Svw 2016 12 31

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Serving Lee, Whiteside, Carroll, Ogle and Bureau counties Saturday&Sunday, December 31, 2016 – January 1, 2017 n $2.00

Counting down AUTHORITIES: MAN STOLE 2016’s top stories HALF A TON OF COPPER CRIME, A2 LOCAL SPORTS, B1

CRIME

Sex trafficking in the Sauk Valley?

Illinois is rated fifth in the nation for incidents of human trafficking

Farm Bureau ready for new legislative year

You might think sex trafficking happens only big-city back alleys, or Third World countries.

You would be wrong.

It’s happening in rural America, and not only to adults. Kids as young as middle-schoolers can be victims. In fact, the average age of a person forced into sex trafficking is 13 to 14.

And it’s not just the missing or runaways who are suspected victims. It could be happening to a child living with you now, experts say.

Maybe she meets an older guy. He pays attention to her, flatters her, invites her to a party. The guy – or a teen working with him – slips something into her drink, takes compromising photos, maybe even photos of her being sexually assaulted. Then he threatens her: Do what I say, or I’ll post these photos. I’ll send them to your parents, I’ll send them to your friends.

Terrified and ashamed, she becomes his next earner.

Illinois is rated fifth in the nation for incidents of human trafficking, of which sex trafficking by far is the largest component, along with labor trafficking.

Lobbying priorities set as ag prepares for new administration

BY PAM EGGEMEIER peggemeier@saukvalley.com 815-625-3600, ext. 5570 @pam_eggemeier

TRAFFICKING continued on A24

What to look for

Photo Illustration by Alex T. Paschal/ apaschal@saukvalley.com

Illinois is rated fifth in the nation for incidents of human trafficking, of which sex trafficking by far is the largest component, along with labor trafficking. Chicago and Rockford are the two largest sex trafficking hubs. Interstates 39, 80, 88 and 90, which crisscross Ogle, Lee, Bureau and Whiteside counties and run on into Iowa and Wisconsin, are major thoroughfares over which the practice is spread.

LEE COUNTY COURT

Attorney: Girl’s death an act of God Defense files notice in 2014 ATV vs. deer fatality

BY ASHLEY CADY acady@saukvalley.com 815-625-3600, ext. 5521 @ashleycady_svm

DIXON – An act of God – and not the influence of drugs – caused the death of a 7-yearold girl thrown from an ATV when the driver struck a deer.

That’s the argument defense attorney Paul Whitcombe will make in the trial of Brian Dees, 37, of Amboy, who was driving

the off-road vehicle on Sublette Road in Amboy on Aug. 3, 2014, when the collision sent the ATV into a ditch and threw off Cassandra Gray, 28, and her daughter, Makenzie Rutherford, 7.

The girl was airlifted to Rockford Memorial Hospital, where she died 2 days later.

Whitcombe filed a notice in Lee County Court on Dec. 15, advising he will be asserting the affir-

Mostly cloudy

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 18 36 Pages

Today: 35/19 For the forecast, see Page A11

The Daily Gazette and Telegraph will not publish on Monday, Jan. 2, and our offices also will be closed that day in observance of the New Year’s holiday. We will resume publishing, and normal office hours, on Tuesday. Sauk Valley Media would like to wish everyone a safe and happy New Year!

ILLINOIS

BY ASHLEY CADY acady@saukvalley.com 815-625-3600, ext. 5521 @ashleycady_svm

A person might be involved with sex trafficking if he or she: • Is dressing differently and all of a sudden has nice things without the resources to buy them.

• Is more withdrawn or isolated, or has other notable emotional changes.

• Is in a relationship with an older person and is acting differently, such as being more shy or submissive.

• Is showing signs of physical abuse, such as burns.

• Is showing signs of drug abuse.

Source: Rockford Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation

No paper Monday

mative defense – one that, if proved, either mitigates or defeats the legal consequences of a defendant’s otherwise unlawful conBrian Dees duct.

According to toxicology tests, Dees had heroin and cocaine in his bloodstream at the time.

Business

End of the Road Antiques offers wide variety of seasonal and unique items.

See Page C1

GOD continued on A24

Amid a backdrop of political change in Washington, the Illinois Farm Bureau has set its lobbying agenda for 2017.

The organization’s board of directors approved its national legislative priorities list Dec. 21, but it will serve as more of a starting point until the ag industry gets a better feel for a new administration and Congress. President-elect Donald Trump takes the oath of office Jan. 20, and Congress convenes Tuesday.

Adam Nielsen, IFB’s director of national legislation and policy development, said the list is short because of the unknowns created by the transition of power at the White House.

The list is largely based on what is known, he said, and the top issues in the early going appear to be regulatory and tax reforms – both of which received Trump’s strong support on the campaign trail.

“We’ve been told by congressional staff that right after everyone is sworn in, they will begin work on a regulatory reform bill,” Nielsen said.

“The House expects a vote in the next couple of weeks.”

Trump has named billionaire investor Carl Icahn as a special adviser on regulatory issues,

Adam Nielsen

Illinois Farm Bureau’s director of national legislation and policy development, on federal regulations that affect agriculture – one of many issues farmers will be watching closely after President-elect Donald Trump takes office. and they have vowed to push for a package of reform bills to stimulate business and job growth. Among the targeted reforms is the Environmental Protection Agency’s controversial Waters of the United States, or WOTUS, rule, which farmers will watch closely.

Farmers are looking for wholesale changes that will bring relief from burdensome regulations, Nielsen said.

“This isn’t just about an issue or two – structural changes are needed. We’re looking for transparency with the economics and the science used by regulatory agencies.”

FARM continued on A54

IFB in the new year Key components of the Illinois Farm Bureau’s 2017 national legislative priorities list: • Federal regulatory reform – Push for wholesale changes to a broken system • Tax reform – Small business tax reduction, preserving cash accounting system, eliminate death tax • Trade – Protecting ag-friendly provisions in the North American Free Trade Agreement • Farm bill – Developing a 2018 farm bill agenda that reflects the needs of Illinois agriculture

Community Ukulele players gather monthly for strum-alongs at a restaurant in Oregon. An SVM photo team member documented their fun with ukes.

See Page C12

“This isn’t just about an issue or two – structural changes are needed. We’re looking for transparency with the economics and the science used by regulatory agencies.”

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COMMUNITY WATCH

ROCK FALLS

Man charged with stealing copper

BY ASHLEY CADY acady@saukvalley.com 815-625-3600, ext. 5521 @ashleycady_svm

ROCK FALLS – A Rock Falls man accused of stealing nearly a half a ton of copper from a Dixon business faces 3 to 7 years in prison if convicted.

Steven W. Coleman, 37, is being held on $75,000 bond, charged with theft.

According to the Lee

County Sheriff’s Department, he stole 923 pounds of cut copper and two internally cooled weld- Steven W. Coleman ing wheels, worth $10,000 to $100,000, from SGS Refrigeration on Oct. 26.

Coleman has been jailed since his arrest Nov. 18.

His next hearing is Jan. 19.

Coleman has an extensive felony history. Most recently, he was sentenced in Carroll County in 2009 to two 10-year terms for dealing cocaine, 6 years for possession of marijuana, and a year for aggravated DUI, all concurrent.

In Whiteside County, his convictions date back to 1997, when he was sen-

tenced to 4 years for burglary. He was sentenced to 3 years for possession or use of a weapon or firearm in 1999; to 2-and-ahalf years for aggravated battery in a public place and knowingly damaging property in 2002; to 5-and-a-half years for robbery in 2004; and to 2 years for possession of cocaine with intent to deliver in 2007.

Traffickers approach victims online TRAFFICKING

CONTINUED FROM A1 t

Chicago and Rockford are the two largest sex trafficking hubs. Interstates 39, 80, 88 and 90, which crisscross Ogle, Lee, Bureau and Whiteside counties and run on into Iowa and Wisconsin, are major thoroughfares over which the practice is spread.

Victims, both boys and girls, are “recruited” in many different ways, said Lori Johnson, vice president of Rockford Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation, a nonprofit agency dedicated to trying to end the practice by helping victims, educating law enforcement, and raising community awareness.

Pimps and traffickers will sell sex from places you might expect, like exotic dance clubs and massage parlors, but also from unexpected spots, like lingerie stores – any place that can double as a storefront but still is private enough for illicit backroom activity.

They create brothels by preying on the vulnerable, especially youths, offering them drugs, food, a free place to live, then demanding they help earn money in order to stay.

Truck stops also are prime locations for the sex trade.

Traffickers look for their victims in places youths frequent – the internet, including Facebook, is a huge tool, the space in which children are the most susceptible to falling into the industry, along with schools, malls, parks,

To book a presentation The Rockford Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation’s mission is to promote safe communities by raising awareness of local sex trafficking.

To this end, RAASE will provide education and training sessions for human service providers, civic groups, youth groups, faith-based communities, health care professionals, hotel management and staff, law enforcement and educators.

RAASE has a 45- to 60-minute presentation that can be tailored to a specific group’s needs.

The group also is working to create an age-appropriate middle school curriculum.

Call 888-823-2364, find it on Facebook or go to raase. net to donate, to book a session or for more information.

The Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation, 773-244-2230, caase.org and on Facebook, and the ​ National Human Trafficking Resource Center, humantraffickinghotline.org or 888-373-7888, also can provide help for victims, resources, and more information. bus stops, shelters, group homes, even teen parties.

Age is the biggest factor when it come to being vulnerable. Pre-teens or adolescent girls, especially those with low self-esteem, often are targeted, as are runaway or homeless youths, or those with a history of physical and sexual abuse.

“Maybe they are shy, maybe they don’t have enough self-esteem or maybe they’re neglected at home,” Johnson said.

“Oftentimes there’s been some kind of abuse in their childhood, but they’re looking for love and they’re looking for romance and they’re looking for someone to pay attention to them.”

Those children often fall victim to what Johnson calls a “Romeo” pimp, a person who acts like a boyfriend, gaining their trust by buying them things, introducing them

to drugs and creating a financial and emotional dependency.

The relationship blossoms like a romance until one day the victim is told she now owes him for all the things he has done for her. Failure to do as she’s told then typically involves some type of threat – cutting off the drugs, public humiliation, physical harm.

“Once that happens, he’s got her,” Johnson said.

Through such manipulation, the pimp engenders such a fear of authority that it’s much more difficult for a victim to seek help to escape the situation.

That’s where RAASE can help.

Most women would rather die than go through withdrawals in jail, so one of the services RAASE offers victims is medical detox. It also provides safe housing in and out of state for those needing to

escape their pimps.

RAASE staff also put on workshops and seminars for law enforcement, health care workers, educators and other groups.

In fact, they recently had a training session for the Ogle County state’s attorney’s office, the Sheriff’s Department, Rochelle Police and other nearby agencies. “[The training] really opened our eyes to the fact there could be some of these things going on in small Ogle County and Lee County,” State’s Attorney Eric Morrow said.

Lee County Sheriff John Simonton said he hopes to hold a training session for his officers shortly after the new year.

RAASE and other groups hope such training will persuade police to focus less on the victims – the ones most often arrested – and more on the root of the problem: those buying the sex.

Many victims have trouble leaving their pimps, or won’t say much to police if they are arrested for fear of retaliation from their pimps, so tracking and catching pimps and johns is difficult, said Lynne Johnson, policy director at the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation.

Investigators often put little time and effort into charging the pimps and johns, which only exacerbates the situation.

“It’s about whether local leadership sees [trafficking] as a problem,” Johnson said.

Next hearing in both cases is Jan. 26 GOD

CONTINUED FROM A1 t

He was charged that October and was out bond when, about 6 months later, he was charged with theft of a item valued between $500 and $10,000.

Charges were amended in January 2015 to two counts of aggravated DUI involving a death; two

counts of DUI drugs, four counts of aggravated DUI resulting in bodily harm, and misdemeanor endangering the life of a child.

He has been in Lee County Jail on $500,000 bond since.

His next hearing in both cases is Jan. 26.

In May 2010, Dees and his then-girlfriend, Nicole M. Rutherford, were arrested in a string of break-ins or

attempted break-ins to churches and homes in Ashton, Sublette, Nachusa, Harmon, Walton, Amboy, Dixon, and Franklin Grove in Lee County, and others in Winnebago, Ogle, and Bureau counties, more than 2 dozen in all.

Dees was sentenced to 6 years in prison in a

combined Lee and Ogle County case, Rutherford to drug court in Winnebago County.

The two also were convicted in 2004 of burglarizing churches in Rochelle, Kings, Chana, Holcomb, and rural Oregon. Rutherford was sentenced to 4 years and Dees to 6 years.

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STERLING – Discarded Christmas trees will be collected in city limits the first 2 weeks of January.

No other yard waste will be collected. Curb-

side yard waste collection resumes March 13.

Residents who want to dispose of yard waste before then can call the Public Works Department from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at 815-632-6657.

Q U E S TI ON ?

T R I V I A

1) What lofty D.C. memorial was finally completed on December 6, 1884, after 105 years of construction?

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POLICE Sterling Police Monica L. Dyson, 17, of Chicago; 10:10 p.m. Thursday at East Second Street and Fourth Avenue; expired registration, given state citation.

Dixon Police Joshua R. Saxton, 31, of Dixon; 11:33 p.m.

Thursday in the 1300 block of North Galena Avenue; driving under the influence of alcohol and improper lane usage; given notice to appear in court.

Christopher H. Gutierrez, 26, of Dixon; 1:21 p.m.

Thursday in the 1400 block of South Galena Avenue; criminal trespass to property and possession of cannabis.

Marlene G. Zelinske, 62, of Rock Falls; 7:13 p.m. Wednesday in the 1100 block of First Avenue; operation of an uninsured motor vehicle; given notice to appear in court.

Boy, 16, of Sterling; 11:35 p.m. Thursday in the 300 block of East Fifth Street; unlawful number of passengers, failure to secure passengers under 19 years of age and no valid driver’s license; given notice to appear in court.

Boy, 16, of Sterling; 1:05 a.m. Thursday at First Avenue and 10th Street; disobeying a traffic control device; given notice to appear in court.

Ogle County Sheriff Richard Rhoden, 39, of Rockford; Thursday; failure to appear; posted bond.

Michael Matteucci, 54, of Ashton; Thursday; failure to appear; posted bond.

BIRTHDAYS Happy birthday to Jerry Brechon, Linda Dowell and Randy Bellows, all on Saturday.

Happy birthday to Angela Colville, Bobi Jo Majeski, Robin Senn, 60, and Shari Spencer, all on Sunday.

LOTTERY NUMBERS Estimated Lotto jackpot: $6.5 million Estimated Mega Millions jackpot: $96 million Estimated Powerball jackpot: $70 million

Pick Three-Midday: 0-3-7 Fireball: 3 Pick Three-Evening: 0-6-8 Fireball: 1 Pick Four-Midday: 4-7-1-9 Fireball: 6 Pick Four-Evening: 9-4-5-4 Fireball: 2 Lucky Day Lotto – Midday: 1-12-15-38-44 Lucky Day Lotto – Evening: 6-15-17-36-37

MEGA MILLIONS 6-21-33-39-43 Mega Ball: 2 Megaplier: 2

IN BRIEF Red Cross needs platelet donors DIXON – American Legion Dixon Post 12 is sponsoring a Red Cross platelet drive from 10

a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday at the post, 1120 W. First St Appointments are required at 815-2842003.

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ADULT DISABILITIES | ABUSE AND NEGLECT

Illinois held ‘auction’ of residents State officials required group home operators to sign a pledge not to undermine plans to close facility CHICAGO (AP) – The rush to close a large institution for adults with developmental disabilities during former Gov. Pat Quinn’s administration led to extraordinary strategies to move residents quickly and hide problems with an underfunded group home system, according to a newspaper investigation.

The Chicago Tribune says state officials required group home operators to sign a pledge not to undermine the state’s plans to close Jacksonville Developmental

Center – or risk getting no referrals from the facility to fill empty beds.

What’s more, the Department of Human Services held what amounted to an auction in April 2012 where a state official read aloud the medical histories of the Jacksonville facility’s residents. Group home officials raised their hands to indicate which residents they would be willing to take.

“We were appalled by the auction,” said Art Dykstra, executive director of Trinity Services,

the state’s largest group home provider.

State records show at least 67 businesses signed the loyalty pledge – promising to “not do anything to inhibit, diminish, or undermine” the state’s closure plans – to avoid being shut out of the auction and referrals, the Tribune reported.

Jerry Stermer, a former senior adviser to Democrat Quinn, said the auction system was changed to a paper process when group home operators complained. It had been designed to match resi-

dents with group homes that could meet their needs, Stermer said.

Motivated by a federal consent decree, Quinn had wanted to close several developmental centers but succeeded with only Jacksonville.

The Tribune’s story is part of an investigation that earlier found at least 42 deaths linked to abuse and neglect in group homes or their day programs over the last 7 years.

The newspaper’s investigation prompted Human Services Secretary James Dimas to order wide-

spread reforms to improve public accountability and streamline investigations.

The Tribune’s investigation found that adequate funding hasn’t followed when residents are moved from large institutions to smaller group homes, which in theory give adults with disabilities greater opportunities to live and work in the larger community.

Illinois group homes have gone nearly 9 years without an increase in reimbursement rates for staff wages.

“We’ve said all along the community system is grossly underfunded,” said Zena Naiditch of the disability rights group Equip for Equality. “It’s been grossly underfunded for decades.”

Gov. Bruce Rauner’s administration plans no institutional closures this fiscal year, which ends in June. About 1,650 residents still live in seven developmental centers statewide. A nonprofit advocacy group, the Arc of Illinois, continues to lobby for closing at least six of them.

DARIEN

Music therapy makes memory-loss patients calmer, more joyful

BY JESSICA CILELLA Daily Herald Distributed by The Associated Press

DARIEN – Alan Pasquesi has a vacant look on his face as his wife puts the white headphones over his ears.

The 65-year-old Darien man has primary progressive aphasia, a condition that during the past 12 years has taken away his ability to speak or understand language.

But when the music – maybe some Bruce Springsteen or the Eagles – starts playing, something changes.

His feet start tapping and his head bobs a little. His eyes gain some sparkle.

He smiles ever so slightly.

Pasquesi and his family are part of a national program run locally by a DuPage County service agency that introduces families caring for a loved one with memory loss to the wonders music can have on the brain, even if it can’t remember much else.

Music is a “back door” to the parts of the brain that are still working, said Dan Cohen, founder and executive director of the New York-based nonprofit Music and Memory.

“Our love of music is really connected with our emotional system, which is still intact no matter how advanced someone’s dementia is,” he said.

Debbie Pasquesi, Alan’s wife and full-time caregiver, says music has allowed her husband to take part in activities she previously avoided doing with him, things as simple as visiting

a pumpkin farm with their kids and grandkids this fall.

Previously, she said, “He would have been crazed there and he couldn’t have handled all the stimuli. We brought him, but we put his earphones on, and he was fine. He was very relaxed.”

Music therapy is being introduced to seniors who take part in Metropolitan Family Services DuPage in-home respite program, launched in 2002.

Two years ago, Jody Kanikula, director of the agency’s music and memory program, was deeply moved by “Alive Inside: A Story of Music and Memory.” The documentary explored the benefits of giving seniors with memory loss iPods equipped with a personalized playlist of music they enjoyed earlier in life. It inspired her to apply for a grant to purchase the movie to air at public events. A donor who saw it was so moved he offered to provide the funds for the launch of the initiative this fall.

Respite volunteers interview the seniors and their caregivers about the music they like and their lifestyle, asking questions such as where they used to go dancing, what some of their favorite movies were and what their wedding song was, while also sifting through their albums, CDs and cassettes.

“After the volunteer gathers all the information, then we have our chair of music and memory, a retired music teacher from Naperville, put together playlists,”

TV Antennas

that with Pasquesi when she presented him with a playlist of about 150 songs compiled from his music collection, much

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Kanikula said. “We’ve seen some really great results. The initial reaction generally is wonder or joy. When you put the music on you can see them come back. Their eyes will open, they’ll sit up a little bit. Depending on, where they are in their disease, some people will start singing, some people will start talking about music.”

Volunteer Cathy Johnston introduced Alan Pasquesi to Music and Memory in October.

“It’s music you’re familiar with, that you loved. It is your type of music, not just any music,” Johnston said. “It has a definite effect. There is a calming there and it does help the patients focus. With the music they are more focused on everything they’re doing, rather than not knowing where to focus.”

Johnston witnessed

she feels it is important her husband gets out of the house, to expose dementia and his condition to others and help fight the stigma that surrounds it.

Some of Pasquesi’s symptoms can be treated with antipsychotic drugs, but Debbie said that since being introduced to the music therapy, she has not had to elevate his dosages.

Cohen, the Music and Memory founder, hopes his program gets a chance at every health system in the nation.

Until then, he suggests people make an effort to introduce it to elders in their family on their own, by making personalized playlists with them.

“They’ll benefit now,” he said, “and it will have extra rewards later on, when they can’t remember what

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Volunteer Kathy Johnston works Dec. 19 with Alan Pasquesi as he listens to music at his home in Darien.

Pasquesi has primary progressive aphasia, a condition that has taken away his ability to speak or understand language. But when the music starts playing, something changes.

of which is rock from the 1970s and 1980s.

As his condition has progressed, Pasquesi has lost his personality and every day has revolved around his basic needs – sleeping, bathing and eating. He also became compulsive with food, snatching up any morsel he comes near.

When Johnston put his headphones on for the first time, the change was immediate.

He had a leisurely, 40-minute lunch; before that, the meal would have been devoured in a matter of minutes.

Music also has helped during car rides, which Pasquesi could hardly handle – making it difficult for Debbie to take him anywhere on her own.

“If he’s calmer, I feel better,” she said, adding that

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OBITUARY

FUNERAL SERVICES FOR THE WEEK ▼ Saturday visitations: Lanae Joy Newman of Erie, 10-11 a.m. at Erie Christian Church James “Jerry” Vaile of Dixon, 10-11 a.m. at Northside Baptist Church in Dixon. ▼ Saturday funerals: Lanae Joy Newman of Erie, 11 a.m. at Erie Christian Church.

James “Jerry” Vaile of Dixon, 11 a.m. at Northside

Baptist Church in Dixon. ▼ Monday visitations: Rosalie C. Frain of Rock Falls, 10-11 a.m. at Harvest Time Bible Church in Rock Falls. ▼ Monday funerals: Rosalie C. Frain of Rock Falls, 11 a.m. at Harvest Time Bible Church in Rock Falls. ▼ Tuesday visitations: Kendall Fransen of Rock

Falls, 10:30-12:30 at Schilling Funeral Home in Sterling.

Henry John Meusel of Dixon, 3-6 p.m. at PrestonSchilling Funeral Home in Dixon.

Darlene Eich of Paw Paw, 4-8 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Compton. ▼ Tuesday funerals: Douglas Payne of Amboy, 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Amboy.

Henry John Meusel of Dixon, 6 p.m. at PrestonSchilling Funeral Home in Dixon. ▼ Wednesday funerals: Darlene Eich of Paw Paw, 11 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Compton. ▼ Saturday, Jan. 14: Douglas Payne of Amboy, 4 p.m. celebration of his life at Amboy Community Building.

OBITUARIES Douglas B. Payne AMBOY – Douglas B. Payne, 54, of Amboy, died Friday, Dec. 30, 2016, at his home, after an extended illness.

He was born Dec. 10, 1962, in Dixon, the son of William and Wilma (Schimmelpfenning) Payne. Doug had owned and operated Sauk Valley Motors in Dixon and Rock Falls, for the past 17 years. He was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Amboy, and Amboy Park Board. He was also an avid Chicago Cubs and San Francisco 49ers fan.

Doug was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He married the love of his life, Cindi Lawrence, on May 17, 1986, in Sterling.

Survivors include his wife; four children, Luke (Elsa) Payne of Amboy, Abby (Bubba) Ellis of Sublette, Jeri Kay (Brian) Morrissey of Layton, Utah, and Taylor (Alex) Payne of Dixon; six grandchildren, Teagan, Mason, and Taiden Payne, Blake Morrissey, Chandler Payne, and baby girl Morrissey, arriving in April; his mother, Wilma (Tuffy) Gascoigne of Amboy; two brothers, Dean (Traci) Payne of Sycamore and Hank (Rosie) Eisenberg of Franklin Grove; two sisters, Janine (Tony) Shipman and Katie

Darlene Eich

(Dale) Ligtenberg, both of Amboy; his in-laws, James and Mary Lawrence of Sterling; brother-in-law, James (Ing) Lawrence of Fairfield, California; and several nieces and nephews.

Doug was preceded in death by his fathers, William Payne and Gerald Eisenberg; his brother, David Payne; his maternal grandparents, Jake and Laura Schimmelpfenning; his paternal grandparents, Melvin and Margaret J. Payne; his niece, Tabetha Shipman; and two nephews, Travis Ligtenberg and James Payne.

Per Doug’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Amboy, with the Rev. Timothy Draper, pastor, officiating. Burial will be at St. Patrick Cemetery in Amboy. A celebration of his life will be at 4 p.m., Jan. 14, at the Amboy Community Building.

Please wear your Cubs attire.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established to ALS-TDI Research, and Gaffey Hospice Foundation.

Mihm-Jones Funeral Home in Amboy is handling arrangements.

Visit thejonesfh.com to send condolences.

Gilbert Cantu STERLING – Gilbert Cantu, 63, of Sterling, died Friday, Dec. 30, 2016.

He was born March 28, 1953, in Lubbock,Texas, the son of Andres and Carolina (Rodriguez) Cantu. He had been employed at Kirby Risk Electrical Supply in Peoria for more than 10 years.

Surviving are his sisters, Selia (Anthony) Cervantes of Sterling, Christina Schleckman of the state

of Ohio, Delia (Armando) Garza of Kentucky, and Teri (Jerry) Whitledge of Edelstein; his brother, Robert Cantu of Sterling; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A family gathering and memorial will be at a later date.

McDonald Funeral Home & Crematory is handling arrangements.

Kendall J. Fransen ROCK FALLS – Kendall J. Fransen, 67, of Rock Falls, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2016, at his home.

Kendall was born Nov. 8, 1949, in Sterling, the son of Edwin and Mabelle (Richards) Fransen.

Survivors include four sisters, Shirley (Kenneth) Dewese of Findley Ohio, Karen (Kenneth) Wennenkamp of Hubbard, Iowa, Bonnie (Fred) Davis of Clayton Indiana, and Eileen Fransen of Georgetown, Texas; one brother, Edwin “Bud” (Roxanna) Fransen of Byron; one brother-in-law, Steve McKenzie of Bellingham

Washington; and several nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by one sister, June McKenzie; and two brothers, David Fransen and twin brother, Wendall Fransen.

Visitation will be from 10:30 to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday at Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation in Sterling. Cremation rites will follow, and burial will take place at a later date, at Oak Knoll Memorial Park in Sterling.

A memorial has been established.

Visit schillingfuneralhome.com to send condolences.

PAW PAW – Darlene Eich, 90, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2016, at her residence in Paw Paw. Mrs. Eich was born Aug. 4, 1926, in Robinson, Kansas, to Peter and Nellie Molinare.

Darlene was an avid animal lover and especially loved raising toy fox terriers. Darlene started her culinary career by operating the cafeteria at Del Monte in Mendota. To fulfill her lifelong dream of owning a restaurant, Darlene owned and operated the Pink Dip Drive Inn, for 11 years in Earlville. During the winters, Darlene loved to watch the Chicago Bulls, play euchre, and quilt blankets. Darlene was a member of Mendota Moose Lodge and Immanuel Lutheran Church in Compton.

Mrs. Eich is survived by five daughters, Marilyn Eich of Elkhart, Indiana, Patricia (Gene) McKay of York, Pennsylvania, Sharon Whatley and Shirley (Rodger) Coble, both of

Matthews, North Carolina; and Peggy Sonneson of Kewaunee, Wisconsin; four sons, Robert Eich Jr. of Lee, James (Jann) Eich of Paw Paw, John (Jerrie) Eich of Dixon, and Tom (Candy) Eich of Elmhurst; 22 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Eich Sr; one son, David; and one brother, Willard.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 398 Church Road, Compton. The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Church, with the Rev. Jeff Schlesinger officiating. Burial will be at the church cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to Immanuel Lutheran Church Capital Improvement Building Fund.

Visit TormanFuneralHome.com to send condolences.

daughter, Tamy (Robert “Bob”) Bock; one brother, George (Yolan) Meusel; two grandchildren, Courtney (Vincent) Scudder and Kellyn (Lee Branscum) Bock; and three great-grandchildren, Kendall and Blayke Scudder, and Casslyn Branscum.

He also was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Pamela Ann Meusel; his parents; and two brothers, Norman and Rudy Meusel.

Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, with the funeral at 6 p.m. Tuesday at PrestonSchilling Funeral Home in Dixon. Burial of cremains will be at a later date at Emmert Cemetery in Nachusa.

A memorial has been established.

Visit prestonschillingfuneralhome.com to send condolences.

Monna Mae O’Heron SAVANNA – Monna Mae Home in Savanna.

O’Heron, 97, of Savanna, Law-Jones Funeral died Friday, Dec. 30, 2016, Home in Savanna hanat Big Meadows Nursing dled arrangements.

Obituary information All obituaries, including death notices, are due by 2 p.m. Sunday through Friday if sent via email, obituaries@saukvalley. com or fax, 815-625-9390.

Obituary corrections and clarifications will appear in the Corrections

box on Page A2 the next publication day after we are notified of an error.

Receipt of all obituaries must be confirmed by phone. For more information, call 815-625-3600 or 815-284-2222, ext. 5530 or 5502.

CHICAGO

Pence’s visit raises $1M, draws protests CHICAGO (AP) – Vice President-elect Mike Pence’s appearance at a Republican fund-raiser in downtown Chicago drew about 150 protesters who chanted “Mike Pence go away!”

The Indiana goverMike nor spoke at Pence a luncheon Friday. Protesters from several groups gathered outside.

Tickets for the fundraiser started at $2,700 per person. According to a Pence aide the vice president-elect, raised about $1 million for the Republican National Committee.

Among the members of the host commit-

tee were Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner, state GOP chairman Tim Schneider and Republican members of Illinois’ congressional delegation.

Photos of the event posted Friday on Pence’s Twitter account

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Henry John Meusel DIXON – Henry John Meusel, 85, of Dixon, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2016, at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford. He worked at the cement plant in Dixon for 32 years, before his retirement.

Henry was born June 3, 1931, in Mendota, the son of John and Martha (Fischer) Meusel. He married Wanda Schrock on Aug. 1, 1953. She preceded him in death on Jan. 16, 2015. Henry Loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a diehard John Deere enthusiast and Chicago Cubs fan.

Henry enjoyed driving his golf cart around the neighborhood, and eating at River’s Edge in Dixon and Baumgartner’s Tavern in Monroe, Wisconsin.

He is survived by one

Reporter who covered Emmett Till story dies

show about 70 people at The Chicago Club.

The tweet says, “Appreciate the encouragement & support of many Chicago business and community leaders of the inauguration of President @realDonaldTrump.” www.birkeys.com Polo 928 South Division 815-946-2393 Prophetstown 200 North St. 815-537-2304

CHICAGO – Mattie Smith Colin, a reporter for the Chicago Defender, was dispatched to a Chicago train station in 1955 to cover the return of Emmett Till’s body.

A deeply moving experience, covering what would become a flashpoint in the civil rights movement, Colin eloquently captured the anguish of Till’s mother as her young, black son, slain in Mississippi after reportedly whistling at a white woman, was returned to her.

This is a portion of Colin’s story in the Defender: “‘Oh, God, Oh God, my only boy,’” Mrs. Mamie (Till) Bradley wailed as five men lifted a soiled paper-wrapped bundle from a brown, wooden mid-Victorian box at the Illinois Central Station in Chicago Friday and put it into a waiting hearse.

“The bundle was the bruised and bulletridden body of little 14-year-old Emmett L. Till of Chicago, who had been lynched down in Money, Mississippi,” Colin wrote.

Colin also was at Till’s funeral, where his mother insisted on an open casket to expose the horror of what had happened to her son.

Images of his mutilated body were printed in the Chicago Defender and made international news.

“Mattie was a gifted and highly intelligent writer whose heart was open to the truth,” said Col. Eugene F. Scott, the publisher of the Chicago Defender during the 1990s. “She had empathy and character, and could tell the kinds of stories that nobody else could.”

Colin, 98, who also worked for the Chicago Park District and the Department of Streets and Sanitation before

retiring at age 93, died Dec. 6 at the Warren Barr Living and Rehab Center in Chicago after a recent stroke.

Through her affiliations and work with the Defender, Colin came to know scores of local and national politicians and was an invited guest at the presidential inauguration of Lyndon B. Johnson. She also served as grand marshal of the Bud Billiken Parade, the largest African-American parade in the nation.

“She had done and seen so much but rarely talked about her own achievements,” longtime friend Esther Barnett said.

“She was a very modest woman and always more interested in what you were doing rather than what she was up to.”

She was born and raised Mattie Smith on the South Side, and her father was the owner and operator of two taxi companies. A graduate of Chicago Public Schools, she studied journalism at Roosevelt and Northwestern universities.

“She was the kind of person that understood the importance of being well-informed, so journalism was a natural fit,” said her cousin Anne Fredd.

In 1950, Colin joined the staff at the Chicago Defender, which was founded in 1905 and considered for many years to be the nation’s most influential black weekly newspaper, with more than two-thirds of its readership outside of Chicago.

Scott recalled having long conversations with the late John H. Sengstacke, the Chicago Defender’s publisher during the time of the Till story, and Colin’s name would come up regularly.

“He described Mattie as a stellar reporter and talked about her in the same light as Ethel Payne,” Scott said.

Payne, who died in 1991, wrote front-page stories for the Chicago Defender and is known as the “First Lady of the Black Press.”

Saturday, December 31, 2016

www.saukvalley.com

Farmer: More transparency needed FARM

CONTINUED FROM A1 t

While the EPA is often portrayed as the nemesis of farmers, the call for change isn’t relegated to that agency alone.

Farmers also point to the Department of Labor as they try to navigate regulations ranging from child labor to immigration. They also look for more clarity from the Department of the Interior regarding laws such as the Endangered Species Act. Farmers also have reason for optimism when it comes to tax reform, an issue that has been a Farm Bureau legislative priority for many years.

“We’ve been told that in the first 100 days, tax reform will be addressed, and it looks like some changes could be coming soon,” Nielsen said.

“Everyone in ag pays the small business tax, and they want to see that rate lowered.”

Other tax issues also have been on ag’s wish list for a long time.

Included are breaks in small business expensing, maintaining the 50 percent bonus depreciation level, repealing the death tax, and preserving the cash method of accounting. The cash method, unlike accrual accounting, doesn’t recognize income until payment has been received.

While regulatory and tax reforms will receive much of ag lobbyists’ attention early into the new administration, trade, immigration, health care, and making preparations for a new farm bill also are on the to-do list.

Trump has talked tough on trade, so more attention could shift in that direction at a moment’s notice. Pushing for the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, which included the U.S. and 11 other Pacific Rim nations, was near the top of Farm Bureau’s agenda last year. After 7 years of work, TPP has been shelved, but Trump has made no secret of his disdain for the North American Free Trade Agreement.

NAFTA is a trade pact between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico that was enacted in 1994, and basically eliminated tariffs on goods moved between the countries.

“We’re not sure how serious Trump is about renegotiating NAFTA, but it’s a big concern for us because there are very important benefits to agriculture,” Nielsen said.

In 2015, the U.S. sold $36 billion worth of ag products to Canada and Mexico, including a large chunk from Illinois, he said.

The farm bill is set to expire Sept. 30, 2018,

and work is beginning on that front. It is likely to remain on the back burner while lobbyists get a jump on more immediate legislative concerns.

“We’re asking our Farm Bureau members how the current farm bill is working for them, and by spring we’ll probably have a good feel for where we’ll be going with the next one,” Nielsen said. “We do sense there could be less money to spend in this farm bill.”

Nielsen also expects the House to quickly repeal the Affordable Care Act. Expectations are for parts of the law to be preserved, but the process of transforming it is likely to be lengthy and contentious.

“Farmers are saying their premiums are huge, so we will definitely be plugged into that debate,” Nielsen said.

He called the GMO labeling bill agriculture’s biggest legislative victory in 2016. The bill establishes national standards for labeling foods containing genetically modified ingredients.

“We spent a lot of time on the GMO bill,” Nielsen said. “There were a couple of disappointments with it, but getting it passed was a major accomplishment.”

Fighting for the TPP trade deal was another time-consuming endeavor for Farm Bureau. While the pact could be dead, ag doesn’t consider the effort a waste of time.

“I think there is now an understanding on Capitol Hill about how important trade deals are to farmers, and even if TPP isn’t picked up, it helps us in our battle for NAFTA,” Nielsen said.

on the last few years, higher prices made a nice base,” Hummel said.

“Now the level of support has dropped substantially, and there will be losses if you start collecting.”

Hummel calls the regulatory issues a slippery slope. He agrees there is a need for more transparency in the system.

“It’s frustrating when something is just thrown at you, and it’s too late to even get your 2 cents worth in,” Hummel said.

The EPA issued its long-awaited ruling on Renewable Fuel Standards in November, increasing the percentage of biofuels that will be put into the nation’s gasoline supply. Midwest politicians seem to believe the future of ethanol is safe in any presidential administration.

“The ethanol industry has matured a lot over the years,” Hummel said. “I’m just hoping biodiesel and some of the other biofuels can progress like that, and be successful without subsidies.”

During the downturn in the ag economy, fertilizer prices have dropped, helping to reduce input costs. Hummel said landlords, for the most part, have been cooperative in lowering rents for those who aren’t farming their own land.

As health care costs continue to soar, farmers will closely follow

the Affordable Care Act developments.

“I have a deductible over $5,000, and it floors me when I see the premiums I’m paying,” Hummel said. “The Affordable Care Act is set up to help people on the lower-income end, but the problem is you still need a decent income to get it.”

U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Channahon, recently met with his 16th District Agriculture Advisory Committee in Ottawa.

Formed in 2013, the 26-member panel has representatives from each county in the district. It meets twice a year to address agriculture issues on the local, state, and national level.

The meetings help him in his efforts to protect the interests of Illinois farmers in Washington, he said.

“It’s important to have their input, and for their voices to be heard – especially when it comes to decision-making on the policies that impact their bottom line,” Kinzinger said. “The agriculture industry generates $19 billion annually and employs nearly 1 million people in this state, and I need to work to ensure Illinois farmers remain competitive internationally.”

Illinois Farm Bureau also sets state legislative priorities each year, but the board hasn’t yet approved that agenda.

SV Weekend • A5

ROCK FALLS

Six arrested in Dec. 1 shooting

BY ASHLEY CADY acady@saukvalley.com 815-625-3600, ext. 5521 @ashleycady_svm

ROCK FALLS – A half-dozen Rock Falls residents who police say were involved in a brawl and shooting in Yeowardsville on Dec. 1 are charged with mob action, and two of the six also face with weapons violations.

According to Whiteside County Jail records: Brandon Muller, 37, was in jail Friday on $100,000 bond. He also is charged with unlawful use of a weapon.

Cainon Canas, 19, also is charged with unlawful use of a weapon and aggravated battery with a firearm.

His bond is $50,000.

The other four are Jennifer Elder, 37, Joseph Queen, 24, Koby Russell, 24, and Tommy Dugger Jr., 22. Bond for each was set at $50,000; Russell posted and was released.

All were arrested Thursday. Whiteside County Sheriff Kelly Wilhelmi declined to release any details, citing the ongoing investigation.

Joseph Queen

Koby Russell

Brandon Muller

Cainon Canas

Sheriff’s deputies received a report of gunshots fired as a result of a fight around 11:20 that morning in the 2100 block of East French St. in the subdivision on the eastern edge of Rock Falls, off U.S. Route 30.

One shot struck a vehicle, but no one was treated for injuries at the scene.

A number of guns and knives were said to be involved, and the fight might have been provoked by comments made on social media, Lt. John Booker said at the time.

Witnesses reports put the number of people involved in the fight at 10 to 30.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the sheriff’s department at 815-772-4044, or the anonymous reward tip line, Whiteside County Crime Stoppers, at 815-625-7867.

Tommy Dugger Jr.

Jennifer Elder

Talk vs. action Lee County farmer Larry Hummel said it will be interesting to see how wide the chasm will be between Trump’s campaign rhetoric and his actions. In the meantime, the Dixon grain producer said it’s time to analyze the current farm bill, which ushered in a new safety net system sans direct payments.

“It hasn’t been a perfect fit, but I think we’re headed in the right direction with price supports,” Hummel said.

Commodities prices have been in a down cycle, putting the insurance-based safety net to the test. This fall, the U.S. Department of Agriculture made more than $7 billion in payments under the ARC-County and PLC programs, which was more than 10 percent of USDA’s projected 2016 net farm income.

“Some of the supports were floating, and based

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Saturday, December 31, 2016

SVM EDITORIALS | THE YEAR IN REVIEW

Editorial views on the news of 2016 A

s 2016 draws to a close, we offer a sampling of the Sauk Valley Media Editorial Board’s editorials that appeared on this page during the past year.

Happy new year, one and all!

Arrival of new city manager an important day for Dixon – The arrival of Dixon’s new city manager marks a turning point in the city’s history. Good luck to Cole O’Donnell. – Jan. 8 Less transparency the last thing Illinois needs – A proposal to lessen government transparency by making public notice advertising optional is not in the best interest of an informed public – especially in a state notorious for government corruption. – Jan. 9 Heroin treatment expansion offers hope – Heroin is a matter of life and death. A string of heroin-related deaths in Whiteside County has prompted authorities to make plans to offer treatment through the Safe Passage Initiative starting March 1. We encourage heroin addicts to use the program to free themselves from drugs. – Jan. 16 Legion needs reinforcements – American Legion posts across the region could use more members. We encourage military veterans to join this organization and become active in its causes. – Jan. 27 Rebel flag: Perception is reality – The flag of the defeated Confederacy remains a controversial symbol. Given the school’s dress code wording, Prophetstown officials were correct to enforce a ban on Confederate flag images. To lessen confusion, more specific dress code wording might be in order. – Jan. 29 Tour demonstrates how big a headache aging jail really is – Aging and obsolete, the Lee County Jail is a major headache for the sheriff’s department.

A recent tour clearly showed the jail’s flaws. – Feb. 5 Police, fire pensions are “broke” – fix them – Cities in the Sauk Valley and across Illinois have had to pay more and more into local police and fire pension funds. A better way would be to create a statewide pension investment authority similar to the IMRF. The current system is broken and needs to be fixed. – Feb. 6 The Mayor Jim Burke era: Much more than Crundwell – The Sauk Valley lost a leader of enthusiasm and impact when former Dixon Mayor Jim Burke died last week.

We offer our sincere conJim dolences to his family and Burke friends. – Feb. 23 Evidence proves courtroom cameras promote transparency – The Illinois Supreme Court was correct to make permanent its Extended Media Coverage pilot project in 41 participating counties. We call on cameras in the courtroom to be allowed in all 102 counties. – Feb. 24 Drug overdose? Call 9-1-1 and save a life – The Good Samaritan Law should be a powerful incentive for friends to summon emergency medical help when someone overdoses on drugs.

Don’t stand by and watch a friend die.

Call 9-1-1. – Feb. 27 Crumbling infrastructure gets little voter sympathy – Referendums seeking financial support to replace the Lee County Jail and repair Carroll County schools went down to defeat Tuesday, as voters signaled their unwillingness to pay higher sales taxes this time around. – March 17 Public access woes cloud Sunshine Week – Illinois public bodies continue to deny access to public records, according to a report released this week. It’s a state law that public records are presumed to be open for public inspection and copying. Let FOIA officers and public bodies act accordingly.

– March 19 Farewell to the woman who welcomed thousands to town – The Dixon Greeter, Betsy Bulfer, died last week. She will be remembered for her laughter, friendship and outgoing personality, and for welcoming newcom-

Editorial Board Jim Dunn Sam R Fisher Sheryl Gulbranson Jennifer Heintzelman Jeff Rogers Kathleen Schultz Peter Shaw t Editorials

Joe Heller, Heller Syndication

ers to the city for more than 40 years.

– March 24 Once again, Sterling schools shun transparency – The district thus far has chosen to keep details from the public about cost-cutting options that impact jobs and programs. It should provide those details in advance of Wednesday’s hearing and decisions. – March 29 Second chance? Not with the public’s money – The Polo City Council erred when it hired a convicted embezzler to manage the city’s swimming pool – a job that involves handling thousands of dollars in public funds. Second chances should sometimes be granted, but not while risking the public’s money. – April 9 The Open Program in a word: Awesome – We stand in awe of Oregon High School’s Open Program, a nontraditional learning environment that captured the imaginations of many OHS students and inspired them to learn and do a lot of amazing things. – April 14 One momentous decision made; more ahead – With architecture reminiscent of a castle, Dixon High School is a very special building. The school board made a momentous decision this week to build a new school. It needs to be a special building, too. – April 16 Nelson School now history, but memories remain – We bid farewell to Nelson’s 1920s-era school building, which was demolished Tuesday.

– April 21 Hastert got what he deserved – Another flawed Illinois politician, this time Republican Dennis Hastert, has gotten what he deserved – prison time for his felonious actions. – April 29 Your access to help in fight vs. heroin – “Heroin in the Sauk Valley,” published in today’s edition, is a worthwhile – and potentially life-saving – look at what’s being done in the Sauk Valley to quell the epidemic. – May 13 Long past time for redistricting revolution – The Independent Map Amendment is closer to reaching the November ballot. If approved

by Illinois voters, the constitutional amendment, through fairness, openness and accountability, would revolutionize how legislative districts are drawn in Illinois. Bring on the revolution! – May 14 Activity no substitute for achievement – Illinois remains in terrible financial shape, but with 10 days to go in the legislative session, lawmakers fritter away their time on unrelated measures. Such activities are no substitute for real achievement on Illinois’ pressing problems. – May 21 Full-time lawmaker, part-time effort – We’re bewildered by state Rep. Mike Smiddy’s video game playing during House debates and his “present” vote on the state budget. This full-time lawmaker shouldn’t give a part-time effort for his constituents. – June 4 District wrong to withhold contract details – The Dixon School District has declined to release details of a tentative teachers contract before tonight’s special meeting, where the school board

THE FIRST AMENDMENT

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

will vote on it. Such secrecy is unnecessary and wrong. – June 8 Auditor general should be above reproach – Auditor General Frank Mautino has yet to answer all questions raised about his campaign spending as a state lawmaker. With a federal investigation underway and Mautino having asserted his Fifth Amendment right to remain silent, a leave of absence is in order. – June 11 Make tentative contracts public – Public bodies don’t need a law to require them to make tentative contracts public prior to final approval.

They can release the documents on their own. Voters should insist on it.

– June 14 “Eternal Indian” or “Black Hawk Down”? Lack of state budget jeopardizes restoration of Black Hawk Statue – The future of the Black Hawk Statue, so important for its artistic and tourism value, is in jeopardy. It’s a “concrete” example of the harm done by the state budget impasse. – June 16 Welcome home, again, to 1644th – Nothing can match the wild and crazy welcome home the 1644th Transportation Company received in 1991 on its safe return from the Persian Gulf.

For this weekend’s 25th anniversary reunion, our welcome is nonetheless heartfelt and sincere. – June 24 State budget father would be appalled – Gov. Frank Lowden of Oregon, who instituted state budgeting a century ago, would shake his head in disgust at the political football the Illinois budget process has become. – July 9 A fond salute to inventor of Jan’s sauce – We offer condolences to the family and friends of Jan Prescott, a local restaurateur who died last week.

Her namesake dipping sauce has delighted CanJan Prescott dlelight Inn patrons for 45 years. – July 14 Dixon helped greatly by this “president” – In the hometown of President Ronald Reagan, the late Jeffrey A. Lovett served a number of presidencies, both professional and volunteer. We honor the life and legacy of this outstanding communityminded leader, and offer Jeffrey A. condolences to his family Lovett and friends. – July 15 Lee County’s new administrator is a fine choice – Theresa Wittenauer of Amboy has been hired as Lee County’s first administrator. Her education and experience bode well for success.

– July 21 Putting public’s money at risk is unacceptable – A convicted felon was hired last year by Sterling Township, and public funds were reported stolen last month. The township’s decision to place the felon in charge of a youth group’s funds makes no sense. – July 30 Absurd vehicle, serious message – Dixon native Patrick Taylor, who likes to drive around in a Chicken Car, is

courageously tackling the serious issue of mental illness while having fun interacting with the public. He is doing commendable work. – Aug. 4 Extend media coverage to all courtrooms – Trial courtrooms in half of Illinois’ 102 counties are participating in Extended Media Coverage, or cameras in the courtroom. It’s time to extend the policy to the other half. – Aug. 20 Victory came 1 vote short; don’t give up – Disappointed redistricting reform advocates should not give up in the wake of an Illinois Supreme Court ruling that keeps the Independent Map Amendment off the Nov. 8 ballot. Elections in 2018 and 2020 provide renewed opportunities to fix a broken system through the citizen initiative. – Aug. 30 Kudos to city’s retiring clerk – Dixon residents owe a debt of gratitude to their retiring city clerk, Kathe Swanson, for blowing the whistle on the nation’s largest municipal theft scheme. – Sept. 15 From mourning to hope to action to a celebration – The Safe Passage Initiative, 1 year old this month, has helped more than 100 drug addicts receive treatment and the opportunity to be drug-free, healthy and productive citizens. The program’s success will be celebrated this evening in Dixon. – Sept. 21 Mr. Chairman, rebuild this wall!

– For safety’s sake, curb appeal and more, the crumbled retaining wall at the courthouse in Dixon must be fixed.

– Sept. 29 Salute to “Cork’s” leadership – We salute the business career of Charles R. “Cork” Walgreen III and offer our condolences on his death last week. – Oct. 4 Charles R. For former fighter pilot, Walgreen III mission accomplished!

– As a fighter pilot, Norm Wymbs flew 83 missions over Europe during World War II. Later, as a friend of the commander in chief, Wymbs successfully tackled a few more missions in Dixon. Our thanks to Wymbs and his wife for helping to preserve the legacy of Ronald Reagan. – Oct. 15 Jekyll-Hyde conduct sours governance – Robert Louis Stevenson might recognize the Jekyll-and-Hyde behavior of modern American politicians. The evil unleashed by negative campaigns too often interferes with governance. – Nov. 9 Plan A is out for now; look toward Plan B – Dixon voters clearly want to keep their 1920s-era high school, based on Tuesday’s 18-percentage-point drubbing of a referendum to build a new one. But even after mandatory health/life safety repairs, the fixed-up school might still be deficient. District leaders should start work on a Plan B that voters might someday find more palatable. – Nov. 10 Clear the air for a better tomorrow – Rock Falls city officials, frustrated by some residents’ irresponsible burning of yard waste, may be about ready to ban the privilege entirely.

They certainly would be justified in doing so. – Nov. 26 Choosing the speaker: A new approach – An outside-the-box maneuver by a courageous bipartisan coalition could bring new leadership to the Illinois House. Illinoisans certainly need it. – Nov. 29 Farewell to Prairie Sally – Nachusa Grasslands lost a good friend when longtime advocate Sally Baumgardner died. We offer our condolences to her family and friends. – Nov. 30 “Incredible police work”? We’d say so – Kudos to the Dixon Police Department and its detectives for solving a series of cellphone store robberies that had stymied other northern Illinois police departments. – Dec. 8 Include Ronald Reagan Home on your gift list – The Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home has attracted thousands of visitors since it opened to the public in the 1980s. It now needs numerous repairs estimated at $85,000. Please consider making a donation to support this project. – Dec. 22

“We carry an awesome responsibility in exchange for the individual liberties guaranteed by 45 extraordinary words of the First Amendment.”

represent the opinions of the Sauk Valley Media Editorial Board.

Jack Marsh, Freedom Forum 2007

Quotes brought to you courtesy of

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Share your opinions Mail: The Reader’s Voice Sauk Valley Media 3200 E. Lincolnway, P.O. Box 498 Sterling, IL 61081 Email: letters@saukvalley.com Fax: 815-625-9390 Website: Visit www.saukvalley.com Policy: Letters are to be no more than 300 words and must include the writer’s name, town and daytime telephone number, which we call to verify authorship. Individuals may write up to 12 letters a year.

expressed in letters and columns are those of the writers.

Saturday, December 31, 2016

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SV Weekend • A7

UNDERSTANDING ILLINOIS | GENERAL ASSEMBLY

A strategy to derail Madigan and cronies Put House Dems on the defensive for their support of the speaker

S

everal readers sharply disagreed with my recent column that took Gov. Bruce Rauner to task for his budget strategy, even criticism from a savvy, insider Chicago Democrat who said I was too tough on the governor.

I have apparently failed to differentiate for readers between Rauner’s objectives, which I support, and his strategy, which I believe has failed. I subscribe to the old Will Rogers adage: “If you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.”

I wish now I could have taken back that column before I sent it out, because I committed a cardinal sin of opinion writing: I didn’t propose an alternative strategy, which I offer herewith.

Let me stipulate that Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan has been in that role way too long and must go.

Indeed, Madigan may suffer of the dastardly faults Rauner has leveled at him, though he is not quite alone the antichrist.

Over his tenure as speaker, there have also been three Republican governors. It was also Republican legislative leaders who in the 1990s, when in power relatively briefly, changed the rules that gave Madigan, who simply continued those rules, many of his neardictatorial powers.

SPEAKING OF SINS, Madigan’s biggest has been to ossify the democratic process in Illinois.

Through his control, he alone can block absolutely any legislator’s bill, even amendment, from ever being heard in the House.

So he should go. Yet holding the budget hostage, which is of apparently no interest to Madigan, won’t make him go away.

Part of the governor’s strategy has been to pull liberal Democratic House members away from Speaker Madigan. The premise has been that

jimNOWLAN Jim Nowlan of Toulon served two terms in the Illinois House and worked under three governors.

He co-wrote “Fixing Illinois.”

the speaker’s unwillingness to compromise on a budget solution would cause intolerable harm to many of their often-poor constituents.

Rauner has not been successful in that as of yet, but he has accomplished one thing: The governor has scared the bejesus out of many Democratic House members, who fear being tarred in the next election by Rauner and his money for associating with Madigan.

I ran the traps of my savvy insider lobbyist friends, those who have been creating political strategies for their clients for years. I wanted to see what they would propose for Rauner to get him and us out of our present damaging

budget impasse.

But they had little to offer. They have never, in decades of observing, seen the kind of incredibly bitter, mano-a-mano stand-off between political leaders we have at present.

So, I have come up with my own two-track strategy for the governor: FIRST, propose a balanced budget, with necessary tax increases, that will stabilize the state’s fiscal situation over the coming years.

Rauner should, of course, blame Madigan, whom the governor has successfully vilified among the voting public, for the tax increases, based on Madigan’s 30-plus years of profligate misrule.

SECOND, propose “The Rauner Turnaround Manifesto” (or some such moniker) in which Rauner creates a voting scorecard for each Dem lawmaker.

The scorecards would be a high-powered version of the old “Friends of Labor” and “Friends of the Farm Bureau” score-

“The governor has scared the bejesus out of many Democratic House members, who fear being tarred in the next election by Rauner and his money for associating with Madigan.”

Jim Nowlan

Understanding Illinois columnist cards, which were influential in their day but are now probably irrelevant, as plutocratic big money has made parties and interest groups much less important.

Rauner and company would update the scorecard within each lawmaker’s district regularly – Rauner has shown he has the money to do this – as to how the lawmaker voted on each issue, to wit: • Voted for Madigan as speaker, yet again; • Voted for the House Rules that give Madigan dictatorial powers and block important legislation;

• Voted against term limits; • Voted against meaningful redistricting reform; • Voted against workers compensation reforms; • Voted against tort reform; • Voted against property tax freeze.

MADIGAN WOULD, of course, use parliamentary tricks to try to obfuscate such issues.

Yet Rauner’s forces in the House could seek to discharge their reform bills from the House speaker’s Rules Committee, efforts the Dems would oppose – at their re-election peril. This would give Rauner the capacity to use his limitless money to blacken his opponents widely in their districts.

This might either cause some Democratic House members to break with Rauner or, if they failed to come around, to weaken them so much they could be beaten in the 2018 elections.

Note to readers: Jim Nowlan of Toulon can be reached at jnowlan3@ gmail.com.

EDITORIALS ELSEWHERE

News reporting, dangerous in some areas, remains vital The Sun Sentinel Editorial Board Fort Lauderdale, Florida

While some in America celebrate the alleged demise of the “lame stream media,” it is crucial to remember that dictators and extremists benefit most when reporters are prevented from doing their jobs.

Such a reminder comes from the year-end report by the group Reporters Without Borders, which

has compiled a list showing that 74 professional and citizen journalists were killed in 2016.

“Some were killed while out reporting,” the group’s round-up says.

“Most were clearly the deliberately targeted victims of deadly violence.”

In fact, “Worldwide, nearly three quarters of the journalists killed in 2016 were deliberately murdered.” ...

It is no surprise that most of the deaths – as well as arrests and imprisonment – occur in countries riven by war and dominated by authoritarian factions and/or regimes. ...

No journalists were killed in America in 2016. ... But only a fool, or a friend of authoritarianism, would dismiss as unimportant the growing assaults on the free press in America, includ-

ing those by the country’s soon-to-be president.

Donald Trump has vilified the press at campaign rallies and continued the practice during “Thank You” tours even as he claims that he wants to unite the nation. He has suggested making it easier to squelch reporting by eliminating protections in libel laws. And Trump isn’t just talking.

He has restricted press

coverage of his activities and revoked credentials of media outlets whose coverage he did not like.

Not that President Barack Obama championed the free press. He restricted coverage of his administration’s activities and, more than any modern president, sought criminal charges against those involved in press leaks. It is chilling to think Trump could do worse. ...

This country still is blessed with a free press that citizens of places like Iran, Russia, Iraq, Turkey, China and Mexico only can dream about. Tension between the press and government is inevitable in countries where the free press does its job.

What is the tipping point between tension and violence, freedom and authoritarianism? Let’s not find out.

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A8 • SV Weekend Dilbert by Scott Adams

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, December 31, 2016

Zits® by Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman

Arlo & Janis by Jimmy Johnson Garfield by Jim Davis

Luann by Greg Evans Get Fuzzy by Darby Conley

Blondie by Dean Young & John Marshall

Wizard of Id by Brant Parker and Johnny Hart

Pearls Before Swine by Stephan Pastis Rose is Rose by Pat Brady and Don Wimmer

Pickles by Brian Crane Big Nate by Lincoln Peirce

Born Loser by Art and Chip Sansom

Baby Blues by Jerry Scott & Rick Kirkman

Soup To Nutz by Rick Stromoski

Family Circus by Bil Keane

The Argyle Sweater by Scott Hilburn

­­­Alley Oop by Dave Graue and Jack Bender

Bridge Frank & Ernest by Bob Thaves

Do not jump to your play

Grizzwells by Bill Schorr

First, I hope all of my readers have a very happy and healthy 2017.

Alfred North Whitehead, an English mathematician and philosopher, said, “If a dog jumps in your lap, it is because he is fond of you; but if a cat does the same thing, it is because your lap is warmer.”

I disagree, believing that the more time you put into your cats, the stronger their affection for you will be. But if you faced this deal at the bridge table, with no warning bell ringing, you would jump to defeat if you played too quickly.

South is in six hearts. After West leads the spade jack, what should declarer do?

South’s two-club rebid

was New Minor Forcing. It guaranteed at least game-invitational strength and asked opener to describe his hand further. Then, when North indicated three-card heart support, South jumped to six

hearts, giving the defenders no more information.

Declarer seems to have 12 easy tricks: two spades, five hearts, four diamonds and one club. It looks obvious to win with dummy’s spade ace and to draw two rounds of trumps.

If both opponents follow suit, South unblocks his diamond ace, draws the last trump with the heart queen and claims.

Here, though, the trumps break 4-1. Now declarer needs a dummy entry to reach the three diamond winners. What is it?

The entry has to be in spades, and that requires South to throw his spade queen under dummy’s ace at trick one.

Did you avoid jumping forward to trick two with undue haste? © 2016 UFS

Saturday, December 31, 2016 Dilbert by Scott Adams

www.saukvalley.com

SV Weekend • A9

Zits® by Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman

Arlo & Janis by Jimmy Johnson Garfield by Jim Davis

Luann by Greg Evans Get Fuzzy by Darby Conley

Blondie by Dean Young & John Marshall

Wizard of Id by Brant Parker and Johnny Hart

Pearls Before Swine by Stephan Pastis Rose is Rose by Pat Brady and Don Wimmer

Pickles by Brian Crane Big Nate by Lincoln Peirce

Born Loser by Art and Chip Sansom

Baby Blues by Jerry Scott & Rick Kirkman

Soup To Nutz by Rick Stromoski

Family Circus by Bil Keane

The Argyle Sweater by Scott Hilburn

­­­Alley Oop by Dave Graue and Jack Bender

Bridge Frank & Ernest by Bob Thaves

Last year’s best highlighted now

Grizzwells by Bill Schorr

Every year, the International Bridge Press Association selects prize winners in various categories. (I am one of the voting panel.)

The best-played deal of the year is unfortunately far too complicated for this column.

The strongest group, in my opinion, was defense. There were six entries worthy of winning, with one theme that occurred a few times – see if you can spot it as the week progresses.

In this deal, Frederic Volcker (East) and Thomas Bessis from France were defending against three no-trump.

West led his spade, and East covered with the 10. What happened after that? South had seven top tricks: two spades, three diamonds and

two clubs. Keeping a club miracle for later if necessary, declarer sensibly decided to play on hearts. He ducked the first trick, won the second with his spade queen (West discarded a diamond), played

a diamond to dummy’s jack and led a heart to his queen.

You or I would have taken that trick and, probably, returned a diamond. But Bessis played low smoothly, as if he had never heard of the ace.

South, suitably deceived, now led a low heart from his hand and played low from the board. East won with his jack and drove out the spade ace. South, still convinced that East had the heart ace, tried the club finesse, but East took that trick and cashed his spades for down two.

A clever, no-cost defense, but South should have realized that if East had kingjack-10-seventh of spades and the ace-jack of hearts, surely, even at unfavorable vulnerability, he would have opened one spade or three spades. © 2017 UFS

A10 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, December 31, 2016

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS

Cities nationwide take precautions Earlier attacks in Europe fuel police concerns Tribune News Service

As people nationwide prepare to pour into the streets on New Year’s Eve, law enforcement officials are preparing for possible terrorist attacks, a concern amplified by recent attacks at public celebrations overseas.

In New York, 65 sanitation trucks – weighted by 15 tons of sand – will dot city blocks tonight around the ball drop in Times Square. The trucks and 100 police cars, strategically placed at intersections in midtown Manhattan, are a new addition this year, law enforcement officials said.

“It is a changing world.

And we have to look around at what is going on not just in the United States, but all around the world,” New York Police Commissioner James O’Neill said at a news conference this week to discuss security preparations.

The sanitation trucks are meant to prevent attacks like those in Berlin this month and Nice, France, over the summer.

In Berlin, a man

hijacked a 40-ton truck and crashed it into an outdoor Christmas market, killing 12 people. The attack came 5 months after a cargo truck plowed into a crowd celebrating Bastille Day in Nice, killing 86 people.

Other cities around the country are taking similar precautions. In Southern California, law enforcement officials are trying to guard against large vehicle attacks at the Tournament of Roses Parade Sunday in Pasadena.

Pasadena police plan to use parked patrol cars and heavy water-filled barricades at more than 50 intersections along the parade’s route.

“When [attackers] use vehicles as a ramming tool, typically it’s because they’re able to generate a lot of speed. So we’re trying to take the speed out of that equation,” Pasadena Police Chief Phillip L. Sanchez said this week.

Several events are planned in the Atlanta metropolitan area today. The Peach Bowl Parade will blanket the streets of downtown and, according to Atlanta police, about 175,000 people are expected to attend the annual Peach Drop – an event similar to the festivities in Times Square.

AP

Pedestrians walk past New Year’s celebration balloons hanging on a metal barricade Friday in New York’s Times Square. Police officers in New York and elsewhere spent the week making preparations for possible terrorist attacks, a concern amplified by recent attacks at public celebrations overseas.

Law enforcement officials in Atlanta have faced terrorism firsthand.

During the 1996 Summer Olympics, a blast killed one person and injured more than 100 others.

In Las Vegas, where city officials estimate that about 300,000 people will celebrate the new year along the Strip, preparation has been going on

for several months.

Michael Rodriguez, a spokesman for the Las Vegas Police Department, said that in previous years, the department positioned barriers to prevent attacks in which trucks are used as weapons. The barriers will form at different junctures of the Strip, Rodriguez said.

“This is standard for us,” said Rodriguez, who declined to say what kind of barriers – or how many – the department will use.

While addressing the public this week, law enforcement officials in Las Vegas called on tourists to follow rules put in place for New Year’s Eve, which includes a ban on backpacks and glass bot-

tles. Rodriguez said about 1,000 uniformed officers will patrol the Strip Saturday night.

O’Neill, the New York police commissioner, said his department is working with the FBI and counterterrorism officials to ensure the safety of the nearly 2 million people expected to watch the ball drop.

PENNSYLVANIA

Cosby, a year later: Will he seek deal or prepare for trial?

Faces aggravated sexual assault charge, a felony NORRISTOWN, Pa. (AP) – Bill Cosby is starting 2017 in a legal dragnet that has only tightened around him since his stunning arrest a year ago.

Cosby was charged with aggravated sexual assault on Dec. 30, 2015, just days before the 12-year statute of limitations would have run out over a 2004 encounter at his estate near Philadelphia.

A year later, it’s increasingly unlikely that he can avoid a felony trial slated for June. The judge has denied nearly each defense motion as the two sides fight over Cosby’s deposition, other accusers and the decadelong delay in filing charges.

“It doesn’t sound like the prosecutors are inclined to give him a deal that will matter,” said Loyola Law School professor Laurie Levenson, who is not involved in the case. “It’s an elderly man, and any [jail sentence] is probably, in his

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A recent tabloid news report suggested a plea could be in the works, but Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele’s spokeswoman calls the report unfounded. Still, some celebrity lawyers don’t rule it out.

“Ultimately, I think they work something out.

Unfortunately, I don’t think it’s the deal he

wants,” said Los Angeles lawyer Mark Geragos, who represented Michael Jackson on child molestation charges. “If they can work out a felony with minimal time, I think he’d be wise to take it, given his age and infirmities.”

On Friday, his attorneys filed a motion seeking to move the trial or bring in a jury from elsewhere, arguing there’s been wide-

spread negative news coverage that would make juror bias inevitable.

Cosby’s lawyers said he has been the target of an “inflammatory and prejudicial smear campaign” and branded a monster, a sociopath and a sexual predator in news accounts.

A spokeswoman for the district attorney’s office said Steele has previously

told the judge and Cosby’s lawyers he does not oppose the request.

Cosby, 79 and legally blind, had appeared shaken last year as he maneuvered past the cameras that mobbed him outside the small court office where he posted $1 million bail after his arrest. But he now appears more comfortable in court after a half-dozen or so hearings.

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SV Weekend • A11

MONEY & MARKETS The following stock quotations, as of 5 p.m., are provided as a community service by Chad Weigle of Edward Jones, Dixon and Raymond James and Associates, Sterling.

Abbott........................... 38.41 Alcoa............................. 28.08 Alphabet Inc............... 792.45 AltriaCorp..................... 67.62 Amazon.com.............. 749.87 American Express........ 74.08 Apple........................... 115.85 Archer-Daniels............. 45.65 Arris-Group.................. 30.13 AT&T............................. 42.53 Autonation................... 48.65 Bank of America.......... 22.10 Boeing......................... 155.68 BorgWarner.................. 39.44 BP.................................. 37.38 Casey’s........................ 118.88 Caterpillar.................... 92.74 CenturyLink................. 23.78 Chevron...................... 117.70 Cisco............................. 30.22 Citigroup...................... 59.43 CocaCola...................... 41.46 ConAgra........................ 39.55 Dean............................. 21.78 Deere & Co................. 103.04 Disney......................... 104.22 Donaldson.................... 42.08 DuPont......................... 73.40 Exelon........................... 35.49 Exxon............................ 90.26 FifthThird..................... 26.97 Ford.............................. 12.13 GE................................. 31.60 HawaiianElectric......... 33.07

Hewlett Packard.......... 14.84 HomeDepot............... 134.08 Intel Corp..................... 36.30 Intl Bus Mach............. 165.99 IntlPaper....................... 53.06 JCPenney........................ 8.31 JohnsonControls......... 41.19 Johnson&Johnson..... 115.21 JPMorgan Chase.......... 86.29 Kraft-Heinz.................. 87.32 Kroger........................... 34.51 Leggett&Platt............... 48.88 Manpower.................... 88.87 McDonald’s................ 121.72 Merck&Co.................... 58.87 Microsoft...................... 62.16 MidlandStates.............. 36.18 3M............................... 178.57 Monsanto................... 105.21 Newell........................... 44.65 Nike............................... 50.83 Parker-Han................. 140.00 Pfizer............................. 32.48 Pepsico....................... 104.63 Proctor&Gamble.......... 84.08 RaymondJames............ 69.27 Republic....................... 57.05 Sears Hldg...................... 9.29 SensientTech............... 78.58 Sprint.............................. 8.42 Staples............................ 9.05 TheTravelers.............. 122.42 UnitedContinental...... 72.88 UnitedTech................ 109.62 USBancorp................... 51.37 USSteel......................... 33.01 Verizon......................... 53.38 Walgreen...................... 82.76 WalMartMexico........... 17.87 WalMartStores............. 69.12 WasteMgt..................... 70.91 Wendy’s........................ 13.52

Commodities The following quotations are provided as a community service by Sterling Futures: Corn: Mar. 3.52; May 3.571⁄2; Dec. 3.80 Soybeans: Jan. 9.961⁄2; Mar. 10.04; May 10.121⁄2 Soybean oil: Mar. 34.66 Jul. 35.13 Soybean meal: Mar. 316.60; Jul. 322.00 Wheat: Mar. 4.08; Jul. 4.341⁄4 Oats: Mar. 2.281⁄2; Jul. 2.293⁄4

Live cattle: Dec. 119.00; Feb. 116.05; Apr. 114.57 Feeder cattle: Jan. 130.45; Mar. 125.10 Lean hogs: Feb. 66.15; Apr. 68.07; Jun. 76.50 Sugar: Mar. 19.51 Cotton: Mar. 70.65 T-Bonds: Mar. 15011⁄32 Silver: Mar. 15.97 Gold: Feb. 1153.00 Copper: Mar. 2.504 Crude: Feb. 53.63 Dollar Index: Mar. 102.33 Ethanol: Mar. 1.559

OHIO

MOTHER OF CARRIE FISHER

Did Reynolds die of broken heart? Business exec was

pilot of plane that vanished over lake

Recognized medical condition affects women, can be fatal LOS ANGELES (AP) – Dying of a broken heart is real.

When Debbie Reynolds passed away this week, her son said the stress of his sister Carrie Fisher’s death the day before was too much for his mother to take.

The emotional distress of losing a loved one can trigger brokenheart syndrome, a recognized medical condition that disproportionately affects women and can be fatal.

“A ‘broken heart’ really is an event where the heart ceases to function normally and is prone to heart rhythm abnormalities,” said Dr. Mark Creager, director of the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Heart and Vascular Center in New Hampshire and past president of the American Heart Association.

“That term is used to explain a very real phenomenon that does occur

in patients who have been exposed to sudden emotional stress or extremely devastating circumstances.”

Known medically as stress-induced cardiomyopathy or takotsubo syndrome, it can strike anyone, even those in good health with no previous heart problems.

Reynolds, who suffered two strokes in 2015 but recovered, was taken by ambulance to a hospital the day after Fisher died.

“She said, ‘I want to be with Carrie,’” Reynolds’ son, Todd Fisher, told The Associated Press.

“And then she was gone.”

No cause of death has been disclosed for either woman.

Broken-heart syndrome is when a surge of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, cause arteries to seize, limiting blood flow to the heart. The experience – and diagnosis – is often confused with heart

AP

Carrie Fisher kisses her mother, Debbie Reynolds, as they arrive at an event in September 2011 in Los Angeles. On Friday, Reynolds’ son, Todd Fisher, said his mother and sister, who both died this week, will have a joint funeral and will be buried together at Forest Lawn Memorial Park cemetery in Los Angeles. attack, Creager said.

Both conditions look the same on an electrocardiogram, said cardiologist Dr. Holly Andersen, director of education for the heart institute at New York Presbyterian Hospital and scientific adviser for the Women’s Heart Alliance. But where heart attacks are caused by blocked arteries, there are no such blockages in “broken” hearts.

The condition can be treated, and even heal untreated, she said, but it can also cause heart arrhythmias and sudden death.

Japanese researchers were the first to describe broken-heart syndrome in 1990. They named it takotsubo, which means “octopus pot,” for the way the malfunctioning heart appears in imaging studies.

CLEVELAND (AP) – The chief executive of a beverage distribution company was piloting a plane carrying his wife, two sons and two other people when it quickly lost altitude after takeoff from Cleveland’s lakeshore airport and vanished from radar, according to his family and a flight-tracking service Friday.

Superior Beverage Group executive John T. Fleming was piloting the Columbus-bound plane when it disappeared late Thursday about 2 miles over Lake Erie, his parents and company confirmed.

The five other people on the plane were Fleming’s wife, Sue, teenage sons Jack and Andrew, a neighbor and the neighbor’s daughter, said John W. Fleming, the pilot’s father, and Joseph McHenry, an executive

vice president at Superior Beverage.

Crews combing Lake Erie for the plane on Friday remained hopeful that the occupants could be found alive, and were in searchand-rescue mode, not recovery mode, as they plied waters about 50 feet deep, said Capt.

Michael Mullen, the chief of response for the Ninth Coast Guard District.

Tracking service FlightAware logged only three location pings for the plane after takeoff from Burke Lakefront Airport, and the last one indicated rapid altitude loss.

Authorities have said there were no distress signals from the pilot.

The aircraft took off westward from Burke, then turned north across the lake, according to the tracking service flightradar24.com.

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A12 • SV Weekend

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Saturday, December 31, 2016

U.S.-RUSSIAN RELATIONS

MARKETS | YEAR IN REVIEW

Russia brushes off Obama

Stocks notched big gains despite an early stumble

Putin declines to retaliate for sanctions put on by president HONOLULU (AP) – Stung by new punishments, Russia is looking straight past President Barack Obama to Donald Trump in hopes the president-elect will reverse the tough U.S. stance toward Moscow of the past 8 years. In a stunning embrace of a longtime U.S. adversary, Trump is siding with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Whether Trump steers the U.S. toward or away from Russia upon taking office is shaping up as the first major test of his foreign policy disposition and his willingness to buck fellow Republicans, who for years have argued Obama wasn’t tough enough. Now that Obama has finally sanctioned Russia over hacking allegations, Putin has essentially put relations on hold till Trump takes over.

“Great move on delay (by V. Putin),” Trump wrote Friday on Twitter. “I always knew he was very smart!”

He was referring to Putin’s announcement that Russia won’t immediately retaliate after Obama ordered sanctions on Russian spy agencies, closed two Russian compounds and expelled 35 diplomats the U.S. said were really spies.

Brushing off Obama, Putin said Russia would plan steps to restore U.S. ties “based on the policies that will be carried out by the administration of President D. Trump.”

The Obama administration said it had seen Putin’s remarks but had nothing more to say.

BY ALEX VEIGA AP Business Writer

AP

A fence encloses an estate in the village of Upper Brookville in the town of Oyster Bay, New York, on Long Island. On Friday, the Obama administration closed this compound for Russian diplomats, in retaliation for spying and cyber-meddling in the U.S. presidential election.

U.S. shuts 2 Russian compounds CENTREVILLE, Md. (AP) – Two luxury retreats in New York and Maryland where Russian diplomats have gone for decades to play tennis, sail and swim were shut down by the Obama administration Friday in retaliation for Moscow’s cyber-meddling in the presidential election.

The U.S. said the two Cold War-era estates were being used for intelligence activities.

About a half-hour before the noon eviction deadline, caravans of diplomatic vehicles, some carrying boxes, left both Russian compounds under the watch of U.S. State Department agents.

The 45-acre Maryland retreat boasts a brick mansion along the Cor-

sica River in the bucolic Eastern Shore region. It was bought by the Soviet Union in 1972 and served as a getaway for its diplomats in nearby Washington.

In New York, Russian diplomatic staff members were evicted from a mansion on Long Island’s Gold Coast. The estate, once called Elmcroft, is in the town of Oyster Bay and was purchased by the Soviets in 1952.

Russian U.N. Ambassador Vitaly Churkin told reporters at U.N. headquarters that the Obama administration is destroying holiday fun for the children of Russian diplomats who vacation at the two retreats during their New Year’s break.

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dalous that they chose to go after our kids,” Churkin said. He added: “Here go their family values.”

President Barack Obama announced the shutdown Thursday as part of a raft of sanctions that included the expulsion of 35 Russians who the U.S. said were spies operating under diplomatic cover.

Neighbors of both compounds described generally friendly relations with the diplomats and their families.

“We coexist with these people peacefully,” said Alison Davis, who lives near the Maryland retreat.

“It’s basically their summer cottage, but we see the diplomat tags driving here all the time, very friendly. We see them biking, say hello.”

In a year with no shortage of surprises and stomach-churning turns in the market, stock investors can feel pretty good about 2016.

Wall Street repeatedly bounced back from steep slumps, including the worst start to any year for stocks, the second correction for the market in 5 months, and investor fears of a global slowdown. It also weathered plummeting oil prices and the surprising outcomes of Britain’s vote to leave the European Union and Donald Trump’s U.S. presidential election win.

A turnaround in company earnings growth, more stable oil prices, a steadily improving U.S. economy and job market all helped keep the market on an upward trajectory.

More recently, investor optimism that the Republican election sweep will usher in a bevy of business-friendly policies spurred the market to new heights.

“It’s been the year of the unlikely happening, but the crazy thing about the unlikely happening is you would expect that to lead to big sell-offs, and we experienced the exact opposite,” said J.J. Kinahan, TD Ameritrade’s chief strategist.

“The more things happened that were unlikely, the more we seemed to rally.”

The Standard & Poor’s 500 index, the broadest

2016 market performance S&P 500 +9.5% Dow Jones +13.4% Nasdaq +7.5% Russell 2000 +19.5% Source: AP

measure of the stock market, closed out the year with a gain of 9.5 percent after an essentially flat finish in 2015.

Including dividends, the total return was 11.96 percent. That means if you invested $1,000 in an S&P 500 index fund at the beginning of the year, you’d wind up with slightly less than $1,119.60 at the end of the year, after expenses.

Other major market indexes also delivered solid gains. The Dow Jones industrial average gained 13.4 percent, a surge that briefly had the 30-company average flirting with crossing the 20,000 mark.

The Nasdaq composite notched a 7.5 percent gain.

Small-company stocks trounced the rest of the market, however, especially since the election.

The Russell 2000 index soared 19.5 percent in 2016.

Investors anticipate that smaller companies will benefit more from an improving U.S. economy than their larger rivals because they tend to do far more of their business domestically.

For the most part, markets overseas also fared better than in 2015.

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v weekend

Section B

Alleman tops Newman for title, B4.

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Sauk Valley Sports

On the hot seat?

ESPN reports that rumors in the coaching ranks have the Bulls’ Fred Hoiberg in danger of losing his job after a rocky start to 2016. Hoiberg has guaranteed money left on his 5-year, $25 million contract.

2

Saturday, December 31, 2016

Numbers game Rock Falls had 2 players make the all-tournament teams at the State Farm Classic: Logan Pillars & Abbee Sigel. Pillars scored 75 points in 4 games, & Sigel finished with 60 points in 4 games.

Sports for the Sauk Valley fan!

YEAR IN REVIEW | 2016 | TOP 10 LOCAL SPORTS STORIES

1. Schwarz conquers Class 2A Dixon sophomore thrower wins discus title, takes second in state in shot put

E

ven before she got to Dixon High School, Tayla Schwarz was already the stuff of legends. After winning titles at the IESA state meet for Reagan Middle School, the thrower was expected to do great things for

the Duchesses.

She hasn’t disapppointed. After breaking school records in the shot put and discus as a freshman, Schwarz spent her entire sophomore season last spring winning the events at meets all over the area.

When she got to Charleston for

the Class 2A state meet in May, she was ready for a prime-time performance – and she delivered in a big way.

Schwarz was atop the leaderboard in the discus from the getgo, and was also in prime position to sweep the state titles in both throwing events.

Schwarz easily took the discus with a toss of 145 feet, 8 inches, a new 2A state record by nearly 2 feet. She also took second in the shot with a put of 43-3 3/4, making her the first Sauk Valley area athlete to finish in the top 2 at state in both throwing events in the same year.

MORE INSIDE | OUR FAVORITE MOMENTS, B2 | THE REST OF THE TOP STORIES, B3 AP TOP SPORTS STORY OF 2016

No more curse for Cubs

BY JAY COHEN AP Sports Writer

CHICAGO – Everything changed for the Chicago Cubs on a rainy November night. A century-plus worth of heartache washed away by a wave of pure joy.

There were hugs, cheers and tears – and bottles and bottles of booze, sprayed everywhere from Cleveland to the shadow of Wrigley Field.

Lovable losers, no more. The story of so many lifetimes is The Associated Press’ Sports Story of the Year.

“The burden has been lifted,”

Sports inside

manager Joe Maddon said.

The Cubs’ first World Series title since 1908 is the runaway winner for top sports story of 2016, collecting 48 of 59 firstplace votes and 549 points in balloting by AP members and editors.

The death of Muhammad Ali after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease was second with 427 points, and LeBron James leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to the franchise’s first NBA title took third with 425 points.

In a year that seemed to be more about what we lost (Ali,

Arnold Palmer, Gordie Howe, Pat Summitt, Jose Fernandez, and the plane crash that killed most of the Brazilian club soccer team Chapecoense) than the winners on the field, the Cubs provided a feel-good moment that warmed at least the north side of Chicago well into the city’s notoriously brutal winter.

They drew huge ratings throughout the playoffs, with much of the country tuning in to see if it finally was the year.

It was.

NBA/NHL

OUTDOORS

Both Bulls & Blackhawks lose on the road, B5.

CatMatt fishing out of state, B5.

CUBS continued on B24

Suggestion box Comment or story tip?

Contact the Sports Department at sports@saukvalley.com or call 815-625-3600, ext. 5555

Top of 2

On the field Tony Romo Cowboys QB will see playing time Sunday against the Eagles as Dallas has 3 QBs (Romo, Dak Prescott and Mark Sanchez) active.

Local events

Saturday Girls bowling 9 a.m.

• Oregon at Geneseo Invitational

Wrestling 10 a.m.

• AFC, Hall, Farmington at Kewanee

On the tube TV listings

Saturday College football 10 a.m.

• Citrus Bowl, Louisville vs.

LSU, ABC • TaxSlayer Bowl, Georgia Tech vs. Kentucky, ESPN 2:10 p.m.

• College Football Playoff semifinal, Alabama vs.

Washington, ESPN 6:10 p.m.

• College Football Playoff semifinal, Clemson vs.

Ohio St., ESPN

Men’s basketball 10 a.m.

• Xavier at Georgetown, FS1 11 a.m.

• Tennessee St. at Murray St., CBSSN • Duke at Virginia Tech, ESPN2 • Houston at South Florida, ESPNU • Indiana State at Missouri State, CSN 11:30 a.m.

• Indiana vs. Louisville, at Indianapolis, CBS Noon

• Villanova at Creighton, FS1 1 p.m.

• UConn at Tulsa, CBSSN • Florida St. at Virginia, ESPNU 3 p.m.

• Temple at UCF, ESPNU

Women’s basketball 11 a.m.

• Penn St. at Rutgers, BTN 2 p.m.

• Ohio St. at Indiana, CBS

NBA 6 p.m.

• Bucks at Bulls, NBA

Rugby 11:30 a.m.

• English Premiership, Bath vs. Exeter (same-day tape), NBCSN Soccer 6 a.m.

• Scottish Premier League, Rangers vs. Celtic, FS1 9 a.m.

• Premier League, Stoke City at Chelsea, CNBC 11:30 a.m.

• Premier League, Manchester City at Liverpool, NBC

Sunday Men’s basketball 11 a.m.

• Nebraska at Maryland, BTN 11:30 a.m.

• Syracuse at Boston College, ESPNU 1 p.m.

• St. John’s at DePaul, FS1 1:15 p.m.

• Michigan at Iowa, BTN 1:30 p.m.

• Penn St. at Rutgers, ESPNU 2 p.m.

• Providence at Butler, CBSSN 3:30 p.m.

• Minnesota at Purdue, BTN • Marquette at Seton Hall, FS1 4 p.m.

• New Mexico at San Diego St., CBSSN 5:30 p.m.

• Colorado at Utah, ESPNU 6 p.m.

• Ohio St. at Illinois, BTN

Robert Mathis Colts LB will retire after Sunday’s game, ending a 14-year career that saw him named to 6 Pro Bowls and win a Super Bowl.

Your guide to what’s going on in sports

B2 • SV Weekend On the calendar

Retiring

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, December 31, 2016

YEAR IN REVIEW | 2016 | MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS

On the tube

Embarassment of riches

TV listings

In a year full of great feats, here’s what stood out to us

• Alabama at South Carolina, ESPN2

This past calendar year has been a veritable treasure trove of memorable moments supplied by our local athletes. While there are far too many amazing games and standout performances to go into each and every one, here are some that really stuck in the minds of us here at SVM:

2 p.m.

• LSU at Mississippi St., SEC 3 p.m.

• Kentucky at Tennessee, ESPN2 Football Noon

• High School, Under Armour All-America Game, at Orlando, Fla., ESPN

NFL Noon

• Patriots at Dolphins, CBS • Bears at Vikings, FOX 3:25 p.m.

• Raiders at Broncos, CBS • Giants at Redskins, FOX Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com

Hannah Escamilla’s diving catch for the final out capped an instant classic softball game between rivals Sterling and Rock Falls in the 3A Rochelle Regional championship last May. the seventh, a Rock Falls batter popped up a foul down the left-field line.

With the Sterling dugout blocking the view of most of the Warriors’ fans, senior Hannah Escamilla chased it down on a dead sprint, dove toward the fence, and fully laid out to make the catch and finish off the victory, as shortstop Erin Stroup leapt over her to not only avoid the collision, but in celebration as well.

Eric Ingles Eastland’s run to the state final in volleyball had a few memorable twists and turns.

The quest for a repeat ultimately fell short, thanks to a West Prairie comeback in the Class 1A state championship game.

But the Cougars never would have been in Redbird Arena if not for a comeback of their own on their home floor a week earlier.

In the sectional final, the Cougars met up with Galena, the team that beat them in two sets in the regular-season finale to deny the Cougars the NUIC crown.

Eastland got a rematch in Lanark and cruised to a win in the first set before falling behind 15-8 in the second set.

The Cougars got a few points here and there and cut the lead to three before Galena extended it back out to six.

Then Makenzie Fink took over. Fink had a kill to cut the Galena lead to 19-16, then another, then another. Of the final 14 points in the match, nine were Fink kills, including five of the last six.

One of her hits went off a dig attempt with so much force it sailed into the rafters of the Eastland gym. Her 19th kill of the match was the last, a hit from the back row off a

set from Ashley Beyers; Galena had no chance to get a dig on it.

Brian Weidman My most memorable game to cover was the Class 2A Fulton Regional baseball semifinal between Morrison and Fulton on May 18.

The Steamers ended up edging their Three Rivers Conference rivals 2-1 in 10 innings, but that by itself is not what made it so memorable. It was the pitching performances turned in by the team’s starters, Devon Ballard of Fulton and Joey Brackemyer of Morrison.

Ballard went the distance, allowing one unearned run and six hits, with 15 strikeouts and eight walks. He threw an amazing 177 pitches.

Brackemeyer lasted eight innings, allowing one earned run and four hits, with 12 strikeouts and eight walks. He threw 159 pitches.

Both pitchers had committed to play baseball at Sauk Valley Community College, and Skyhawks coach Chris Davis was in attendance. He began asking for pitch counts around the sixth inning, and asked several more times as the game wore on.

When the game finally ended, it was past 10 o’clock, and I had to hustle to get a story and box score done in a reasonable amount of time.

I accomplished that at the Shell station on the east end of Fulton, and the night crew stayed a bit longer than they would have liked as I wrapped things up.

The lengthy duel between Ballard and Brackemyer will not be repeated by others, as pitch limits for high school hurlers across the nation have been implemented. In Illinois, it

became official on Dec. 12. Next season, pitchers will be limited to 105 pitches each game.

Cody Cutter The state cross country meet is the one constant event that I have covered during my fall sports seasons at SVM. This season had plenty of local hype on the cross country scene, and November 5 was the culmination of it all.

It was a banner day for local runners: Rock Falls’ Brayden Hamblen became the first local runner to win a state cross country championship in the 1A boys race, Newman’s Chris Ahlers (1A) and Sterling’s Jake Gebhardt (2A) finished in seventh place in their respective races, Sterling’s Dewey Landis finished 17th in 2A, and Bureau Valley’s Haley Weidner finished 18th in the 1A girls race. It was the first time five local runners finished in the top 20 since 2008, and 1981 was the only other year that happened.

The final stretch of the 1A boys race saw Athens’ Wyatt McIntyre lead a charging Hamblen into the final quartermile. Hamblen took the lead 50 yards into the straightaway and held on for the win, pointing to the sky before crossing the finish line.

It might not have happened if Hamblen hadn’t called an audible to his plans with 1 mile left. Instead of kicking it then, Hamblen – who will run for the University of Illinois next year – waited until the right moment to make his move.

Before all of that took place, Hamblen pulled away from the only runner to beat him all season: Hinckley-Big Rock’s Tanner Chada.

The story of a lifetime on the North Side CUBS

CONTINUED FROM B1

t “I think a lot of casual fans were initially drawn to the Cubs in the postseason because of the 108-year drought and the curse narrative,” president of baseball operations Theo Epstein said. “But when they tuned in, they saw a talented team full of young, exciting players who are also team-first, high-character people.”

As baseball stories go, the 2016 Cubs had it all.

One last stand for David Ross, a retiring catcher who became a key figure

Noon

• George Washington at Duquesne, CBSSN • Georgia at Missouri, SEC 1 p.m.

By SVM Sports Staff

Ty Reynolds There’s very little in sports like a pressurepacked postseason game to get the juices flowing. Throw in a longstanding rivalry, and you have the makings of an instant classic.

Last spring in the Class 3A Rochelle Regional softball championship, the stage was set for an epic showdown. Sterling was packed with talent and experience, and was eyeing a trip to the state tournament.

Rock Falls boasted a strong pitching staff, an offense that had found ways to get the job done, and a defense that just made plays.

What ensued was one of the most enjoyable softball games I’ve ever watched. Rock Falls pitcher Payton Yanes twirled a three-hitter, stifling a potent Sterling offense that just couldn’t figure out the freshman. The Golden Warriors countered with starter Lexy Staples and reliever Jayme Eilers, who combined for a fivehitter without a walk and struck out nine.

The defenses were also on their game, as the outfielders for both teams came up with clutch catch after clutch catch, and the infield was rock solid and made all the routine plays.

But Sterling found just enough offense to keep its state hopes alive.

Senior Shannon Long bunted for a single to lead off the third inning, then stole second on the next pitch. After a popout, Long stole third when Nadia Trujillo faked a bunt. Trujillo then lined the next pitch to left field, and Long tagged up and raced home without a throw on the sacrifice fly.

Neither team was able to scratch across anything more. Yanes extricated herself from a jam in the bottom of the sixth to keep the Rockets’ deficit at one run.

But a senior-laden Sterling squad was not to be denied, and one more highlight-reel play added to the game’s lore. With two outs in the top of

Women’s basketball

in Chicago’s clubhouse.

Loads of bright young stars, with Kris Bryant turning in an MVP performance. An eccentric personality in Maddon, who cemented his status as one of the game’s best managers.

There was history, for the franchise and its front office, with Epstein helping end two of baseball’s biggest droughts. See Boston Red Sox, 2004.

That would have been enough to make it one of the top sports stories of any year, but an epic finish only added to the luster of the franchise’s third championship.

The Cubs dropped three of the first four games in the World Series against the Indians, and then rallied to force Game 7 in Cleveland.

After Chicago blew a 6-3 lead late in the finale, outfielder Jason Heyward got his teammates together during a short rain delay before the top of the 10th. The Cubs caught their breath, and then finished off the famed Billy Goat Curse with an 8-7 victory that will live on in the bars of Wrigleyville for many years to come.

“The players-only meeting during the rain delay was emblematic

of this team,” Epstein said. “Instead of lamenting the blown lead or pointing fingers, the players rallied around one another and picked each other up.”

A day after Game 7, a hungover and hungry crew of Epstein, general manager Jed Hoyer and a couple friends were back at Wrigley Field when they decided to get something to eat. The main dish was fitting.

“We enjoyed some warm goat and cold beer,” Epstein said.

“It was a nice way to celebrate and flush the whole curse narrative once and for all.”

7:20 p.m.

• Packers at Lions, NBC

NHL 2 p.m.

• Centennial Classic, Red Wings at Maple Leafs, NBC

Premier League soccer 10 a.m.

• Crystal Palace at Arsenal, NBCSN

Monday College football Noon

• Outback Bowl, Florida vs.

Iowa, at Tampa, Fla., ABC • Cotton Bowl, Wisconsin vs. W. Michigan, at Arlington, Texas, ESPN 4 p.m.

• Rose Bowl, Penn State vs. USC, at Pasadena, Calif., ESPN 7:30 p.m.

• Sugar Bowl, Auburn vs. Oklahoma, at New Orleans, ESPN

Men’s basketball 8 p.m.

• Louisiana-Lafayette at UALR, ESPN2

Women’s basketball 5:30 p.m.

• Seton Hall at Butler, FS1 6 p.m.

• St. John’s at Xavier, CBSSN • Louisville at Duke, ESPNU • Vanderbilt at Texas A&M, SEC 7:30 p.m.

• Creighton at Marquette, FS1 8 p.m.

• Providence at DePaul, CBSSN NBA 7 p.m.

• Hornets at Bulls, CSN

NHL Noon

• Winter Classic, Blackhawks vs. Blues, at Busch Stadium, NBC

Premier League soccer 6:30 a.m.

• Leicester City at Middlesbrough, NBCSN 9 a.m.

• Liverpool at Sunderland, NBCSN 11:15 a.m.

• Manchester United at West Ham, NBCSN

Let us hear it • Game results, story tips, athlete of the week nominations, team and individual stats can be faxed to 815-625-9390, called into 815-625-3600, ext. 5554, or e-mailed to sports@saukvalley.com.

Contact us at 815-625-3600 Sports Editor Ty Reynolds, ext. 5554 treynolds@saukvalley.com Assistant Sports Editor Eric Ingles, ext. 5555 eingles@saukvalley.com Sports Reporters Cody Cutter, ext. 5552 ccutter@saukvalley.com Adam Feiner, ext. 5550 afeiner@saukvalley.com Brian Weidman, ext. 5551 bweidman@saukvalley.com

Saturday, December 31, 2016

www.saukvalley.com

SV Weekend • B3

YEAR IN REVIEW | 2016 | TOP 10 LOCAL SPORTS STORIES OF YEAR

November 5, 2016

Fall 2016

November 12, 2016

2. Rock Falls’ 3. Sterling & 4. Eastland takes Brayden Hamblen Newman football second at state wins state title both go 9-0 volleyball

W

hen Brayden Hamblen left Detweiller Park after placing third as a junior in 2015, he was determined to get back to the state cross countey meet the next year and leave without having finished behind anybody else.

Just 363 days later, the Rock Falls senior made it happen. He passed Athens’ Wyatt McIntire in the final quarter-mile to become the first Sauk Valley area runner to win an individual state title in cross country.

After winning every race all season, he placed second behind Hinckley-Big Rock’s Tanner Chada at the sectional meet, although he was a bit under the weather for that race. A week later, he was completely healthy and outran the field to win the Class 1A state championship.

T

he expectations were definitely high heading into the season, but the Sterling Golden Warriors were bound and determined to live up to them and make a name for themselves in the lore of a football program already steeped in tradition.

The tradition-rich Newman Comets didn’t have as much hype heading into 2016, but showed the mettle they have been known for through the years.

It wasn’t always easy for either team, but Sterling’s two high school combined for a perfect 18-0 run through the regular season, and pushed that record to 22-0 with lopsided victories in the first two rounds of the playoffs.

Though both teams lost in the quarterfinals, 2016 will likely be remembered as the year the high schools of Sterling didn’t suffer a regular-season loss.

February 20, 2016

A

fter losing seven starters to graduation and the only coach the program had ever known, there were very few people who expected the Eastland volleyball team to finish the 2016 season in the same place they ended 2015.

But thanks to stars Makenzie Fink & Ashley Beyers, an inexperienced supporting cast that was eager to show what it could do, and a knowledgeable first-year head coach who had played at SIU-Edwardsville & had plenty of state tournament experience as a player – Mt. Pulaski advanced there in each of her four seasons playing there in the early 2000s – the Cougars made a run to the Class 1A state tournament for the second straight season and brought home the runner-up trophy.

November 19, 2016

Feb. & Nov. 2016

6. Skyhawks 5th 7. Locals 3rd at 5. Fleetwood wins title at 106 at NJCAA tourney state swim meets

T

here’s a short list of Fulton wrestlers that got a little longer last February. Thensophomore Tyler Fleetwood became the third Steamer to win a state title, as he claimed the 106-pound championship. He joined Matt Kuebel (215-pound champ in 1998) & Butch Wingett (105-pound champ in 1974).

T

he Sauk Valley volleyball team had been to the NJCAA national tournament before; this time, it wanted to make some noise. The Skyhawks made the most of their second straight trek to nationals, rolling to fifth place behind a heavily local roster led by AllAmericans Bailey O’Brien & Tressa Schuler.

August 26, 2016

T

he state meets were nearly 9 months apart, but they were both memorable for the Sauk Valley. Dixon’s Caleb Carlson, swimming for the Byron co-op, placed third in the 200 IM & 10th in the 100 breaststroke in February. In November, Sterling diver Kallie Zuidema matched that third-place finish.

November 21, 2016

November 5, 2016

8. Rockets snap 9. Bothe resigns 10. Sterling plays at Oregon in supersectional long losing streak

T

he Rock Falls football team made their goals for 2016 well-known: get back to the playoffs for the first time since 1992.

First, the Rockets needed to stop the longest losing streak in program history – and they wasted no time, snapping the 25-game skid in Week 1 against Rockford Christian.

I

n a move that took many of us by surprise, Oregon football coach John Bothe resigned after 18 years of leading the Hawks. Even with a 2-7 record this fall, Bothe still finished with a .569 winning percentage (112-85), including 12 playoff apperances & a Class 3A state runner-up finish in 2000.

T

here were a lot of new faces in Sterling volleyball uniforms this season, but one constant remained for the Golden Warriors: NIU recruit Kaylee Martin. After finding their groove as a team, the Warriors rolled to the 3A supersectional for the second time in 3 years, & fourth time in program history.

B4 • SV Weekend

LOCAL SPORTS

Saturday, December 31, 2016

BOYS BASKETBALL | NEWMAN CHRISTMAS CLASSIC | CHAMPIONSHIP

Pioneers knock off Comets Alleman defense pressures Newman in tourney title game

BY CODY CUTTER ccutter@saukvalley.com 815-625-3600, ext. 5552 @CodyCutter35

STERLING – The Newman Comets, the area’s final unbeaten boys basketball team heading into Christmas, won’t be headed into 2017 with a perfect slate.

In the final game of the Newman Christmas Classic against fellow tournament unbeaten Alleman, the Pioneers’ swarming defense was too much for the Comets to execute their offense against throughout much of their 52-50 loss on Friday.

The pressure man defense of the Pioneers (9-7) was in sync enough to make the Comets try shots at spots that they weren’t used to making them. Newman (131) made only 7 of 26 field goal tries in the first half, and didn’t fare any better when pushed behind the arc, making just 2 of 15 longrange tries.

“We didn’t shoot well, but sometimes you have to give the other team credit for that,” Newman coach Ray Sharp said. “Their defensive pressure – that was the most physical game we’ve played all year, and the toughest defense we’ve seen all year.”

“That was the most physical game we’ve played all year,” Newman senior Brady Osborne said. “They were really up in our faces and really pressuring. They played really great defense.

We just hadn’t seen it yet.”

Newman had to play without 3-year starter Eli Leffelman throughout much of the first half after he picked up two fouls in the first 6 minutes. Alleman broke a tie at 9 with Ryan Hodge’s second 3 of the quarter, then cruised through the second quarter, outscoring Newman 20-10.

“They’re a hell of a shooting team,” Alleman coach Pat Rangel said. “We knew they were making some, but we just wanted to make them move off their marks.

It helped that [Leffelman] got in foul trouble, because it took away some of that

Alleman 52, Newman 50 Star of the game: Nathan Graves, Alleman, 19 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals Key performers: Ryan Hodge, Alleman, 14 points, 4 3-pointers, 4 assists; Eli Leffelman, Newman, 12 points, 4 rebounds; Brady Osborne, Newman, 6 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals; John Wilson, Newman, 8 points, 4 steals, 4 assists Up next: Rock Falls Shootout, Newman vs.

Reed-Custer, 3:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 7

Michael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com

Newman’s Devon House (left) and Alleman’s Nathan Graves reach for a rebound off the Comets’ hoop during the first quarter of Friday night’s championship game at the Newman Christmas Classic. The Comets lost 52-50. penetration that we were also worried about.”

Hodge added two more 3s, and Nathan Graves added a steal-and-drive to put Alleman up 21-10 with 5:47 to go in the second quarter.

Newman closed that gap to five points, but Graves and Andrew Barrett each made big plays to maintain the tempo.

Barrett pulled down two offensive rebounds in succession before putting his second one back in, and Graves nabbed a steal, broke free, and threw down a onehanded dunk to re-establish the 11-point lead at 24-15.

“We really picked up the energy in the second quarter,” Graves said. “We kind

of brought it down for some reason there in the second half, but we held it together at the end of the game.”

Newman increased the pressure of their 1-3-1 zone defense in the fourth quarter. John Wilson came up with three steals within 6 minutes, and capitalized on a Brady Osborne steal with about 2 minutes to go. His fast-break bucket narrowed the Alleman lead to 48-44.

The gap was narrowed to three points at 50-47 with 1:24 left on Ethan Hafner’s left-corner 3.

“They had a lot of pressure and we couldn’t really run anything,” Wilson said. “The second half, we were able to get a lot of fast-break points

with our 1-3-1 and gave them the pressure back.”

Needing a 3 to tie, Cade Gorzny’s attempt from the left wing missed and was rebounded by the Pioneers.

Graves had the ball in the paint and missed a shot, but put back his own rebound for a five-point lead with about 20 seconds left to play.

Osborne missed a 3 with 5.2 seconds left, and Kyle Schmitt’s buzzer-beating 3 was too late to preserve Newman’s unbeaten season.

“Newman had all the momentum,” Rangel said.

“They were really dictating the tempo there, and had us on our heels. We did just enough of what it takes. I would have liked to finish better and taken care of the basketball more, but we just held on there.”

Despite only playing three quarters, Leffelman led Newman with 12 points.

Schmitt finished with 10 points. Osborne led the Comets with five rebounds, and Wilson led with four steals.

“We’d rather take a loss now than in the postseason,” Wilson said. “It’s a great thing to learn from. If we play the whole game like we did in that second half, I don’t think there can be a team that can beat us. That’s a little far-fetched, but if we play as a team, we can definitely be an elite team.”

BOYS BASKETBALL | NEWMAN CHRISTMAS CLASSIC

Oregon no match for Ridgewood Hawks struggle to hit shots in loss

BY ADAM FEINER afeiner@saukvalley.com 815-625-3600, ext. 5550 @AdamFeinerSVM

STERLING – The Oregon Hawks ran into an offensive buzz saw Wednesday night in a 64-39 loss to Ridgewood in their final contest of the Newman Christmas Classic.

The Spartans shot just under 54 percent (28-for52) in the game, while the Hawks shot just 38 percent (15-for-39).

“I thought we did compete hard for a stint,” Oregon head coach Quinn Virgil said. “Our turnovers and shots not falling didn’t help.

We needed to shoot the ball really well to keep it close.

We did early, then didn’t do much later on. It’s just something we need to spend a lot of time in the gym with.”

No play defined the game quite as well as the final possession of the third quarter. Ridgewood forward Max Nuckles had no place to go on the baseline. He’d already picked up his dribble because of solid post defense by an Oregon defender, and knew he had to hoist up a shot as the Spartan bench counted down.

With no good angle at the rim, Nuckles let the ball fly.

Somehow the ball kissed off the backboard and swished through the net to make it 52-25 Ridgewood at the end of three. It was that kind of night for the Spartans.

The Hawks did hit their shots in the opening quarter.

Warriors take tourney title at Taylorville Dukes lose consolation championship at Plano

By SVM Sports Staff

The Sterling Golden Warriors trailed at halftime and trailed at the end of three quarters, but rallied in the fourth quarter to beat Mt. Zion 62-59 on Friday, winning the championship of the Taylorville tournament.

Down 29-22 at halftime, Sterling scored 20 points in the third quarter and 20 more in the fourth.

Juan-Antonio Gomez led the Golden Warriors with 15 points. Ryan Blackburn added 13, and Myles Williams scored 12.

Jonah Smith scored 29 points for Mt. Zion.

Sterling 69, Taylorville 50: Dimitric Young scored 21 points in a win over Taylorville to put the Golden Warriors in the championship game. He scored 16 of those points in the second half as Sterling broke open what had been a one-point game at halftime.

Williams added 14 points. Reid Blackburn had eight rebounds to lead the Golden Warriors, and Ryan Blackburn grabbed seven.

Jack Livingston was 5-for-10 from 3-point range to lead Taylorville with 15 points.

Plano tournament Lisle 50, Dixon 37: The Dukes were just 12-for-47 from the field in a loss to the Lions in the consolation championship game at the Plano tournament.

Adam Blackburn paced Dixon with 11 points, and David Whitcombe added nine.

Lisle’s Josh Jamison turned in a doubledouble with 16 points and 14 rebounds, and Mark McGrath added 12 points.

Erie tournament Erie 57, Bureau Valley 42: The Cardinals jumped in front early and cruised to a win to close out their run in their own tournament.

Erie led 17-8 after one quarter and 31-13 at halftime. Kale Orman knocked down four 3-pointers and scored 22 points for the Cardinals, and Eric Miller added 13 points.

Corbin Endress scored 13 points for the Storm.

Morrison 47, Peoria Heights 45, OT:

Nick Klimson was deadly from long range with four 3-pointers and 16 points in Morrison’s overtime win at the Warkins Cardinal Classic.

The Mustangs trailed by four at halftime, but evened things up in the second half. Morrison outscored the Patriots 7-5 in overtime.

Bryce Smith and Ben Brackemeyer contributed 12 points apiece.

Isaac Ponce led the Patriots with 15 points.

GIRLS BASKETBALL State Farm Classic Bloomington Central Catholic 57, Rock Falls 51: The Rockets trailed 40-29 after

three quarters before scoring 22 points in the fourth, but the comeback bid fell short in the third-place game of the State Farm Classic.

Olivia Babcock scored 14 points for Rock Falls. Taylor Hoefler and Abbee Sigel each scored 10.

Erie tournament Knoxville 51, Erie 48: Taylor Steimle had 14 points and Riley Redell added 11 for the Cardinals in a loss to the Blue Bullets at the Warkins Cardinal Classic.

Lauren Kavanagh paced Knoxville with 20 points, and Chloe Palmer added 13.

Morrison 50, Galva 41: Emma Sitzmore scored 12 points, while Jaeden Workman and Kassidee Church added nine each as the Fillies topped the Wildcats at Erie.

Grace Clucas led Galva with 14 points.

Bureau Valley 41, Fulton 37: Christen Hurley scored 21 points and Saige Barnett added 13 as the Storm edged the Steamers at Erie.

Jordan Price led Fulton with 17 points.

Ridgewood 64, Oregon 39 Star of the game: Jared Adams, Ridgewood, 21 points, 3 3-pointers, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals Key performers: Tyler English, Ridgewood, 14 points, 4 rebounds, 2 blocks; Cody Ebens, Oregon, 9 points, 3 3-pointers Up next: Oregon at Dixon, 7:15 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6 Oregon put up a respectable 13 points in the first, but couldn’t contain the Spartans defensively. Ridgewood went 9-for-15 from the field in the first quarter, with 10 points coming from star guard Jared Adams, as they jumped out to a 20-13 advantage.

The Spartans built a comfortable lead with a 9-0 run to open the second quarter.

Ridgewood’s scheme was to dump the ball inside to 6-foot-9 center Tyler English, and let him either turn and score, or kick it out to Adams on the perimeter.

Adams went 3-for-4 from beyond the arc in the half en route to 15 points at intermission.

“Their height hurt us,” Virgil said. “And number one [Adams] is as good a guard as we’ve played this season.

He took over the game.”

“As long as we’re getting touches in the paint, every-

ROUNDUP

BOYS BOWLING

Fulton third at Dixon: Seth Sikkema and

Michael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com

Oregon’s Dalton Hermes (12) shoots over Ridgewood’s Max Nuckles (30) and Travis Kane (3) during the second quarter Friday at the Newman Christmas Classic in Sterling. thing is going to work itself out,” Ridgewood head coach Casey Adamson said. “Jared got some nice looks on the outside due to the fact that they had to collapse on the paint.”

Oregon couldn’t catch up in the quarter, as they struggled mightily on the offensive end of the floor.

Five turnovers in the second didn’t help either. Junior guard Jared Pottorff scored

the first Oregon points in the second with just 40 seconds to go before halftime.

Four more Hawks turnovers in the third quarter led to easy transition buckets for the Spartans. Ridgewood put it on cruise control from there.

“We’re going to really have to defend due to our skill deficiency offensively,” Virgil said. “We really have to lock in without any lapses.”

Stan Sikkema led the Steamers to a thirdplace finish at the Dixon Toughman at Plum Hollow.

Seth Sikkema took third individually with a 1,151 total, breaking 200 in each of his five games, with a high game of 267.

Stan Sikkema was fourth with a 1,095 series and a 278 game.

Dixon took seventh as a team, led by a 995 total from Brandon Rex. He had a high game of 253.

Oregon took ninth, led by a 894 total from Justin Poole and a 246 game from Kyle Lundquist.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Kalamazoo Valley 71, Sauk Valley 49:

Bailey Schrader and Dabriona Williams each scored 10 points for the Skyhawks in a loss to the Cougars at the Illinois Central College tournament in East Peoria.

KaLeah Ryan led Kalamazoo with 18 points, while Jayshonna Blackshire and Chloe Salmon each had 14.

Saturday, December 31, 2016

www.saukvalley.com

FRIDAY’S SCOREBOARD Women’s basketball Friday’s result Illinois Central College tournament at East Peoria

KALAMAZOO VALLEY 71, SAUK VALLEY 49 KALAMAZOO Blackshire 6-10 1-2 14, Ryan 7-8 3-4 18, Weddon 1-3 0-0 2, James 3-10 1-2 7, Bragg 2-5 0-0 5, Erwin 1-7 0-0 3, Salmon 6-11 0-0 14, Burns 0-0 0-0 0, Wright 0-1 0-2 0, Thomas 1-3 0-0 2, Barnhart 3-5 0-0 6, Cook 0-1 0-0 0. Totals: 30-64 5-10 71.

SAUK VALLEY Jaida Carson 3-9 1-2 7, Alexi McCloud 2-6 0-2 4, Carolyn Hammelman 0-1 0-0 0, Courtney Rogers 2-4 2-3 7, Bailey Schrader 4-8 2-4 10, Tori Edleman 0-1 0-2 0, Dabriona Williams 2-9 6-6 10, Kennedy Kuykendall 2-11 1-2 5, Tressa Schuler 2-7 2-2 6. Totals: 17-56 14-23 49.

Kalamazoo 24 20 17 10 — 71 Sauk Valley 9 12 13 15 — 49 3s – Kalamazoo 6 (Salmon 2, Blackshire, Ryan, Bragg, Erwin), SVCC 1 (Rogers).

Rebounds – Kalamazoo 46 (James 9), SVCC 32 (Schuler 7). Assists – Kalamazoo 13 (James 5), SVCC 6. Turnovers – Kalamazoo 21, SVCC 17. Blocked shots – Kalamazoo 1, SVCC 4 (Schrader 2). Steals – Kalamazoo 7 (Ryan 4), SVCC 11 (Kuykendall 3).

Boys basketball Tournament pairings

Cliff Warkins Memorial Cardinal Classic at Erie A=Annex; HS=High School Pool A: Erie, Wethersfield, Knoxville, Morrison, Stockton, Stark County Pool B: Bureau Valley, Lena-Winslow, Mercer County, Orion, Peoria Heights, Riverdale Tuesday’s results • Mercer County 57, Bureau Valley 50 • Morrison 40, Stockton 35 • Riverdale 55, Lena-Winslow 35 • Stark County 52, Knoxville 34 • Orion 72, Peoria Heights 49 • Wethersfield 47, Erie 45, OT Wednesday’s results • Stockton 58, Erie 39 • Bureau Valley 53, Lena-Winslow 38 • Morrison 36, Stark County 34 • Orion 49, Mercer County 46 • Wethersfield 62, Knoxville 50 • Riverdale 57, Peoria Heights 54 • Orion 49, Lena-Winslow 41 • Stockton 54, Stark County 34 • Bureau Valley 66, Riverdale 58 • Wethersfield 49, Morrison 45 • Peoria Heights 56, Mercer County 46 • Erie 32, Knoxville 29 Thursday’s results • Erie 36, Stark County 27 • Lena-Winslow 52, Peoria Heights 45 • Morrison 50, Knoxville 29 • Orion 69, Bureau Valley 59 • Wethersfield 54, Stockton 45 • Riverdale 58, Mercer County 38 Friday’s results • Lena-Winslow 47, Knoxville 30 • Morrison 47, Peoria Heights 45, ot • Mercer County 50, Stockton 34 • Riverdale 68, Stark County 40 • Erie 57 Bureau Valley 42 • Championship game, Orion 60, Wethersfield 58

State Farm Classic at Bloomington-Normal Wednesday’s results Game 9: St. Thomas More 46, Downs TriValley 40 Game 10: Chillicothe IVC 59, Fieldcrest 48 Game 11: El Paso-Gridley 56, Prairie Central 43 Game 12: Piasa Southwestern 59, Peoria Christian 50 Game 13: Quincy Notre Dame 76, Rock Falls 65 Game 14: Bloomington Central Catholic 62, Annawan 46 Game 15: St. Joseph-Ogden 76, Bishop McNamara 60 Game 16: Stanford Olympia 63, Aurora Christian 55 Game 17: Downs Tri-Valley 61, Fieldcrest 35 Game 18: Peoria Christian 44, Prairie Central 36 Thursday’s results Game 19: Prairie Central 65, Fieldcrest 43 Game 20: St. Thomas More 70, Chillicothe IVC 37 Game 21: Rock Falls 54, Annawan 51 Game 22: Downs Tri-Valley 54, Peoria Christian 40 Game 23: El Paso-Gridley 62, Piasa Southwestern 50 Game 24: Bishop McNamara 74, Aurora Christian 60 Game 25: Chillicothe IVC 48, Piasa Southwestern 46 Game 26: Rock Falls 72, Bishop McNamara 65 Semifinal: Quincy Notre Dame 66, Bloomington Central Catholic 45 Game 28: Annawan 58, Aurora Christian 45 Game 29: St. Thomas More 63, El PasoGridley 46 Semifinal: St. Joseph-Ogden 70, Stanford Olympia 67 Friday’s results Third place: Bloomington Central Catholic 69, Stanford Olympia 56 Championship: Quincy Notre Dame 81, St. Joseph-Ogden 73

Taylorville Holiday Tournament Purple Pool: Mt. Zion, Rantoul, Sterling, Chicago Corliss Gold Pool: Galesburg, Rochester, Dunlap, Taylorville Wednesday’s results Game 1: Sterling 73, Corliss 43 Game 2: Galesburg 59, Dunlap 45 Game 3: Mt. Zion 71, Rantoul 47 Game 4: Taylorville 65, Rochester 46 Thursday’s results Game 5: Corliss 63, Mt. Zion 61 Game 6: Sterling 69, Rantoul 63 Game 7: Galesburg 43, Rochester 25 Game 8: Taylorville 67, Dunlap 44 Game 9: Corliss 55, Rantoul 48 Game 10: Rochester 54, Dunlap 43 Game 11: Mt. Zion 75, Sterling 70 Game 12: Taylorville 46, Galesburg 42 Friday’s results Game 13: Rantoul 71, Rochester 67 Game 14: Corliss 46, Dunlap 31 Game 15: Mt. Zion 55, Galesburg 40 Game 16: Sterling 69, Taylorville 50 Game 17: Rochester 61, Corliss 43 Game 18: Rantoul 64, Dunlap 50 Game 19: Galesburg 61, Taylorville 42 Game 20: Sterling 62, Mt. Zion 59

Newman Christmas Classic Tuesday’s results • Ridgewood 81, Paw Paw 27 • Alleman 71, Oregon 15 • Newman 76, Paw Paw 24 Wednesday’s results • Oregon 49, Paw Paw 36 • Alleman 61, Ridgewood 39 • Newman 76, Oregon 57 Thursday’s results • Alleman 80, Paw Paw 23 • Newman 66, Ridgewood 60, OT Friday’s results • Ridgewood 64, Oregon 39 • Alleman 52 Newman 50

Plano Christmas Classic Monday’s results Game 1: Morris 55, Fenton 45 Game 2: Princeton 59, Lisle 51 Game 3: Yorkville 64, Yorkville Christian 47 Game 4: Chicago Hope 58, Coal City 47 Game 5: Mendota 78, Hinckley-Big Rock 40 Game 6: Peoria Notre Dame 41, Forreston 25 Game 7: LaSalle-Peru 84, IMSA 29 Game 8: St. Bede 45, Dixon 41 Tuesday’s results Game 9: Lisle 60, Fenton 46 Game 10: Coal City 77, Yorkville Christian 50 Game 11: Forreston 51, Hinckley-Big Rock 37 Game 12: Dixon 52, IMSA 35 Game 13: Morris 57, Streator 52 Game 14: Newark 60, Princeton 59 Game 15: Kaneland 39, Yorkville 37 Game 16: Burlington Central 94, Chicago Hope 53 Game 17: Ottawa 56, Mendota 51 Game 18: Peoria Notre Dame 57, Plano 51 Game 19: LaSalle-Peru 51, Sandwich 40 Game 20: Northridge Prep 63, St. Bede 44

SV Weekend • B5

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Wednesday’s results Game 21: Fenton 82, Yorkville Christian 50 Game 22: IMSA 55, Hinckley-Big Rock 52 Game 23: Lisle 64, Coal City 42 Game 24: Dixon 50, Forreston 33 Game 25: Mendota 60, Plano 57 Game 26: Sandwich 63, St. Bede 42 Game 27: Yorkville 40, Chicago Hope 31 Game 28: Streator 68, Princeton 56 Game 29: Newark 51, Morris 37 Game 30: Burlington Central 54, Kaneland 47 Game 31: Ottawa 47, Peoria Notre Dame 43 Game 32: LaSalle-Peru 47, Northridge Prep 36 Thursday’s results Game 33: Plano 52, St. Bede 44 Game 34: Princeton 66, Chicago Hope 52 Game 35: Sandwich 45, Mendota 38 Game 36: Yorkville 46, Streator 35 Game 37: Morris 45, Kaneland 26 Game 38: Peoria Notre Dame 39, Northridge Prep 32 Semifinal: Newark 65, Burlington Central 57 Semifinal: Ottawa 55, LaSalle-Peru 37 Friday’s results 23rd place: Yorkville Christian 57, HinckleyBig Rock 52 21st place: Fenton 60, IMSA 29 19th place: Forreston 58, Coal City 57 17th place: Lisle 50, Dixon 37 15th place: St. Bede 60, Chicago Hope 40 13th place: Princeton 61, Plano 51 11th place: Mendota 79, Streator 66 9th place: Sandwich 43, Yorkville 30 7th place: Northridge Prep 42, Kaneland 40 5th place: Peoria Notre Dame 44, Morris 31 3rd place: Burlington Central 61, LaSallePeru 58 Championship: Ottawa 48, Newark 37 Friday’s box scores at Taylorville Championship game

STERLING 62, Mt. ZION 59 STERLING Juan-Antonio Gomez 6-10 0-1 15, Myles Williams 4-6 3-4 12, Micah Kendrick 1-3 1-2 4, Reid Blackburn 4-7 1-2 8, Zach Kirchhof 0-0 0-0 0, Dimitric Young 3-5 1-3 7, Ryan Blackburn 5-6 0-0 13, Sean Gingrich 1-3 0-0 3, Daniel Pontnack 0-1 0-0 0.

Totals 24-41 5-12 62.

Mt. ZION Smith 9-15 6-7 29, Kuhle 1-6 0-0 2, Binder 1-1 0-0 2, Keman 0-0 1-2 1, Durand 2-3 0-1 4, Cox 4-6 2-2 11, Davis 0-1 0-0 0, Ewing 5-10 0-2 10. Totals 22-42 9-14 59.

Sterling 8 14 20 20 — 62 Mt. Zion 14 15 16 14 — 59 3s - Sterling 9-16 Gomez 3, Ry. Blackburn 3, Williams, Kendrick, Gingrich), Mt. Zion 6-13 (Smith 5, Cox) Semifinal

STERLING 69, TAYLORVILLE 50 TAYLORVILLE N. Livingston 4 0-0 11, Moats 2 0-0 5, Clayton 4 0-1 8, J. Livingston 5 0-0 15, Odam 2 0-0 4, Bergscheider 2 0-0 5, Roethemeyer 1 0-0 2. Totals 20 0-1 50.

STERLING Juan-Antonio Gomez 2 1-2 6, Myles Williams 7 0-0 14, Micah Kendrick 1 3-4 5, Reid Blackburn 2 0-0 4, Zach Kirchhoff 0 0-0 0, Dimitric Young 8 4-5 21, Ryan Blackburn 3 3-4 9, Sean Gingrich 1 6-6 8, Ethan Lavelle 0 0-0 0, Nyrel Sullivan 1 0-0 2, Trevor King 0 0-0 0, Daniel Pontnack 0 0-0 0. Totals 25 17-21 69.

Taylorville 16 14 10 10 — 50 Sterling 13 18 18 20 — 69 3s - Taylorville 10 (J. Livingston 5, N. Livingston 3, Moats, Bergscheider), Sterling 2 (Gomez, Young) at Plano tournament Consolation championship

LISLE 50, DIXON 37 LISLE Stitt 4-7 0-0 9, O’Connell 2-6 0-0 5, Jamison 6-9 4-7 16, M.McGrath 6-14 0-0 12, J.McGrath 1-3 0-0 2, Haen 1-3 0-0 2, Hunter 2-3 0-2 4, Wilke 0-0 0-0 0, White 0-1 0-0 0, Grutzmacher 0-0 0-0 0, Harris 0-0 0-0 0. Totals: 22-46 4-9 50.

DIXON Oscar Van Sickle 2-4 0-0 5, Beau Bailey 2-21 0-3 5, Noah Wilcox 0-4 5-6 5, Derian Duncan 0-1 0-0 0, David Whitcombe 3-4 2-2 9, Patrick Johnson 0-1 0-0 0, Adam Blackburn 4-10 0-0 11, Elijah Brown 0-1 0-0 0, Keenan Beard 1-1 0-0 2. Totals: 12-47 7-11 37.

Lisle 16 10 14 10 — 50 Dixon 7 17 10 5 — 37 3s – Lisle 2 (Stitt, O’Connell), Dixon 6 (Blackburn 3, Whitcombe, Van Sickle, Bailey). Rebounds – Lisle 37 (Jamison 14), Dixon 19 (Bailey 9). Assists – Lisle 13 (O’Connell 4, M.McGrath 4), Dixon 9 (Duncan 4). Turnovers – Lisle 17, Dixon 12. Blocked shots – Lisle 1, Dixon 0.

Steals – Lisle 5, Dixon 8. Fouls – Lisle 13, Dixon 8. at Newman Christmas Classic

RIDGEWOOD 64, OREGON 39 OREGON Izak Holley 1-1 0-0 2, Jared Pottorff 3-7 1-2 7, Austin Wilson 1-2 0-2 2, Brendon Riesselman 1-2 0-2 2, Cody Ebens 3-7 0-0 9, Dalton Hermes 1-3 0-0 3, Andrew Newman 1-3 0-0 2, Reyes Carreno 0-0 0-0 0, Kole Mowry 1-5 0-0 2, Ian Keene 3-9 0-0 8, Jaspreet Gill 0-0 0-0 0, Michael Kresheck 0-0 0-0 0, Devin DeHaan 0-0 0-0 0. Totals: 15-39 1-4 39.

RIDGEWOOD Smith 9-13 0-0 21, Kane 2-3 2-2 6, Nelson 1-2 2-4 4, Greenman 6-17 0-0 13, Woodbury 0-1 0-0 0, Vinivich 1-1 0-0 0, Swanson 0-1 0-0 0, Reed 1-2 0-0 0, Nuckles 3-6 0-0 6, English 7-8 0-0 14. Totals: 28-52 4-6 64.

Ridgewood 20 14 18 12 - 64 Oregon 13 5 7 14 - 39 3s – Ridgewood 4-10 (Smith 3), Oregon 8-22 (Ebens 3). Rebounds – Ridgewood 20 (Kane 5), Oregon 19 (Newman 4).

Assists – Ridgewood 13 (Kane 5), Oregon 6 (Ebens 2). Steals – Ridgewood 8 (Smith, Kane 2), Oregon 3 (Pottorf, Riesselman, Mowry). Blocks – Ridgewood 2 (English), Oregon 3 (Keene 2). Turnovers – Oregon 14, Ridgewood 11. Fouls – Oregon 8, Ridgewood 8.

Championship game

ALLEMAN 52, NEWMAN 50 ALLEMAN (9-7) Ryan Hodge 5-11 0-1 14, Andrew Barrett 3-7 3-4 10, Collin O’Keefe 0-1 0-0 0, Guaray Patwal 0-1 0-0 0, Nathan Graves 8-13 3-4 19, Jacob Sheldon 2-7 2-2 6, Brendan Hurd 0-0 0-0 0, Savrabh Patwal 1-2 0-0 3, Cy Pendleton 0-0 0-0 0. Totals: 19-42 8-11 52.

NEWMAN (13-1) Kyle Schmitt 3-9 1-2 10, Eli Leffelman 4-7 4-5 12, Brady Osborne 3-9 0-0 6, John Wilson 3-7 2-2 8, Ethan Hafner 3-6 0-0 6, Travis Williams 1-3 1-3 3, Cade Gorzny 1-5 2-2 5, Devon House 0-3 0-0 0. Totals: 16-49 10-14 50.

Alleman 13 20 9 10 — 52 Newman 9 10 11 20 — 50 3s – Alleman 6-12 (Hodge 4-7, Barnett 1-1, S. Patwal 1-2, O’Keefe 0-1, Sheldon 0-1), Newman 6-26 (Schmitt 3-9, Hafner 2-5, Gorzny 1-4, Osborne 0-4, Leffelman 0-2, House 0-2). Rebounds – Alleman 23 (Graves 8), Newman 26 (Osborne 5).

Assists – Alleman 14 (Hodge 4, Graves 4), Newman 13 (Osborne 4, Wilson 4). Steals – Alleman 9 (Graves 4), Newman 14 (Wilson 4). Blocks – Alleman 1 (Sheldon), Newman 3 (3 tied with 1). Turnovers – Alleman 10, Newman 13. Fouls – Alleman 16, Newman 16 (Leffelman out). at Erie Warkins Cardinal Classic

ERIE 57, BUREAU VALLEY 42 BUREAU VALLEY Brendan McAlvey 0 0-0 0, Kale Barnett 3 0-3 6, Nate Paup-Caudill 0 3-4 3, Spencer Marquez 2 0-0 5, Tyler Gustafson 1 0-0 3, Jackson Hanson 0 0-0 0, Nathan Brown 2 0-0 4, Corbin Endress 6 1-3 13, Jay Edlefson 1 0-0 2, Robert Rouse 0 0-0 0, Sawyer Gray 1 1-2 3, Andrew Petros 1 1-1 3, Daniel Schoff 0 0-0 0, Mat Paup-Caudill 0 0-0 0. Totals: 17 6-13 42 ERIE Dillin Tegeler 2 0-0 4, Kale Orman 9 0-2 22, Carson Kirkpatrick 0 1-2 1, Josh Hammer 3 0-0 7, Kyle Stover 1 1-2 4, Kyle Schipper 0 0-0 0, Brady Anderson 0 0-0 0, Jacob Ryan 0 2-2 2, Justice Youngberg 1 2-5 4, Travis Coleman 0 0-0 0, Eric Miller 6 1-2 13. Totals: 22 7-15 57

Bureau Valley 8 5 16 13 — 42 Erie 17 14 18 8 — 57 3s - Bureau Valley 2 (Marquez, Gustafson), Erie 6 (Orman 4, Hammer, Stover)

MORRISON 47, PEORIA HEIGHTS 45, OT MORRISON Britt Ottens 3 0-3 7, Bryce Smith 5 0-0 12, Ben Brackemeyer 6 0-2 12, Ethan Medenblik 0 0-0 0, Evan Ernst 0 0-0 0, Steven Kramoski 0 0-0 0, Nick Klimson 6 0-0 16, Grant Abell 0 0-0 0. Totals: 20 0-5 47.

PEORIA HEIGHTS Miller 1 0-0 2, Hines 3 1-2 7, Tangel 2 0-0 5, Begner 1 0-2 3, Gregory 4 2-2 11, Ponce 6 0-0 15, Banks 1 0-0 2. Totals: 18 3-6 45.

Morrison 18 2 14 6 7 - 47 Peoria Heights 15 9 9 7 5 - 45 3s – Morrison 7 (Klimson 4), Peoria Heights – 6 (Ponce 3).

Girls basketball Tournament pairings

Cliff Warkins Memorial Cardinal Classic at Erie A=Annex; HS=High School Pool A: Stockton, Rockridge, Wethersfield, Erie, Galva, Bureau Valley Pool B: Monmouth-Roseville, Knoxville, Orion, Morrison, Mercer County, Fulton Tuesday’s results • Mercer County 47, Morrison 21 • Erie 46, Bureau Valley 45 • Monmouth-Roseville 72, Fulton 59 • Wethersfield 47, Rockridge 20 • Orion 55, Knoxville 48 • Stockton 55, Galva 49 • Bureau Valley 49, Rockridge 32 • Mercer County 52, Monmouth-Roseville 41 • Wethersfield 63, Stockton 57 • Fulton 47, Orion 40 • Erie 40, Galva 32 • Knoxville 57, Morrison 35 Wednesday’s results • Bureau Valley 46, Galva 35 • Knoxville 67, Fulton 24 • Stockton 53, Rockridge 27 • Monmouth-Roseville 43, Morrison 34 • Wethersfield 48, Erie 38 • Mercer County 48, Orion 38 Thursday’s results • Fulton 33, Morrison 29 • Wethersfield 57, Bureau Valley 38 • Monmouth-Roseville 47, Orion 26 • Galva 40, Rockridge 19 • Knoxville 36, Mercer County 33 • Erie 48, Stockton 39 Friday’s results • Monmouth-Roseville 52, Rockridge 18 • Morrison 50, Galva 41 • Bureau Valley 41, Fulton 37 • Stockton 54, Orion 34 • Knoxville 51, Erie 48 • Championship game, Wethersfield 47 Mercer County 46

State Farm Classic at Bloomington-Normal Wednesday’s results Game 9: St. Joseph-Ogden 46, El PasoGridley 40 Game 10: St. Thomas More 62, LeRoy 32 Game 11: Alleman 49, Peoria Christian 44 Game 12: Bishop McNamara 38, Prairie Central 31 Game 13: Rockford Lutheran 58, Annawan 42 Game 14: Bloomington Central Catholic 50, Danville Schlarman 33 Game 15: Camp Point Central-Augusta SE 60, Brimfield 37 Game 16: Rock Falls 67, IC Catholic 64 Game 17: El Paso-Gridley 29, LeRoy 28 Game 18: Peoria Christian 49, Prairie Central 38 Thursday’s results Game 19: Prairie Central 47, LeRoy 31 Game 20: St. Joseph-Ogden 56, St. Thomas More 47 Game 21: Danville Schlarman 63, Annawan 51 Game 22: Peoria Christian 40, El PasoGridley 37 Game 23: Alleman 39, Bishop McNamara 31 Game 24: IC Catholic 42, Brimfield 41 Game 25: St. Thomas More 39, Bishop McNamara 34 Game 26: Danville Schlarman 51, IC Catholic 26 Semifinal: Rockford Lutheran 55, Bloomington Central Catholic 41 Game 28: Annawan 51, Brimfield 47 Game 29: Alleman 39, St. Joseph-Ogden 32 Semifinal: Camp Point Central-Augusta SE 46, Rock Falls 37 Friday’s results Third place: Bloomington Central Catholic 57, Rock Falls 51 Championship: Camp Point CentralAugusta SE 48, Rockford Lutheran 46 Friday’s box scores at State Farm Classic

BLOOMINGTON CC 57, ROCK FALLS 51 BCC Sartoris 2 6-8 11, Shanks 6 2-4 15, Mathewson 2 0-0 4, Brady 3 3-4 9, Stopa 1 0-0 3, Stevens 2 4-5 8, Malinowski 3 1-2 7. Totals 19 16-23 57.

ROCK FALLS Bailey Bickett 1 1-2 3, Molly Buck 3 0-2 8, Taylor Hoefler 5 0-1 10, Abbee Sigel 4 2-2 10, Olivia Babcock 6 2-2 14, Jordan Clevenger 1 0-0 2, Kenzie Olson 2 0-1 4.

Totals 22 5-10 51.

BCC 15 10 15 17 — 57 Rock Falls 8 12 9 22 — 51 3s - BCC 3 (Sartoris, Shanks, Stopa), Rock Falls 2 (Buck 2) at Erie Warkins Cardinal Classic

MORRISON 50, GALVA 41 GALVA Rogers 0 0-0 0, Clucas 5 0-0 14, Schilling 1 5-5 7, Stahl 0 0-0 0, Plijnaar 0 0-0 0, Anderson 2 0-0 4, Wexcell 2 3-9 7, Berry 3 3-8 9. Totals: 13 11-22 41.

MORRISON Emma Melton 1 2-2 4, Makayla Troutman 1 0-0 2, Emma Sitzmore 6 0-0 12, Jaeden Workman 3 2-2 9, Kassidee Church 4 1-2 9, Shayna Vanderleest 0 2-3 2, Lauren Vos 2 0-0 4, Mackenzie Petkus 1 0-0 2, Madison Steines 0 1-2 1, Peyton Tegeler 2 1-2 5. Totals: 20 9-13 50.

Galva 12 8 11 10 — 41 Morrison 9 19 8 14 — 50 3s – Galva 4 (Clucas 4), Morrison 1 (Workman).

BUREAU VALLEY 41, FULTON 37 FULTON Whitney Wynkoop 1 0-0 2, Schipper 3 0-2 6, Rylee Leitzen 1 1-2 4, Jordan Price 6 5-8 17, Abby Willging 0 1-2 1, Faith Kennedy 1 0-0 2, Brooke Huizenga 1 0-0 3, Rachael Huizenga 1 0-0 2, Baylee Gooch 0 0-0 0.

Totals: 14 7-14 37.

BUREAU VALLEY Nicole Wirth 0 0-1 0, Saige Barnett 5 1-3 13, Heather Williams 0 0-0 0, Addison Moreland 1 0-2 3, Christen Hurley 7 7-12 21, Hannah Williams 0 0-0 0, Marissa Mungia 1 2-5 4. Totals: 14 10-23 41.

Fulton 10 9 10 8 — 37 Bureau Valley 18 5 14 4 — 41 3s – Fulton 2 (Leitzen, B.Huizenga), Bureau Valley 3 (Barnett 2, Moreland).

KNOXVILLE 51, ERIE 48 KNOXVILLE Palmer 6 0-3 13, Scott 2 1-2 5, S.Shreeves 2 0-0 5, Bickell 0 1-4 1, Kavanagh 8 4-8 20, B.Shreeves 0 0-0 0, Hall 0 1-3 1, Grady 1 3-5 6. Totals: 19 10-25 51.

ERIE Calisa Steel 0 0-0 0, Riley Redell 4 0-0 11, Whitney Bramm 0 2-2 2, Montana Lawson 1 0-0 3, Jenna Saad 2 0-0 6, Taylor Steimle 6 2-4 14, Hannah Schanze 1 0-0 2, Madison Newton 1 2-2 4, Skylar Steimle 2 2-2 6. Totals: 17 8-10 48.

Knoxville 12 14 13 12 — 51 Erie 12 13 13 10 — 48 3s – Knoxville 3 (Palmer, S.Shreeves, Grady), Erie 6 (Redell 3, Saad 2, Lawson).

All-tournament team • Lauren Kavanagh (Knoxville); Elizabeth Eisfeller (Stockton); Christen Hurley (Bureau Valley); Jordan Price (Fulton); Dani Hagens (Mercer County); Kirstie Ramsey (Wethersfield); Taylor Steimle (Erie); Grace Clucas (Galva) MVP: Brittney Litton (Wethersfield)

Deep south suits CatMatt

T

his week I’m coming to y’all live from Alabama – Rogersville, Alabama, to be exact – the land of the Crimson Tide, Talledega Superspeedway, and giant blue catfish. Whatever you call it, it’s just plain beautiful.

The wife and I are here to participate in the Winter Blues catfish tournament on the Wheeler Reservoir, part of the Tennessee River System.

We rented a cabin for the week at Joe Wheeler State Park, right on the edge of the Wheeler Reservoir. The park has all kinds of cottages and cabins, and a breathtaking lodge.

It’s the kind of place you get to and don’t want to leave. The cabin we rented had everything you need, like a stove, microwave and fireplace. You have your own dishes and television and wifi, and well, everything.

The fishing here is legendary, and it’s one of, if not the best place in North America to catch a 100-pound fish. Heck, there was a 102-pounder caught just 2 days before we arrived.

But big fish aside, the first thing most notice when you get out on the water is the bait jumping everywhere you look. It is no surprise the fish get so big and look so healthy.

Outside of that, there is just an enormous

Submitted photo

Johnny Coleman of Des Moines, Iowa reeled in this Wheeler blue cat.

mattJONES Matt Jones is a fishing guide from Prophetstown.

He can be reached at flatheadmechanic40 @gmail.com

amount of water here.

The place is a mile wide, and there are bays and coves everywhere you look. It’s an angler’s dream.

Never in my life have I seen so many bait and tackle stores. Every other block has one, and every one of them is a paradise: full selections of lines, sinkers, rods and bait, and things you can’t find around here that most of us get only on the Internet.

Most of them also sell

gas, food and drinks.

They really know how to cater to fishermen.

A store like any one of these would really thrive in our area. So if you were thinking about getting into the business, I have the blueprint for success for you.

We are having a wonderful time, and I’m thankful we were able to take this trip. It is the first time I’ve ever been here, but it definitely won’t be the last. It is an amazing area.

There are deer everywhere, and birds, man are there a ton of birds.

There are no bluegill, just brim.

In all, it’s a great place to visit, and a place that has us thinking about relocating.

I hope you all have a wonderful New Year, and please be safe. Until next week, Go Catfish!

NFL | PACKERS AT LIONS

Down to the wire in the North Lions, Packers to meet to crown a division champion

BY NOAH TRISTER AP Sports Writer

DETROIT – It’s not the biggest game in the history of Ford Field, though it’s probably the biggest that’s actually involved the Detroit Lions.

Motown’s new football stadium opened in 2002, and since then it has hosted a Super Bowl and a Final Four. The Lions, however, have never had an opportunity in the building quite like this weekend, when they host the Green Bay Packers on Sunday night with a chance to win Detroit’s first division title since 1993.

Whoever wins this game takes the NFC North, and whoever loses could be out of the playoffs.

“I can’t wait,” Lions receiver Golden Tate said. “I’m excited for this team. I’m excited for this city. We have a great opportunity to do something that hasn’t been done in a long time.”

It will certainly be a memorable atmosphere in downtown Detroit, but this is actually a scenario Lions fans were hoping to avoid. Detroit was two games ahead of Green Bay after improving to 9-4 with a win over Chicago. Then the Lions lost on the road against the Giants and Dallas, allowing the Packers (9-6) to pull even atop the division. Green Bay has won five straight.

Detroit (9-6) can put a lot of its recent angst in the past with a win Sunday, but a loss could end the Lions’ season.

If Washington beats the Giants earlier in the day, the Detroit-Green Bay loser would miss the playoffs.

The Packers are pleased to be in this position.

They were 4-6 after a 42-24 loss to Washington on Nov. 20, but since then, Green Bay has been on a tear, with Aaron Rodgers directing

AP

Lions quarterback Matt Stafford has the middle finger on his right hand in a cast, but will be under center on Sunday when Detroit hosts Green Bay to crown a division champion.

Packers (9-6) at Lions (9-6) When: 7 p.m. Sunday Where: Ford Field, Detroit TV: NBC Line: Packers by 3 Last meeting: Week 3, Green Bay won 34-27. the offense – and the much-maligned defense forcing quite a few turnovers. The Packers have 12 takeaways over the past three games.

When his team was 4-6, Rodgers said he thought Green Bay could “run the table” – and now the Packers are a win away from a division title.

“That’s the confidence he has in our team and our offense and himself,” Green Bay receiver Jordy Nelson said. “We just needed to clean a few things up and we’d be in the situation that we are right now.”

Here are a few things to watch in the final game of the NFL’s regular season: Safety net: The Lions and Packers could both be in the postseason by the time their game kicks off – if Washington loses. Green Bay coach Mike McCarthy said his team would stick with its normal pregame routine, but he wasn’t sure how much that will allow players to watch what is going on elsewhere.

“We have a system of when TVs are on and when they’re off,”

McCarthy said. “I don’t know the time that the TVs go off by heart.”

QB health: Rodgers showed more mobility last week against Minnesota, indicating that his sore right calf is feeling better. Regardless of how his legs are doing, he’s on a roll with his arm, having gone six straight games without an interception.

“It’s nice to be feeling a lot better,” Rodgers said. “My injuries have definitely subsided, the rehab has continued, but I’m healing up at the right time.”

Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford has been dealing with a finger injury on his throwing hand for the past three games. He’s thrown four interceptions and lost a fumble during that span.

Defending the pass:

The Packers have given up at least 353 yards in the air each of the past 2 weeks, against Chicago and Minnesota. That’s partly because Green Bay built up big leads, forcing the Bears and Vikings to play catch-up.

B6 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

CHICAGO ROUNDUP

Blackhawks, Bulls lose Hurricanes extend home-rink dominance By the Associated Press

Jay McClement scored the key goal 2:54 into the third period, and the Hurricanes beat the Blackhawks 3-2 on Friday night in Charlotte, N.C. Elias Lindholm and Lee Stempniak scored early goals 1 minute, 5 seconds apart to give the Hurricanes a 2-1 lead, and they held on to earn a point in their 11th straight home game.

They’re 10-0-1 at PNC Arena since Nov. 12.

Michal Kempny had a goal and an assist, and Vinnie Hinostroza added a deflected goal 5:49 into the third for the Western Conference-leading Blackhawks, who had their four-game road winning streak snapped.

Cam Ward made 27 saves for Carolina while improving to 8-0-1 during the Hurricanes’ home-ice roll.

Scott Darling stopped 25 shots for Chicago.

McClement’s goal early in the third period – a turnaround blast past Darling off a giveaway by Patrick Kane – put Carolina up 3-1.

That goal became more significant a few minutes later when Jonathan Toews put a shot off Hinostroza’s midsection and past Ward to pull the Blackhawks within a goal.

The Hurricanes locked down after that, with Ward stopping Kane’s shot through traffic with about 1½ minutes remaining, and later

FRIDAY’S SCOREBOARD NFL AMERICAN CONFERENCE East

W L T Pct PF PA y-New England 13 2 0 .867 406 236 x-Miami 10 5 0 .667 349 345 Buffalo 7 8 0 .467 389 348 N.Y. Jets 4 11 0 .267 245 399 South

W L T Pct PF PA y-Houston 9 6 0 .600 262 304 Tennessee 8 7 0 .533 357 361 Indianapolis 7 8 0 .467 387 372 Jacksonville 3 12 0 .200 298 376

y-Pittsburgh Baltimore Cincinnati Cleveland

North W L T Pct PF PA 10 5 0 .667 372 303 8 7 0 .533 333 294 5 9 1 .367 298 305 1 14 0 .067 240 425

West

W L T Pct PF PA x-Oakland 12 3 0 .800 410 361 x-Kansas City 11 4 0 .733 352 284 Denver 8 7 0 .533 309 291 San Diego 5 10 0 .333 383 386

NATIONAL CONFERENCE East

W L T Pct PF PA y-Dallas 13 2 0 .867 408 279 x-N.Y. Giants 10 5 0 .667 291 274 Washington 8 6 1 .567 386 364 Philadelphia 6 9 0 .400 340 318

AP

The Bulls’ Jimmy Butler drives past the Pacers’ Paul George during the second half of Friday’s game in Indianapolis. The Pacers won 111-101. gloving his attempt with 2.4 seconds to play.

Carolina erased its early deficit with those bang-bang goals, with Lindholm tying it by stuffing a loose rebound past Darling, and Stempniak putting the Hurricanes up by whipping a rebound past the Chicago goalie.

Toews finished with two assists, also setting up Kempny’s first NHL goal – a one-timer at 6:36 of the first that put the Blackhawks up 1-0.

NBA

Pacers 111, Bulls 101:

Paul George scored 32 points, including 11 in the final 4½ minutes, to help the Pacers snap a four-game losing streak with a victory over the Bulls in Indianapolis.

George broke a 97-97 tie by making a jumper with 4:07 left, then made three free throws on Indiana’s next possession and a layup with 2:52 left for a 102-99 lead. The Pacers sealed the win with a 9-2 spurt.

Jimmy Butler scored 25 points and Dwyane Wade had 20 for the Bulls, who never led and only forced two ties in the game.

Indiana started fast, scoring the first seven points and making its first seven shots.

Chicago spent the rest of the night playing catch-up.

The Bulls didn’t get closer than three until Michael Carter-Williams completed a three-point play with 6:03 to go, finally tying the score at 95.

COLLEGE ROUNDUP

’Noles hold off Wolverines Volunteers top Huskers in Music City Bowl By the Associated Press

Deondre Francois threw a 12-yard touchdown pass to Nyquan Murray with 36 seconds remaining, and No. 10 Florida State beat No. 6 Michigan 33-32 in a wild Orange Bowl on Friday night in Miami Gardens, Fla. Francois threw for two scores – both to Murray – and ran for another for the Seminoles (10-3).

They got 145 yards rushing from Dalvin Cook and recovered after wasting a 12-point lead midway through the fourth.

Chris Evans had a 30-yard touchdown run and Khalid Hill an 8-yard scoring catch in the final minutes for Michigan (10-3), which also got a defensive conversion when Josh Metellus ran a blocked extra point back after the second Francoisto-Murray TD. But Michigan turned the ball over on its final possession, and the Seminoles held on to win a game where the teams combined for 23 points and two lead changes in the final 5:22.

Evans’ scoring run put the Wolverines up 30-27, but Florida State’s Keith Gavin swung momentum back to the Seminoles with a 66-yard kickoff return right up the middle – setting up the drive where his team would take the lead for good.

Michigan played without injured star linebacker Jabrill Peppers, and lost tight end Jake Butt to what appeared to be a knee injury early in the second quarter.

Wilton Speight was 21-for-38 passing for 163 yards for Michigan, which got a 14-yard interception return from Mike McCray for a touchdown. Francois completed his freshman season with a 9-for-27 night, but threw for 222 yards – including a 92-yarder to Murray early

Saturday, December 31, 2016

y-Atlanta Tampa Bay New Orleans Carolina

South W L T Pct PF PA 10 5 0 .667 502 374 8 7 0 .533 337 353 7 8 0 .467 437 416 6 9 0 .400 353 385

Detroit Green Bay Minnesota Chicago

North W L T Pct PF PA 9 6 0 .600 322 322 9 6 0 .600 401 364 7 8 0 .467 289 297 3 12 0 .200 269 361

West

W L T Pct PF PA y-Seattle 9 5 1 .633 329 269 Arizona 6 8 1 .433 374 356 Los Angeles 4 11 0 .267 218 350 San Francisco 2 13 0 .133 286 455 x-clinched playoff spot; y-clinched division Sunday’s games New England at Miami, Noon Cleveland at Pittsburgh, Noon Carolina at Tampa Bay, Noon Dallas at Philadelphia, Noon Houston at Tennessee, Noon Buffalo at N.Y. Jets, Noon Chicago at Minnesota, Noon Baltimore at Cincinnati, Noon Jacksonville at Indianapolis, Noon New Orleans at Atlanta, Noon N.Y. Giants at Washington, 3:25 p.m.

Seattle at San Francisco, 3:25 p.m.

Kansas City at San Diego, 3:25 p.m.

Arizona at Los Angeles, 3:25 p.m.

Oakland at Denver, 3:25 p.m.

Green Bay at Detroit, 7:30 p.m.

College football Bowl schedule Friday, Dec. 23 Bahamas Bowl Nassau Old Dominion 24, Eastern Michigan 20 Armed Forces Bowl Fort Worth, Texas Louisiana Tech 48, Navy 45 Dollar General Bowl Mobile, Ala. Troy 28, Ohio 23 Saturday, Dec. 24 Hawaii Bowl Honolulu Hawaii 52, Middle Tennessee 35 Monday, Dec. 26 St. Petersburg (Fla.) Bowl Mississippi State 17, Miami (Ohio) 16 Quick Lane Bowl Detroit Boston College 36, Maryland 30 Independence Bowl Shreveport, La. NC State 41, Vanderbilt 17 Tuesday, Dec. 27 Heart of Dallas Bowl Army 38, North Texas 31 OT Military Bowl Annapolis, Md. Wake Forest 34, Temple 26 Holiday Bowl San Diego Minnesota 17, Washington State 12 Cactus Bowl Phoenix Baylor 31, Boise State 12 Wednesday’s results Pinstripe Bowl Bronx, N.Y. Northwestern 31, Pittsburgh 24 Russell Athletic Bowl Orlando, Fla. Miami 31, West Virginia 14 Foster Farms Bowl Santa Clara, Calif.

Utah 26, Indiana 24 Texas Bowl Houston Kansas State 33, Texas A&M 28

AP

Michigan linebacker Mike McCray (9) leaps for a touchdown as Florida State offensive lineman Alec Eberle (54) attempts to tackle during the second half of the Orange Bowl on Friday in Miami Gardens, Fla. McCray scored after intercepting a pass, but the Wolverines lost, 33-32. in the game when the Seminoles were rolling out to leads of 17-3 and 20-6.

Music City Bowl

Tennessee 38, Nebraska 24: Joshua Dobbs ran

for three touchdowns and 118 yards, and threw for 291 yards and another score and Tennessee beat No. 24 Nebraska in Memphis.

The Volunteers (9-4) beat a Big Ten team in a bowl for a third straight year, and notched their first win in three tries against the Cornhuskers.

It’s the first time Tennessee has won three straight bowls since 1994-1996 when Peyton Manning was quarterback for the Vols.

Tennessee took a 14-0 lead in the second quarter and outgained Nebraska 521-318 in total offense in the bowl sponsored by Franklin American Mortgage.

Nebraska (9-4) ended the season with two straight losses. The Cornhuskers lost four of their final six after rising as high as No. 7 in the rankings.

Ryker Fyfe, the fifth-year former walk-on started for injured quarterback Tommy Armstrong Jr. He

pulled Nebraska within a touchdown in the fourth quarter. Fyfe threw two TD passes to Brandon Reilly, and ran for a 9-yard TD with 10:02 left in the fourth to pull the Cornhuskers within 31-24.

Dobbs tossed a 59-yard TD pass to Josh Malone for the final margin.

College basketball

Michigan St. 61, Northwestern 52: Alvin Ellis

III scored 16 points, Cassius Winston had 15, and Nick Ward added 11 as Michigan State made the most of a fast start in a win over Northwestern in East Lansing, Mich.

It was the third win in a row for the Spartans (10-5, 2-0 Big Ten), who led 28-9 in the first half before Northwestern (12-3, 1-1) got going. The Wildcats finished the half on a 20-8 run to pull within 36-29 at the break.

Sanjay Lumpkin’s 3-pointer early in the second half cut the Wildcats’ deficit to four, 36-32.

Michigan State led 48-44 with 11:29 left, and the Wildcats didn’t get closer.

Michigan State shot 42.9 percent from the floor (21-for-49), while hitting just 4 of 17 3-point tries.

Thursday’s results Birmingham (Ala.) Bowl South Florida 46, South Carolina 39, ot Belk Bowl Charlotte, N.C. Virginia Tech 35, Arkansas 24 Alamo Bowl San Antonio Oklahoma State 38, Colorado 8 Friday’s results Liberty Bowl Memphis, Tenn.

Georgia 31, TCU 23 Sun Bowl El Paso, Texas Stanford 25, North Carolina 23 Music City Bowl Nashville, Tenn.

Tennessee 38, Nebraska 24 Arizona Bowl Tucson, Ariz.

Air Force 45, South Alabama 21 Orange Bowl Miami Gardens, Fla. Florida State 33, Michigan 32 Saturday’s games Citrus Bowl Orlando, Fla. LSU (7-4) vs. Louisville (9-3), 10 a.m. (ABC) TaxSlayer Bowl Jacksonville, Fla. Kentucky (7-5) vs. Georgia Tech (8-4), 10 a.m. (ESPN) CFP Semifinals Peach Bowl Atlanta Alabama (13-0) vs. Washington (12-1), 2 p.m. (ESPN) Fiesta Bowl Glendale, Ariz.

Clemson (12-1) vs. Ohio State (11-1), 6 p.m. (ESPN) Monday Outback Bowl Tampa, Fla. Florida (8-4) vs. Iowa (8-4), noon (ABC) Cotton Bowl Arlington, Texas Western Michigan (13-0) vs. Wisconsin (103), noon (ESPN) Rose Bowl Pasadena, Calif.

Penn St. (11-2) vs. USC (9-3), 4 p.m. (ESPN) Sugar Bowl New Orleans Oklahoma (10-2) vs. Auburn (8-4), 7:30 p.m. (ESPN) Monday, Jan. 9 College Football Championship Tampa, Fla. Semifinal winners, 7:30 p.m. (ESPN) Friday’s box scores at Nashville

Music City Bowl TENNESSEE 38, NEBRASKA 24 Nebraska Tennessee

0 7 7 10 — 24 0 21 3 14 — 38

Second Quarter TEN–J.Kelly 28 run (Medley kick), 13:20 TEN–Dobbs 10 run (Medley kick), 7:36 NEB–Reilly 38 pass from Fyfe (Brown kick), 1:36 TEN–Dobbs 2 run (Medley kick), :09 Third Quarter TEN–FG Medley 46, 5:52 NEB–Reilly 9 pass from Fyfe (Brown kick), 3:26

Fourth Quarter TEN–Dobbs 3 run (Medley kick), 14:09 NEB–FG Brown 45, 12:06 NEB–Fyfe 9 run (Brown kick), 10:02 TEN–Malone 59 pass from Dobbs (Medley kick), 8:45

NEB TEN First downs 18 25 Rushes-yards 28-61 38-230 Passing 257 291 Comp-Att-Int 19-42-0 23-38-0 Return Yards 28 74 Punts-Avg. 7-42.57 6-36.66 Fumbles-Lost 3-1 1-1 Penalties-Yards 7-41 6-65 Time of Possession 28:28 31:32 INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS RUSHING–Nebraska, Ozigbo 7-66, T.Newby 9-15, Carter 1-9, Morgan 1-0, Wilbon 1-(minus 1), (Team) 1-(minus 1), Fyfe 8-(minus 27). Tennessee, Dobbs 11-118, J.Kelly 15-70, Kamara 7-31, Jennings 2-14, Byrd 1-9, (Team) 1-(minus 1), J.Smith 1-(minus 11).

PASSING–Nebraska, Fyfe 17-36-0-243, Darlington 2-6-0-14. Tennessee, Dobbs 23-38-0-291.

RECEIVING–Nebraska, Pierson-El 5-49, Reilly 4-98, Morgan 3-28, Carter 2-34, Reimers 2-26, T.Newby 2-11, Ozigbo 1-11. Tennessee, Kamara 7-46, Jennings 6-59, Malone 5-120, Croom 2-38, J.Smith 2-13, Et.Wolf 1-15. at Miami Gardens, Fla. Orange Bowl

FLORIDA ST. 33, MICHIGAN 32 Michigan Florida St.

3 3 9 17 — 32 17 3 0 13 — 33 First Quarter FSU–Cook 2 run (Aguayo kick), 12:47 MICH–FG Allen 19, 9:11 FSU–FG Aguayo 42, 7:31 FSU–Murray 92 pass from Francois (Aguayo kick), 2:49 Second Quarter MICH–FG Allen 28, 9:36 FSU–FG Aguayo 38, 4:49 Third Quarter MICH–FG Allen 37, 7:34 MICH–McCray 14 interception return (pass failed), :54 Fourth Quarter FSU–Francois 3 run (Aguayo kick), 11:38 MICH–K.Hill 8 pass from Speight (Allen kick), 5:22 MICH–Evans 30 run (Darboh pass from Speight), 1:57 FSU–Murray 12 pass from Francois (kick failed), :36

MICH FSU First downs 16 15 Rushes-yards 36-89 35-149 Passing 163 222 Comp-Att-Int 21-38-1 9-27-1 Return Yards 39 72 Punts-Avg. 8-44.12 5-38.2 Fumbles-Lost 0-0 1-1 Penalties-Yards 4-37 7-65 Time of Possession 34:17 25:43 INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS RUSHING–Michigan, Evans 8-49, D.Smith 16-36, McDoom 1-6, Higdon 4-3, Chesson 1-2, Speight 6-(minus 7). Florida St., Cook 20-145, Francois 10-9, Patrick 1-2, Stevenson 1-0, (Team) 3-(minus 7).

PASSING–Michigan, Speight 21-38-1163. Florida St., Francois 9-27-1-222.

RECEIVING–Michigan, Darboh 5-36, Chesson 4-31, Bunting 3-40, Butt 3-28, D.Smith 3-7, K.Hill 2-13, Wheatley 1-8.

Florida St., Cook 3-62, Rudolph 3-33, Murray 2-104, Whitfield 1-23.

Men’s basketball Big Ten

Conference All Games

W L PCT W L PCT Michigan St. 2 0 1.000 10 5 .667 Maryland 1 0 1.000 13 1 .929 Wisconsin 1 0 1.000 12 2 .800 Purdue 1 0 1.000 12 2 .857 Nebraska 1 0 1.000 7 6 .538 Ohio St. 0 0 .000 10 3 .769 Michigan 0 0 .000 10 3 .769 Northwestern 1 1 .500 12 3 .857 Indiana 0 1 .000 10 3 .769 Iowa 0 1 .000 8 6 .571 Minnesota 0 1 .000 12 2 .857 Rutgers 0 1 .000 11 3 .786 Illinois 0 1 .000 10 4 .714 Penn St. 0 1 .000 8 6 .571 Friday’s result Michigan St. 61, Northwestern 52 Saturday’s game Indiana vs. Louisville, at Indianapolis, 11:30 a.m. (CBS) Sunday’s games Nebraska at Maryland, 11 a.m. (BTN) Michigan at Iowa, 1:15 p.m. (BTN) Penn St. at Rutgers, 1:30 p.m. (ESPNU) Minnesota at Purdue, 3:30 pm. (BTN) Ohio St. at Illinois, 6 p.m. (BTN) Friday’s box score

MICHIGAN ST. 61, NORTHWESTERN 52 NORTHWESTERN (12-3) Law 6-11 3-6 16, Benson 0-1 0-0 0, McIntosh 3-14 1-1 7, Lumpkin 3-6 0-0 7, Lindsey 3-11 2-2 11, Skelly 0-1 0-0 0, Taphorn 3-5 0-0 8, Ash 0-0 0-0 0, Brown 1-4 1-3 3.

Totals 19-53 7-12 52.

MICHIGAN ST. (10-5) Van Dyk 1-2 0-0 2, Ward 4-7 3-4 11, McQuaid 1-3 1-3 3, Winston 6-9 1-2 15, Langford 1-4 0-0 2, Goins 1-4 0-0 2, Harris 1-4 2-2 4, Ellis 4-10 7-10 16, Nairn 1-3 0-0 3, Ahrens 1-3 1-1 3. Totals 21-49 15-22 61.

Halftime–Michigan St. 36-29. 3-Point Goals–Northwestern 7-19 (Lindsey 3-6, Taphorn 2-4, Law 1-1, Lumpkin 1-3, Skelly 0-1, Brown 0-1, McIntosh 0-3), Michigan St. 4-17 (Winston 2-3, Nairn 1-2, Ellis 1-4, Harris 0-2, McQuaid 0-2, Ahrens 0-2, Langford 0-2). Fouled Out–Lumpkin, Skelly, McIntosh. Rebounds–Northwestern 25 (Law 9), Michigan St. 40 (Ward 9). Assists–Northwestern 13 (McIntosh 5), Michigan St. 14 (Winston 6). Total Fouls–Northwestern 23, Michigan St. 18.

A–14,797 (16,280).

State schedule Friday’s results Valparaiso 70, Ill.-Chicago 59 Cent. Michigan 90, Chicago St. 82 Saturday’s games W. Illinois at IUPUI, noon Jacksonville St. at E. Illinois, 3:15 p.m.

Ill.-Springfield at N. Illinois, 3:30 p.m.

Tennessee Tech at SIU-Edwardsville, 3:30 p.m.

Sunday’s games Bradley at Wichita St., 1 p.m.

Illinois St. at Loyola, 1 p.m.

St. John’s at DePaul, 1 p.m. (FS1) Drake at S. Illinois, 4 p.m.

Top 25 schedule Friday’s results No. 2 UCLA 76, Oregon State 63 No. 3 Kansas 86 TCU 80 No. 4 Baylor 76, Oklahoma 50 No. 7 Gonzaga 92 Pepperdine 62 No. 11 West Virginia 92, Oklahoma St. 75 No. 18 Arizona at California, late No. 21 Oregon 84 No. 22 Southern Cal 61 Saturday’s games No. 1 Villanova at No. 10 Creighton, noon No. 5 Duke at Virginia Tech, 11 a.m.

No. 6 Louisville vs. No. 16 Indiana, 11:30 a.m.

No. 7 Gonzaga at Pacific, 7 p.m.

No. 9 N. Carolina at Georgia Tech, 11 a.m.

No. 12 Virginia vs. No. 21 Fla. St., 1 p.m.

No. 17 Xavier at Georgetown, 10 a.m.

No. 19 Saint Mary’s vs. San Diego, 8 p.m.

No. 24 Notre Dame at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m.

Sunday’s games No. 13 Butler at Providence, 2 p.m.

No. 15 Purdue vs. Minnesota, 3:30 p.m.

No. 18 Arizona at Stanford, 7 p.m.

No. 23 Cincinnati vs. Tulane, 6 p.m.

AP Top 25 The top 25 teams in The Associated Press’ college basketball poll, with first-place votes in parentheses, records through Dec. 25, total points based on 25 points for a first-place vote through one point for a 25th-place vote and last week’s ranking:

Record Pts Prv 1. Villanova (56) 12-0 1614 1 2. UCLA (3) 13-0 1518 2 3. Kansas 11-1 1461 3 4. Baylor (6) 12-0 1458 4 5. Duke 12-1 1375 5 6. Louisville 11-1 1260 10 7. Gonzaga 12-0 1222 7 8. Kentucky 10-2 1171 6 9. North Carolina 11-2 1113 8 10. Creighton 12-0 1049 9 11. West Virginia 11-1 933 11 12. Virginia 10-1 892 12 13. Butler 11-1 837 13

14. Wisconsin 11-2 772 14 15. Purdue 11-2 745 15 16. Indiana 10-2 709 16 17. Xavier 10-2 548 17 18. Arizona 11-2 512 18 19. Saint Mary’s (Cal) 10-1 407 19 20. Florida St. 12-1 326 21 21. Oregon 11-2 321 20 22. Southern Cal 13-0 248 23 23. Cincinnati 10-2 207 24 24. Notre Dame 10-2 204 25 25. Florida 9-3 76 — Others receiving votes: Maryland 40, Virginia Tech 37, Seton Hall 18, Clemson 12, Minnesota 8, Miami 8, Oklahoma St. 7, Northwestern 5, South Carolina 4, UNC Wilmington 3, Arkansas 3, Iowa St. 2.

NBA EASTERN CONFERENCE Atlantic Division

W L Pct Toronto 22 10 .688 Boston 20 14 .588 New York 16 16 .500 Philadelphia 8 24 .250 Brooklyn 8 24 .250

GB — 3 6 14 14

Southeast Division

W L Pct GB Charlotte 19 14 .576 — Atlanta 17 16 .515 2 Washington 16 16 .500 2½ Orlando 15 19 .441 4½ Miami 10 24 .294 9½

Cleveland Chicago Milwaukee Indiana Detroit

Central Division W L Pct GB 24 7 .774 — 16 17 .485 9 15 16 .484 9 16 18 .471 9½ 15 20 .429 11

WESTERN CONFERENCE Southwest Division

W L Pct GB San Antonio 27 6 .818 — Houston 25 9 .735 2½ Memphis 21 14 .600 7 New Orleans 14 21 .400 14 Dallas 10 24 .294 17½ Northwest Division

W L Pct GB Utah 20 13 .606 — Oklahoma City 20 13 .606 — Denver 14 19 .424 6 Portland 14 21 .400 7 Minnesota 11 22 .333 9 Pacific Division

W L Pct GB Golden State 29 5 .853 — L.A. Clippers 22 13 .629 7½ Sacramento 14 18 .438 14 L.A. Lakers 12 24 .333 18 Phoenix 10 23 .303 18½ Friday’s results Indiana 111, Chicago 101 Washington 118, Brooklyn 95 Boston 117, Miami 114 Atlanta 105, Detroit 98 Houston 140, L.A. Clippers 116 Minnesota 116, Milwaukee 99 New Orleans 104, New York 92 San Antonio 110, Portland 94 Philadelphia 124, Denver 122 Golden State 108, Dallas 99 Saturday’s games Memphis at Sacramento, 4 p.m.

Cleveland at Charlotte, 6 p.m.

Milwaukee at Chicago, 6 p.m.

L.A. Clippers at Oklahoma City, 7 p.m.

New York at Houston, 7 p.m.

Phoenix at Utah, 7 p.m.

Sunday’s games Detroit at Miami, 5 p.m.

Orlando at Indiana, 5 p.m.

San Antonio at Atlanta, 5 p.m.

Portland at Minnesota, 6 p.m.

Toronto at L.A. Lakers, 8:30 p.m.

Friday’s box score

PACERS 111, BULLS 101 CHICAGO (101) Gibson 4-12 2-2 10, Lopez 0-0 2-2 2, Rondo 0-2 0-0 0, Butler 8-17 9-11 25, Wade 8-18 3-4 20, McDermott 4-5 0-2 10, Mirotic 3-14 0-0 8, Felicio 4-5 4-5 12, Carter-Williams 4-10 3-3 12, Grant 0-1 2-2 2. Totals 35-84 25-31 101.

INDIANA (111) George 10-20 9-9 32, Robinson 4-4 3-4 12, Turner 5-10 5-6 15, T.Young 7-11 3-4 17, Teague 2-13 3-4 7, Miles 3-7 1-1 8, Seraphin 2-3 0-0 4, Jefferson 2-6 2-2 6, Brooks 3-5 0-0 8, Ellis 1-2 0-0 2. Totals 39-81 26-30 111.

Chicago 22 28 23 28 — 101 Indiana 28 34 22 27 — 111 3s- Chicago 6-23 (McDermott 2-2, Mirotic 2-11, Wade 1-2, Carter-Williams 1-3, Grant 0-1, Rondo 0-1, Butler 0-3), Indiana 7-19 (George 3-10, Brooks 2-4, Robinson 1-1, Miles 1-2, Teague 0-2). Fouled OutNone. Rebounds-Chicago 47 (Felicio 12), Indiana 42 (Robinson 10). AssistsChicago 17 (Wade 5), Indiana 26 (Teague 17). Total Fouls-Chicago 23, Indiana 22.

Technicals-Felicio.

NHL EASTERN CONFERENCE Atlantic Division

GP W L OT Pts GF GA Montreal 36 22 9 5 49 110 82 Ottawa 36 20 12 4 44 93 96 Boston 38 19 15 4 42 92 93 Tampa Bay 37 18 15 4 40 106 104 Toronto 35 16 12 7 39 103 99 Florida 37 15 14 8 38 89 103 Detroit 36 16 16 4 36 89 102 Buffalo 35 13 14 8 34 77 98 Metropolitan Division

GP W L OT Pts GF GA Columbus 34 25 5 4 54 119 71 Pittsburgh 37 24 8 5 53 129 104 N.Y. Rangers 38 25 12 1 51 129 95 Washington 34 20 9 5 45 91 75 Philadelphia 37 20 13 4 44 113 114 Carolina 35 16 12 7 39 93 95 New Jersey 36 14 15 7 35 84 108 N.Y. Islanders 35 14 15 6 34 98 111

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Chicago Minnesota St. Louis Dallas Nashville Winnipeg Colorado

Central Division GP W L OT Pts GF GA 39 23 11 5 51 108 94 35 23 8 4 50 111 72 37 19 13 5 43 104 110 37 16 14 7 39 96 110 36 16 14 6 38 102 100 38 17 18 3 37 101 111 35 12 22 1 25 72 116

Pacific Division

GP W L OT Pts GF GA San Jose 35 22 12 1 45 90 77 Edmonton 37 19 12 6 44 108 98 Anaheim 38 18 12 8 44 103 106 Calgary 38 19 17 2 40 101 109 Los Angeles 36 17 15 4 38 89 89 Vancouver 37 16 18 3 35 91 112 Arizona 36 11 20 5 27 80 117 Note: Two points for a win, one point for overtime loss.

Friday’s results Carolina 3, Chicago 2 Nashville 4, St. Louis 0 San Jose 2 Philadelphia 0 Vancouver 3, Anaheim 2, OT Saturday’s games Washington at New Jersey, noon Buffalo at Boston, noon Columbus at Minnesota, 5 p.m.

N.Y. Islanders at Winnipeg, 6 p.m.

Carolina at Tampa Bay, 6 p.m.

Montreal at Pittsburgh, 6 p.m.

Florida at Dallas, 7 p.m.

N.Y. Rangers at Colorado, 7 p.m.

Vancouver at Edmonton, 9 p.m.

Arizona at Calgary, 9 p.m.

San Jose at Los Angeles, 9:30 p.m.

Sunday’s games Detroit at Toronto, 2 p.m.

Ottawa at Washington, 6:30 p.m.

Philadelphia at Anaheim, 7 p.m.

Friday’s box score

HURRICANES 3, BLACKHAWKS 2 Chicago 1 0 1 — 2 Carolina 2 0 1 — 3 First Period–1, Chicago, Kempny 1 (Hartman, Toews), 6:36. 2, Carolina, Lindholm 4 (Staal, Slavin), 8:32. 3, Carolina, Stempniak 8 (Teravainen, Aho), 9:37.

Second Period–None.

Third Period–4, Carolina, Mcclement 2, 2:54. 5, Chicago, Hinostroza 4 (Toews, Kempny), 5:49.

Shots on Goal–Chicago 8-10-11–29.

Carolina 16-7-5–28.

Power-play opportunities–Chicago 0 of 1; Carolina 0 of 1.

Goalies–Chicago, Darling 10-4-2 (28 shots-25 saves). Carolina, Ward 13-9-6 (29-27).

Saturday, December 31, 2016

www.saukvalley.com

B7

SV Weekend • B7

place ads online www.saukvalley.com

CLASSIFIED SAUK VALLEY Saturday, March 1, 2015

Dixon 815.284.SOLD(7653)

Sterling 815.626.SOLD (7653)

• we reach over 48,000 readers every day • LOST

110

IS YOUR PET MISSING? Read our found section in todays paper. Just in case it is not there, call one of your area animal shelters listed below: Lee County Animal Control (815)284-3833 Granny Rose Animal Shelter (815)288-7387 Whiteside County Animal Control (815)625-3507 Happy Tails Humane Society (815)626-2994 A public service of Sauk Valley Media

VOLUNTEERS

126

CASA 15th Judicial Circuit (Lee/ Carroll/Ogle Counties) is seeking volunteers to advocate for children in the court system involved in abuse and neglect cases.

Your involvement can impact a child’s future.

Contact Trisha Morrow, Executive Director (815) 288-1901 www.casalee carroll.com

REAL ESTATE 202 SERVICES PUBLISHER'S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference , limitation or discrimination based on race, color,religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians pregnant women and securing people custody of children under 18.

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law.

Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777.

The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-279275.

MOBILE HOMES 230

MOBILE HOMES

230

Advertise your mobile homes for sale here!!

MORRISON Fixer Upper $2000 815-772-8943

APARTMENTSFURNISHED 305

AMBOY

ROCK FALLS

1 & 2BR Apts Avail. $450 & $495, updated cabinets, carpet, fresh paint.

1 mo. Rent & sec dep required.

Background check & credit check supplied by applicant. No pets or smoking. 630-6539192 or northtown apt@gmail.com

Clean, quiet, lg. Effull ficiency, kitchen, lg. Bath, $265+ dep. 815718-9316

ASHTON ★★ 1&2 BR., Ashton/ F.G. 815-7512712/562-5075.★

DIXON ROCK FALLS EFFICIENCIES! -InclusiveClean & Quiet 815-626-8790*

APARTMENTS UNFURNISHED 306 Attractive 1 & 2 apts. with BR. some utilities. Sterling & Rock Falls.

No pets, no parRefs. req. ties.

815-336-2305.

HAVING TROUBLE wording your ad?

Call our Classified Department today.

We'll be glad to help you.

626-SOLD or 284-SOLD

NEW TODAY 2BR upper, W/D hookup, stove, refrig. 609 W. 3rd St. 815-288-6083.

Must see- 2BR clean, quiet.

No smoking or pets. $500+ dep.

815-690-2711 Upstairs Lg. 2BR, $600 + dep. Heat water & garbage inc. 815-973-5886

MILLEDGEVILLE 1BR upstairs heated att. garage, C/A, rent incl. Util., no pets or smoking. Dep. & ref.

Req. 815-225-5067

ROCK FALLS 1 & 2 BR Hampton Apts.

815-625-7043

Lg.1BR, No pets. $425. 815-718-1784 or 815 625-4701 Nice clean 3BR, W/D hookups, no pets. $650/mo. + dep. 815-622-4344 after 5pm.

Spacious 2BR apartment. Located in a low traffic cul-de-sac. quiet Safe for kids and close to a preferred area grade school. Only $525 per month including garage. Call 815-289-6527 for more information.

Sterling Rentals Newer 2 Bedroom $640.00 Applcs., Fireplaces 2002 3rd Ave. 1836 First Ave. 606 W. Lefevre 2 BR $535.00 1 BR $465.00 1 Studio $390.00 Partial Heat, Water, Sewer, Refuse Removal, Laundry Facilities, Satellite

(815)626-1431 SM-ST11212-0111

STERLING

DIXON

1BR $400 & 2BR for $500

Water, sewer, garbage incl.

Coin W/D, No pets/ No parties.

Call Diana: 630-327-7046 Apts. For Rent No pets.

No Exceptions!

Call 815-716-0367.

3 BR ranch, 2 BA, completely finished basement & 2 car garage. $800 per mth, $800 dep.

815-288-5766 3BR 1.5 BA, basement garage C/A, gas heat, no smoking or pets. $800/ mo + dep. Lease req. 815-288-1644

ROCK FALLS Near CGH & Rec Center, Nice 1BR garage, applcs., $450/mo., 1830 3rd Ave. 815-499-0199 Nice large 1BR, stove, refrig., no pets 815-631-6678 Sinnissippi Townhomes Spacious 2 BR 2 story townhomes FIRST MONTH RENT FREE! Central air, Good location. Laundry hookup.

(815)626-1130.

Studio apt $325/ mo. and Nice 1BR apt. $400/mo. Call 773-319-0059.

HOMES FOR RENT

310

Tenants/Landlords HOUSES & APTS. svla.org

Cute 3BR, all redone. Why Rent?™ $598/mo.

815-878-7399.

STERLING

LOANS

STERLING NEW TODAY Duplex for rent: 1200 square foot, 2 BR, 1BA, basement, new carpet, applcs, attached 1 car garage, laundry on 1st floor and more. Beautiful, quiet, country setting just a mile out of town.

Snow removal, mowing and garbage pickup incl. All electric. $1100 per mo.

815-626-7756

MOBILE HOMES FOR RENT

315

MORRISON 3BR 1BA $425/mo.

815-772-8943

2BR Townhome $600/mo. Hampton Apts. 625-7043 3BR, 1 ½ bath.

No pets. Call 815-625-0624 3BR, 1102 1st Ave. $875/mo. Call 815626-8790.

3BR, Ave. E. & 7th St. $700/mo. +dep.

815-535-3976 Nice 2BR, No smoking/pets.$700/ mo. 815-718-5488

Need to place an ad?

Call us 625-3600 284-2222

THE CLASSIFIED Advertising Department of Sauk Valley Media does not have the opportunity to fully investigate the credibility of each advertiser appearing within these columns. If an offer sounds “too good to be true” it probably is.

Proceed with caution if you are asked to send money or to give a credit card number.

Proceed with caution in calling 900 phone numbers. All phone numbers prefixed by “900” are charged to the CALLER. Charges may be assessed on a “per minute” basis rather than a “per call” basis.

Sauk Valley Classified makes every effort to qualify these charges for the reader.

If you have a concern about an advertiser, please contact the Better Business Bureau 330 N. Wabash, Chicago, IL 60611.

312-832-0500

Looking for the perfect home?

Read Sauk Valley Classifieds real estate section and Real Estate Weekly on Thursdays.

Rentals Rentals Rentals!!!!!

Advertise Your Rentals in Sauk Valley Classifieds Call 815-625-3600 or 815-284-2222

CLASSIFIEDS SAUK VALLEY dailyGAZETTE

TELEGRAPH

402

B8

B8 • SV Weekend

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

501

NOTICEPURto the SUANT Business Opportunity Sales Law of 1995, every busiopportunity ness must be registered with the Illinois Securities Department. Protect yourself and get the facts before you over your hand hard earned money by contacting the Illinois Secretary of State's Securities Department at 1800-628-7937. This notice provided as a public service by Sauk Valley Classifieds.

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

505

Full Time & Part Time Positions Driver and Food Service Workers Aramark Foodservice partnering with Sterling Public Schools Monday thru Friday No nights or weekends. Summers off.

Paid Holidays.

On-line application only.

Apply at www.Ara mark.com/careers Call 815-622-4153 for more details.

Pre-employment Drug Screen, fingerprinting, and background check required.

Aramark is an equal opportunity employer.

505

Entry level Mechanic needed Must have standard tools. Pay depends on experience. No phone calls please.

Email resume to bellini@grics.net or stop in for application at 1577 Eldena Rd., Dixon Experienced HVAC Technician ★★needed★★ ★immediately★ must have at least 5 yrs. experience, competitive wages, Please submit resume to 1301 Ave. L, Sterling, IL

Full or Part Time Local or Regional Drivers Wanted Class A CDL Assigned Peterbilt and Kenworth Trucks Preloaded Trailers Paid Vacations Home Weekends Flexible Dispatch Wellmark Health Insurance Apply online at www.avtrans inc.com or Call Missy 800-397-6387x10

Office Administration Part time Flexible Hours. We are looking for someone that has excellent computer data entry skills, is comfortable with social media (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Iffetc.) and MS Office (Word).

Position will be responsible for data entry, data gathering and providing support to our recruiters. The ideal individual will have some college education. Must be able to work well in a very informal setting and have an ability to deal with the small company family dynamic.

Hourly pay, bonus possibilities, and flexible hours.

Contact: Mr. Sullivan ESP, Ltd. Dixon 815-285-4773

www.saukvalley.com

EMPLOYMENT

505

EMPLOYMENT

NEW TODAY Part-time dog kennel and cat care person/ assisadoption tant needed. Experience preferred, but will provide training. Must be at least 18 years old.

Approximately 20 hours per week with alternating reweekends quired.

Should have good customer skills. Apply person at in Granny Rose Animal Shelter, 613 River Lane, Dixon, IL. NO phone calls!

Sterling Township Highway Department has immediate openings for part time snow plow drivers. CDL a plus and drug screening required.

Must be available for all inclement condiweather tions. Could lead to part time summer help.

Please stop at Sterling Township Highway Department, 1807 Griswold Ave., Sterling Illinois to pick up an application. Mon - Fri. 7AM- 3PM We are an EEO.

EMPLOYMENT

505

505

TO OUR

READERS:

“The People Professionals” 102 S. Galena Ave 2nd floor, DIXON 815-835-3000 Now Hiring: •Quality Inspector •Sales •Assembly •Production & Packaging •General Labor ------------Apply online at: hughes resources.com

Sauk Valley Media does not knowingly accept advertising which is in violation of the law. Likewise, we do not knowingly accept advertising which is fraudulent or has intent. malicious While we attempt to screen advertising with potential fraud, it is impossible to screen all potential We problems. strongly encourage our readers to exercise caution and common sense, when particularly dealing with companies with which you are not familiar.

Kick Off the New Year with a New Career PRODUCTION POSITIONS • Full-Time Positions • Full Benefits Package • 1st and 2nd Shifts Apply online at etnyre.com

Truck driver needed. CDL required.

Variety of hauling Mon-Fri;farm to elevator & general cargo. $15/hour.

2015 International semi (sleepercab).

Purvis Farms LLC, 815-718-3183.

E. D. ETNYRE & CO. 1333 S. Daysville Road, Oregon, Illinois M/F Disabled and Vet EEO/AA Employer

Find your dream home!

Read Sauk Valley Classifieds real estate section and Real Estate Weekly on Thursdays.

Sauk Valley Media 3200 E. Lincolnway Sterling, IL 61081

Towns Amboy

Amboy

Sterling

815-625-3600 ext. 5301

Streets

Telegraph 113 S. Peoria Dixon, IL 61021

Route

N. Jones, N. Metcalf, N. East, Joe Dr., W. Bacon 3218

Customers 88

S. Washington, Davis, Prospect, W. Clark, W. Main 3206 1st Ave., - 6th Ave. , E Miller to Grobe Road

70

76

69

For motor route availability call David Sheets

815-625-3600 ext. 5311

Astrograph It’s up to you to make this year productive.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2016 CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Head into the new year with a plan. Don’t discuss what you are going to do, or you will face opposition.

Enjoy the festivities without controversy. Moderation is encouraged.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- Simple plans will make the turn of the year special and memorable. Spend some time with people who spark your interest. Sharing cultural differences will bring you closer together.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) -- Let your emotions lead the way. Truth and honesty will help you clear up any misgivings, allowing you to ring in the year with a fresh new start.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- If you present who you are and what you want openly, you’ll attract people who have similar goals. Their contributions will ensure that you head into the new year with a positive attitude.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) -- Let your imagination wander. Listen to the people you encounter while you venture into the new year with hopes and aspirations. Enjoy the evening and look forward to the possibilities.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- Offer to do something nice for a loved one. A positive change will result if you are affectionate and willing to work toward a common goal with someone you love.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- Ring in the year with people you find inspiring. Discussing your thoughts and plans will ensure that you head into the new year on the right foot.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -You can live it up at a party, but do so with class. Stay in control and avoid temptation.

Keeping a clear head and an open mind will help you enter the new year on a high note.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -You’ll have some interesting

ideas that you should share with someone you love and respect. The help offered will lead to a new beginning.

Celebrate what’s to come.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -- Put on a happy face and plan to ring in the new year with someone you love.

A romantic evening will encourage positive plans and new adventures as the year unfolds. Embrace the future.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -- Celebrate in a unique and cost-efficient manner. Don’t let the past bring you down.

It’s time to move forward with a positive attitude and the determination to build a brighter future.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- Make this New Year’s celebration intimate, special and one to remember.

Stick close to home and spend time with someone who makes you happy. The outcome will feature an unexpected surprise.

CLASSIFIEDS deals small ads

sauk valley

©2016 UFS

CALL TODAY! 815/284.2222

BIG

EMPLOYMENT

505

W-S Industrial Services is hiring for our Clinton office.

We provide indusmaintenance trial services across the United States. Applicant should be 21 or over, able to travel, have a clean driving record, and must be able to pass a nationwide criminal background check.

1517 South 19th Street, Clinton.

Prior military and/ or CDL a plus.

Wanted: Heavy Truck Mechanic Class A License to perform Maintenance, Day Shift, Top Pay along with benefits.

Oregon /Dixon area. Please send replies to Box #1355, c/o Sauk Valley Classifieds, P.O. Box 498, Sterling, IL 61081

Sudoku!

Answer on B10 CELEBRITY CIPHER

by Luis Campos

Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present.

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

TODAY’S CLUE: E equals M

“PZZ SA OM BHBKC MWFXZB CBPK, DB’KB P GWAABKBFN YBKMSF. W GSF’N NRWFJ DB’KB

LOOKING FOR QUALITY CARRIERS Receptionist PoMust be sition: available mornings, afternoons, evenings and weekends. Bilingual applicants a plus.

Apply in person Mondays from 16p.m. and Fridays 9a.m.-3p.m. at H & R Block, 1027 lst Ave. Rock Falls

Saturday, December 31, 2016

815/625.3600

NRB MPEB YBKMSF PZZ SOK ZWHBM.” -- MNBHBF MYWBZVBKX Previous Solution: “Life happens. Adapt. Embrace change, and make the most of everything that comes your way.” -- Nick Jonas (c) 2016 by NEA, Inc., dist. by Universal Uclick 12-31

12/31 Crossword

Saturday, December 31, 2016

www.saukvalley.com

B9

SV Weekend • B9

Astrograph Express your feelings and follow your heart.

MONDAY, JANUARY 2, 2017 AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) -- Don’t be afraid to act fast. You’ll stay ahead of the competition if you take action.

You can bravely make things happen.

with people who challenge you. Networking functions will encourage you to be more innovative and entrepreneurial. Physical fitness is encouraged.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) -- Rely on people you know in order to drum up support for your projects. Honesty will help you cut through any confusion and will bring what you want and need to the forefront.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- Your emotions will be difficult to deal with.

Trying to change what other people do is a waste of time.

Concentrate on yourself and how you handle situations.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -- Explore your ideas, and clear a space at home that will encourage you to engage in creative endeavors. Travel is best avoided. You will face injury or delays if you aren’t cautious.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- You’ll find it difficult to proceed with caution. Your desire to get things done your way will lead to both opportunities and obstacles.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -Express your feelings and bring about the changes that will help you gain control over your life. Don’t accept undesirable results when you can have so much more.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- Bring about positive changes at home by working to promote your ideas and plans for a better standard of living. Discipline and labor will be rewarding.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- You know what’s best for yourself and how you should proceed, so don’t let anyone dump responsibilities on you that will deter you from following through with your plans. Avoid excess.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- You need to handle money wisely. Demands are best kept at a distance. Don’t fold under pressure or give in to someone using persuasive tactics in an attempt to convince you to accept a bad deal.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- Try something new and get out and make friends

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -Strive to stabilize your life and your relationships with

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Problems while traveling or dealing with financial institutions, government agencies or hospitals will surface. Evaluate each situation separately and say no to anyone or anything that doesn’t fit your agenda.

others. Seek compromise if it will help you avoid discord or loss. Change can be good if it’s made with honorable intentions.

©2017 UFS

Think Green

Everyone wants a cleaner, greener environment, so the buzz words are “think global, act local.”

Here’s something you can do in your everyday life to be more environmentally-friendly.

Think green.

If you are a subscriber of the daily Gazette or Telegraph, we are asking you to recycle your plastic bags and rubber bands by just giving them back to your carrier or driver.

CLASSIFIEDS SAUK VALLEY Sauk Valley Media publishers of

dailyGAZETTE

TELEGRAPH

Sudoku!

Answer on B10 CELEBRITY CIPHER

by Luis Campos

Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present.

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

TODAY’S CLUE: N equals J

“E REXT E USFG YZ AG YUG CST LVZKX: VSDBUEXB ZX YUG ZDYCETG, LWPEXB ZX YUG EXCETG.” -- YZXP CZHWSXZ (NSJGC BSXTZVREXE) Previous Solution: “All of us every single year, we’re a different person. I don’t think we’re the same person all our lives.” -- Steven Spielberg

(c) 2017 by NEA, Inc., dist. by Andrews McMeel Syndication

1/2 Crossword

1-2

B10

B10 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

SERVICE DIRECTORY SAUK VALLEY

Basement Waterproofing Prater Paint & Waterproofing We Dry Up Basements & Crawl Spaces, Remediate Mold & Install E-Z Breathe™ Ventilation Systems 815-626-5165

www.praterpaintand waterproofing.com

Cleaning Service

Frank's Performance

License-Bonded Insured NO JOB TOO SMALL All your home Improvement needs Remodeling of baths, basements & kitchens Custom showers Siding-Decks etc.

815-440-3519

GUTTERS & THEN SOME Gutter Cleaning & Repair Service Miscellaneous Jobs FREE ESTIMATES 815-535-0911 Bonded & Insured If you have gutter problems, call the Gutter Guys!!

Serving the Sauk Valley Areas for over 15 years •On the Job Manufactured • Expert Installation •Competitive prices •Best Quality Materials, Guaranteed •5” and 6” Seamless Gutters for Residential, Industrial & Commercial Needs •Leaf Free Gutter Protection Systems •Licensed •Bonded •Insured FREE Estimates 815-213-0704

Do you want lower cost per bushel and higher yield per acre?

Maximize your profits and increase your yields with a world-class crop management system!

Call 815-438-5014 Cell 815-499-6090 Tampico, IL www.300bushel corn.info

Fireplaces Fireplaces Gas Wood Stoves Inserts Log Sets Doors Service Repair Install Visit our Showrooms Anselmo's 1235 W. LeFevre Rd., Sterling 815-625-3519

(815)631-4122 www.mullerslane farm.com

JOHN'S CLEANUP & REMOVAL Anything goes!!

Estate Cleanups PHONE 815-622-0240

Painting BALAYTI PAINTING

Interior & Exterior Light Carpentry Pressure Washing 35 Years Experience Insured - References Cell #815-440-2202

DAN'S HOME REPAIR Professional Painting Interior & Exterior Snow Removal Licensed bonded and Insured.

Proudly serving your community for 15 years

815-677-7970

PRATER Paint & Waterproofing Specializing in •Residential •Commercial •Farm & •Industrial Call for your FREE painting or sandblasting estimate 815-626-5165

Power Washing

Furniture Refinished Furniture Restoration Strip, Refinish, Repair Re-glue, Touch-ups.

Custom Woodworking & Finishing Shop Anselmo's Inc. 1235 W. LeFevre Rd., Sterling 815-625-3519

❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋

MATT'S SNOWPLOWING Sterling Rock Falls Residential & Commercial Most Driveways $20 LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEED 815-590-1677 ❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋

Snow Removal

Mobil Pressure Wash Service • Commercial, • Residential & • Semis You name it.... we clean it!

Call Ben 815-590-2694

Storage

STORAGE UNITS Multiple Sizes Starting at $35 OUTSIDE STORAGE NOW AVAILABLE No appt. needed Located inside MOORE TIRES 2411 E. Rt 30 Rock Falls (815)625-3764

Roofing

www.allsafe center.com High-Security Storage Solutions and Much More!

“Area's #1 Roofing Contractor IL Lic# 104-015191 Licensed, Bonded & Insured •Roofing •Siding •Windows •Decks •Additions •Garages & More Residential & Commercial Call now to schedule your FREE Estimate!

Will beat any leading competitor price 815-590-2677

Roofing/Siding

•Climate Controlled Storage •Low-Cost Moving Truck Rental •Confidential Document Shredding •We Ship FedEx & UPS! •Expert Packaging Services •Value Boxes & Packaging Supplies •EBAY and EMOTORS Internet Auction Sales Over 15,000 Sales •Office Hours: Mon-Fri. ☛ 8:306, Sat. ☛ 8:30noon 690 Timber Creek Rd. Dixon, (815)285-2212

Tree Service “Area's #1 Roofing Contractor IL Lic# 104-015191 Licensed, Bonded & Insured •Roofing •Siding •Windows •Decks •Additions •Garages & More Residential & Commercial Call now to schedule your FREE Estimate!

Will beat any leading competitor price 815-590-2677

Illinois License #104.016127 Bonded/Insured •Roofing •Siding • Windows •Doors •Additions• •Garages •Drywall •Decks and more Free Estimates 815-213-0556

Serving the Sauk Valley Area for over 15 years.

•Garages •Additions •Roofing •Siding •Windows •Gutters •Interior/Exterior •New Construction & Re-Construction Residential, Industrial, Commercial •Licensed •Bonded •Insured FREE Estimates 815-213-0704

Water Softeners

The Softener Man 815-544-0918

Repairr on all makes & models Servicce Call Special $19.95!

Snowplowing

Commercial & Residential Free Estimates Call 815-973-8361

Haul/Clean Service

Farm Services

Remodeling

Snowmobile & ATV Service Repair & Accessories Your Local Amsoil Dealer!

Be Ready Before The Snow Flies!!

10576 Buell Rd. Rock Falls 815-622-9370

Swanson Snow Removal

PAUL’S HANDYMAN SERVICE “Anything Your Husband Won’t Do!” •Experience On All Manner of Home Repairs & Maintenance since 1986

Dumpster Rental for Clean-ups & Construction Small & Large containers avail.

Tidy Bug Inc. Dixon, IL tidybuginc.com 815-456-3001

• Residential • Commercial • Industrial * Fully Insured * Hot Water We do everything including house washing, gutters, pool areas, brick/ stone walls, decks & patios and commercial businesses.

Professional industrial equip.

Done right the first time!

Call 815-441-0246

Gutters

Handyman

Dumpster Rental

Snowmobile Repair Snowmobile Repair

Gutter Cleaning •Residential & Commercial •24 Hour Service!

•Specializing in Custom Duct Design & Fabrication •Free Estimates Affordable, Reliable & 25 years Experience!!

Owner Tod Reynolds 815-535-1459

Power Washing

✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤

BRAD'S TREE SERVICE

A division of Timber Industries, LLC. Tree & Limb Removal Stump Removal Storm Clean-up Mulch & Firewood •Free Estimates •Fully Insured 815-857-3674 Cole's Complete Tree Service Tree Trimming Stump Removal Licensed and Insured *Free Estimates* 25HR Emergency Service Will meet or beat any written tree estimates.

Call 815-718-2997 Now accepting credit/debit cards Donnie Cole colestree service@outlook.com

WILKINS TREE & LANDSCAPING Simple Trimming Simple Price Fully Insured Licensed Timber Buyer in IL FREE Estimates Selling hardwood lumber & firewood 815-631-4340

TV Repair

TELEVISION IN HOME REPAIR 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE! Work on all Brands & Models Old or New Serving the Sauk Valley and More Call Ron for a free quote at 815-561-0011 Dixon, IL

Over 30 years of experience

CARS815.com

FARLEY'S APPLIANCE Heating & Cooling Sale & Service Free Estimates New & Replacement Units We service all brands!

Call Today (815)284-2052

Genl. Contracting

SEARCH FOR LOCAL CARS

Air Cond./Heating

A1

Saturday, December 31, 2016

Reuse.

Repurpose.

Really Save!

Take a fresh look at the Classifieds, the original way to shop green!

Classifieds saUK ValleY

dailyGAZETTE TELEGRAPH

To place an ad, call 815.625.3600 or visit saukvalley.com today!

Saturday, December 31, 2016

CHILD CARE

512

Little Blessings Childcare has immediate daycare openings for infant-school age. 815-285-3811 Lic# 48927502

CHILD CARE

512

NO INDIVIDUAL, unless licensed or holding a permit as a childcare facility, may cause to be published any advertisement soliciting a child care service.* A childcare facility that is licensed or operating under a permit issued by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services may publish advertisements of the services for which it is lispecifically censed or issued a permit. Sauk Valley Media strongly urges any parent or guardian to verify the validity of the license of any facility before placing a child in it's care. *Family homes that care for no more than three (3) children under the age of twelve or which receive only children from a single household, for less than 24 hours per day, are exempt from licensure as day care homes.

The three children to whom this exemption applies includes the family's natural or adopted children and any other persons under the age of 12 whether related or unrelated to the operator of the day care home. (DCFS Rule, Part 377.3 (c))

AUCTIONS

615

New Year's Day Gun Auction January 1st 9:00am. 950 Firearms inc/ Colt, Win. S&W, Browning, Military, Antique to NIB 2601 Lake Land Blvd.

Mattoon, IL Bauer Auction Service LLC. See complete sale bill & 6,000 photos at www.bauerauc tion.com NEW YEARS COLLECTABLE & HOUSEHOLD AUCTION 326 North Main Milledgeville January 1st 2017 At 11:00 A.M. Look up Auction zip 41970 for pictures and information.

Chuck Lindsay Auction 815-441-8681

AREA GARAGE SALES 624 ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES 705 I Buy: Antiques, collectibles, toys, post cards, etc.

815-445-6151.

WOOD / FUEL

746

FIREWOOD Split, Delivered & Stacked Hardwoods 815-626-6875

FURNITURE

755

Mattress sets: $99, Full Twin $129, Queen $159, King $199. Will deliver! Bunk Bed $298. Call 309451-7477 Twin, full, queen, king beds. Electric lift recliner, washer, dryer, refrig., sofas, dresser, recliner, table/ chairs 815-718-4385

PETS & PET SUPPLIES 775 AKC reg. German Shepherd pups blk/tan, dewormed & shots. Ready now Parents on site. $600 cash.

815-629-2606.

Baby Teddy Bear hamsters, free to good homes only.

Eating & drinking.

Call 779-245-8070 Free to good indoor loving home. Neutered male cat, all shots.

815-499-9923 WARNING ADS FOR FREE PETS Your beloved pet deserves a loving, caring home. The ad for your free pet may draw response from individuals who will sell your animal for research or breeding purposes.

Please screen respondents carefully when giving an animal away.

Your pet will thank you!

SNOWBLOWERS

782

Craftsman 3.5hp 21� snowblower, auger. Runs good.

815-625$120.

1606 MTD Snowblower 3hp 2 cyl 21� cut, new auger, good cond., $250 815973-3223

TICKETS / TRAVEL 787 & EVENTS No person or business, unless properly licensed by the Illinois Secretary of State, may sell ticket(s) for any sporting event or otherwise, for more than the price printed upon the face of the said ticket(s).

Only licensed ticket brokers may legally advertise, negotiate and execute the sale of ticket(s) for any amount over what is printed upon the face of ticket.

Classifieds Work!

Terry of Rock Falls sold his 2002 Pontiac Grand Am for $4200 using

CC

MISCELLANEOUS 796 FOR SALE

WANT TO BUY 795

1 pallet of Ice Melt. $220.

Builder Discount 815-626-4561

I Pay Cash 4 Gold, Silver, Coins 24/7 779-245-2950

Beautiful 85�

Crème color sofa, excellent cond.

Must Sell! $165.

779-861-1322 BF Goodrich P/245/55R18 sensor all 4 tires & wheels for 2014 Camaro. $550 OBO. 815-590-6544 Free Older 32� SHARP TV. Good cond.

815-973-4645 Kids mattress, 50�

L x 28�W x 5� thick.

815-626-6875 See More Online Photos, Commerce, Expanded Text ➛Look for WEB ID ➛Log on to: www.saukvalley. com classifieds ➛Enter the WEB ID in the WEB ID Box ➛View Photos, Expanded Text BUY ONLINE!! saukvalley.com CLASSIFIEDS Wood burning stove, 24�x24�x 24�, partial envelope, fire brick lined. Good cond. $275. I can load.

815-973-3223.

AUTOMOBILES

905

2002 Chevy Malibu,130k + mi. new tires, runs great.

New Price $2,100 OBO 815-219-2734 2005 Nissan Altima 144K mi.

Good cond. Lots of new parts. Heated leather seats. $2700/obo.

815-973-9600 creditautosales dixon.com Always over 100+ vehicles to choose from.

HAVING TROUBLE wording your ad? Call our classified department today. We'll be glad to help you. 626or 284SOLD SOLD.

AUTOMOBILES

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(815) 288-1716 (815) 288-2406

creditautodixon@yahoo.com Fax: (815) 288-6183 601 IL Route 2, Dixon, IL 61021

Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-6pm Saturday: 9am-3pm

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TRUCKS

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CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS

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12/31 Sudoku Answer

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2016 DODGE JOURNEY SE 26 mpg Hwy

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2013 FORD FOCUS SE

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Saukvalley.cam has searchable classified advertising online.

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Nice bunk bed, misc. furniture, nice antiques, lots of small kitchen appliances, like new chain saw, lots of knick knacks, space heaters, lots of outdoor items. More still coming in.

Go to auctionzip.com Auct. I.D. 19068 for photos.

$15,999*

2011 CHEVY MALIBU NAVIGATION

PUBLIC AUCTION

Auction City Sales Auctioneer: Ample Food Lee Hollingsworth Seating CLASSIFIEDS LASSIFIEDS LASSIFIEDS Stand Phone 815-288-5814 815-284-2224 IL. License #40000730 815-625-3600 dailyGAZETTE

SV Weekend • B11

Credit Auto Sales

905

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CLASSIFIEDS SAUK VALLEY dailyGAZETTE

TELEGRAPH

Sharp

$10,999*

2008 MERCURY MILAN V6 Premier

$6,999*

2012 NISSAN SENTRA 2.0 SR

$8,999* 2015 NISSAN ROGUE SELECT

$15,999* 2012 VW JETTA SE

$11,999* Mon.-Thur. 9-7 • Fri. 9-6 • Sat. 8:30am -4pm *Plus tax, title, license & doc fee. Payments based on 3.99% APR ďŹ nancing for 75 months with approved credit with vehicles up to $10,000 - $1,000 down, vehicles $10,000 - $20,000 - $2,000 down, vehicles $20,000+ - $3,000 down. Photos for illustration only.

Dealer not liable for errors.

SM-ST10947-1231

Wheels

Saturday, December 31, 2016

www.saukvalley.com

SV Weekend • B12

2016 Chevy Camaro

Paid Advertisement

By Mark Phelan Detroit Free Press

(TNS)

L

ighter, faster and more sophisticated, the 2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS (I give it four out of four stars) breaks out of the pony car corral to outrun Thoroughbreds like the BMW M4 and Lexus RC F. The days when people could dismiss the Camaro as a muscle car _ fast, but uncouth _ are over. The 2016 Camaro is new from the ground up, radically different and better, but still obviously a Chevrolet.

It uses a lightweight architecture that also underpins a pair of world-class luxury sport sedans, the Cadillac ATS and CTS. There’s no visual similarity among the three cars, but they share some chassis structures and technologies. That helps explain how a $45,100 Chevy can offer an adaptive suspension that’s more advanced than the $65,700 M4.

The M4, if you’re among those bewildered

by BMW’s multiplicity of models, is the sport coupe previously known as the M3.

In addition to the M4, the 2016 Camaro competes with sport coupes like the Audi S5, Dodge Challenger SRT8, Ford Mustang GT and Lexus RC F. That’s a small and elite group, and the Chevrolet leads it in many respects.

Camaro prices start at $25,700 for a base model powered by a new 275-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard on all Camaros. A quick-shifting eightspeed automatic is a $1,495 option.

Moving up to a 335-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 also costs $1,495.

The V-8 Camaro SS starts at $36,300. It comes with a 6.2-liter V-8 that produces 455 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque. Chevrolet also builds a Camaro convertible.

I tested a well-equipped Camaro SS coupe with the manual transmission, Apple CarPlay, navigation, 4G LTE w-fi hotspot, blind spot alert, Bose audio, 20-inch five-spoke low-gloss black aluminum wheels, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, head-up display, backup camera and more.

It stickered at $45,100. All prices exclude destination charges.

The EPA rates the 2016 Camaro SS at 16 mpg in the city, 25 of the highway and 19 combined.

The Camaro SS costs thousands less than comparably equipped models of the S5, M3, Challenger SRT8 and RC F. Mustang GT prices are competitive.

Unable to leave well enough alone, Chevy will add a 640-horsepower ZL1 model with a supercharged SS V-8, six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic later this year.

We’ll deal with the ZL1 when it arrives, assuming one slows down enough for us to catch a glimpse. Until then, we’ll make do with the SS’s M4-beating 4.0-second 0-60 time. Not to mention the Chevy’s sharp steering, Velcro road holding, and fourpiston Brembo brakes.

The Camaro SS looks great whether parked or at full tilt. Looking out of the low, wide sport coupe is another matter. Chevrolet has decided the Camaro’s looks depend on a low roof, fast windshield, rising beltline and high deck. All those elements reduce visibility, to the point that nobody should buy a Camaro without the optional blind spot and cross traffic alerts. A backup camera is standard.

The front seat is comfortable, but without

2015

$15,994 2014

$29,897

much storage for phones, glasses and the like. Rear legroom is minimal. The controls are big and legible. Chevrolet’s combination of good voice recognition, a big touch screen, Apple CarPlay and convenient controls for volume, tuning and climate is outstanding.

fuel economy with regular gasoline.

The trunk is small but consistent with most cars in the segment. Its lid, however, is small and inconveniently located in the top of the rear deck. Many Camaro owners will probably use the small back seat as a parcel shelf for.

Behind the Wheel 2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS Rear-wheel-drive 2+2 sport coupe Price as tested: $45,100 (excluding destination charge) Rating: Four out of four stars Reasons to buy: Performance; looks; value Shortcomings: Visibility; rear leg room; trunk size Competitive EPA fuel economy ratings (Manual transmission models where available) Chevrolet Camaro SS: 16 mpg city/25 highway/19 combined. Premium gasoline.

Audi S5 Prestige: 17/26/20. Premium gasoline.

BMW M4: 17/26/20. Premium gasoline.

Dodge Challenger SRT8: 14/23/17. Premium gasoline.

Ford Mustang GT Premium: 15/25/19.

The SS V-8 generates more power than all the competitors except the RC F and Challenger SRT8. The lightweight chassis _ about 230 pounds lighter than a manual transmission ‘15 SS _ gives the SS the best power-top-weight ratio in the class.

The EPA rates the 2016 Camaro SS at 16 mpg in the city, 25 of the highway and 19 combined. The combined figure is 1 mpg worse than the S5 and M3, 2 mpg better than the Challenger SRT8 and matches the Mustang GT and RC F. The Mustang is the only one that gets its rated power and

2013

$20,997 2014

$34,178

The others all specify premium.

Classic looks, modern features and value combine to make the new Camaro a contender not just for best pony car, but for the best sport coupe in the world.

Regular gasoline.

Lexus RC F (automatic transmission): 16/25/19. Premium gasoline.

Source: www.fueleconomy.gov Standard equipment: Anti-lock brakes; stability control; curtain air bags; front seat side air bags; front seat knee air bags; Brembo 4-piston brakes; blind spot and cross traffic alerts; rear parking sensor; backup camera; battery rundown protection; active rev matching manual transmission; limited slip differential; capless fueling; run flat tires; engine oil cooler; HID headlamps; LED signature lights; LED tail lights; LED daytime running lights; power mirrors, locks and windows; pushbutton start; 8-way power driver seat; 6-way power passenger seat; heated and ventilated front seats; dual zone automatic climate control; heated steering wheel; Bose audio; head-up display; auto-dimming mirrors; memory for driver settings; lighted sill plates; wireless phone charger; 8-in. touch screen; interior spectrum lighting; Bluetooth phone and audio compatible; Apple CarPlay; 1 year XM satellite radio; 6 months OnStar navigation service; 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot

2013

$24,888 2013

$37,995

Business

www.saukvalley.com

Section C

SV Weekend

Saturday, December 31, 2016

daveRAMSEY

LANARK | SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Financial straight talk.

For more advice, plus special readers offers, visit davesays.org or call 88822-PEACE.

Husband struggles with wife’s final wish

All roads lead to antiques

Photos by Philip Marruffo/pmarruffo@saukvalley.com

End of the Road Antiques is a store in a small cottage in Lanark that offers a wide variety of seasonal and unique antiques.

Store owner travels far and wide to find pieces

T

BY KACIE KLINGE For Sauk Valley Media

he owner of a Lanark antique store likes to think there’s no end to the treasures his customers will find in his store – and he travels a lot of roads to make sure and keep it that way.

Randy Welp, 66, owner of End of the Road Antiques, said if you’re looking for an original primitive antique, his shop is the place to go.

Rustic farmhouse trends have gained in home decor popularity over the past few years, which requires many people to stray from the beaten path when shopping for that special something for their home.

“Victorian is kind of out, and someday it’ll come back again, but primitive seems to stay in,” Welp said. “I like that general store, farm, rural kind of look in my shop.”

Antiquing has become a popular hobby over the past few years, helped along by shows such as “American Pickers,” and is something that has become a trend with all ages of people.

Welp said there’s definitely a mix of ages that come to his shop nowadays.

“More younger people are taking an interest in older stuff and that historical aspect of it and the quality of it,” he said.

ABOVE: Wooden bowls, pottery and other primitives are shown at the store.

LEFT: The store also offers gift items, including signs and candles.

End of the Road Antiques Address: 308 S.E. Lanark Avenue, Lanark Phone: 815-493-6487 Online: On Facebook Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday through Sunday (hours may vary)

ANTIQUES continued on C84

Dear Dave, My wife and I have been married 12 years. Last month, we found out she has terminal cancer and only 6 months to live. We’ve been fortunate enough to become fairly wealthy during our lives together, and she wants to buy me a boat. We always went fishing together, and her last wish is for me to have the boat I’ve always wanted. Even with this prognosis, I’ll be OK financially when she’s gone. Still, I can’t stand the thought of this. It’s just too painful. Do you have any advice?

– Andrew Dear Andrew, Andrew, I am so very sorry.

I hope you realize that you have the sweetest woman on Earth for your wife. Even with all she’s going through, her thoughts are of you and your happiness. That is one amazing lady.

The first thing I’d tell you both is to make sure your faith is intact. Hug her a lot, and keep talking to, praying with, and loving on each other. Be there for her all you can, and keep in mind that doctors can be wrong. It happens a lot, believe it or not, so don’t give up hope.

If she brings up the boat again, just smile and let her know it’s all about her right now. Remind her that she did the nicest thing possible many years ago when she agreed to spend the rest of her life with you. If she’s really stubborn about this idea – something tells me she is, and in the very best way possible – promise her that whether you win or lose this fight, you’ll buy that boat someday and name it after her.

In other words, just tell her the truth and be real. If she goes home to be with the Lord, there might come a day down the road when the pain you’ll feel has dulled just a little, and you find yourself sitting on that fishing boat that’s named after her. That would be OK. I’m sure she would be smiling at you while you reeled in a big one.

But you’ve got more important things to take care of right now – namely her.

God bless you both, Andrew.

– Dave RAMSEY continued on C84

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

Online shopping offers convenience, but returns still a hassle An estimated 15 to 30 percent of e-purchases are returned

BY LAUREN ZUMBACH Tribune News Service

CHICAGO – Holiday shoppers who enjoyed the convenience of fulfilling wish lists with a simple click of the “buy” button are learning this week that the return process for online purchases can still be a hassle.

E-commerce purchases can be made with little effort, but shoppers say the returns are almost never as straightforward.

Lauren O’Connor would rather not have made the trip to a post office Tuesday morning. But she needed to return a dog bed and coat she bought online at Lands’ End for her new puppy. Lands’ End doesn’t

have a store near her home, so carting her online purchase back to a bricks-and-mortar location, as some shoppers do, wasn’t an option.

That’s how she found herself waiting with an unwieldy square cardboard box while struggling to find a pen to address the package, all without forfeiting her place in a growing line.

“It’s just a big hassle,” she said.

Dealing with returns is a pain for retailers too, and one that’s only getting bigger, said Chris Zubel, a managing director at real estate services firm CBRE. Online sales are growing, and shoppers are more likely

to return items bought over the internet, Zubel said. That’s because on-screen images don’t always match what the item looks like in person, and consumers buying apparel often order the same item in multiple sizes or colors, intending to send all but one version back.

Estimates of the return rate for online purchases range from 15 to 30 percent, depending on the type of item purchased and who you ask, compared with 8 percent for all U.S. merchandise sales, according to a 2015 report from the National Retail Federation and software company The Retail Equation.

Tribune News Service

Holiday shoppers who enjoyed the convenience of fulfilling wish lists with a simple click of the “buy” button are learning that the HASSLE continued on C84 return process for online purchases isn’t as easy.

C2 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, December 31, 2016

NEW ADVOCATES

Philip Marruffo/pmarruffo@saukvalley.com

Amboy High School’s December Student of the Month is Cain Powers. He hopes to become an athletic trainer or a physical therapist.

Judge Daniel Fish (left) swore in Dana Francis of Sterling as a Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteer Oct. 31 at Lee County Courthouse in Dixon. CASA is a program in which trained volunteers represent abused and neglected children through the court proceedings. Photos submitted.

Amboy Student of the Month Cain Powers, 17, is Amboy High School’s November Student of the Month. His parents are Chris and Cindy Karlson and Steve and Nicole Powers, and his sisters are Delaney, 19, Mackenzie, 14, and Kiera, 9.

describe your group of friends? Very upbeat, loud, and very fun to be around.

Favorite class: Calculus, not because I like the math, but because the people who are in the class make it interesting to say the least.

What is something you learned in high school that you think you will never use? The law of conservation of mass.

Least-favorite class: English. Reading isn’t at the top of my list of favorite things to do.

What will you do after high school? Become an athletic trainer or a physical therapist.

What kind of music are you listening to? Rap, pop, and country.

What is your favorite:

Favorite teacher: Cynthia App: Youtube.

Carlson, calculus. I have been in her class for 3.5 Food: Chicken. years, and she has helped me with coming out of my Game or activity: Footshell a little more and not ball. being afraid to be wrong.

She always does her best to Movie: “Shawshank make sure all students are Redemption.” succeeding in life, whether in or out of school.

TV show: SportsCenter.

School activities in which you participate: Football, baseball, basketball, and Spanish Honor Society.

Civic, church, volunteer or other activities in which you participate: I set up the church and clean up after Mass.

How would you

Sports team: Chicago Blackhawks.

Is there a celebrity whom you look or act like? People tell me I resembled my younger sister at a young age, and she thinks she rules the world.

What’s the one thing in your life you can’t do

without? Sports. I always Who is your hero or have to be active in some- role model? My parents. thing.

They weren’t raised rich, and they’ve had to work What is your advice for for everything they have surviving high school? received. That taught me Don’t get behind in your that if there’s something work, because teachers in life I want, I need to aren’t going to wait for work for it. you to get it done. Once you’re in a hole, it’s hard What do you think your to climb out of. life will be like 10 years from now? I hope to be If you could change one out of college and workthing about your school, ing with a sports team what would it be and as an athletic trainer or why? I would definitely therapist. install air conditioning.

Is there anything else What scares you? Spiyou would want people ders. I don’t know why, but to know about you? they terrify me. And my I’m pretty good at trivia 9-year old sister. games. Just ask Alex Saccomando.

What’s something about you that nobody knows?

Is there someone you’d I’m pretty flexible. I play a like to send a shout out mean game of Twister. to? I’d like to thank my parents for always being If you could try any job there for me and supportfor a day, what would it ing me my whole life with be? Stand-up comedian. I school and sports alike. have a lot of things to say.

Also a thank you to Dinger. Even though I If you could go anymay not be the loudest where in the world for or most outgoing person free, where would it be? ever, she’s a teacher I’ve The Bahamas. I’ve always had every year in high wanted to go on a cruise school, and I’m much there. more comfortable in that classroom.

What is your proudest I know I always can moment? Why? Being turn to her for help or on the high honor roll guidance. She’s the best throughout high school teacher I’ve had, even while participating in though she burns Popthree sports.

Tarts.

GIVING TO VETERANS

Tara Steingraber of Dixon also was sworn. Applications are being accepted for a CASA spring class. For more information, call Cheryl Smith, Lee County CASA supervisor, at 815-288-1901 or 815440-6214.

OPTIMIST OF THE MONTH

Sterling Optimist Club and Challand Middle School have named Braden Hartman as the October Optimist of the Month. He received his award from Sam Meier, club member.

He is in sixth-grade, and is the son of Erin and Chad Hartman. Photo submitted by Meier.

IN BRIEF Tickets available for May concert ROCK FALLS – First Open Bible Church, 2105 E. U.S. Route 30, will have a concert May 26, starring Rhonda Vincent & The Rage.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m., followed by the concert at 7.

Tickets are $50; the number available is limited.

For information on reserving a place, call 815625-1957.

Students at Franklin Elementary School collected items for The Adjutant Illinois Veterans Home in LaSalle.

Two veterans and students, Diontae McCall (from left), Jameson Hanlon, Alyssa Gaffey, Megan Fennell, and Miley Dunkel are with the items collected. Among the items are basic supplies, such as shampoo, hairbrushes, puzzles, old movies, and disposable razors. Photo submitted by Amy Springman.

For more information, contact Fred Spitzzeri, club manager, at spitzzeri@aol.com or 630917-5858.

Movie to show about legislature

MORRISON – The film “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” will be shown at 2 p.m. Jan. 10 in the program room at Odell Public Library, 307 S. Madison St. This 1939 movie, starring Jimmy Stewart and Game ends with Jean Arthur, tells the of the idealistic U.S. triple team wins tale Sen. Jefferson Smith, DIXON – Dixon Monday appointed after the death of a sitting legislaNight Bridge Club has tor. announced its Dec. 19 Smith quickly finds results.

Tying for first were three himself in a confrontation with Jim Taylor, Swiss teams – Barb Hermes of Dixon and Max a media tycoon who controls their state, Baumgardner of Franklin over whether to build a Grove, and Diane and national boys’ camp or Don Pauser and Joyce an unneeded dam.

Gibson and Susie Smith, Donations will be all of Dixon. accepted. Popcorn and No game was played soft drinks will be proDec. 26.

The group meets at 5:30 vided.

Visit odellpubliclibrary. p.m. each Monday at the com or call the library at Post House Community 815-772-7323 for more Center, 100 W. Second St. information.

Saturday, December 31, 2016

Scrapbook www.saukvalley.com

SV Weekend • C3

NEIGHBORHOOD VISITORS

The red northern cardinal, blue jay, and the red-bellied woodpecker pause for photos Dec. 17 in Eileen Considine’s front yard in Oregon. While two enjoy the branches, one takes over the suet. Photos submitted by Considine.

MAJESTIC EAGLE

IN THE AIR WITHOUT WINGS Hot air balloons float along in September above Seven Canyons Basin near Sedona, Arizona. Photos submitted

by Steve Near of Rock Falls.

Considine saw this bald eagle Dec. 16 near the Oregon dam.

DIXON MELODY

A statue of a saxophonist attracted the photographer’s attention in October in the entranceway of AVP digital studios in Dixon. Photo submitted by Phillip LeFevre of Dixon.

Wanted: Photos from you A scrapbook is a book with blank pages, and that’s what our Scrapbook page is without your pictures. We want to fill the page with images that capture lives in the Sauk Valley. They can be submitted by email to photos@saukvalley.com or can be taken to the Sterling and Dixon offices.

C4 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, December 31, 2016

Reference book donations

The third-grade class at St. Mary received dictionaries.

Dixon Rotary Club purchased and donated dictionaries and thesauri to thirdthrough fifth-grade pupils in Dixon. Students in fifth grade at St. Mary School show their new thesauri Dec. 12, which were delivered by Melissa Glessner and Tim Broos. Photos submitted by Jaime Blatti.

Rotarians also gave thesauri to students in fifth grade at Madison School.

Third-grade pupils (left) at St. Anne School hold their dictionaries received on Dec. 14, and in St. Anne’s fifth grade (right), students display their theasuri.

Gemma Rubio and Dash Kamper, first-grade students at West Carroll Primary School exam different evergreen trees. As part of the Ag in the Classroom program, students were shown how to identify fir, pine, and spruce trees by looking at the needles. Photos submitted by Melinda Charboneau.

West Carroll first-grade students Riley Yochem and Aaron Garcia show their completed project during an Ag in the Classroom presentation. Students were introduced how much work goes into a Christmas tree. As part of the program they made an optical illusion, when the trees are spun around, they appear to have lights on them.

Students find out about Christmas tree farms SAVANNA – Kindergarten, first-, and third-grade students at West Carroll Primary School, along with Eastland first graders found out about Christmas tree farms during the month of December.

Through Ag in the Classroom, students are taught that many things they use are grown as crops.

According to the news

release, some crops are eaten, some crops are used to improve homes, and some to make clothes and other helpful items.

The classroom instruction included that Christmas trees, like corn, are grown on farms.

Tree growers do many of the same things other farmers do. But, a tree crop is different because

it takes 4 to 10 years before a one can be harvested. Also, a tree farmer must plant 1 to 3 new seedlings for every tree they harvest, because seedlings have many enemies, such as insects and disease, rabbits, and deer.

Like other crops, trees must be fertilized and weeded.

The farmer also prunes the trees to control how fast they grow and shapes them, so when they are sold, they have a shape that will be liked by buyers.

Tree for cutting must be selected and tagged.

Once cut, they are baled tightly to avoid branch damage during shipment to tree lots.

Because trees stay in the fields for so long, they have 4 to 10 years to be a habitat for small animals and insects.

They also make oxygen for all living things.

The program is designed to help students gain a greater awareness of the role of agriculture in the economy and society.

Ag in the Classroom

is offered through the University of Illinois Extension-Ogle County in partnership with Carroll County Farm Bureau, Ogle County Farm Bureau, Carroll County Soil and Water, and Ogle County Soil and Water.

For more information, call the Ogle County Extension office at 815732-2191.

Saturday, December 31, 2016

www.saukvalley.com

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS Korbin Michael-Ray Kessler

and Ronda Paulson and Dianne Schrader, all of Freeport, and Denny and Deb Bull of Pearl K a t l y n D e n n i n g o f City.

Rock Falls and Brandon Kessler of Sterling are Jazmyn Elizabeth the parents of a son born Ann Bender at 4:04 p.m. Nov. 22, Brittney Bender of 2016, at KSB Hospital in Prophetstown is the Dixon.

Korbin M i c h a e l - mother of a daughter Ray Kessler weighed born at 11:35 p.m. Dec. 6 pounds, 2 ounces at 17, 2016, at CGH Medibirth and was 18.5 inch- cal Center in Sterling.

Jazmyn Elizabeth es in length.

Maternal grandparents Ann Bender weighed 9 are Krista and Gordon pounds at birth and was 22 inches in length.

Denning of Rock Falls.

Paternal grandparents Maternal grandmothare Melissa Gibbons and er is Joanne Bender of Ray Hubbs, both of Ster- Prophetstown. ling, and Rodney Kessler Maternal greatof Brownsville, Wiscon- grandmother is Cindy sin.

Snitchler of Plano, Maternal great-grand- Texas. parents are Sharon and Gary Handel and Genie Senaka and Pete Olalde, all of Octavia Hattie Sterling.

Paternal great-grandPalmer mothers are Jean Kessler Kelli Keefer and Senaka of Brownsville, Wiscon- Palmer of Rock Falls are sin, and Janice Braner of the parents of a daughGretchin, Oregon. ter born at 7:12 a.m.

Lincoln Riley Jackson Meghan and Aaron Jackson of Rock Falls are the parents of a son born at 8:32 a.m. Dec. 14, 2016, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Lincoln Riley Jackson weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces at birth and was 19 inches in length.

He is welcomed by Adalynn Jackson, 6, and Makynlee Jackson, 2.

Maternal grandparents are Michael Durham and Tracey Durham, both of Sterling.

Paternal grandparents are Tammy Peppers of Rock Falls and the late Gary Jackson.

Xander Nathaniel Holloman Shawntai Royer of Rock Falls and Nathan Holloman of Dixon are the parents of a son born at 9:50 p.m. Dec. 13, 2016, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Xander Nathaniel Holloman weighed 9 pounds, 7 ounces at birth and was 21 inches in length.

He is welcomed by Nevaeh Holloman, 9, and Zayden Royer, 3.

Maternal grandparents are Billy Jo Shultheis of LaSalle and the late Terry Royer.

Paternal grandmother is the late Linda Sue Johns.

Maternal great-grandparents are Terry and Marilyn Royer of Rock Falls.

Benson Douglas Wells Allie and Brett Wells of Sterling are the parents of a son born at 4:43 p.m. Dec. 5, 2016, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Benson Douglas Wells weighed 7 pounds, 5 ounces at birth and was 21.5 inches in length.

He is welcomed by Ava, 4.

Maternal grandparents are Dawn and Brian Bull of Lanark and Rich and Carrie Schrader of Winnebago.

Paternal grandparents are Richard and Sherry Wells of Sterling.

Maternal great-grandparents are Douglas

Dec. 13, 2016, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Senaka Octavia Hattie Palmer weighed 6 pounds, 12 ounces at birth and was 20 inches in length.

She is welcomed by Deonte Cotton, 14, and Serenity Palmer, 9.

Maternal grandparents are Darla and William Wangelin and Tim Keefer and Alicia Brown, all of Rock Falls.

Paternal grandparents are Hattie Palmer and Mitchell Terrell, both of Chicago.

Kylie Marie Prebula Kendra and Derek Prebula of Dixon are the parents of a daughter born at 7:59 p.m. Dec. 16, 2016, at KSB Hospital in Dixon.

Kylie Marie Prebula weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce at birth and was 20 inches in length.

She is welcomed by Riley Ann Prebula, 2.

Damari Lee-Lamonte Davis Marissa Thompson and Isaiah Davis of Sterling are the parents of a son born at 4:24 a.m. Oct. 15, 2016, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Damari Lee-Lamonte Davis weighted 7 pounds, 9 ounces at birth and was 20 inches in length.

Maternal grandparents are Michelle Hanson of Sterling and Melvin Thompson of Galesburg.

Paternal grandparents are Dana Galindo and Joshua Davis, both of Sterling.

Maternal great-grandparents are Sam Sodaro and Sue Sodaro, both of Rock Falls.

Paternal great-grandmother is Margie Galindo of Sterling.

Information sought The birth announcement for Andrew Colin Torres cannot be printed without additional information. The editorial department has been unable to reach the submitter. If those who submitted it could call 815-625-3600, ext. 5501, it would be appreciated.

SV Weekend • C5

THANK GOODNESS

Thankful for Breakfast with Santa support JOHN STAUTER Sterling

The Kiwanis Club of Sterling would like to thank all who took part in our Breakfast with Santa. We appreciated all who made it to the breakfast.

Our Kiwanis motto says, “We serve the children of the world,” and

working the breakfast is a fun way to do this.

All of our members look forward to working this event, and it is very fulfilling.

Breakfast with Santa would not be possible without the help of Sterling Moose Lodge 726; they are the greatest to work with and always are ready to help.

The Sauk Valley Area Chamber and Sterling Today always help and promote this event for us; thank you.

To the individuals and businesses Sterling McDonald’s, Walgreens in Sterling, Roy Dern State Farm in Sterling, and those we missed who donated time and supplies, we say, “thank you.”

To the Kiwanis Key clubs at Sterling and Newman, thank you for your help; you do a great job.

A special thanks to Santa (who has a busy schedule this time of the year); thanks for

being there. To all the families and children, thank you for making this a success.

The pictures taken with Santa always are a big hit, and Walgreens did a terrific job; thank you.

All of the funds raised from this event go to our scholarships for local youths at the three high schools (Sterling, Newman, and Rock Falls).

Again, thanks to all, and we hope to do this for many more years.

Thank Goodness policy Sauk Valley Media accepts letters to the editor (300 words or less) from nonprofit and volunteer groups who want to thank the community for its support.

Letters may be emailed to letters@saukvalley.com or sent to Sauk Valley Media, 3200 E. Lincolnway, P.O. Box 498, Sterling, IL 61081.

Deadline to submit community section copy The deadline to submit event information, including photos, for the SV Weekend Community pages is 2 weeks before the event.

Information may be submitted in writing by hand, mail, fax or email at the Dixon or Sterling offices.

Information on events

that already have taken place will be published as soon as possible, in the order in which it is received. Given the volume of such information,

that could be 2 weeks or more after the event.

Photos will be published as space permits.

For information, call 815-625-3600, ext. 5575.

SUPPORT GROUPS, CLUBS, AND SERVICES Today Overeaters Anonymous, 9 a.m., Gateway Faith Fellowship parsonage, 701 14th Ave., Fulton, 563-321-8577.

Overeaters Anonymous, 9 a.m., lower-level entrance, Church of God, 816 S. Clay St., Mount Carroll.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 9 a.m., closed, Big Book, United Methodist Church, 201 E. Chicago Ave., Davis Junction.

Alcoholics Anonymous Gratitude Group, 9 a.m., open; noon, open; 6 p.m., open, lower level, Loveland Community House, 513 W. Second St., Dixon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 9:30 a.m., closed, former St. Anne Grade School, 32 N. Jones Ave., Amboy, 815-857-2315.

Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous, 10:30 a.m., closed; 7 p.m., closed, 808 Freeport Road, Sterling.

Narcotics Anonymous Hope Without Dope, noon, in the back of Lifescape Community Services, 1901 First Ave., Sterling, 815-5353748, 24-hour hotline 844-6787684.

Alcoholics Anonymous, noon, closed; 7 p.m., closed (5), Bazaar Americana, 609 W. Third St., Sterling.

Sauk Valley Alcoholics Anonymous Group, noon, open, Old Timers; 7 p.m., open, family fun night, bring a friend, back door, 1503 First Ave., Suite D, Rock Falls.

Overeaters Anonymous, 5 p.m., lower-level entrance, Church of God, 816 S. Clay St., Mount Carroll, 630-709-7807.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., closed, First Presbyterian Church, 1100 Calvin Road, Rochelle.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., steps, traditions, closed, Village of Progress, 710 S. 13th St., Oregon.

Sunday New Year’s Day: Cancellations have not been received for these listings; check with organizers to see whether they are still meeting.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 a.m., closed; noon open; 1 p.m., closed, Spanish; 7 p.m., closed, Bazaar Americana, 609 W. Third St., Sterling.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 10 a.m., open, barn, Horizon View Farm, 2422 N. River Road, Oregon.

Sauk Valley Alcoholics Anonymous Group, 10 a.m.-noon, open, Big Book, back door, 1503 First Ave., Suite D, Rock Falls.

Latin American Social Club meeting, 3 p.m., 2708 W. Fourth St., Sterling, 815-625-8290.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 6 p.m., closed, Church of St. Anne, 401 N. Cherry St., Morrison.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., closed, Spanish, St. Patrick Catholic Church, 236 Kelly Drive, Rochelle.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., open, Rochelle Community Hospital, 900 N. Second St., Rochelle.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., closed, 808 Freeport

Road, Sterling.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., closed, clearance required, BAAbble on for Life Prison Group, 815-973-6150.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7:30 p.m., closed, 304 Seventh Ave. W, Lyndon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., closed (4), Mount Morris Senior Center, 9 E. Front St. Monday New Year’s Day Holiday: Cancellations have not been received for these listings; check with organizers to see whether they are still meeting Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 a.m., open, First United Methodist Church, 402 First Ave., Forreston.

Abuse Changing team, 815625-0338.

Mercy Nursing Services free blood pressure clinic, 8:30-10:30 a.m., YMCA, 2505 YMCA Way, Sterling.

Dixon Rotary Club, noon, Mama Cimino’s, 104 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon, Melissa, 815-2845287.

Alcoholics Anonymous Gratitude Group, noon, step, closed; 6 p.m. open, lower level, Loveland Community House, 513 W. Second St., Dixon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, noon, open, St. Paul Lutheran Church, 114 S. Fifth St., Oregon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, noon, closed, Big Book; 6 p.m., closed, Spanish; 7 p.m., open, beginners, Bazaar Americana, 609 W. Third St., Sterling.

Sauk Valley Alcoholics Anonymous Group, noon, open, Sunshine meeting, back door, 1503 First Ave., Suite D, Rock Falls.

Tampico Community Club, noon, Tampico Area Community Building, 106 W. Market St., 815438-2789.

TOPS, 4 p.m. weigh-in, 4:30 p.m. meeting; 5:30 p.m. weigh-in, 6 p.m. meeting, Hub City Senior Center, 401 Cherry Ave., Rochelle.

TOPS Chapter IL 634 meeting, 4:30 p.m., 205 S. Walnut St., Franklin Grove.

Celebrate Recovery, 6-8 p.m., New Hope Baptist Church, 902 W. 12th St., Rock Falls; John Mattingly, 815-631-3896.

Celebrate Recovery, 6-8 p.m., Crossroads Community Church, 201 W. Market St., Morrison; Penny, 815-590-8003.

Rock Falls Rotary, 6 p.m., Beelendorf’s Deli, 204 W. 10th St. Amboy American Legion Post 453, 6:30 p.m., Community Room, Amboy Family Restaurant and Pizza, 211 E. Main St., 815-8495219.

VFW Post 5418 Men’s Auxiliary, 7 p.m., 217 First Ave., Rock Falls, 815-626-3513.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., open, Immanuel Lutheran Church, 960 N. U.S. Route 52, Amboy.

Dixon Elks Lodge 779 Auxiliary, 7 p.m., 1279 Franklin Grove Road.

Mount Carroll Monday Night Al-Anon-Alateen, 7 p.m., Church of God, 816 Clay St. Petunia City Quilters, 7 p.m.,

First Presbyterian Church, 110 E. Third St., Dixon, 815-677-0119.

Dixon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., closed, step study, Elim Reformed Church, 140 S. Church Road, Kings.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., closed, 808 Freeport Road, Sterling.

Rock Falls American Legion Post 902, 7 p.m., 712 Fourth Ave., 815-626-3862.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., step study, closed, Church of St. Anne, 401 N. Cherry St., Morrison.

Sauk Valley Al-Anon GroupAlateen, 7 p.m., back door, 1503 First Ave., Suite D, Rock Falls.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7:30 p.m., closed, Eells Room, St. Luke Episcopal Church, 207 W. Third St., Dixon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., closed (3), First Presbyterian Church, 502 Third St., Savanna.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., open, 217 N. Hickory St., Shannon.

Tuesday Childhood immunization clinic; women, infants and children clinic; and family planning services, Lee County Health Department, 309 S. Galena Ave., Suite 100, Dixon. Appointments: 815284-3371.

Kiwanis Club of Sterling, 6:457:45 a.m., Ryberg Auditorium, CGH Medical Center, 100 E. LeFevre Road, Sterling, 815-499-4866.

Blood pressure screenings, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Whiteside County Health Department, 1300 W. Second St., Rock Falls, 815-6262230.

Sisters in Christ, 9 a.m., Congregational Church, 1602 13th Ave., Rock Falls.

Golden K Kiwanis, 9 a.m., Post House Community Center, 100 W. Second St. Gaffey Home Nursing and Hospice blood pressure clinic, 9 a.m.- noon, Kroger, 2301 Locust St., Sterling, 815-626-3467.

Weight Watchers, 9:30 a.m. and 6 p.m., Loveland Community House, 513 W. Second St., Dixon.

Free blood pressure clinic, 10-11:30 a.m., Oregon Living & Rehab Center, 811 S. 10th St. Blood pressure checks and Caregiver Support Group, 10 a.m., Rock River Center, 810 S. 10th St., Oregon, 815-732-3252.

Commodities, 10-11 a.m., Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, 815622-9230.

Senior Information Services, 10 a.m. to noon, Heritage Center, 106 S. Broad St., Lanark, 800541-5479.

Alcoholics Anonymous Gratitude Group, noon, open; 6 p.m. women’s, open, lower level, Loveland Community House, 513 W. Second St., Dixon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, noon, closed, St. Paul Lutheran Church, 114 S. Fifth St., Oregon.

Dixon Noon Lions, noon, private dining room, KSB Hospital, 403 E. First St., Dixon, 815-973-2105.

Public welcome.

Sterling Rotary Club, noon-1 p.m., YWCA of the Sauk Valley, 412 First Ave., Sterling.

Alcoholics Anonymous, noon, closed, 12x12; 3:30 p.m., closed; 7 p.m., closed, Big Book, Bazaar Americana, 609 W. Third St., Sterling.

Volunteer Care Center of Lee County, 2-5 p.m., 101 W. Second St., Dixon. Appointment: 815-2849555.

Dixon TOPS IL 617 meeting, 5 p.m., Eells meeting room, St. Luke Episcopal Church, 221 W. Third St., Dixon, 815-288-1328.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group, 5:30 p.m., Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling.

Overeaters Anonymous, 6 p.m., Post House Community Center, 100 W. Second St., Dixon, 815-379-2293.

Twin City Educational Scholarship Board meeting, 6 p.m., YWCA of the Sauk Valley, 412 First Ave., Sterling, 815-625-7237.

TOPS 253, 6-7:30 p.m., Morningside of Sterling, 2705 Avenue E, Sterling, 815-622-2820.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., closed, 606 N. Brown Ave., Ashton.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., closed, 808 Freeport Road, Sterling.

Alcoholics Anonymous Beginners, 7 p.m., closed; 8 p.m., closed, First Presbyterian Church, 410 Second Ave., Sterling.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., open, Rolling Hills Progress Center, 201 state Route 64, Lanark.

Sauk Valley Alcoholics Anonymous Group, 7 p.m., open, As Bill Sees It, back door, 1503 First Ave., Suite D, Rock Falls.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7:30 p.m., closed, Village of Progress, 710 S. 13th St., Oregon.

Rock Falls Eastern Star, 8 p.m., 117 Second, Rock Falls.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., home meeting, closed, call 815284-2589.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., closed, All Saints Lutheran Church, 624 Luther Drive, Byron.

Wednesday Childhood immunization clinic; women, infants and children clinic; and family planning services, Lee County Health Department, 309 S. Galena Ave., Suite 100, Dixon. Appointments: 815284-3371.

Dixon Kiwanis Club meeting, 7 a.m., private dining room, KSB Hospital, 403 E. First St., Dixon.

Blood pressure screenings, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Whiteside County Health Department, 1300 W. Second St., Rock Falls, 815-6262230.

Dixon Correctional retiree breakfast, 8 a.m., Rivers Edge Inn, 2303 W. First St., Dixon.

Mercy Nursing Services free blood pressure clinic, 9-11 a.m., Northland Mall, 2900 E. Lincolnway, Sterling.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 9 a.m., closed, Church of the Brethren, 215 North Court St., Dixon.

COMMUNITY EVENTS Today Farmers Market, 8 a.m.-noon, Twin City Market, indoors, 106 Avenue A, Sterling, 815-626-8610.

Sunday There are no events today.

Monday New Year’s Day Holiday: Cancellations have not been received for these listings; check with organizers to see whether they are still meeting.

Quilting, 9:30 a.m., Rock River Center, 810 S. 10th Ave., Oregon, 815-732-3252.

Situation Room, 10 a.m., Rock River Center, 810 S. 10th Ave., Oregon, 815-732-3252.

Hand and Foot cards, 12:15 p.m., Rock River Center, 810 S. 10th St., Oregon, 815-732-3252.

Tacos, 4-8 p.m., Latin American Social Club, 2708 W. Fourth St., Sterling, 815-625-8290.

Bingo, Dixon Elks Lodge No. 779, 4:30 p.m. doors open, 5:30 p.m. kitchen opens, and 6:30 p.m. bingo begins, 1279 Franklin Grove Road, 815-288-3557. No computers.

Loaves and Fishes, 5-6 p.m., Holloway Center, St. Patrick Catholic Church, 612 Highland Ave., Dixon, 815-284-7719. A free, hot meal for the needy.

Sauk Valley Chess Club, 6:308:30 p.m., Northland Mall, 2900 E. Lincolnway, Sterling; 815-622-8838.

Tuesday Open pool, open cards, open Wii games, and computer lab, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St.,

Sterling, 815-622-9230.

Open pool, open cards, open Wii games, and computer lab, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Post House Community Center, 100 W. Second St., Dixon, 815-288-9236.

Coffee, 8 a.m., Mount Morris Senior Center, 9 E. Front St., 815734-6335.

Pool players, 8:30 a.m., Rock River Center, 810 S. 10th St., Oregon, 815-732-3252.

Bingo and doughnuts, 9 to 10 a.m., Hub City Senior Center, 401 Cherry Ave., Rochelle, 815-5625050.

Burn exercise class, 8:30-9 a.m., Polo Area Senior Services, 101 E. Mason St., Polo, 815-946-3818.

Morning Whittle, 9 a.m., Rock River Center, 810 S. 10th St., Oregon, 815-732-3252.

Boot Scootin’ Seniors, 9:15

a.m., Rock River Center, 810 S. 10th St., Oregon, 815-732-3252.

Cribbage, 9:30 a.m., Rock River Center, 810 S. 10th St., Oregon, 815-732-3252.

313 card game and Wii Bowling, 10 a.m., Hub City Senior Center, 401 Cherry Ave., Rochelle, 815562-5050.

Community coffee and doughnuts, 10 a.m. Oregon Living & Rehab Center, 811 S. 10th St., 815732-7994.

Line dancing, 10-11 a.m., Post House Community Center, 100 W. Second St., Dixon, 815-288-9236.

Line dancing, 10:30 a.m., Polo Area Senior Services, 101 E. Mason St., Polo, 815-946-3818.

Lifescape lunch, 11:30 a.m., Post House Community Center, 100 W. Second St., Dixon, 815288-9236. Sign up by 10 a.m.

previous business day.

Lunch, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, 815622-9230.

Organized Wii Bowling games, noon, Post House Community Center, 100 W. Second St., Dixon.

Euchre, 12:30 p.m., Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, 815-622-9230.

Pinochle, 1 p.m., Post House Community Center, 100 W. Second St., Dixon.

Euchre 101, 1 p.m., Robert Fulton Community Center and Transit Facility, 912 Fourth St., Fulton, 815589-3925.

Karaoke, 1-4 p.m., Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, 815-622-9230.

Dixon Coin Club, coin grading, 6 p.m., and auction, 7 p.m., Dixon

Elks Lodge, 1279 Franklin Grove Road, 815-441-8343 .

Wednesday Coffee, 8 a.m., Mount Morris Senior Center, 9 E. Front St., 815734-6335.

Open pool, open cards, open Wii games, and computer lab, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling, 815-622-9230.

Open pool, open cards, open Wii games, and computer lab, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Post House Community Center, 100 W. Second St., Dixon, 815-288-9236.

Pool players, 8:30 a.m., Rock River Center, 810 S. 10th St., Oregon, 815-732-3252.

Stretch & Move, 9 a.m., Mount Morris Senior Center, 9 E. Front St., 815-734-6335.

C6 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, December 31, 2016

Relationship speed gives woman cause to pause Dear Abby: I’m a 27-year-old mother of three in the process of divorcing a man I have been with for 7 years, during 2 of which we were married. We have remained civil up to this point, although he is hurt because I’m the one who ended things.

I decided to jump right back into the dating scene. I have been out a couple times, but I haven’t really been looking for anything specific.

My thinking was “whatever happens, happens.”

But 2 months ago I met a guy at work. He’s involved in a bowling league, and he invited me to come watch him one Friday. When I saw him away from the job, I

dearABBY Dear Abby is written

by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips. The column is provided through Universal Uclick.

fell in love. We really hit it off.

We have a ton in common, I already have been introduced to most of his family (whom I love) and every time we are together, there is never a dull moment.

With my divorce and all, am I moving too fast?

It only has been a short while, but the feelings I

have for this man cannot cessful career, but gave be ignored. it up to pursue one he – Overcome in Ohio thought would be more enjoyable (movie producDear Overcome: Yes, all er), which meant he has of this is moving too fast. a very unstable income.

While I’m not advising Our family has struggled you to ignore your feelwith money ever since. ings, I urge you to slow I recently heard that things down. If your rela- Dad was kicked out of his tionship with this person house, and I have no idea is what you think it is, it where he is living now. He will stand the test of time. has been doing drugs and You both have a lot of other questionable things getting to know each that are uncomfortable to other ahead of you. You hear about or to discuss have a divorce to get with him. through, with all of the I’m applying to colleges emotions that go with it. now and need money, so This man may be your I feel obligated to keep in Prince Charming, but contact with him. That only time will tell for sure. way, I can make him pay for some of the applications since Mom can’t Dear Abby: My father do it alone. I don’t know was never very involved what to do. Everyone I in my life. He had a suc-

PASTOR’S CORNER

ask tells me to cut off contact with him, but I feel trapped. Thoughts?

– Trapped in California Dear Trapped: I’m sorry your father has been such a disappointment. But if you expect a drug-using, recently-evicted deadbeat to fund any portion of your college education, you are dreaming. You should not feel you can depend upon him for anything.

My thought is that you should find a job ASAP to help you fund your college applications yourself, and make an appointment to talk with a counselor at your high school about this. I’m sure it won’t be the first time he or she has heard about a predicament

like yours, and perhaps he or she can suggest some scholarships or financial assistance for you. Your local library or the Internet would be other good sources for researching what’s available and if you qualify.

Dear Readers: Finally, 2016 is over. Out with the old year, in with the new one. Please accept my heartfelt good wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous 2017. And, as I caution you every year – if you are partying tonight, please be safe.

– Love, Abbey Contact Dear Abby at DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

CHRISTMAS PRESENTS TO TROOPS

Pressing on into new year We may try, but we cannot escape the past. But neither can we live there.

Some of us cannot get over traumatic or lifechanging experiences and unexplainable turns that have shaped us. While others look back to the “good old days” and wish and pray that we could be there again. The new year gives us the opportunity to think about the past ... even as we enter the future.

The Apostle Paul knew how to reflect on, and come to grips with, the past, but his preoccupation was with the present, with the future, with what is and what is to come.

His goal was “to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of the suffer-

In the days of January, we can think about pressing on, about an upward The Rev. Allen call, about what lies Campbell is the pastor ahead. This is, admittedof First Conly, a hopeful orientation. gregational But our hope is one of Church in God’s greatest gifts to us, Rock Falls. one of our most helpful and necessary resources.

Staying close to the scripture helps us see again that our ministry is possiing.” But then, he would ble only as we allow Jesus confess that he was not to minister to us. there yet: he was not A new year begins. May whole, not yet perfect, but it mark a turning point his mind was focused on in your own life ... as you the destination. “I press forget what lies behind on ... forgetting what lies and press forward toward behind and straining for- the goal of the upward ward to what lies ahead. call of God in Christ Jesus.

I press on toward the New insights and fresh goal for the prize of the revelations are there for those who open themheavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians selves prayerfully to the word.

3:12-14

allenCAMPBELL

Vintage Radio 105.5 WQUD-FM in Erie recently asked its listeners to donate items to be sent to soldiers overseas. A number of people helped pack the donations to go to the 386th Airlift Division in Kuwait. About $1,000 worth of AA and D batteries with hundreds of snack packs, disinfectant wipes, mouse traps, nuts, cookies, and hard candy were packed into 14 large boxes and sent out Dec. 9. Photo submitted by Aaron Dail.

TRADITIONAL SQUARE DANCING

Morrison Grand Square members and guests took part in a square dance recently at Odell Public Library in Morrison. Beginner square dance lessons will be offered from 7 to 9 p.m. every Monday starting Jan. 9 in the library’s community room at 307 S. Madison St. The first lesson is free; additional lessons are $5 each. All are welcome. Dancing partners are provided for individuals, if needed. For more information, visit squaredancemorrison.com or call Ann at 815-772-3616 or Jaci at 815535-6347.

AREA COMPANY RECEIVES AWARD The Chicago Roofing Contractors Association’s 2016 Gold Medal Safety Award was presented in early December to Sterling Commercial Roofing Inc. At the ceremony are Safety Check Local 11 and other roofing contractors (from left) Greg outstanding, Marty outstanding, Mark Duffy, Frank Marino, and Mark Moran; and Kevin Froeter, president and Tim Beard, vice president of Sterling Roofing; and Gary Menzel. Not pictured are Shawn Sullivan and Bob Burch. The recognition is given to a roofing contractor firm in honor of its outstanding safety record and appreciation of a conscientious effort to promote safe working conditions throughout the roofing and waterproofing industry.

Photo submitted by Althea Beard.

Saturday, December 31, 2016

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4-H KEY AWARD RECIPIENTS

The Illinois 4-H Key Award emphasizes community service and mentorship by 4-H members throughout their 4-H career. State members were recognized Nov. 19 in Champaign. Richard McFarland presented the awards on behalf of the H. Richard and Sarah F. McFarland Endowed 4-H Youth Leadership and Character Development Support Fund to (front row, from left) Brandi Welch and Katlyn Helton, both of Mercer County; Abigail Mongan and Natalie Carlson, both of Ogle County; and Justene Jennings of White County; and (back row) Courtney Wiedenmann of Mercer County, Zachary Perkins of Kendall County; Kyle Hubb and Drew Groezinger, both of JoDaviess County; and Josephine Hubele of White County. Not pictured are Austin Brockmann of Boone County; Jacob Hubele of White County; and Calista Kern-Lyons of Lee County. Photo submitted by Ogle County Extension.

Project winners named veterinary science Chana: Brenna Berns, horse and pony; Lane Halverson, woodworking; Emma-Kay Hunderman, rabbits; Braden Rogers, Chana, dairy goats Freeport: Casey Besse, beef; Tyler Besse, beef Rockford: Kade Boatman, beef; Kendall Boatman, beef Oregon: Katelyn Bowers, child development; Samantha Bowers, veterinary science; Mariah Drake, poultry; Chelsea Eden, swine; Levi Eden, swine; Jackson Glendenning, beef; Jared Glendenning, beef; Andrew Hinrichs, small engines; Bryan Immel, woodworking; Wesley Immel, visual arts; Katrina Lowry, beef; Anna Marquardt, visual arts; Faith Marquardt, health; Allissa Martin, beef; Bode Martin, beef; Casey Martin, beef; Karli Gold Project Miller, health; Kyle Miller, Honor forestry; Jordan Mingus, Rochelle: Callie Ackland, natural resources; Abigail rabbits; Carley Ackland, Mongan, rabbits; Grace reading; Katelyn Ackland, Mongan, clothing and texclothing and textiles; tiles; Sarah Murray, horse Megan Ackland, comand pony; Brenna Noon, puter; Ava Coglianese, dairy cattle; Gracie Prose, rabbits; Liberty Hayes, clothing and textiles; horse and pony; Amanda Johnathan Prose, inteHeadon, horse and pony; rior design; Jaden Scott, Nathan Keys, vegetable woodworking; Jazmyne gardening; Kyra Rimstidt, Swope, child developpygmy goats; Megan ment; Olivia Thomas, Seebach, horse and pony; poultry; Abbie Ring, meat Veronica Vaughn, dogs; goats; Anna Ring, beef; Cassidy Vincent, horse Kelly Stranberg, video; and pony Olivia Stranberg, do your Polo: Abigail Akins, own thing swine; Isaac Akins, woodMount Morris: Kaedi working; Isaiah Akins, Callaway, clothing and geology; Stephanie Sofotextiles, Brady Davis, lo, citizenship horse and pony; Alex Byron: Tommy Grygiel, beef; Danielle Allen, geology; Teddy Hagemann, beef; Megan Beauchem, horse and Hagemann, food and pony; Carson Condernutrition; Rebecca Hough, man, visual arts; Carter poultry; Robert Hough Conderman, electricity; V, tractor; Evan Kosick, Collin Conderman, phobeef; Garret Moser, crops; tography; Lauren Carlson, Emmett Peterson, poultry; citizenship; Natalie CarlAbigail Wehler, visual arts; son, leadership; William Micah Wehler, entomolCarlson, food and nutriogy; Rachael Wetzel, tion; Alexandria Cassens, exploratory; Madalin Rusinterior design; Nicholas sell, theater arts: Xander Cassens, swine; Allison Schier, vegetable gardenDruien, rabbits; Abraham ing Eden, welding; Maggie Monroe Center: Aubrey Eden, food and nutriCraig, swine; Jackson tion; Bruce Gehrke, beef; Craig, swine; Anna HageRenee Gehrke, beef; mann, visual arts; Autumn Kate Harland, visual arts; Hagemann, crops Aubree Jaspers, beef; Leaf River: Isaac Natalie Ketter, photograCharbonneau, poultry; phy; Elizabeth McKinstry- Kaden Lingbeck, forestry; Sherburn, consumer edu- Kaeden Motszko, tractor, cation; Conner Reeverts, Hannah Sheely, photogswine; Ryan Reeverts, raphy; Ashley Williams, swine; Lydia Sherburne, visual arts; Lacie Williams, OREGON – Ogle County 4-H’ers were recognized for excellence in 4-H project work at the Nov. 13 4-H Achievement Celebration at Byron Junior High School Theater.

The program featured the presentation of numerous awards including the “County Project Honor Award.” The award rewards 4-H youth for outstanding accomplishments in specific project areas of their choosing. In addition to efforts to gain knowledge about their favorite project area, youth get points toward this award through participation in club, county, state, and international events, and through leadership practices. Two levels are recognized: silver and gold.

All 4-H’ers are eligible to win the award annually.

This year’s winners are:

dairy cattle; Taylor Yordy, horse and pony Stillman Valley: Grace Costello, small engines; Samantha Malk, cats; Kallista McIntyre sheep; Blakelynn Swanson, sheep Forreston: Casey DeVries, poultry Lindenwood: Garrett Hackbarth, sheep; Jacob Hackbarth, sheep; Eric Seaworth, swine, Hannah Seaworth, swine Dixon: Julia Heller, food and nutrition Davis Junction: Matthew Hickey, tractor; Justin Simpson, photography Franklin Grove: Joshua Mallette, visual arts; Connor Ross, intercultural Clinton, Wisconsin: Dalissa Moser, sheep Creston: Danica Ward, food and nutrition

Silver Project Honor

Mount Morris: Logan Arvigo, horse and pony; Julie Davis, horse and pony Byron: Paige Beauchem, rabbits; Maddie Harland, visual arts Leaf River: Ethan Bocker, aerospace, Aidan Yordy, beef Lindenwood: Matthew Drendel, beef; Anna Roush, visual arts; Faith Roush, visual arts; Lila Roush, veterinary science Oregon: Michaela Eden, swine; Adam Glendenning, beef; Sabrina Leather, food and nutrition; Seth Rote, rabbits; Alex Stranberg, visual arts Davis Junction: Cole Roach, swine Stillman Valley: Michelle Johnson, visual arts German Valley: Hannah Schnierla, photography Rochelle: Sienna Seebach, vegetable gardening, Abby Yagow, sheep Baileyville: Dylon Timmer, woodworking Monroe Center: Luke Tompkin, rabbits Dixon: Jordyn West, photography, Jozey WestMoore, food and nutrition

Gold Cloverbud Winners Ogle County 4-H’ers between the ages of 5 and 7 are known as Cloverbuds. Those who obtain a score of 40 or above on the Cloverbud County Project Honor Award Application are recipients of the Clover-

bud Project Honor Award.

This year’s Cloverbud winners are: Polo: Bethany Akins, Marley Linboom Oregon: Jayden Berry, Justin Collins, Aiden Currier, Eli Lotz, Philip Winters, Dylan McDowell, Katlyn Miller Leaf River: Emilee Bocker, Lily Sasscer, Addison Yordy Stillman Valley: Kate Costello Rochelle: Yessenia Garcia, Katheryn Groves, Annaliese Koziol, Joaquin Marin Byron: Colton Gehrke Mount Morris: Cian Grygiel, Jakob Moser, Noelle Rodriquez, Zakkary West, Mason Zabran Monroe Center: Jessie Hagemann, Audrey Payne, Sydney Tompkins Chana: Wyatt Hunderman Ashton: Jada Ramirez German Valley: Christian Ryia

Top 30 Award Winners A percentage of 4-H’ers were selected from among the silver and gold County Project Honor winners, in each of three age groups, to receive the Top 30 Award. This award is given to 4-H’ers for thoroughness of records; comprehensiveness of project coverage; appropriateness of goals set; learning documented; overall size and scope of 4-H experience; educational experiences, community service efforts, and leadership efforts in project areas; involvement in club and beyond; and record book organization and appearance enhancements.

Winners are: Katelyn Ackland, Megan Ackland, Tommy Allen, Brenna Berns, Casey Besse, Tyler Besse, Kade Boatman, Kendall Boatman, Lauren Carlson, Natalie Carlson, Alexandria Cassens, Jackson Craig, Julie Davis, Levi Eden, Jackson Glendenning, Jared Glendenning, Anna Hagemann, Danielle Hagemann, Megan Hagemann, R.G. Hough V, Rebecca Hough, Faith Marquardt, Allissa Martin, Bode Martin, Grace Mongan, Johnathan Prose, Kyra Rimstidt, Abbie Ring, Braden Rogers, Megan Seebach

LEE COUNTY FARM BUREAU

Illinois Farm Bureau President Richard Guebert Jr. (left) presents Lee County Farm Bureau President Don Meyer a recognition plaque for the bureau’s 2016 achievements during the 102nd annual meeting of the Illinois Farm Bureau in December in Chicago. Awards included Gold, Membership Quota; Silver, Legislative, Political Process, Communication and Promotion, Ag Literacy, and CFB Foundation; and Bronze, Health and Safety, Local Affairs, Member Relations, Policy Development, and Young Leaders. Photo submitted by Lee County Farm Bureau.

Employees raise money for Christmas DIXON – Staff at Plews Inc., doing business as Plews & Edelmann, recently raised more than $7,700 by raffling off gift baskets of donated items and having a bake sale.

Every year, the company receives a list of clients with needs from Lutheran Social Services of Illinois.

The proceeds were used to shop for 30 Lutheran

Social Services of Illinois clients, to provide Christmas gifts and other needed items.

The company also donated $500 each to PADS Homeless Shelter and Granny Rose Animal Shelter, and $366 to Kreider Center, all in Dixon.

Debbie Nice, a buyer for Plews, was the 2016 project chairman.

4-H youth workshops planned in Morrison MORRISON – The University of Illinois Extension will offer 4-H Magnificent Monday workshops.

The program, open to youth 8 to 18, will run from 8:45 a.m. to noon Jan. 16 at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 601 N. Jackson St. A special 5- to 7-yearold session also is planned for Cloverbudaged youth.

Four sessions will

rotate every 40 minutes; with a snack offered.

Session areas include, but are not limited to, robotics, art, baking, nuclear fission, crocheting, and drones.

The cost is $10 per child. Some project areas are an extra $5 for supplies.

Space is limited, visit go.illinois.edu/MagMonday or for more information, call the office at 815-632-3611.

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Saturday, December 31, 2016

Retailers working to make it easier to return items HASSLE

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The problem is worse over the holidays, when shoppers buy more gifts, apparently with mixed success. Overall merchandise return rates rise about 2 percent in November and December.

United Parcel Service sees a bump in shipping volumes throughout the month of January as customers return unwanted gifts, order items in exchange and spend gift cards, said spokesman Matthew O’Connor. But the first week of January is UPS’ busiest period for e-commerce returns, tracked using the preprinted shipping labels some retailers provide to make returns easier for customers.

The early-January flurry of activity is good news for shipping companies like UPS, which expects to ship about 5.8 million returns during the first week in January 2017, up from about 5 million the year before, O’Connor

said. It’s not such great news for the customers making extra trips to ship return packages, or retailers that have to figure out what to do with extra merchandise that comes back.

Most returns that were purchased online get returned to brick-andmortar stores, as long as the retailer has a physical store that is convenient for the customer.

Unless the returned item is unusually bulky or something not typically stocked in the store, that’s often the best outcome for the retailer, which can put the item back on a shelf and try to sell the customer something else.

A UPS survey found 70 percent of online shoppers made an extra purchase when returning an item to a brick-andmortar store, according to O’Connor. Only about 45 percent made an additional purchase when processing a return online and then shipping it back.

Nearly 70 percent of retailers surveyed by the

National Retail Federation at the end of 2015 let customers return gifts purchased online to their stores, up from 57 percent earlier that year.

Many retailers – especially those that sell only online – are working to make it easier for customers to ship returns back.

California-based startup Happy Returns, for example, opened return stations at two Chicago-area malls where customers of five online merchants can drop off returns and get an immediate credit.

Other retailers provide customers preprinted address labels or cover the cost of mailing the item back.

Even though those efforts can cut into profits, Zubel said he hasn’t seen retailers tightening return policies as online shopping has grown.

Retailers weigh the cost of making returns as painless as possible against potential lost sales if customers are nervous about buying items they aren’t positive they’ll keep.

“The return policy

becomes a competitive advantage,” he said.

Some retailers are outsourcing returns to companies that specialize in taking back merchandise and squeezing as much value from them as possible, Zubel said.

Last year, FedEx acquired Genco, a logistics company that processes returns. UPS recently invested in Optoro, a software company that helps retailers and manufacturers handle returned and excess inventory.

“It’s a high-tech solution for how to connect items

to the next best home,” said Optoro co-founder and CEO Tobin Moore, whose company takes a cut of any money it helps retailers recover.

Depending on the item’s condition, it might go back to the retailer to be sold again, returned to the vendor for a credit, sold to a liquidator or on a secondary market like eBay, recycled or donated, Moore said.

For every consumer irritated that an ill-chosen holiday gift comes with a bonus trip to the post office, others, like Jackie Fegan, of Chicago, try to

put it in perspective.

There was no line at a nearby UPS Store Tuesday morning when she arrived to send a smart watch she’d given her son for Christmas back to Amazon. A friend talked him into using the money to fund a college spring break trip, she said.

Had she bought it at a local store, the return still would have required a trip. The day before, she’d spent 20 minutes in line at Target amid shoppers looking for post-Christmas deals.

“This is so much easier,” Fegan said.

Astrograph ASTROGRAPH by Eugenia Last Sunday, January 1, 2017 CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Don’t let the words or actions of others confuse you. Stick to your principles and plan. Keep your life simple and focused on achieving personal success. Don’t fold under pressure.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) -Something good is within reach.

An unexpected offering or proposal will get you thinking about new possibilities. A change will do you good. Start a new diet and exercise regimen.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) -- An idea you have could change your life, but before you jump in you should consider the downside and the cost involved. The response you get from friends will be telling.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- It’s time to work hard for positive change. A productive plan that will send you in a favorable direction personally and professionally will set the stage for a bright future.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- Plan your strategy for the upcoming year.

Preparation will help you reach your goals quickly. Your intelligence, keen perception and imaginative mind will lead to prosperity.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- Consider what is and isn’t possible.

Weed out any ideas that are likely to slow you down or cause you to miss your goal. Stay focused, and set your course.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) -Don’t let your emotions lead you astray. Don’t overspend or make a donation that you cannot afford just because someone makes you feel guilty. Look out for your best interests.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Put time aside for the ones you love. Share your thoughts and plans, and make any adjustments necessary. Romance is favored and will improve your No. 1 relationship.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- How you move forward at home or the ways in which you ensure having some leftover cash for things you enjoy will lead to positive progress.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -- Return to basics and strategize about how you are going to handle a financial or physical deficit due to past indulgence or extravagance. Romance will help improve your life.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -- If you limit your expenditures and live modestly, you will put together a solid plan that will ensure your personal and professional success. It’s a new year and a new beginning.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- Stick to your word, and refuse to get into a debate with friends or relatives about a decision you’ve made. It’s your life, your happiness and your future.

See Today’s Classified Section for Crossword Answers

Philip Marruffo/pmarruffo@saukvalley.com

End of the Road Antiques is a quaint store, but despite its size, it is filled with all sorts of odds and ends, from old wooden cabinets to farmhouse milk jugs.

Shop has old farmhouse vibe ANTIQUES

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End of the Road Antiques is a quaint store, but despite its size, it’s filled with all sorts of odds and ends, from old, wooden cabinets to farmhouse milk jugs.

It definitely gives off that old farmhouse vibe.

“We get a lot of people in our shop that say, ‘Wow, he’s got this displayed so nicely,’” Welp said. “Every once in a while, there’s someone that says there’s too much stuff in here, that it’s overwhelming. But, in general, people love to

walk around and spend time in here looking.

There are people that love to dig down and open the cupboards up and find something in there that might be hidden. There’s something to that.”

Welp said he travels all over the country to find antiques to sell in his shop and is very dedicated to making sure he picks things that his customers will enjoy.

“I have some very regular customers, many from Sterling, Rock Falls, the Oregon area, Iowa, Indiana, Wisconsin,” he said.”They come back because this is their kind of stuff.”

The ongoing search of finding the gems to put in his store keeps Welp on his toes.

“There’s a challenge to finding stuff and buying it with the understanding that somebody else has to purchase it from you,” he said.

Gift items, such as candles and signs, are also available at the store, and Welp said prices in his shop range anywhere from $1 to $4,000.

“I’ve just always liked the history of old stuff and what it did,” Welp said. “It’s fun unearthing interesting treasures. ...

There’s something here for everyone.”

Trash truck, not family finances RAMSEY

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Don’t keep on truckin’ Dear Dave, My husband has two trucks, one of which is a work truck at his construction site. It’s in really bad shape, and he wants to take $16,000 out of savings to buy another one. We have only $17,000 in the account.

What should we do?

– Caroline

Dear Caroline, Your husband wants to drain your savings to buy a $16,000 vehicle and roll it up to a construction site? I think this guy has been watching too many macho-man truck commercials.

In the real world, some hard hat will run into it with a piece of heavy equipment or drop a load of bricks off center and put some big-time damage on this truck before he puts 1,000 miles on it.

He wants to buy way too much truck. This kind of

decision will wreck your finances and spell bad news for the business, too.

You can buy a perfectly good work truck for $6,000 or $7,000, and that’s what he needs to do. This truck is going to get destroyed, and trashing an inexpensive truck is a much better idea than trashing the family finances!

– Dave Follow Dave on Twitter (@DaveRamsey), or go to daveramsey.com.

Saturday, December 31, 2016

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SV Weekend • C9

AG CLASS KEEPS BUSY

West Carroll High School ag students Logan Barker (from left), Alec Tipton, Kobe Lindsay, Cash Lower, Ryan Miller, Rylie Getz, Keara Hayden, Leland Houzenga, and Matt Haring built wooden duck houses to be donated. A member of Water Fowl USA (back row, left), will distribute them to area landowners. Photos submitted by Josi Anderson.

FFA members and Ag IV class members stand with $500 worth of toys they purchased from Shopko. The items will be donated to Toys For Tots.

AMBOY HIGH SCHOOL FFA MEMBERS

Amboy High School FFA teams competed Nov. 16 at the Section 2 FFA Agronomy and Dairy Foods Career Development Events at Rochelle Township High School. Members are (front row, from left) Joel Brown, Hannah Grady, Margaret Vaessen, Nastasja Vaessen, Bailey Bickett, Sarahjo Hindriks, Alyssa Gascoigne, Bailee Highbarger, and Addison Wetzel; and (back row) Logan Lindahl, Riley Crownhart, and Maverick Lindenmeyer.

Both teams placed fifth in their respective contests. Photos submitted by Grady.

Hannah Grady attended the June 27-July 2 Washington, D.C., Leadership Conference. Participants took tours and were instructed on how to identify and come up with a plan for needs in their communities. Grady was able to attend the conference after receiving an Amboy FFA Alumni Scholarship.

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Saturday, December 31, 2016

A whirlwind of a New Mexico adventure Gretch Sanders, Carol Baumgardt and Don Baumgardt walk along a sand dune at White Sands National Monument in New Mexico.

Revive your soul as you ramble through breathtaking state

BY PAM LEBLANC Tribune News Service

W

hen the rambling man inside your head threatens to grab the wheel, go ahead and succumb.

A good old-fashioned road trip – one fueled by roadside diners, stops at oddball attractions and frequent forays into nature – does the soul good. At least that’s what I found when I flew to El Paso, Texas, and joined GeoBetty Tours for a 5-day spin through southeastern New Mexico.

We swept across drifting sands, climbed mountains, chilled alongside the Rio Grande and rambled through the desert, uncovering quirkiness and charm all along the way. Here’s how our trip unfolded.

At White Sands National Monument, a glistening, lunar eclipse of a park just outside Alamogordo, Don Baumgardt, owner of GeoBetty Tours, whips a pair of saucer-shaped sleds out of his trunk. We drag them up what looks like a hill of sugar and slide down, whooping and hollering all the way. We also make sand angels, hike across a series of sand ridges and follow a beetle trekking through the desolate terrain. The park offers a variety of activities, from full-moon bike rides to sunrise photography tours and sunset strolls. Stop by the visitor center to watch an orientation movie, and if you forgot your sled, get one there.

All that sliding makes us hungry, so we slow roll into nearby Tularosa, where we sample an array of pistachios and pistachio products at Heart of the Desert Pistachios. (Anybody remember when pistachios were always dyed red? No more.) I like the plain ones best, but more adventurous nut munchers might like

the green chili garlic or green chili onion varieties. Be sure to wander onto the patio for an upclose look at a grove of pistachio trees.

We grab a quick dinner, then continue on our way to Ruidoso, where we check in at the famous Inn of the Mountain Gods, a resort built by the Mescalero Apaches. Attractions here include golfing, gaming (we skipped the casino, but if you’re into that sort of thing, this one covers 45,000 square feet and is packed with machines, poker tables and roulette wheels), restaurants and live entertainment.

Our rooms overlook a small lake surrounded by pine trees. The next morning, I get up early, lace up my trail runners and head out to explore.

The place is huge; I walk past a zip line over the lake, bike rentals and the golf course, all tucked in the trees.

We pile back into the car and on a whim head south of town to check out the HurdLa Rinconada Gallery (wyethartists.com) that features art by Michael Hurd, Peter Hurd, Henriette Wyeth Hurd, Andrew Wyeth and N.C. Wyeth. You might recognize N.C. Wyeth’s imagination-inspiring illustrations from books like “Treasure Island,” “Robin Hood” and “Robinson Crusoe,” and his son Andrew Wyeth’s vaguely disturbing painting “Christina’s World,” portraying a woman lying in a field in front of a farm house.

We meet Michael Hurd, who’s still painting, and he takes a few minutes to show us around before he heads out to paint.

“To me a painting or a drawing is an emotional time exposure,” he tells us.

Take the time to explore the outbuildings on the property, including the

A carved bear greets visitors to Grizzly’s Workshop in downtown Ruidoso, New Mexico. lovely Las Milpas compound, which is available for rental.

Back in the car, we head to Ruidoso, stroll the main street, admire the chainsaw carvings at Grizzly’s Workshop, poke our nose in shops and grab sandwiches before driving toward Ski Apache. We park our car just outside the gates and strike out on the Crest Trail through the Lincoln National Forest. The forest swallows us instantly, and we’re surrounded by groves of golden aspens and towering pines looking across a valley toward the ski area.

The next day, we check out of the hotel early and hit the road again. First stop? Capitan, home of the Smokey Bear Historical Park, where we learn all about the little cub found singed and clinging to a tree during a forest fire here in 1950.

That bear became the living message of a national campaign to prevent forest fires, a message that remains important today, says park manager Bennie Long, chief of the Lincoln Fire Department and one of the first female firefighters in the area.

We stroll through a small garden, snap pictures with a Smokey Bear statue and pick up a few Smokey Bear trinkets at a small museum and gift shop in a log cabin next door.

Then we ramble on to Valley of Fires Recreation Area near Carrizozo, where we bound out of the car and stretch our legs on a 3⁄4-mile loop trail that takes us past lava caves and collapsed gas bubbles along the buckling ripples of an ancient lava flow.

Wheels rolling once more, we book it to San Antonio, a tiny town that prides itself as the birthplace of that pinnacle of New Mexico culinary artistry, the green chili cheeseburger.

Baumgardt and his wife, Carol, nab one burger from the Buckhorn Tavern and another from the Owl Cafe. We cut them in quarters and dig in, determined to pick the best one. In a split decision, the Owl’s burger – a smaller but much spicier version – wins. We mosey into the neon-lit restaurant and order another round.

Thus fortified, we forge on, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in our sights. In the cold months, the refuge flutters with migrating birds including sandhill cranes, eagles and snowgeese.

We’re lucky; the sandhill cranes are trickling in now. The 4-foot gray creatures, which have red foreheads and white cheeks, fly more than 3,000 miles from Alaska to winter here each year and attract pho-

tographers who perch on decks to snap their picture. The refuge itself, which covers more than 57,000 acres, features more than 100 individual wetlands that are periodically flooded to provide habitat for the inhabitants.

“It’s a great place to watch the cycle of nature take place,” says Chris Lesser, visitor services chief. “Each time you come back to the refuge it’s going to look different.”

From there, it’s on to Truth or Consequences, a funky little town that famously traded its original name of Hot Springs for the name of a game show in the 1950s. They should have kept the old name, because the springs are what make this a town worth stopping to explore.

We check into the Riverbend Hot Springs, which used to operate as a bait shop, then became a hostel, and since has evolved into a quirkily charming resort alongside the Rio Grande.

Quick as we can, we change into swimsuits and ease into the stonelined, spring-fed tubs, twiddling our toes in the piping hot water, watching the stars pop out and listening to the coyotes yap.

We take another dip in the tubs the following morning before piling back into the car for

Tribune News Service photos

the drive past fields of pecans, cotton and chili peppers on our way to Las Cruces. When we pass the exit signs for Hatch, I can’t help but think of the pepper roasters that appear in front of grocery stores in Austin in late summer.

We drop our bags at the Hotel Encanto (lovely lobby!) and continue on to the historic Mesilla section of town for a plate of enchiladas at La Posta, which is housed in the old Butterfield Stage Building. Then it’s on to the Chile Pepper Institute at New Mexico State University, where program specialist Adan Delval teaches us a thing or two about the state’s favorite crop.

We unwind back at the hotel, resting up for the grand finale the next day, a mountain bike tour of Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument.

In the morning, we climb onto mountain bikes from Crazy Cat Cyclery and speed down a portion of the beginner-friendly Sierra Vista Trail. It weaves through rolling acres of cactus in the dusky blue shadow of mountain. I spook a jackrabbit as I spin down the trail, and at the midway point we all dismount and flop onto the ground for an impromptu siesta.

“You can ride all year round here,” says Baumgardt, whose GeoBetty Tours leads hiking and biking tours all through the region. “There’s a lot of open space to ride without a lot of people riding it.”

Devon Balet, a Colorado-based photographer who has joined us for the ride, concurs.

“I was most surprised by the mountains and how rugged they are,” Balet says. “I was blown away by the terrain – it’s unexpected. The riding is way better than most people expect. I’m really enjoying the riding here – it’s technical and it’s challenging.”

Our souls revived, we wrap our trip with a stop at the Bowie Bakery in downtown, then head to the airport for the trip back to reality.

Saturday, December 31, 2016

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DIXON VFW MEN’S AUXILIARY

NEW SUPERVISOR

Dixon VFW Men’s Auxiliary members made donations to several area organizations at their Dec. 5 meeting. David Luddens (left), auxiliary senior vice president, and Ron Miller (right), auxiliary president, presents $1,000 to Rich Sanders, Rock River VietNow Chapter treasurer. Sanders also accepted $500 on behalf of Lee County Honor Flight. Photos submitted by Richard Longfellow.

Matt Baker of St. Charles, Missouri, has been named fitness supervisor at Sterling Park District. An Army veteran, Baker earned his exercise science degree from Lindenwood University. He can be reached at Westwood Fitness and Sports Center at 815-622-6201. Photo submitted by Kathleen Sciacero.

SANTA’S WORKSHOP HELPERS

Dixon Police Officer Alex Wakeley accepts $500 on behalf of the department’s Shop With a Cop program.

Twin Cities Sunrise Rotary members made a donation to Whiteside County Senior Center in Sterling in support of its Santa’s Workshop program. The workshop provides items for children to purchase gifts at a reduced price.

With the check are (from left) Dale Smith, Michael Clark, Doug Vandersee, and Dorothy Szewczyk. Photo submitted by Mary Martin.

IN BRIEF Gardening series to start in January

Sandy Shoemaker holds the $1,000 check presented to Dixon VFW Auxiliary.

Mike McCarty (center), Dixon American Legion senior vice commander, receives $500 for the American Legion Boys State program.

Lee Eastman, Dixon High School golf coach, accepts $500 from Luddens and Miller in support of the golf team.

FRANKLIN GROVE – Lee County Master Gardeners and Bruce Black, University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator, will offer a program at Franklin Grove library.

Gardening classes will start at 10:30 a.m. with “Vermicomposting” on Jan. 21 and “Propagation” on Feb. 4.

Call the library to register at 815-456-2823.

For more information, call the Lee County Extension office. Go to web.extension.illinois.edu/ clw/downloads/66148.pdf to view the flier.

Extension offices ■ Whiteside County, 12923 Lawrence Road, Sterling, 815-632-3611 ■ Carroll County, 807 D S. Clay St., Mount Carroll, 815-244-9444 ■ Lee County, 280 W. Wasson Road, Amboy, 815 857-3525 Go to web.extension. illinois.edu/clw or call an office for more information on any of the programs listed.

agement Webinar will be from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Feb. 28 at Whiteside Extension office.

The cost is $50 per person.

Visit web.extension. illinois.edu/registration/?

RegistrationID=15563 to register.

Invasive invaders highlight of course

STERLING – Diseases such as oak death, bur oak blight, and oak wilt, as well as insect to -1 a.m. Feb. 1 at Sterling invaders of Illinois trees, Public Library, 102 W. Third will discussed from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 10 St.; and 9:30 to 11 a.m.

Feb. 8 at Erie Public Library, at New Life Lutheran Church, 702 W. Lynn 802 Eighth Ave. Blvd.

Go to web.extension. illinois.edu/registration/?Regi Topics also include Extension offices strationID=15642 to register how invasive plants may affect human health. online. to offer testing A question and answer DIXON – Private Pestilunch session, where Three webinar cide Applicator test-only speakers will update sessions will be at 10 topics announced participants on previa.m. Jan. 18 at Loveland The Small Farm Webinar ous topics and open the Community House, 513 floor to questions, also Series at Home will be W. Second St., and Jan. is planned. from noon to 1 p.m. every 26 at Naaman Diehl AudiCall the Whiteside Thursday starting Jan. 19. torium, 811 S. Clay St., County Extension office This year’s program Mount Carroll. for more information. includes buying hay, To become certified, small-scale cut-flower participants must pass a Livestock, dairy closed-book, 50- question production, pruning fruit examination administered trees, and ABC’s of judging to begin strawberry plasticulture. by representatives of the Go to web.extension.

MOUNT CARROLL Illinois Department of Agriillinois.edu/registration/?

– The annual 4-H and culture. Once passed, a FFA Livestock and Dairy 3-year certification license registrationid=15522 to register.

Judging contests will will be issued by the IDA Other webinars are: be March 18 at Carupon receipt of a licensroll County Highway ing fee.

■ The Four Seasons Go to web.extension.

Horticulture Webinar Win- Garage, 10735 Mill illinois.edu/registration/? ter Series will be on Tues- Road.

RegistrationID=15402 to Registration for the days beginning Jan. 31 register. with “Seed Starting,” at all livestock participants will county extension offices. be from 8 to 8:45 a.m., This 12-session program with the contest at 9.

Plant workshops includes a wide array of 4-H’ers and FFA memat area libraries gardening and landscapbers will judge steers, ing topics. Other topics heifers, production heifInformation on the are “Houseplants,” Feb. ers, swine, sheep, and basics of plant propaga14 and “Moth Orchids,” have a questions class. tion for a garden, homeMarch 7.

The cost is $5 Dairy judging registrastead or farm will be per session and free to tion will be from 11:45 offered by Bruce Black, active Master Gardeners. a.m. to 12:15 p.m., with extension educator.

Registration is needed the contest at 12:30 Join Black from 10:30 one week before each p.m. a.m. to noon Jan. 18 at webinar. Go to web.extenContact Leanne Rahn Odell Public Library, 307 at lrahn@illinois.edu or S. Madison St., Morrison; sion.illinois.edu/registration call the Carroll County 9:30 to 11 a.m. Jan. 25 at /?RegistrationID=15505 or office for more informaRock Falls Public Library, call 815- 632-3611.

■ A Soil and Water Mantion.

1007 Seventh Ave.; 9:30

Community SV Weekend • C12

Find reprints of your favorite photos at saukvalley.smugmug.com

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, December 31, 2016

Photos by Michael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com

ABOVE: John Lindhorst, owner of Ukulele Station America in Oregon, leads a group of uke players in a strum-along of the Christmas song “Mele Kalikimaka” on Dec. 18 at Alfano’s Restaurant, 801 S. Fourth St., Oregon. The strum-a-longs are held the third Sunday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The public is invited to play, sing along or listen to the music while enjoying some Italian cuisine. TOP: Lindhorst frets a chord on the ukulele, a classic Hawaiian instrument, the name of which translates to “jumping flea.”

ABOVE: Wes Carr and his wife Cristal, both of Rochelle, play a uke during the strum-a-long. The groups that meet each month play a variety of songs, but stuck to Christmas-themed music for the Dec. 18 gathering.

TOP RIGHT: A ukulele player reads music and plays along with the group. Groups range in size, but the gathering usually attracts about 15 people, many of whom come from Rockford.

MIDDLE RIGHT: John Sorensen of Oregon plays along at the jamboree. Uke players aren’t the only ones invited to the strum-alongs. Anyone who enjoys the music is free to stop by and listen, and even sing along.

BELOW RIGHT: A ukulele sits on the table as the group decides what song to play next. Players choose from a book of 365 songs.

MORE INFORMATION: Go to ukulelestationamerica.com or call 815-994-1246.