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SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2026 est. 1851

FIRST RESPONDERS LEE COUNTY & WHITESIDE COUNTY

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DIXON POLICE DEPARTMENT

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, Augus 29, 2026

FIRST RESPONDERS

City of Dixon and Numerous Fire Departments Responding to Explosion and Gas Emergency at Chateau Estates in Dixon.

Dixon Police Officer Collin Grady received the Life Saving Award, earlier this year. On January 8, 2026, Officer Grady responded to a single vehicle accident where a car struck a house and the gas line. Officer Grady quickly assessed the situation and evaluated the driver. Officer Grady made the decision to apply a tourniquet to the driver’s leg as the driver was bleeding profusely. The driver was transported to the hospital where he received further care. It was noted by one of the ER doctors that Officer Collin Grady’s actions on scene saved the driver’s life. Thank you, Officer Grady for your quick actions and your commitment to taking care of our community!

DIXON POLICE DEPARTMENT

3 FIRST RESPONDRES Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, August 29, 2026

Jefferson School in Dixon, share a morning with various Dixon police officers to start the school year just right!

DIXON POLICE DEPARTMENT

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, Augus 29, 2026

FIRST RESPONDERS

Dixon Police Department officers’ partnered with the Dixon Library to “cool off” with kids this summer.

Dixon Mayor, Glen Hughes swears in Dixon Police Department’s newest additions, Officer Jack Dempsey and Officer Cam Miller. The swearing-in ceremony marks an important step in their law enforcement careers.

DIXON POLICE DEPARTMENT

THANK YOU,

first responders!

When seconds matter, you’re always there – delivering your best and the possibility of many new tomorrows to those in need. We sincerely thank the dedicated professionals of law enforcement, fire departments and emergency medical services for your vital support for the communities of the Sauk Valley.

Dixon Police Officers Lally & Officer Kammerer had the honor of giving these awesome kids a lift to Washington School —and they surprised them with donuts as a thank you! Safe to say, it was a pretty sweet start to the day!

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FIRST RESPONDRES Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, August 29, 2026

Nothing like a little ice cream break to keep the Dixon Police officers cool and community-ready.

DIXON POLICE DEPARTMENT

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, Augus 29, 2026

FIRST RESPONDERS

Various offices of the Dixon Police Department participated in the Dunkin Cop on a Rooftop to support efforts to raise money for Special Olympics Illinois! The group was able to raise just under $2,000! 100% of the proceeds benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Illinois!

Neighbors Helping Neighbors Thank You, First Responders.

Thank You First Responders (815) 677-9098 | (815) 284-5033 704 N Galena Ave, Dixon, IL 61021

kaleels.com

735 N Galena Ave, Dixon, IL (815) 284-7788

LEE COUNTY SHERIFF DEPARTMENT

Handing out Ghoul-Aid for Halloween

FIRST RESPONDERS

Thank you!

FIRE

EMS

POLICE

DISPATCH

WELLNESS PANEL JUST FOR YOU

189.00

CBC • AIC • CMP • LIPID 832 N Galena Ave., Dixon 404 W Blackhawk Drive, Suite 101, Byron 815.677.9384 • www.valuelab-dixon.com SM-ST2344403

FIRST RESPONDRES Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, August 29, 2026

A Hero In You Foundation

LEE COUNTY SHERIFF DEPARTMENT

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, Augus 29, 2026

FIRST RESPONDERS

K9 Units ready for Amboy Food Truck Monday.

We would like to thank everyone from the Dixon VFW Post 540 for their generous donation to our Shoppin with a Sheriff program.

thaNK yOU, fIrSt reSpONDerS

for answering the call. • for protecting community. • for always being there.

Thank You to our employees that are First Responders!

we appreciate your services & sacrifice Proud to support the first responders who keep the Sauk Valley safe. 210 W Boyd St, Dixion, IL | (815) 973-1811 www.saukvalleycollisiondixon.com QUALITY REPAIRS • HONEST SERVICES • COMMUNITY STRONG

Walmart® Supply Chain Save money. Live better. 23769 Mathew Road Sterling, IL 61081

STERLING POLICE DEPARTMENT

Building connections and bringing smiles throughout Sterling.

Thank You

FIRST RESPONDERS

COURAGE. ★ DEDICATION. ★ SERVICE.

We appreciate all that you do to keep our communities safe.

UseMyFrame.com Great Glasses @ Great Prices YOU PROTECT US.

We see you

S P E C I A L P R O M OT I O N

50% OFF

HUGE SELECTION of quality frames for every style and budget.

QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST Expert service, premium lenses and coatings.

O U R A L R E A DY LOW P R I C E S

For the month of September for All Service Men & Women

104 East 3rd Street, Rock Falls, IL 61071 |

FASTEST TURNAROUND TIME Most single vision glasses ready quicker!

(815) 677-4398 |

LOWEST PRICES We work hard to beat big box and online prices.

LOCAL & DEPENDABLE Proudly serving our community for over 10 years

Mon – Fri 9am to 5:30pm

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO. | WE SALUTE OUR FIRST RESPONDERS.

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FIRST RESPONDRES Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, August 29, 2026

SRO Johnson is back for another year of keeping students safe and building positive relationships.

STERLING POLICE DEPARTMENT

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, Augus 29, 2026

FIRST RESPONDERS

Bringing our community together for a fun and safe National Night Out.

Morning views from those who serve and protect.

Thank You To All First Responders

FRANK’S

SMALL ENGINE REPAIR www.TORO.com Come check out our in-store deals. M -F 8-5, Sat. 8-Noon

405 Ash Avenue, Sterling • 815-622-9999 Thank You First Responders Locally owned and operated, we offer certification training through the American Heart Association: • Basic Life Support (BLS) • HeartSaver CPR/AED and First Aid • Pediatric HeartSaver CPR/AED and First Aid • Family and Friends Hands Only CPR • Bloodborne Pathogen Compliance

Visit us at www.SaukValleyCPR.com or call 815-564-8766 for more information or to schedule training.

Roaring applause to our first responders! Thank You! 2109 INDUSTRIAL PARK ROAD ROCK FALLS, IL 61071 | 815-626-7878 | www.jeffbrightrv.com

STERLING POLICE DEPARTMENT

FIRST RESPONDRES Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, August 29, 2026

Behind every badge is a commitment to serve our community

HONORING OUR FIRST RESPONDERS:

Thank You

to the brave first responders who protect, serve, and care for our community every day.

1311 Nelson Rd., Rock Falls invenergy.com Follow us on Facebook SM-ST2343142

HEROES AMONG US!

$500 New Car Rebate

Sterling Chevy 1824 Locust, Sterling 815/625-2700 ABRA Autobody 1818 Locust St., Sterling 815-625-2272

ROCK FALLS POLICE DEPARTMENT

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, Augus 29, 2026

FIRST RESPONDERS

The Rock Falls Police Department would like to congratulate Officer Armando Garnica for being named Officer of the Year for 2025.

Officer Kaden Coppotelli received a certificate of appreciation from the Alliance of Against Intoxicated Motorists for his commendable DUI enforcement.

Proudly Respects All First Responders

Skilled Nursing | Long Term Care Memory Care | Independent Living Outpatient Therapy

310 Mosher Dr, Prophetstown, IL 61277 815-537-5175

Community State Bank COMMUNITY IS MORE THAN PART OF OUR NAME

We would like to thank all first responders for your hard work and diligence in keeping our “Community” safe. Thank You Dixon

Morrison

EVERYDAY HEROES AMONG US. 915 8th Ave. Erie, IL 61250 • (309) 659-2245

PROUDLY SERVING...

Proud to be locally owned and managed since 1975 NMLS# 480435

Fulton

Rock Falls

Sterling

Rock Falls Sterling Dixon 1801 First Avenue (815) 3210 E. Lincolnway 1021 North Galena Avenue (815) 284-8500 625-1110 (815) 625-4300 Morrison Fulton 220 E Main Street 1325 17th Street (815) 772-4011 (815) 589-9090

ROCK FALLS POLICE DEPARTMENT

National Night Out August 5th.

24/7 Critical Care Paramedic Services We would like to not only recognize our own employees but all the surrounding first responders, care facilities, hospitals and anybody or place that helps deliver the care and compassion that makes the Sauk Valley a beautiful place to live.

THANK YOU TO ALL

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( 815 ) 288-6898 Serving Dixon & Surrounding Areas For 43 Years

FIRST RESPONDRES Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, August 29, 2026

Fahgo 5th Birthday

DIXON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, Augus 29, 2026

FIRST RESPONDERS

Members of the Dixon City Firefighters Local 1943 volunteer for Habitat for Humanity.

Congratulations to these outstanding members of the Dixon Fire Department who helped welcome two new babies into the world over the past month. Members of the stork team are all firefighters/ paramedics, left to right are FF Markel, FF Munson, FF Boettcher, FF Hansler, FF Robles, FF McCoy, FF Fisher.

Thank you for all you do!

I love “Resthave and Staff are amazing!

Thank You! To Our First Responders For your strength, courage, and sacrifice

The fact that You treat the Residents with such Dignity and Respect in this phase of life. If I lived in the area, I would volunteer at Resthave. It would be an Honor and a Privilege to do so! Keep up the good work, as God will reward you one day!” ~ Marriean T.

HURRY! ONLY 2 ASSISTED LIVING APARTMENTS AVAILABLE!

Definitely Worth the Drive! Morrison IL

Angelo’s Delivery Sterling (815) 625-5000

Angelo’s II Sterling (815) 625-5451

Angelo’s Rock Falls (815) 625-5163

Angelo’s III Dixon (815) 285-0055

Resthave is an equal opportunity employer and provider

408 Maple Ave., Morrison, IL

815.772.4021

DIXON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Over 6 Million Won Here in 2025!

IDEAL VENUE FOR FRIENDS & FAMILY GATHERINGS

September 4 Adult Bingo

September 23 Magic Hunks

per 2025 IGB Data

FREE ROOM RENTAL IN OUR “UDDER ROOM”

• WEDDINGS • BIRTHDAY PARTIES • RECEPTIONS Must be 21 or older to game. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) or text “GAMB” to 833234. Individuals can enroll in the IGB Self-Exclusion Program at all of the IGB offices located at all casinos. Additional information can be found at https://www.igb.illinois.gov/selfexclusion

HISTORIC BARN RENOVATED WITH YOU IN MIND Caterer of your choice or bring your own food. Handicapped accessible. Climate-controlled & Bounce House Friendly

K’s Korner Bar and Banquet

13030 GALT RD, STERLING, IL (815) 626-2988

• FAMILY REUNIONS • GRADUATIONS • HOLIDAY PARTIES

MATCH PLAY

Must be 21 or older to game. No purchase necessary. One coupon per person. Management reserves all rights. Redeem this coupon to receive $10 Match Play at K’s Korner. Match Play must be played in video gaming terminals and is offered and provided exclusively by K’s Korner. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1- 800-426-2537) or text “GAMB” to 833234. Expires 9/30/26.

FIRST RESPONDRES Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, August 29, 2026

Members of the dive team are Deputy Chief Arnould, FF Fisher, The Dixon Fire Department Dive team along with Rochelle FD FF Shipman, FF Boettcher, FF Palacz Dive team conduct training.

DIXON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, Augus 29, 2026

FIRST RESPONDERS

Members of the Dixon Fire department perform technical rescue training with Dixon Rural.

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

ITEM OF 10% 1YOUR OFF CHOICE expires 9/30/26

BUY 3 BOOKS FROM THE USED BOOK STORE, GET 1

FREE

expires 9/30/26

307 First Ave. Sterling Mon-Sun 10am-4pm

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STERLING FIRE DEPARTMENT

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FIRST RESPONDRES Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, August 29, 2026

SFD Egg Drop - Sterling Firefighters joining the fun at Lincoln Elementary’s Annual Egg Drop!

STERLING FIRE DEPARTMENT

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, Augus 29, 2026

FIRST RESPONDERS

Sterling Firefighters— ready to respond when it matters most.

Training today. Ready to serve tomorrow.

THANK YOU TO OUR

First Responders

PROUDLY THANKING OUR LOCAL FIRST RESPONDERS!

Thank You

FIRST RESPONDERS

Your courage, dedication and service make our community a better place to live.

For fast, effective, and guaranteed pest control, contact Pest Control Consultants. With three generations of trusted service, you can trust PCC to get the job done right! Proudly offering same day service! Quarterly Home Protection Plans & Comprehensive Business Protection Plans Available!

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.pccil.com • (815) 284-4101 1100 W 2nd St, Dixon, IL 61021 MONDAY-FRIDAY 8am-5pm SATURDAY 8am-12pm

Dixon Glass Co.

commercial and residential

windows, doors and more!

414 W. First Street • Dixon, IL 61021 • (815) 288-3000 • www.dixonglasscompany.com

Let us help you with all your Natural Health needs! Now offering: Foot Detox Bath We appreciate all first responders. Let us know you're a first responder when you're in the store so we can honor your service with 10% off any purchase! • Herbs & Vitamins • Natural Immune Support • CBD Products

• Essential Oils • Natural Health & Beauty • Knowledgeable & Friendly

815-625-3409

2522 E Lincolnway, Suite C, Sterling, IL 61081

ROCK FALLS FIRE DEPARTMENT

THANKS TO OUR

PROUD TO SUPPORT FIRST RESPONDERS

FIRST RESPONDERS

To the amazing emergency workers who help when we need it most, thank you for your courage and commitment to saving lives!

Bob Maltry, Agent 709 N. Brinton Ave Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 288-4206

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.l. and Its Operating Companies 6000 American Parkway, Madison WI 53783 @2017 007250 - Rev. 12/25 - 29495573-MOD SM-ST2344601

1705 Eastwood Drive, Sterling (815) 625-1851 720 N Galena Ave, Dixon (815) 288-3211

FIRST RESPONDRES Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, August 29, 2026

Rock Falls Fire Department teaching Riverdale students the importance of fire safety!

Congratulations to Rock Falls Fire Department for receiving their award for favorite kids’ attraction.

ROCK FALLS FIRE DEPARTMENT

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, Augus 29, 2026

FIRST RESPONDERS

Building skills and staying ready through hands-on aerial training.

THANK YOU FIRST RESPONDERS! PROUDLY SERVING FIRST RESPONDERS SINCE 1957 For nearly 70 years, Foster Coach Sales has been proud to support the men and women who serve our communities with quality ambulances, dependable service and a commitment to getting the job done right. QUALITY AMBULANCES DEPENDABLE SERVICE PROVEN RELIABILITY 903 Prosperity Drive | Sterling, Illinois 61081 800-369-4215 | 815-625-7222 fostercoach.com

QUALITY AMBULANCES. DEPENDABLE SERVICE. PROVEN RELIABILITY.

WHITESIDE COUNTY SHERIFF DEPARTMENT

Sheriff Booker

Thank Thank You You

THANK YOU TO ALL FIRST RESPONDERS

Thank you ourfirst first responders responders for swift action Thank you totoour fortheir their swift action and unwavering dedication to their communities. and unwavering dedication to their communities. Shipping & Packaging All-Safe Center Is An Authorized Ups And FedEx Shipping Agent With USPS Services.

We have a full line of shipping boxes & envelopes

ASK ABOUT OUR AMAZON RETURN SERVICES OUR SPECIALTY Climate Controlled Self Storage Inside & Outside Vehicle Storage Moving Truck Rental

815.625.HVAC | loescherhvac.com

Office Hours: M-F 8:30 - 5:30 Sat. 8:30 - Noon

Business Center Shipping & Packaging

Document Shredding

(815) 285-2212

690 Timber Creek Road, Dixon, Illinois | www.allsafecenter.com

FIRST RESPONDRES Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, August 29, 2026

Future Sheriff Deputies

Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office making the holidays brighter through Shop with the Sheriff!

WHITESIDE COUNTY SHERIFF DEPARTMENT

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, Augus 29, 2026

FIRST RESPONDERS

Sheriff K9 Unit

Sheriff John Booker welcomes Deputy Brice Bolhous to the Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office.

Providing Peace of Mind When You Need it Most. Serving Our Community with Compassion, Care, Dignity & Respect for the past 120 years.

Pre-planning Services | Traditional Funeral Services | Cremation Services | Traditional Military Tributes (815) 288-4469 1033 Franklin Grove Rd, Dixon, IL www.prestonschilling.com

We’d Love To Have Your Travel Business Visit Our Website

Travel Consultants Of Dixon

Visit Our Facebook Page

ADVANCED EMS

CGH EMERGENCY SERVICES

23 FIRST RESPONDRES Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, August 29, 2026

Advance EMS proudly supporting the Reagan 5K!

THANK YOU To All First Responders

303 N. Jackson St. Morrison, IL 61270 815-772-4003

CGH Emergency Services connecting with the community at Rock Falls National Night Out!

2400 N. Locust St. Sterling, IL 61081 815-625-8529

24 FIRST RESPONDERS

THANK YOU TO ALL

Sauk Valley Media/ shawlocal.com/sauk-valley • Saturday, Augus 29, 2026

FIRST RESPONDERS

PRIMARY CARE

Call or see your provider for your regular medical problems or most urgent needs before going to Ready Care. Many providers have same-day appointments available. • Check-ups or physicals, including those for camp, school and sports • Common illnesses • Ear aches; sore throat • Flu shots and other vaccines • Health advice • Medication refills or changes • Referral to a specialist • Routine tests • Skin problems/rashes • Your regular medical problems

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CGH READY CARE

Go to CGH Ready Care (in Sterling or Dixon) for common things that need to be treated soon, but your primary care provider is not available. • Allergic reaction • Animal or insect bite • Back pain • Bad cold or flu; mild fever • Cuts requiring stitches • Ear aches; sore throat • Eye infection or irritation • Minor burns • Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea • Skin conditions • Sprains or strains • Suspected broken bone, not shifted or out of place • Urinary tract infection

EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Call 9-1-1 or go to the Emergency Department for serious life or limb threatening conditions. • Broken bone, shifted out of place • Coughing or vomiting blood • Chest pain • Difficulty speaking • Head or eye injury • Poisoning or overdose • Severe abdominal pain • Severe burns • Shortness of breath; breathing difficulty • Signs of stroke, such as numbness or weakness of limbs, vision problems • Sudden loss or change in level of consciousness; dizziness • Uncontrolled bleeding

(815) 625-0400 • 100 E. LeFevre Road, Sterling, IL 61081 • www.cghmc.com