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SPORTS, B1

MOVING THE MUD FROMSTERLING, THOMAS PARK A3

DIXON SCHOOLS | LONG-TERM FACILITIES PLANS

Fix or build options for DHS Each plan carries estimated cost of about $45 million

BY JERMAINE PIGEE jpigee@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5525 @JPigee84

DIXON – Renovate Dixon High School, or build new?

School officials and the Dixon community have wrestled with that question for the past few months.

The school board has narrowed the district’s long-range facility plan to two options.

Both options include basic renovation and upgrades at Washington and Jefferson elementary schools. Option A includes renovating DHS, and option B includes a new high

BrainSpaces, a Chicago-based consultant on school facilities planning. “The major difference between the two options is what to do with the high school.”

There is little difference in the estimated costs of the two options. The option that includes renovating the current high school is estimated to cost $42 million to $48 million. The option that includes building

Online extra The complete Dixon Public Schools Master Plan can be seen at saukvalley.com. school at an undetermined site.

“The two elementary schools would get minor renovations, similar to the renovations Madison Elementary School got recently,” said Amy Yurko of

a new high school has an estimated price tag of $44 million to $47 million.

The renovations at Washington and Jefferson schools are projected to cost between $6 million and $7 million. That would include new heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, lighting upgrades, and new drop ceilings.

OPTIONS CONTINUED ON A2

2015 ELECTION

WALKING WITH CHRIST IN THE TWIN CITIES

Next steps for Sauk?

Candidates weigh in Five seek three open seats on college board

BY JERMAINE PIGEE jpigee@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5525 @JPigee84

Photos by Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com

ABOVE: Immanuel Lutheran Church pastor Henrietta “Hank” Milner and Eli Attig, 9, begin to carry a cross from the church in Rock Falls to Sterling on Friday morning.

The walk is a representation of the last hours of Jesus before he died on the cross. Friday was Good Friday, and Sunday is Easter. RIGHT: About 20 people participated in Friday’s walk, which ended at First Congregational Church of Sterling, where refreshments were served. First Christian Church of Rock Falls also organized the walk.

DIXON – How can Sauk Valley Community College be improved? Each of the five candidates running for three open seats on the Board of Trustees has his own ideas.

One candidate believes buildings should be updated, while others believe the college needs to spend more time reaching out to prospective students.

Dwindling state funding is often mentioned as an obstacle to progress.

Trustees serve 6-year terms.

Three of the board’s seven elected seats are on the April 7 ballot. Board Vice Chairman Scott Stoller and incumbents Edward Andersen and Robert Thompson are seeking re-election.

Dennis Fulrath, who works at Donaldson Co. in Dixon, and Michael Ortiz, a Sauk graduate, are seeking to join the board.

SAUK CONTINUED ON A5

STATE BUDGET | MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

Local officials anxious about proposed funding cuts

BY CHRISTI WARREN cwarren@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5521 @SeaWarren

Of the 45 people in Lee County Jail on Friday, almost 20 percent were being treated for mental illnesses. In Whiteside County, 30 percent of the inmates were.

As the state continues to cut

funding for mental health services – closing down state-run mental health centers and slicing money for community health providers – local jails and prisons have become the holding cells for Illinois’ mentally ill.

With Gov. Bruce Rauner’s proposal to further reduce the amount of state money put

Sunny

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 31 40 Pages

Today: 59/38 For the forecast, see Page A10

toward behavioral health services, the number of people housed in jails with mental illnesses will continue to swell, authorities say.

Rauner’s budget plan, if approved, would cut more than $98 million in state funding from the Division of Mental Health in the Depart-

Business

Dairy farming struggles to keep up with the demand for organic milk.

See Page C1

ment of Human Services.

With more than $1 million of those dollars filling out Sinnissippi Centers’ budget, the cuts would mean dire consequences for the Sauk Valley’s largest provider of mental health and addiction services.

Inside

Dixon City Council candidates discuss the role of city government. Page A5

CUTS CONTINUED ON A3

Community The YMCA’s Rock ’n’ Stroll event at Sterling’s Northland Mall utilized art and music to raise money for a student trip to the Art Institute.

See Page C12

Online

Go to saukvalley.com and click on Election Central 2015 for information about races and candidates on Tuesday’s ballots.

Index Births................ C6

Lottery .............. A2

Business........... C1

Nation/World .... A9

Classified .......... D1

Obituaries ......... A4

Comics ............. B6

Opinion............. A6

Community ..... C12

Scoreboard .... B10

Crossword Saturday ........... D6

Scrapbook ....... C3

Crossword Sunday ............. C8

Support groups .. C6

Dave Ramsey ... C1

Weather.......... A10

Dear Abby ........ C4

Wheels ............. D8

Sports .............. B1 Travel .............. C10

A2 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, April 4, 2015

COMMUNITY WATCH Were we in

ERROR? Getting it right We care about accuracy, and we want to correct errors promptly. Please call mistakes to our attention at 815-284-2222 or 815-6253600, ext. 5501 or 5502.

Corrections There are none today.

POLICE Sterling Police

A drawing of what a new Dixon High School would look like is included in a Dixon Public Schools Master Plan. If a new high school were to be built, a site has not yet been determined.

Land deal to include all schools?

OPTIONS

CONTINUED FROM A1

If the high school is renovated, officials said, it will be like having a new school at the same site.

“The inside of the high school would be gutted, and we’d just start again,” Superintendent Michael Juenger said. “The high school would be brought up to today’s standards, and the outside of the building would take on a new look.”

The high school was built in the 1920s, and the school’s water lines are more than 80 years old.

A new look would include a renovated gym and support spaces, and

updated classrooms, cafeteria and locker rooms. Parking would be expanded.

The objective would be to make the school available to students for the next 80 years. “ We would enlarge some classrooms, update the science labs, and we would create more of a 21st century learning environment,” Yurko said.

Re n ova t i o n o f t h e high school would cost between $36 million and $41 million.

The estimated cost of a new high school is $38 million to $40 million.

But land would need to be purchased for a new school. Though no site has been determined,

projections are it would cost $16,000 to $25,000 an acre.

About 50 acres would be needed for a new high school. But officials would also have to determine whether land should be bought to accommodate all district schools. That would require about 180 acres.

If a new high school were built, and the current high school was not repurposed, the district could sell the building or demolish it.

Te m p o r a r y a c c o m modations for 950 high school students would also have to be made during a renovation of the current building.

Having 20 classrooms in 10 modular buildings

would cost the district about $560,000 for 12 months.

Officials also could use the former Lincoln Elementary School as a temporary high school.

Juenger said money would come from a mixture of sales tax revenue and a bond issue that would have to be approved by the public. If a referendum were approved, it would generate about $35 million for the project, he said.

Yurko said work groups made up of students, staff and community members will take a closer look at the options.

Yurko also said another community forum will take place in the coming weeks.

DIXON

Meeting to offer tips on cutting utility bills STAFF REPORT news@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5501

DIXON – The state’s Citizens Utility Board will have a free presentation Tuesday to help electric, natural gas, and telephone customers cut their costs.

The hourlong presentation, cohosted by the Lee County Council on Aging, will begin at 1 p.m. at the agency, 100 W. Second St. In a news release, CUB said its experts would provide information on:

• How to spot unnecessary charges on electric, natural gas, and phone bills • Energy efficiency programs and rebates that can help people cut their utility bills • Utility rates, and making the right choices in the electric and gas markets • Dixon’s municipal aggregation rate of 5.8472 cents per kilowatthour (kWh) through July 2015 with Verde Energy and how it compares to ComEd’s standard rate • CUB Energy Saver, www.

CUBEnergySaver.com, a free online tool that recommends actions consumers can take to cut electric bills CUB promotes itself as the state’s “leading nonprofit utility watchdog.” Created by the Illinois Legislature, CUB started in 1984 to represent the interests of residential and small-business utility customers.

For more information, call CUB’s Consumer Hotline, 1-800-6695556, or visit its website, www.CitizensUtilityBoard.org.

LOTTERY NUMBERS Pick Three-Midday: 3-3-5 Fireball: 4 Pick Three-Evening: 5-2-3 Fireball: 3 Pick Four-Midday: 3-4-7-5 Fireball: 0

Pick Four-Evening: 4-3-3-9 Fireball: 0 Lucky Day Lotto – Midday: 1-3-17-30-38 Lucky Day Lotto – Evening: 6-15-21-30-36

ELECT

David Miller Alderman Sterling Ward 2

Estimated Lotto jackpot: $5 million Estimated Mega Millions jackpot: $25 million Estimated Powerball jackpot: $60 million

MEGA MILLIONS

John E. Walker, 25, of Sterling; 10:37 a.m.

Thursday at Sterling Police Department; Kalamazoo (Michigan) Police Department warrant for failing to comply with registration duties as a registered sex offender; taken to Whiteside County Jail.

Keithen J. Martin, 33, of Leaf River; 5:36 p.m. Thursday in the 4100 block of East Lincolnway; retail theft greater than $300; taken to Whiteside County Jail.

Morrison Police Nathan D. Schrock, 20, of Harmon; 2:15 p.m.

March 27; Whiteside County warrant for failure to appear on a charge of driving under the influence; taken to Whiteside County Jail.

Jack W. Ryan, 46, of Clinton, Iowa; 8:45 p.m. March 28 on East Lincolnway near Bishop Road; improper lane usage, driving under the influence of alcohol; taken to Whiteside County Jail.

Lee County Sheriff Eric J. Kithcart, 35, of Sterling; 10:38 a.m. Friday; warrant for contempt; post-

for Dixon Public Schools Board of Education Paid for and sponsored by the Dixon Education Association

Maria Chavez, 44, of Rochelle; Thursday in the 1000 block of South Dement Road in Rochelle; driving on a suspended license.

BIRTHDAYS Happy birthday to Erma Mae Burgess, John DeWaele, Rita Robers, Al Swegle, Gloria Grant, Jerry Ickes, and Linda Flock, 40, all on Saturday.

Happy birthday to Andrew Thayer, 21, Larry Stone, Megan Kerr, William Richmond, Lisa Heal, and Ian Deets, 21, all on Sunday.

Seymour-Memreez Home Movies/Film/Audio/Slides To Digital-DVD-CD In Northland Mall/Sterling Il Relive It In Digital 815-716-8903 seymour-memreez.com

T R I V I A

Q U E S TI ON ?

1) Who was the first writer to use the word “robot”?

2) What was the name of the first robot to appear in a film?

Answer located in today’s classified section

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ed bond and given notice to appear in court.

Floyd Montgomery, 58, of Maryville, Indiana; 2:09 a.m. Friday; driving under the influence; posted bond and given notice to appear in court.

John B. Roberts, 37, of Franklin Grove; 9:41 p.m.

Thursday; no valid driver’s license, no insurance; posted bond.

Girl, 12, of Rock Falls; 7:45 p.m. Thursday; criminal damage to state-supported property; released to her parent.

Vickie T. Tilley, 59, of Amboy; 7:23 p.m. Thursday; theft less than $500; posted bond and given notice to appear in court.

Troy V. Johnson, 47, of Sterling; 1:36 p.m. Thursday; warrant for contempt – failure to appear; held at Lee County Jail and given notice to appear in court.

Timothy R. Crager, 29, of Round Lake Park; 10:20 a.m. Thursday; driving while license suspended; posted bond and given notice to appear in court.

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SV Weekend • A3

STERLING | THOMAS PARK

Dredging work to begin soon at Thomas Park Steel mill’s brownfield site to get cover

BY PAM EGGEMEIER peggemeier@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5570 @pam_eggemeier

STERLING – Temperatures are rising, and dredging should soon begin at the pond in Thomas Park.

In early January, the city amended its Mud to Parks grant to include the park district’s dredging project. The funds come from

the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

In September 2013, Sterling learned it would receive $900,000 from the state’s Mud to Parks grant program to help move 60,000 cubic yards of dredged material that will cover the brownfield site at the former Northwestern Steel & Wire Co. All of the silt was to be brought in from Lake County, but the city discovered the cost would be much more than had been expected.

“The initial estimates we received on transporting the material were very

understated,” City Manager Scott Shumard said.

“Bringing Thomas Park into the grant will save money for the park district and the city.”

Silt deposits and drought have lowered the pond’s water level and elevated its algae presence. The grant provides the park district with $150,000 for pond restoration – the bulk of the cost.

“That reimburses us for the dredging work, and we’ll pay the rest just to install a fountain and pretty it up a bit,” Parks Director Larry Schuldt

said. “That should only cost us about $25,000.”

The city also has a vested interest in the pond because it is used for stormwater retention.

The grant agreement calls for the city to take in a minimum of 30,000 cubic yards of clean fill to the site. Now about 7,000 cubic yards of the material will be taken in from the Thomas Park dredging, and an additional 12,000 will be transported from construction work done at Meadlowlands Business Park.

Schuldt said bids for the pond dredging are due

April 16, and will be presented to the board for approval at its April 20 meeting. Sediment samples from the pond have been looked at and OK’d by the state Environmental Protection Agency.

Now that the park district is part of the project, the timeline was amended from March 1, 2015, to Jan. 1, 2016. The park district’s deadline, however, will come much sooner.

“We anticipate that digging will begin pretty quick because our completion date is May 29,” Schuldt said.

The material will be

stored in the back part of the park, where it must be dried for a couple of months before it can be taken to the riverfront.

The city also received a $1.3 million Green Infrastructure Grant from the EPA to help with its $2.18 million eco-tourism riverfront project.

Plans for that project include a wetland and pond complex to improve water quality, 9 acres of natural landscape restoration, 3,000 square feet of publicly accessible green roofs, and more than 4,500 square feet of grass.

With fewer treatment options, local jails will be burdened CUTS

CONTINUED FROM A1

Patrick Phelan, president and CEO of Sinnissippi Centers, estimates that would mean cutting services for about 4,000 adults and children who get medication prescriptions through Sinnissippi every year, and that an additional 600 patients would have to go without counseling for substance abuse and mental health issues.

“On the one hand, this budget proposes to virtually destroy the existing infrastructure, while on the other it vows to expand treatment options for individuals struggling with re-entry from correctional systems,” Phelan said.

“The irony here is that by dismantling the community behavioral health systems, our jails and prisons will become the default service provider for many seriously ill individuals.

“This is a very expensive and ineffective plan to provide treatment to those in need.”

Larry Prindaville, chief administrative officer at Sinnissippi Centers, has worked there for 44 years.

“There have been hundreds of millions of dollars cut from mental health and substance abuse treatment support in the state of Illinois in the last 10 to 15 years,” he said. “Therefore, this is especially harmful because it goes directly to the core – limiting even the most essential services, which are pretty much all that’s funded at this point in time.”

From 2009 to 2012, states cut $1.6 billion for mental health services, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Illinois alone cut $187 million – nearly a third of its funding for mental health services.

Those cuts led to the closure of two of the already small number of staterun mental health centers in Illinois: Tinley Park and Singer.

Those closures limited the options for the state’s poor and mentally ill who couldn’t afford treatment or didn’t have access to it, and with funding being cut from the remaining community mental health centers, the options for people suffering from mental illnesses dwindle.

Many patients resort to self-medicating with alcohol or by purchasing illegal drugs, experts say.

“We know that a lot of people who need outpatient services are in hospitals and-or jail because of a lack of services,” Prindaville said. “And our hospitals and our jails are going to be serving an ever increasing number of those folks.”

When community members can’t afford the services at Sinnissippi, sometimes they turn to local health clinics. The Whiteside County Health Clinic recently was awarded a grant to expand its behavioral health department. Beth Fiorini, public

Information graphic by Angel Sierra/asierra@saukvalley.com

health administrator for the county, said that with the likelihood of services being limited through Sinnissippi, it’s good timing.

“We have increased our capacity quite a bit, so, hopefully, we’ll be able to take in some of the patients,” Fiorini said. “But the other problem is that ... we have therapy sessions, but some people need something more intensive than what we can do.

I think that’s the real crisis here. We can do the, ‘See you every 2 weeks; let’s talk about this.’ But we can’t do the intensive treatment, so there would be patients that are outside of our scope.

“Behavioral health is one of the highest needs in the area, and reducing that money is not good at all.”

And it’s not just funding for treatment that would be lost. The health department, which receives state public health funding, could lose what Fiorini says is one of its most vital services: Preventive treatment options for disadvantaged families.

In the county’s family case management program, social workers and nurses work in the home with women with young children to provide a support system that ensures the mothers and children are receiving proper

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nutrition, that they’re getting immunizations, and more.

“If you reduce the treatment programs like Sinnissippi, and you reduce the preventative programs like family health management, it’s a double-edged sword,” Fiorini said.

According to a 2006 report by the Bureau of

Justice Statistics, from 1998 to 2005, the number of people with mental illnesses being held in prisons and jails jumped from 283,800 to 1.26 million nationwide.

Whiteside County Sheriff Kelly Wilhelmi and Lee County Sheriff John Simonton see that effect firsthand.

“Actually what’s amazing is, instead of cutting, they need to take that amount and multiply it times 10, then add that to the [mental health budget],” Wilhelmi said.

“The problem that we have, and this is the issue: Everyone seems to blame the instrument. Anytime someone is shot with a gun, it’s all mental health issues that cause all of these problems.”

Wilhelmi said that the jail now houses a man with severe mental health issues who needs to be in a more clinical-type setting, but getting him there will take 6 to 8 months.

“The federal and state government has failed all of us,” Wilhelmi said.

“I would love to see them open more institutions and get more help for everybody, and with the economy, that even compounds the mental health issues. It all trickles down, and we’re the bottom line here.”

In Lee County, Sheriff Simonton was recently told that one inmate who is waiting for a bed at Elgin, one of the few re m a i n i n g s t a t e - r u n mental health institutions, won’t likely receive one until August.

Until then, his name will languish on a waiting list, and the man will remain in county jail.

“The correctional officers are doing the best they can,” Simonton said.

“But we’re not a treatment facility. We’re not psychiatrists; we’re not psychologists; we’re certainly not a long-term treatment facility.

“If it’s already delayed this much with the current funding, you can imagine what it’s going to be like with the cut in funding.”

FOR MAYOR OF DIXON “I firmly believe that, with the right leadership, we are poised for incredible things. I would be honored to put my business skills and military leadership experience to work for you.

Let’s give Dixon a fresh start.”

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KUHN

• Ability to serve full time as mayor • Years of volunteer service to community • Military Leadership and Combat Experience • Successful local business owner and entrepreneur • Supported Dixon’s ballot initiative to change the form of government • Experience in professional corporate management and operations • Offers fresh leadership with no ties to Dixon’s political establishment

www.ElectArellano.com • www.facebook/ElectArellano Paid for by Citizens for Arellano, Beth McFalls, Treasurer

A4 • SV Weekend

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Saturday, April 4, 2015

OBITUARIES Jerry P. Ovall STERLING – Jerry Paul Ovall, 73, of Sterling, died Thursday, April 2, 2015, at his home.

Jerry was born Feb. 18, 1942, in Danville, the son of John P. and Margaret E. (Thrasher) Ovall. He married Mary (Gold) Mullennex. They later divorced. He married Peggy (Brown) Stricklin on Aug. 24, 1985, at St. John Lutheran Church in Sterling. He attended Danville Community College and Eastern University, and received his degrees from the American Institute of Insurance Licensing of Pennsylvania.

Jerry moved in July 1971 to Dixon as regional sales manager with Union Insurance Group of Bloomington. He was an active member of Dixon Jaycees and president of the chapter when it was named Number One Chapter in its population division in Illinois.

He also was honored as a JCI ( Jaycees International) Senator and a lifetime member of the Jaycees. Jerry purchased the H.A. Detweiler Insurance Agency in Sterling in 1974. He was a partner and part owner of Peterson-Detweiler and Co. in SterlingRock Falls, starting in 1977. The firm became

Peterson-Book-Quigg and Imboden. When the firm was sold, he did not retire, but became an active producer for Wickert Insurance in Rock Falls.

Throughout his insurance career, he earned the Charter Property Casualty Underwriter degree, Associate in Risk Management, and Associate in Underwriting.

Survivors include his wife, Peggy; three daughters, Elizabeth J. (Dale) Adams of Dixon, Deborah J. Ovall of Dania, Florida, and Amanda M. (Edward) Thomas of Dixon; one brother, James L. Ovall of Easton; and two grandchildren, Megan E. Adams and Andrea M. Thomas.

He was preceded in death by one brother, John Dennis, in infancy, and his parents.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m., with a Moose service at 6 p.m., Monday at Schilling Funeral Home in Sterling. The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home, with Brian Tribley, pastor of Firehouse of God Ministries in Sterling, officiating. Cremation rites have been accorded.

A memorial has been established.

Visit schillingfuneralhome.com to send condolences.

Edward J. ‘Jack’ Piper OHIO – Edward John “Jack” Piper, 77, of Ohio, died Wednesday, April 1, 2015, at Walnut Manor Nursing Home. He was a farmer and real estate developer.

Jack was born May 20, 1937, in Ohio, the son of Edward Harding and Vivian (Gibson) Piper. He married Janice Krapff on April 27, 1957, at Immaculate Conception Church in Ohio. She preceded him in death on March 31, 1992. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church.

Survivors include three sons, Bartley Piper of Ohio, Scott (Peggy) Piper of Orland Park, and Tim (Dawn) Piper of Macomb; three daughters, Cindy ( Jim) Schulte of Ohio, Jackie (Steve) Menk of Platte City, Missouri, and Sharon Piper of Princeton, Iowa; 14 grandchildren; three great-grand-

children: one brother, Tom (Maxine) Piper of Iowa; one sister, Jeri (Paul) Knuth of Wisconsin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He also was preceded in death by his parents, one granddaughter, and two sisters, Sally Donovan and Mary Meyer.

Jack donated his body to Educational Benefits at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. A simple service will be at 5 p.m.

Wednesday at Immaculate Conception Church, with the Rev. Thomas Shaw, pastor, officiating.

A time of sharing will be after the service in the church hall. Garland Funeral Home in Walnut is handling arrangements.

A memorial has been established.

Visit garlandfuneralhome.com to send condolences.

Michael O. Thompson BLANCHARD, Oklahoma – Michael O. Thompson, 66, of Blanchard, formerly of New Bedford, died Monday, March 23, 2015, at his home.

Private interment with the family will be at a later date.

FUNERAL SERVICES FOR THE WEEK Today’s visitations: Virginia Rose Hipple of Dixon, 9-11 a.m. at Jones Funeral Home in Dixon.

Karen M. Conway of Amboy, 10 a.m.-noon at Mihm-Jones Funeral Home in Amboy.

Virginia Finkle of Chadwick, gathering of family and friends, 11 a.m.-noon at Coleta United Methodist Church.

Constance M. “Connie” Gibson, formerly of Prophetstown, 2-4 p.m. at Bosma-Gibson Funeral Home in Prophetstown.

Today’s funerals: Virginia Rose Hipple of Dixon, 11 a.m. at Jones Funeral Home in Dixon.

Nancy L. Typer Peltz, formerly of Polo, 11 a.m. memorial service at Faith United Methodist Church in Polo, followed by a luncheon at the church.

Karen M. Conway of Amboy, noon at Mihm-Jones Funeral Home in Amboy.

Virginia Finkle of Chadwick, noon memorial service at Coleta United Methodist Church.

Mary E. Suneson of Oregon, 1 p.m. memorial service at Oregon United Methodist Church.

Monday visitations: Deloras J. Morgan of Rock Falls, 10-11 a.m. at McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls.

Raymond R. Wilson of Sterling, 1-2 p.m. at McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls.

Ruth L. Bush of Morrison, 4-7 p.m. at Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home in Morrison.

Jerry P. Ovall of Sterling, 4-8 p.m., with Moose service at 6 p.m., at Schilling Funeral Home in Sterling.

Monday funerals: Deloras J. Morgan of Rock Falls, 11 a.m. at McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls.

Constance M. “Connie” Gibson, formerly of Prophetstown, 1 p.m. graveside committal service at Riverside Cemetery in Prophetstown.

Raymond R. Wilson of Sterling, 2 p.m. celebration of life at McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls.

Tuesday funerals: Ruth L. Bush of Morrison, 10:30 a.m. at Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home in Morrison.

Jerry P. Ovall of Sterling, 11 a.m. at Schilling Funeral Home in Sterling.

Wednesday funerals: Edward J. “Jack” Piper of Ohio, 5 p.m. simple service at Immaculate Conception Church in Ohio, followed by time of sharing in church hall.

April 11 funerals: Thomas F. Adler of Sterling, 11 a.m. memorial service at Bethel Reformed Church in Sterling.

Obituary information

All obituaries, including death notices, are due by 2 p.m. Sunday through Dennis Bonnette Friday if sent via email, ROCK FALLS – Dennis Bonnette, 66, of Rock Falls, obituaries@saukvalley. died Thursday, April 2, 2015, at CGH Medical Center in com or fax, 815-625-9390.

Sterling.

Obituary corrections Chapel Hill Funeral Home in Dixon is handling and clarifications will arrangements. 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 800-798-4085, ext.

5530 or 5502.

SPRINGFIELD

New museum exhibit has Lincoln hearse medallions More than 40 items on display SPRINGFIELD (AP) – A new exhibit at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum features more than 40 rare Lincoln items, including two silver medallions from the sides of his Springfield hearse.

The State Journal-Register reports the exhibit called “A Fiendish Assassination” opened Thursday and will be open through early July.

The medallions were thought to have been destroyed along with the hearse in an 1887 fire in St. Louis. One was found in the collection of a library at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, while the other was in a private library in Dallas.

Tracking down the medallions is especially exciting with the 150th anniversary of Lincoln’s death coming up, said James Cornelius, curator of the Lincoln Collection at the museum.

“Until a few months ago,

only a handful of people in the entire world knew these historic medallions still existed,” Cornelius said. The medallions are engraved “In Memoriam A.L.” along with “Springfield” and “May 4 1865.”

The exhibit also has the only surviving photo of Lincoln in his coffin, and a part of a towel that’s stained by Lincoln’s blood. The name of the exhibit comes from an ondisplay handwritten resolution from an unknown town condemning Lincoln’s killing.

AP

A 35-star American flag that flew from Daniel Bower’s sandwich cart during the Springfield funeral of Abraham Lincoln is displayed at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum in Springfield, as students fill out work sheets during a visit.

KANKAKEE

Family of slain Illinois man fearful after killer’s escape KANKAKEE (AP) – Relatives of an Illinois man slain during a botched robbery said they fear for their safety after the killer’s escape from jail this week and the failure of authorities to catch up with him.

As the manhunt continued, Nelson Williams Sr. of Kankakee said he and his family are laying low and being watchful about who was knocking

on their door.

“As I go home every night, I figure he might ambush me like he did my son,” he told WLS-TV on Thursday.

In a courthouse outburst in February, 23-year-old Kamron T. Taylor shouted at the family minutes after hearing the verdict.

Williams recalled that Taylor shouted, “I’m going to get you (expletive).”

The sheriff’s office did not respond to an email Friday asking whether the victim’s family had been offered any protection.

Taylor was found guilty of shooting 21-year-old Nelson Williams Jr. in the head during a June 2013 robbery attempt on his front porch.

Taylor escaped before dawn Wednesday from the Jerome Combs Deten-

tion Center in the eastern Illinois city after beating a guard unconscious, stealing his uniform, and driving off in his SUV. The Kankakee County sheriff has warned the public that Taylor has a weapon and “will not hesitate to use it.”

Twenty-eight officers have fanned out across the county, searching dozens of residences with the help of dogs and

surveillance helicopters above.

Analysts from the Illinois State Police have been mapping out lists of Taylor’s relatives and associates, and examining his past phone conversations and jail visitation records to help lead investigators to probable locations where the fugitive might be hiding out.

Sheriff Timothy Bukowski said Thursday that

investigators are working on the assumption that someone is helping him evade capture.

“We have to believe ... someone is helping him, concealing him,” Bukowski said. “We will prosecute those people.”

Authorities have increased to $7,500 a reward for information on Taylor’s whereabouts, according to the sheriff’s website.

state universities.

Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner’s administration announced the appointment Friday. Biggert’s term on the Illinois Educational Labor Relations Board will run until 2020 if she’s confirmed by the Illinois Senate.

Biggert represented

Illinois’ 13th Congressional District from 1999 to 2013. She lost to Democrat Bill Foster in 2012 for a chance to represent the 11th Congressional District, which was created when new districts were drawn after the 2010 Census.

Rauner signs smart grid bill

The law extends a “smart grid” oversight program that would have ended in 2017 and required the utilities to apply for rate increases to pay for upgrades.

Commonwealth Edison and Ameren Illinois now will continue to receive formulaic rate hikes through

2019 to cover the cost of installing smart-grid technology.

IN BRIEF Biggert named to oversight board SPRINGFIELD – Former U.S. Rep. Judy Biggert has been appointed to a $94,000-a-year position on the state board that oversees collective bargaining involving public schools and

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SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner has signed into law a measure that grants 2 more years of rate hikes for two of the state’s electric utilities.

– The Associated Press

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www.saukvalley.com

SV Weekend • A5

2015 ELECTION | DIXON CITY COUNCIL

Role of city government? Candidates discuss Answers were part of video interviews

BY MATT MENCARINI mmencarini@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5529 @MattMencarini

DIXON – In less than a week, 11 candidates for City Council seats will be reduced to four future council members.

Those four people will join the city’s new mayor on the next council, which takes office in May, and bring with them their views about the role of city government.

In recent video interviews with Sauk Valley Media, candidates were asked questions about the use of remaining Rita Crundwell recovery money, working with other local governments, and economic development, among other issues.

During those interviews, candidates were asked for their opinion on the role of city government. Some said the focus should be on infrastructure. Some emphasized the work in economic development.

Commissioners Den-

The candidates Jesse Arjes Age: 35 Occupation: Dixon firefighter and paramedic Experience: Former West Brooklyn village trustee Christopher Bishop Age: 29 Occupation: Teacher at Reagan Elementary School Experience: 2014 Dixon School District superintendent search committee

Chuck Brainerd Age: 74 Occupation: Retired Experience: Former teacher and football coach Colleen Brechon Age: 65 Occupation: Owner of Travel Consultants Experience: Dixon City Council, Dixon Tourism Tamera Brooks Age: 57

More online Go to www.saukvalley.com and click on Election Central 2015 for links to video interviews and links to questionnaire responses from some of the candidates for Dixon City Council.

Bob Gibler declined a video interview. Mitch Tucker did not respond to the questionnaire. nis Considine, 70, and Colleen Brechon, 65, are seeking re-election to their council seats.

Considine’s answer focused on the city’s role to respond to residents.

“The role of city government is to guide the citizens’ needs and wants,” he said. “And to provide services for all the citizens in the community.”

Brechon answered simi-

larly, while pointing to the budget.

“To try to keep the city operating financially in the black,” she said, “to service the citizens of the community, and to be there when there’s things they need.”

Some challengers focused their answers on the role they see the council playing after the transition from the commission form of govern-

Occupation: Unemployed Experience: Worked at Red Cross Dennis Considine Age: 70 Occupation: Retired Experience: Dixon City Council, Chamber of Commerce Bob Gibler Age: 74 Occupation: Retired ment to the managerial form.

That transition will be complete when the council hires a city manager, which will likely be completed in 3 to 6 months after its members take office.

“It’s going to be an interesting role with the new change of government,” said Mike Venier, 55. “I think what we’re going to be mostly is visionaries. The group, I think, is going to have to develop some kind of a collective mission statement that we can then give to a city manager for him or her to take that vision and develop it and make it come to fruition.”

The council approved

Experience: Lee County Board member

Street Board

Ryan Marshall Age: 30 Occupation: Owner of The Stables Experience: Former Lee County Board member

Mike Venier Age: 55 Occupation: Partner at Venier Jewelry Experience: Dixon Main Street Board president

Mitch Tucker Age: 34 Occupation: Owner of the Dixon Paint Co. Experience: Dixon Main

Josie Whaley Age: 66 Occupation: Retired Experience: Dixon Plan Commission

the city’s first mission statement late last year.

It was one of the projects City Administrator David Nord has worked on since he was hired in November 2013.

The mission statement is: “The City of Dixon shall provide the highest quality of life for our citizens through ethical and cooperative professional leadership by dedicated, caring, and innovative public servants, creating a firm foundation for the community moving forward.”

Jesse Arjes, 35, said the council’s role is to guide the city manager in the direction the council wants the city to go.

“We have to come up

with a strategic, longterm plan and lead the manager into that plan and let him be basically the CEO of the city, making the decisions,” Arjes said. “But obviously, when it comes down to it, we are going to be the ones directing him in that direction.”

Some candidates, like Ryan Marshall, 30, said the council should provide oversight of the city manager and department heads.

Others, like Mitch Tucker, 34, and Josie Whaley, 66, said a main responsibility of the city government should be to provide services such as streets, water, and police and fire protection.

Working with employers important, candidates say SAUK

CONTINUED FROM A1

Stoller, 37, has been on the Sauk board for 6 years. He said he wants to help the school’s foundation to grow.

“A strong Sauk Foundation can offer more scholarship opportunities to students that may be unable to afford higher education,” he said. “Education is the economic machine necessary for the survival of our communities.”

Andersen, who has been a trustee for 27 years, said he would like the college to have more direct involvement with the community.

“There needs to be more interaction with prospective students and the secondary school system,” Andersen, 65, said. “We need to continue to address the perception that community colleges do not offer the same quality education as universities. We

Edward Andersen

Dennis Fulrath

Michael Ortiz

Scott Stoller

do that by ensuring the quality of our instruction and by making the public aware of our quality.”

Andersen also said Sauk has to communicate with local employers.

“We also need to scan what is going on in the country to adapt our course offerings to meet the broader needs of the economy,” he said.

Fulrath said he would like the college to go through a building renovation.

“The Sauk facilities are 42 years old,” said Fulrath, 68. “It’s been updated and maintained through the decades, but it has some drastic needs.

Perhaps the time has come for some more sig-

nificant updating of the facilities.”

Fulrath, like Andersen, said the college needs to have a greater presence in the community.

“To get students to enroll at the college, you have to be where they are at,” Fulrath said. “You have to spend more time in the community.”

Thompson, an attorney who has ser ved on the Sauk board for 17 years, including as chairman, said he would like to see more course offerings.

“We have to look at what the industry wants,” Thompson, 48, said.

“We have to create more course offerings to tailor industry needs.”

A lack of financial

celebrate the cinema master’s 100th birthday.

The (Crystal Lake) Northwest Herald reports the festival will show 10 Welles films in 7 weeks on Wednesdays through May 23. It kicks off the Orson Welles Centennial Festival in May.

Welles spent his formative years in Woodstock at the former Todd School for Boys. The filmmaker’s masterpiece, “Citizen Kane,” will be at 7 p.m. on his birthday, May 6, at the Woodstock Classic Cinemas Theater.

IN BRIEF Woodstock hosts Welles film fest WOODSTOCK (AP) – Still trying to solve the mystery of “Rosebud?” Get your fill of Orson Welles onscreen at Woodstock’s “Orson Welles Film Festival” to

re i m b u r s e ments from the state is a problem, Thompson said. “ W h e n Robert these rates of Thompson reimbursement go down, it costs our students,” he said.

“To address this, we look to our faculty and staff, who help us identify areas [where] we can trim costs. We look toward modest raises in tuition that are a fraction of the tuition raises at state and privately run universities.”

Ortiz, 25, said he wants to create more revenue streams for Sauk. He also would like to start a soccer program at the college.

“Soccer is a way to bring in revenue, and there are some good soccer players

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Applicants sought for fourth vacancy Because Paula Meyer resigned from the Sauk Valley Community College Board of Trustees in January, there is a fourth vacancy on the board.

She resigned in January after ballot petitions were completed. Her vacancy is in addition to the three expiring terms.

To fill the fourth vacancy, the board will appoint a new trustee from among volunteers who express interest.

That will be a 4-year term.

Applicants must write a letter to express their interest, background, and reason for seeking appointment to the board.

The board may conduct interviews with candidates to make their decision.

Send your letter to: SVCC Board of Trustees C/O President’s Office Sauk Valley Community College 173 IL Route 2 Dixon, IL 61021 For more information, contact Debra Dillow at 815835-6303. in Dixon,” he said.

Ortiz also wants students to have a bigger role at the college.

“I feel as a student body, they need their

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own form of government,” Ortiz said. “I think students should be more involved with the decision-making at the college.”

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RIDES TO THE POLLS “Citizens For Arellano” is offering free rides to both early voting and all day on Election Day, Tuesday, April 7, to any citizens who need assistance. Rides will be given regardless of how voter intends to cast their ballot.

Contact Li Arellano at 734-771-8415 to arrange your free ride!

www.ElectArellano.com Paid for by Citizens for Arellano, Beth McFalls, Treasurer

Opinion A6 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, April 4, 2015

EDITORIAL | APRIL 7TH CONSOLIDATED ELECTION

Honor Honest Abe; get out and vote A

braham Lincoln is on a lot of people’s minds these days, especially in the Land of Lincoln.

The 16th president was assassinated 150 years ago this month, just after he led the Union to victory in the Civil War. Not only that, but his leadership helped to rid the nation of the scourge of slavery.

On Election Day, people should be particularly mindful of Lincoln.

After all, elections are all about “government of the people, by the people, for

the people,” to quote Lincoln’s immortal words.

Lincoln fought tenaciously to make sure the American experiment in democracy did not perish from the earth.

However, rebels aren’t democracy’s only foe.

So is voter apathy.

How can a government truly be of the people, by the people, and for the people, if all of the people don’t take part?

Voters across the Sauk Valley face many important decisions in Tuesday’s Consolidated Election. They will

What we think

have been weakened because of the state of Preserving government of, by, and for the Illinois’ dramatically people is Abraham Lincoln’s legacy. Today’s poor finances.

In addition, voters in citizens can honor Honest Abe by choosing three communities are being asked to approve good leaders at the ballot box. new taxes to fix roads (Rock Falls), improve choose people to serve first municipal election storm sewers (Sterling), as mayors, commissionsince the Rita Crundwell and create a new ambuers, village presidents, theft scandal broke 3 lance service (Oregon). treasurers, clerks, trustyears ago.

To assist voters in being ees, library trustees, park But voters elsewhere district commissioners, have important choices to informed, Sauk Valley Media has written school board members or make. trustees, and fire protecUp and down the ballot, many stories and posted extensive information – tion district trustees. leaders who are elected including sample ballots, The spotlight has been Tuesday will have to candidate questionnaires, on Dixon, of course, as grapple with local govand dozens of candidate the community holds its ernmental budgets that

videos – on Election Central at saukvalley.com.

Also, candidates in selected contested races were invited to write guest columns; that 13-part series wraps up today with columns by candidates for the Sauk Valley Community College Board of Trustees.

Casting an informed vote is the best way to keep government of, by, and for the people healthy, strong, and honest.

And during this poignant month, it’s an altogether fitting way to honor Honest Abe.

THE READER’S VOICE

Choose Jesus and celebrate Easter always

ELECTION Countdown

3 days

JAMES D. GRYDER Sterling

Why do we celebrate Easter? It is the anniversary of the world’s greatest event.

Jesus overcame death and left an empty tomb as a witness. How do we know? The Bible tells the story in detail and also tells us that Jesus ascended into heaven 40 days later.

But for us today, one of the most important facts in the Bible is that Jesus is coming again.

In John 14:1-3, Jesus says: “Let not your heart be troubled, ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And, if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.”

This is a two-part event.

First, he is coming in what is known as “the rapture,” when all believers, both living and dead, will be caught up to heaven. This is described in I Thessalonians 4:13-16.

The second part appears to come about 7 years later at the close of the Great Tribulation period.

At this point, Jesus returns to set up his 1,000-year reign on earth.

Is your heart troubled?

The latest plane crash, the latest congressman resigning, and the latest policeman shot in Boston is enough to do it.

The world is a sinful place. Our only hope is to be part of the rapture.

Romans 10:9 gives the requirements: “That if thou shall confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.”

Do you believe the message of Easter? Either Jesus is Lord or he isn’t.

Everyone must make that choice. Choose Jesus, and celebrate Easter every day!

until the April 7th Consolidated Election.

Vote as you please, but please vote.

Joe Heller, Heller Syndication

More letters Please turn to pages A7, A8, and C5 for additional letters to the editor. for change. Change is good if you know what you want changed, and how to get there. You don’t vote for somebody just because they say “we need change.”

Finally, go with what you do know, a proven public servant, a man of honesty, intelligence, and integrity.

Hands down, Jeff Kuhn has earned title as mayor of the city of Dixon.

Dave Granlund, GateHouse News Service

driven, successful, familyoriented man of integrity and public service.

He honed his vigilance and leadership over tours in Iraq. While answering that call of duty, he paid off his house, ran his business successfully (even expanding), and maintained a loving family.

This is a person who does not lose his priorities under pressure. He is someone who learned the skills, leadership, and teamwork necessary to PHILIP ARELLANO carefully manage time and Dixon maximize effectiveness.

This citizen/soldier’s Li Arellano is exactly what Dixon wants to attract: a background is exactly

Vote Arellano for fresh start

EDITORIAL BOARD Jennifer Baratta Jim Dunn Sam R Fisher Sheryl Gulbranson Larry Lough Jeff Rogers

what we want in our citizen/leader mayor. Li is supremely capable of executing the oath of office, just as he faithfully executed his oath as a soldier.

Anyone who thinks otherwise has never seen him in action. I have!

He worked himself up from minimum-wage jobs. Our parents were not rich, but wealthy in wise counsel, assuring us that through integrity and hard work, we could use our skills to serve others effectively.

Li doesn’t feel entitled to your vote. He wants to earn it.

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.

Believes sewer backup is still the city’s fault

I encourage you to talk to MICHAEL J. HUBBARD Li. See how approachable Rock Falls and professional a leader can be. And on April 7, A few weeks ago, you printed my letter, “Blockvote for a fresh start. age was city’s fault, not resident’s” [ The Reader’s Voice, Feb. 21], that a blockage of tree roots at the street caused my FRED PETITTI sewer to back up, ruinDixon ing my water heater and First of all, if you sit at causing black mold. home and don’t get out The city refuses to pay and cast your vote, don’t any damages even though complain about the out- it admits to clearing the come. Your voice can be main line at the street heard, and yes, one vote causing blockage due to tree roots. Quoting the letcan make a difference.

Second, someone basing ter from Gallagher Bassett a campaign on the need Services Inc.:

Elect Kuhn as Dixon mayor

“I would rather die having spoken after my manner, than speak in your manner and live.”

Editorials represent the opinions of the Sauk Valley Media Editorial Board.

Socrates, Greek philosopher, c. 399 B.C.

Quotes brought to you courtesy of

“The Illinois Governmental Body Tort Immunity Act provides certain immunities from liability to governmental entities like the city of Rock Falls.

Under the Tort Immunity Act, willful and wanton negligence is needed to be found against a governmental entity, and not just ordinary negligence, for that entity to be held liable for an accident.

“We have completed our investigation into your sewage backup and found that the city did nothing to cause this damage and merely cleared the main line sewage blockage of tree roots in a reasonable amount of time once they were notified of it.

“After careful consideration of the facts involved in this loss and the circumstances as they occurred, we find no evidence of willful or wanton negligence on behalf of our client which would have caused your sewage backup.

“Our client was 0 percent liable for the incident at hand, and we must respectfully deny liability for this loss.”

Again, if the main line at the street had been properly maintained, neither my sewer nor my neighbors’ sewers in this block of Galt Avenue, Rock Falls, would have backed up, causing damage to our basements.

I still maintain if the city would have properly maintained the main line at the street, my sewer would not have backed up, causing the above damage, and that I and my neighbors should be compensated for our damages.

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.

Opinions expressed in letters and columns are those of the writers.

Saturday, April 4, 2015

www.saukvalley.com

SV Weekend • A7

SECOND OPINION

Ballot has lots of holes, but some good races I

f you look hard enough, you can probably find a reason to vote Tuesday.

But ballots in Lee and Whiteside counties have a lot of vacant spaces, and even more uncontested candidates.

The election hot spot in the Sauk Valley is Dixon, where everything is contested – mayor, council, school board, park board: 28 candidates for 12 seats in local government.

The center of political inactivity would have to be the village of Harmon, where the three positions on the ballot (clerk, two village trustees) have no contests – not even any candidates!

Harmon Township voters do have a proposition to decide: an increase of no more than 5 percent in the road district’s maximum levy.

That’s something.

Six candidates are running for three seats on the Rock Falls High School Board.

Tampico has two people campaigning for mayor, and seven candidates seeking four seats on the village board.

Three people want the Ward 2 seat on the Sterling City Council.

Five candidates are seeking three seats on the board at Sauk Valley Community College.

A handful of other contests will see only one candidate lose – among them are both Erie and Paw Paw School Boards and village trustees, Ashton-Franklin Center School Board, Prophetstown Fire District trustee and Ward 1 alderman, Sterling Ward 1 alderman, and Rock Falls Library Board.

Sales tax referendums are on ballots in Sterling and Rock Falls.

So, some choices.

SEVERAL ELECTIONS involve choosing multiple winners – and multiple losers.

Ashton has six candidates for three village trustees.

AMONG ODDITIES on Tuesday ballots is that Dennis Fulrath is running for a 6-year term on the SVCC board and Dennis P. Fulrath is a candidate for a 4-year

larryLOUGH Larry Lough is executive editor of Sauk Valley Media.

Contact him via email at llough@ saukvalley. com.

term on the Rock Falls High School Board.

Same guy.

And voters are going to elect some people who are not on the ballot – not even once.

We count no fewer than seven spaces on local ballots for write-in candidates, who had to register as such to be eligible to be elected.

The sure write-in winners are uncontested: the Ward 3 alderman seat on Sterling City Council, and two trustees of the Albany Public Library District.

We assume the candidates will vote for themselves – and they need only one vote to win.

It was only coincidental that our April Fool’s Day edition this week included the guest columns

written by candidates for the bizarre election for Dixon Park District Board.

Four park board seats – three 4-year terms and a 2-year term – are on the ballot.

Because Ron Pritchard is the only incumbent running, the board is assured at least three new members.

How many of them will be Pritchards will be determined Tuesday.

Pritchard’s son is on the ballot for a 4-year term, and his daughter-in-law is on the ballot for the 2-year term.

Not on the ballot are six write-in candidates – at least one of whom is sure to win a full 4-year term in that seven-way race for three seats.

One write-in hopeful is seeking the 2-year term.

Because of the difficulty of raising public awareness about their campaigns, write-in candidates seldom win contested races.

But it happens.

READING CAMPAIGN advertisements is both informative and entertaining, at least for

political junkies like this editor.

We’ve noticed a couple of endorsement ads recently.

Eight local labor unions are listed in an endorsement ad for Jeff Kuhn, a candidate for Dixon mayor. In his pre-retirement life, Kuhn taught math and government – and was a contract negotiator for the teachers’ union.

A separate ad from the Dixon Education Association, the teachers’ union, endorses three candidates for the school board. They include the only retired teacher on the ballot – but none of the two incumbents running for the three available seats.

Wonder what that’s about ...

For fun, compare the dueling “compare the candidates” ads in today’s paper for Dixon’s two candidates for mayor: Li Arellano on Page A3, and Kuhn on Page A10.

As you might expect, each uses different comparison criteria.

Voters will have to decide which experienc-

es are more important.

VOTERS IN DIXON will send a message on Tuesday.

But who knows what the message will be?

They spoke loud and clear in November when forces for change overwhelmed the status quo in a referendum that has the city on the verge of establishing a manager form of government.

Nearly 4,000 citizens voted on the ballot question, with more than 76 percent choosing to abandon the present commission government, which the incumbents wanted to keep.

Did that November election portend anything?

As many as three current commissioners could make up the new five-member council (a mayor and four council members).

Or it could be a whole new council.

The make-up will say something about the general mood of the local electorate in the first city election since Rita Crundwell became a household name.

What’s your guess?

THE READER’S VOICE

Considine for commissioner

What do you think?

Do you agree with the opinions on this page?

Do you disagree with them?

Let us know. Write a letter to the editor, send it to our office, or email it to letters@saukvalley. com.

Or, comment online at saukvalley.com.

If you haven’t registered to comment, use the Livefyre link that appears at the bottom of each story.

LINDA MAGNAFICI Dixon

Recently, there have been several letters to the Reader’s Voice that are negative and misleading.

One in particular attacked Commissioner Dennis Considine personally, and it was accompanied by another proclaiming a “clean house” start over.

Look beyond the pettiness. Look at the facts.

Look for the candidates who have the best qualities needed for city commissioner.

You will find that Dennis Considine has those qualities.

Don’t be influenced by negative people saying negative and untrue things.

Be positive. Re-elect a commissioner who is a positive person.

Re-elect Dennis Considine on April 7.

Rest in peace, commission government DEB DONOHO Dixon

DIXON – The Commission Form of Government, 104, of Dixon, died in 2014, at the polls by a majority of voters, from complications of lack of transparency, accountability, and responsibility to the public, and pet projects that overlooked things like aging sewer lines, with Dixon’s citizens at its side.

Created on Jan. 17, 1911, its survivors include the former and current citizens of Dixon, and citizens of the surroundings areas.

Voting will be Tuesday, April 7, at your designated polling place for a new mayor. A vote for the first man listed, Li Arellano Jr., will lead the city of Dixon in celebrating the birth of the new managerial form of government.

Li is the ONLY candidate who shared the voters’ preference on this government change.

Li writes: “We needed to professionalize our city operations. [ This] meant bringing in a full t i m e, p ro f e s s i o n a l l y trained manager. The old way placed far too much control [with] untrained

Dave Granlund, GateHouse News Service

commissioners, had far fewer checks and balances and far less consistency.”

Why wasn’t the other candidate for this change?

I believe a vote for Li Arellano Jr. is the only way for this to be successful.

Vote Kuhn for Dixon mayor ERIC FERGUSON Dixon

I had the privilege of teaching alongside Jeff Kuhn at Reagan Middle School and wholeheartedly support his campaign for mayor of Dixon.

As a teacher, Jeff was extremely knowledgeable and always available to his students. I have observed these same qualities in him since his election to Dixon City Council. He always makes time for those who wish to speak with him.

I also worked with him to bring my students to city hall for Government Day, which Jeff helped make an invaluable learning experience.

As a citizen, I have personally contacted Jeff on several issues, and he has always been quick to respond to me. When we had concerns regarding our street, Jeff was there promptly to address them.

Jeff ’s experience and dedication are what Dixon needs now. Please join me in voting for him on April 7.

Clean slate is needed to bring change JOHN WEITZEL Dixon

My vote is for Gibler, Whaley, Venier, and Bishop for council members, and Liandro Arellano as mayor.

As a longtime resident of Dixon, and with a strong knowledge of these five candidates, I encourage you to vote for them and bring change to Dixon.

Dixon needs a new direction, which it is getting with the new form of government, and with this change, I think we need new people to guide us in the right direction.

Of all the candidates, I find these four hold a good chance for our new form of government to succeed.

A fresh body of council members will make it easier for us to move ahead with this new concept of government.

A clean slate of candidates brings with it no preconceived notions about how it will or should work.

I was very impressed by these candidates’ presentations, and by knowing them personally, I feel they certainly have the will and knowledge to do

a good job in moving the city forward.

I believe with a new mayor, and a new form of government, Dixon has a great chance to move ahead, and that’s the reason I’m voting for them to lead us in a new direction.

Volunteer to be a foster grandparent RONALD J. NOVAK Sterling

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’

“Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’

“And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one

of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’” Mathew 25:34-40.

The Foster Grandparent Program has 10 openings for volunteers in elementary schools in the Sauk Valley, daycare centers, etc.

The only requirement is that you love children and want to have a positive impact on their lives.

Many are in one-parent homes or worse, and desperately need your love and caring.

We especially need more men to get involved.

Come on, guys, you really have no idea how much you’re missing.

Call Tri-County Opportunities Council at 815625-7830, ext. 30 or 40, and ask for Barb or Betty for more information.

Just do it.

Join rather than criticize the good fight DEL WASSO Dixon

At one point during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln was criticized for speaking of benevolent treatment for the Southern rebels.

The critic reminded Lincoln that there was a war going on; the Confederates were the enemy, and that they should be destroyed.

But Lincoln wisely responded, “I destroy my

enemies when I make them my friends.”

“I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those ... who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:44-45.

Task the haters to join the good fight alongside you, rather than immediately build up a defensive wall against them, shutting them out. You might be surprised to find out how quickly your “enemy” becomes one of your best of friends.

This strategy doesn’t mean compromise, or surrender. In fact, it means standing your ground.

An associate of mine “ h a t e d” g ove r n m e n t welfare and those who re c e i v e g ov e r n m e n t assistance. In his eyes, he thought he was being robbed by being forced (by government) to financially help out people he didn’t want to help.

“Charity should be voluntary,” he said to me.

“Awesome,” I replied.

“Let’s go undertake some voluntar y char itable works at the local shelter for abused women. And while we are there, doing what we need to do for our neighbors in need, you can tell me all about how horrible it is for a representative democracy to represent the will of the people and ensure that no American goes hungry.”

Years later, that associate of mine is still putting in a few hours each weekend at the shelter.

Letters to the editor appear today on pages A6, A7, A8, and C5.

A8 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, April 4, 2015

THE CANDIDATES’ VOICES | SAUK VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Stoller: ‘Opportunity to turn a new page’ SCOTT STOLLER Walnut

As a 6-year member of the board of trustees at Sauk Valley Community College and vice chairman for 2 years, I have been blessed to be a part of an economic engine in our Sauk Valley area.

As Sauk celebrates 50 years of service to our communities, we also have the opportunity to turn a new page as the board of trustees hires the next president for the college.

Throughout the process of hiring the next president, we have sought feedback from faculty, staff, community, and employers on what attributes they would like to see as the leader of the institution.

As we begin our next 50 years, we will be faced with unparalleled challenges in our future. The state of Illinois continues to be an unreliable revenue stream for the college, forcing more of the financial burden on our local taxpayers.

Yet, here is where the exciting opportunity stands before us. In partnering with our local employers in manufacturing, trades, and general education programs, Sauk Valley Community College can be true to its own name, and use our community resources available.

You see, our community is where our true assets lie. The people, the employers, and our local schools are the reason each of us lives and

Scott Stoller Age: 37 Experience: Sauk Valley Community College Board of Trustees, 6 years; chairman, 2015 SVCC Presidential Search Committee; grain merchandiser for AgPerspective Inc.; Bureau County Ethics Committee; Grain & Feed Association of Illinois Board; Bureau Valley FFA Alumni; volunteer softball coach, Walnut Park District; church council, Barnabus Group Chicago

works in the Sauk Valley.

Our family believes in education at every level.

No different than sports: if fundamentals are not taught at an early age, the concepts and principles will be foreign as the child grows older.

With remediation being a stumbling block for many students leaving high school, Sauk will be charged with helping to prepare students for the workforce.

We must provide a stable foundation necessary to lead our students down a path for success.

As Election Day nears, I ask you to stay vocal and active in all of your local elections. Have your voice be heard.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you over the past 6 years, and I look forward to doing so in the future.

Fulrath: Keep ‘strong, surviving, growing’ DENNIS P. FULRATH Rock Falls

My life’s passion is the education of our youths and the continued ongoing education of all adults.

I grew up in Rock Falls and graduated from Rock Falls High School. Then I attended DeVry Institute of Technology for engineering.

Then I attended Sauk Valley Community College. I graduated with an associate of science degree in industrial technology. I then attended Illinois State University and graduated with a bachelor of science degree in education and industrial technology.

At SVCC, I formed an inner belief and passion for education.

At SVCC, I was elected as president of the Associated Student Board and also was on the Board of Trustees as a student representative.

Upon graduation from ISU, I was recruited by IBM and was trained as a consultant to the manufacturing industry. Later, the late Oliver Wight recruited me to conduct large education forums on his modern-day manufacturing methods.

My career blossomed as a consultant and trainer and with further belief in both the education of our youths as well as continuing education for adults.

During my professional endeavors, I was pleased to serve as a substitute teacher in many Sauk Valley schools.

I have an inner belief in the late Doug Hand’s “Elwood and the 3-D’s” – Dream, Desire and Determination.

I have an inner belief that our SVCC community’s youths are the leaders and good citizens of the future.

I am pleased that SVCC offers the ability for our youths and adults, of all

Dennis P. Fulrath Age: 68 Experience: Former certified Illinois high school teacher; 30 years as a senior consultant to the manufacturing industry, domestic and international; expertise in educating executives, middle managers and end users, as well as experience with budgeting and financial analysis

ages, to achieve a 2-year degree, be prepared for advancement to achieve a 4-year degree, achieve a vocational certification in a chosen work, and even achieve a 4-year bachelor’s degree in some vocations.

In addition, I am pleased that SVCC offers courses, for all ages, in people’s interests and hobbies.

My purpose in serving on the SVCC Board of Trustees has multiple values. My educational passion for all ages and my business experience in working with multimillion-dollar budgets can help keep SVCC strong, surviving, and growing.

My interests and passion is for all vocations – manufacturing, health care, criminology, agriculture, retail and wholesale businesses, and all other work-related vocations meaningful to our community.

I currently work at Donaldson Co. and have the time available for any associated needs as well as to work with the SVCC Foundation in securing financial support for needy students.

I am proudly endorsed by the Illinois and National Education Association (IEA-NEA).

SAUK VALLEY MEDIA presents a series of guest columns by candidates in contested races.

Sauk Valley Community College Board of Trustees candidates were invited to write up to 400 words about why voters should support them.

Five candidates are running for three seats on the board of trustees.

ELECTION DAY: Tuesday; polls will be open from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m.

Thompson: ‘All of our students have value’ ROBERT J. “BOB” THOMPSON Dixon

As parents of two young children, my wife and I place great value in our public education system. Opportunities to grow in both mind and spirit are what parents want for their children.

We are blessed with excellent public schools in the Sauk Valley, and I am honored to be a candidate for Sauk Valley College Board, where I can serve to help students of all ages get the most out of their public community college.

It has been my privilege to serve on the Sauk Valley Community College Board for the past 17 years. Since its inception 50 years ago, Sauk has continued to provide a superior return on investment to our students by way of low tuition coupled with excellence in academic instruction.

Our community as a whole has also benefited when our Sauk-trained a n d Sa u k - e d u c a t e d graduates take goodpaying jobs in our area and contribute to our growth and tax base.

It is reward enough to be a part of the important decisions made by the SVCC Board, but my motivation to serve comes in knowing that our community college is here for everyone. We are open to serve stu-

Robert J. ‘Bob’ Thompson Age: 48 Experience: Sauk Valley Community College Board of Trustees, 17 years; attorney

dents young and old and from all income levels.

For the traditional high school graduates, to the grandparents who want to learn computers, to the single parents who want training for a better job and a better life for their families, we are here.

All of our students have value to us, and what is best for our students is why I serve on the board.

I am fortunate to be running for another term on the board. Every family I know has been touched in some way by a community college, and as Sauk turns 50, it is exciting to help prepare our community college for the next 50 years.

Thousands more students will have passed through our halls by then, and thousands more will have gained a better life for the experience.

Thank you, Sauk Valley community, for the privilege to serve. I would appreciate your early vote, or on April 7.

Andersen: ‘Improve students’ lives, careers’ EDWARD ANDERSEN Sterling

It is my desire to continue as a member of the board of Sauk Valley Community College.

I have served on this board for the past 27 years.

My educational background includes an A.A. degree from Clinton Community College, a B.A. from the University of Northern Iowa with highest honors, and an MBA from Northern Illinois University.

I remain active in the community, serving on Sterling Noon Rotary Club, chairman of the Greater Sterling Development Corp., CGH Health Fo u n d a t i o n B o a r d and Wesley Methodist Administrative Board.

I have a strong belief in the value of education, which is why I have devoted so many years of service as a member of the Sauk Valley Community College Board.

My years of experience give me a great deal of knowledge about community colleges and specifically SVCC. My priorities would be to offer high quality educational programs that will improve the lives and careers of our students, to see new programs offered that meet the needs of our current economy and work requirements, to control costs to make our educational offerings as affordable as possible, and finally, to assist the new president in achieving these goals.

We need to continually look at the needs of our students and the needs of the community to offer relevant programs.

Edward Andersen Age: 65 Experience: Sauk Valley Community College Board of Trustees, 27 years; retired CEO of CGH Medical Center, Sterling; part-time consultant; Sterling Noon Rotary Club; chairman, Greater Sterling Development Corp.; CGH Health Foundation Board; Wesley Methodist Administrative Board

This requires the college to be in contact with local employers so we know their needs.

We also need to scan what is going on in the country to adapt our course offerings to meet the broader needs of the economy.

Reductions in state funding have been a challenge in recent years. We need to continually work with our state officials to stress the importance of education both to the community and the economy of the state.

Second, we need to continue to address the perception that community colleges do not offer the same quality education as universities. We do that by ensuring the quality of our instruction and by making the public aware of our quality.

As outlined above, I believe I have the business experience, education, and passion to continue to serve effectively on the SVCC Board.

Note to readers Michael Ortiz, also a candidate for Sauk Valley Community College Board of Trustees, did not submit a candidate column.

THE READER’S VOICE

Serenity is nonpartisan LYNN KNODLE Byron

Serenity Hospice & Home is a nonprofit corporation, and our mission is to serve all residents in need of our services throughout Boone, Carroll, DeKalb, Lee, Ogle, Stephenson, Whiteside and Winnebago counties.

As such, Serenity Hospice & Home does not get involved in political races and does not support or oppose any political candidates whatsoever.

Note to readers: Lynn Knodle is the executive director of Serenity Hospice & Home in Oregon.

Sales taxes last forever C.R. CHATTEN Sterling

Ap p a re n t l y n o b o d y recalls the recent local 1 percent forever sales tax increase that goes into effect July 1, and will be paid forever every time a purchase is made.

The idea that it did not apply to food was incorrect. That tax does apply to any pre-made or cooked food item in the grocery store.

Every time a purchase is made at a restaurant, the tax is added.

Every time a pen, pencil, pair of socks, underpants, shirts, the smallest item to fix anything in the home is purchased, it is taxed forever at 7.75 percent.

This is what was voted for, against the better judgment of the public who did not show at the polls and vote the issue down.

Now, the city of Sterling wishes to pass a new sales tax on top of the recent tax increase. This would cause a new sales tax of 8.25 percent on many, repeat many, consumer items, including all of the above.

The apparent hope, as with the last no-show at the polls, is it takes only a few votes to fix every time, and that anyone outside of Sterling will pay for it all with their big spending.

This new half percent sales tax will last forever, just as the last sales tax increase will be a forever tax.

The stores do not pay this tax. You pay this tax, and no big spenders will rush into Sterling, or Illinois, to pay this tax.

Considine for commissioner BRIAN MATTES Dixon

Recently, there were two side-by-side letters that were negative, misleading, and false.

James E. Dixon was “amused” that Commissioner Considine’s sign was somehow wrong.

Dixon said, “The sign’s error points to the importance of voting out incumbents, particularly ones like Dennis Considine,” Mr. Dixon either is mistaken, or worse, willfully misstating the truth.

Take a look at the Telegraph website, which points out that, indeed, Dennis Considine is a commissioner, and he is running for the position of commissioner. When you take your ballot on Election Day, look at it and you will see that the category caption reads

“for City Commissioner,” and Dennis H. Considine is the fifth name down.

Better yet, look at the sample ballot posted on the Lee County clerk’s website. You will see in black and white that Dixon misstated the facts.

As to Pat Breeding, is he even going to vote in the Dixon election? Even though he has Dixon under his name, he’s not from Dixon, and he’s not registered to vote in Dixon.

Two men with a mean and less-than-honest agenda do not deserve your consideration.

Considine does, and deserves your vote.

Please vote for Dennis H. Considine on April 7.

Vote Whaley for city council DELORES KNESS Dixon

I would like to endorse Josie Whaley for Dixon City Council.

Josie is involved with the community by volunteering at the Community Food Pantry and being

a member of the Dixon Lionesses.

She volunteers with the ladies at St. Patrick Catholic Church with the funeral dinner ministry, as well as other activities of their ladies group. Josie was instrumental in forming the Dixon Area Christian Women, a group of ladies from the churches of Dixon who get together not only for fellowship, but also to raise funds for local charitable organizations.

I believe Josie will be one of the best city council members that Dixon could ever have. She is an honest, dependable, and knowledgeable lady.

She has been attending the city council meetings for the past 5 years, and has addressed the council on several occasions.

Josie has made a difference by speaking as a citizen, and I know she will really make a difference as a member of the city council.

Please join me in voting for Josie Whaley on April 7, and elect her as our next city councilwoman.

Thank you for supporting Josie.

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SV Weekend • A9

INDONESIA

ALABAMA

AP investigation prompts rescues of enslaved migrants

Death-row inmate freed after 29 years

More than 300 fishing workers are now free BENJINA, Indonesia (AP) – At first the men filtered in by twos and threes, hearing whispers of a possible rescue.

Then, as the news rippled around the island, hundreds of weathered former and current slaves with long, greasy hair and tattoos streamed from their trawlers, down the hills, even out of the jungle, running toward what they had only dreamed of for years: Freedom.

“I will go see my parents. They haven’t heard from me, and I haven’t heard from them since I left,” said Win Win Ko, 42, beaming, his smile showing missing teeth.

The captain on his fishing boat had kicked out four teeth with his military boots, he said, because Win was not moving fish

AP

Burmese fishermen wait for their departure to leave the compound of Pusaka Benjina Resources fishing company in Benjina, Aru Islands, Indonesia. Hundreds of foreign fishermen on Friday rushed at the chance to be rescued from the isolated island where an Associated Press report revealed slavery runs rampant in the industry. Indonesian officials investigating abuses offered to take them out of concern for the men’s safety. fast enough from the deck to the hold below.

T h e Bu r m e s e m e n were among hundreds of migrant workers revealed in an Associated Press investigation to have

been lured or tricked into leaving their countries and forced into catching fish for consumers around the world, including the United States. In response to the AP’s find-

ings, Indonesian government officials visited the island village of Benjina on Friday and found brutal conditions, down to an “enforcer” paid to beat men up. They offered immediate evacuation.

The officials first gave the invitation for protection just to a small group of men who talked openly about their abuse. But then Asep Burhanuddin, director general of Indonesia’s Marine Resources and Fisheries Surveillance, said everybody was welcome, including those hiding in the forest because they were too scared to come out.

“They can all come,” he said. “We don’t want to leave a single person behind.”

About 320 men took up the offer. Even as a downpour started, some dashed through the rain.

They sprinted back to their boats, jumped over the rails and threw themselves through windows.

ecutors on Wednesday moved to drop the case after new ballistics tests contradicted those done 3 decades ago. Experts BIRMINGHAM, Ala- couldn’t match crime bama (AP) – A man who scene bullets to a gun spent nearly 30 years found in Hinton’s home. on Alabama’s death “I shouldn’t have sat row walked free Friday on death row for 30 hours after prosyears. All they had ecutors acknowlto do was test the edged that the gun,” Hinton said. only evidence The state of Alathey had against bama offered no h i m c o u l d n’t immediate apolprove he commitogy. ted the crime.

“When you Ray Ray Hinton was think you are Hinton 29 when he was high and mighty arrested for two 1985 and you are above the killings. Freed at age law, you don’t have to 58, with grey hair and a answer to nobody. But beard, he was embraced I got news for them, by his sobbing sisters, everybody who played who said “thank you a part in sending me Jesus,” as they wrapped to death row, you will their arms around him answer to God,” Hinton outside the Jefferson said.

County Jail.

“They just didn’t take Hinton had won a new me from my family and trial last year after the friends. They had every U.S. Supreme Court intention of executruled that his trial coun- ing me for something I sel was inadequate. Pros- didn’t do,” Hinton said.

Evidence lacking for new trial, so inmate released

IN BRIEF

KENYA

Victims mourned in university attack of several her family received as the attack and hostage drama unfolded at Garissa University College, where gunmen from the al-Shabab militant group killed 148 people.

Then, about 1 p.m., a man got on the line to demand that Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta be contacted within 2 minutes and told to remove troops

from neighboring Somalia, where they are fighting alShabab extremists.

He phoned back promptly. When told the president had not been contacted, he said, “I am going to kill your daughter.” Three gunshots followed, and he hung up.

When Elizabeth’s father, Fred Kaskon Musinai, called the man back, he

said he was told: “She is now with her God.” Musinai said he is still hanging on to hope that Elizabeth somehow survived, although she is not on the list of wounded, which now numbers 104. He has traveled from his home in Kitale to Nairobi, where the dead are being brought to a morgue for families to identify and claim.

Quality Retina Care Is

ECONOMY

End of robust hiring raises doubts about job market WASHINGTON (AP) – For months, the U.S. economy’s strength has been flagging.

Manufacturing slowed.

Fewer homes were built.

Cheaper gas failed to ignite consumer spending. Yet month after month, employers kept on hiring vigorously.

In March, the economy’s slump finally overtook the job market.

Employers added just 126,000 workers – the fewest since December 2013 – snapping a 12-month streak of gains above 200,000. At the same time,

the unemployment rate remained at 5.5 percent.

The slowdown reported Friday by the Labor Department posed a puzzle to economists: Was the tepid job gain a temporary blip due mainly to a harsh winter and an economy adjusting to much lower oil prices?

Or did it mark a return to the middling performance that’s defined much of the nearly 6-year-old recovery from the Great Recession?

No one will know for sure until new reports come out later this spring.

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PARIS (AP) – Information retrieved from the “black box” data recorder of a doomed German jet shows its co-pilot repeatedly accelerated the plane before it slammed into the French Alps, investigators said Friday.

France’s air accident investigation agency, BEA, provided the disturbing new details a day after a gendarme found the blackened data

recorder buried in debris scattered along a mountainside ravine.

Based on an initial reading of the recorder, the revelation strengthened investigators’ early suspicions that co-pilot Andreas Lubitz meant to destroy the Germanwings A320.

French and German investigators are still trying to figure out why.

All 150 people aboard Flight 9525 from Barcelona to Duesseldorf were killed in the March 24 crash.

Sauk Valley Media Easter Coloring Contest

WINNERS! NN

Carsten Age 5

GARISSA, Kenya (AP) – The 20-year-old student called home from the university besieged

by Islamic militants and frantically told her father, “There are gunshots everywhere! Tell Mum to pray for me – I don’t know if I will survive.”

The call by Elizabeth Namarome Musinai at dawn Thursday was one

Co-pilot sped up as jet descended

Maddux Age 6

A10 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, April 4, 2015

VIRGINIA

AP

Louis Jordan (second from left) walks from the Coast Guard helicopter to the Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in Norfolk, Virginia, after being found Thursday off the North Carolina coast. His family says he sailed out of a marina in Conway, South Carolina, on Jan. 23, and hadn’t been heard from since.

Missing sailor back on dry land Rescued after 66 days, he’s in good health

IN BRIEF Utah is 49th state for Obama HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah (AP) – Utah, check.

One more state to go for President Barack Obama: South Dakota.

Utah was the 49th state visited by Obama and the latest stop on his recent

tour of Republican “red” states.

Since Republicans took control of both houses of Congress in January, Obama has traveled to 10 GOP states: Arizona, Tennessee, Idaho, Kansas, Indiana, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky and Utah, all of

which voted for Obama rival Mitt Romney in 2012.

Obama also has visited nine states that voted for his re-election.

The White House says there is no concerted effort to put the president in Republican states.

“There are really important, substantive reasons that

explain the places we go,” White House spokesman Eric Schultz said.

After spending the night in Salt Lake City, Obama appeared on Friday at Hill Air Force Base near Ogden to announce new steps to support military veterans by training them for solar industry jobs.

PORTSMOUTH, Virginia (AP) – Adrift on the ocean, the mast of his 35-foot sailboat torn away, Louis Jordan caught rainwater in a bucket, scooped up fish that were attracted to the laundry he hung over the side, and fervently prayed to God for help.

After 66 days missing at sea, he was finally rescued by a passing German freighter and brought ashore by the Coast Guard in good condition.

Early Friday, just hours later, the bearded 37-year-old man walked out of the Norfolk hospital where he was reluctantly taken, showing no

obvious ill effects. “ We were expecting worse, with blisters and severe sunburn and dehydration,” said Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Kyle McCollum, a member of the helicopter crew who brought Jordan to shore.

Jordan hadn’t been heard from since Jan. 23, when he set out on a fishing expedition aboard the single-masted 1950s-era sailboat that had been his home for months at a marina in South Carolina.

It was unclear how long after leaving port that the boat was damaged, the Coast Guard said.

Jordan was plucked from the Atlantic about 200 miles off the North Ca ro l i n a c o a s t o n Thursday afternoon after furiously waving down the container ship.

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Not mightier to pen MLB.com reports that lefty Travis Wood has won the fifth spot in the Cubs rotation, beating out Edwin Jackson, who will be moved into long relief.

Jackson is owed $22 million over the next 2 years.

Saturday, April 4, 2015

80

Numbers game MLB suspends pitcher Ervin Santana, who signed a 4-year, $55 million contract with the Twins in the offseason, for 80 games for testing positive for the performance-enhancing substance Stanozolol.

Sports for the Sauk Valley fan!

SVM WEEKEND SPECIAL | HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

IN NEED OF REPAIR? “America has rolled by like an army of steamrollers.

It has been erased like a blackboard, rebuilt and erased again. But baseball has marked the time...”

Field of Dreams

STORY BY PATRICK MASON

PHOTO BY ALEX T. PASCHAL

Locals talk about state of game

O

regon baseball player Taylor Brubaker had sort of an iron-man performance Thursday.

The Hawks right-hander pitched into the eighth inning Thursday against Dixon, before being lifted for a reliever after throwing 125 pitches.

Brubaker’s favorite sport is baseball. It’s also his best sport. He works on his craft throughout the offseason, in anticipation of pitching deep into games like he did on Thursday. His pitch count was so high because he told Oregon coach Adam Albrecht he felt fine. But it was also because Albrecht didn’t have many other options.

“With our numbers,” Albrecht said, “I was going to let Taylor keep pitching. We’re kind of in a tough spot. We don’t have many options.”

Oregon has 13 players on its varsity roster, and with nine players on the field at a given time, it doesn’t give Albrecht many options to be frugal with pitchers. A handful of the players are newcomers to varsity, and are playing up because the numbers are down.

“It’s a little sad,” Brubaker said in March during a practice. “I kind of wish more kids came out and played.”

But Oregon isn’t the only team with these issues, as several other teams in the area are similarly hamstrung.

AFC, Fulton and Morrison also

have 13 players, while Sterling has 15 on its roster.

This begs the question: Is high school baseball in a bad place?

Major League Baseball has been asking itself this question, as the popularity of other sports, such as football, have driven baseball away from its America’s Pastime moniker.

On the surface, professional baseball is thriving. Salaries are at an alltime high, as the average salary for MLB players has surpassed the $4 million mark this season. But what has become the issue is how to keep

fans engaged. And at the high school and youth levels, numbers show it is struggling to keep players engaged.

A popular topic that has been talked about is pace of play. MLB has toyed with rules that would force a pitcher to throw a pitch within 20 seconds of the previous pitch. Others intend to force a batter to keep one foot in the batter’s box, cutting time by not taking a stroll after every pitch. Some games can rumble on for more than 3 hours without an end in sight.

Big-league experts • The Major League Baseball season will start Sunday night with the Cardinals and Cubs at Wrigley Field. SVM enlisted local players and coaches to talk about their favorite MLB players and teams, and weigh-in on the 2015 season. See what they said on B8. Also check out the AP MLB preview on B9.

REPAIR CONTINUED ON B8

BOYS TRACK & FIELD | 2015 THREE RIVERS PREVIEW

Picking up the slack Comets working hard to fill in for injured teammate

BY TY REYNOLDS treynolds@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5554 @STyReynolds

Michael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com

Newman’s Bryson Reyes is one of the many athletes the Comets will depend upon during the 2015 season to help replace the loss of injured junior Brady Rude.

Newman is looking to once again compete strongly with some of the best teams in 1A.

Sports inside

The senior class of boys athletes for the Newman Comets have seen quite a bit of success during their time on the fields, courts and tracks.

So the idea of stepping up and filling in a huge gap in this year’s track season is nothing they can’t handle.

When junior standout Brady Rude – who has won seven state medals in his first two seasons –

More inside • The Three Rivers is a talented conference in boys track. Check out the athletes that will highlight the 2015 season in our area team capsules on B7. went down over the winter with a torn right pectoralis muscle and tendon, the Comets knew they’d have to find a way to replace those points.

But after a 1A state championship in 2013 and a fourth-place

finish last spring, Newman’s senior class knows what it takes to succeed against whatever obstacles are thrown in its way.

“We all know that we lost a lot of points with him being out, but we’re all up the challenge even if he doesn’t get to come back,” senior Nolan McGinn said. “We still think that we can be a competitive team and do well in conference and down at Charleston, and all the stuff that comes before that.”

HIGH SCHOOL EXTRA

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Meet Fulton senior Kyle Matthews, B2.

Get primed for Final Four, B4.

SLACK CONTINUED ON B7

Suggestion box Comment or story tip?

Contact Sports Editor Dan Woessner at dwoessner@saukvalley.com or 800-798-4085, ext. 5555

TOP OF 2

AP coach of the year John Calipari Kentucky coach earns honor after guiding talented team to a 38-0 record and a berth in the Final Foul. He received 40 first-place votes.

Your guide to what’s going on in sports

B2 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

AP player of the year Frank Kaminsky Wisconsin senior center recieves 58 first-place votes to beat out Duke’s Jahlil Okafor and Kentucky’s Willie Cauley-Stein.

Saturday, April 4, 2015

MY 2 CENTS

So, is baseball in trouble?

On the tube TV listings

Saturday Arena football 9:30 p.m.

• Arizona at Las Vegas, ESPN2

Auto racing 5:30 p.m.

• FIA, Formula E Championship, Long Beach (Calif) ePrix, FS1

Men’s basketball 5 p.m.

• NCAA Tournament, Final Four, national semifinal, Duke vs. Michigan St., at Indianapolis, TBS 7:30 p.m.

• NCAA Tournament, Final Four, national semifinal, Kentucky vs. Wisconsin, at Indianapolis, TBS

College football 11 a.m.

• Michigan Spring Game, BTN

College baseball Noon

• Marshall at FAU, CSN+ 1 p.m.

• Indiana St. at Wichita St., ESPNU 2 p.m.

• Kansas at Oklahoma, FSN 3:30 p.m.

• UTSA at FIU, CSN+ 6:30 p.m.

• Texas at Oklahoma St., ESPNU

College softball 11 a.m.

• Alabama at Kentucky, ESPNU

T

oday’s centerpiece story on high school baseball was inspired by a conversation I overheard during a game last spring at a high school baseball game.

That chilly day, a former coach in the area talked about his plans to watch certain MLB games on TV that night, and from there the conversation turned to the future of baseball.

That former coach’s outlook was somewhat grim, especially if the game didn’t look for new ways to appeal to younger people.

It should be noted that there were about two dozen people at this game, most of them huddled under blankets.

The conversation made me think about baseball in a different way, and a story idea started to fester.

On a side note, the cover art by Alex T. Paschal also was shot about a year ago. He stumbled upon a ball in Dixon that had been ripped apart – likely by a lawnmower. He snapped a photo (because that’s what photographers do), and liked how it turned out, especially in blackand-white, and kept it around just in case it could be used for something.

I don’t know if high school baseball – or baseball at any level – is broken.

I certainly don’t think that its future is any

less ball and one less strike, or rapid changes like that. Just keep the Sports batters in the box, and Editor Reach avoid long waits by the him at pitcher. dwoessner@ I think baseball has to saukvalley. look at its youth organicom or 800798-4085, zations. Traveling clubs ext. 5555. of all-stars might produce better players for the high school clubs and increase indimore at risk than many vidual players’ chances other sports. to play in college, but It’s not facing the they might be bad for brain injury issues and the overall health of the subsequent financing sport. issues that threaten Sports that thrive, high school football. thrive on numbers.

It doesn’t have masses Baseball – even when – especially older viewI was growing up 20 ers – unhappy like the some years ago – has a switching of basketball habit of being exclusive from two classes to four. instead of inclusive.

That’s still brought up Localized leagues in the stands at state that don’t require huge events several years financial and time burafter the change. dens on parents and But baseball problems players help develop the are hard to pinpoint. love of the sport among First, the kids and more youngsters – even coaches involved with if all of them don’t stick baseball sometimes with the sport. don’t see there being I love baseball, and any problem at all. They played until I was 16, might be right, or they and then I decided I had might be viewing the enough. Plus, baseball game with their hearts was simply telling me I and not their eyes. wasn’t probably going Second, baseball at to get much better. the high school level I also think limiting the has never been a money number of games is key sport. Attendance is free, among young players. but the crowds are genWhen I started playing erally sparse until the football, there was a postseason – and even five- or six-game schedthose games might not ule in the youth levels, draw fans if the weather and it left me wanting to doesn’t cooperate. play more. I’d spend the So, what do I think next year pining for the should be done? next season.

Yes, games could be I remember getting made faster. I am not halfway through a a big proponent of one 25-game baseball

danWOESSNER

schedule, and wondering when it would end.

I can’t imagine being a kid playing 60 or 70 games a year in travel situations.

I am a big proponent of leaving people wanting more, than having them feel like they’ve had enough. In baseball, limit the games, and maybe it’ll increase enthusiasm for offseason workouts that focus on skill improvement.

In Illinois, I am not sure starting in March helps a lot. This season, many games did happen, but that comes on the heels of two springs when games didn’t consistently start getting played until mid-to-late April. That’s almost half the schedule washed away.

I am not promoting a return to summer baseball, but maybe a more realistic schedule. Start games in mid-April, and have the season wrap up in mid-June.

It’s more fun to play games when the weather is nice, and it’s more fun to watch games when it is nice out.

After all, isn’t fun the most important aspect of any sport? I also think having two competitive major league teams in Chicago will help the sport in Illinois. Having the Blackhawks become good in hockey has done wonders for that sport over the last 5 years in this area.

So here’s to hoping that the Cubs and Sox live up to the hype.

On the tube TV listings

Sunday Women’s basketball 5:30 p.m.

• NCAA Tournament, Final Four, national semifinal, S. Carolina vs. Notre Dame, at Tampa, Fla., ESPN 8 p.m.

• NCAA Tournament, Final Four, national semifinal, Maryland vs. UConn, at Tampa, Fla., ESPN

College baseball Noon

• Wofford at W. Carolina, CSN 1 p.m.

• Texas at Oklahoma St., ESPNU 2 p.m.

• Nebraska at Maryland, BTN

College softball Noon

• Michigan at Minnesota, BTN 2 p.m.

• Oregon at UCLA, ESPN2

Men’s lacrosse 5 p.m.

• Johns Hopkins at Ohio St., BTN

Golf 2 p.m.

• PGA, Houston Open, final round, NBC 4 p.m.

• LPGA, ANA Inspiration, final round, at Rancho Mirage, Calif., TGC

1 p.m.

• Michigan at Minnesota, BTN

Men’s lacrosse 3 p.m.

• Penn St. at Maryland, BTN 4 p.m.

• Notre Dame at Duke, ESPNU

Women’s lacrosse 5 p.m.

• Ohio St. at Penn St., BTN

Boys basketball 11 a.m.

• Dick’s Sporting Goods National Championships, final, at New York, ESPN

Girls basketball 9 a.m.

• Dick’s Sporting Goods National Championships, final, at New York, ESPN2

Golf 2 p.m.

• PGA, Houston Open, third round, NBC 4 p.m.

• LPGA, ANA Inspiration, third round, at Rancho Mirage, Calif., TGC

Horse racing 4 p.m.

• Blue Grass Stakes, at Lexington, Ky.; Wood Memorial, at New York; Santa Anita Derby, at Arcadia, Calif., NBCSP

Soccer 6:45 a.m.

• Premier League, Liverpool at Arsenal, NBCSP 9 a.m.

• Premier League, Aston Villa at Manchester United, NBCSP 11:30 a.m.

• Premier League, Stoke City at Chelsea, NBC 2 p.m.

• MLS, Toronto FC at Chicago, CSN 3 p.m.

• Women’s national teams, exhibition, New Zealand vs.

U.S., at St. Louis, FS1

Tennis Noon

• ATP/WTA, Miami Open, women’s final, ESPN2

MLB

SAUK VALLEY EXTRA

Q &A

7 p.m.

• Cardinals at Cubs, ESPN2

Kyle Matthews

NBA Noon

• Rockets at Thunder, ABC 2:30 p.m.

Fulton senior catching recruiters’ eyes

What are your main sports & activities?

NHL • Penguins at Flyers, NBC 6:30 p.m.

• Blues at Blackhawks, NBCSP

Any other hobbies?

Soccer

I play xBox, and watch SportsCenter. If it’s nice out, I’ll go out to the park and play some basketball or whatever.

7:30 a.m.

• Premier League, Tottenham at Burnley, NBCSP 10 a.m.

• Premier League, Newcastle at Sunderland, NBCSP

How did you get into track?

What do you like best?

High jump, and then I like running 400s. I know everybody hates running 400s, but it’s exciting, especially indoors, because it’s two laps, and there’s a lot that can happen.

It depends on if you’re a curve runner or a straight runner; that race has both.

Do you prefer the team aspect of basketball, or the individual aspect of track?

Both. The team aspect allows you to really relate to and connect with your friends, and it’s more of a brotherhood. I like the individual part, because you get to spoil in your own rewards; it’s a little more selfish, but it’s always nice to have ribbons and medals.

5 p.m.

• Heat at Pacers, FSN

11 a.m.

I play basketball a lot in my free time. I played for the high school team, and I run track. That’s pretty much it, I don’t really do anything else.

I was going to go out my eighth-grade year, and I ended up missing the sign-up date. My freshman year, a lot of my friends said, ‘Hey, you should do track.’

I tried out, and my friend Brevin [Mason] got me started on high jump, and that’s pretty much what my main focus is.

• Bulls at Cavaliers, ABC

4 p.m.

• MLS, Real Salt Lake at San Jose, ESPN2 6 p.m.

• MLS, Philadelphia at Kansas City, FS1

What do you play on xBox?

Call of Duty, Advanced Warfare.

It’s all I play. I’ve played video games like that my whole life.

Favorite TV show?

I don’t really have one. If I’m ever on my TV, it’s because I’m playing xBox or watching sports.

Favorite music?

I listen to everything. Country music, rap, anything really.

College plans?

None yet. At first, I was just going to go to college and not play sports, because at that point, I wasn’t very good. I want to go into criminal justice, and be a cop later in life. But the last time we were here, I jumped 6-5, so that was pretty cool, and that opened my eyes that colleges are kind of interested in me. Monmouth came over and talked to me at indoor state last weekend, and I have an old track friend who went to Lewis who said their coach is kind of looking at me.

Is it nice to feel wanted?

Favorite food?

Fried chicken. I don’t know what it is, but there’s just something about fried chicken. My mom makes the greatest fried chicken I’ve ever had in my entire life. I’d eat it any day.

Yeah, it was actually really cool.

At indoor state, I was talking to Brevin, and I said, ‘It would be cool if I could get scouted here real quick.’ Then 10 minutes later, Monmouth came up and talked to me. I said, ‘Oh, there it is!’ That was pretty exciting.

As told to Ty Reynolds • SVM photo by Michael Krabbenhoeft

Tennis Noon

• ATP/WTA, Miami Open, men’s final, ESPN

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 800-798-4085, ext. 5552 or e-mailed to sports@saukvalley.com.

Contact us at 800-798-4085 Sports Editor Dan Woessner, ext. 5555 dwoessner@saukvalley.com Sports Reporters Patrick Mason, ext. 5550 pmason@saukvalley.com Ty Reynolds, ext. 5554 treynolds@saukvalley.com Brian Weidman, ext. 5551 bweidman@saukvalley.com

Saturday, April 4, 2015

www.saukvalley.com

SV Weekend • B3

COLLEGE BASEBALL | ELGIN AT SAUK VALLEY | DOUBLEHEADER

sportShorts SVM staff, wire services GIRLS BASKETBALL

On the calendar

Five locals named to All-State team

Local events

Saturday College baseball Noon

• Sauk Valley at Carl Sandburg

College softball 1 p.m.

• Sauk Valley at Black Hawk

Baseball 10 a.m.

• North Boone at Dixon • Princeton at Fulton (2) • West Carroll at Stillman Valley (2) 11 a.m.

• Amboy at Morrison (2) 12 p.m.

• Rock Falls at Jerseyville (2)

Softball 10 a.m.

• Sterling at Rockridge • Rock Falls at Collinsville • Princeton at Fulton (2) 11 a.m.

• Amboy at Oregon (2) 12 p.m.

• Sterling vs. Dixon, at Rockridge • Rock Falls vs. Waterloo at Collinsville 2 p.m.

• Dixon at Rockridge TBA

• Morrison at Freeport Invitational

Girls track 9:30 a.m.

• Sterling at Moline Invitational

Monday Baseball 4:30 p.m.

• Sterling at Alleman • Morrison at Oregon • Princeton at Amboy • Bureau Valley at St. Bede • Sherrard at Erie-Prophetstown • Rockford Christian at Polo-Forreston

Girls soccer 6 p.m.

• Dixon at Geneseo

Softball 4:30 p.m.

• Forreston-Polo at Dixon • Stillman Valley at Rock Falls • Morrison at Oregon • Princeton at Amboy • Bureau Valley at St. Bede • Sherrard at Erie-Prophetstown • Pearl City at AFC

Boys track 4 p.m.

• Polo-Forreston, West Carroll, Unity, Lena-Winslow at Morrison

Girls track 4 p.m.

• Polo-Forreston, West Carroll at Morrison

On this date April 4 2001 • Hideo Nomo becomes the fourth pitcher in MLB history to throw a no-hitter in both leagues in Boston’s 3-0 victory over Baltimore.

2003 • Sammy Sosa of the Chicago Cubs becomes the 18th player to hit 500 career homers, connecting for a solo shot in a 10-9 loss to Cincinnati.

2005 • North Carolina defeats Illinois to win the NCAA Division I men’s basketball championship. Sean May has 26 points, and the Tar Heels don’t allow a basket over the final 2½ minutes to defeat the Illini 75-70.

CLINTON

Philip Marruffo/pmarruffo@saukvalley.com

Sauk’s Nick Panzica tags out Elgin’s Ryan Thomas as he slides into second base. The Skyhawks dropped both games of a doubleheader by scores 11-4 and 4-3, respectively.

Poor timing Skyhawks drop two games against Elgin

BY BRIAN WEIDMAN bweidman@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5551 @BrianWeidman

DIXON – Time and timing were not on the side of the Sauk Valley baseball team Friday afternoon against Elgin.

The Skyhawks were handled 11-4 in the opener, but put up more of a fight in the nightcap, before dropping a 4-3 decision.

That game was stopped after six innings, one short of the scheduled seven, as darkness was fast approaching.

The best chance for Sauk Valley (3-13) to potentially take the lead in the second game was in the fourth inning, when it managed a run-scoring single from Angel Vega to draw within 4-3. With runners on second and third and two outs, the No. 3 hitter in the lineup, Justin Hitchcock, struck out against Elgin starter Andrew Wimberly.

“We were there at the end,” SVCC manager Chris Davis said, “and just didn’t get the key hit.”

Sauk went quietly in the final two innings, in the fifth against Wimberly and in the sixth against reliever Kevin Borst, who recorded his fourth save.

The Skyhawks scored a run in the first on a groundout by Hitchcock, but had another runner, Derek Kennell, cut down at the plate for the third out trying to score on an infield single by Josh Oliveras.

Sauk’s second run, in the third inning, came via a sacrifice fly by Mario Pacheco.

Bryant Lilly (1-2) took the loss, allowing four runs (three earned), eight hits and four walks in six innings, with four strikeouts.

Wimberly (2-0) got the win, allowing three runs (two earned), six hits and a walk, with four strikeouts.

Both teams struggled in the field, as they combined for seven errors, four of which were by the Spartans.

“I didn’t like the way we played defensively,” Elgin manager Bill Angelo said. “It was probably our worst defensive game of the year, but Andrew Wimberly did a great job of keeping their hitters offbalance. He got stronger as the game went on, and really helped keep us in the ballgame through our defensive woes.”

Elgin was dominant in the first game, thanks in large part to designated hitter Sean Dunne, who went 2-for-5 and drove in five runs. The big blow was a three-run triple in the top of the third to stake his club to a 3-0 lead.

Sauk starter Fabian Del Real (1-3) had Dunne in an 0-2 hole, but got too much of the plate with his next offering. Dunne hit a slicing line drive that found its

Eastland forward Lexis Macomber and Prophetstown guard Corrie Reiley were named to the special mention team of 50 players in the Champaign NewsGazette’s 38th annual All-State list, announced Friday.

The honorable mention list of 100 players includes three locals: Prophetstown’s Clare Kramer, AFC center Allison Prestegaard and Polo’s KeeLey Meyer.

Fremd’s Haley Gorecki, a Duke recruit, was named the paper’s player of the year.

MLB

Cubs’ Bryant upset over demotion Even 3 days after being assigned to minor league camp, Kris Bryant remained upset he still isn’t on the Cubs’ roster despite his nine home runs and .425 batting average.

“I’m disappointed,” Bryant said.

The Cubs want to delay his eligibility for free agency until after 2021 if he stays at Triple-A Iowa for at least 12 days.

“I really wanted my performance this spring to matter,” Bryant said. “I just felt it didn’t matter as much [to them] as it did to me.”

Angels’ Hamilton will not be disciplined An arbitrator determined that Josh Hamilton’s substance-abuse relapse did not violate Major League Baseball’s drug treatment plan, and the Angels outfielder will not be suspended.

The announcement from MLB on Friday came more than a month after Hamilton met with MLB officials in New York. It was later learned that Hamilton had self-reported his use of cocaine and alcohol to MLB. Commissioner Rob Manfred disagreed with the arbitrator’s ruling.

NFL

League hires first female official Line judge Sarah Thomas is among eight new officials selected by the NFL for the 2015 season, meaning she is the first female permanent game official in league history.

GOLF

Putnam leads Houston Open Philip Marruffo/pmarruffo@saukvalley.com

Sauk’s Bryant Lilly flies out to right field Friday against Elgin. The Skyhawks dropped both games of the home doubleheader, with Lilly pitching a complete game in the nightcap.

Star of the games: Sean Dunne, Elgin, 5 RBIs Key performers: Ryan Sitter, Elgin, 5 IP, 0 R, 1 H, 6 SO, 1 BB; Nick Panzica, Sauk, 2-for-4, 2B, 3 RBIs Up next: Sauk Valley at Carl Sandburg, noon Saturday (2 games) way into the right-center field gap.

“I was definitely very surprised,” Dunne said of the pitch he hit for a triple. “I was just trying to put the ball in play. The ball was on the outer half, and I just tried to do what I could with it.”

Dunne capped off a four-run fourth inning with an RBI single, and added a sacrifice fly in the sixth.

Elgin starter Ryan Sitter was

dominant in his five innings on the mound, allowing just one hit, and that was a bunt single by Wyatt Nale with two outs in the third inning. Sitter (2-0) struck out six and walked one.

The Skyhawks were able to get to Elgin reliever Josh Perkins for four runs in the final two innings, with the key hit being a two-run double by Nick Panzica. As he approached second base, however, he pulled his left hamstring and was done for the day.

Sauk Valley had some success at the plate once Sitter left the game, something to build on for the future.

“The first game, we didn’t have many hits,” Lilly said, “but the second game, the bats came alive. We just need to continue hitting the ball. After that, we’ll be a good team.”

Andrew Putnam made a late charge to pass threetime Masters champion Phil Mickelson, and holds a one-shot lead after two rounds of the Houston Open.

The 26-year-old Putman birdied six of his final nine holes on the Golf Course of Houston’s front side for a 7-under 65. He was at 12-under 132.

Mickelson shot 67 for a share of second place at 133.

Kim leads LPGA ANA Inspiration Lydia Ko missed a chance to break the LPGA Tour record for consecutive rounds under par, closing with a bogey for a 1-over 73 on Friday in the second round of the ANA Inspiration.

Ko was seven strokes behind leader Sei Young Kim.

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Saturday, April 4, 2015

WISCONSIN VS. KENTUCKY

AP

Wisconsin’s Josh Gasser knocks the ball away from Penn State’s D.J. Newbill during a game on Dec. 31, 2014. Gasser does a lot of dirty work for the Badgers, who will play undefeated Kentucky in a national semifinal on Saturday in Indianapolis.

Badgers get next crack at Kentucky Rematch packed with storylines “It’s obviously motivating, because you INDIANAPOLIS – Next want to come back to in the way of Kentucky’s this stage,” Kaminsky perfect season: Frank said. “This is what seathe Tank and his funsons are remembered loving band of Wisconfor. You remember the sin teammates. national champion at Player of the Year the end of the season.”

Frank Kaminsky and Win or lose, these the Badgers were so Kentucky players will loose they were giggling be remembered – and on the podium during watched some more. their interviews Friday, Freshman Karl-Anthoanswering questions ny Towns – likely to about what they eat become one of Cali(Kaminsky likes omelets pari’s much-discussed with syrup on top), how “one-and-dones” – is a they slept (Sam Dekker probable lottery pick, as got 8 solid hours), and is junior Willie Cauleywhat their word of Stein. The Harrison the day is for the poor brothers and four or five NCAA stenographers more are also expected they discovered earto wind up in the NBA, lier at the tournament too.

(Nigel Hayes went with Wisconsin has a few “prestidigitation”). future pros – Kaminsky, The team they face Dekker and Hayes. But Saturday, 38-0 Kentucky, it’s no big secret that the is also trying to keep Badgers won’t win on things pressure-free, and raw talent. their coach, John CaliThe postmen: The big pari, tried working some man is back – at least magic of his own with at this Final Four. This the numbers. game will feature three “Everybody is 0-0,” of best: Kaminsky for Calipari said. “Whether Wisconsin, and 6-11 you’re Duke, Michigan Towns and 7-foot CauState, Wisconsin or us, ley-Stein for Kentucky. everybody’s record is The Wildcats also have the same. We’re all feel- Trey Lyles at 6-10 and ing the same thing. We Marcus Lee at 6-9. To all want to win a nation- practice for Kentucky’s al title.” height, Ryan tinkered If the Wildcats do, with the idea of using they’ll be the first protennis rackets to swat gram since the 1975-76 down shots at practice.

Indiana Hoosiers to “But with these guys, finish a season as they might have started undefeated champiwhacking each other ons – an accomplishwith them,” he said. ment that hovers over “We can’t simulate what everything this week at they have.” what is shaping up as a Analytics: When monumental Final Four asked what stats he because of the history pays most attention to, involved.

Ryan focused in on one: “If we do complete Points per possession. that goal, I couldn’t It’s pretty clear why. The even put it into words,” Badgers lead the nation said Andrew Harrison, in that stat at 1.22. Kenwhose two free throws tucky’s not far behind, were the difference ranked ninth at 1.156. in the 68-66 win over Balance: Part of CaliNotre Dame in the Mid- pari’s coaching brilwest Regional final. liance this season has But undefeated been figuring out how doesn’t necessarily to spread the minmean perfect, and Wis- utes and the touches, consin is hardly in awe. while keeping everyThis is a rematch of last one happy. Nobody year’s semifinal. In that on Kentucky averages game, the Badgers (35-3) more than 26 minutes a were leading Kentucky game, and Andrew Harby two when Harrison’s rison leads the team twin brother, Aaron, in scoring with a modspotted up from behind est 11 points per game. the upper-left part of the The Badgers, whose arc with 5.7 seconds left roster isn’t as deep, and made his second have three players who straight game-winning score more – Kaminsky 3-pointer.

(18.7), Dekker (13.9) “He has that clutch and Hayes (12.4). gene,” Dekker said after Ends and odds: The that one.

Wildcats are five-point One notable stat from favorites, matching the that 74-73 thriller: lowest number they Kaminsky finished with have been favored by all only eight points and season. Also, for those five rebounds. thinking this Kentucky The 7-foot center, who team will go down as the averages 18 points and best in college basketalmost nine rebounds ball history if it runs the this season and will like- table, think again. The ly go in the first round 2014-15 Wildcats would of the NBA draft, said he be a 3½-point underdog would have returned for against the 2011-12 title his senior season either team, according to R.J. way. Still, the loss – and Bell, a betting analyst the way it went down – who runs the Pregame. left a mark. com website.

BY EDDIE PELLS AP National Writer

MICHIGAN STATE VS. DUKE

Unusual undercard Blue Devils, Spartans would be main event at any other Final Four

BY DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

INDIANAPOLIS – Any other year, this would probably be the premier matchup of the Final Four.

On one bench sits topseeded Duke and its record-setting coach, Mike Krzyzewski. On the other is upstart Michigan State and Tom Izzo, one of the finest coaches in the game come March.

But with overall No. 1 seed Kentucky chasing perfection against those loveable goofballs from Wisconsin, the opening game of Saturday night’s national semifinals has taken on an undercard feel – two of the game’s most tradition-rich programs kicking things off at Lucas Oil Stadium before a massive crowd and potentially recordsetting TV audience.

“We’ve been that way all year: overlooked, doubted the whole time,” said the Spartans’ Travis Trice, who Krzyzewski lauded as the biggest breakout star of this year’s NCAA Tournament.

“But we don’t really look like it like that,” Trice added, moments later. “If we win, people are going to be talking about us. We win a national championship, everybody will be talking.”

The seventh-seeded Spartans (27-11) have certainly come a long way since November, when they were routed by the Blue Devils (33-4) just down the street at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.

Freshman guard Tum Tum Nairn has replaced Bryn Forbes in the starting lineup, giving Michigan State a much-needed shot of speed. Trice and fellow senior Branden Dawson have learned to shoulder the leadership role. And just about everyone else has found their niche for a team that

AP

Michigan State’s Gavin Schilling goes up for a dunk during a practice session for the Final Four. The Spartans – a No. 7 seed – have been flying high and upsetting higher seeds in the NCAA tournament. Next up is top-seeded Duke in a national semifinal game on Saturday in Indianapolis. missed out on the Final Four a year ago, when everyone expected it to contend for the title.

“That was a devastating loss last year,” Izzo recalled Friday. “That’s what the beauty and the terror of the tournament is, you’ve got to play well six straight games to win.”

They’ve already done that four times, beating Georgia and then knocking off, in succession, second-seeded Virginia, third-seeded Oklahoma, and fourthseeded Louisville.

Now, they have a chance to topple a No. 1 seed.

Relying on stingy defense, the Blue Devils have run roughshod through the opening 2 weeks of the tournament. Even when shots weren’t falling, and All-American forward Jahlil Okafor was held in check

by Utah and Gonzaga, Coach K’s bunch of bluebloods have been just fine.

That doesn’t mean there haven’t been potholes on the road to Indianapolis.

The Blue Devils went through a lull in January, losing to North Carolina State and getting pounded

by Miami. Junior guard Rasheed Sulaimon was booted from the team, the first player to be dismissed by Krzyzewski in 35 seasons. And there were times when the trio of Okafor, Tyus Jones, and Justise Winslow looked like wide-eyed freshmen rather than superstar prospects.

There is no shortage of story lines as two of college basketball’s premier programs try to move one step closer to another national title. Here are some to watch: Okafor and Jones: Izzo should be quite familiar with Duke’s star freshmen – he recruited both of them heavily. The close friends even visited the Michigan State campus in East Lansing before committing to the Blue Devils.

“They were one of the first schools to recruit me,” Okafor said. “I love Tom Izzo and their coaching staff.

They have a great relationship with my family.”

Turnover trouble: When the teams met Nov. 18, the Blue Devils forced 13 turnovers that they

turned into 24 points. Izzo has been harping on ball security ever since.

“That’s definitely been the key since that game,” Trice said. “We feel like we beat ourselves.”

Dawson vs. Winslow:

Sure, there are other stars in the spotlight, but this could be one of the pivotal matchups. Dawson is arguably Michigan State’s toughest defender, and Winslow has been one of the Blue Devils’ hottest players, averaging 14 points in the NCAA Tournament.

The coaching matchup: Krzyzewski and Izzo

have met nine times, and Coach K has won eight of them. That includes a 2-1 mark in the NCAA Tournament. But there may be no coach more dangerous as an underdog than Izzo, who has a record 13 tournament wins as the lowerseeded team.

“You know, stats are unbelievable, man,” Krzyzewski said. “That doesn’t make a difference at all. They’re going to be ready. You know what?

They don’t lack talent.”

Saturday, April 4, 2015

www.saukvalley.com

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

SV Weekend • B5

GOLF

A great evening on the Rock T

hursday, like so many days in my life, found me at work itchin’ like a dog with fleas to get out on the river. The only difference was that this particular Thursday, I was actually scheduled to get out of work early enough to do so.

It didn’t hurt that the temperatures were soaring into the upper 60s, and a cold front with a chance of rain was steaming straight for us.

These conditions are perfect for a little evening trip to the Rock.

After making record time exiting Sterling Steel and changing clothes in a minute flat, I was on the road to glory.

A quick stop to grab the boat and my best fishing buddy – my daughter, Taya – and we were off.

The evening did not disappoint, as the fish were absolutely biting at will. It was one of those days that using more than one pole was just flat stupid. I didn’t even bother to try and keep a count, because the fishing was just so fast it just didn’t matter.

Now, we weren’t catching any pigs at all, but the sheer number of 1- to 3-pound channel cats was off the charts.

Just seeing my daughter smile was worth the trip. I only wonder the amount of fish we could have caught had we been able to fish the whole day. It was easily the best day of fishing I have had this year to date.

mattJONES Fishing guide from Prophetstown.

He can be reached at flathead mechanic40 @gmail.com

AP

of selective harvest.

Also, I feel it my duty to remind you all that your 2014 fishing licenses are now no good. Make sure you hit your local outdoors store and get yourself all legal and whatnot.

No sense in getting a ticket when you’re out enjoying a day on the water.

Just a reminder to you all in closing this week that our first catfish tournament of the year is next Sunday. We will be out in force doing our thing at the Route 2 ramp, and we would love to see all of you there as well. Whether you’re fishing or just checking out the fish at the weigh-in, come on out around 1 p.m. and say hi.

Again, if you want more Submitted photo details, hit me up at flatCatMatt’s daughter, Taya, landed this channel cat headmechanic40@gmail. last Thursday on the Rock River. It was a fun earlycom, and I will get you season evening outing for the Jones family. whatever you need. This This type of day should big, fat, pregnant female first get-together of the year is always fun, and become commonplace walleyes, it’d be great if I’m looking forward to it. now, with water temps you eased her on back.

Also, after carefully nearing 50 degrees and It’s not the law, it’s just researching my records fish feeding heavily. It’s a good thing to do. The not just the catfish, either. catfish are biting so well and looking at the extended forecast, I’d The walleye bite is really that if a guy wanted to say we are about 15 days picking up, and I also saw keep a mess, he could away from Morel Mania a couple of big northern keep all males and 2015. Are you ready? pike taken as well. release the females. But Until next week, Go Now, if you get your hey, again, it’s not the hands on one of those law, it’s just a great form Catfish!

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL | FINAL FOUR

Dee Brown to put on ‘dad hat’ Former slam dunk champ headed to Tampa to watch daughter play

BY DAVID GINSBURG AP Sports Writer

COLLEGE PARK, Md. – Former NBA star Dee Brown taught his daughter all about the game of basketball. Unfortunately, he doesn’t often get to see Maryland sharpshooter Lexie Brown play in person He will this weekend.

The Sacramento assistant coach and former slam dunk champion is taking a break from his job, and putting on his “dad hat” to see his daughter play in the women’s Final Four.

Lexie Brown could not be more excited.

“It’s going to be great.

He couldn’t have come at a better time,” Brown said Thursday, shortly before the Terrapins headed to Tampa, Florida, for a showdown with Connecticut in the national semifinals on Sunday night.

“My mom was there for the first-round games, and when I look up at her, a calm comes over me,” Lexie said. “When I see my dad in the stands, it’s calm times 100. It’s like, ‘I got this. My dad’s here.’ I can’t wait.”

Her father is pretty pumped, too, even though he has watched Lexie play plenty of times this season on TV and video. After every game, he calls with advice.

“I’m a dad first. I just tell her, ‘I’m proud of you, way to play hard.’ And then I’m a coach second,” said the 46-yearold Brown, who will miss the Kings’ game Sunday night against the Utah Jazz. “I’ll say, ‘Listen, you could have done this, you could have shot this, you missed this pass here, you could have played defense better on this possession.’ But that’s probably very quick, and my dad hat comes out first to make sure she knows I’m proud of her and I’m always watching and supporting her.”

Sunday’s semifinals • South Carolina vs.

Notre Dame, 5:30 p.m.

(ESPN) • Maryland vs. UConn, 8 p.m. (ESPN)

AP

Lexie Brown (4), seen here against Nebraska on Feb. 8, is extra excited for Maryland’s second consecutive trip to the Final Four this weekend, because her father, NBA assistant Dee Brown, will be in attendance.

Even from afar.

“My daughter understands my job,” Brown said. “She knows I can talk to her every day, but this makes it more special. I’m nervous, probably more than she is, just because it’s my first game all year.”

Lexie Brown wears No. 4, the same number her father wore in college at Jacksonville. This season, she was named to the All-Big Ten first team, voted Most Outstanding Player at the Big Ten Tournament, and was one of three Terrapins to average in double figures in scoring.

The 5-foot-9 sophomore guard is a big reason why Maryland has

been in the Final Four in each of the past 2 years.

“She’s accomplished a lot more in her 2 years in college than I achieved in my whole college career,” Dee Brown boasts.

Lexie Brown attributes much of her skill to time spent with her father while growing up.

“We had a half-court in our backyard, so we were always out there,” Lexie recalled. “Then Dad opened up his own training facility in Orlando.

That’s where we started our journey together, playing basketball in the gym for hours. Those are the moments I remember most vividly when I was younger, and I love them.”

When she was picking a college, Maryland didn’t really choose Brown. She chose Maryland.

“It was a real easy recruiting process, because she wanted to come to Maryland and we wanted her,” coach Brenda Frese said. “... It was a perfect fit.”

When Lexie showed up for her first practice last year, it was clear there was something different about her – in a good way.

“She was raised by her father, who grew up in the game,” Frese said.

“She had poise beyond her years in every single element. That’s what makes her so special.”

Dee Brown played 12 years in the NBA with Boston, Toronto, and Orlando. His most notable moment probably was at the 1991 NBA Slam Dunk contest, which he won with a “no-look” jam.

Impressive stuff, except perhaps to Lexie’s friends.

“Most people my age have no idea who my dad is, which is completely OK with me,” she said. “But a lot of older people go, ‘Your dad did the dunk.’”

Lexie loves being Dee Brown’s daughter. But she’s also making a name for herself at Maryland.

“I’m proud of who my Dad is and what he’s accomplished,” Lexie said. “I love when I go out with him and people are like, ‘Dee Brown! Can I have your autograph?

Can we take a picture?’

Every little girl loves seeing her dad be like a superstar. But now sometimes, it’s, ‘Dee, can you take a picture of me and Lexie?’ ... That has been kind of cool.”

Tiger Woods announced on his website Friday that he will play in next week’s Masters after a 2-month absence from professional golf. Early odds have him at 40-1 to win the tournament.

Can practice make perfect at Augusta?

Woods will play in Masters next week after 2-month hiatus

BY DOUG FERGUSON AP Golf Writer

Tiger Woods ended all that speculation about his game by letting everyone see for themselves.

He said Friday he will play next week in the Masters.

Golf’s biggest attraction and four-time Masters champion played two practice rounds at Augusta National this week before a simple announcement on his website that he would end his 2-month leave on the sport’s biggest stage.

“I’m playing in the Masters,” Woods said on his website. “It’s obviously very important to me, and I want to be there. I’ve worked a lot on my game, and I’m looking forward to competing. I’m excited to get to Augusta, and I appreciate everyone’s support.”

Woods was last seen at a golf tournament on Feb. 5 at Torrey Pines. He hit a sand wedge 30 yards over the green, duffed a chip coming back, bladed the next one too hard, and made double bogey. One tee shot later, he withdrew because of tightness in his lower back.

Of far greater concern was the state of his game.

Woods has played in two tournaments this year, and completed just 47 holes. His short game was shockingly bad at the Phoenix Open, where he shot a career-worst 82 and missed the cut by nine shots. And he didn’t get out of the first round at Torrey Pines.

A week later, he said his game and his scores were unacceptable: “I enter a tournament to compete at the highest level, and when I think I’m ready, I’ll be back.”

Those are words by which he will be judged next week at the Masters.

Woods played an 18-hole practice round Tuesday at Augusta, and he played again at the club on Friday, according to his agent.

He will have gone 9 weeks without competition when he hits his opening tee shot on Thursday, which is not unprecedented for Woods. He went nearly 5 months without playing when he returned in 2010 from a crisis in his personal life that led to one of the greatest downfalls in sport. He tied for fourth that year.

Scrutiny might be even greater this time around.

The last time Woods took an extended break before the Masters, he had won his previous tournament at the Australian Masters, and was No. 1 in the world after a seven-win season.

Now, his game has been in disarray over a series of injuries, physical limitations, and another change in coaching.

He hasn’t won a tournament since the Bridgestone Invitational in August 2013. He hasn’t finished under par in 14 months, dating to the 2014 Dubai Desert Classic. And he has plunged to No. 104 in the world, his lowest ranking

By the numbers 2: Months Woods was away from the PGA Tour.

9: Weeks between his last tournament & next week’s Masters.

14: Months since Woods has finished a tournament under par (2014 Dubai Desert Classic).

19: Months since Woods has won a tournament (2013 Bridgestone Invitational).

47: Holes he’s played on Tour this season.

104: Woods’ World Golf Ranking, the lowest since Sept. 29, 1996, the week before his first professional win. since Sept. 29, 1996, a week before he won the first of his 90 professional tournaments worldwide.

Woods hasn’t won the Masters in 10 years, though he has managed there even when his game was off. It’s the only major where Woods has made the cut every time.

He missed the Masters last year because of back surgery to alleviate a pinched nerve, and he wound up sitting out 3 months. Four tournaments into his return, he again dealt with back pain, and sat out the final 4 months of the season to fully recover and get stronger.

But when he returned at his Hero World Challenge in December, he tied for last in an 18-man field, and chipped so poorly that some analysts said he had the chipping yips.

Another 2 months of practice didn’t help. During the Phoenix Open proam, he hit a bunker shot on the 16th hole that shot over the green and into the first row of bleachers.

Chipping and pitching at Augusta National does not allow for much margin of error, and the scrutiny figures to be at a high level even by Woods’ standards.

“The first little pitch shot he’s got to hit – not chip shot, the first little pitch shot he’s got to hit – will be microanalyzed, and he knows that,” said Paul Azinger, a former PGA champion and now ESPN analyst. “There’s a big microscope on that guy.

I don’t think he’d show up unless he feels like he solved that problem.”

When he skipped the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, Woods said he would continue working, and hoped to be ready for the Masters.

There have been secondhand reports that Woods was playing a lot at his home club, The Medalist, in South Florida.

Golfweek cited a source as saying Woods shot 74 with five birdies when he played Augusta National on Tuesday.

“All we see with Tiger is the tip of the iceberg,” Azinger said. “And what we don’t know is what’s under the tip of the iceberg. How hard has he worked on being the best player, not the best swinger? That’s what we don’t know.”

B6 • SV Weekend Dilbert by Scott Adams

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, April 4, 2015

Zits® by Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman

Arlo & Janis by Jimmy Johnson Garfield by Jim Davis

Stone Soup by Jan Eliot 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

Options continue to be elusive

Grizzwells by Bill Schorr

George Eliot said, “The strongest principle of growth lies in human choice.”

In bridge, you have a choice of which card to play, with the restriction that you must follow suit.

But sometimes when it seems that you are spoiled for choice, you had better be careful.

In this deal, South barrels into seven spades. He wins the diamond lead with his ace and cashes the spade king to draw the missing trump. But what should he do next?

Declarer starts with 12 top tricks: eight spades, one heart, two diamonds and one club. At first glance, it looks as though he will need the club finesse to work. But

there is another potential source for an extra winner – what?

Maybe hearts will split 4-3, a 62 percent shot, and the heart eight can become a winner. However, that will

require four dummy entries, three for heart ruffs in hand and one to return to dummy to cash the last heart. What are declarer’s dummy entries?

There are three obvious ones: the heart ace, spade ace and spade queen. The fourth must be the spade four. So South must take care with his spade two.

He does best to put it in his pocket.

The play continues: heart to the ace, heart ruff high, spade to dummy’s queen, heart ruff high, spade to the ace, and a heart ruff high.

Now declarer retrieves his spade two, overtakes it with dummy’s four, and discards his club four on the heart eight.

Finally, note that if hearts break badly, the club finesse is still available. © 2015 UFS

Saturday, April 4, 2015

BOYS TRACK & FIELD

SV Weekend • B7

SVM SCOUTS THREE RIVERS BOYS TRACK Amboy Clippers

Fulton Steamers

Coach: Jeramey Wittenauer (8th season) 2014 postseason: Placed 8th out of 15 teams at 1A Oregon Sectional.

Roster Luke Becker Sr. throws Zack Becker Jr. distance Nick Bickett Sr. distance James Blackburn Jr. distance Koty Conderman Jr. sprints Jeffry DeLong Sr. sprints Travis Eames Fr. sprints Wil Flanagan Fr. throws Kyle Gascoigne So. throws Josh Gross Jr. sprints Austin Henkel Sr. sprints Kyle Hunter Fr. throws Kyle Kemmerer Sr. throws Sam Klein Sr. distance Quinn Lamkin Sr. throws Levi McCoy Sr. sprints Paul Meyer So. distance Thomas Molln Fr. distance Liam Ohlendorf Sr. sprints Colton Pohl Sr. throws Caleb Sarff Fr. sprints Alan Stamberger Jr. distance Cole Stewart So. throws Clay Stuepfert Jr. throws Brian Wittenauer Jr. sprints Outlook: The Clippers have depth at every event, and now need to turn that into points. They will try to build on a solid eighth-place finish in last year’s sectional meet, and will look to improve enough individually to possibly send a bus to Charleston.

Coach: Mike Ankrom (3rd season) Postseason: Placed 6th at 1A state meet, & 2nd out of 15 teams at 1A Erie Sectional. Placed 3rd in 400 relay, 800 relay & 1,600 relay at state. Qualified for state in 800 relay (7th place in finals), high jump (Kyle Matthews), triple jump (Rodney Gossard) & 300 hurdles (Bryce Holesinger, 3rd place in finals).

Roster Kyle Alstead Jr. mid-distance Jeff Banker Jr. distance Michael Dixon Jr. jumps, sprints Blake Dornbush So. throws Colby Dykstra Sr. throws Alex Gillis Jr. throws Rodney Gossard Jr. jumps, sprints Shawn Hintz Sr. sprints, jumps Storm Hoover Jr. throws, sprints Gabe Hunt Fr. jumps, sprints Christian Hutchison Jr. distance Andrew Knudsen Fr. sprints, jumps Brevin Mason Sr. mid-distance Kyle Matthews Sr. jumps, sprints Kyle McLuckie So. throws Nathan McLuckie Fr. jumps, sprints Sam Norman So. sprints Keegan North Jr. throws, sprints Jason Osborn Sr. sprints Tyler Pauline So. sprints Michael Pidde So. jumps, sprints Kevin Roox Fr. distance Jacob Schmidt So. distance Austin Schroeder Fr. jumps, sprints Justin Shaffer Sr. throws Trey Simmons Jr. sprints Jesse Sing Fr. distance Robert Stuart Jr. distance Hobs Winters Jr. distance Outlook: The Steamers have quality sprinters, jumpers, throws and middle distance runners, and are especially deep in the sprints, which could mean good things for the shorter relay races.

Gossard and Matthews will look to make return trips to state, and hope to bring several teammates along with them.

Expect Fulton to be competitive meet in and meet out.

Bureau Valley Storm Coach: Jeff Ohlson (2nd season) Postseason: Placed 4th out of 15 teams at 1A Erie Sectional. Finished fifth in 1,600 relay & 3,200 relay at 1A state meet, and also qualified in 800 (Kane Eastwood) & 300 hurdles (Tucker Schoff).

Roster Jed Barnes Sr. throws Kurt Bitting Fr. hurdles, distance Austin Catton Fr. distance Trey Dale Jr. jumps, sprints Drake Davis Fr. jumps, sprints Michael Eastwood So. jumps, sprints Alex Elmore So. jumps, sprints Lee Eshelman So. throws Gailen Gibson So. jumps, sprints Nick Glubczynski So. throws Tyler Gonigam Sr. throws, mid-dist.

Alex Groenewold Fr. sprints, mid-dist.

Bryan Herr Fr. jumps, sprints A.J. Hockings Fr. jumps, sprints Landen Hoffert Fr. jumps, sprints Errold Humphrey Sr. mid-distance Hunter Lewis So. throws Keegan Mooney Sr. throws Luca Nitschmann Sr. jumps, mid-dist.

Alex Peck Fr. throws Caje Peterson So. jumps, sprints Chase Pierce Sr. throws Jack Ritter Fr. jumps, sprints Hunter Schoff So. hurdles, jumps Bradley Sierens Fr. mid-distance Trevor Sights Fr. throws Michael Trujillo Sr. mid-distance Austin Wierzbicki Fr. jumps, sprints Outlook: The Storm lost several state qualifiers to graduation, and will look to rebuild a bit this season. Distance and throws have been where BV has hung its hat in recent years, and has several enthusiastic youngsters – 20 of the 28 athletes are freshmen or sophomores – willing to put in hard work and gain valuable experience.

Erie-Prophetstown Panthers Coach: Jon Schlagheck (2nd season) Postseason: Placed 6th at 1A state meet, & 2nd out of 15 teams at 1A Erie Sectional. Placed 3rd in 400 relay, 800 relay & 1,600 relay at state.

Roster Alex Abell Fr. distance Owen Abell Fr. hurdles Grant Ames Sr. sprints, HJ Jack Bauer Jr. sprints Dylan Binion Jr. hurdles, TJ Braeden Bonnell Sr. mid-distance Chris Bonnell Fr. distance, vault Seth Cameron Jr. sprints Jared Cole Sr. vault Noah Eads Jr. throws Jackie Ferguson Fr. sprints, vault Austin Freitag Jr. sprints Noah Friedrichsen Fr. throws Brad Green Jr. distance Jonah Green Jr. sprints, discus Zach Grier Fr. throws Logan Holland Jr. sprints, TJ Dylan Hollenbach Fr. throws Brad Hufman Jr. distance Brendon McKenna Fr. sprints Drew Misfeldt So. sprints, LJ Tyler Naftzger Jr. vault Andrew Pyse Sr. sprints Conner Reiley So. distance Travis Shipp Sr. mid-distance Kyle Skipper So. sprints, HJ Jesse Smith Sr. throws James Stratton So. throws Austin Sullivan So. throws Caden Swift Fr. sprints, vault Dvaree Thompson Sr. sprints Cody Weimer Jr. jumps, sprints Kody Wetzell So. sprints Lucas White Sr. mid-distance Outlook: A lot of familiar names from top-6 state finishes the past two seasons continue to dot the Panther roster, and this group hopes to keep the success rolling. Sprints and relays have been the key events, and also look for the jumps and pole vault to stay steadily strong. Binion is one of the best hurdlers around, and Ames and Thompson are speedy sprinters. The Panthers will need all that experience and talent, as they move up to Class 2A.

Morrison Mustangs Coach: Scott Rickels (13th season) Potseason: Placed 10th out of 15 teams at 1A Erie Sectional. Ryan Mayberry was 4th at state in 400, 6th at state in 200 & 8th at state in 100.

Roster Grant Abell Fr. throws Darrin Bielema So. sprints Noah Blacklock Sr. sprints Zach Cartwright Fr. hurdles, TJ Isaac Damhoff Fr. distance Aaron Deter Fr. sprints, LJ Reilly Dolan Fr. distance Griffin DuBois Fr. sprints, LJ Joe Eads So. distance Hunter Hamstra Sr. distance, HJ Triston Houzenga Sr. sprints Eric Kull So. sprints, LJ Derek Monague Sr. sprints Eric Mulnix Jr. distance Mason Muur Jr. distance Matt Nichols So. distance Jesse Peppers-Lilly So. throws Drew Screnock Sr. sprints, throws Grant Slater Fr. sprints, TJ Outlook: After losing their only state qualifier, the Mustangs hope to start a new chapter in Charleston this season.

They have an abundance of speed and athleticism, and hope that translates into on-track success. With only seven juniors and seniors, Morrison will rely on lots of fresh faces to score points and contribute heavily.

Newman Comets Coach: Andy Accardi (22nd season) Postseason: Placed 4th at 1A state meet, and won 1A Erie Sectional title.

Won seven medals, topped by Brady Rude’s 2nd place in 200 & 3rd place in long jump.

Roster Chris Ahlers So. distance Cade Bianchi Fr. sprints Easton Bianchi Fr. sprints Jared Brauman Jr. throws Quincy Coomes Sr. distance Karter Decker Fr. sprints, jumps Jax Fane Jr. sprints Drake Farster Fr. sprints Anthony Garcia Jr. throws Michael Healy Fr. throws Jacob Heiderscheit So. jumps Jeremy Henson Jr. sprints Matt Johnson Jr. throws Clay Jungerman Jr. mid-distance Nolan McGinn Sr. sprints, jumps Ethan Nash Jr. mid-distance James Nelson Sr. jumps Loren Newberry Sr. throws Max Oswalt Jr. throws Bryson Reyes Sr. distance Drew Rosengren Sr. mid-distance Brady Rude Jr. sprints, jumps Regan Todhunter Sr. hurdles, jumps Riley Vondra Fr. sprints Joey Widoff Fr. throws Chris Wilson Sr. throws John Wilson So. sprints Outlook: For most teams, the loss of a seven-time medalist like Rude would be a devastating blow. But after winning the 1A state title in 2013, and placing fourth last season, the Comets still have plenty of depth – and talent – to fill in while Rude recovers from a torn pectoral muscle. His absence will allow younger athletes to gain valuable experience, and if he can come back by the end of the season – or even if he can’t – look for Newman to once again be a force to be reckoned with in Charleston.

Philip Marruffo/pmarruffo@saukvalley.com

ABOVE: Newman’s Brady Rude won three individual medals at the 1A state meet last spring as a sophomore. A weight-lifting injury this winter might cost Rude the track season, but the Comets are confident they can replace the points lost without him in the lineup.

BELOW: Regan Todhunter competes in the 110-meter high hurdles during the 1A state prelims last spring in Charleston. Todhunter will be one of the leaders on the 2015 Comets’ team.

Rude’s season in limbo right now SLACK

CONTINUED FROM B1

“We’re not too worried; it just kind of makes everyone else work harder, because we know that if he can’t come back, then we’ll have to pick up that slack.”

That might as well be the mantra for the Comets this spring: Picking up the slack.

It’s a phrase repeated over and over when talking to the track team members.

Rude has been a part of four medaling relays the past 2 years, and also had three top-seven finishes individually last May in Charleston.

A weight room junkie, Rude was crushed when he sustained the injury – in the weight room, ironically – and couldn’t partake in his favorite activity for a few weeks.

But he’s back in his element now, and even though he can only seriously work out his legs, that hasn’t stopped him from being his usual leader in the weight room, providing encouragement for his teammates, and even designing workouts for some of his contemporaries.

“Brady’s in the weight room everyday; that’s the type of kid he is,” senior Regan Todhunter said. “His inspiration in there is a huge factor; he’s the guy who’s always making sure that we have to be in there and working hard.”

But Todhunter also points out that there actually is a silver lining with Rude out.

“It’s not the best thing for the team, for sure,” Todhunter said, “but it actually does help some of the guys who aren’t necessarily the top guys.

It gives us more experience and comfortability up and down the roster, and it makes everybody say, ‘Hey, I need to pull my weight and do my part to get points, and really help the team this year.’”

It’s a concept Rude supports completely.

He’s not only leading by example in the weight room, but he’s showing his support whenever he can at practices and meets. He doesn’t make it to every one, but he gets to as many as he can between his physical therapy and rehab sessions.

“He’s still there supporting us, still motivating us and pushing us to do well,” senior Bryson Reyes said. “It’s really nice to have him still being such a leader and teammate that he’s

always been.”

Reyes, a 4-year varsity distance runner in both track and cross country, is one of the guys who will have to pick up the slack. With classmates Quincy Coomes and Drew Rosengren, Reyes makes up three-fourths of the 3,200 relay team that placed ninth at last year’s state meet.

Throw in Todhunter, who was fifth in the state in the 110 hurdles, and McGinn, who placed eighth in the state in the triple jump, and the Comets are confident about their depth and leadership.

“Of course, we know we have a giant loss of points without Brady,” Reyes said, “and all of us know we just have to pick up the slack hardcore. But it’s not just one person, it’s everybody; we’re going to have to take a ‘Moneyball’ approach, put people in different positions to get the most possible points. It’s going to be tough, but I think it’s doable.”

Such an attitude comes as no surprise to coach Andy Accardi, who knows how special this group of athletes is. He’s seen their hard work pay off in Charleston the last two seasons.

He’s also not surprised at Rude’s mindset at last weekend’s Top Times indoor state meet, when the junior was chomping at the bit to get back out there.

“It was tough, but it’s also a lot of motivation to get back into it,” Rude said. “It was definitely hard to watch the guys I was running with last year, but it was nice to see some familiar faces and get back in that atmosphere again.”

“He was sitting there saying, ‘Oh man, I want to run so bad,’” Accardi said. “I told him just to give it time. We’re going to do what’s best for

Brady, look out for his best interest. The team will be fine; we’re better with him, but we’re never going to sacrifice his health, and we’ve got guys who will step up and fill in for him.”

Accardi said he will not let Rude back into practices or meets until he gets an all-clear from the doctor, but Rude said there’s no timetable yet for that.

“Everything is kind of play it by ear,” Rude said. “My physical therapy is going real well, but ultimately it’s up to the doctor. As far as running, I see it as a possibility; I’m not going to give up hope until the day comes when they say I can’t, but it’s all just hope right now.

“But I have so much confidence in these guys, and the leadership of these seniors. I’m not worried about it at all, because this is still a great team with or without me.”

And while Rude’s teammates are also holding out that hope they’ll get their key cog back in time for the postseason, they’re also using his dedication – and his plight – as motivation for themselves.

“We’re definitely all in support of him, and we obviously want him to get back,” McGinn said, “but at the same time, we don’t want him to force himself to come back if he’s not ready. We just want to do a good job for him if he’s not going to be there, and hopefully he will be by the end of the season.”

“It would be a a real huge thing,” Todhunter said, “but we’re not really having our hearts set on it. If he can come back, that’s great; if he can’t, we’re going to work hard and see what we can do to still try and get it done.”

B8 • SV Weekend

BASEBALL

Saturday, April 4, 2015

LOCALS GIVE THEIR THOUGHTS ON 2015 MLB SEASON Local baseball and softball athletes and coaches weighed in on their favorite teams and players, as well as their World Series predictions. Here are their responses:

Esteban Sosa, Sterling junior Favorite team: The Cubs. They’ve just been my team for all my life.

Favorite player: Mike Trout. I just love the way he plays the game. He plays the game real well, and plays it the right way. He always hustles, and he’s never scared at the plate.

Better chance at the Esteban World Series this seaSosa son, Cubs or Sox: The Sterling Cubs, but only because I senior hope so. I was a little upset [Kris] Bryant won’t be on the roster right away, but they’re my team.

World Series winner: I’m not sure.

It’s usually wide open, so I have no idea.

Luke Moore, Sterling junior

Favorite player: Clayton Kershaw, because he does what I want to do on the mound. He is always calm no matter what.

Better chance at the World Series this season, Cubs or Sox: Probably the Cubs. They’re a lot younger.

Logan Pillars, Rock Falls sophomore Favorite team: Yankees. I have always liked them. My dad has always been a big fan, and he got me into them when I was young, and it just stuck.

Favorite player: Buster Posey on the Giants. He’s a very good, smart hitter, and plays the game well. He’s a great catcher, and knows what to do in every situation.

Better chance at the World Series this season, Cubs or Sox: Oh man, probably the Sox. The made some moves in the offseason and have more talent now, while the Cubs have a lot of good Logan prospects.

Pillars Rock Falls World Series winner: sophomore It’s always up in the air.

Jacob Mammosser, Rock Falls senior Favorite team: The Cardinals. I’ve always been a Cardinals fan, and so is my dad.

Favorite player: My favorite player is Ozzie Smith, because of his back flips every inning.

Better chance at the World Series this season, Cubs or Sox: The Jacob Mammosser Sox, because the Cubs Rock Falls are the worst team in the league. senior World Series winner: I think the Cardinals will win.

Cal Jarrett, Dixon senior Favorite team: The Cardinals. I’ve always liked them.

Favorite player: Adam Wainwright of the Cardinals. I just like the way he pitches. It used to be [Albert] Pujols, but he left to go to the Angels.

Better chance at the World Series this season, Cubs or Sox: I think the Cubs are closer, but Cal they could always screw Jarrett it up.

Dixon World Series winner: senior My picks are the Nationals and Red Sox to make it there this season.

Taylor Brubaker, Oregon senior Favorite team: My favorite team is the Cubs Favorite player: My favorite players have been a tie between Mark Buehrle and Mike Trout. Mark Buehrle because he was never an overpowering pitcher. He throws high 80s and has a nasty curve.

Better chance at the World Series this seaTaylor son, Cubs or Sox: I would Brubaker honestly say the Cubs have Oregon a better chance because senior in my opinion, [they have] better pitching, and all their young talent like Bryant and Soler. Plus Jon Lester came in to be a leader, and Joe Maddon is the new manager.

World Series winner: I think the World Series will be the Nationals because of their strong pitching, vs. the Angels because of strong pitching and a great lineup. I think the Angels will win it because of their offensive abilities.

Madalyn Wilson, Newman sophomore Favorite team: The White Sox, because they’re different. Most people around here like the Cubs, and I just think the White Sox have it more put together.

Favorite player: Babe Ruth, because he was really good at hitting home runs.

I really wish I could be as good of a home run hitter as he was.

Better chance at the World Series this season, Cubs or Sox: The White Sox, because the Cubs have a really bad reputation to let people down. I think the White Sox could definitely pull it off.

World Series winner: The Cardinals and the White Sox. The Cardinals are usually a very good team, and the White Sox could definitely upset people.

Erin Stroup, Sterling junior Favorite team: The Chicago White Sox are my favorite team, mostly because I’ve grown up watching them with my family. They’re really fun to watch.

Favorite player: Paul Konerko. I’ve liked him for a really long time. After they won the World Series, Erin we went to a White Sox Stroup game, and he signed a ball Sterling for me. That made me like junior him a little bit more.

Better chance at the World Series this season, Cubs or Sox: The White Sox, because they’re better than the Cubs.

World Series winner: The Cardinals have a pretty good chance of going back, and I’m hoping for the White Sox.

Becki Edmondson, Sterling softball coach Favorite team: I’m a Cub fan because I have always gone for the underdog. As long as I’ve been alive, the Cubs have never done well, so I’m always going for the underdog.

Favorite player: Terry Pendleton, when he was an Atlanta Brave. It was because when I was little, we didn’t have a lot of channels on cable, so we had TBS, he was the third baseman, and I also had the same number (9) as him. We had that bond.

Better chance at the World Series this season, Cubs or Sox: Clearly the Cubs. In our household, it’s a split household, and the Cubs are going to win just because it’s my year to have something good happen.

World Series winner: Hopefully the Cubs and the Yankees. The Yankees have that dynasty, and the Cubs are coming from behind. This is their year to prove it to everybody that they can win.

Atmosphere different for baseball than other sports REPAIR

but almost all of them have nothing to do with the way it is played. Most of the proposals address But is this an issue in the way regionals and high school? sectionals are handled “I don’t think so,” Rock with regards to game start Falls’ Logan Pillars said times, amount of time after a game Tuesday. between games, as well “Umpires do a good job as the brand of baseball of keeping the game on used. track. There’s not much In August of 2012, howdown time.” ever, a motion to increase “I think that’s what the number of uniformed sets baseball apart from players allowed on the other sports,” Sterling bench was approved. coach Nick Pepper said.

Now 27 players can be in “Not having a time limit uniform. is unique. You just go But this wasn’t a reacout and play the game. I tionary proposal to don’t really think there’s a handle a sudden influx problem with it.” of players into the sport.

Coaches and players The reasoning was geared from across the area toward teams being answered this question, allowed to bring up playand the range of answers ers from lower levels and were as slim as some of have them dress for postthe rosters. Most said season games. baseball is in a good “Mostly everything is place, despite what the about regionals and the small roster sizes say. postseason,” Hopkins “The numbers come in said. “In the event we do waves,” Pepper said. “We get a rule change, we talk have a lot of kids playing about it, and then it can in the lower levels. Some even go to a national level years it’s down a bit, to see if it’s what we want. while others we have full But mainly, I think everyrosters.” one is OK with where the From a player’s perspecsport is, and where it’s tive, most seem to agree headed.” that because baseball From a coaching peris unique regarding the Philip Marruffo/pmarruffo@saukvalley.com spective, Hopkins may physical demands, it Rock Falls’ Logan Pillars charges a ground ball during a game earlier this season. Pillars is part of a Rock be a little biased, because seems as if the game has Falls baseball program with a rich tradition, which helps keeps players and the community excited for high his team has traditionally to be played at a young school baseball. Not all schools in Illinois have that sort of support for baseball. been able to field a comage for it to stick. plete team with a steady Dixon’s Cal Jarrett, sport that has been com- faces. It doesn’t work factor,” Springman said. contact that other sports amount of reserves. But a Cincinnati baseball mitting robbery on prothen. Most of the kids are “Our numbers are down have,” Mighell said. “But he also knows that some recruit, has played in spective baseball players off on vacation, or playthis season, and it’s disit’s a sport where you schools have trouble fillyouth leagues and travel for years. ing travel ball with their appointing. But the bright really have to have a skill ing out complete rosters. leagues growing up. He “Track is more of a own teams. I wouldn’t say side is we have a lot of to be successful. Not just Marquette has an said he had to take several social sport than basethere’s a problem with young players coming out anyone can hit a ball. enrollment of 186 stuweeks off of baseball to ball,” Jarrett said. “People high school baseball. Kids to play.

There’s this individual dents, but the baseball avoid being burned out like to be with their are definitely interested.”

“I don’t know if there is aspect of you trying to program is thriving.

He after playing 50-game friends. Track sounds like Maybe Chappell is a fix. It’s just the way it have a good at-bat perhas 20 players on the schedules as a kid. As a a lot of work, but you get thinking with his heart. goes sometimes.” sonally, but it all matters varsity roster, or about 11 result, he has watched to socialize with more Kids might be interested, Cody Mighell, a Dixon to the team. Just about percent of the school’s friends leave the sport people.” but they might also be football and baseball everything you do can population. Sterling because they weren’t sucSo what if baseball is interested more in other, player, agreed. He said help or hurt your team. cessful at it right away. moved to the summer to more glamorous sports. that some of the prob“I love it for that reason, meanwhile, has 15 players on its varsity roster in “Baseball in high school avoid conflicts? Iowa’s Zach Springman, a lems stem from basebut a lot of kids either a school with an enrollis tricky,” Jarrett said. “To high school system does Sterling junior third base- ball taking a backseat give up on it quickly, or ment of 1,010 students, be successful here, you baseball this way. Could it man, emerged as a strong to sports like football, are too far behind skillhave to get a hit about work here? basketball player for the because it isn’t as flashy wise to pick it up at a var- or about 1 percent of the school’s population. four out of 10 times, Rock Falls baseball Warriors in the winter at a given moment. sity level if they haven’t “I’ve been doing this a and you’re great. In the coach Donnie Chappell months. His play this sea“But that’s the beauty of been playing.” long time, and what I see majors, its about 3, and doesn’t think so. son will likely earn him a baseball,” Mighell said.

Ottawa Marquette is it’s all about communiyou’re an All-Star. It’s “We’ve always had prominent role on next “While baseball can be baseball coach Todd ties,” Hopkins said. “Ottadefinitely a skill sport.” pretty good numbers,” season’s team. very individualistic, every Hopkins recently won wa has traditionally been Baseball can be frustrat- Chappell explained. “It’s Springman said that the one of the nine players his 400th game as a high a baseball community. ing. So frustrating that just the way it is here. Our atmosphere at basketball on the field, as well as the school coach. He’s been I’ve never had problems kids leave because they youth leagues are gengames is much different batter, play an integral around the sport for getting players to play.” aren’t hitting the ball as erally full, and we have than that of a baseball role into the outcome of a years, and also serves “I hope more kids start well as they think they plenty of players that game, and because of game. The team depends on the IHSA’s baseball coming out,” Sterling’s should. And because the want to come out for the that, kids are drawn to heavily on what each advisory committee.

Esteban Sosa said. “It’s game is played in the team. those sports. player does in the field, Each season, the the best game in the spring, other sports pull “In the summer ses“I don’t know if it’s so and whether the batter committee receives sevworld if you play it the at the attention and time sions, sometimes I’ll be much of a baseball thing, can put the ball in play. eral proposed rules or of athletes. Track is a right way.” looking at three to six but more of an excitement “It doesn’t have the changes for the game, CONTINUED FROM B1

Saturday, April 4, 2015

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL

SV Weekend • B9

B10 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

FRIDAY’S SCOREBOARD

NBA | BULLS 88, PISTONS 82

Double-double machine Gasol helps Bull hold on for win over Pistons

BY BRIAN SANDALOW Associated Press

CHICAGO – Pau Gasol was simply trying to redeem himself for two mistakes. He did more than that, and helped the Chicago Bulls get a big win.

Gasol had 26 points and 10 rebounds for his 50th double-double of the season, helping the Bulls beat the Detroit Pistons 88-82 on Friday night. Gasol became the first Bulls player to reach 50 doubledoubles since Charles Oakley had 53 during the 1986-87 season.

Gasol secured the feat – and the win – with 5.7 seconds to play when he had a tip-dunk of Taj Gibson’s miss and got fouled by Andre Drummond. Gasol hit the free throw, giving Chicago a four-point lead and finishing an important win for the Bulls.

That followed a sequence when Drummond blocked Gasol’s shot before beating the Bulls’ big man for a layup to cut Chicago’s lead to 83-82.

“Just trying to make up for two bad plays,” Gasol said.

Jimmy Butler scored 18 points, and Joakim Noah added nine rebounds and 10 assists for the Bulls, who won for the fourth time in five games.

Chicago pulled ahead of Toronto for third place in the Eastern Conference after the Raptors’ loss to

Saturday, April 4, 2015

College baseball Friday’s results at Sauk Valley C.C., Dixon Game 1

ELGIN 11, SAUK VALLEY 4 Elgin 003 411 2 — 11 10 1 Sauk Valley 000 002 2 — 4 5 3 W – Ryan Sitter (2-0). L – Fabian Del Real (1-3).

ELGIN (12-6) Kurt Barbeau cf 4-1-1, D.J. Varney rf 3-23, Blake Alexander 3b 2-1-0, Sean Dunne dh 5-0-2, Ryan Thomas c 2-0-0, Brandon Larkin-Guilfoyle 2b 4-0-0, Anthony Bragg 1b 3-1-0, Brett Renner lf/rf 2-2-1, Josh Hauser ss 4-3-2, Ryan Sitter p 0-0-0, Jake Weede lf 2-1-1, Josh Perkins p 0-0-0.

Totals: 31-11-10.

Sitter (5 IP, 0 R, 1 H, 6 SO, 1 BB), Perkins (2 IP, 4 R, 4 ER, 4 H, 2 SO, 2 BB, 1 HBP) and Thomas. 2B – Hauser. 3B – Varney, Dunne. RBI – Varney 2, Alexander 2, Dunne 5, Hauser. CS – Thomas. E – Alexander. LOB – 8.

SAUK VALLEY (3-13) Wyatt Nale rf 4-2-2, Nick Panzica ss 4-1-2, Derek Kennell 1b 3-0-0, Justin Hitchcock dh 2-0-0, Evan Smith 3b 2-0-0, Oscar Castro c 3-0-0, Frankie Perino 2b 3-0-0, Bryant Lilly lf 3-0-1, Reyes Maldonado cf 2-0-0, Fabian Del Real p 0-0-0, Nick Jehle p 0-0-0, Kollin Burn pr 0-0-0, Kieffer Znaniecki p 0-0-0, Josh Oliveras p 0-0-0.

Totals: 26-4-5.

Del Real (3 2/3 IP, 7 R, 4 ER, 7 H, 2 SO, 2 BB, 1 HBP), Jehle (2 1/3 IP, 2 R, 2 ER, 3 H, 2 BB), Znaniecki (1/3 IP, 2 R, 1 ER, 0 H, 2 BB, 1 HBP), Oliveras (2/3 IP, 0 R, 0 H, 2 SO, 1 BB) and Castro. 2B – Nale, Panzica.

RBI – Panzica 3. E – Maldonado 2, Perino.

LOB – 5.

Game 2

ELGIN 4, SAUK VALLEY 3, 6 inn.

AP

Bulls forward Pau Gasol (16) dunks against Pistons guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (left) and center Andre Drummond during their game Friday in Chicago. Gasol recorded his 50th double-double of the season, and the Bulls won 88-82. the Brooklyn Nets.

“It was an ugly win, but we found a way,” Noah said. “That’s important.”

The Bulls got the win despite another strong performance from Drummond.

Reggie Jackson had 22 points and nine assists for Detroit, while Drummond had 14 points, 22 rebounds and six blocks.

Kentavious CaldwellPope added 14 points as the Pistons fell to 24-24 since starting the season 5-23. The Pistons had won five of seven, but

Star of the game: Pau Gasol, Bulls, 26 points, 10 rebounds Up next: Bulls at Cavaliers, 2:30 p.m. Sunday TV/Radio: ABC/1000AM entered play five games out of the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Drummond became the first player in Pistons history to have at least 1,000 points, 1,000 rebounds and 100 blocks in consecutive seasons.

NHL | BLACKHAWKS 4, SABRES 3

Elgin 121 000 — 4 8 4 Sauk Valley 101 100 — 3 6 3 W – Andrew Wimberly (2-0). L – Bryant Lilly (1-2).

ELGIN Kurt Barbeau cf 4-0-1, Tyler Kalusa rf 4-12, Blake Alexander 3b 1-0-0, Sean Dunne lf 2-0-1, Tom Long c 3-0-1, Jake Weede dh 3-1-0, Christian Kuzemka 1b 2-1-0, Nick Binder 2b 2-1-1, Josh Hauser ss 3-0-2, Andrew Wimberly p 0-0-0, Anthony Bragg 1b 0-0-0, Kevin Borst p 0-0-0. Totals: 24-4-8.

Wimberly (5 IP, 3 R, 2 ER, 6 H, 4 SO, 1 BB), Borst (1 IP, 0 R, 0 H, 1 SO, HBP) and Long.

3B – Hauser. RBI – Kalusa 2, Long, Hauser. SB – Dunne, CS – Barbeau, Hauser. E – Binder, Alexander 2, Long. LOB – 7.

SAUK VALLEY Angel Vega dh 3-1-1, Wyatt Nale cf 3-1-1, Justin Hitchcock 1b 3-0-0, Derek Kennell lf 2-0-0, Mario Pacheco 3b 3-0-0, Josh Oliveras 2b 3-0-1, Nick Jehle c 3-0-1, Frankie Perino ss 2-1-1, Kollin Burn rf 3-0-1, Bryant Lilly p 0-0-0. Totals: 25-3-6.

Lilly (6 IP, 4 R, 3 ER, 8 H, 4 SO, 4 BB, HBP) and Jehle. RBI – Vega, Pacheco, Hitchcock. SB – Nale 2. SAC – Nale, Perino. E – Nale, Oliveras, Pacheco. LOB – 7.

College tennis Friday’s results at Glen Ellyn

DUPAGE 7, SAUK VALLEY 2 Singles 1. Alex Knack (Sauk) def. Brandon West, 6-2, 6-2 2. Joe Irmis (DuPage) def. Brady Reuter, 6-3, 3-6, 10-7 3. Allen Bul (DuPage) def. Julius Alvarado, 6-0, 6-2 4. Kevin Osborn (DuPage) def. Eric Ardis, 6-0, 6-2 5. Danny Simmons (DuPage) def. Jonathon Downing, 6-1, 6-0 6. Grant Gabel (DuPage) rec. forfeit Doubles 1. Alex Knack, Brady Reuter (Sauk) def.

Brandon West, Joe Irmis, 6-3, 6-3 2. Allen Bul, Kevin Osborn (DuPage) def.

Julius Alvarado, Jonathon Downing, 6-0, 6-1 3. DuPage rec. forfeit

Men’s basketball NCAA Tournament FINAL FOUR At Lucas Oil Stadium Indianapolis National Semifinals Saturday’s games Michigan State (27-11) vs. Duke (33-4), 5:09 p.m. (TBS) Kentucky (38-0) vs. Wisconsin (35-3), 7:49 p.m. (TBS) National Championship Monday’s game Semifinal winners, 8 p.m. (CBS)

Women’s basketball

AP

Sabres goaltender Anders Lindback (35) tries to deflect a puck from Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews (19) during their game Friday in Buffalo, N.Y. Chicago won 4-3.

Toews forming good habits Center scores twice in rallying Blackhawks to win

BY JOHN WAWROW AP Hockey Writer

BUFFALO, N.Y. – Jonathan Toews is making erasing late-game Chicago Blackhawks’ deficits a regular habit.

The Blackhawks captain scored goals 47 seconds apart – including the winner with 56 seconds left – to spark a 4-3 win over the last-place Buffalo Sabres on Friday night.

Toews’ latest clutch performance came 5 days after he capped a twogoal, third-period comeback by scoring with 31 seconds left in a 4-3 win over Winnipeg, his hometown.

“He’s had a big, big week,” coach Joel Quenneville said. “He’s a special player, and the bigger the stage, the bigger the response.”

With the Blackhawks in jeopardy of squandering a 2-1 lead to the NHL’s worst team, and a chance to inch closer to Central Division-leading Nashville, Toews came up big by scoring his 27th and 28th goals of

Star of the game: Jonathan Toews, Blackhawks, 2 goals Up next: Blues at Blackhawks, 6:30 p.m.

Sunday TV/Radio: NBCSN/720-AM the season.

He tied the score with 1:43 left with a gritty effort in front. After Buffalo goalie Anders Lindback stopped Duncan Keith’s blast from the blue line, the rebound trickled in front, where Toews shoveled it in under the goalie’s glove hand while he was falling forward.

That got a large crowd of Blackhawks’ fans in Buffalo on their feet.

They cheered even louder when Toews scored again to cap a two-on-one break. Brandon Saad drove into the Sabres’ zone and cut into the middle before dropping a no-look pass to Toews, who snapped a shot just inside the right post.

“Obviously, we’re not too happy with the way we let up control of the game halfway through,” Toews said. “Maybe we got a little bit too comfortable.”

Chicago was playing on consecutive nights after a playoff-berth-clinching 3-1 home win over Vancouver.

The Blackhawks (4824-6) have now won four straight, and vaulted a point ahead of secondplace St. Louis and a point behind Nashville entering the final week of the season.

Keith and Patrick Sharp also scored for Chicago, which set a franchise record for road wins by improving its record to 24-14-1.

Marcus Foligno scored twice, and Johan Larsson also scored for Buffalo.

“A bounce here and there,” Foligno said. “It ends up a two-on-one, and Jonathan Toews going down one-on-one with the goalie. He’s going to put it in 10 times out of 10.”

NCAA Tournament FINAL FOUR At Tampa, Fla. National Semifinals Sunday’s games Notre Dame (35-2) vs. South Carolina (34-2), 5:30 p.m. (ESPN) Connecticut (36-1) vs. Maryland (34-2), 7:30 p.m. (ESPN) National Championship Tuesday’s game Semifinal winners, 7:30 p.m. (ESPN)

NBA EASTERN CONFERENCE z-Atlanta x-Cleveland x-Chicago y-Toronto x-Washington Milwaukee Brooklyn Miami Boston Indiana Charlotte Detroit Orlando Philadelphia New York

W 56 49 46 45 43 38 35 34 34 33 32 29 23 18 14

L 19 27 30 31 33 38 40 41 42 43 43 47 53 58 62

Pct .747 .645 .605 .592 .566 .500 .467 .453 .447 .434 .427 .382 .303 .237 .184

GB — 7½ 10½ 11½ 13½ 18½ 21 22 22½ 23½ 24 27½ 33½ 38½ 42½

WESTERN CONFERENCE

W L Pct GB z-Golden State 62 13 .827 — x-Houston 52 24 .684 10½ x-Memphis 52 24 .684 10½ x-Portland 48 26 .649 13½ x-L.A. Clippers 50 26 .658 12½ x-San Antonio 50 26 .658 12½ Dallas 46 30 .605 16½ Oklahoma City 42 34 .553 20½ New Orleans 40 34 .541 21½ Phoenix 38 38 .500 24½ Utah 34 41 .453 28 Denver 28 48 .368 34½ Sacramento 26 48 .351 35½ L.A. Lakers 20 54 .270 41½ Minnesota 16 60 .211 46½ x-clinched playoff spot; y-clinched division; z-clinched conference Friday’s results Washington 101, New York 87 Indiana 93, Charlotte 74 Milwaukee 110, Boston 101 Brooklyn 114, Toronto 109 Chicago 88, Detroit 82 Memphis 100, Oklahoma City 92 Orlando 97, Minnesota 84 San Antonio 123, Denver 93 New Orleans at Sacramento, late Portland at L.A. Lakers, late Saturday’s games Philadelphia at Charlotte, 6 p.m.

Brooklyn at Atlanta, 6:30 p.m.

Boston at Toronto, 6:30 p.m.

Miami at Detroit, 6:30 p.m.

Washington at Memphis, 7 p.m.

Golden State at Dallas, 7:30 p.m.

Orlando at Milwaukee, 7:30 p.m.

L.A. Clippers at Denver, 8 p.m.

Utah at Phoenix, 9 p.m.

New Orleans at Portland, 9 p.m.

Sunday’s games Houston at Oklahoma City, noon Chicago at Cleveland, 2:30 p.m.

Miami at Indiana, 5 p.m.

Golden State at San Antonio, 6 p.m.

Philadelphia at New York, 6:30 p.m.

Utah at Sacramento, 8 p.m.

L.A. Clippers at L.A. Lakers, 8:30 p.m.

American League

Friday’s box score

BULLS 88, PISTONS 82 DETROIT (82) C.Butler 1-5 2-2 5, Tolliver 3-8 0-0 9, Drummond 5-12 4-6 14, Jackson 9-15 4-4 22, Caldwell-Pope 6-16 0-0 14, Anthony 0-1 1-2 1, Williams 1-3 0-0 2, Meeks 1-3 0-0 2, Lucas III 4-6 1-1 9, Prince 2-5 0-0 4.

Totals 32-74 12-15 82.

CHICAGO (88) Dunleavy 2-6 2-2 7, Gasol 11-19 4-5 26, Noah 3-5 0-0 6, Brooks 2-9 0-0 5, J.Butler 6-16 5-6 18, Gibson 4-13 2-2 10, Snell 0-3 0-0 0, Moore 2-7 0-0 5, Mirotic 3-7 5-6 11.

Totals 33-85 18-21 88.

Detroit 26 9 24 23 — 82 Chicago 25 22 12 29 — 88 3s–Detroit 6-19 (Tolliver 3-6, Caldwell-Pope 2-7, C.Butler 1-2, Meeks 0-1, Williams 0-1, Jackson 0-2), Chicago 4-17 (Moore 1-2, J.Butler 1-2, Brooks 1-4, Dunleavy 1-4, Snell 0-2, Mirotic 0-3). Rebounds–Detroit 46 (Drummond 22), Chicago 54 (Gasol 10).

Assists–Detroit 14 (Jackson 9), Chicago 18 (Noah 10). Fouls–Detroit 20 (Drummond out), Chicago 15. Technicals–Gibson, Chicago Coach Thibodeau.

NHL EASTERN CONFERENCE y-N.Y. Rangers x-Montreal x-Tampa Bay Washington N.Y. Islanders Detroit Pittsburgh Boston Ottawa Florida Columbus Philadelphia New Jersey Carolina Toronto Buffalo

W 49 47 47 43 45 40 42 40 39 36 38 31 32 28 29 22

L 21 22 24 25 27 24 24 25 26 27 35 29 33 38 43 48

OT 7 10 8 10 6 13 11 13 12 15 4 17 13 11 6 8

Pts 105 104 102 96 96 93 95 93 90 87 80 79 77 67 64 52

GF 234 209 251 232 238 223 211 207 222 198 214 202 173 177 204 155

GA 181 182 206 194 219 211 194 200 205 211 237 220 199 214 249 262

WESTERN CONFERENCE

W L OT Pts GF GA y-Anaheim 50 22 7 107 232 217 x-Nashville 47 22 9 103 224 193 x-Chicago 48 24 6 102 224 180 Vancouver 45 28 5 95 225 211 x-St. Louis 47 23 7 101 233 191 Calgary 42 29 7 91 230 208 Minnesota 44 26 7 95 221 189 Los Angeles 38 25 14 90 209 194 Winnipeg 39 26 12 90 217 204 San Jose 38 30 9 85 217 216 Dallas 37 30 10 84 239 248 Colorado 35 30 12 82 207 218 Edmonton 23 42 13 59 188 268 Arizona 23 46 8 54 161 256 Note: Two points for a win, one point for overtime loss. x-clinched playoff spot; y-clinched division Friday’s results New Jersey 3, Montreal 2, SO Chicago 4, Buffalo 3 St. Louis at Dallas, 7:30 p.m.

Colorado at Anaheim, late Arizona at San Jose, late Saturday’s games Philadelphia at Carolina, noon Pittsburgh at Columbus, 1 p.m.

Vancouver at Winnipeg, 2 p.m.

Toronto at Boston, 6 p.m.

Washington at Ottawa, 6 p.m.

Tampa Bay at Florida, 6 p.m.

Buffalo at N.Y. Islanders, 6 p.m.

New Jersey at N.Y. Rangers, 6 p.m.

Detroit at Minnesota, 6 p.m.

Dallas at Nashville, 7 p.m.

San Jose at Arizona, 8 p.m.

Calgary at Edmonton, 9 p.m.

Colorado at Los Angeles, 9 p.m.

Sunday’s games Pittsburgh at Philadelphia, 11:30 a.m.

Washington at Detroit, 4 p.m.

Montreal at Florida, 4 p.m.

Ottawa at Toronto, 6:30 p.m.

St. Louis at Chicago, 6:30 p.m.

Friday’s box score

BLACKHAWKS 4, SABRES 3 Chicago 2 0 2 — 4 Buffalo 0 1 2 — 3 First Period–1, Chicago, Keith 10 (Saad, Shaw), 2:16. 2, Chicago, Sharp 15 (Rundblad, Richards), 8:36. Penalties–Kruger, Chi (tripping), 13:26; Larsson, Buf (boarding), 19:59.

Second Period–3, Buffalo, Foligno 7 (Ristolainen), 13:10. Penalties–Deslauriers, Buf (delay of game), 6:51; Desjardins, Chi, major (fighting), 12:16; Strachan, Buf, major (fighting), 12:16; Shaw, Chi (tripping), 14:13; Zadorov, Buf (slashing), 17:30.

Third Period–4, Buffalo, Larsson 5 (Ristolainen, Ennis), 5:29 (pp). 5, Buffalo, Foligno 8 (Gionta, Ristolainen), 12:42. 6, Chicago, Toews 27 (Shaw), 18:17. 7, Chicago, Toews 28 (Saad, Hossa), 19:04.

Penalties–Timonen, Chi (tripping), 4:21; Versteeg, Chi (slashing), 11:14; Bogosian, Buf (cross-checking), 11:14.

Shots on Goal–Chicago 12-12-12–36.

Buffalo 11-16-11–38.

Power-play opportunities–Chicago 0 of 3; Buffalo 1 of 3.

Goalies–Chicago, Darling 9-3-0 (38 shots-35 saves). Buffalo, Lindback 5-14-2 (36-32).

MLB Spring training AMERICAN LEAGUE Oakland Kansas City Toronto Boston Tampa Bay Houston Los Angeles New York Minnesota Cleveland Baltimore Chicago Seattle Detroit Texas

W 22 19 18 16 15 12 14 16 13 14 12 11 11 11 9

L 9 10 13 12 12 11 14 16 15 17 18 17 17 20 19

NATIONAL LEAGUE

Monday’s games Blue Jays at Yankees, 12:05 p.m.

Twins at Tigers, 12:08 p.m.

Red Sox at Phillies, 2:05 p.m.

Orioles at Rays, 2:10 p.m.

White Sox at Royals, 3:10 p.m.

Angels at Mariners, 3:10 p.m.

Indians at Astros, 6:10 p.m.

Rangers at Athletics, 9:05 p.m.

National League

Sunday’s game Cardinals (Wainwright 0-0) at Cubs (Lester 0-0), 7:05 p.m.

Monday’s games Rockies at Brewers, 1:10 p.m.

Red Sox at Phillies, 2:05 p.m.

Mets at Nationals, 3:05 p.m.

Braves at Marlins, 3:10 p.m.

Pirates at Reds, 3:10 p.m.

Padres at Dodgers, 3:10 p.m.

Giants at Diamondbacks, 9:10 p.m.

Golf PGA – Houston Open Thursday At Golf Club of Houston, The Tournament Humble, Texas Purse: $5.9 million Yardage: 7,441 ; Par: 72 (36-36) First Round Scott Piercy 30-33—63 -9 J.B. Holmes 35-30—65 -7 Alex Cejka 33-32—65 -7 Luke Guthrie 33-33—66 -6 Phil Mickelson 35-31—66 -6 Charles Howell III 34-32—66 -6 Shawn Stefani 34-32—66 -6 Graham DeLaet 32-35—67 -5 Hunter Mahan 33-34—67 -5 Victor Dubuisson 34-33—67 -5 Andrew Putnam 36-31—67 -5 Matt Kuchar 33-34—67 -5 Sergio Garcia 35-32—67 -5 Alex Prugh 33-34—67 -5 Cameron Tringale 32-36—68 -4 Paul Casey 33-35—68 -4 Michael Putnam 34-34—68 -4 Patrick Reed 31-37—68 -4 Jonas Blixt 35-33—68 -4 Michael Thompson 33-35—68 -4 John Huh 34-34—68 -4 Chez Reavie 33-35—68 -4 Austin Cook 37-31—68 -4 Scott Brown 34-34—68 -4 Chris Stroud 34-34—68 -4 S.J. Park 31-37—68 -4 Kelvin Day 36-32—68 -4 Aaron Baddeley 33-36—69 -3 Freddie Jacobson 33-36—69 -3 Chad Collins 33-36—69 -3 Jordan Spieth 35-34—69 -3 Justin Rose 36-33—69 -3 Charley Hoffman 35-34—69 -3 Mark Wilson 35-34—69 -3 Ben Crane 34-35—69 -3 Jarrod Lyle 33-36—69 -3 Blake Adams 34-35—69 -3 Johnson Wagner 36-33—69 -3 Tom Hoge 34-35—69 -3 David Hearn 33-36—69 -3 Jhonattan Vegas 35-34—69 -3 Rickie Fowler 33-36—69 -3 Ryan Moore 35-34—69 -3 Russell Henley 35-34—69 -3 Nick Watney 37-32—69 -3 Bryce Molder 35-34—69 -3 Tony Finau 35-34—69 -3 Cody Gribble 34-35—69 -3 Sam Saunders 33-36—69 -3 LPGA – ANA Inspiration Friday At Mission Hills Country Club, Dinah Shore Tournament Course Rancho Mirage, Calif.

Purse: $2.5 million Yardage: 6,769; Par: 72 Second Round a-denotes amateur Sei Young Kim 72-65—137 -7 Morgan Pressel 67-72—139 -5 Brittany Lincicome 72-68—140 -4 Catriona Matthew 71-69—140 -4 Jenny Shin 71-69—140 -4 Stacy Lewis 72-69—141 -3 Angela Stanford 72-69—141 -3 Lexi Thompson 72-69—141 -3 Shanshan Feng 71-70—141 -3 Moriya Jutanugarn 71-70—141 -3 Mirim Lee 71-70—141 -3 So Yeon Ryu 69-72—141 -3 Caroline Hedwall 75-67—142 -2 Danielle Kang 75-67—142 -2 Mi Hyang Lee 74-68—142 -2 Pat Hurst 71-71—142 -2 Alison Lee 71-71—142 -2 Pernilla Lindberg 71-71—142 -2 Na Yeon Choi 70-72—142 -2 Charley Hull 70-72—142 -2 Ai Miyazato 68-74—142 -2 Sandra Gal 75-68—143 -1 Inbee Park 74-69—143 -1 Wei Ling Hsu 73-70—143 -1 Eun-Hee Ji 73-70—143 -1 Christina Kim 73-70—143 -1 Katie Burnett 72-71—143 -1 Anna Nordqvist 71-72—143 -1 Amy Yang 71-72—143 -1 Ilhee Lee 76-68—144 E Stephanie L Meadow 76-68—144 E Suzann Pettersen 76-68—144 E Amy Anderson 74-70—144 E Maria Hernandez 74-70—144 E Marina Alex 73-71—144 E Ha Na Jang 72-72—144 E Pornanong Phatlum 72-72—144 E Ariya Jutanugarn 71-73—144 E Lydia Ko 71-73—144 E Meena Lee 71-73—144 E Juli Inkster 69-75—144 E

Transactions Pct .710 .655 .581 .571 .556 .522 .500 .500 .464 .452 .400 .393 .393 .355 .321

W L Pct Los Angeles 16 10 .615 New York 19 12 .613 San Diego 17 12 .586 Pittsburgh 15 12 .556 Arizona 17 14 .548 St. Louis 13 11 .542 Miami 14 12 .538 Cincinnati 15 13 .536 Colorado 16 14 .533 Chicago 15 15 .500 Atlanta 14 17 .452 Philadelphia 13 17 .433 Milwaukee 12 16 .429 Washington 11 15 .423 San Francisco 11 21 .344 Note: Split-squad games count in the standings; games against non-major league teams do not.

Friday’s results Tampa Bay 11, Detroit 5 Washington 8, N.Y. Yankees 2 Milwaukee 6, Cleveland 3 Baltimore 3, Atlanta 2 Minnesota 5, Boston 2 Philadelphia 7, Pittsburgh 5 Cincinnati 2, Toronto 0 Kansas City 11, Houston 1 N.Y. Mets 5, Texas 0 Chicago Cubs at Arizona, late Colorado vs. Seattle at Peoria, Ariz., late L.A. Dodgers at L.A. Angels, late Oakland at San Francisco, late Saturday’s games Detroit at Tampa Bay, 11:35 a.m.

Boston vs. Minnesota at Fort Myers, Fla., 12:05 p.m.

Pittsburgh at Philadelphia, 12:05 p.m.

N.Y. Yankees at Washington, 12:05 p.m.

Cincinnati vs. Toronto at Montreal, 12:07 p.m.

N.Y. Mets at Texas, 1:05 p.m.

Cleveland vs. Milwaukee at Phoenix, 2:05 p.m.

Baltimore vs. Atlanta at Kissimmee, Fla., 2:05 p.m.

Seattle vs. Colorado at Scottsdale, Ariz., 2:10 p.m.

San Francisco at Oakland, 3:05 p.m.

Kansas City at Houston, 3:05 p.m.

Chicago Cubs at Arizona, 3:10 p.m.

L.A. Angels at L.A. Dodgers, 8:10 p.m.

BASEBALL Major League Baseball OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER OF BASEBALL — Suspended Minnesota RHP Ervin Santana 80 games after a positive test for Stanozolol, a performanceenhancing substance, in violation of Major League Baseball’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. Fined Miami RHP Jarred Cosart an undisclosed amount for violating Major League Rule 21(d)(3), which “prohibits players from placing bets with illegal bookmakers or agents for illegal book makers.”

American League BALTIMORE ORIOLES — Reassigned Inf Jayson Nix and INF Paul Janish to their minor league camp.

CHICAGO WHITE SOX — Optioned RHP Erik Johnson to Charlotte (IL). Sent RHP Maikel Cleto and LHP Onelki Garcia outright to Charlotte. Reassigned RHP Jairo Asencio, OF Engel Beltre, C George Kottaras and RHP Arcenio Leon to minor-league camp.

DETROIT TIGERS — Optioned LHP Blaine Hardy and LHP Kyle Ryan to Toledo (IL).

Assigned INF Josh Wilson to minor league camp.

KANSAS CITY ROYALS — Assigned RHP Louis Coleman outright to Omaha (PCL).

MINNESOTA TWINS — Recalled LHP Aaron Thompson from Rochester (IL).

National League CHICAGO CUBS — Assigned Drake Britton outright to Iowa (PCL).

ST. LOUIS CARINALS — Claimed OF Gary Brown off waivers from San Francisco and assigned him to Memphis (PCL). Optioned RHP Marco Gonzales and INF Ty Kelly to Memphis (PCL). Reassigned RHP Mitch Harris, RHP Marcus Hatley, INF Scott Moore and OF Stephen Piscotty to Memphis. Placed OF Tommy Pham on the 15-day DL, retroactive to March 27.

BASKETBALL National Basketball Association LOS ANGELES LAKERS — Signed G Dwight Buycks to a 10-day contract.

FOOTBALL National Football League NEW ORLEANS SAINTS — Signed WR Joseph Morgan to a one-year contract.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS — Signed LB Nick Bellore to a two-year contract.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS — Acquired S Dashon Goldson from Tampa Bay Buccaneers for an undisclosed 2016 draft pick.

HOCKEY National Hockey League ANAHEIM DUCKS — Recalled RW Stefan Noesen from Norfolk (AHL).

MONTREAL CANADIENS — Reassigned D Brett Lernout from Swift Current (WHL) to Hamilton (AHL).

COLLEGE TEXAS— Named Shaka Smart men’s basketball coach.

Business

www.saukvalley.com

Section C

SV Weekend

Saturday, April 4, 2015

daveRAMSEY

AGRICULTURE

Organic order overload

Financial straight talk.

For more advice, plus special readers offers, visit davesays. org or call 88822-PEACE.

Share what dad is going through Dear Dave, My parents are going through a divorce, and money issues are a big part of the problem. My dad bought several rental properties and poured money into them. Then he lost them to foreclosure and isn’t making a lot in his new, commission-based job.

How can I, as a 25-year-old kid, tell him that his career choices aren’t working?

– Ryan

Tribune News Service photos

Mark Wickenhauser, owner of Wicmar Dairy, milks one of the last cows of the morning March 11 in Cologne, Minnesota.

Wickenhauser started the transition of Wicmar Dairy into an organic farm in 2000 and became certified organic in 2005.

Demand for organic dairy is increasing, and it can be difficult for farmers to keep up with demand.

Dairy farming struggles to keep up with demand

BY TOM MEERSMAN Tribune News Service

COLOGNE, Minn. – Mark Wickenhauser stood in the doorway of his weathered 1910 barn and viewed the dark soil that will soon sprout a pasture rich with alfalfa and other grasses. He has worked all his life at the family dairy farm here but switched from conventional to organic farming in 2005.

“It wasn’t the popular thing to do, but I guess I didn’t care,” he said. “It just made a lot of sense to me.”

Organic dairy has come

a long way since then.

Americans spent more than $5 billion on organic dairy products in 2014, with double-digit annual growth during much of the past decade, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Supply has not been able to keep up with demand, especially during the past year, said Meg Moynihan, organic program administrator for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

ORGANIC CONTINUED ON C8

Wickenhauser’s barn at Wicmar Dairy, which houses his dairy cows, is shown in the morning. Even with its growing popularity, organic milk represented only about 5 percent of the total milk produced nationally in 2014, according to federal estimates.

Dear Ryan, I’m sorry to hear about your mom and dad. Divorce is never an easy thing, no matter how old you are.

You’ve probably heard lots of old sayings about how winners never quit. Well, in many cases those are false statements.

Winners and successful people quit all the time; they quit doing things that aren’t working. This doesn’t have to mean that you quit on a dream, but it could mean you change the methodology you’re using – especially if it’s not getting you anywhere.

Part of being a successful entrepreneur is having the ability to recognize when something isn’t working and change it. You sound like a smart, caring young man, but there’s little chance that a 20-something with very little life experience will be able to convince his father of these things. I mean, he’s probably in his 50s, right? Plus, he’s going through a divorce, and it sounds like he’s broke and emotionally worn out.

RAMSEY CONTINUED ON C8

IN THE WORKPLACE

Puzzles with a purpose: team-building

BY DEREK BEIGH The Pantagraph Distributed by The Associated Press

BLOOMINGTON – After 45 minutes locked in a room together, Team Pens to Lens knows time is running out. The six young adults from Champaign agree: They need help.

Anne Lukeman waves to a ceilingmounted camera and says, “Hint!

Hint!” A single line of text appears on a screen on the far wall, just below the ticking timer.

The group springs into action, and 9 minutes later, they’ve unlocked the door to their confines.

“What did you think?” Rebecca Henderson asks.

“That was really fun,” says A.J. Christensen.

The team has just completed “The Office,” one of five puzzle rooms at Escape Bloomington. The business, an offshoot of SmartPath Education Services, uses a separate space at 2203 E. Empire St. as a laboratory for team-building and play alike.

Henderson, a co-owner, said the K-12 educational publisher opened Escape Bloomington in October because “training and teambuilding are big priorities for us.”

It’s been busy since: weekdays with

corporate clients and weekends with thrill-seekers and amateur logicians.

In each scenario, a small group of players – four to 10 – is locked in a room for an hour and attempts to solve riddles that will lead to their freedom. Groups can choose the “fear factor” and difficulty of their scenario, and each take place in a realistic environment.

“The Office,” for instance, appears to be just that: A desk, two chairs, a bookcase and simple floor and wall furnishings.

PUZZLES CONTINUED ON C8

CGH Medical Center Introduces Aja Murphy, DO We are pleased to announce that Aja Murphy, DO has joined CGH Medical Center.

Dr. Murphy is board certified in Family Medicine and is accepting new patients.

Dr. Murphy received her DO from Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine in Chicago, Illinois; her MS from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and her BS from Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia. She completed a Family Medicine residency at Bay Regional Medical Center in Bay City, Michigan and an Internal Medicine internship at Henry Ford Macomb Hospital in Clinton Township, Michigan.

Dr. Murphy is currently accepting new patients at her office at CGH Main Clinic, 101 E. Miller Road in Sterling.

To make an appointment, please call 815-625-4790.

Aja Murphy, DO

AP

Chris Lukeman (left), Anne Lukeman, and Thomas Nicol review a clue Feb. 14 while working on a team-building exercise in a puzzle room at Escape Bloomington in Bloomington.

C2 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, April 4, 2015

Time to sign up at SVCC

Michael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com

The January Student of the Month at Ashton-Franklin Center High School is Kristen Bartlett of Franklin Grove, She plans to attend either the University of Illinois or Illinois State University and major in cellular and molecular biology.

January Student of the Month FRANKLIN GROVE – Kristen Bartlett, 17, of Franklin Grove, is Ashton-Franklin Center High School’s January Student of the Month.

She is the daughter of Brian and the late Jeri Lynn Bartlett, and she has two sisters, Jenna, 21, and Hailie, 9.

Favorite class: Physical education, because I love being active and having a good time.

Least-favorite class: Consumers, because it is right before lunch, so I am constantly waiting for the bell to ring.

assistant positions in my area.

What will you do after high school? Attend either the University of Illinois or Illinois State University, and major in cellular and molecular biology.

What is something you learned in high school that you think you will never use? Everything we have been learning in precalculus lately.

No offense, Mrs. (Traci) Gittleson.

What kind of music are you listening to? I usually can listen to anything, but I love Nikki Minaj.

Favorite teacher: Travis Stauffer, history. Mr. T is What is your favorite: an open book. You can ask him anything, and he App: Instagram. will answer you honestly.

Since he is so young, he Food: Anything Italian. knows what it is like to be a student. Therefore, Game or activity: Badhe tries to make every minton. class as fun and interesting as possible.

Actor: Seth Rogen, Bradley Cooper or Mark School activities: Volley- Wahlberg. ball, cheerleading, baseball stats, National Honor Movie: “American SnipSociety, and band. er.”

Civic, church, volunteer or activities: I volunteer at Turning Point Community Church, as a teacher’s assistant in children’s church. I also have volunteered in various other activities for National Honors Society.

TV show: “How I Met Your Mother” or “Say Yes to the Dress.”

Sports team: The Bears, sadly ...

Do you have a hobby?

Working out.

Do you have a job? Not Is there a celebrity yet, but I am looking for whom you look like/ available certified nursing act like/feel like? I have

been told that I look like Lindsay Lohan, but I beg to differ.

What’s the one thing in your life you can’t do without? My friends.

They are there for me for everything.

What is your advice for surviving high school? Do not worry about the small stuff.

There are much bigger things in your future.

What scares you? Spiders and bugs, because they are creepy and crawly and gross.

What’s something about you that nobody knows? I cannot do a cartwheel, and I hate it.

If you could ask President Obama any question, what would it be? What does he plan to do with his life once his term is over?

If you could try any job for a day, what would it be? An aquatic animal trainer, like with dolphins and seals.

If you could go anywhere in the world for free, where would it be? Definitely Australia, because it is warm and beautiful.

What is the last good book you read? “Mockingjay,” by Suzanne Collins, the final book of “The Hunger Games” series. It is about the 12

districts that have to fight for their freedom. I like it because it was adventurous and kept me interested throughout the whole book and series.

DIXON – Several business and community education courses will start soon at Sauk Valley Community College, 173 state Route 2.

They are: Understanding Medicare and Medicaid: It’s Decision Time, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Tuesday and April 14, 21, and 28: This is an interactive class designed to provide an understanding of Medicare and Medicaid. The cost is $40.

Therapy Dog Training, 7 to 8 p.m., Wednesday and April 15, 22, and 29. Students and their dogs will be taught how to work as a therapy team in a variety of environments. Optional certification testing will be available upon course completion. Proof of rabies and vaccination shots, and a leash and collar are required at the first class. Dogs should have a friendly disposi-

tion. The cost is $45 per dog.

Companion Dog Training, 7 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, and April 16, 23, and 30, and May 7, 14, and 21. The purpose the class is to develop a cooperative pet and to work to eliminate unruly behavior. Orientation is Thursday; students are to attend without dogs.

A copy of the dog’s shot records must be brought to orientation. The cost is $65 per dog.

Household Budgeting, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., April 13, 20, and 27. Students will be taught how to manage household income. They will need a calculator, notebook, and pencil. The cost is $30.

V isit svcc.edu/bcc for more information.

Register at the college’s office of admissions or contact brenda.helms@ svcc.edu or 815-8356212.

SCOUT AWARD RECIPIENT

What is your proudest moment? I think my proudest moment was both of my senior nights and knowing that I successfully had made it through 4 years of sports.

Who is your hero-role model? My role model is God. I know that he always will be there, even when no one else is. Going to church and strengthening my relationship with God has led me to a much better place in life. I can do all through Christ who strengthens me. Phillippians 4:13 Is there anything else you would want people to know about you? I think I have learned the most in life after I lost my mom about 3 years ago. I learned that not everything lasts forever, and that people can be with you in one moment and gone in the next. I have become an independent person with loads of self-motivation. I love that about myself, and I know that my mom is proud of me.

Is there someone you’d like to send a shout out to? To all my friends and my boyfriend for getting me through all the tough times. You are all the real MVPs (most valuable players).

An area scout leader recently was honored by the Blackhawk Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

Kathe Lehrke received the Silver Beaver Award in recognition of distinguished service to youth. She advises Venturing Crew 52 in Oregon. Photo submitted by R.J. Stone.

IN BRIEF ‘Chicago’ to hit screen at Odell MORRISON – The Oscar-winning film version of the musical “Chicago” will be shown at 2 p.m. April 14 in the program room at Odell Public Library, 307 S. Madison St. The movie stars Richard Gere, Renee Zellweger, and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Set in the 1920s, the story is about an attorney and two women accused of murder.

Donations will be accepted; popcorn and drinks will be served.

For information, call

the library at 815-7727323.

Dance scheduled for local students AMBOY – Teen Turf will have a dance for students in fifth grade and older from 7 to 10 p.m.

Friday at the Boehle Youth Center, 235 W. Main St. The cost is $4. The students will receive a coupon to participate in a door prize drawing.

Chaperones are needed; call the center at 815-857-4800 to volunteer. Youth whose parents chaperone can attend for free.

SENIOR HONORS

Painters display their works from a recent social artworking party at Woodlawn Arts Academy in Sterling. A second party is planned for Friday. Photo submitted by Janel Stahr.

Paint program, rummage sale set at Woodlawn STERLING – A social artworking party will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Woodlawn Arts Academy, 3807 Woodlawn Road.

Painters 18 and older will receive instruction

from Jaime Blakeselee on how to create canvas paintings with color-mixing and painting techniques. Participants can bring their own beverages and snacks.

The cost is $40. To register, visit woodlawnart sacademy.com or visit or call the academy, 815626-4278.

A rummage sale to benefit Woodlawn Dance

Academy’s competition team also is planned.

It will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 17-18. Proceeds will help the team attend nationals in July in Ohio.

Oregon High School has named its February Senior of Distinction. Kelsey Pudlas received her award from Pat Donahue of Stillman Valley Bank.

Photo submitted by Angela Hollaway.

Saturday, April 4, 2015

Scrapbook

SV Weekend • C3

www.saukvalley.com

ST. ANNE STUDENTS AWARDED T-SHIRTS

Students at St. Anne School in Dixon display their Bring Up Grades T-shirts. The shirts were awarded through the Dixon Kiwanis Club’s BUG Program. The students received BUG certificates and pencils, as well as coupons from Hardee’s, McDonald’s or Culver’s. Awards also were handed out at St. Mary School in Dixon. Photo submitted by John Holthaus.

SOCCER TEAM TAKES THIRD

The Sterling United High School Girls Soccer Team placed third in the High School Girls Premier League from mid-January through February, during the second indoor session in DeKalb. The players are (kneeling, from left) Karina Huaracha, Ellen Reter, Julia Diaz, Sierra Sotelo, and Candy Barrientos; and (standing) Alyssa Diaz, Sonia Barrientos, Chloe Halverson, Zoey Ward, Natalie Herrera, Fatìma Gallardo, and Rosa Sanchez. Not pictured are Catalina Desmond and Raul Sanchez, coach. Photo submitted by Christine Bushman.

TO PLAY AT JUDSON

THIRD AT STATE Colten Bishop from Reagan Middle School in Dixon wrestled his way to third place at 100 pounds during the Illinois Elementary School Association state tournament.

The competition was March 13 and 14 in the Northern Illinois University Convocation Center at DeKalb.

Jordan Bracero, a West Carroll High School student in Savanna (seated at center), recently signed to play basketball and track and field at Judson University in Elgin. With him are (seated, from left) Carlos Bracero, his uncle; Jose Bracero, his father; Teuila Bracero, his mother; and Kyle Tutt, West Carroll head basketball coach; and (standing) Jeff Holley and Scott Glazier, West Carroll assistant basketball coaches; and Dave Baisden, West Carroll head track and field coach.

Photo submitted by Joseph Hansen.

Photo submitted

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, April 4, 2015

Disapprovers wrong about 56-year marriage Dear Abby: I read the letter (Jan. 19) from the young woman who is concerned about dating someone significantly older. In 1958, when I was 17, I met a man who was 34. He was handsome, easygoing, quiet, and I fell in love. He was a widower with two children – a 13-year-old girl and a 9-year-old boy. They lived with his mother.

His mom was not at all happy about our relationship, nor were his sisters, my parents, and his kids. We wanted to get married, but my parents refused to sign. I felt like the whole world was against us. But I loved him dearly.

In March 1959, I turned

dearABBY Dear Abby is written

by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips. The column is provided through Universal Uclick.

18. We were married on April 4 against everyone’s wishes. We had four more children. My dad did not set foot in my home until my first child was born.

My mother-in-law finally told me she loved me and knew I was good for her son on our 10th anniversary. All our children are close, and his two call

me “Mom.” His daughter was a great help with our babies, and cried when she got married and left home.

We have had our ups and downs, but we also have had 56 wonderful years of marriage. Age really is just a number.

– Janet in Indiana

marriage. My congratulations to you both as you celebrate your 56th anniversary today.

Dear Abby: I recently walked in on one of my boys’ 12-year-old friends watching YouTube videos that were extremely foulmouthed and even raunchy (he had separated Dear Janet: In many himself from the other cases that’s true. In othboys while viewing them). ers, couples with such a His parents are under the large disparity in age have misconception that they been known to grow apart have control of his online instead of on a parallel activities. path. Because you and When I was young, my your husband’s relationfriends’ parents would ship turned out to be a soul reprimand me when necmatch, you are not only essary, but parents these lucky to have found each days reject outside advice other, but also blessed to or input. What’s the prophave enjoyed such a long er response to this? Talk

Annual cantata returns MORRISON – Voices of Praise, a 90-voice choir consisting of Emmanuel Reformed Church’s Sanctuary Choir and other area church members, will perform its eighth spring cantata, “Love Won.” The performances are Thursday, Friday, and April 12 at Emmanuel, 202 E. Morris St. The doors will open at 6 p.m., with the music at 7.

The 70-minute concert is for all ages. Donations will be accepted.

Other churches represented are First Lutheran Church and Hope United Methodist Church, both in Chadwick; Bethel Christian Reformed, Second Reformed Church, O p e n B i b l e Fe l l ow ship, and Spring Valley

Reformed Church, all in Fulton; Hanover Presbyterian Church; Milledgeville Brethren Church and Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, both in Milledgeville; Christian Reformed Church, Crossroads Community Church, Ebenezer Reformed Church, St. Mary Catholic Church, and St. Peter Lutheran Church, all in Morrison; Trinity Lutheran Church – Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod in Mo u n t Ca r ro l l ; Ha rvest Time Bible Church in Rock Falls; and The Bridge at Beans (Brethren in Christ) and Bethel Reformed Church, both in Sterling.

Among the songs are “Four Days Late,” “Joy in

My Heart,” “Lord, Lead Me Home,” “Oceans,” “You Are I Am,” and “10,000 Reasons.” Tonia Ernst, Kathy Green, and Ritch Lindstrom are the soloists. Rich Criss will direct.

A f e l l ow s h i p h o u r, hosted by the women of Emmanuel, will follow the performance.

A shuttle bus will be provided 1 hour before and after the performances. Riders will be picked up at the Ebenezer Reformed Church parking lot, 309 E. Park St., and taken to Emmanuel Reformed.

The church is wheelchair accessible.

Visit emmanuelre formedchurch.org for more information.

Early blooms getting ready

BY RUTH EDWARDS NATURE CENTER STAFF Dixon Park District

It’s anyone’s guess when the first, brave, spring ephemerals will pop out of the ground.

Usually, hepatica is blooming by mid-March on the south-facing slopes of the ravines in Lowell Park. But this season’s extraordinarily-cold temperatures and heavy snow may curtail early action by these fragile flowers.

In truth, the deep snow is beneficial to the flowers, grasses, trees, and shrubs. Snow insulates the ground and protects roots, shoots, and bulbs from abrupt temperature changes. It keeps the ground from absorbing the sun’s warmth, which is what these woodland

flowers depend on. And that’s why they bloom so early – way before the trees leaf out and steal all the sunlight from the forest floor.

Hepatica, sometimes called liverleaf because its leaves are lobed like a liver, hugs the ground.

Its leaves turn a reddish color later in the season, but now, in early spring, are green. The delicate lavender blooms are on short stems.

Spring beauties carpet the moist ground in the picnic area of Lowell Park. Fragile pink or white flowers are veined with a darker shade of pink.

Doll’s eyes, Jack-in-thepulpit, green dragon, columbine, shooting star, wild ginger, bellflower, toothwort,

directly to the boy? Turn him in to his parents?

– Burning ears in Pennsylvania

Dutchman’s breeches, buttercups, trout lily, wild geranium – the list is both intriguing and interesting. Please visit Lowell Park this spring and make friends with the ephemerals – they last only a short while – enjoy them while they are at their peak.

And please take Edna St. Vincent Millay’s poem to heart – flower picking is not allowed in Lowell Park.

“Afternoon on a Hill:” I will be the gladdest thing under the sun. I will touch a hundred flowers and not pick one.

In other park district news, registration for spring and summer programs and park shelter registration have begun.

Visit dixonparkdistrict. com or call 815-284-3306 for more information.

AT THE BEE

Dear Burning: Have a talk with the boy. Explain that the language in the video is not permitted in your home, and you prefer he not watch it while he is there. If he agrees, do not take it any further. However, if it happens again, talk to his parents, and limit the time your sons spend with him.

Dear Abby: I sold women’s shoes for 35 years.

Men, when a lady asks if you like the shoe she’s wearing, she doesn’t care if you like the shoe. She wants to know whether it

looks good on her or makes her ankles look fat. It’s like if a man buys new floor mats for his car or truck. He buys them to make his vehicle look better, not just to have floor mats.

Wise up and think. If you do, shopping with your lady will make more sense!.

– David in Phoenix Dear David: I love your analogy. Of course, you are correct – and it applies to more apparel than shoes.

One caveat: Men, when you’re asked, be diplomatic or you may find yourselves in serious trouble.

Contact Dear Abby at DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

GREEN DONATIONS

Students at St. Mary Grade School in Sterling display green food and household items in green packages collected for St. Patrick’s Day, March 17. With the donations are (from left) Jacob Kreps, Megan Gingrich, Monica Healy, Connor Pham, Nolan Britt, and Hayden Witt. The items, such as green beens and green-packaged paper towels, were given to the St. Vincent de Paul Society and the local food pantry. Photo submitted by Diana Healy.

IN BRIEF Potatoes, ice cream on menu HARMON – Spuds and Splits will be served from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Harmon United Methodist Church, 202 N. Grove St. The menu will include baked potatoes, hot dogs, bean soup, chili, and handmade ice cream.

A variety of toppings will be available.

Donations will be accepted.

For more information, call Millie Lamkin at 815-359-7323.

Program focus about using rulers PRINCETON – The Covered Bridge Quilters Guild will meet at 7 p.m.

Thursday at Evangelical Covenant Church, 24 N. Main St. Mary Jane Mundly will present the program “Rulers, Rulers and More Rulers – Get More Than One Use Out of Them.”

Guests can attend for $5.

Judy Niemeyer’s cactus flower table runner will be the subject of a workshop by Linda Culvert of Peddlers Way Quilt Co. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

April 11 at the church.

For membership information, call Annette

Byrne at 815-223-0558.

For workshop and program information, call Mary Wallis at 815-8664622.

Firefighter hits 15-year mark MANLIUS – Manlius Fire Department members met in March at the fire hall.

Robert Reglin, president, conducted the meeting, with seven members present.

B.J. Jensen earned a 15-year service pin.

Attendance awards were won by Justin Doty, Steve Michlig, and Jeremy Roush.

In other business: The Inter Community Fyre Fyters Association meeting was in Manlius.

The next meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the firehouse.

The lunch committee will be Justin Doty and Mitch Doty.

Methodists to serve Italian dish STERLING – A spaghetti dinner will be from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

April 11 at Trinity United Methodist Church, 205 E. 10th St. Other items on the menu are salad, bread, dessert, and a beverage.

Call 815-626-7777 to order carry-outs.

Donations will be accepted.

Proceeds will be used for outreach missions in the Rock Falls and Sterling area.

Spring sale set at Rock Falls church ROCK FALLS – A spring rummage sale will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to noon April 11 at Rock Falls United Methodist Church, 210 Fourth Ave. Toys, household and holiday items, pictures, frames, furniture, and jewelry will be sold.

For more information, call the church at 815-6250114.

Steel company part of agenda STERLING – The Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society will meet at 2 p.m. April 12.

The meeting will take place in the Ryberg Auditorium at CGH Medical Center, 100 E. LeFevre Road.

The program will be about the history of Northwestern Steel and Wire Co., presented by Dana Fellows of Grand Detour.

The public is welcome.

For more information, call 815-622-6215.

Celebrating Dixon’s arrival

Participants display their awards March 21 after the Lee County Council on Aging Senior Spelling Bee in Dixon. They are (front row, from left) Elinore Kugler, Jill Horn, first place, and Cathy Reglin, second place; and (back row) Tom Wadsworth, pronouncer. Photo submitted by Jennifer Lang.

DIXON – The Reynolds family and Reynolds Wire Co. will be featured April 11 at the annual Founder’s Day Celebration at Loveland Community House and Museum, 513 W. Second St. John Dixon, the founder of the city, and his wife and children settled near what is now the corner of First Street

and Peoria Avenue on April 11, 1830.

The celebration will start at 11:30 a.m., with sandwiches and salad available for $5. At noon, Duane Paulsen, a local historian, will present the program, which will include the Loveland Community House and Museum that turns 75 this year.

The winner of the Lan-

gan Award for excellence in preser ving Dixon’s history and heritage will be named, as will the McAlpine Award winner for excellence in preserving and revitalizing the historic downtown district.

For more information, call Giana Bonneur, Dixon Main Street director, at 815-2882308.

Opinion Saturday, April 4, 2015

www.saukvalley.com

SV Weekend • C5

THE READER’S VOICE

Vote Wilen for city council JIM GLAZIER Sterling

Of the three candidates for 2nd Ward alderman in Sterling, I believe that Christine “Chris” Wilen is the best choice.

I have known Chris for many years and am honored to call her a friend.

Above that, Chris is an able, active, intelligent person who, I think, will put the best interests of all Sterling residents in the forefront.

Chris has no ax to grind and is not beholden to any person or group in the area. I encourage all residents of the 2nd Ward to vote for Christine “Chris” Wilen for Sterling alderman.

Vote Stoker for school board MICHAEL and DEB DONOHO Dixon

Jill Stoker is running as a candidate for the Dixon Board of Education. We have known Jill for more than 40 years.

Jill has always been a very conscientious, caring educator. She also was our youngest daughter’s kindergarten teacher, so we know firsthand what a great educator she was.

We think being a retired teacher is good experience to be on the school board.

She is going to care, especially since her grandchildren attend Dixon Public Schools. We appreciate her willingness to have a progressive working relationship between board members, administration, staff, and parents. We have no doubts that she will make a positive difference.

Vote for Jill Stoker on April 7.

Vote Venier for city council BOB MEZO Dixon

I am writing to urge the citizens of Dixon to vote for Mike Venier for Dixon City Council.

Mike was born and raised in Dixon, and works at the downtown familyowned business.

Mike is dedicated to making Dixon succeed. I had the pleasure of working with Mike for more than a decade while I was president of the Al Morrison Memorial Baseball Board. Mike was my vice president and right-hand man during those years. I have firsthand experience with what a hard and dedicated worker Mike is.

There is no question Mike loves this city as much as I do, which is clearly evident by his history of involvement, Including, but not limited, to Al Morrison Youth Baseball, Dixon Main Street, Dixon Riverfront, Dixon Park District Board, and St. Patrick Church Jamboree. Not to mention he is a tremendous family man with great values.

There are several good candidate choices in this election for the Dixon City Council. Please make Mike Venier one of the elected choices.

Arellano for Dixon mayor MICHAEL DONOHO Dixon

“Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst; the wine will run out and the wineskins

will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved.” Matthew 9:17 NIV. With all of the newspaper articles and ads from candidates for mayor and city council, it has become very apparent that the current city council members have completely changed the way they feel about the new managerial form of municipal government.

This council includes one mayoral candidate.

After the taxpayers voted for a new form of government, the form of government is to be changed.

When election time approached, suddenly the city council members liked this new form of government and started talking about how you need experienced people to bring this change about.

It is apparent that none of the candidates has ever changed a form of government, thus putting all candidates on an equal field.

Li Arellano Jr. spoke for a change in the form of government from the beginning. Li is a businessman who successfully built his businesses while serving in the Army in Iraq in a depressed economy.

Vote Arellano, a battletested leader.

Vote Gibler for city council VONDA LaFEVER Niceville, Florida

Dixon before the street reconstruction. However, some of those spaces were not replaced in the new downtown parking plan, so you can bet she’ll be at it again!

I greatly admire Josie’s dedication to everything she does. Whether it’s volunteering (at the local food pantry, etc), participating in various church activities, or getting involved in community issues, she always gives it her best.

Vote for Josie Whaley for Dixon City Council. I really believe that you’ll be glad you did!

Considine for commissioner JOSEPH MAY Dixon

On April 7, we have a very important election here in the city of Dixon, one that will determine what direction our city will go in the coming years.

Dennis Considine has the best interest of the city and its residents in mind.

He has proved this over the past 4 years in office.

So, please, on April 7, vote for Integrity, vote for experience, vote for Dennis Considine for commissioner. Thank you.

both those organizations resulted in the Genealogical Society becoming a tenant in the Historical Society’s headquarters in 1995. The Genealogical Society was to pay half the expenses in exchange for space in the building.

Over the 12 months of the Genealogical Society’s tenancy, events unfolded that caused concern among its members.

Ownership of materials, equipment, and databases quickly became an issue.

For example, Gibler claimed Historical Society copyright on data given to the Genealogical Society. In addition, he claimed Historical Society ownership of computers that had been donated through efforts by Genealogical members.

It became painfully apparent that this arrangement could not continue, nor could the G enealogical Society even share quarters with an organization headed by someone who had no regard for the property of others.

Gibler is not a person who should be serving in a position in our city’s government. I will not be voting for Bob Gibler on April 7.

Vote Arellano Vote Schielein for fresh start for school board CAROLYN BRECHON ANGIE HARRISON Dixon

I am a local businesswoman, and through committee work, I have observed and worked with Jim Schielein, and I have seen how lucky we are to have a man with dedication to our kids and the future of Dixon Schools.

He has taken a lead in the research and discovery of what might be the best options for the aging school buildings and is forward thinking about what the district might need to look like in 20 years.

He has children in the district and attends a variety of sporting, academic, music and theater-related events, where he is always talking with the parents and employees and listening to their opinions and gathering information that will better our community and schools.

He understands how better schools result in better and stronger communities with better employees drawing businesses to Dixon!

I have attended meetings where his leadership and knowledge of the district and financials are evident. This man studies the details and is ready to discuss what is on the agenda at the meetings and asks the right questions.

He is a great school board member, and this BEVERLEY EYKAMP community is blessed Dixon that he is willing to As a good friend of Josie serve us in this capacity.

Whaley, I’ve often seen Once again, vote for Jim her in action concerning Schielein! community issues. When Josie sees a need, she’s definitely not afraid to “jump in with both feet.”

By listening to the conDONNA MISNER cerns of citizens and by Dixon doing research, she finds As a past officer of both out what is needed and the Lee County Historical acts on it.

She has often addressed and Lee County Geneathe Dixon City Coun- logical societies, and a cil regarding important current member of the issues. Asking for more recently merged Lee transparency in Dixon city County Historical and government has been a Genealogical Society, I wish to give my viewpoint main endeavor for years.

Also, Josie had argued regarding the qualificafor, and had gained, tions and suitability of more handicapped park- Bob Gibler for office.

His past involvement in ing spaces in downtown To the people of Dixon: As a former Dixon resident and business owner, I would like to endorse Bob Gibler for the Dixon City Council.

For many years, I worked with Bob on various projects, from building a website to setting up the computer network for the store.

When Bob has a project to complete, rest assured, it gets done! He took time before the start of the project to research the most effective and efficient process.

Bob would always take it one step further and give us value comparison on products, as well as his recommendation.

On a personal basis, you will have a difficult time finding a more caring person. He was the best of friends with my husband, Bud LaFever.

After Bud passed away in 2006, and I moved out of Dixon in 2010, Bob has continued his love and support of me and my family.

Please place your vote for Bob Gibler on April 7th!

Note to readers: Vonda LaFever is former owner of Flowers Etc.

Vote Whaley for city council

Will not vote for Bob Gibler

Dixon

I am writing in response to Mayor Burke’s Reader’s Voice letter on March 26 criticizing Liandro Arellano’s comment during the mayoral candidate forum: “The city will probably be operating in the red by 2018.”

If Li is incorrect, could Mayor Burke please explain this statement published in an article dated Feb. 18, 2015, during Dixon’s budget workshops: “The city’s expenses are expected to surpass its revenue in either the 2017-18 or 2019-20 fiscal year, depending on new hires. This is caused, in part, by the police and fire department pensions, Meyer said.”

If this is an incorrect or misquoted statement by the newspaper, Mayor Burke had an opportunity then to publicly correct it.

Or, is the mayor purposely trying to misconstrue Li’s comment since he has publicly endorsed Jeff Kuhn for mayor?

But, on the other hand, Mayor Burke supposedly had no clue that Rita Crundwell was stealing the city of Dixon blind during his four terms as mayor.

Need I say any more?

For a truly fresh start, please vote for Liandro Arellano for mayor on April 7.

ed positive and growthoriented direction for the city of Dixon.

Elect officials with experience CAROL CHANDLER Dixon

Vote intelligently. Our city needs you.

Dixon is entering into a new governmental system. We need officials with experience and integrity to move forward.

Jeff Kuhn has proved to be someone who not only has the experience but also has the interests of Dixon at heart. Jeff is open to the concerns of our citizens, and responds to those concerns readily and with fairness.

Mike Venier is a lifelong citizen of Dixon, and an astute businessman who has shown his devotion to Dixon with his many years of volunteering for our city and for our youth.

Colleen Brechon also is a business owner, is a longtime citizen of our city, has a long history of volunteering, and has a demonstrated knowledge of finances and what our city’s business concerns are.

Dennis Considine also has knowledge and experience of Dixon’s needs through his years on the city council, community involvement, and his long-term residency.

Bob Gibler acquired the domain name for Dixon (costs about $15) and then charged the city (us taxpayers) almost $2,000 for it! It’s not illegal, but perhaps unethical? Is this integrity? You decide.

Arellano for Dixon mayor SANDY RAKOWSKI ALCALA Dixon

As April 7 is soon approaching, I hope everyone keeps Dixon’s best interest in mind.

Hearing Mr. Arellano speak at the forum and his fundraiser was amazing.

This young man is a true businessman. He talked of goals he wants for this town, not just current but in 5 and 10 years down the road, and also of work on getting new businesses brought in for growth.

This is a man we just can’t say enough about; this is what Dixon has needed for quite some time.

He is not looking to enhance his ego or bank account, but to grow and build a better community with a brighter future.

This isn’t only for his family, but for all who call Dixon home.

Mr. Arellano definitely has the skill set to accomplish this. This young man has accomplished more at his age than most have done in a lifetime.

I don’t feel Mr. Kuhn has the qualifications or business experience Mr. Arellano has. Implementation of the new government MARK MARONDE Dixon would make incumbent Bob Gibler has given knowledge null and void. tirelessly to others, in terms of his volunteer service and civic involvement. I’ve known Bob for many years, and have CHRIS DEVER found him to be a man of Rock Falls honesty and integrity.

I have known Linda PenHe is not, and never will be, a professional politi- nell for 20 years, and I find cian. I’m confident he’ll her to be of good moral put the best interests of character.

Dixon’s residents first and She qualifies for the Rock Falls City Council foremost.

I voted for Bob in 2011, based on past experience and intend to do so once as a former alderwoman again on Tuesday as he for Sterling. seeks a seat on the city I encourage everyone to vote for Linda Pennell for council.

A vote for Bob Gibler is 3rd Ward alderwoman on a vote for a much-need- the Rock Falls City Council.

Elect Gibler to city council

Vote Pennell for alderwoman

Thank you for successful Farmers’ Night PAM ERBY Rock Falls

The Rock Falls Rotary Club would like to thank the many people who made the 67th annual Farmers’ Night on March 16 a success.

Sponsors of this annual event were Johnson Oil Co., The Cornerstone Agency, Vern’s Farm Supply, Alton Irrigation, 1st Farm Credit Services, Gold Star FS, Sauk Valley Bank, and Zoeller Ag Services.

Farmers’ Night is a tribute to all in our agricultural community who contribute to the production of plants and livestock to feed the hungry of both our community and abroad.

In addition, I also thank all members of the Rock Falls Rotary who sponsored guests, donated door prizes, and brought desserts for the auction, and especially Keith Zoeller, who chaired this event.

A special thank you t o E l i z a b e t h Ju d d , music director at Rock Falls High School, who arranged the entertainment of the Rhythm Quest Band, composed of high school students from Rock Falls, Dixon, and Milledgeville.

All proceeds support scholarships for high school youths.

Most of all, I thank the many guests of the agricultural community who joined us for the evening at Deer Valley.

Note to readers: Pam Erby is president of Rock Falls Rotary.

Thankful for successful Relay event BETTY CLEMENTZ and RUSS SIEFKEN residents of Sterling

Many thanks are extended to those who volunteered their time, talents, and treasures to make the kickoff for the Relay for Life of Whiteside County such a huge success on Feb. 28.

Thank you to Froggy’s Bar and Grill in downtown Rock Falls and owners, the Lamb family, who offered use of the restaurant for our kickoff event; to Jay Pauley and members of his band Chameleon, which entertained the crowd from 3 to 4:30 p.m.; and to Curt Norton and members of his band Dinner at the Kids Table, who provided entertainment from 5:15 to 7 p.m.

Thank you to members of the Halo Cares Relay for Life team, who offered items of Relay for Life merchandise for sale; to members of the Walmart Distribution Center, who organized the 50/50 fundraisers during the evening; to planning committee members, who worked the event in many capacities; and to the public, who attended the event, and to cancer survivors and team members and captains, who registered at www.RelayForLife. org/whitesideil for the 2015 event.

Without all of you volunteering, this kickoff could not have been the success it was. Thank you.

Note to readers: Russ Siefken and Betty Clementz are co-chairmen of the 2015 Relay for Life of Whiteside County.

Election Day is Tuesday, April 7. Vote as you please, but please vote!

C6 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS Aleena Jade Higley Jaden and Benjamin Higley of Rock Falls are the parents of a daughter born at 2:45 p.m. March 23, 2015, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Aleena Jade Higley weighed 8 pounds, 2 ounces at birth and was 22 inches in length.

She is welcomed by Karrington Higley, 2.

Maternal grandparents are Debbie Lewis of Rock Falls and Curt Dahlstrom of Milledgeville.

Paternal grandparents are Chris Higley and Dan Grannan and Bruce Higley, all of Sterling.

Maternal great-grandparents are Regis and Lorraine Dahlstrom and James and Carole Lewis, all of Rock Falls.

Paternal great-grandmother is Carol Iben of Rock Falls.

Boden Michael Bordewick Kelly and Michael Bordewick of Normal are the parents of a son born at 10:55 a.m. March 4, 2015, at Advocate Bromenn Medical Center in Normal.

Boden Michael Bordewick weighed 10 pounds, 3 ounces at birth and was 21 inches in length.

He is welcomed by Brooke Lauren, 6, and Natalie Kathryn, 5.

Maternal grandparents are Denny and Lynda Bellows of Dixon.

Paternal grandparents are Ron and Karen Bordewick of Normal.

Maternal great-grandmothers are Elizabeth Jones and Dorothy Bellows, both of Dixon.

Monroe Dae Paufve Petra and Dan Paufve of Sterling are the parents of a daughter born at 9:44 a.m.

March 22, 2015, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Monroe Dae Paufve weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces at birth and was 20.5 inches in length.

She is welcomed by Petie, 8, and Ollie, 3.

Maternal grandparents are Becky and Al Dieterle of Sterling.

Paternal grandparents are Ronda and Geoff Paufve of Sterling.

Maternal great-grandparents are Erna and Kenny Hudson and Mary and Al Dieterle, all of Sterling.

Paternal great-grandparents are Lois Miller of Sterling and Jeannine and Eldred Paufve of Englewood, Florida.

Kameron James LeBarron Kayli LeBarron is the mother of a son born at 10:28 a.m. March 22, 2015, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Kameron James LeBarron weighed 6 pounds, 5 ounces at birth and was 22 inches in length.

Maternal grandparents are James LeBarron and Jen Meiners, both of Rock Falls.

Maternal great-grandparents are Jesse LeBarron of Tampico and Bob and Carla Wagner and Bill and Kathy Williamson, all of Rock Falls.

Evangeline Rose Juarez Claudia Delavara Juarez and Eric Juarez of Kaneohe, Hawaii, are the parents of a daughter born at 11:01 a.m.

March 16, 2015, at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu.

Evangeline Rose Juarez weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces at birth and was 20 inches in length.

She is welcomed by Saul Juarez, 17.

Maternal grandmother is Rosa Luevano of Chula Vista, California.

Paternal grandparents are Maria Marruffo of Mount Dora, Florida, and Marvin Juarez of Sterling.

Hazeleigh Anne Laidig Christiana Fuhri and Brandon Laidig of Rock Falls are the parents of a daughter born at 4:31 p.m.

March 19, 2015, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Hazeleigh Anne Laidig weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces at birth and was 20.5 inches in length.

Maternal grandparents are Suzanne Fuhri of Chicago and Drew Floyd of Jeffersonville, Indiana.

Paternal grandparents are Sheri and Devin Henry of Lyndon.

Maternal great-grandparents are Hazel FuhriMichalek and Robert Fuhri, both of Chicago.

Paternal great-grandparents are Connie and Andrew Laidig of Nelson.

Alano Manuel Anthony Lopez Maria Pope and Manuel Lopez of Sterling are the parents of a son born at 9:03 p.m. March 20, 2015, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Alano Manuel Anthony Lopez weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces at birth and was

RELAY KICK-OFF 20 inches in length.

Maternal grandparents are Anthony Pope and Jarris Holman, both of Sterling.

Paternal grandparents are Beatriz and Manuel Lopez Sr. of Sterling.

Chloe Jean Bonnell Chrysteena Pinkston and Dustin Bonnell of Rock Falls are the parents of a daughter born at 7:30 a.m.

March 20, 2015, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Chloe Jean Bonnell weighed 6 pounds, 1 ounce at birth and was 19 inches in length.

She is welcomed by Alexis Savannah Bonnell, 6.

Maternal grandmother is Kathy Frank of Sterling.

Paternal grandparents are June Granter of Woodland Shores and Tim Bonnell of Nelson.

Maternal great-grandparents are Jean Purvis of Olive Hill, Tennessee, and Paul Kaether of Lodi, Wisconsin.

Aaliyah Renee Scribner Shannon Mallory and Andy Scribner of Rock Falls are the parents of a daughter born at 8:40 p.m. March 23, 2015, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Aaliyah Renee Scribner weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce at birth and was 22 inches in length.

Maternal grandparents are Tracee McCarty and Chuck McCarty, both of Rock Falls.

Paternal grandparents are Tim Scribner of Milledgeville and Katrina Bystry of Coleta.

Isabella Rose Marie Green Trinity and Kyle Green of Thomson are the parents of a daughter born at 6:53 a.m. March 23, 2015, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Isabella Rose Marie Green weighed 7 pounds, 8.4 ounces at birth and was 21.5 inches in length.

She is welcomed by Averianah Green, 4.

Maternal grandparents are Darlene and Dave Liles of Preston, Iowa.

Paternal grandparents are James Green and Charlene Green, both of Morrison.

Maternal great-grandparents are Pat and Don McDermott of Clinton, Iowa, and Ralph and Brenda Liles of Camanche, Iowa.

Paternal great-grandparents are Jim and Pam Green of Sterling and Larry and Christine Dewitt of Morrison.

Bella Jean Smith Tiffany Powell and David Smith of Sterling are the parents of a daughter born at 6:12 p.m. March 22, 2015, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Bella Jean Smith weighed 6 pounds, 8 ounces at birth and was 20.5 inches in length.

She is welcomed by Courtney Russell, 26, Josh Smith, 24, Leah Powell, 3, and Brock Powell, 2.

Maternal grandparents are Marti and Mark Wood of Tampico.

Paternal grandparents are Diana and Tim Smith of Sterling.

Emersyn Amelia Simpson Kayla and William W. Simpson of Dixon are the parents of a daughter born at 1:20 p.m. March 22, 2015, at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.

Emersyn Amelia Simpson weighed 8 pounds, 6 ounces at birth and was 21 inches in length.

She is welcomed by Ella, 5, and Avery, 2.

Maternal grandparents are Tina Gallagher and Robert Gallagher, both of Dixon.

Paternal grandparents are Peg Simpson and William A. Simpson, both of Oregon.

Maternal great-grandmother is Maxine Lewis of Dixon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 9 a.m., closed, Big Book, United Methodist Church, 201 E. Chicago Ave., Davis Junction.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 9 a.m., open, women’s; noon, open; 6 p.m., open, 90-92 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 9 a.m., open, tradition; 12:30 p.m., closed; 7 p.m. closed (5), Bazaar Americana, 609 W. Third St., Sterling.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 9:30 a.m., former St. Anne Grade School, 32 N. Jones Ave., Amboy, 815-8572315.

Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous, 10:30 a.m., closed; 7 p.m., closed, 808 Freeport Road, Sterling.

The Kick-It Ticket Narcotics Anonymous, 11 a.m., basement, Fellows Street door, The Worship Center, 403 N. Ottawa Ave., Dixon, 815-440-7992.

Mercy Nursing Services free blood pressure clinic, 11 a.m.noon, Walmart, 1901 First Ave., Rock Falls.

Affliction of Addition Narcotics Anonymous, noon and 6 p.m., First Christian Church, 506 Fifth Ave., Rock Falls, 779-245-8214. Downstairs, west door.

Sauk Valley Alcoholics Anonymous Group, noon, open, Old School; 8 p.m., open, fun night, bring a friend, back door, 1503 First Ave., Rock Falls.

Mercy Nursing Services free blood pressure clinic, 1-2:30 p.m., Save-A-Lot, 928 First Ave., Rock Falls.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., open, First Presbyterian Church, 1100 Calvin Road, Rochelle.

Chapter 410 of the Experimental Aircraft Association, 7:30 p.m., terminal building, Whiteside County Airport, 10950 Hoover Road, Rock Falls, 815-626-1249.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., closed, Village of Progress, 710 S. 13th St., Oregon.

Monday Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 a.m., closed; 7 p.m., open, Rochelle

Community Hospital, 900 N. Second St. Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 a.m., closed; 11 a.m., open; 1 p.m., closed, Spanish; 7 p.m., closed, Bazaar Americana, 609 W. Third St., Sterling.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 9 a.m., closed; noon, open; 6 p.m., closed, step, 90-92 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 10 a.m., open, barn, Horizon View Farm, 2422 N. River Road, Oregon.

Sauk Valley Alcoholics Anonymous Group, 10 a.m., open, Big Book, back door, 1503 First Ave., 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., closed, 808 Freeport Road, Sterling.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., closed, clearance required, BAAbble on for Life Prison Group, 815-9736150.

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 Childhood immunization clinic; women, infants and children clinic; and family planning services, all by appointment only, Lee County Health Department, 309 S. Galena Ave., Suite 100, Dixon, 815284-3371.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 a.m., open, Methodist church, 402 First Ave., Forreston.

Abuse Changing team, 815-6250338.

Mercy Nursing Services free blood pressure clinic, 8:30-10:30 a.m., YMCA, 2505 YMCA Way, Sterling.

Dixon Rotary Club, noon, lower

level, St. Luke Episcopal Church, 221 W. Third St., Dixon.

Affliction of Addiction Narcotics Anonymous, noon, 6 p.m., First Christian Church, 506 Fifth Ave., Rock Falls, 779-245-3487. Downstairs, west side.

Alcoholics Anonymous, noon, closed (1), St. Paul Lutheran Church, 114 S. Fifth St., Oregon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, noon, closed, step; 6 p.m., open, 90-92 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, noon, closed, Big Book; 6 p.m., closed, Spanish; 7 p.m., open, Bazaar Americana, 609 W. Third St., Sterling.

Sauk Valley Alcoholics Anonymous Group, noon, open, Sunshine meeting, back door, 1503 First Ave., Rock Falls.

Tampico Community Club, noon, Good Times Tap, 106 Main St., Tampico, 815-438-2789.

Crochet-Knitting Club, 12:30 p.m., Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling.

Care for the Caregiver, 1:30 p.m., Home of Hope Cancer Wellness Center, 1637 Plock Road, Dixon, 815-288-4673.

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.

National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, 5 p.m., Sinnissippi Centers, 125 S. Fourth St., Oregon.

TOPS, 5 p.m. weigh-in, 5:30 p.m. meeting, Polo Church of the Brethren, 401 S. Congress Ave., Polo, 815-946-3638.

Dixon Arts and Cultural Affairs Commission, 5:45 p.m., Dixon Main Street office, 115 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon, 815-499-9426.

The Kick-It Ticket Narcotics Anonymous, 6 p.m., basement, Fellows Street door, The Worship Center, 403 N. Ottawa Ave., Dixon, 815-440-7992.

Celebrate Recovery, 6-8 p.m., 201 W. Market St., Morrison,

Relay For Life of Whiteside County recently had its “Relay Kick-Off” at Froggy’s Restaurant and Bar in Rock Falls. More than 80 people attended the event featuring two bands, food, and fellowship.

The Relay For Life of Whiteside County will be June 13 at Rock Falls High School Hinders Field, off 15th Avenue. Children’s activities will start at 3 p.m. with the relay from 6 to midnight. To register, a team call 800-277-2345. Photo submitted.

NEW MEMBER

Lillian Louann Sheaffer Amy and Kyle Sheaffer of Dixon are the parents of a daughter born at 1:48 p.m.

March 19, 2015, at KSB Hospital in Dixon.

Lillian Louann Sheaffer weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces at birth and was 20 inches in length.

She is welcomed by Charlotte, 2.

Maternal grandparents are Gordon and Faye Nicklaus of Dixon and the late Patricia Nicklaus.

Paternal grandparents are Jim Sheaffer and LouAnn Sheaffer, both of Dixon.

Information sought The birth announcements for Katelyn M. Figueroa Montes and Alia Johanna Finnicum-Rieck cannot be printed without additional information. The editorial department has been unable to reach the submitters. If those who submitted it could call 800-7984085, ext. 5501, it would be appreciated.

SUPPORT GROUPS, CLUBS, AND SERVICES Today

Saturday, April 4, 2015

815-590-8929.

Celebrate Recovery, 6-8 p.m., Revive Community Church, 8 E. Front St., Mount Morris, 815-9940428.

Rock Falls Rotary, 6 p.m., Beelendorf’s Deli, 204 W. 10th St., Rock Falls.

Caregiver Support Group, 6 p.m., Grace Fellowship Church, 2128 state Route 38, Ashton.

Dixon Veterans of Foreign Wars Men’s Auxiliary, 6 p.m., Dixon VFW Post 540, 1560 Franklin Grove Road, Dixon.

Rock Falls Boy Scout Troop 306, 6:30 to 8 p.m., fellowship hall, Harvest Time Bible Church, 1802 Dixon Ave., Rock Falls.

Dixon Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 540 Ladies Auxiliary, 6 p.m., 1560 Franklin Grove Road.

Amboy American Legion Post 453, 6:30 p.m., Community Room, Amboy Family Restaurant and Pizza, 211 E. Main St., 815-849-5219.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5418 Men’s Auxiliary, 7 p.m., 217 First Ave., Rock Falls, 815-6263513.

Dixon Elks Lodge 779 Auxiliary, 7 p.m., 1279 Franklin Grove Road, Dixon.

Mount Carroll Monday Night Al-Anon-Alateen, 7 p.m., Church of God, 816 Clay St., Mount Carroll.

Petunia City Quilters, 7 p.m., Loveland Community House, 513 W. Second St., Dixon, 815-6266627.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., closed, step study, New Hope Fellowship Church, 113 state Route 64, Kings.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., closed, 808 Freeport Road, Sterling.

Rock Falls American Legion Post 902, 7 p.m., 712 Fourth Ave., Rock Falls, 815-626-3862.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7:30 p.m., closed, St. Luke Episcopal Church, 207 W. Third St., Dixon.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., closed (3), First Presbyterian Church, 502 Third St., Savanna.

Sauk Valley Al-Anon GroupAlateen, 8 p.m., open, back door, 1503 First Ave., Rock Falls.

Twin Cities Sunrise Rotary members recently met.

Karen Reynolds (from left) welcomed Jennifer Zuithoff as a new member. Nyla Winchell is her sponsor. Photo submitted.

ROTARY BRIEFS Burn victim to speak at meeting

Members hear about renovations

DAVENPORT, Iowa – John O’Leary, international motivational speaker, will bring his story of lifelong perseverance from 9 to 11 a.m.

April 25 to the Mississippi River Hall in the River Center, 136 E. Third St. At age 9, O’Leary survived a fire that burned 100 percent of his body, leaving him with slim chances of survival.

His comeback story involved dozens of surgeries, years of therapies and the loss of all of his fingers.

The program is part of the annual Rotary conference.

The cost is $20. Go to tinyurl.com/oleary-rotary to register and pay.

STERLING – Michael Clark of the Twin Cities Sunrise Rotary welcomed Frank Rausa to a recent meeting.

Michael Rausa Clark spoke about restoring the Black Hawk statue and preserving Native Frank American Rausa history.

The Twin Cities Sunrise Rotary Club meets at 7 a.m. Thursday sat CGH Medical Center, 100 E. LeFevre Road.

Appeal to citizens issued by sheriff DIXON – In response to the increasing number of people wanting to assist law enforcement officials, and build a stronger partnership in the fight against crime, Lee County Sheriff John Simonton welcomes the community to join Illinois Sheriffs’ Association.

“With government funding becoming increasingly difficult to secure, the membership drive has taken on greater importance than ever before,” Simonton said.

“The funding is vital to helping us carry out our mission of making our communities safer places to live, work and play.”

The program has a “No Telemarketing” policy, and only sends invitations to citizens to become members by mail.

The cost is $25 for individuals and $50 for businesses.

The proceeds provide technical resources, training, and legislative support on key criminal justice issues.

Contributions are tax-

deductible. The membership program was formed to provide citizens with an opportunity to lend their support to more effective law enforcement and to help local law enforcement officers protect the lives and property of citizens.

“As the need for building stronger public-private law enforcement partnerships in this country continues to escalate, programs such as this continue to grow in importance,” he said.

“I encourage everyone receiving a membership appeal to consider joining forces with us by becoming an Associate Member.

It is a valuable investment in the future.”

For more information, contact the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association at 401 E Washington, Suite 1000 Springfield, IL 62701; ilsheriff.org or 217-7532372. Residents also can become members of the program by contacting the sheriff’s office at leecountyil.com or 815284-6631.

Saturday, April 4, 2015

www.saukvalley.com

SV Weekend • C7

West Carroll FFA Proficiency members advance to state GENESEO – West Carroll High School FFA members from Savanna won at the March 11 District 1 Proficiency Awards Ca re e r D e v e l o p m e n t Event at Geneseo High School.

Rachel Dykstra won in poultry production, Daniel Hartman in wildlife production and management, and Cameron Ehlers in emerging ag technology.

They will compete in the state competition today at the University of Illinois Campus in Urbana.

Other members were Glenn Hoffman, ag processing; Kyah Mull, ag sales; Josi Anderson, diversified horticulture; Christy Ralston, equine science; Bailey Durward, Photo submitted by Don Mathey forage production; Kristen Houzenga, nursery Gengenbach, Adam Bra- ton, Stan Toepfer, Drew operations; Ashley Hunt, Natalie O’Connor, spe- veterinary science. safety; Brianna Kamp- cialty crop production; The judges included umbaugh, Jack Nickels, Dur ward, Don Metz, meier, sheep production; and Contessa Ehlers, Curtis Breuning, Mark Mark Dykstra, Fred Tip- Trevor Volz, Tessa Sibley,

The District 1 Proficiency Awards Career Development Event was March 11 at Geneseo High School. West Carroll High School FFA members from Savanna are (front row, from left) Cameron Ehlers, Bailey Durward, Josi Anderson, Contessa Ehlers, Brianna Kampmeier, and Natalie O’Connor; and (back row) Daniel Hartman, Glenn Hoffman, Kyah Mull, Christy Ralston, Ashley Hunt, Kristen Houzenga, and Rachel Dykstra.

Art Houzenga, Dylan Williams, Dan Hartman, and Don Mathey,

INFORMED FARMERS

The Informed Farmers Coalition, representing dozens of farm and rural living families in northern Bureau County and southern Lee County, will donate $5,000 to the Bureau Valley FFA Tractor Restoration and Agricultural Education Building Project. At the presentation are (from left) Ron Pierson, Greg Gonigam, Kendall Guither, Annika Carter, Chase Gripp, Blaine Peterson, Trey Dale, Kristyn Ehnle, Jay Norden, Drew Fordham, Hunter Schoff, Jay Edlefson, Julia Edlefson, Rick Lootens, and Willard Mott. This, and previous donations, helped the Bureau Valley High School FFA in Manlius qualify for a matching grant of $10,000 from Alliance Pipeline through the Illinois Foundation FFA. The new agriculture building will be used to store and display tractors which have been restored by FFA members. The building also will be used to facilitate agricultural education activities throughout the year. Photo submitted by Mott.

HONOR ROLLS Eastland Junior High School, Lanark High Honors Eighth grade: Kaden Henze, McKayla Martz, Gabrielle Snyder, Andrew Stengel, and Haley Wilson.

Seventh grade: Lydia Coatney, Erin Henze, Merdedith Janssen, Macy Misiewicz, Daniel Sauer, and Kaitlyn Wilczynski.

Honors Eighth grade: Chloe Anderson, Erica Dambman, Justus Dobish, Nathan Erbsen, Tyler Etchberger, Kira Finifrock, Kaden Henze, Elizabeth Kloepping, Judd Lessman, McKayla Martz, Alban Seferi, Jedediah Smith, Gabrielle Snyder, Andrew Stengel, Jake Thede, and Tucker Welch.

Seventh grade: Angelica Acosta, Shelby Beyers, Lane Christians, Brock Coatney, Elijah Dertz, Jenna Green, Kaylee Hammer, Samuel Hayag, Emily Heller, Rebecca Kempel, Ira Markley, Claire Mitchell, Emma Norton, Alexandra Popowski, Jack Randecker, Stephen Reifsteck, Danielle Rush, Zachary Solomon, Bryson Sturtevant, Anna Wilhelm, Theodore Woessner, and Alexander York.

St. Mary Elementary and Junior High School, Dixon High Honors Eighth grade: Chloe Klein, Mary Powers, and Emily Schaab.

Seventh grade: Nate

Ahlers, Connor McBride, Maggie Oswalt, and Madelyn Ryan.

Sixth grade: Jake Ackman, Anna Whelan, and Jackie Yeager.

Honors Eighth grade: Drew Ackman, Julia Ardis, Isaac Blaney, Zoe Carr, Hannah Dixon, Collin Hoy, Sean Lahey, Patrick Powers, and Lexi Wetter.

Seventh grade: Nick Clevenger, Dean Ellorando, Luke Ely, Noah Grot, Charlotte McCoy, Avery Meyer, Jonathan Rhodes, John Simpson, Jaxson Schabacker, and Sierra Williams.

Sixth grade: Madisyn Bock. Caitlin Foust. Brynlee Hermeyer. Gabe Hunsberge, Luke Jungerman.

Sophia Propheter. Brady Stevens, and Noah Welty.

Aidan Langley, Breanna Morgan, Easton Morgan, Autumn Nelson, Owen Pillars, Mallory Pinske, Alaina Schreiner, Devin Schultz, Cadence Stonitsch, Hailey Vos, and Katie Witherow.

Sixth grade: Luke Akerman, Connor Bryant, Tyler Buckingham, Joshua Howard, Cailin Kyarsgaard, Jadyn Osborne, Savannah Pinske, and Madison Thatcher.

Seventh grade: Madison Arickx, Alaura Busch, Emma Frank, Lilian Gaulrapp, Audra Goff, Evan Laws, Lauren Moeller, Erin Porter, Perry Ports, and Spencer Schutz.

Eighth grade: Alec Akerman, Nickolas Eddinger, Matthew Laws, Tommi Myers, MacKenzie Olson, Devon Summers, and Alfred Sutton.

Honors Third grade: Bria Cross, Montmorency Jayce Eriks, Aydan Goff, School, Rock Falls Kash Janssen, Sophia High Honors Moeller, Nathan Riddle, Third grade: Carter Denali Stonitsch, Roman Bertolozzi, Claire Bickett, Vega, Colby Ward, and Grace Boostrom, Maison Hannah Woodyatt.

Brandt, Ava Henson, Zoe Fourth grade: Paetyn Henson, Devonte Knight, Adams, Colin Cook, Abram Carli Kobbeman, SamanDale, Aidan Kobbeman, tha Limond, Samantha Zoe Morgan, Madison MulNailor, Carmindy Ordean, nix, Tyson Newton LangOlivia Osborne, Taylor ley, Jaron Russell, Katie Reyna, and Nicolette Udell. Thatcher, Ezmeralda Vega, Fourth grade: Makenna Nicholas Vickers, Jace Arickx, Elizabeth ArmYanes, and Kyle Young. strong, Kade Boostrom, Fifth grade: Noah AnderJordan Bryant, Molly Hack- son, Haley Bush, Austin barth, Brooke Howard, Cernich, Emma Cunniff, Emily Lego, Makenzi Parks, Bryce Devers, Cooper Brady Richards, Jacee Hewitt, Braxton Law, JasSigel, Kalina Sommer, Lily- mine Mills, Paige Mulnix, ana Spotts, and Montana Dawson Newendyke, Sutton.

Joseph Parent, Madison Fifth grade: Brady Baker, Robbings, Alexandra Booker Cross, Meg Frank, Royer, Shayla Schmall, and Calin Gaulrapp, Cara Goff, Sloan Schutz.

Betsy Leonard, and Allison Winkel.

Seniors: Arian Casey, Aaron Field, Thomas Hand, Brandi Pessman, and Jaclyn Toureene.

Honor Roll Freshmen: Marina Annoreno, Hope Belonga, Alex Bielema, Tyler Bruggenwirth, Samantha Carpenter, Sade Carter, Hunter Collachia, Garrett Decker, Hannah Eads, Tori Edfors, Leo Ernst, Ethan Fish, Nicole Flesch, Dakota Ford, Wyatt Ford, Baylee Gooch, Carolyn Graham, Morgan Griebel, Cade Hansen, Devon Hartman, Tony Heinitz, Alison Huisenga, Brooke Huizenga, Racheal Huizenga, Megan James, Andrew Knudsen, Tiffany Lamp, Jarek Leonhardt, Brody Mason, Nathan McLuckie, Alyssa Milder, Pierre Mure-Ravaud, Erik North, Matthew Outzen, Timothy Outzen, Evelyn Ramirez, Austin Rash, Rachel Rojas, Cody Sanderson, Jensen Schrader, Alec Schroeder, Katelyn Shepard, Jason Sikkema, Jesse Singh, Konner Stoecker, Phoebe Fulton High School Tiesman, Alyssa VanKamHigh Honors pen, Faith VanKampen, Freshmen: Rhett Madison Whitmore, Jesse Merema, Michael MorWhitten, Lindsey Wiebenrison, Jenna Schrader, ga, Nate Wierema, and Seth Sikkema, Rebecca Drayton Williams-Davis.

Wiersema, and Abbygale Sophomores: Cole Willging.

Grant, Allison Green, Tyler Sophomores: Rachel Green, Adam Hodge, Barber, Taylor Curley, Paula Israel, Katherine KelMegan Frick, Emma ley, Faith Kennedy, Robert Jacobs, Rikki King, Alex Kerr, Amber Maze, Cole Martin, Maryssa McCunn, McClary, MiKayla MedenLauren Spencer, Emma dorp, Samuel Norman, VanZuiden, Taylor VanAllie Olsen, Tyler Paulline, Zuiden, and Hillary Winkel. Robert Poore, Paige Portz, Juniors: Carly BergerJordan Price, Shelby Puckhouse, Roane Hand, ett, Avery Qualman, Travis

Sixth grade: Madelyn Cochran, Chloe Cook, Cheyenne Duchay, Jeriah George, Ainsleigh Hendrix, Avery Johnson, Jordan Morthland, Lane Near, Cara Orban, Thomas Over, Kylie Pottorff, Tyler Richards, Conner Sutton, Peyton Ward, Madison Wescott, Cadence Wheat, Kylie Witherow, and Logan Young.

Seventh grade: Jalen Bickett, Logan Bryant, Megan Christensen, Camryn Johnson, Kilie Law, Alyssa Mathews, Elise Moeller, Josie Rank, Jared Rasmussen, Shannon Weir, Cindy Williams, and Abby Workman/ Eighth grade: Sonia Ahsmann, Cameron Anderson, Dylan Bush, Jessica Clevenger, Miranda Hewitt, Brody Ivey, Taya Jones, Ashli McGrath, Andrew McNinch, Matthew Moeller, Elizabeth Reinhardt, Emma Reinhardt, Austin Sandrock, Hannah Schultz, Jenna Valdivia, Glen Wicks, Keyon Wolber, and Payton Yanes.

Renn, Hayle Schrader, Logan Sipe, Jace Snyder, Taylor Tubbs, Brittnay VanOosten, Cassie VanZuiden, Ashley Waldorf, Cameron Ward, Dustin Williams-Davis, and Whitney Wynkoop.

Juniors: Kyle Alstead, Tayler Birkett, Jared Charneski, Olivia Daley, Zach Dermody, Ben Fanderclai, Sam Fanderclai, Sean Ford, Rodney Gossard, Sam Grant, Kim Holland, Storm Hoover, Camerin Huizenga, Christian Hutchison, Averi Leitzen, Austin Lind, Michayla Martin, Mackenna Munson, Sebastien Mure-Ravaud, Kegan North, Jacob Outzen, Delaney Reed, Trey Simmons Simran, Singh, Brooke Smith, Sarah Stephan, Dylan Temple, and Nicole Vanderploeg.

Seniors: Audrey Armstrong, Steven Balk, Zach Barber, Jacob Bielema, Isabel Borgman, Bonnie Coleman, Cassie Dersham, Bre Eissens, Alexis Heinitz, Catharina Hillje, Colin Houzenga, Kyle Huebner, Jamie Huennekens, Tanner Huisenga, Kaylie Huizenga, Autumn Hutton, Jenna James, Brevin Mason, Jennifer Matje, Kyle Matthews, Brody May, Maddie McFarren, Paul Mendoza, Jamie Parsons, Justin Petersen, Collin Puckett, Seth Sanderson, Justin Shaffer, Kirsten Stage, Lyndsey Tegeler, Dezi Wade, Elisabeth Wagenecht, Lucas Wiebenga, and Victoria Wiest.

COLLEGE HONORS UW – Whitewater WHITEWATER, Wis. – Megan Kinney of Sterling has been named a 2014-15 global ambassador at the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater.

Global ambassadors are Center for Global Education interns who mentor and give program support

to new undergraduate international students.

UW – Platteville PLATTEVILLE, Wis. – Marissa Morales of Byron, Cassandra Heusinkveld of Morrison, and Lynea Axelson of Oregon were added to the February fall chancellor’s list at the University of

Wisconsin – Platteville.

Monmouth College MONMOUTH – Allison DeArvil of Dixon has been named a Scot Ambassador at Monmouth College.

Scot Ambassadors provide tours and presentations to visiting

students about college life, and answer questions.

Life University

MSC honors. To be nominated a student must obtain sophomore academic status and a minimum 3.25 GPA.

MARIETTA, Ga. – Garrett Webb Educators of Beauty of Dixon, a student at Life UniApril Donegan of Mount Morris versity, was one of 28 Mid-South graduated from the Educators of Conference wrestling studentBeauty Cosmetology Program. athletes to earn Academic All

C8 • SV Weekend

www.saukvalley.com

Saturday, April 4, 2015

‘The answer could be anywhere’ PUZZLES

CONTINUED FROM C1

Here, however, anything could be a clue.

As soon as they enter, the group begins taking down wall hangings, flipping over rugs and leafing through books to find the clues hidden on or in them. It’s up to them to figure out which are real and which are red herrings.

The group receives three hints to use when they get stuck putting together the number and letter combinations to several locks, each of

which opens a box containing further clues.

“It’s all brain power, and the more closely you work together, the better chance you have of escaping,” Henderson told the team.

Laura Jennings-Mitchell, clinical director at ABC Counseling and Family Services in Normal, said “The Office” helped bring her team of five together when they visited it in December.

“I wanted the opportunity to take them out and work together but still have a fun aspect to it,” Jennings-Mitchell said. “We’ve been back

[once] since. ... ABC Counseling has offices throughout Central Illinois and the plan is to do a team-building activity there for all six of our offices.”

In addition to their educational value, puzzle rooms have caught on as a gaming trend: The Washington Post, CNBC and Gizmodo have published stories about their emergence over the past 18 months.

Team Pens to Lens, a group of friends and gamers, traveled to Escape Bloomington because local puzzle rooms are hard to find,

Supply has remained flat ORGANIC

Tribune News Service

Mark Wickenhauser (right) milks a cow as he speaks with one of his hired hands, Sawyer Sutherland, during an early morning at the Cologne, Minnesota, farm. that has been certified as organic and meets all federal regulations. That means it’s from cows that eat organic feed and that are not given hormones, antibiotics or other unapproved medication. It also means that the cows eat in a pasture for at least 120 days a year and do not feed on anything grown from genetically modified seeds or that has been sprayed with pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.

One reason for the rapid growth of organic dairy sales is that the largest grocery chains – responding to consumer interest – are now selling it, said Organic Valley Vice President of Farmer Affairs Travis Forgues.

“I can’t tell you enough what it matters to have a Costco or a Target or a Wal-Mart really embrace organics,” he said. “It’s a demand drive on an amount of milk that’s just not there right now.”

That may be good news for the organic dairy industry, Forgues said, but it’s also causing disruptions and changes.

Moynihan said that dairy farmers, organic and nonorganic, typically have a relationship with a single buyer, such as a cooperative or a cheese manufacturer.

The largest buyers of Minnesota organic milk are Organic Valley of La Farge, Wisconsin; Westby Cooperative Creamery of southwestern Wisconsin; and Horizon, owned by a Colorado firm. The companies process the milk

into fluid milk, cheese, yogurt and other dairy products that make their way to consumers in grocery stores.

Organic Valley, founded in southwestern Wisconsin in 1988, is the largest organic dairy cooperative in the nation with more than 1,800 farmer members, most of them dairy producers.

While demand is up, the supply of organic milk from co-op farmers has stayed fairly flat for the last few years – for several reasons, Forgues said.

Generally high prices for conventional milk have kept those dairies in profits, he said, with little incentive to switch to organic. Higher prices for organic feed also tightened profit margins and made it more difficult for some organic dairies to stay in business, he said. And as baby boomer organic farmers retire, Forgues said, the high price of land and other costs often mean that conventional dairy owners seeking to expand, not organic producers, are the ones who can afford to buy.

Wickenhauser, who milks 42 cows and grows alfalfa and grasses on about 5 acres, said it took 5 years for him to convert to organic, and he’s glad he made the change.

“I was seeing a lot of breakdowns and health problems with the cows, and my fertility on the fields was all based on advice from other sources, rather than knowing it for myself,” he said.

Must factor in risk with investments RAMSEY

CONTINUED FROM C1

You’ve got a great heart, and I’m glad you care enough about your dad to try to help him. But in this scenario, I think he needs to talk to someone like a pastor, or even an older relative or good friend closer to his own age – a guy with a little more life experience.

Maybe you could talk to people like this and explain what your dad is going through. Ask them to talk to him, and see whether he’ll open up to some new ideas.

In the meantime, just be there for him and show all the support you can. You’re a good son, Ryan.

– Dave

Just a theory ...

Dear Dave, Let’s say you have $1 million in the bank.

Why would you take out $300,000 to buy a house, instead of just making a 20 percent down payment and keeping the rest of the money in mutual funds to make more money? If need be, I could still pay off the house.

– Alex Dear Alex, Interesting question.

OK, I’m game.

The spread that you’d make between even a highinterest rate mortgage – let’s say 6 percent – and mutual funds at 11 percent or so, is about 5 percent.

And that’s assuming nothing goes wrong, and you can get your mutual fund

out if needed.

What you’re talking about is theory, and what I’m talking about is actual life. In your theory you’ve left out two major issues: paying taxes on the mutual fund, which would make your yield less, and risk. You’ve compared a zero-risk investment with a risk investment, and you shouldn’t do that.

You must factor in risk so you can accurately compare one investment to another.

Every time you pay off a mortgage, the bank no longer charges you interest. That’s zero risk compared to a mutual fund, which does have risk.

Remember, if your house was paid for you wouldn’t borrow $300,000 against it to invest in mutual funds.

– Dave

AP

Becky Nicol (from left), Chris Lukeman, Andrew Christensen and Keith Hollenkamp pick word phrases for celebration photos after completing a team-building exercise in a puzzle room at Escape Bloomington in Bloomington.

Astrograph Don’t be caught off- guard Sunday, April 5, 2015 Make a point to have some fun.

Let go of the relationships that stand between you and success.

Surround yourself with intelligent peers who appreciate your fine qualities. You will feel as though a weight has been lifted from your shoulders if you start moving in a positive direction.

CONTINUED FROM C1

“I am hearing from just about everybody that supply is very tight, that all of the dairy processing companies are looking for new farmers, and that they’re having trouble filling their orders with retailers,” she said.

Luke Friedrich, spokesman for grocer Cub Foods, said demand for organic products is strong at Cub’s 76 stores in Minnesota. In January, the company expanded its Wild Harvest organic line and shelf space, he said, because customers want more organic products.

Most Cub stores have two or more cases of organic milk, Friedrich said, in addition to organic butter, eggs and other products.

“Organic milk is a major item for us right now,” he said. “There are days when it’s a challenge for us to ensure that we can maintain inventory of our Wild Harvest milk on the shelf just due to the high demand.”

The stores haven’t had problems with empty shelves, he said, but managers need to keep close track of organic inventory.

(Organic milk is not raw milk, because it is pasteurized.)

Cub is a division of Eden Prairie-based Supervalu Inc., and Friedrich said the uptick in organic dairy sales also is true in the other retail chains that Supervalu owns.

But even with its growing popularity, organic milk represents only about 5 percent of the total milk produced nationally in 2014, according to federal estimates. As far as prices, the retail cost of organic milk is about twice that of conventional milk. For example, in late March the national average price for a half gallon of milk was $1.76 for conventional milk and $3.44 for organic milk, according to the USDA. What consumers get for the extra cost is milk

Christensen said. “The Office” was the first puzzle room for him and teammate, Thomas Nicol.

“I like playing escape games on tablet, but being in person is very different,” Nicol said. “[On tablet], if you can click on something, you know it works. Here, the answer could be anywhere.”

Henderson said the business rotates rooms to encourage even frequent visitors to return. Nicol said Team Pens to Lens probably will come back.

“There are still a lot of challenges left to do,” Christensen said.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- Your hard work will pay off. Promote what you have to offer and present your skills with confidence. Be assertive, and focus on others’ expectations and the success you desire.

TAURUS (April 20May 20) -- If you feel stuck in your current position, rethink your goals and plans. Giving in to fear or doubt will not lead to success or happiness.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- Upgrade your skills and increase your knowledge through seminars, an apprenticeship or research. The road to your perfect future will turn out to be shorter than you think.

CANCER (June 21July 22) -- You need to take better

care of your mental and physical health. Get adequate rest and good nutrition. Say no to the demands of others, and recharge your batteries.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Actions speak louder than words. Your determination and hard work is well-known, and will lead to greater admiration and attention from others.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept.

22) -- Don’t be caught off-guard.

Make preparations for the week ahead in order to avoid nervewracking last-minute decisions. If you are organized and collected, you will be an asset for others.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -- Diplomacy and tact will have others eating out of your hand. Plan to do something special with someone you love. Don’t be surprised if an old friend tries to reconnect. Proceed with caution.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22) -- You have the drive and determination to make it to the top. Versatility and adaptability will be key factors in your success.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- Someone will misinterpret your easygoing nature and try to take advantage of you.

Express clearly what you will and will not do. Stick to your principles and don’t jeopardize your reputation.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Don’t feel obligated to keep up with others. If you stick to your schedule, you will do just fine. Trying to maintain an unrealistic pace will wear you out physically and emotionally.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) -- A personal relationship appears to be gaining momentum.

Planning a fun trip will add a spark of romance and adventure to your personal life. Enjoy the moment and make your intentions clear.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) -- You’ll have trouble making up your mind. Don’t make a long-term commitment, and refrain from negotiation until you are certain of the terms and conditions that are important to you.

See Today’s Classified Section for Crossword Answers

Saturday, April 4, 2015

www.saukvalley.com

SV Weekend • C9

RIBBON CUTTINGS

CGH Medical Center, 100 E. Lefevre Road, Sterling, had an open house March 24 for the new construction of the emergency room. Pictured (in no particular order) are Dr. Paul Steinke; Sterling Mayor Skip Lee; Rock Falls Mayor Bill Wescott; Cindy Zander; CGH staff; Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce ambassadors and board members; and Rock Falls Chamber of Commerce ambassadors. Photos submitted by SVACC. Bard Optical, 3209 E. Lincolnway, Sterling, had a ribboncutting ceremony March 19 in honor of its New Member, Patient Appreciation Day for 25 years of service. At the ceremony were (in no particular order) SVACC ambassadors; Cara Ebersole and Bard staff; and Keri Olson of the Sterling-Rock Falls Family YMCA in Sterling.

May 1 deadline set for specialty crop grant applications SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Agriculture has been awarded specialty grant money.

The agency will receive more than $600,000 to begin the proposal selection process.

“For many Illinoisans, specialty crops not only

provide vital nutrition, but also are a primary source of income,” Philip Nelson, director, said.

“The fruits, vegetables and nuts grown on our state’s farmland will provide Illinois families with access to fresh, healthy food. In addition to the availability

of Illinois-grown produce, these grants can help enhance a grower’s profitability and sustainability.”

The money will come from the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program in the Farm Bill. It is available for projects that solely enhance the com-

petitiveness of Illinoisgrown specialty crops in either domestic or foreign markets.

Projects that benefit a particular commercial product or provide a profit to a single organization, institution or individual are ineligible.

Farmers markets,

etables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture.

The IDOA will accept grant proposals until 4 p.m. May 1.

Go to agr.state.il.us for application forms or call 217-524-9129 for more information.

RNA DONATION

IN BRIEF Morrison woman attends meeting

Assistant training course to be offered

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Michelle B. BuckwalterSchurman, president of the Illinois Federation of Republican Women, of Morrison, attended the March 19 National Federation of Republican Women’s Legislative Day in Washington.

While there, she was elected to the NFRW’s Nominating Committee.

More than 30 representatives and senators spoke at the event.

MORRISON – Resthave Retirement & Nursing Home will have an open house from 1 to 3 p.m.

April 12 at 408 Maple Ave. The public is welcome to a walk-through of the new 70-room nursing area.

ROCHELLE – SterlingNorthwestern Illinois Center for Independent Living will have a personal assistant class.

Methods and processes to help consumers live more independently in their own homes will be discussed.

This course is mandatory for obtaining a place on the NICIL registry.

There is a $15 fee for a background check.

Upon the successful completion of the background check and application, the participant will be welcome to attend the next class from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. May 5 at Rochelle Community Hospital, 900 N. Second St. Contact NICIL at nicil.org or 8165-625-7860 for an application and more information about the class.

NCI employees earn recognition

Directors to make theater updates

The Northwest Central Illinois Works honored Caitlin Holt of Rochelle and Jenna Wolber of Rock Falls with an Individual Achievement Award.

Each honoree utilized the programs and services available through the Business Employment Skills Team to get job-search help or find occupational training.

Emlee Dooley of West Brooklyn received an NCI Works Special Recognition Award.

She was recognized for her leadership and contributions to the Youth Council and Workforce Development Activities in Local Workforce Area 4, which includes Bureau, Carroll, Jo Daviess, LaSalle, Lee, Ogle, Putnam, and Whiteside counties.

MOUNT CARROLL – Timber Lake Playhouse has appointed Dan Danielowski of Byron, executive director.

Danielowski began in December, joining James Beaudry, artistic director, in leading Dan the company Danielowski into its 54th season.

Danielowski and Beaudry plan to improve facilities for the 50 artists who live and work on the theater’s campus each year, broaden opportunities for volunteers, and address improvements in audience services.

A new paid apprentice program for teens also is in the works.

Open house for new wing planned

roadside stands, and community-sponsored agriculture programs can submit proposals to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program.

The USDA Marketing Service defines specialty crops as fruits, veg-

Tampico Royal Neighbors of America Chapter 1570 purchased and donated items for residents at Rock River Garden in Sterling. With the toothpaste, toothbrushes, washcloths, shampoo, body wash, deodorant, tissues, and DVDs are (from left) Avis Rosenow, Adrian Lind, Shirley Lester, Alice Grimes, and Arlene Johnson, RNA members, with Patricia B., president of the Rock River Garden Resident Council. Photo submitted by Lester.

EXTENSION BRIEFS Finance course to start in Oregon

knowledge of the beef, sheep, swine, dairy, and equine industry.

An annual contest The Ogle County Uniat the state fair tests versity of Illinois Extenyouth on project knowlsion will have a variety edge through judging of workshops during contests, skill stations, Money Smart Week, management tests, meat April 19-25. identification tests, and “Can Money Really quality assurance testGrow on Trees?” will be ing. The top five conoffered at 2 p.m. April 19 Ag scholarships in each species at Mount Morris Public applicants sought testants receive a $1,000 college Library, 104 S. McKendrie Ave., 815-734Archer Daniels Midland scholarship.

The company also 4927; 5:30 p.m. April 20 Co. recently donated awarded Container Garat Polo Public Library, $25,000 to the Illinois den Grants. Carl Erbsen 302 W. Mason St., 815- 4-H Foundation to sup946-2713; and 6 p.m. port the Superior Young of Eastland ElemenApril 21 at Byron Public Producer Award College tary School in Shannon received a grant to use Library, 100 S. Washing- Scholarship Program. in his classroom. He will ton St., 815-234-5107.

Each year, 25 college Ogle County Master scholarships are award- receive reusable gardenGardeners will present ed to 4-H and FFA mem- ing materials, including bers who excel in their tips on types of trees to an EarthBox container, choose, planting procedures, tree maintenance, and the savings that can be made on energy bills.

The workshops are open to the public. For more information, contact the extension office at edu/bdo or 815-7322191.

money for soil and seed, and educational agrelated books and lessons.

For more information, contact Angie Barnard, Illinois 4-H Foundation, executive director, at 217-333-9295.

Livestock team members named Ryan Reeverts of the By-Y-Badgers 4-H Club in Byron and Mary Francque of the Milledgeville Hotshots 4-H Club have been named to the first State 4-H Livestock Ambassador Team.

The IAA Foundation will initially fund the efforts of the team.

Travel

Saturday, April 4, 2015

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SV Weekend • C10

Tribune News Service photos

A young festivalgoer learns about the migration of the Monarch butterfly at Epcot’s butterfly garden at the 2015 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival in Orlando, Florida.

Gardens to go goofy over Flowers and topiaries galore at Epcot festival

BY MARJIE LAMBERT Tribune News Service

C

leared of millions of plants that were put on display for the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, the greenhouses at the Walt Disney World nursery behind Animal Kingdom look like they’ve been looted.

What’s left are laterblooming plants that will be set out when the first group starts to fade, plants and hanging baskets intended for other parks, a test plot of bedding flowers, a few other odds and ends and lots of empty growing space.

About 35 million plants a year are used throughout Disney World, many of them at this festival.

They’re in flower beds, pots, hanging baskets, flower towers, floating gardens, specialty gardens, the butterfly house, at the base of trees they can climb – just about any place you can imagine.

Along with the blooms are workshops and seminars, educational gardens (medicinal plants, growing in small spaces, how to provide wildlife habitat), a butterfly house that explains the migration of Monarch butterflies, weekend concerts and Mike & Sulley’s Monstrous Garden, a children’s play area. Eleven “outdoor kitchens” sell appetizer-size servings of food. Each kitchen also has a small garden that grows ingredients used in that stand’s dishes and emphasizes the link between food and gardening.

For many parkgoers, though, the plants and programs are just background for the real stars of the festival: more than 100 Disney character topiaries.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse appear as farmers in an American Gothic-

like pose, complete with pitchfork. A 14-foot Goofy stands at the entrance, tangled in a garden hose.

Anna and Elsa of “Frozen” make their debut appearance. So do Chip ’n’ Dale, caught in the act of stealing Donald Duck’s carrots.

Cinderella and Prince Charming dance near the France Pavilion. Lightning McQueen and Mater of “Cars” are on the Cactus Road Rally walkway.

All over Epcot, people get their pictures taken in front of topiaries.

Sometimes, so many are waiting that there’s a line.

Many come just for that – and for the food and beverage sales that were added three festivals back, an idea borrowed from the popular Epcot Wine & Food Festival.

“We come for the food more than the gardens,” said Casey of Fort Meade, who didn’t want her last name used. “But we did take pictures of the ‘Cars’ thing,” she said, gesturing in the direction of Cactus Road Rally.

Others are more interested in the gardening aspects.

“I like looking at all the flowers and topiaries, and walking through the butterfly tent,” said Jennifer King of Orlando.

“The flowers and topiaries are just gorgeous.”

Fans might not realize all that the nursery staff does to get that look – the park spilling over with colorful, perfectly groomed gardens.

The festival starts in early March, and although Orlando has a growing climate similar to South Florida’s, there’s still danger of frost. Few of the blooms are coldhardy, so the staff covers plants and topiaries with military surplus parachutes in a cold snap.

Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival When: The 22nd annual festival runs through May 17.

Epcot is open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., although the World Showcase part of the park doesn’t open until 11 a.m. Concerts, cooking demonstrations and garden seminars are weekends only.

Cost: A 1-day Epcot pass is $97; a children’s ticket, ages 3-7, is $91. Most festival activities are included with park admission.

Most dishes from the Outdoor Kitchens are in the $4-$8 range.

Farmers Mickey and Minnie Mouse welcome people to the festival.

This year, because there were so many cloudy days, flowers were slow to bloom and some arrangements were not ready for the start of the festival.

The festival runs for 75 days, to May 17 this year, and there’s a seasonal change about halfway through. Cool-weather plants may bolt and go to seed when the days get hot. Much of what remains in the greenhouses are heat-tolerant replacement plants, to be set out later.

Kathy and John Wolfenden moved from New Hampshire to Central Florida 3 years ago but say they’ve been coming to the festival since it began. They love the flowers and the art on display. “Now that I’m living in a condo, I love the container gardens,” Kathy Wolfenden said. “They’re really pretty this year.”

Eric Darden, the festival’s horticultural manager, says the second most frequent question guests ask during the festival is about container garden-

ing, especially how to put together mixed plantings in baskets and pots. No. 3 is about growing vegetables.

And the No. 1 question?

The Disney topiaries. Not that visitors want to go home and make one like they do with the containers, Darden says, but they have a lot of questions about them.

The topiaries are not simply bushes pruned in the shape of a character.

They are custom-made wire forms stuffed with sphagnum moss and covered with plants, mosses, seeds and other materials – mostly shades of green, but also browns, russets and yellows.

Traditionally, human characters such as the princesses have had featureless green faces. But last year, Disney tried something new. The face is sculpted, a mold is made and the new mask is covered with a thin layer of moss that is painted. Eyes, eyebrows, lips and other features are painted on as well.

It is an expensive and time-consuming process – the masks for Anna and Elsa were started last July and finished just days before the festival opened – so the topiaries are not all being changed at once, Darden said.

Cinderella and Belle still have faces of green ficus, no lips, no eyes.

The festival began in 1994 as a way to bring in more people during the slow weeks on either side of spring break, and to appeal to serious gardeners who might otherwise not go to a theme park. Since then, it has doubled in length, from 38 days to 75.

Disney does not make its attendance figures public, but Josh Humphrey, owner and site operator of easywdw. com, which tracks crowds at the parks, says the fall Wine & Food Festival has a much more dramatic impact on Epcot attendance than the garden festival, although the addition of the food stands in 2013 has helped boost attendance.

Free concerts are being held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday this year, with a new singer or group performing on each of the festival’s 11 weekends.

In 2013, Disney added the outdoor kitchens, but with garden produce more heavily emphasized than at the food festival. About 30 dishes are offered during the garden festival compared to more than 100 during the Wine & Food Festival, and organizers make a point of creating different menus for the two festivals.

One of the new kitchens this year is Urban Farm Eats, which features a kale salad with dried cherries, almonds and goat cheese; a quinoa vegetable “Naanwich” with arugula pesto; and tilapia with winter melon slaw and mint oil. Next to it is a garden that produces many of the ingredients, including a pyramid-like tower of herb plants.

“In the years we’ve been doing this, it’s the best garden I’ve seen,” Darden said. “It shows people how they can grow food they can eat, and do it in a small space.”

Saturday, April 4, 2015

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SV Weekend • C11

EXTENSION ACTIVITIES

The University of Illinois Extension Whiteside County 4-H Federation members teamed up with the Self Help Tigers 4-H Club to make fleece tie-blankets for CGH Medical Center’s pediatrics department in Sterling. Federation members, youth 12 and older, from all Whiteside County 4-H clubs meet once a month and plan service and fun activities. Photos submitted.

A robotics workshop for youth ages 9-12 was March 14. Participants learned about basic robotic skills, robot construction, and watched a 3-D printer create solid objects. They also built solo cup robots with other materials and drew swirling circles on the paper-covered tables. The group then explored Lego robotics, and in teams, built a robot and programmed it to drive in different directions. For more information on the Whiteside 4-H program, contact Allie Lancaster at lancast@illinois.edu or call 815-772-4075.

LEE COUNTY EXTENSION BRIEFS Two to lead dog obedience lessons AMBOY – Pat Mandernach and Judy Lohse, 4-H superintendents and dog trainers, will instruct children in dog care and training classes at 1 p.m. April 11 at the Lee County Fairgrounds, 1196 Franklin Road, Classes will continue at 10 a.m. every Saturday through July 18 (no class July 4).

Participants will have the option to show at the June 6 Granny Rose Animal Shelter’s Dog Show in Dixon.

The classes are open to all youth 8-18 as of Sept. 1, 2014. The cost is $20 for

Crafts, such as this hula hoop rug, can be made at the Heritage Arts Make and Take Workshop from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 11 at the Lee County Council on Aging, 100 W. Second St. Participants can take two sessions in the morning and a session in the afternoon. Topics include making herbal vinegars, fairy gardens, homemade bath fizzes and sugar scrubs, pillowcases, trellis lace and T-shirt necklaces, button bouquets, tablet covers, hula hoop rugs, and an item using chicken scratch. The cost is $15. For more information or registration forms, call the University of Illinois Extension Carroll County office at 815-244-9444.

SHAMROCK DONATION

13 classes. Register online at edu/clw or call 815-8573525

open to youth 8 to 15.

Go to edu/clw or call 815857-3525 to register.

Butterflies topic of upcoming course

Quilting SPIN Club class to begin

DIXON – John Thompson, entomologist with the Lee County Extension office, will present “Butterflies and More,” a workshop on how to start a bug collection, how to preserve and mount the insects, and how to identify them.

The program will be from 1 to 3 p.m. April 25 at the Ruth Edwards Nature Center in Lowell Park, 2114 Lowell Park Road. The workshop is

DIXON – The Quilting SPIN Club, offered by the Lee County Extension and the Petunia City Quilters, will meet from 1 to 3 p.m. June 4 at the First Presbyterian Church, 110 E. Third St. Additional classes will be June 11, 18, and 26.

Classes are open to all youth 8-18 by Sept. 1, 2014. Class fee is $20.

Register online at educ/clw or call 815-857-3525.

spectus, 51 E. Fourth St., Room 101, Winona, MN 55987.

tives, but was selected to replace Sen. Gary Dahl in December, and never served in the House. She was re-elected in 2012 for a 4-year term. She currently serves as assistant minority leader.

Photo submitted

The Rock River Valley Shamrock Club donated 775 items and $560 to the Dixon Food Pantry. With the donations are (from left) Sarah Lenox, Phil Lahey, Delores Kness, Gloria Schneider, and Pat Gorman.

The items and money were donated at the club’s St. Patrick’s parade and party March 14.

IN BRIEF Draft available for public viewing The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has released a Prospectus and Invitation for Applications to Conduct Commercial Waterfowl Hunting Guide Services on the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge draft for public review and comment.

If approved, it will govern the commercial waterfowl hunt guiding program currently administered on the refuge.

It is available by request at the Refuge Visitor Center, 7071 Riverview Road, Thomson, IL 61285. Copies also are available at timothy_yager@fws.gov or by calling 507-452-4232.

A public meeting, with draft information and a question and answer session, will be from 6 to 8 p.m. April 14 at the visitors center.

Written comments will be accepted by the refuge until May 15, at U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, Attn: Waterfowl Guide Pro-

Senator to speak at committee event ROCK FALLS – State Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, will be the guest speaker at the Whiteside County Republican Central Committee annual Lincoln Day Dinner April 24 at the Days Inn Hotel, 2501 First Ave. Social hour, with music

by Ain’t Misbehavin’ will begin at 5:30 p.m., a dessert auction at 6:30, and dinner and program at 7. Other county, state, and federal officials also will speak.

Registration is due April 13. Tickets are $40 per person or $320 for eight as a table sponsor. Call Kurt Glazier at 815-4414737, Roxanne Glazier at 815-441-2368, Jerri Robinson at 815-5375395, or Kathie Donahue at 815-716-0810 to make reservations.

Rezin was elected Nov. 2, 2010, to District 75 of the House of Representa-

Amboy student shares message INDIANAPOLIS – Andrew Klien of Amboy was one of 36 FFA members who attended the 42nd National Ag Day March 18 in Washington, District of Columbia.

Organized by the Agricultural Council of America, activities marked a nationwide effort to tell the story of American agriculture.

Other participants were producers, agricultural associations, and corporations, and student and government organizations involved in agriculture.

Goals for the day included: understanding how food and fiber products are produced, appreciation of the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products and maintaining a strong economy; career opportunities in the industries

of agriculture, and food and fiber.

April 20. The cost is $20.

Rochelle hospice Woodland class set earns recognition in Mount Carroll ROCHELLE – Unity MOUNT CARROLL – A “The Forest Edge Workshop” will be at 9 a.m. April 25 at Naaman Diehl Auditorium, 811 S. Clay St. Information on the importance of the forest edge for forest health, what should be found in these areas, and management strategies to maintain a healthy forest edge will be presented.

The morning presentation will feature Jeff Harris, Illinois Department of Natural Resources forester; Dave Harrison, Soil and Water Conservation District resource conservationist; and Scott Schaeffer, woodland owner.

After a light lunch, the group will travel to Schaeffer’s property for a tour of various forest edge management and restoration projects. The program will end at about 3 p.m.

To register, go to edu/clw or call 815-244-9444 by

Hospice, 201 S. Seventh St. Suite 101, has become a national partner of We Honor Veterans, a campaign developed by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

As a We Honor Veterans Partner, the hospice has earned the highest recognition as a Level 4 service provider. In order to be recognized as a Level 4 service provider, the hospice implemented ongoing veteran-centered education for its staff and volunteers to help improve the care they provide to veterans.

The campaign provides tiered recognition to organizations that demonstrate a systematic commitment to improving care for Veterans. “Partners” can assess their ability to serve veterans

and, using resources provided as part of the campaign, integrate practices for providing end-of-life care to veterans.

‘Silver City’ part of upcoming meeting STERLING – Consuelo Castillo Kickbush will speak May 5 at the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce’s Hispanic Business Leaders Committee meeting at Centennial Auditorium at Sterling High School, 1608 Fourth Ave. The doors open at 6 p.m., with the presentation at 7.

Kickbush, who lived in Sterling in the ’50s, will speak on challenges of poverty, discrimination, and illiteracy.

Sterling, known as “Silver City” the boxcar settlement, was an early home for her parents.

Information and photos about Silver City will be on display. For more information, contact the chamber at knoble@saukvalleyarea reachamber.com or call 815-625-2400.

Community SV Weekend • C12

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Saturday, April 4, 2015

YMCA ROCK ’N’ STROLL

Photos by Philip Marruffo/pmarruffo@saukvalley.com

Raven Bauer draws “The Starry Night” on March 28 during the YMCA Rock ’N’ Stroll. The art-and-music fundraiser was held at Northland Mall to pay for students from Rock Falls Middle School and Woodlawn Arts Academy to travel to the Chicago Art Institute.

ABOVE: Kylon Gragert picks his guitar on stage at the event meant to fund the 21st Century Community Learning Center’s trip to the Art Institute.

FAR-LEFT: Kristin Smith does her best to get in the head of “Mona Lisa” during the fundraiser.

LEFT: Bronson Mintun belts out a song.

BOTTOM-FAR-LEFT: Mackenzie Davis sings a solo during the YMCA Rock ’N’ Stroll.

BOTTOM-LEFT: Belen Mendoza and Sam Sharp, both seventhgraders at Rock Falls Middle School, use the American Gothic painting as live art at the mall.

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CLASSIFIED SAUK VALLEY

Section D

Saturday, April 4, 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 Vanessa White, Director of Advocate Services (815) 288-1901 www.casalee carroll.com

ADOPTION NOTICES

128

♥♥ADOPTION:♥♥ A Loving, Financially Secure Family, Laughter, Travel, Beaches, Music, ♥Awaits 1st Baby♥ ♥Expenses Paid♥ 1-800-561-9323

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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 people securing 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.

FOR SALE

BY OWNER

209

STERLING Move-In Ready, 2 story Sterling Home, 3BR, 1½ BA, 1,300 sq. ft. garage, deck & lg. yard. All new roof, kitchen, baths, H/W floors, furnace Plus finished basement w/ family/ 4th BR & ½ BA. 1110 5th Ave. $114,900.

Call 815-626-9472 Open House Saturday 12-2

ROCK FALLS

you want to buy or sell! www. saukvalley. com

Rock Falls House for Sale East Coloma area.

Offers 3BR, open floor plan & full basement. FIX & SAVE. 08867618 $55,000 Call Brian Corwell at RE/MAX Sauk Valley, 815716-0772 or visit www.brian corwell.com

STERLING

ASHTON

Sterling Home for Sale See the difference 3BR, 2BA, 1800 sq. ft. Fenced yard.

Sharp Home, ready Today! N/E Sterling $105,000 #08864931 Call Brian Corwell at RE/MAX Sauk Valley 815-7160772 or visit www.brian corwell.com

★★ 1&2 BR., Ashton/ F.G. 815-7512712/562-5075.★

INVESTMENT PROPERTY

220

INVESTOR WANTED 3 Rentals/$178K Monthly Income $2,045 815-626-8790

MOBILE HOMES 230

MOBILE HOMES

230

Mobile Homes for Sale Dixon, Mt. Morris, Lyndon, Freeport, Davis Junction

DIXON WELCOME HOME TO

DIXON RIVER APARTMENTS 2 BR, 1 BA Starting at $530

INCLUDES: • Appliances •Large Closets • Carpet & Window Treatments * Garages Available * ** On Site Laundry Favilities **

815-284-6782

2BR, 1 ba., single story townhouse, attached garage, lawn/snow removal incl., desirable NW Dixon location, laundry, no pets/no smoking, $760/mo.

815-440-3932 Nice 2BR garage & fireplace, garbage & water inc. $575 + dep. 815-973-5886 XL Studio- $400 XL 1BR- $450 Free water, garbage & heat.

Pets welcome.

815-751-3295

HARMON Need Help With Financing? 2 BR 1 BA apt. for

We May Be Able To Help

rent: 952 Harmon Rd. Harmon, IL. $475/mo. Country setting. Walk-in closets. Car port parking available.

815-562-7368

Hauck Homes 815-284-2000

MILLEDGEVILLE

Advertise your mobile homes for sale here!!

1BR, w/ applcs. $400/mo. svla.org.

815-718-5488

DIXON

ROCHELLE

3BR 2 full baths, refrig., stove, dishwasher, w/d, new furnace & a/c this yr., deck & handicapped ramp, storage shed, $24,000 815-973-5601

APARTMENTSFURNISHED 305 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

ROCHELLE- Now taking applications for the waiting list for 1 & 2 bedroom apartment.

For persons 62 years of age or older disabled regardless of age. Rent includes all appliances and laundry on-site also includes a chair lift for persons with difficulty in climbing stairs.

Call today at 877-815-5557.

This institution is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. Equal Housing Opportunity.

ROCK FALLS 1 BR $375 Hampton Apts.

815-625-7043

ROCK FALLS NEW TODAY 2BR, $500mo., Edon Apts.

815-441-3999

STERLING

RIVER RIDGE APARTMENTS

2 Bedroom Great Location Garages Available

$

495

PER MONTH

1st Month’s Rent

FREE *with 1 year lease

3 Months

FREE

Garage Rental*

*Only Valid while garages last. New applicants only.

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ALDI in Sterling

1-815-414-2288

NORTHLAND PARK APARTMENTS Studio, 1 & 2 Bedroom Washer & Dryer Units Fitness Center Balconies / Patios Open House Daily Garages Available Pet Friendly

1st Month FREE! Call Me 2-Rent 815)632-7368 (Located Behind Northland Mall)

Sterling Rentals Newer 2 Bedroom $599.00 & Up 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 1 BR Apts. No pets. No Exceptions! Call 815716-0367.

1BR stove, refrig, No Pets. $385 + dep. 815-631-6678 1BR stove, refrig., gas, heat, water, & garbage furnished, no pets, no parties, need references, $450/mo. + dep.

815-631-0896.

COMMERCIAL RENTAL

STERLING ★★1BR, W/D in unit, D/W. Woodlawn Rd. $500/mo.

815-535-7077.★★ Ground Level 2BR 2BA, applcs incl, attch. garage, lawn care inc., $650/mo. + dep. 1501 Heritage Ln. Call Jim Prescott 815-6257778 or 815-4992996 Newly remodeled studio apts.

Utilities included.

Starting at $450.

815-441-5106 Sinnissippi Townhomes First Mo. Free!

Spacious 2 BR. 2 story townhomes.

Central air, good location. Laundry hookup. (815)6261130.

HOMES FOR RENT

310

FOR RENT HOUSES & APTS. svla.org

CHADWICK 3BR home, new siding, windows & roof.

No pets.

815$550/mo.

499-1793

MILLEDGEVILLE 4BR, new flooring.

Refs. required. No pets.

Appliances included. $550/mo.

815-499-1793.

ROCK FALLS 1BR home, newly remodeled, stove & refrig, $450/mo. no garage. Call 815499-7060.

2BR, 708 W. 2nd St., 1 car garage.

W&D hookups, no pets.815-625-1900

311

Secured 3 acre w/ high bays and office, 3818 River Rd., Sterling.

815-626-8790

MOBILE HOMES FOR RENT

315

ASHTON 2BR, clean, no $395/mo. pets.

847-809-6828.

LOANS

402

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

2BR, fenced yard, garage, newly remodeled. Dep. & refs. req. $600/mo.

815-632-7111.

505 W. 5th St. 1BR 1BA. Spacious loft. $450/mo. + utilities 815-440-0007

ROCK FALLS GARAGE SALES 624

STERLING

The best way to start your day.

2BR 1BA 1 car garage, lg. fenced yard.

No Pets. $550/mo. + dep.

815-622-6991 RTO 2BR $49,900 $5,000 down.4413515.Agent owned.

COMMERCIAL RENTAL

Fri. & Sat. 8-?

1600 Riverdale Rd., Lot #11 Tools, dollies, screws and nails for sale.

ROCK FALLS GARAGE SALES 624

FURNITURE

Sat. only 8-12 618 4th Ave. Golf clubs, misc. sporting equip., exercise Gazelle, clothing & shoes, TV's, bar stools, bookshelf, computer desk, coffee table, sound system, speakers, Longaberger baskets, luggage, glassware and housewares, comforters and blankets.

STERLING GARAGE SALES 624 Fri. 1-6pm & Sat. 8-Noon 1903 37th Ave. Going out of the baby business!

Car seats, baby swing, bassinet, boys clothes 0-7, girls 0-8, Little Tikes Thomas bed, Little Princess bed, lots of toys, housewares, adult clothing L-XL & misc.

ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES 705 I Buy: Antiques, collectibles, toys, post cards, etc.

815-445-6151.

APPLIANCES

710

CLOVER HILLS LEASE TO OWN APPLIANCES TV’S MATTRESSES

815.625.8529

All Mattress Sets New in plastic.

Twin $99, Full $129, qu. $159, King $259. W/ Warr. Can deliver.

815-703-3688 Mattress sets: Twin $99, Full $129, Queen $159, King $199. Will deliver! Kern Mattress Outlet, call 309452-7477.

PETS & PET SUPPLIES 775 4 - 6 wk. old Kittens to give away to a good home.

Call 815-590-7686 Male Cat, neutered, sweet, needs loving indoor home only.

Owner passed away. Call 815-535-7061 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!

Maytag 7 cycle elec. dryer & Kenmore HE washer $400 lv. message 815-973-5077

Young Cat - 9 mo.

F, spayed, shy, needs home w/ retiree or person w/ a lot of time. 815535-7061

Maytag Electric Dryer $50 815288-3754

Young white rabbits, friendly, great gifts! 815-973-3074

Classifieds Work!

Terry of Rock Falls sold his 2002 Pontiac Grand Am for $4200 using

dailyGAZETTE

C CLASSIFIEDS LASSIFIEDS

To subscribe call

815-284-2224 815-625-3600

SAUK VALLEY

LASSIFIEDS dailyGAZETTE

dailyGAZETTE

4%,%'2!0( 815-284-2222

Prime Location Office 815-499-7448

TELEGRAPH

TELEGRAPH

We Buy Cars To!

311

600 sq. feet Office N. Galena Ave., Dixon Available Now. 815-652-7470

755

2

LOCATIONS! DEALER FINANCING AVAILABLE

1397 N. Galena Ave., Dixon 815-288-5626 708 First Avenue, Rock Falls 815-622-6655

YOUR 1ST AND 2ND CHANCE DEALER!

Hours Mon - Fri 10-6 • Sat 9-3

TR IV I A AN SW ER 1) The word “robot” was first used by Czech writer Karel Capek for his 1920 play, R.U.R. (Rossum’s Universal Robots), in which artificial workers eventually overthrow their creators.

2) The first robot to appear in a film was called Maria in the 1926 silent movie, Metropolis. It’s about a mechanised society in which an evil inventor creates a robot from a human woman.

Before you make a move call…

SHIPPERTS

The best way to The best way to start your day. start your day.

Moving & Storage

404 N. Lincoln Ave., Dixon, IL 288-3133 www.alliedvan.com

ILL CC 10540

US DOT 76235

To Subscribe Call

dailyGAZETTE 815-625-3600

4%,%'2!0( 815-284-2222

SERVICE DIRECTORY Genl. Contracting

Lawn Care

FARLEY'S APPLIANCE Heating & Cooling Sale & Service Free Estimates New & Replacement Units We service all brands!

Call Today (815)284-2052

Advanced Cleaners

BRADY CONSTRUCTION (815) 499-1871 Additions, Garages Remodeling, Kitchens, Baths, Siding, Handicap Ramps.

WE DO IT ALL! 35 year experience FREE Estimates :And We Will Call You Back:

Robert & Sons Lawn Care Specializing in: •lawn care •landscaping •HANDYMAN •odd jobs Leroy Petersen 815-622-8565 free estimates! find us on facebook robertandsons lawncare

RON WIGHT HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING •Residential Specialists •30 Years Experience •FREE estimates •Special $45 Check-Up on Furnace or A/C •No Diagnostic fee Call Today!

815-734-6282 815-440-9585

Maid/Janitorial Carpet/Upholstery We Specialize in Residential Maid Service as well as Commercial

Janitorial Service Call and pre-schedule your springtime carpet cleaning before April and receive 10 % off

Asphalt Has the salt and ice-melt destroyed your asphalt driveway, road or parking lot?

In operation for almost 50 years, Porter Brothers has developed a step-by-step process that ensures our sealcoating and asphalt application is done right the first time, and meets the standards and expections of our customers.

• Driveways • Parking Lots • Roadways • Over Lays • Sidewalks and Bike Paths • Railroad Crossings and Related Rail Work Sites

Call Today for a FREE Estimate

(800) 205PAVING PorterBrothers.net **FRANKLIN** MAINTENANCE Pothole Repair Hot Pour Crack Filling Seal Coating Line Striping Bonded-Insured 815-284-6806

815-632-3822 www.advanced cleaners.biz

Concrete Contractors

CONCRETE • Driveways • Sidewalks • Patios CONSTRUCTION •Garages •Additions •Remodeling •Decks • Homes

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

Brick & Masonry LAUTS MASONRY & GENERAL CONTRACTING •Brick Block Stone & Cultured Stone Work •Tuck Pointing Chimney Repair & Removal Over 35 Years Experience Quality work for a reasonable price.

Bonded & Insured 815-718-4885 MASONRY PROS •Brick-Block-Stone •Chimneys repaired or rebuilt •New Masonry or restoration & tuck-pointing Get masonry repairs done from winter damage.

Free Estimates 25 yrs. experience Insured & Bonded.

815-564-8754

A Family's Handyman ★Roofing ★Siding ★ Decks ★Great Rates ★Fast Service Interior Discounts CC#'s Accepted 815-994-0075 HANDYMAN/ GENERAL Contracting, siding, drywall, concrete work, decks, flooring (tile, linoleum, carpet, wood), bathroom and kitchen, complete remodels, additions all types of home repairs. Free Estimates and Insured-Bonded 815-564-7428 LawnCare Service •Pot Holes •Leaf clean up & removal •House cleanup •Small hauling •Gutters •Pressure washing •Mulch •Storm Clean-up •Free Estimates• 815-590-6336

Painting BALAYTI PAINTING

Interior & Exterior Light Carpentry Pressure Washing 35 Years Experience Insured - References Cell #815-440-2202

Plumbing

Lewis Plumbing 815-288-0028 Serving All of the Sauk Valley Area Lic.#058-173956

Remodeling

Concrete Construction by Hawley's Services Driveways, Patios Sidewalks & Stoops/Steps New Construction or Restoration/ Repair.

No job too small!

Fully Insured 815-876-0871 THINK SPRING!!

Concrete Workz Construction • Sidewalks • Driveways • Patios • Floors • Steps • Stoops • Garage Walls/ Additions/ • Retaining Walls • Block • Brick • Stonework All types of concrete work!

Free Estimates Insured 815-441-6126

Construction

Deck Builders

We specialize in exterior decks & privacy fences “You’ll always be a winner if we cut the deck” 815-288-4089 www.cosscustom woodworking.com

Dog Grooming Now Open

Dianna's Doggie Depot 527 Depot Ave. Dixon IL.

High-Security Storage Solutions and Much More!

•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

Stump Removal CLARK'S

• Stump Grinding • Small Trees • Clean Up • Bush Removal 815-718-2663 or 815-590-0423

A&M TREE SERVICE BEAT MOST BIDS!

Free Estimates 25 yrs. Experience Fully Licensed/ Insured.

Whiteside Area 815-590-1677

PAUL’S HANDYMAN SERVICE “Anything Your Husband Won’t Do!” •Experience On All Manner of Home Repairs & Maintenance since 1986 (815)625-2607 (815)631-4122

✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤

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

www.mullerslane farm. com

Haul/Clean Service A-1 HAULING Small or Large Truck Rentals Estate Clean-ups Garage & Building Demolition Roofing Construction Seamless Gutters Skid Loader & Back Hoe Work Materials Hauled 815-626-1956 Attn: Landlords & Home Owners •General Clean up/ •Maintenance •Skid Loader/ •Dump Trailer work Will haul anything!

Free Estimates 815-440-5452 JC SERVICES 815-631-1957 Spring Clean-Up Hauling, Mowing, & MUCH MORE! No Job Too Big or Too Small!

JOHN'S CLEANUP & REMOVAL Anything goes!!

Estate Cleanups PHONE 815-622-0240

Home Improvement

Roofing Guaranteed Best Buy!

Cole's Complete Tree Service Tree Trimming Stump Removal Licensed and Insured *Free Estimates* 25HR Emergency Service Call 815-718-2997 Donnie Cole colestree service@outlook.com

Superior Exteriors •Roofing •Siding •Windows and •Gutters 815-631-2033 Free Estimates

Illinois License #104.016127 Bonded/Insured •Roofing •Siding • Windows •Doors •Additions• Garages •Drywall• Decks and more Free Estimates 815-213-0556

MEISTER TREE CARE Specializing in all of your tree care needs.

Certified pesticide & herbicide applicator & line clearance tree trimming .

Storm clean up & specialty work.

Free Estimates No job too big or too small!

Licensed, Bonded Insured Safety and your satisfaction is my #1 goal!

815-994-1750

Roofing/Siding ✶Since 1981✶ ◆Home Improvement ◆New Construction

SPRING is the perfect time to build your garage, addition or remodel Re-roof / Reside your home!

“Grooming Service for Small to Medium Dogs” New customers welcome at affordable prices.

For an Appointment call 815-716-3621

IL State Roofing Licensed 104-002247(1986) Bonded-Insured

Dumpster Rental

Lawn Care

Dumpster Rental for Clean-ups & Construction Small & Large containers avail.

Tidy Bug Inc. Dixon, IL tidybuginc.com 815-456-3001

Coy's Lawn Care Complete Property Maintenance Spring Clean-Up's Mowing, Planting and more!

Fully Insured!!

Free Estimates 815-213-0902 LAWN CARE Residential & Commercial Mowing-Trimming Clean up, General Maintenance 20 Yrs. Experience Sterling/RF Areas Call for Estimate ★815-631-3418★

Randy L. Moore

815-626-1333

“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

Storage

✰CORNER✰ STORAGE

Dixon near Walmart Sterling near Menards Various Sizes

GREAT RATES 815-973-3613

TV Repair

TELEVISION IN HOME REPAIR 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE! Work on all Brands & Models Old or New SERVING THE SAUK VALLEY Call Ron for a free quote at 815-561-0011 Dixon, IL

Water Softeners The Softener Man Repair on all makes & models Service Call Special $19.95 Over 30 years experience 815-323-1622

Find your dream home!

Need to place an ad?

Read Sauk Valley Classifieds real estate section

Call us today!

and Real Estate Weekly on Thursdays.

Windows

www.allsafe center.com

Tree Service

37 yrs. Experience 815-626-9026

T & M PAVING

*Asphalt paving & Patch work * Seal Coating *Skid loader/ Dump Truck Work (Concrete Removal, Dirt and Gravel Hauling) Call for free, no obligation estimates 815-499-7195.

Locally owned And Operated.

Over 25 Years Asphalt Exp. Fully Insured

Handyman

Storage

815-625-3600 815-284-2222

“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

SAUKVALLEY.COM

Cleaning Service

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All with Factory Warranty & Low Miles

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219/MO.**

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• 06 CHRYSLER PACIFICA

$8,999*

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$6,999*

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$6,999*

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$9,999*

WWW.MAJESKIMOTORSINC.COM

815-625-9600

Mon.-Thur.

Mon -Thur 9-7 • Fri Fri. 9-6 • Sat Sat. 8:30am-4pm *Plus tax, title, license & doc fee.

Photos for illustration only.

CARS815.com

SAUK VALLEY

SEARCH FOR LOCAL CARS

SAUK VALLEY MEDIA • Saturday, April 4, 2015 • PAGE D2

A1

SAUK VALLEY MEDIA • Saturday, April 4, 2015 • PAGE D3

saukvalley.com

EMPLOYMENT

Contact us to place an ad call 815-626-7653 815-284-7653

Search for local job listings at saukvalley.com/jobs/ BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES 501 NOTICEPURto the SUANT Business Opportunity Sales Law of 1995, every business opportunity must be registered with the Illinois Securities Department. Protect yourself and get the facts before you hand over your 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.

HEALTH / MEDICAL

504

Gaffey Health Service Inc. is hiring CNA's for the Dixon area M-F day shift, starting now through May. Please call 815-625-5575 to inquire or fill out an application at 3408 East 23rd Street in Sterling.

Wanted F.T. & P.T. C.N.A.'s For 2nd & 3rd Shift Please Apply at: Heritage Square 620 N. Ottawa Ave. Dixon, EOE No Phone Calls Please.

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

505

Drivers Exp. CDL Drivers.

Immediate full time position. Local hauling with some Saturdays.

Competitive wage. EOE. Call 815-772-2514 and leave information.

Perfect for retired drivers!

Drivers Local Trucking company looking for Truck Driver for a flatbed with Class A CDL, 23yrs or older with 1yr. min. exp. and good driving record. Call 815-218-6705.

Experienced Custom Applicators Full Time positions available. Paid Benefits. Apply: Crop Production Services 1793 Steward Rd. Steward, IL 60553 815-396-2248

NEW TODAY FT Delivery/ Warehouse Must have valid driver's license.

Involves delivery and installation of appliances.

Apply in person with resume to: Farley's Appliance 1245 N. Galena Ave., Dixon

505

Amboy C.U.S.D. #272 is seeking applicants for the following position: ASSISTANT TO THE DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY. To apply go to www.leeogle.org.

Job Postings, and complete application.

Please apply by May 22, 2015 Automotive Openings New and Used auto dealer taking applications for all positions in the dealership. Come grow with us.

New facility and over 60 years in business.

Fax resume to 815-562-3816 Camp Reynoldswood (Dixon) is expanding its ministry, and has seasonal positions in housekeeping, maintenance, kitchen and programming.

Visit www.reynolds wood.org or email director@reynolds wood.org EOEAA

Carroll County CASA has an immediate opening for an Advocate Supervisor. Candidates must be detail oriented, organized and able to manage multiple projects at a time.

A professional demeanor and confidentiality, coupled with strong verbal and interpersonal skills are necessary. Computer skills with Word and Excel are required. 20 hours week. Cover letter and resume to: casadirector@CASA15. comcastbiz.net

Deadline April 10

Customer Service Reps- 3rd Shift Join the team at your neighborhood store.

1000 E. River Rd., Dixon, IL Apply online at

www.stop-n-go.com

or at the store.

Competitive startpay; shift ing bonus; extensive package; benefit Vacation; 401k and more!

Equal opportunity employer

Illinois Bank & Trust Personal Banker Part Time Position Process customer transactions, offer financial products/ services, provide extraordinary level of customer service.

Provide backup for all Personal Banking positions. Learn more about the banking industry, grow your career!

Requirements: HS Diploma/GED, customer service experience.

EOE/AA Employer M/F/Disabled/Vet www.illinois bank.com/careers

Local chemical and fertilizer company has openings for seasonal truck drivers.

Applicants must have a current medical card and a minimum of Class B CDL. Interested candidates can call 815-537-2630 or inquire at: 5502 Lyndon Road, Prophetstown, IL 61277.

Local Grain and Livestock farm has Production Assistant position open.

Send resume to: Box #:1273, c/o Sauk Valley Classifieds, P.O. Box 498, Sterling, IL 61081 Morrison High School CUSD #6 is accepting applications for a High School Office Manager.

Please apply online at www. applitrack.com/ whitesideroe/ onlineapp Motorcycle/ATV Mechanic wanted Full or part time.

Apply in person at Douglas & Frye Motorsports, Sterling Need Someone to rake my yard & pick up sticks.

Morrison Location Call Gene at 815-772-8211 Part-Time Secretarial Position Local church seeking part-time secretary.

Applicant should possess strong computer skills in Word and Excel and accounting knowledge.

Applicants should be organized, dependable, detail oriented.

Please send replies to Box #1274, c/o Sauk Valley Classifieds, P.O. Box 498, Sterling, IL 61081

EMPLOYMENT

505

EMPLOYMENT

TOOL MAKER

505

TO OUR

TRAMEC HILL FASTENER, Rock Falls, IL Tool Maker needed at our TRAMEC Hill Fastener cold heading division of TRAMEC LLC (www.tramec.com). Must have experience with cold heading tooling including assembly, modifications, fabrication and fitting to high speed steel and carbide dies used in the fastener industry. Must be competently experienced with operation of Hydraulic press, die assembly, lathe, grinding and deckle tool room equipment. Great salary, matching 401K, major medical insurance,. Great team in place, with excellent growth potential.

READERS:

Professional Administrative Industrial DIXON/STERLING 815-835-3000 To apply or review our current openings, please visit our website at hughes resources.com Rail car repair shop laborers wanted.

Mechanical aptitude required - no experience necessary.

Health benefits, 401k, attendance incentives.

Economy Systems, 320 21st Street, Camanche, IA 52730. 563-2598309 S & S Cartage located in Loves Park, IL, serving the industry since 1961, is recruiting new owner/operators with semi dumps to cover the truck shortage in the local construction industry. The 5 year market outlook is strong. If you already have a tractor or have $20K to invest in a truck tractor with or without a dump trailer, and don't know where to get started; Contact Gary at 815-2989411 for more information.

Seasonal Part Time Summer Hires: The City of Sterling is looking for students currently enrolled, or planning to be enrolled, in college or graduate studies for Seasonal Part Time Summer help to conduct maintenance of municipal buildings and grounds, including road maintenance. Use of lawn care equipment and small Valid machinery.

Illinois Driver's License and proof of enrollment required.

Apply to City Manager's Office, 212 Third Avenue, Sterling OR www.ci.sterling.il.us

for application and email to: ksmith@sterling-il.gov

EEO Employer.

Apply before May 1, 2015.

ServiceMaster has openimmediate ings in Dixon, Sterling & Amboy area.

Multiple day and night part time positions. 15-20/hrs. per week. Apply in person at 205 6th Ave., Sterling.

Store Manager Join the team at your neighborhood store.

1000 S. Seventh St., Rochelle, IL Previous convenience store manexperiagement ence required.

Competitive starting pay; bonus program; extensive package; benefit Vacation; 401k and more!

Please send a resume and cover letter to sfelson@ stop-n-go.com Equal opportunity employer

Need to place an ad?

Call us 625-3600 284-2222

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 malicious intent.

While we attempt to screen advertising with potential fraud, it is impossible to screen all potential problems.

We strongly encourage our readers to exercise caution and common sense, particularly when dealing with companies with which you are not familiar.

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 specifically licensed 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))

Please send resume’ to rhardman@hillfastener.com or fax to 815-625-2406

Coilcraft, Inc., founded in 1945, is an established worldwide organization specializing in the manufacturing of magnetic components with headquarters located in Cary, Illinois. We currently have positions listed below at our Oregon, IL plant:

Machinist Shipping/ Receiving Scheduling Associate Please go to our webside, www.coilcraft.com and click on the jobs link to learn more and apply.

Inquiries may be directed to Patricia Seloover - HR, at 815-732-6834 EOE/ Minorities/ Females/ Veterans/ Disabled

TECHNICIAN OPPORTUNITIES AT BORGWARNER!!!!

Supply Chain Manager

Sensient Flavors, a leading manufacturer of dairy ingredient products, is seeking a Supply Chain Manager. This position will lead the local purchasing and scheduling functions. This includes developing/ preparing production plans and forecasts. A BS/BA degree required; a minimum of 5 years experience with ERP systems; prior experience in the food industry a plus; 3-5 years prior supervisor experience; strong computer, analytical,and communication skills; Competitive compensation, excellent benefits, 401K, and ESOP Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply online at http://sensient.com/careers/jobs

Join the Helpful Team!

Ace Hardware is accepting applications for Material Handlers Material Handlers: First, Second and Third Shifts Full time starting at $12.60 per hour plus .55 or .60 shift premium Plus Incentive pay for your hard work Must be able to lift between 50-70 lbs.

Most schedules Sunday thru Thursday.

Benefits: • Full benefits package including Medical, Dental, Prescription Drug, Vision, Disability pay, Life Insurance, and Paid Time Off after 90 days • 401k with generous company contributions • Flexible spending accounts • Merchandise discounts Applications may be obtained 24 hours a day at the Princeton Ace Retail Support Center or you may apply on line at www.acehardware.com/careers

Got Work?

Manpower Can Help!

Let us find the right position for you!

Apply online. Visit:

manpowerjobs.com

Sterling Office 815.622.2814 Dixon Office 815.288.7800

Birkey’s Farm Store, Polo, IL We are currently accepting resumes for an experienced Ag Equipment Service Technician to accurately and efficiently diagnose, repair and service equipment.

Also needed is a Parts Counter Sales Person.

These positions offer a very competitive wage and complete benefit package including uniforms, 401(k) , health care, pd. vacations and more. If you are interested in joining a well established organization please send resume to: Birkey’s Farm Store c/o Denny Merdian P.O. Box 128 Polo, IL 61064

Attention Assemblers New Positions Available!!

• Full-Time • Full Benefits • All Shifts

Princeton Retail Support Center 2123 N. Euclid Princeton, IL 61356

EOE

Work for a Growing World-Class automotive supplier!

BorgWarner is currently accepting resumes for the following Hourly positions. If you are self-motivated and are committed to continuous learning, professional growth and success, please read on…

Facilities Maintenance Technician: 2nd Shift (3 pm-11:15 pm) Our Facilities Maintenance Technicians install, maintain and repair electrical, plumbing, HVAC systems and are involved in building maintenance and repair. Successful candidates will possess strong knowledge and abilities in the following: installation and troubleshooting of electrical systems and control circuits, operation and maintenance of compressors, vacuum pumps, chillers, fluid coolers, HVAC and pneumatic systems.

Have experience and through understanding of electrical, plumbing, and building codes. A related Associate’s Degree or equivalency along with communication, problem-solving, organizational and team-work abilities are also required.

Warranty and Product Analysis Technician: 1st shift (7am to 3:15 pm) Our Warranty and Product Analysis Technicians plan, conduct and assess activities associated with customer warranty return receipt, analysis and disposition. They provide technical and hands-on support to manufacturing operations to help resolve product quality and manufacturability issues. They create and present internal and customer reports. Successful candidates will possess strong knowledge and experience in the following: blueprint and schematics, measuring equipment and instrumentation, mechanical skills and Microsoft Office. An Associate’s in Automotive, Electronics, Multi-craft or Engineering Technology or equivalent from a two year college or technical school, ASE Certification preferred. Strong communication, problem-solving, organizational and team-work abilities are also required. Our work environment values learning, team work, innovation and continuous improvement. Professional development is supported through a generous educational assistance policy. We offer a very competitive compensation and benefits package, including a savings and investment plan with company match. BorgWarner is an Equal Opportunity employer. For immediate consideration please submit your resume: BorgWarner Emissions Systems Attention: Human Resources 1350 Franklin Grove Road Dixon, IL 61021 awolcott@borgwarner.com Fax: (815) 288-7613 EEOC

DO YOU QUALIFY FOR A CAREER AS A ROCK FALLS POLICE OFFICER? The Rock Falls Board of Fire and Police Commissioners are seeking candidates for the posiition off Pollice Offificer and d wiill cond ductt enttrance examiinattions att the Rockk Fallls Middle School on Saturday, April 18th 2015. Physical Ability examination will be administered at 9:00 a.m. and the written exam will follow.

Requirements: 1. Resident of the State of Illinois.

2. Valid driver’s license 3. Valid Firearms Owner Identification Card 4. Must be 21 years of age and not reached your 35th birthday 5. Have a high school diploma or equivalent 6. Must pass physical exam, skills evaluation, and written examination 7. Be of good moral character and pass an in-depth background check.

Fringe benefits include: Good pension plan, medical insurance, paid vacation, overtime pay and uniform allowance.

Application forms may be obtained at the Rock Falls Police Department located at 1013 7th Avenue, Rock Falls IL and must be completed no later than Friday, April 17th 2015 on or before 5:00 p.m. All applications submitted must include a copy of your driver’s license, High School Diploma or G.E.D. and your DD-214 (if applicable).

THE CITY OF ROCK FALLS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER The Rock Falls Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

GRAPHIC DESIGNER SaukValley Media has a full-time opening for a Graphic Designer in our advertising department. Our Graphic Designers work in specialized teams withAccount Executives and Customer Service Representatives to create effective ad campaigns for area businesses.

The ideal candidate should have experience with Macintosh computers, InDesign, and Photoshop, with creative design, layout ability and accurate typing skills.

Welder, Machine Operator, Material Handler positions also available.

Must demonstrate initiative, independent decision making ability, be self directed, organized and skilled in multitasking and time management.

Seeking motivated, dependable individuals. Training will be provided for all skill levels.

If you are interested in joining our team, send resume to:

E. D. ETNYRE & CO. Providing career oportunities since 1898

1333 S. Daysville Road Oregon, IL 61061

Check us out on Facebook and www.etnyre.com M/F Disabled and Vet EEO/AA Employer

Donna McDonald Advertising Operations Manager Sauk Valley Media P.O. Box 498, Sterling, IL 61081 dmcdonald@saukvalley.com Pre-Employment Drug Screen and Background Check Required Sauk Valley Media is an Equal Opportunity Employer

A2 Contact us to place an ad call 815-626-7653 815-284-7653

SAUK VALLEY MEDIA • Saturday, April 4, 2015 • PAGE D4

saukvalley.com

EMPLOYMENT Search for local job listings at saukvalley.com/jobs/

APPLY ONLINE AT

CGH Medical Center 100 E. LeFevre Road - Sterling, IL 61081 815.625.0400

Current Positions www.cghmc.com System Administrator- IT 40 hrs/wk Days; Bachelors in Computer Science or Associates in Computer Science with 5 yrs experience; 3-5 years experience in Systems Applications and Analysis required; experience in Windows System Administration and Windows Server; knowledge of Citrix, VMware, SharePoint, report writing and PowerShell preferred RN – Clinic Surgery 40 hrs/wk Days; Office appointments along with oncall for surgery, scrubbing in with physician RN – CCU 24 hrs/wk Days; 7am-7:30pm; w/every 3rd wkend 24 hrs/wk Nights; 7pm-7:30am; w/every 3rd wkend Previous CCU or ED experience preferred RN – Emergency Dept 20 hrs/wk Days; 8am – 4:30pm; 5 days/pay period PRN 3pm-3:30am (1 Day/wk) & every 3rd weekend PRN weekends; varying hours RN – Medical Floor 36 hrs/wk Nights; 7pm – 7:30am w/every 3rd weekend RN – Internal Medicine/Infectious Disease 36 hrs/wk Days; working in both depts.

Disease Management Specialist 40 hrs/wk Days; Registered Dietician w/Bachelors degree at minimum; Diabetes Educator certification preferred Medical Technologist 36 hrs/wk Days; (9 – 8 hr shifts per pay period) Must be Certified Medical Technologist or Technician Cardiac Monitor Tech 36 hrs/ wk Days; 6:30am-7pm w/ every 3rd wkend; Can with one yr work experience required; willingness to complete EKG class w/ in 6 months of hire and cross- train for both EKG/ CMT EKG Tech PRN evenings; 4:30pm-1am w/ every 3rd wkend; Can required; willingness to complete Cardiac Monitor course (CMT) and cross- train for both EKG/ CMT Teacher – Helping Hands Day Care PRN (fill in as needed); minimum of AAS in Early Childhood Education; minimum of 1 year direct experience working with children under 6 years of age required

RN – Satellite Clinic 40 hrs/wk Days; office nurse experience preferred

EKG/ Cardiac Monitor Tech PRN rotating shifts and hours: CNA required: willingness to complete Cardiac Monitor course (CMT) and cross- train for both EKG/ CMT

Quality Assurance Specialist 40 hrs/wk Days; LPN with minimum of 3 yrs acute clinical care experience; proficiency with computer software in word processing, database management, spreadsheets and graphing

Optometry Tech- Morrison 36 hrs/ wk Days; HS diploma or equivalent; prior experience in optometry/ ophthalmology preferred

Decision Support Analyst 40 hrs/wk Days; Bachelors in Accounting or Finance LPN required; 5 years healthcare finance experience Neurology -40 hrs/wk Days preferred Clinic Pediatrics - 36 hrs/wk Days Medical Assistant Clinic Float 36 hrs/wk Days; with some weekends; travel to satellite clinics required Polo Clinic- 24 hrs/wk Days must have national MA certification

FIND YOUR DREAM HOME!

Read Sauk Valley Classifieds real estate section and Real Estate Weekly on Thursdays.

e r e H

. y a Tod

$$EARN CASH$$ Towns

Streets

Route

Customers

STERLING

12thAve, 14thAve, 15thAve, 16thAve, E 20th

50

70

STERLING

19th Ave, 20th Ave, 21st Ave, 22 Ave, E 23rd St

58

91

STERLING

15th Ave, 16th Ave, 17th Ave, 18th Ave, 19th Ave, E 5t, E 6th

63

111

STERLING

GreenRideDr,E19th,6thAve

75

71

STERLING

W 5th, W 6th, W 7th, W 8th, W 9th, Ave J, Ave I

25

71

AMBOY

Clark, Main, Bluff, Stroble, Jossah

3206

68

AMBOY

Jones, Joe, Wasson, Bacon

3218

92

WALNUT

In Town

343

50

ROCKFALLS

12th- 15th Ave, W 2nd St

W245

ROCKFALLS

Regan Rd Trailer Park

243

21

ROCKFALLS

Dixon Ave 5th- 9th St, Ave A-Ave D

201

71

39

C Print All E Your L Special Events E Here!

B R A T I CALL O N TODAY S • Births

Call about open routes in Milledgeville and Morrison area Sauk Valley Media Telegraph 3200 E. Lincolnway 113 S. Peoria Sterling, IL 61081 Dixon, IL 61021 815-625-3600 ext. 5301

2nd & 3rd Shift CNA or DSP (Full or Part Time) Exceptional Care & Training Center is an 84 bed skilled/ DD facility with a positive living and work environment; experienced, reliable staff; and an outstanding survey history. Compensation includes competitive rate of pay, commensurate with experience; shift differential; paid time off. Other job opportunities include: • Dietary • Direct Support Person Training Program 2601 Woodlawn Road Sterling, 61081 exceptional-care.org info@ectcl.com

ROUTE DELIVERY DRIVER – ClassAor Class B CDL license required. Paid holidays and uniforms. Long-term employment, full-time. Overtime opportunities during peak season. Four day work week during off season, if desired. Health insurance, profit sharing, and variable year-eend bonuses. Delivery area 80 miles from Ohio, IL. Home daily. Requires good work ethic and clean driving record. Bring current copy of MVR.

Apply in person Mon-Fri 8am-4pm at: SISLER’S ICE & ICE CRE REAM 102 South Grove Street, Ohio, IL 61349 Applications are available.

• Graduates • Reunions

• And More

625-3600 or

284-2222

When you let Sauk Valley Classifieds do the work, you won’t get the run around.

It’s easy, effective and will get you results.

Here Today.

Call 815-625-3600 or 815-284-2222 Gone to get started!

When you let Sauk Valley Classifieds

do the work, you won’t get the run around.

It’s easy, effective and will get you results.

Tomorrow.

Call 815-625-3600 or 815-284-2222 and get started!

Gone Tomorrow. CLASSIFIEDS SAUK VALLEY dailyGAZETTE

TELEGRAPH

815-625-3600

815-284-2222

SAUK VALLEY MEDIA • Saturday, April 4, 2015 • PAGE D5

BREAKING NEWS ANYWHERE YOU GO

txtALERTS SIGN UP FOR FREE ON WWW.SAUKVALLEY.COM

SAUK VALLEY MEDIA • Saturday, April 4, 2015 • PAGE D6

LAWN MOWERS

Go BOLD

Grasshopper 124, 48” cut, 138hrs.

2yrs old.

A-1 shape! $3,000.

815-440-1414.

LAWN & GARDEN

SOLD Bold type

draws readers to your ad.

781

WILL DO ROTO-TILLING Min. $30. Call 815-499-7060.

EXERCISE EQUIPMENT

Get

779

785

Sunny Exercise Bike, sits low, w/ monitor, like new $100 815-4382122

TICKETS / TRAVEL 787 & EVENTS Chicago Cubs Tickets. All games reasonably priced.

815-978-2589 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.

WANT TO BUY 795 I Pay Cash 4 Gold, Silver, Coins & Antiques 24/7 815-564-9061

MISCELLANEOUS 796 FOR SALE 18K/ Sterling Heart and cross, still in boxes $15 815440-3785

MISCELLANEOUS 796 FOR SALE

MISCELLANEOUS 796 FOR SALE

1:24 scale, Nascar Diecast: Action, Team Caliber, Motorsports Authentics, Lionel,RCCA Elite, Numerous Drivers. Info: 815994-2101

HP TonerQ5942A for HP 4240- HP 4250HP4350 printers.

HP maint. Kits for HP4200 and HP 4250 printers. $50/ ea. obo. 815-6314539.

2 sets of 2 lockers 6 ft., in good condition. $40 815677-0292 24” white bathroom vanity w/ faucet & sink. $30.

815-288-4397 3 Wood cabinets 815-288$100 3754 4,000 oak kitchen cabinets in stock.

Builder Discount 815-626-4561 5,000 Bags of fertilizer, mulch, lawn care. Builder Discount 626-4561 Black & Decker 7.25 in. circular saw. $25 815-284-2685 Broadcast spreader 65lb capacity used one time $50 815-288-1999 Carmel Womans leather coat sz.

13/14. Tags still on.

New $249, selling for $100. 815-5902625 Do you need Gravel for Driveways?

Call 815-499-7195 Free horse manure for your garden. Call 815284-0461 Futon- black metal base, thick mattress. Exc. cond. $75. 815-772-3224 Genie slim leggings 2pr., 1 blk., 1 blue. Sz. 2X. $10 ea. 815-625-8805.

Glazed porcelain 6x6 beige tiles.

Qty. 34 $20 (815) 284-2685 Green round turtle FREE. sandbox.

815-625-6284

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: W equals P “ZRJ ZE JTN OKHVLNDD ZE SB AGEN

King bed w/frame like new. $250.

815-718-4385.

... G WRJ UNEZHN BZR JTN ZLN CHNKJ

Like new bathroom faucet $25 815-288-4397

JTGLC JZ AZYN ZL NKHJT: JTN UANDD-

Like new kitchen sink & faucet. $25. 815-288-4397 Locket, black hills gold by Coleman unworn. $35 815440-3785 Medical Supplies for in home care. hospital bed, lift chair & more.

Best Offer 815-762-1716 Need Lawn Equipment?

Starting a new lawn business? I have everything you need to get started. Call 815-590-0987 New Samsung Galaxy Tab S. Tablet w/ charger, manual, stylus, & nice case. $400/obo.

Cash only. 815-994-8451 Nice matched pair of 1942 Illinois License plates $30 815-275-3131 Oak, 12 gun, gun cabinet, drawers, safety locks.

Like New! $300 815-625-0966 St. Louis baseball cards. 47 cards @ $1 ea. 815-2842685

NEW TODAY Tree Work,Trimming & Hauling, Yard Cleanup 779-245-0527

N O D K P H K S N L J . ” - - F . H . H . J Z AV G N L Previous Solution: “Preachers who avoid every thorny matter so as not to be harassed do not light up the world.”

-- Archbishop Oscar Romero (c) 2015 by NEA, Inc., dist. by Universal Uclick 4-4

Astrograph Put your worries aside Saturday, April 4, 2015 It’s time to put your needs first.

You are a naturally helpful and kind soul, but it is up to you to secure your future. Resentment will ensue if you continue to let others demand too much of your time. Make your goals your top priority.

event.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- You may be surprised to learn how many people are on your side. Don’t be afraid to call in favors and ask for assistance. Your efforts will not go unnoticed.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept.

22) -- Don’t expect others to help you get ahead. Do your homework and take the steps that lead to success. You have the knowledge you need, so stop wasting time and get moving.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- You will miss an important detail if you are too impatient.

Taking the time to go over your work thoroughly will prevent you from having to start all over again.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -Staying on top of trends will be a key factor in getting ahead.

Upgrade your skills and your look if you want to be seen as a leader.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -Let your creativity shine. You should share your talents with as many people as possible. If you maintain a positive outlook, Lady Luck will pay you a visit.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- Your stress level is on the rise. Plan a pleasurable day with family, friends or neighbors.

Include the younger members of your group for added fun.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -- Trust in the decisions you make. Doubts will weigh you down and impede your progress.

Don’t be dissuaded by the concerns or comments of others.

Aim to come out on top.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- Don’t rely on others to bring you out of your funk. Treat yourself to something special.

Go shopping or sightseeing, or take in a cultural or sporting

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- Put your worries aside. Arrange a gathering of friends and family for some lighthearted entertainment. You have what it takes to be the

perfect host and to bring people together.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Stop berating yourself if things don’t go your way. You can only control so much, and you risk damaging your health if you dwell only on the negative possibilities.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) -- Plan a makeover or update your image. The better you look, the better you’ll feel. A new look will refresh and rejuvenate you, giving you the energy required to get ahead.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) -- You will wear yourself out if you fight the changes that are going on around you. Find a way to fit in rather than go against the grain.

©2015 UFS

Get your ad noticed!

GO BOLD CLASSIFIEDS SAUK VALLEY dailyGAZETTE

TELEGRAPH

Sudoku!

Answer on D1

One Convenient Location Advertise in the Sauk Valley Service Directory to promote your business services, including: home improvement, snow removal, seasonal, general contracting, and more!

PUZZLE ENTHUSIASTS: Get more puzzles in

CALL

“Random House Crossword MegaOmnious” Vols. 1 & 2

815-625-3600 815-284-2222

To place your AD TODAY!

Reasonable Rates!

Section of the Daily Gazette, Telegraph and on saukvalley.com.

Also in The Review located on newstands throughout the Sauk Valley.

(815) 626-SOLD (7653) (815) 284-SOLD (7653)

CLASSIFIEDS SAUK VALLEY dailyGAZETTE

TELEGRAPH

SAUK VALLEY MEDIA • Saturday, April 4, 2015 • PAGE D7

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 Twin, full, queen, king beds. Washer & dryer, coffee table, recliner, side by side refrig, elec. stove, table & chairs, sofa, dresser, sofa sleeper.

815-718-4385.

HAY & STRAW

825

Grass mix hay, nice size bales, $3.75. Call 815284-0461 Round bales alfalfa & grass mixed $40/ea. Grass hay, small square bales, $3/ea. Alfalfa sm. sq. bales $3.50/ea.

815-946-2568.

CLASSIC CARS

904

Antique 1990 Buick Reata convertible.

Runs good, new tires.

Asking $3,200.

630-945-0166

AUTOMOBILES

905

NEW REAL DEAL FOR ITEMS OVER $300 A 5 Line REAL DEAL

ad runs for 30 days in Sauk Valley Classifieds, 4 Ogle County Papers, The Review and saukvalley.com all for only $38!

Special must be mentioned at time of ad placement.

Offer expires 12/31/15

No Commercial Advertising, Pets, Garage Sales, Wood/ Fuel, Tickets/ Travel or Real Estate

1993 Pontiac Grand Am. New tires, runs great.

Maintains mechanically 174k. mi. $2,000 obo. 815501-5935 1997 Mercury Sable, 90K mi., runs great. $1,500/obo 815-441-7235

AUTOMOBILES

Credit Problems?

Bad Credit? No Credit? We might be able to help! If you're looking to buy a vehicle we have many financing options available through qualified lenders. Call Brett Simpson today at 815-2855313. Ken Nelson Auto Plaza.

FOR SALE: 1994 Pontiac Sunbird LE Convertible $1300/obo 815-994-0194 Grey 2014 Ford Escape. 21K mi. $23,000 815-6254820 HAVING TROUBLE wording your ad? Call our classified department today. We'll be glad to help you. 626SOLD or 284SOLD. One Owner! 2004 Cadillac DeVille, perfect condition, 47,000 miles $6000 815-288-5826

TRUCKS

910

2001 Dodge Dakota SLT, 91,900mi.

Typical Dodge rust over wheel wells & bumpers.

New muffler, brakes recently. 2” class 3 hitch w/flat 4 wiring & topper.

Well maintained with records. New price $3000/obo.

815441-2557 lv. msg.

VANS

911

2006 Grand Caravan, handicap van with power ramp.

Very good cond. $7995. Call Sauk Valley Motors, 815288-5626 or 815622-6655.

For Sale: Complete set of Weather Guard Bins for Chevy or GMC van. Come take a look and make an offer.

815-499-6901

PARTS & ACC.

925

Weather Guard diamond cut deep tool box, for full size truck bed, good shape $350 815-590-0419

MOTORCYCLES

creditautosales dixon.com Always over 100+ vehicles to choose from.

905

935

1995 Suzuki RF 900 25k mi. fresh service, good condition. $2,300 815626-4887.

MOTORCYCLES

935

2004 Harley Davidson Electra-Glide Classic, $9500, many extras. Must See! 815-973-0977 2009 Harley Fatboy. 9,805 miles, excellent condition! $11,000 815-564-7552 2012 Harley Davidson Road Glide Ultra, exc. cond. 12,061 mi., Vance & Hines pipes, stage 1 air cleaner, Sony stereo, w/ Rockford fosgate 300 watt amp, (inner fairing has been painted to match the bike) also comes w 2007 Aluma LTD trailer, $21,500 815-7163267

A.T.V.S

936

2008 Kawasaki 250 Bayou automatic, like new condition, $2500 w/electric sprayer; $2200 w/out.

815-379-2541

BOATS/MOTORS

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.

940

1983 Mariner outboard, 115HP includes 18' tri-hull boat and trailer.

Very nice! $2500.

815-499-0699.

TRAILERS/RVS

CLASSIFIEDS 945

14,000 lb.

20' wood deck trailer tag, no rust, safety yellow, full width heavy duty HD, exp. metal ramps, new tires, $3,900 815-622-2622

AUTOS WANTED

Sauk Valley Media

960

$$$$$$$$$$$$$ 815-499-3543

CASH 4-CARS

We are licensed & insured to buy vehicles. Running or non running, scrap, Ect. 7 days a week.

All Calls Answered!

(815)499-3543 $$$$$$$$$$$$$ RUNNERS $100-$500 $$$ 815-878-4981 We Buy Used cars & trucks.

Call Dixon ATV 815-288-2146

publishers of

TELEGRAPH

dailyGAZETTE

CLASSIFIEDS deals small ads

sauk valley

MISCELLANEOUS 796 FOR SALE

CALL TODAY! 815/284.2222

BIG

815/625.3600

SERVING THE ROCK RIVER VALLEY COMMUNITY SINCE 2007 DIXON FORD VW MAZDA Your Local Northern Illinois One Price Dealer.

Conveniently Located On Route 2 Between Dixon & Sterling

DIXON FORD

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JUNE 2015

of Hassle Free Buy e in om

DIXON

489 IL Route 2, Dixon IL

g

H

LOCAL PEOPLE YOU CAN TRUST! Business Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-8pm • Sat. 8am-5pm

815-288-3366

dixonflm.com

Bob Baeza

Drew Rowley

Gerald Lott

Jared McCullough

Mark Kromeke

Mike Bonnell

Wheels

Saturday, April 4, 2015

www.saukvalley.com

SV Weekend • D8

2015 Nissan GT-R

Paid Advertisement

By Terry Box The Dallas Morning News (TNS)

E

ven sitting silent in a warm, dry garage, the boulevard barbarian glared hard, oozing marooncolored menace. I kept my distance. All high-performance cars can be as prickly as a schizoid ex and just as highmaintenance.

But the fast-and-furious Nissan GT-R radiates “different” the way Billy Bob Thornton does a slightly unsettling mix of cold efficiency blended with the personality of an assassin on steroids.

Who doesn’t love the GT-R’s retina-flattening acceleration and its ability to corner so violently that your heart ends up somewhere below your liver?

I just never liked the car very much.

Consider this: The designers of the GT-R apparently found much of their inspiration in large industrial robots Carbot, the Microsoft killer. For 2015, though, Nissan sought to soften the GT-R just a tad while maintaining its ruthless road manners.

Go easy on the beast, and you might manage to scratch out 16 miles per gallon in town and 23 on the highway. whooshes.

Among the changes were new spring rates and dampers, along with a softer front anti-roll bar and bushings.

Most of the time now, you no longer feel the need to pull on a Nomex racing suit and grab a helmet before hopping into the I know, I know. With the track-hungry GT-R. way Nissan has cranked out commodity cars of late, we have The deeply maroon 2015 good reason to be skeptical.

Premium model I had recently But, hey, when you’re dealing looked exactly like GT-Rs did with a near-legendary all- when they arrived in the U.S. wheel-drive coupe that bristles in 2009 _ just with a bit more with 545 angry horsepower and sheen and polish. can swat most Porsches, would you really take any chances of With still-classic proportions, messing it up? the GT-R defiantly faced the world with a long, broad hood, Of course not, and Nissan did huge vertical headlamps and a pretty good job of smoothing oversized grille. a few of the GT-R’s rough edges while preserving most of its The car’s low-slung top curved sinister clanks, whirrs and down into a flat, short trunk

still wearing a laughably large albeit functional spoiler. It ain’t beautiful, kids. But the GT-R still sports a bunch of interesting features like unusual squaredoff front fenders.

At $106,650, the GT-R is more than twice as expensive as any other vehicle in Nissan’s mostly pedestrian lineup, accounting for only about 1,400 sales a year.

So the big all-wheel-drive coupe is either grossly overpriced or packs some monster content, and I’d bet Chateau Box and my [th-acre vineyard out back on unique parts and pieces.

The doors and rear fenders also get puffed up some with shoulders on their tops, and in back, the GT-R mutters darkly at traffic through five-inch diameter exhausts two on each The intercooled and side of the rear fascia. turbocharged V-6 starts with a barely muted bang, settling into Though mostly square in shape, a flat, impatient 900-rpm idle. the GT-R looked ominously Push the console-mounted muscular, crouched low on shift lever to the right to engage meaty 255/40 tires wrapped the manual mode of the GTaround gray 10-spoke wheels. R’s dual-clutch six-speed automatic transmission a In fact, the big coupe seems process that generally elicited a so substantial that it’s hard to clunk and clang. believe that a relatively small 3.8-liter V-6 lives beneath its You can leave it in automatic vented hood _ and makes mind- mode, but I don’t recommend bending power. it. The transmission feels as

clumsy as me at a senior singles sock-hop, upshifting at 3,000 rpm and just seeming generally out of step.

Use the paddle shifts, and once in first, ease into the accelerator.

Up to about 2,000 rpm, the GT-R feels no more lively than a 370Z convertible adequate but hardly awesome.

But from there to the car’s 7,000 rpm red line, the two-ton terminator accelerates with shocking, chest-compressing velocity, howling hoarsely with little wheel spin to 60 in an utterly astounding 3 seconds, according to Car and Driver.

Go easy on the beast, and you might manage to scratch out 16 miles per gallon in town and 23 on the highway.

KEN NELSON AUTO GROUP LOCALLY OWNED OVER 500 VEHICLES All IN 1 LOCATION

www.KenNelsonAuto.com

NEW 2015 NISSAN ALTIMA S

NEW 2015 NISSAN SS SENTRA S S #N NF109

0% up to 72 Monthss

197

1

MSRP....................... $18,525 Ken Nelson Discount...... $17,999 Rebates............................$500 NMAC Cash......................$250

16,997 997

SALE $ PRICE

*

*

a

20,218

22 212 22,212

SALE $ * PRICE NEW W 2014 NISSAN JUKE NISMO

#N NE193

Ken Nelson Discount...... $25,085

*

342

Mike Freeman Craig Buchanan

General Manager

#NE088

MSRP....................... $39,670

Ken Nelson Discount...... $35,782 Customer Cash................ $4,000 NMAC Cash...................... $500

SALE PRICE

31,282

ALL NEW BODY STYLE

*

2015 NISSAN MURANO SL with Tech Pkg MSRP.........$42,810

c

MSRP........................ $26,500

25,085

*

NEW 2014 NISSAN MAXIMA

299

Ken Nelson Discount...... $23,212 NMAC............................... $250 Rebate.............................. $750

SALE $ PRICE

Ken Nelson Discount...... $22,468 Rebates............................ $1,250 NMAC Cash...................... $1,000

c

MSRP........................ $24,380

a

MSRP....................... $24,315

SALE $ PRICE

#NF110

1

239

1

NEW 2015 015 NISSAN ROGUE S AWD

0% up to 60 Months

0% up to 72 Months

#NF042

Sales Manager

Bob Pilling

Sales Manager

Rick Hauser Brett Simpson

#NF125

Carl Buehler Chad Conderman Jamie Curia

SALE PRICE

Rusty Baker Adam Chapman

39,999

Eli Dickey Chase VanHolten Josh Vannoy

Sales Manager Business Manager Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional

1050 N. Galena Ave - Dixon, IL - 815.288.4455 - www.KenNelsonAuto.com

*Prices do not include tax, title, license or doc fees. 1. Must finance through NMAC. Not all buyers will qualify for financing. a. 0% apr for 72 months. $3,000 Cash Down or Trade-In Value. c. 2.99% apr for 72 months. $3,000 Cash Down or Trade-In Value.With approved credit. Photos for illustration purposes only. Dealer not liable for errors.

**