occasion, if you’ve got a reason to celebrate, the owners of The Loft have the perfect place

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SVM PROGRESS Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

STERLING – Weddings and birthdays, baby showers and retirement parties are just some of the celebrations hosted at The Loft at K’s Korner, explains owner Marion Younger.

She and her husband, Andy, transformed the former dairy barn into a beautiful, large open space able to accommodate small, intimate gatherings as well as large parties of up to 300 guests.

Younger recalls when the barn that became The Loft was able to hold 10,000 bales of hay and was located farther up U.S. Route 30. The structure was moved to its current location in 2014 and underwent a large-scale renovation that was completed in 2015. Today it retains the beauty and rustic look of a dairy barn with modern amenities, including climate control to provide heat and air conditioning and an elevator, making it easy for guests to access the area and move equipment and food easily into the entertainment area.

“We want all our guests to be comfortable,” Younger said, adding the space is wheelchair accessible.

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

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A one-stop Shop Looking for fresh meat and poultry?

Sides? Dessert? You’ll find a full-course meal and more at The Butcher Shop

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE Shaw Local Media More shelves and more freezers can only mean more great things to find at The Butcher Shop, with locations in Rock Falls and Sterling.

This winter has been a busy time for the business as it added space at both locations to be able to stock more products, said Lori Walker, manager of the Rock Falls location.

The Sterling location, which opened in 2019, has doubled in size and now has a full-service kitchen on site for staff to prepare items. Throughout the year customers can find items such as stuffed chicken breasts wrapped in bacon, lasagna, chicken pot pies, shrimp skewers, jalapeno poppers, stuffed mushrooms and much more.

The Rock Falls location, which opened in 2017, has expanded as well with additional floor and freezer space.

Walker said the aim is to be able to offer the same great foods, from beef, pork, chicken, seafood, sides, salads and at both locations.

The Butcher Shop owner Dale Pfundstein has always envisioned the shop as a place that could provide customers with a fresh meat from the Pfundstein family cattle farm just north of Sterling. Pfundstein raises Black Angus cattle, which are fed a corn and hay ration.

SHOP cont’d on page 7

K’S cont’d from page 5 The elevator can be a great asset when moving tables, chairs and a sound equipment, Younger said.

Though it used to be a barn, today the venue retains a sense of rustic elegance, and many wedding couples enjoy using the beautiful wooden, winding staircase to stage photos for their special occasion.

The Loft space is great for those who want to cusK’s Korner tomize the room design. Clients supply their own 130 30 Ga lt Road, Sterling tables, chairs and decorations. Younger said she has a 815-626-2988 list of vendors to help in planning. She has seen couHours: 6 a.m.-1 a.m. daily ples create romantic space for their wedding ceremony Online: Find K’s Korner and reception and she has helped guests host birthday on Facebook parties for children, complete with a bounce house – located inside The Loft space.

“It’s always wonderful to see how each party is set up, and the weddings are so beautiful,” Younger said.

While the celebrations can vary, Younger is adamant the venue space shouldn’t take up the entire event budget. The Loft room rental is $300 per day and that price includes retaining a bartender to serve guests.

Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@shawmedia.com And while advance reservations are recommended, Younger said Kyle Cooper spins Kinley Grace, 3, during the Daddy/Daughter Dance at The Loft on Feb. 13. It was a packed she has taken a few last-minute reservations, even helping a couple house – make that packed barn – when The Loft hosted the event. “My bartender and I were talking about host their small wedding with just several days of planning. doing something for Valentine’s Day, and we thought a Daddy/Daughter Dance would be a nice thing to Clients can visit The Loft space during K’s Korner operating hours do,” K’s Korners owner Marion Younger said. Proceeds from the dance were donated to benefit the PADS or book an appointment to meet with Younger to reserve and plan use shelter. The event was so well received that a second date on Sunday was added. of the space.

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SHOP cont’d from page 6

From left: The Butcher Shop staff includes Lori Walker, manager of the Rock Falls location, owner Dale Pfundsten, and Jill Stange, the Sterling store manager.

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7 SVM PROGRESS Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

At The Butcher Shop the meat is cut daily and the shop offers special cuts or hard-to-find items. Steaks can be sliced to order, from a thinner sandwich cut to a thick and juicy inch-and-a-half cut. Customers can also get roasts from one to five inches and more. They vacuum pack the meat for freshness and extra shelf life.

For special or custom orders, they request customers call ahead to save time.

For people who have the freezer space at home, Pfundstein offers a special quarter-beef or half-beef processed onsite from one of his cattle. Included in this option customers can select their cuts of meats with choices including ribeye and porterhouse steaks, roasts, stew meat and ground or pattied hamburger.

For those who prefer regular trips to the shop, there are always plenty of specials as well as the staples: fresh and frozen cuts of beef, pork, chicken and seafood. Shoppers can often create an entire meal with an array of sides, from deli salads to frozen veggies and potato sides as well as shelves stocked with marinades, grill rubs and hamburger and hot dog buns.

The Butcher Shop And don’t forget to leave room for dessert, like fresh-made 3309 W. Rock Falls Road pies, which never seem to last long on the shelves as customers /U.S. Route 30 in Rock Falls, clamor to take them home, Walker said.

2501 E. Lincolnway in Ste or She said the staff works hard to provide a variety of items rlin g.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m for customers, including some locally made products. .

Mo nd ay through Friday, 9 a.m. to “We sell items from Main Street Meat Market, such as frozen 4 days and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m p.m. Saturvegetables and sides, meat sticks and snack packs,” Walker . Sundays.

Online at butchershopllc.c said. “Or try the Yaeger homemade and handmade items, includom or find it on Facebook. ing jellies, salsas, pickles and spreads. We’re constantly bringing in new products for our customers to try.”

There are even delicious options for your four-legged family members: Tuff Dog Bakery’s treats and cakes are sold at both locations.

Gift cards are available and there is a reward program for customers.

The Butcher Shop also offers fundraising packages, a great way for local organizations and schools to raise money.

“We have a large selection of fundraising products that have become very popular,” Walker said.

Customers can shop in person or place advance orders online, and the shop offers curbside delivery.

You can also follow the The Butcher Shop on Facebook for store specials and recipes.

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

Customers after their own heart There are always regulars who stop by the Dixon VFW for friendship, fellowship and fun times — but when there’s a chance the queen may stop by for a visit, it’s all hands on deck

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE | Shaw Local Media DIXON – When it comes to Thursday nights in Dixon, VFW Post 540 is the place to be.

From the delicious food to the friendly faces and conversations that fill the room, friends and neighbors enjoy hanging out each week at the post.

They also enjoy a chance to win big – assuming, of course, they run into her majesty the queen.

VFW cont’d on page 9

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VFW cont’d from page 8

ing space for a special occasion. From the bright ceiling tiles to the bathroom updates the building’s event space has been given a fresh look in recent years. The 75-inch TV is great for watching sports or to play a slide show during its use in the banquet hall.

Spangler said there’s still more to be done, but thanks to the raffle the post can continue with updates and fixes.

VFW cont’d on page 10

SVM file photo

When the Dixon VFW kicked off its first Queen of Hearts fundraiser back in April 2015, a tumbler you could hold in two hands, held here in 2016 by member Paul Spangler, was big enough for the raffle tickets, but by March 2016 the Post had to upgrade to a bigger tumbler for the tickets, which eventually paid out a six-figure grand prize.

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9 SVM PROGRESS Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

The Queen of Hearts is a progressive raffle that’s proven popular with guests, and it’s no wonder: the raffle can really get your heart pounding, with jackpots even reaching six figures.

The game begins with 54 cards, under which nestle all four suits plus the two jokers found in a standard deck of playing cards. People buy tickets, and on the back of each one, they put their name, phone number, and the number under which they think the queen is lurking. Each week, the tickets are put in a barrel and if the winning ticket also has the correct card, the holder wins the pot.

If no one gets the correct card, another drawing is held the next week, and the pot continues to grow.

“We’ve had jackpots of over $300,000 that have gone to local winners,” Post Commander Melissa Spangler said.

Spangler took up her role as commander in July 2019 after serving the two years as Quarter Master in charge of the post’s finances. According to local records she is the first female commander for the post. Originally from California, Spangler joined the Army in 2003 in the Medical Services Corp. She was deployed to Iraq twice as well as stationed in Germany and San Antonio.

Her husband, Paul, also a veteran, brought her back to his hometown of Dixon and the two became involved in the VFW Post. For the Spanglers, the VFW is more than a place to serve others and the community; it’s also a way for them to regain the camaraderie they enjoyed during their time in the service.

“This gives us a sense of belonging,” Spangler says. “I was looking for a sense of camaraderie and I found it with my brothers in arms. There are some great individuals and this is a great group.”

It’s also a group that’s worked hard to renovate the building space to make it more inviting to the public, whether they’re just stopping by for a short visit or rent-

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

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VFW cont’d from page 9 The raffle has also provided a way for the VFW members to give back to the community, with more than $220,000 given to charities during the last few years, Spangler said. This includes supporting organizations such as the PADS Shelter and the local Shop with a Sheriff program, to name a few.

“It’s not just helping veterans, it’s helping our community because our veterans VFW Post 540 live in our 1560 Franklin Grove Road, Dixon commu815-288-5165 nity,” SpanOnline: Online: Go to https:// gler said. vfw540.org or Find “Dixon While the VFW Post 540” on Faceraffle has book helped draw more people to the post, none of it would be possible without the incredible work of its members who volunteer and the Auxiliary members, who help in the kitchen and are known for making tempting desserts.

So whether it’s the lure of $1.25 domestic drafts on Tuesday or the jovial sense of community and excitement over a chance to win the Queen of Hearts raffle on a Thursday, Spangler invites everyone to stop in and join the fun.

“These are all great guys and it’s a great organization,” Spangler said. “It’s an organization I’m proud to be a part of.”

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To play ...

Queen of Hearts tickets cost $5 for six; they are available at VFW Post 540, 1560 Franklin Grove Road in Dixon, from 2 p.m.

Monday through Friday and from 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday until closing time, which depends on events and attendance.

Drawings normally are held Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., with the last ticket sold at 7:25 p.m.

The winner, who need not be present at the drawing, will get 70 percent of the pot. Of the remaining 30 percent, half goes to charity and the club keeps the rest.

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When a pandemic was pulling the wheels off some businesses, a local appliance store kept on rolling, with its focus on keeping its sales floor stocked and its customers satisfied

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE Shaw Local Media

Wayne Walker (above) and the Clover Hills crew know the importance of going the distance for their customers The — even the social distance. g pin kee to ted mit com is staff e saf and le customers comfortab ries ive del ls, cal e vic during ser and on the sales floor.

Brandy

STERLING — In the more than 20 years Wayne Walker has been in the appliance business he’s seen trends and styles change, but his commitment to customer service remains at the core of his business.

The promise of customer service was truly tested this past year as Clover Hills Appliance weathered the roller coaster of the pandemic. Like many small businesses, Walker shut his doors last March, uncertain what would happen.

When the state deemed the appliance store an essential business that would be allowed to reopen, Walker didn’t just turn on the lights and unlock the doors. He and his buying team went to work stocking merchandise, knowing that while times may seem uncertain, people would still need a fridge, stove and other essential appliances.

“We kept on rolling,” Walker said.

At a time when some customers have heard from other stores that items are unavailable or there will be a long wait time to fulfill an order, the Clover Hills Clover Hills team has worked hard to 2400 N. Locus St., Sterlin g. keep items in stock and 815-625-8529 available for delivery.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mo “We not only have items, Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.mnday. on we have choices,” Walker Saturdays. said. “We’re here and we Online: Visitcloverhillsap pli have the inventory.” ance.com or find it on From freezers to fridges, Facebook washing machines and dishwashers, Clover Hills has been able to provide for its customers and take care of those who are dedicated to taking care of others.

“For the hospital workers and health care providers, we not only put up hearts in our windows to show appreciation, we made sure their orders went to the front of the line so they had what they needed, so they could focus on their work of taking care of others,” Walker said.

Clover Hills Appliance continues to provide quality service with all safety measures that the Covid restrictions called for, from appliance and mattresses deliveries to repair services for the brands it carries as well as other brands.

Whether it’s replacing a broken down appliance or helping a customer redesign their kitchen, Walker and his team are ready to answer questions and help them find the right appliance — and that includes helping those who are looking forward to the return of the outdoor cooking season, just around the corner.

Walker said some the most popular items have been the Traeger wood-fired grills.

“People are spending more time at home, more time cooking and looking for new things to try,” Walker said — and no matter what they’re looking for, Clover Hills will help them find it.

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Submitted photos

Brian Tim

Jordan

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Andrew

SVM PROGRESS Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

Their stock in trade

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The team at Faith Assembly of Grand Detour didn’t let a pandemic keep them from doing God’s work.

When families searched for a sense of fellowship during troubled times, the church led the way

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE | ShawLocal Media In his nearly 31 years of life in ministry, nothing had quite prepared Pastor Jon Marx for a pandemic and the challenges that came with it.

As he looks back at the past year and its challenges, he sees the ways his leadership team shined and continued to provide opportunities for the members of Faith Assembly of Grand Detour to gather, to pray and to find fellowship with each other even while wearing masks and maintaining a little social distance.

“All in all it has gone very well and we’ve even grown, with some new families joining us,” Marx said.

Like all houses of worship in the state, Faith Assembly of Grand Detour closed its doors last March. But it didn’t close its ministry. It moved its weekly Sunday services to a video stream. And in June, it saw an opportunity to re-open, but realized it would require changes in the numbers of attendees.

FAITH cont’d on page 13

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

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Keeping the faith

FAITH cont’d from page 12

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Photo by Sara Ortgiesen

Faith Assembly of Grand Detour has been part of the community for more than 100 years.

Today, the church’s mission is intertwined with its school. Faith Assembly’s Pastoral Leadership Team includes, back row from left: Phil Arellano, Youth Ministry; Lead pastor Jon Marx; Ryan Bivins, Worship Ministry; front row: Cindy Drew, Church Development; and Jordan Bivins, Children’s Ministry.

13 SVM PROGRESS Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

“We decided to have two services on Sunday, which is something we hadn’t done since the ‘80s,” Marx said. “It went really well, with almost identical attendance in two services as we had previously had in our one service.”

It may not have been the usual Sunday service, Marx explained, as they had to make a few changes, shortening the length of the services and foregoing the post-service fellowship, but the ability to return to small gatherings and bring members together brought a sense of joy and calm to those who attended.

Among those happy to see people in person is one of the newest licensed members of the congregation, Pastor Phil Arellano. Known as simply Pastor Phil, he is the son of Pastor Liandro Arellano, a previous pastor of the small church. Phil grew up in the church, but admits he wasn’t much of a role model as a young adult. Looking back he was more of a rebellious teen and he said it was around age 17 that he found his desire and calling to be more involved in the church.

Faith Assembly of Today he is a youth minister and Grand Detour said it is a role that fits well as he can 7887 S. Green St. relate to the teens and young adults, 815-652-4488 struggling between their desire for indeOnline: Find it on Facebo ok pendence and a sense of belonging with or go to www.faithothers. granddetour.org “I feel like I’m uniquely able to give teenagers a lot of grace,” Pastor Phil said.

He is married to Jessica, who he met through the church and is the father of two young daughters.

Seeing those who grew up in the church step into roles of leadership brings a smile to Pastor Marx as he welcomes their fresh ideas and their desire to serve.

“We’ve been blessed to have a nice gelling of different age groups who share the vision,” Marx said.

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

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Putting a Value on hometown service Driven by a desire to keep people from having to drive out of town for routine lab work, a Dixon entrepreneur put her skills to the test — and the results? Success

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE Shaw Local Media DIXON – It all started with a simple idea: Providing quick, efficient blood tests in a safe environment close to home, said Caroline Arnould. She was watching her own parents make the drive to Rockford just for blood work and she knew there needed to be a better way.

With that inspiration Arnould launched Value Lab and opened the doors to provide Dixon-area residents with low-cost lab work options within the community.

“We allow patients to take their healthcare in their own hands,” Arnould said. “We have caught leukemia in the early stages and helped another patient confirm a Lyme disease diagnoses.”

With the idea to manage her own lab, Arnould turned to Sauk Valley Community College’s Small Business Development Center. “They are a free resource to anyone with an idea,” Arnould said. “It is an absolute blessing to the area.”

With support from the Small Business Development Center, Arnould took her idea on paper and created a business plan, found a location, applied for the necessary licenses, and obtained a business loan. She opened the doors to her business Value Lab in April 2019 and is 832 N. Galena Ave., Dixon excited to mark the 815-677-9384 two-year anniverHours: 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Mo nd sary this spring.

Online: valuelab-dixon.c ay-Friday om The last year has it on Facebook. A list of or find av been a roller coaster tests and prices can be ailable found for businesses, and the on the website. same holds true for Arnould as she pivoted from offering routine tests to offering Covid-19 tests. Today she offers Covid testing, including the antibody testing, which shows the body’s resistance to Covid-19.

At Value Lab’s website customers can find a listing of available tests as well as the prices for each test. Arnould said she wants to provide quality service and affordable pricing.

“I always like truth and transparency,” Arnould said.

Private insurance isn’t accepted, but she does accept Medicare and Medicaid.

Additionally, doctors’ orders are not needed to request a test. Most results are available with next-day service.

No appointment is necessary and walk-ins are welcome.

Arnould admits she never thought she’d be an entrepreneur, but with the right team, as well as encouragement and support, she was able to see her vision become a reality.

That encouragement and support comes not only from her parents, Linda and Scott Burkitt, who managed their own business, a bar called Tipsy, but her team at Value Lab,including office manager Laurie Wetzell and her fellow certified and trained phlebotomist, who provide quality, safe care for patients.

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Submitted

Caroline Arnould, owner of Value Lab, processes blood work at the Dixon business, which will celebrate its second anniversary this April.

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Playing an important roll Need a lift? LOTS buses can pick you up, whether you’re going to work, a medical appointment or just need a ride — and they’re not just for seniors Shaw Local Media

LOTS also administers a new Greyhound Connect route between Chicago and Danville, encompassing stops along Interstates 90, 39 and DIXON – The wheels on the bus go ‘round and ‘round ... all through 74. The stops along the route include Chicago, Elgin, Rockford, the town ... and all through Lee and Ogle counties, sporting “LOTS” Rochelle, Oglesby, Normal, Champaign and Danville. painted on the side.

People moving from urban areas are used to city transportation.

Did you know that the Lee-Ogle Transportation System buses, “When people are getting to know the area, or if they have environwhich are outfitted with wheelchair lifts to serve the disabled and mental concerns, some are satisfied with public transportation seniors, are available to anyone and everyone? options,” Gates said.

Your vehicle may be in the shop. You may not have a vehicle – you “LOTS is doing a good service, and wants to broaden and reach may find it less expensive to use public transportation than to mainmore people.” tain and operate your own.

Door-to-door service to your bank, job, Sinnissippi services, mediWhatever the reason, LOTS is there for you. cal appointments, grocery store, and to Sauk Valley and Kishwaukee Many people still harbor the misconception that LOTS’ buses, community colleges are available. which are owned by the county, are just for seniors.

LOTS makes three trips a month to Rockford, for medical “LOTS used to be in the Senior Center on Galena Avenue appointments and to Cherryvale Mall. in Dixon,” said Greg Gates, LOTS executive director Rides also can be provided to DeKalb, Sycamore, LaSalsince September 2017. “Our current le-Peru, and the Quad Cities. building, built in 2012, is out on Route Greyhound bus service also is available at the LOTS 26/South Galena, just beyond the Bob Maltry/American terminal, with daily travel to Chicago and Davenport, I-88 overpass.”

Fa mi ly Ins Iowa. ura nc e Gates is not new to the transpor709 Brinton Ave., Dixon Like airlines, the cost of a ticket is determined tation business. He’s earned a mas815-288-4206 daily; they can be purchased at greyhound.com. ter’s in business administration, Online: https://agent.amf The numbers show how valuable LOTS is to people. served Kreider Services for 8 years am com/bob-maltry/il/dix- .

From July 2018 to June 2019, LOTS provided more than as its director of communication on/709-n-brinton-ave/ Greg Gates 105,000 public rides, traveling more than 731,000 miles. and marketing, and Sinnissippi CenThose ridership figures were impacted by the Covid-19 ters for 10 years, also in marketing. pandemic, with ridership being half of what a normal year “I had some dealing with transportation and LOTS of activity would be. As of March of this year, ridership per during my tenure at Kreider. Now that paperwork experiweek was averaging around 900 rides, which is a 40% drop-off from ence has prepared me. I request state funding through the Illinois one year ago.

Department of Transportation for LOTS.” Gates shared his secret to its growth and success. “Provider organiGates finds the work rewarding. zations have deep roots in our area, and they area big proponent of “I enjoy the work. It has enabled me to stretch and grow – working public transportation. We’ve developed great partnerships over the with provider organizations and individuals. I make sure people get years. what they need for themselves or for a loved one. Everyone can use “We want to hear regular feedback from our riders. They are a public transportation at some time in his or her life.” great sounding board for ideas. Maybe we’ll start some weekend trips People might be surprised by the size of the LOTS fleet – there are and add limited hours on weekends. It’s all about the people,” Wolf 24 buses in the system, medium duty, light duty, and minivans — and in spring 2020 work was completed on a $1 million maintenance said. garage and wash bay, which includes building a 3,064-square-foot “We have the best drivers, helpful staff, customer service and dismaintenance garage and wash bay and adding 26 parking spaces to the patch staff. With the recent weather crisis, we still got people where LOTS main office at 210 E. Progress Drive. they needed to go every day.”

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The founders of a local bank chain knew what their financial institution’s most important asset would be — it’s the first word in the bank’s name

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In 1974 a group of local businessmen worked together to establish a bank that would be dedicated to the community. They created Community State Bank and their mission and vision remains strong today.

The bank was founded in Rock Falls and today has five branches, including Sterling, Morrison, Fulton and Dixon.

The idea of community is more than just part of the name, and its business is more than just finances – it’s family. Community State Bank supports local non-profit organizations and schools throughout the Sauk Valley.

“We truly are a community bank,” says Cindy Conklin, assistant vice president at Community State Bank. “We live here, our families are here. It’s our home.”

BANK cont’d on page 19

329 IL Route 2 | Dixon IL 61021

815-284-3933

19

A Place Where Students Can S.O.A.R.

BANK cont’d from page 18 All of its locations are full-service branches, so clients may visit any location for anything from making a simple deposit to discussing loans and investments. At Community State Bank there are products for all ages and stages of life.

The bank is also proud of its service to local farmers and its agricultural lending department is there to help.

Whether it’s a second-generation family investing in the farm or someone following their dream of raising livestock or coaxing crops from seeds, the lenders can help them grow.

Community State Bank supports the local business community, too. From assisting with business loans to working in s partnership with the Small ice off nch Community State Bank bra .,Dixon, Business Development Ave a len Ga Dixon – 1021 N. Center at Sauk Valley 815-284-8500 0 09 Community College, 9-9 -58 815 , ton Fulton – 1325 17th St., Ful , 815-772-4011 where entrepreneurs can St. in Ma E. Morrison – 220 110 find the support and assis5-1 -62 815 Rock Falls – 1801 First Ave., 815-625-4300 tance in making their ay, nw Sterling – 3210 E. Lincol nch, go to combusiness vision a reality. bra h eac at For bank hours Community State Bank mstbk.com/locations.html goes beyond customers’ or m .co tbk ms om Online: www.c banking needs to provide k Ban te Sta ty uni mm Co find them with opportunities to on Facebook enjoy the camaraderie of the community with its Royal 50 accounts.

Clients are invited to participate in activities together, from day trips to a ball game to weekend getaways and visits to local vineyards. Conklin said there is a lot of clamor to re-start this popular program where individuals, couples and friends enjoy being able to spend time together while traveling.

The vision of its founders was a bank dedicated to the community and it’s a mission that today’s team at Community State Bank work hard to carry on. It remains a locally owned and operated bank, committed to the needs of the community.

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S- Safe, Nurturing Environment OChristian Development S-On-Going Safe, Environment S- Safe,Nurturing Nurturing Environment A- Academic Excellence O- OOn-Going Development On-GoingChristian Christian Development R- Real-Life Service Opportunities A-Educating Academic Excellence AAcademicPre-K Excellence Thru 12 Grade th

Linda Foster, School Principal • Carrie Worrell, Elementary Principal Pastor Jon Marx, Superintendent 7571 S. Ridge Rd. • Dixon • 815-652-4806

R- RReal-Life Opportunities Real-LifeService Service Opportunities www.fcsfalcons.com

th Educating Grade EducatingPre-K Pre-K Thru Thru 1212th Grade

Linda Foster, School Principal Worrell,Elementary Elementary Principal Linda Foster, School Principal••Carrie Carrie Worrell, Principal Pastor Jon Pastor JonMarx, Marx, Superintendent Superintendent 75717571 S. Ridge Rd. • Dixon 815-652-4806 S. Ridge Rd. • Dixon ••815-652-4806

www.fcsfalcons.com www.fcsfalcons.com

SVM PROGRESS Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

A Place CanS.O.A.R. S.O.A.R. A PlaceWhere WhereStudents Students Can

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Rising to a challenging time When a person embarks on their final journey, the team at Rock River Hospice will be by their side every step of the way, providing them comfort, care, and peace of mind knowing the loved ones they leave behind will be in good hands, too

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE | Shaw Local Media STERLING – “By your side, our family caring for your family” – that’s Rock River Hospice & Home’s heartfelt motto.

The nonprofit organization, started 39 years ago by a group of volunteers and health care professionals, has evolved through the years, and changed names a few times, too, but its fundamental mission – to provide caring, compassionate, dignified end-of-life care – remains, Executive Director Emily Taylor said.

“It’s about living. We’re here to help in the final days,” Taylor said Utilizing a team approach, patients, their family, the nurses and the social service staff collaborate to provide care programs tailored to meet a patient’s needs and requests.

Rock River Hospice & Home provides care for all ages, children through adults, in Whiteside, Lee, Ogle, Carroll and Bureau counties. In-home care is available, as well as care at the six-bed facility opened in 2017 at 2706 Ave. E. in Sterling.

The 14,000-square-foot facility was designed to allow patients and families comfortable private spaces, as well as space for families to congregate.

In addition to staff, the hospice relies on a core group of volunteers who assist in a variety of ways, from sitting with a patient and sharing companionship to providing meals for a family to helping patients record their stories.

HOSPICE cont’d on page 21

HOSPICE cont’d from page 20

COMMUNITY IS MORE THAN PART OF OUR NAME Dixon

Morrison

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The office at 2706 Ave. ling is open from 8 a.m. E in Sterto 5 Monday through Friday. p.m.

Go to hospicerockrive Facebook or call 815-625r.org, find it on to the nonprofit, or to lea-3858 to donate its services, programs anrn more about opportunities. Donationsd volunteer ca be made using PayPal ann also d Venmo.

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SVM PROGRESS Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

“Our volunteers are a vital part of our organization,” Taylor said.

In its We Honor Veterans program, for example, volunteer active-duty veterans spend time with patients who are veterans, sharing a bond that comes with a shared experience.

“The patients are able to talk about their service, talk about their experiences,” Taylor said. “It’s just another way we can help someone to feel honored in their life.”

The nonprofit organization goes beyond the patients’ needs: Rock River Hospice helps provide overwhelmed caregivers a respite from the 24-hour care a patient needs, as well as support groups – again providing comfort through shared experience.

The staff at Rock River Hospice & Emily Taylor Home also understands that bereavement affects each person differently, which is why they offer counseling services and 13-month post-death follow-ups for patients’ family members, to help them navigate those difficult milestones that come in the first year of a loved one’s passing.

Monthly support groups for anyone in the community also are available.

Thanks to its generous donors and fundraisers, Rock River Hospice & Home provides care for patients regardless of their ability to pay; no one is turned away, Taylor said.

There are several fundraising events yearly, including some that are coming up soon: April is Volunteer Celebration Month. Selmi’s Mother’s Day Flower Event and its Greenhouse Voucher Program are in May. On June 5 is the King/Queen Of The Grill, and on June 25 the Golf Outing will be held at the Deer Valley Country Club.

The Country Store opens Nov. 11. On Nov. 13, the Deer Valley Country Club will host the Hospice Gala.

Hospice’s biggest fundraiser gets underway the next day: The popular annual Festival of Trees, which will celebrate its 32nd year, will be Nov. 14-21 at Northland Mall.

It’s also a United Way agency.

Rock River Hospice & Home affirms life by providing exceptional care and support to those transitioning through serious illness, death and grief.

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Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

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A first Not every student looks forward to going from the classroom to the principal’s office, but Aaron Fassler is about to make a career out of it

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE Shaw Local Media

Aaron Fassler

Aaron Fassler, an alum of Faith Christian School, will be taking on the role of junior high and high school principal for the 2021-2022 school year. Fassler has taught at Amboy Junior High School since 2012.

“This is the first time in the school history to see an alum of the school jump into a leadership role,” said Jon Marx, superintendent of Faith Christian School and Pastor of its church, Faith Assembly of Grand Detour.

Fassler started at the school in 1993 as a preschooler and his teacher was Linda Foster. As Foster continued her role as teacher and then principal in 2006 she watched Fassler grow and learn throughout his elementary, junior high and high school years. He graduated from FCS in 2007, which was Foster’s first year as principal. This spring she will turn over the reins as principal to him.

FIRST cont’d on page 23

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faithful to Mr. Fassler as he was to me.”

Fassler said many of the reasons he is a teacher is “I have been involved in education for all of my thanks to the inspiration he had from his teachers life,” Foster said. “I love spending time in the classduring his time at FCS. room. My goal as a teacher has always been to engage “The teachers were a great influence on why I students and make learning fun. I will miss being in wanted to become a teacher. When I began teaching I the classroom and developing relationships with sturemember modeling my classes off of what I saw them dents and helping them grow academically and doing,” Fassler said, adding that former Pastor spiritually. “ Li Arellano had encouraged him by telling him She continued, “I have always felt called to he would make a good teacher. work in Christian education. I have been so The small school, with small classes, was blessed to be able to share with students the the right fit for Fassler. He was able to develop message of the Bible and to teach them that close friendships and the smaller classes Jesus loves them and has a plan and purpose allowed teachers more time to really get to for their lives. I believe that the only true eduknow their students. cation must address the whole student: body, “I can speak from personal experience that mind and spirit. I will miss that interaction Linda Foster it greatly shaped who I have become,” Fassler with students on a daily basis.” said. “I hear people say that a school like FCS Foster has been with FCS since the fall of 1991. In is sheltering students and not preparing them for retirement, she plans to spend more time with her what real life is like. I strongly disagree with that. I family, including her six grandchildren. And while want my kids to have the chance to be kids as long as she is ready for the next chapter, she said she won’t possible in a safe, Christian environment. FCS is be too far and plans to be available to help for occaimportant because it gives kids the chance to do that.” sional substitute work.

Fassler will share the school leadership role with “I am extremely excited to pass the baton to Aaron Carrie Worrell, who serves as principal of the preFassler,” Foster said. “I know that God will be as school and elementary classes.

FIRST cont’d from page 22

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for Faith Christian School

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Making your final wishes come true Whether your final resting place is in an urn or in the earth, a local funeral home can help you rest easy, knowing that the loved ones you leave behind will be in good hands STERLING – The funeral industry is witnessing a huge shift to cremation across the country, and in the Sauk Valley area. Families are seeking more affordable death care alternatives.

Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation has significantly lowered those costs, and increased the types of cremation services available to several communities in the Sauk Valley area.

Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation in Sterling has provided funeral and cremation services to families for over 45 years in Sterling and Rock Falls. What you might not know is that Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation is able to pass on these savings for cremation to families living in Dixon, Amboy, Walnut, Tampico, Lyndon, Prophetstown, Morrison, Fulton, and Milledgeville.

Simple cremation offers a less expensive and more flexible alternative to a traditional burial, and can therefore significantly reduce costs.

No casket, cemetery plot, embalming, or burial vault is required, Schilling Funeral Home immediately reducing funeral and Cremation expenses.

702 First Ave. in Sterling A direct cremation is the 815-626-1131 industry term for a “Simple CreOnline: go to schillingfune rmation.” Your loved one is comalhome.com or find it passionately removed from the on Facebook place of death, held in the care of the funeral home, legal documentation completed (filing of the death certificate, cremation permit and cremation authorization), a cremation container secured and cremation process conducted, writing of obituary, an online obituary posted, and the cremains returned to the family in a basic urn. Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation includes all of these services for $1,500, complete with an urn.

Simple cremation services in the Sauk Valley area can range from $1,500 to $2,795.

When visiting schillingfuneralhome.com you are able to view cremation services and related merchandise. The “Cremation Planner” tab on the website allows you to tailor a cremation service that fits your families’ specific needs.

It also helps with making financially sound decisions from the comfort of your own home.

MORE INFO

“Every single life is unique and so are our services” is their motto.

The Schilling family has been a trusted name in the funeral and cremation business in Whiteside County and Lee County for over 90 years combined. They are the same multi-generational funeral service family you have known and trusted in your community all those years, and now the most competitively priced.

Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation offers many other services that include cremation and funerals. To view other cremation options please visit their website at schillingfuneralhome.com or call for an appointment to meet with their funeral directors and cremation specialists, John Schilling, John Paul Schilling or Kora Magill, to explore all your options.

– Story submitted by Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation

The family behind Boss Carpet One Floor & Home knows what it takes to build a successful business from the floor up: quality customer service

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE | Shaw Local Media DIXON – At Boss Carpet One Floor & Home the heart of the business has always been family. From its roots as a family business, to helping each customer find the style and comfort that’s the best fit for their family home.

Boss Carpet One owner Ben Boss bought the business from his family in 2008. Parents John and Julie opened Floor-Mart in Dixon in 1981, followed by a second location in Freeport in 2000 and a third in Cape Coral, Florida, in 2003. Ben owns and operated the Dixon and Freeport stores and Nick Boss has taken over the Florida location.

BOSS cont’d on page 26

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SVM PROGRESS Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

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BOSS cont’d from page 25

Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

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As owner, Ben knows what it takes to make the business a success, and how each member of his staff is an essential spoke in the wheels of success.

“My earliest memories of growing up in the business are as a kid running across the towering carpet rolls, but my first work experience was in the warehouse while I was in high school. My jobs included organizing the store, delivering flooring, removing carpet from people’s homes, and installing vinyl tile,” Ben said.

Today, he still has a hand in all of those jobs, but now it’s as the person behind the counter instead of on the floor.

Boss Carpet One Floor He and his staff go the extra 329 state Route 2, Dixon & Home and 461 E. mile to help the customer find South St., Freeport exactly what they need, and Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mo often, having items in stock 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday; nday-Friday; Clo when other stores don’t or Online bosscarpetone.cosed Sunday m they require long lead times.

Boss Carpet One Floor & or find Home Customers shopping for carpet, on Facebook vinyl and hardwood often leave the same day with their items, or on the calendar for prompt delivery.

Another important part of Boss’ success is keeping its prices competitive.

“Our ultimate goal is to make the latest trends in flooring affordable by leveraging our buying power to benefit our customers,” Ben said. “Family-owned and operated since 1981, we understand the importance of building successful client relationships by providing memorable service and overall product value.”

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BOSS cont’d on page 27

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27 SVM PROGRESS Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

Boss Carpet One also leverages something else to help it succeed: personal service. Customers can sit down with experienced home design experts to help create a virtual image of how the product will look in their home.

With the array of products they can create an entire new look in the kitchen or bathroom, with faucets, cabinets and flooring. Once they’ve picked out their products customers can expect the same personal service when it comes to installation. Boss Carpet One’s staff takes care of installation, so there’s no need to go through a third party to handle the work.

With his children in their teens, the next generation is ready to lend a hand in the family business. On any given visit to the store on a weekend or summer day, customers might find oldest son Jack moving materials or helping with the business’ social media presence, and his other son, Grant, 16, has just learned the art of removing flooring. His youngest, Kate, may only be 13 but she lends a hand too.

“My parents were excellent role models, instilling the importance of honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business, and I would be proud to pass that along to our children,” Ben said.

Submitted photo

Boss Carpet One Floor & Home was a family business when it started and it still is today. Owner Ben Boss’s parents started the business in 1981 and today, Ben and his family, wife Amy and children Grant (left), Kate and Jack, all play a role in helping make it a success.

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Offer for new and qualifying former customers only. Important Terms and Conditions: Qualification: Advertised price requires credit qualification and eAutoPay. Upfront activation and/or receiver upgrade fees may apply based on credit qualification. 2-year commitment: Early termination fee of $20/mo. remaining applies if you cancel early. Other: All packages, programming, features, and functionality and all prices and fees not included in price guarantee are subject to change without notice. After 6 mos., you will be billed $8.99/mo. for Protection Plan unless you call to cancel. After 2 years, then-current everyday prices for all services apply. For business customers, additional monthly fees may apply. Free standard professional installation only.

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First State Bank’s Ag & Commercial Lending Tea m, from left: Jeff Norton, Lak e Carroll manager and vice president; Tyler Newcomer, ag and comm lender; Martin DeCreane, ercial cre analyst; Beau Bunders, dit president ag and commercvice ial; Steve Wilkens, vice presid and ent senior loan officer.

Submitted photo

In addition to Bunders, the Ag and Commercial Lending Team is made up of Jeff Norton, Marine It’s been said that farming isn’t a job, it’s a way DeCreane, Steve Wilkens and the newest member of of life. the team, who’s a newcomer in more ways than one.

So when it comes to seeking financial support Tyler Newcomer may be fresh to the banking for your dreams, or for your way of life on the famworld, but his education, which includes a degree ily farm, First State Bank has agricultural lenders in ag business from the University of Wisconsin who not only understand that way of life, but can Platteville, and his work and internships in the help make those dreams come true. Beyond just field of farming, allow him to bring his shared love the facts and figures, they know firsthand the kind and interest of farming to his ag clients. of commitment of caring it takes to make “It’s always exciting to see new your farm grow. farmers,” Newcomer said. “I Before the sun even rises, Beau understand their plight and Bunders is dressed and tending I’m glad I can be there to help to his small cattle herd on an First State Bank someone get started with Shannon – 1 S. Linn, 815-86 18-acre farm before heading 4-2111 their farming dream, or to Polo – 211 S. Division Ave., back to the house for a 815-946-2777 make someone’s life easier Sh an no n-L ake Carroll – 24494 E. Pa shower and dressing for his yne Road, with a solid financial plan. day job as vice president ag 815-864-2125 Go to fsbshannon-polo.com It’s very rewarding.” and commercial at First /index.php/contact for Newcomer hails from State Bank, where he enjoys a list of branch Leaf River, where he grew Online: fsbshannon-polo.chours spending more time in the up helping on the nearly State Bank Shannon-Polo om or find “First fields with his farmer clients -Lake Carroll” on 150-year-old family farm. He than at his desk crunching Facebook. has his eyes set on managing To contact Bunders and Ne the numbers. It’s not every wcomer his own farm one day, reprebanker keeps a change of jeans call 815-864-2111. senting the next generation of and boots in his truck for when he Newcomers to carry on the family makes stops to visit with clients, tradition. where he’s just as interested in their crops After a day in the office and out visiting with as he is their cash flow. his clients, Bunders returns home, changes back Agriculture has always had a special place in into his work clothes and returns to check on the First State Bank’s portfolio, and throughout its herd, clean up, and tackle the farming chores even history it’s been there to serve its farming clients after the sun has begun to set. The days are long, and their needs. While not every member of the Ag but for Bunders, it isn’t about the hours on a clock lending team at First State Bank manages a farm, or the list of chores to be done. their passion for the way of life is demonstrated by “It doesn’t seem like work to me,” Bunders said. their dedication to their clients and their understanding of the ups and downs of the industry.

It is just a way of life.

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE | Shaw Local Media

Experts in their field First State Bank customers are in good hands when it comes to ag lending — the kind of hands that can go from feeding figures into a spreadsheet to feeding cattle

MORE INFO

A Dixon assisted living facility customizes its care to provide peace of mind not only to its residents, but their loved ones, too

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE Shaw Local Media DIXON – When you step through the doors of Avonlea Cottage of Dixon Memory Care the first thing you’ll notice is the scent of fresh-brewed coffee in the morning. You might hear music playing, someone watching television or notice the sun streaming through the windows on a sunny day.

“This is a home,” says co-owner AvaLynda Casey.

She and her husband, Steve, work hard to provide a comfortable and cozy residential setting where they provide assisted living accommodations with a focus on patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia. With room for 20 residents, the smaller setting is the kind of place where the staff knows everyone by name and what activities they enjoy most in their day.

HOME cont’d on page 30

Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@shawmedia.com

Alma Wood (left), executive director and director of nursing at Avonlea Cottage, and owners AvaLynda and Steve Casey know the importance of creating a comforting, home-like setting for its residents. “This is home,” AvaLynda said. “We have the time to talk to our residents about what’s important to them. We know how many kids they have, what they did for a living.”

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SVM PROGRESS Sauk Valley Media/ SaukValley.com • Saturday, March 27, 2021

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HOME cont’d from page 29 “We have the time to talk to our residents about what’s important to them,” AvaLynda said. “We know how many kids they have, what they did for a living.”

And while it may sounds simple, it is just part of the important comforts AvaLynda and her staff strive to provide for their residents. The staff-to-resident ratio is 2:7 during the day in addition to having a licensed nurse at the facility 24 hours a day, as well as an in-house doctor who schedules routine visits to provide care for the residents in the comfort of a familiar setting.

And while the past year has been difficult for many families, separated in order to maintain safety, AvaLynda and her staff began offering all residents video phone calls starting last year so loved ones could speak with each other, share a smile, or hear a story about their day.

“We have one resident whose family video calls almost daily,” said AvaLynda.

Staff also stepped up protocols to provide additional sanitization throughout the day, and abide by CDC guidelines as they strive to maintain a safe, clean environment.

Caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s and dementia is more than just a business for AvaLynda and Steve. It’s personal. The couple cared for AvaLynda’s father, Howard Wiseman, who had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The couple saw first-hand the physical and emotional challenges, and it was that experience that inspired them to provide peace of mind to others, knowing that their loved ones have the care and comfort they need.

AvaLynda said the decision to take on the business a few years ago was a calling: to provide quality care.

But the work doesn’t stop at the care of the Avonlea Cottage residents.

AvaLynda’s other passion is educating and helping others understand and improve their care of loved ones with memory loss.

“The greater the education we have for healthcare workers and caregivers the better it will be for patients with any sort of dementia,” AvaLynda said.

“One important part to understand is that dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia.”

HOME cont’d on page 31

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Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@shawmedia.com

HOME cont’d from page 30 AvaLynda is an Alzheimer’s Association volunteer and she works with state legislators to improve the standards of care and services provided to Alzheimer’s and dementia patients.

She also participates in the KSB Hospital Support Group, where families can Avonlea Cottage of Dixon come together for emotional support and 503 Countryside Lane, Dix on share their stories of caring for loved 815-288-6044 ones with these diseases.

Online: Go to avonleaco tta “I am very passionate about helping com or find “Avonlea Cogeofdixon. ttage families who have loved ones living with Dixon” on Facebook of Alzheimer’s or dementia,” AvaLynda Call 815-288-6044 to arr ange said. an appointment to visit She also promotes increased education and tour the facility for local healthcare workers. She and her staff welcome the opportunity to work with doctors and nurses to share their training and bring greater awareness of the unique care needed.

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