STERLING-JUNE 2012-SAUK VALLY SUN

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June 2012

DayByDay Media, LLC 1620 Sauk Rd. Dixon, IL 61021

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Sauk Valley Sun

Vol. 1 Issue 4

Sterling/Rock Falls Edition

SHOPPER

The little shopper with the big impact

THE BRAND WINE LIST

“Moms, Dads, Proms, Harry, and the Band” By Chuck Miller, General Manager The month of May was an exciting month here at the Brandywine. Early in the month we provided the venue for both the Dixon and Newman proms. I cannot say enough good things about these schools. A big thanks to Steve Boll, Dixon prom advisor, Austin Dillion, Kevin Heath, and all prom committee members. You were all great to work with! See you next year! Newman Catholic High School held their promenade the following weekend and the evening was a smash hit! Thanks to Debbie Kelley and Bobbie Hannan for making it such a memorable night. A note to the parents of both of these schools: All of these students were polite, respectful, well-mannered, and fun. Mid May brought us a very special event as the Brandywine was chosen for the 50th Wedding Anniversary dinner of Jose and Elvira Cervantes. Table skirting, table runners, centerpieces all in champagne (available at the Brandywine), helped set the mood to a fun and elegant evening. Our compliments to Aurelio of Aurelio’s Cake Shop on his gorgeous cake! The next day brought our premiere event of the year, our “Mother’s Day Brunch”. We sold out early Getting the boat and over 600 guests enjoyed one of our favorite events. Don’t miss out on our Father’s Day Brunch on Sunday, June 17th. out? See Brent’s We will be serving our usual grand buffet featuring baby back pork ribs and all you can eat prime rib!

The Dixon Municipal Band hosted a fundraiser on May 18th at the Brandywine. Everyone in attendance had a great time Upholstery for and music filled the Grand Ballroom and Saddle Bar. We love doing fundraisers and offer discounts to make your group Marine Audio! or charity obtain much needed funds. Our “Brandywine Cares” Program is more than a cliché. We really do enjoy helping worthwhile causes!

Have you seen

The month of May closed with a unique experience as we welcomed in the crew of NBC’s “Rock Center with Brian Williams”. The lower level of the Brandywine was transformed into a rustic studio and it was fascinating to view Fun Jump’s the setting up process. You can imagine our surprise when news giant, Harry Smith, walked in the door. Harry Smith is coupon for their not only one of the most recognizable faces on news television, but a very down to earth person. He was generous with Indoor Playground! his time as everyone got a chance for conversations and pictures. Gaylene Stomberg made a guest chef appearance and her food and presentation lauded to her many, many compliments. Setting up this event with NBC News producer, Glenn Dacy, was a great experience. We both agreed that the allurement of the Brandywine is its rustic ambiance and the fact Have the taste for that nothing is nailed down. We are able to create any type of atmosphere the customer desires.

A Memorial weekend break and it’s back to business as usual. June brings us many awesome wedding receptions, and Mexican food with an award event hosted by CGH Hospital. Don’t forget about our amazing Father’s Day Brunch featuring all you can eat an Irish touch?

Prime Rib on June 17th. Feel free to give me a call anytime at 815-284-8484 to help plan your next event!

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Page 2

Honor Our Vets

ACCENTS

Sauk Valley Sun

Written : 5-7-2010

We set aside a day each year, to honor those no longer here,

we used to call it Decoration Day. Memorial day, it’s proper name, but that’s okay, it’s still the same,

just so we don’t forget those gone away.

We honor vets especially, all those who died for you and me,

a special year for vets of World War Two. Sixty-five years passed since that war, a special tribute is in store,

to honor the World War Two “Living Few.”

Bridal Registry Available!

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Inside Northland Mall In Sterling

Two million left out of sixteen, and all the rest have left the scene,

each day eleven hundred passing on.

At present rate five years from now, there’ll be so few to take a bow,

it’s best to honor them before they’re gone.

This year let’s remember each date, starting with VE-Day, May eight,

and one week later comes Armed Forces Day. May eight, fifteen and thirty-one, lets honor all vets, here and gone,

that’s three honor days in the month of May. On June the sixth of forty-four, D-Day on the Normandy shore.

Honor our vets on June fourteenth, Flag Day. Independence Day, July four, the twenty-seventh is one more,

National Korean War Armistice Day. In August we’ve not set aside, any one day that turned the tide,

that led up to the final surrender.

I’m sure that both the atom bombs, helped move that famous day along,

VJ-Day, the second of September.

Nine-eleven, Patriot Day, POW, MIA,

on nine-seventeen, Recognition Day. Veterans Day, November eleven, Pearl Harbor Day, December seven,

twelve days to honor vets here and away.

So folks get out your calendar, along with a big red marker,

and circle all the days we pay respects.

The veterans of our Great Land, have and are giving us a hand,

lets give one back to them, HONOR OUR VETS!!

By Stanley E. Wolzen

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Sauk Valley Sun

parenting

The Hardhat Parent

How do you feel when you recognize that your child has disobeyed (or been careless)? This question always stirs emotional answers. “It hurts my feelings. I feel angry. I am disappointed.” Those answers are sincere, but none of them help us. The truth is that when we recognize that our children have been disobedient we should be happy. It is only when we recognize that they have done wrong that we can teach them to do better. The parent, who never recognizes rebellion, cannot actively teach their child to have a cooperative spirit. The parent who excuses anger and defiance will not teach a child self control. When a child struggles, the emotions of a parent are easy to understand, but those understandable emotions are dangerous. Parents are too quick to throw their hands in the air and make extreme statements suggesting all is lost. Embarrassment and disappointment should be a minor concern. The future is the concern. The future is not lost because you have a negative moment in time. Many disappointments come simply because times change, we see things differently and our egos feel threatened. “I have never seen such a blatant disregard for authority!” Kids know this is hypocrisy. All kids rebel. We did, our parents did. That rebellion is reflected by the character of the times, but is not different because the expression seems worse to those out of step with the times. My mom and her friends tipped over outhouses. My dad got a Mohawk haircut to be ‘one of the guys’. Mary had someone pull a gun on her for ‘Tee Peeing’ a house. We made prank calls, squealed tires, played loud music and wore long hair. Did anyone of us respond well to humiliating words or belligerent actions? You may hate the expressions of rebellion that are common in our day, the music, tattoos and body piercing. It is true that crime can define many aspects of a life, even mischief can cast a long shadow, but God measures us by what we become, not by what we did. Let us approach every circumstance with reasonable hope. There is something about the obvious disobedience of a child that ought to stimulate our thinking and our sense of hope. When they disobey they are showing you what they need. If they are showing you what they need, you can identify where they need training. When small children are strong willed; thank God for that. Teaching a strong willed child to have direction is a gift to the world. An adult with a weak will and an undisciplined life often struggles in a ways a more active parent could have prevented. Understanding this principle of not being angry when your child demonstrates they have a need will help you have a relaxed and loving home. This is a balancing act. Patience does not stand alone to meet the needs of the child. The love that inspires patience must partner with the decision to teach the child how they may better do what they need to do. This begins with caring for simple personal needs. If you find yourself saying, I told you a thousand times to brush your teeth, know first that you lied! Know secondly that they need supervision until their character is developed. You can be a helper and supervisor with humor and a partner of good will, or you can be an antagonist. We all hate an antagonist.

by Jeff Coester

Page 3

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Page 4 KITCHEN INCUBATOR

Maybe you missed it! I’m glad that I didn’t! The Kitchen Incubator of N.W. Illinois open house was held at its location at 1741 Industrial Drive in Sterling on Wednesday, May 16th, and it really impressed me! The pastries by Rob Young rivaled anything that I have tasted in Europe or the U. K! There were hundreds of attendees with many coming from other states to see the facility and obtain information on how they could set up their own site. There is no other like facility in Illinois and the nearest known kitchen incubator is in Algoma, Wisconsin.

This wonderful, local opportunity started when Heather Sotelo attended a program in Wisconsin eleven months ago. With assistance from the City of Sterling, the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Sterling Development Corporation and donations, this dream has become a reality. It is an Illinois licensed commercial food manufacturing facility with three workstations for a variety of food processing, Above: Main Kitchen cold and freezer storage and permanent storage. This provides an opportunity to chefs, bakers, caterers, food entrepreneurs, restauranteurs, farmers and teachers -the opportunities are endless! Fund-raisers can rent the facility by the hour; new businesses and educational organizations can also use the specialized equipment. Individuals can use the large facility for canning.

There are 6-month and 12-month contractual rates as well as occasional use rates.

Above: Bakery

Krista Morthland, an experienced county health provider, is the full-time kitchen manager. Krista is responsible for regular inspections, food service sanitation and liability issues.

What an opportunity to stimulate not only our local economy, but to give those who may be unemployed or a displaced worker a chance to meet their own needs, as well as those of our community. Food sanitation classes are offered by the incubator.

For further information, please call 815-626-COOK (626-2665). Freshly baked items or locally grown produce - YUM! I’m ready!

By Carol Chandler

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Sauk Valley Sun

small business

What’s Brad Talking About?

“A Passion for Business”

by Brad Monson

My last column pertained to the decisions we make. In this column I defer to a man who made a decision to follow his passion. In less than 45 minutes I could understand his determination and relate to the “who”, “what”, “where”, “why”, “when”, and “how” of his business.

It’s called “Cobblestone Gardens” located at 1075 N. Galena Ave., just across from the Ken Nelson Dealership in Dixon, not to be confused with “Cobblestone Ice Cream & Deli” in Sterling, IL although the owners, Josh and Alison Burkhalter are the same.

Josh opened his business up on May 1st of this year. He has annuals, perennials, and all kinds of vegetables, including different herbs. He indicated to me that if does not have what you are looking for, he can get it. He points out that he is most interested in quality and looking at his fresh selections, you can see the care and maintenance he puts into his business. He is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week, through the late fall.

Not knowing too much about gardens, I was given a short education about the difference between annuals and perennials, and why the difference in brightness and color, and that some have to be replanted and others do not. His ‘Chef Jeff Line’ of vegetables including tomatoes, peppers, broccoli and herbs, and the like are “top of the line”. In addition, Josh was very proud of his great wide array of hanging baskets which he has on hand. He says that he offers high quality, with great prices, along with his many years of knowledge in the industry. Josh said that in his past experiences, he has traveled all over the country working in the garden industry and he has learned from the best and knows where the best selections come from.

When I was talking to Josh, some customers stopped by and said hello, all smiles. Josh is well-known in the community and over the years people come directly to him for their garden needs. It is no wonder they have complete faith in him with what they plant in the ground. He maintains his inventory probably almost as well as he does his two children, Ashtyn, who is 3 and Juliana who is 15 months. This year the weather has been, to say the least, varying, and Josh has met the challenge to preserve the quality.

For great personal service, I highly recommend that you visit Cobblestone Gardens and see what he has on hand for you. You will definitely be happy you did.

For more information about Brad, go to www.bradmonson.com

Parkway Center's 25th Anniversary Celebration Tickets In Advance: $30 each or $50 per couple

Wine & Beer Tasting

VIP Tables (seats 8): $500 & Includes Dinner.

Saturday, June 16th 6:00pm - 9:00pm At Parkway Center 1801 Avenue G - Sterling

Tickets May Be Purchased At: Parkway Center, Sauk Valley Bank, Crystal Cork, & CGH Gift Shop

Crystal Cork will be onsite with 30 varieties of wine & 10 different beers.

At The Door: $30 each

Hors d’oeuvres, silent auction & entertainment * A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Prescott Dental Clinic, a part of the CGH Foundation, who is also celebrating their 25th Anniversary.

Presented By Parkway Center & Sauk Valley Bank.

Sauk Valley Sun

DIXON Immanuel Lutheran Church ELCA - Pastor Frank Langhoff 1013 Franklin Grove Road.

(815) 284-2804 Saturday Service at 5:30 pm Sunday Services at 8 am and 10:30 am Immanueldixon.org

Page 5

local churches

DIXON

STERLING

Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church LCMS-Pastor David Andermann 2035 IL Rt. 26 N (815) 284-4554 Sundays Service at 9 am

The Big Red Church Pastor Jeff Coester 311 2nd Ave. (815) 625-5112 Sunday School 9 am Sunday Worship 10 am Tuesday Prayer Mtg 6 pm Tuesday Bible Study 7 pm

STERLING

STERLING

Amazing Grace of Sterling Pastor Loren Schlomer 512 2nd Ave. (815) 625-9300 Saturday Service 7pm Sunday Service 10am Wednesday Service 7pm revivalfires.net

Abiding Word Church Pastor Scott Porter 806 E. Lynn Blvd.

(815) 626-1827 Saturday Service at 6:00 pm Sunday Services at 10:00 am abidingwordchurch.org

Want to see your church listed? Only $99 per year. Call 815-888-4403.

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441 IL Rte. 2 - Dixon

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Page 6

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Don’t miss out on a chance to participate in Vacation Bible School July 16, 17, & 18.

Questions?

Call Courtney 815-441-3577 311 2nd Ave - Sterling 815-625-5112 Sunday, 9:00 am Sunday School Sunday, 10:00 am Church Service 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the Month,

6:30pm-8:00pm Youth Group Courtney Thompson ,Youth Coordinator

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Pastor Scott’s Corner

Sauk Valley Sun

faith

by Scott Porter

Hello, my name is Scott Porter. I am the pastor of Abiding Word Church in Sterling, Illinois. I have been in ministry at Abiding Word for 26 ½ years. I was born in Dixon, raised in Rock Falls, and I now live in Sterling. I have been invited to share with you each month, a column I call PASTOR SCOTT’S CORNER. I hope you enjoy it. You can send questions or comments to scottd16@aol.com or check out our church website at www.abidingwordchurch. org.

What do you do when “STUFF” happens? Too many times, we quit. I want to encourage you today, to never, ever, ever, ever….QUIT!

Over the years, I have attended many public dinners and banquets for different organizations. Nearly every time I’m present at one of these events, I’ll be asked, “It’s prayer time. Pastor Scott, would you bless the meal?” And when they ask, many times, I will reply, “I will be happy to, but why don’t YOU bless the meal?” Now, why do I do that? I do it because it’s kind of funny to watch people squirm! And almost every time I do that, they’ll be like, “Oh no, no, no, no, no!

You’re the Pastor and I’m just a “REGULAR” Christian!”

And you can almost hear what they are thinking, it’s kind of like, “You know, you’re a Pastor and I’m just a stay-at-home Mom!” or “you’re the Pastor and I’m just a student!” You know, and “I’m just an entry-level Bank Teller! Or you’re the Pastor, and I just work in a factory!!” Etc, etc, etc.

And what they’re almost saying is, I’m just a regular Christian! If you ever feel that way you don’t really know who you are, because if you’re a Christian, there is nothing regular about you. You need to understand that you are filled with the same Spirit that raised Christ from the grave, that’s not regular! You have access to the very Throne of God, that’s not regular! You have the authority to use the Name that is above every name, the Name of Jesus Christ. There is nothing regular about you.

And, whether you are a Christian or not, God has given us so many gifts, talents, and abilities to help us win in life. He has placed these gifts, not only in our own lives, but in the lives of people around us to help us, and bless us.

I love to see others use their gifts to be a blessing. Whether in our local church, or at work. People are fulfilled and feel true meaning and a sense of purpose when they can contribute to the task at hand.

Which brings me to a personal story that has changed my life. You may have noticed that I didn’t write my usual column in the May issue of the Sauk Valley Sun.

I was preparing to write my column, but on April 18th, I had a pain in my left chest and a pain in my left shoulder. I performed a wedding at 2:00 pm that afternoon, but at 3:00 pm when I picked my wife up at Sterling High School where she works as a teacher’s aid, I told my wife, “I need to go to the emergency room at CGH Medical Center in Sterling.”

After several days of tests, scans, and consultation, it was determined that I had multiple blockages in my coronary arteries. I was transported, by ambulance, to Aurora, IL and the Provena Mercy Medical Center.

On April 24th, I underwent quadruple bypass surgery on my heart. I am thankful for all of the doctors, nurses, surgeons, assistants, anesthesiologists, and everyone else who helped me by using the gifts, talents, and abilities given to them by God to save my life.

Thankfully, there was no damage done to my heart muscle (i.e. no heart attack) and that my prognosis is great for a full recovery, after extensive cardio rehab.

God and the doctors have done their part, now it’s up to me to do my part in diet, exercise, prayer, rest, and being a good boy! God bless, and thank you for your prayers. I’m taking it day by day, and seeing life as the gift that it is!

Your Ad Here! or you competitors...

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815-888-4403 SaukSun@gmail.com

Sauk Valley Sun

health

Page 7

by Carol Chandler JUNE IS NATIONAL MEN’S HEALTH MONTH

Okay! Okay! I wrote last month about women’s health, so now it’s the men’s turn. I wouldn’t want to be accused of being sexist!

The ten top health issues for men are: heart disease; cancer; chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD emphysema or chronic bronchitis); type #2 diabetes; flu; injuries or accidents; stroke; suicide; kidney disease; and Alzheimer’s disease. The World Health Organization has found that 26 countries in the world have higher male life expectancies than the U.S.A. Come on guys! We need you! Men’s health is not only important to all those who love them, but also to the economy when you figure in lost-time wages, lost-time production, rising insurance costs, federal assistance programs and disability benefits.

Another serious health issue, but not included in the top ten, is high blood pressure. It can cause heart disease or stroke and is called “the silent killer” because it often has no symptoms but can cause serious problems if it goes untreated for a long time. Getting your blood pressure taken only takes a minute and doesn’t hurt. Clinics, drug companies and local health organizations frequently host free blood pressure testing, so watch for them in your paper.

All these serious health issues can be limited by following the same general rules: Get checked by your doctor on a regular basis, don’t smoke, maintain a normal weight, limit your salt and fat intake, keep your alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks daily, stay physically active (walking is cheap and really works), and reduce your stress. Sounds kind of overwhelming, doesn’t it?

Several of these suggestions involve your eating habits. My best suggestion is READ THE LABELS when you are purchasing food. There are large amounts of salt and fats in many of our foods - especially “fast foods.” And don’t be fooled by the salad that is low in calories until you put on salad dressings loaded with, guess what! Salts and fats! I know that this will take time initially, but soon your purchases will become a habit and you will be on your way to better health.

Keeping physically active not only helps you maintain a healthy weight, it is a good stress reducer.

Park a block from where you need to go, take the steps instead of the elevator. If you have a hard time working an exercise routine into your daily life, take these short exercise routines. I always think that for every day that I follow my healthy suggestions, I am going to be rewarded with another day of health to spend with my family and friends. We need you guys. If you don‘t want to do this for yourself, please do it for all those who love you.

An Affordable Assisted Lifestyle Community For The Older Adult Of All Income Levels!

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Page 8

Sauk Valley Sun

Homes For Sale LEASE WITH OPTION TO BUY Buying A Home Is Part Of The American Dream, But For Many Seems Nearly Impossible.

3 bedroom/2 bath with recent updates in Dixon $23,900

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Sauk Valley Sun

Page 9 Sauk Valley Community College Bridges for Learning Math

fitness

Yoga With Nancy

by Nancy Nesyto-Freske

Certified Yoga Instructor & Theraputic Yoga Instructor YOGA ETIQUETTE

I am asked a lot of questions from new students about some of the customs and other etiquette in Yoga. Each studio has their own policies, but here is a summary of the basics.

• Never wear shoes in the studio. We practice with bare feet or socks. Shoes are dirty.

• Wear comfortable clothing.

Fancy “yoga clothes” are not necessary. Jeans or tight fitting clothing is not appropriate.

• Perfumes, colognes, strong deodorants and lotions are never worn. With so much focus on breathing, we can be sensitive to strong smells.

• If you are late for the class, and the students are in the initial relaxation, please wait outside the studio on the bench until we have finished chanting OM. The space is very quiet and someone coming in and setting up can be very distracting.

• When chanting, always allow the teacher to lead the chant. So, don’t jump the gun.

• Turn off your cell phones. Even having them on vibrate can be distracting when in a relaxation mode. And guess what, everyone stops relaxing because they’re wondering if it is their phone!

• Don’t chew gum!

If you have any other questions about Yoga, please feel free to contact me at Nancy@dixonyoga.com.

The Bridges for Learning Math program serves students who have completed grade 12 and will enter SVCC or another university as freshman in the fall.

It is intended to serve as a bridge between high school mathematics and college or university expectations. This summer bridge program allows for the student to attend a free eight week summer course to accelerate his or her learning in the area of math. The course is designed to help those students wanting to increase knowledge of math now to avoid participation in developmental courses (students who scored 16 – 19 on their Math ACT are eligible).

The program starts June 4 and will meet Mondays & Wednesday from 2:30 – 4:30. For more information or to register, please contact Lisa Tavitas, Director of Academic Development, at 815-835-6250 or tavital@svcc.edu.

Call Us About Our Great Rates! You can be in the Sauk Valley Sun too!

815-888-4403 Singles Of Sauk S.O.S.

New Book!

One of our own Sauk Valley Sun Writers, Jill Horn, has recently published a new book titled “The Development of the Mathematical Mind.“ This book will be available for purchase at Book World in the Northland Mall and The Good Book in Dixon. Jill will be signing and selling the books for $6 at the following locations: Morrison Farmers Market, Sat. June 2nd from 8-11am, Sauk Valley Community College Bookstore, Wed. June 13th from noon-2pm, the Center for Youth at 312 E. 4th St., Sterling, Sat. June 16th from 10am-noon, Dixon Jumble, Fri. June 22nd from 7-3pm, Twin Cities Farmer’s Market, Sterling, Sat. June 23rd from 9am-noon, and “Let Freedom Ring Festival” in Mt. Morris, Sun. July 1st from 10am-1pm. Congratulations on publishing the new book Jill!

-The Sauk Valley Sun Team

Mission Statement: To encourage and create a safe singles gathering in a friendly environment for fellowship and wholesome activities.

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Dixon

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Rock Falls 107 1st Ave. 815-564-9000

Page 10

green scene

by Jane Sheaffer

“My Out-of-Town Guest”

In early May, after a morning of chores, I dropped down into a lawn chair with binoculars in hand. I had just filled the bird feeder, so there was the usual predominance of imported house sparrows in spite of our serious attempts to deter them. The house sparrow originated in Europe and was introduced to New York City in the mid-19th century, spreading throughout North America and the world. House sparrows invade the nests of as many as 70 different bird species, destroying both eggs and nestlings. The lovely and indigenous eastern bluebird, is especially hard hit by the destructive house sparrow.

While pondering in discouragement about the unwelcome sparrows, my eye caught a glimmer of an unusual shade of red in the midst of a sea of green. I inspected with closer examination to see only a small cluster of dying leaves. I raised my field glasses with half-attention when my eyes received a jolt. There in front of me was a bird I had never before seen on our property. It was smaller and brighter red than a cardinal and had black wings and tail, and he seemed to be pausing in plain view just for me. It had to be a Scarlet Tanager – and it was! I held the glasses as steadily as I could, drinking in his image. I soaked in the vibrant red and black, the penetrating green of the leaves where he was tucked, and tried to seal the vision in my memory. I stared and stared. My arms at last tired of holding the raised glasses and my head ached from concentration. In a moment of desperate fatigue I thought, do I risk it? Do I dare attempt to make my way back to the house for my camera, risking the loss of the present opportunity?

“A bird in the binoculars,” I thought, “is worth more than no bird at all.” On the other hand, if I could just get a photo, others could see him, too.

The risk paid off. He stayed on the branch long enough for me to manage a few photographs. Finally, I reluctantly returned to my chair, absorbing the honor of his visit and the brilliance of his color. We shared the pleasure of the sun, the shelter of the ancient Rock Maple tree, and that tranquil space for a while longer. Then, he flew east a few yards and lost himself in another large maple tree. It was the last time I saw him – and it had been a privilege.

Consider that the population of the scarlet tanager is declining. Consider that this seven and a half inch bird has made it here, to be in his summer home with us in northern Illinois, all the way from the middle elevation forests in the northwestern Andes mountain range, near the west coast of South America. He has negotiated predators, habitat destruction, high wires, bad weather, aircraft, and 4400 miles to get here safely and say hello. Imagine that. Yes. PLEASE imagine that.

AUTHOR’S NOTES: The following website is an excellent source for more information: http://www. enature.com. I can be contacted at GreenSceneColumn@gmail.com

Introducing a wonderful man!

I find it difficult to describe Bob, though I’ve known him for a very long time. I hope to keep my emotional attachment to him set apart, so I can give you as detached a view of this man as I am able. He was the most unpretentious man I ever met. It’s important that you know I have never known nor heard of anyone who didn’t like Bob. I met him when he was twenty one. He was married and had one child at the time. Bob was a loving husband and a great dad. When Bob needed to go on an errand he often took his little girl with him. The two of them usually sang together on these special trips. Just imagine if you will, this man who was over six foot tall, who had once been a boxer, singing with his little girl.

When Bob was in his yard the neighbor’s children flocked around him.

His wife, Anne, has told me she often took pictures of Bob with these kids and the kids were all smiling from ear to ear, enjoying the moment. But when these same kids had their picture taken with Anne, they needed to be reminded to smile, even though she was the one who often provided lemonade and snacks for all. She really didn’t mind though because she knew first hand what a special man her husband was.

Bob loved to fish and made many of his own lures. About twenty years ago Bob and Anne and my husband and I were in Canada fishing. One day just Bob and I were out in a boat fishing which was a special time for me since it was just the two of us. While I was reeling in my line I realized I was hooked onto something much heavier than the usual fish, even in Canada!

Bob saw that I needed help so he took my fishing pole, which I was glad to hand over to him. Then he took a strong hold of the line, wrapping it hand over hand until up from the depths, he pulled up a huge limb of a tree. Bob loosened my lure from the bark on the limb because he knew how important that lure was to me. He had made that lure and he’s given me many more of his hand made lures since then.

In his later years when Bob was at home he could often be found in his “office”. Bob’s office was a large garden shed. That’s where he made his lures, read, listed to music, and sang while strumming his ukulele. Early one morning while I was visiting Bob and Anne in Arizona, I heard him softly singing while strumming his ukulele. Shortly after Bob died in 1995, I asked his wife if I could have his ukulele and I was absolutely thrilled when she said yes. I was as proud as a peacock carrying his uke through the Phoenix airport and onto the plane, even though it didn’t have a case. That didn’t matter one bit. I wouldn’t have minded if the entire world saw me that day! Bob had strummed that ukulele for many years and that’s all that mattered.

I admire the man Bob was. I wish I had told him so more often than I did.

His response would probably have been (as it had been many times before), “I guess I’ve got you fooled”. But this time I would say, “No Daddy, you really are a special man and a wonderful dad”.

I am proud to say, Bob was my dad. “Thanks for stopping by.”

By Darlene Rego

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Sauk Valley Sun

history

Facts & Beginnings What’s This Nine-Tenths of a Cent?

by Marty Thomas

It is very unlikely that any marketing studies or strategies were used in determining that gasoline prices would end in nine-tenths of a cent as opposed to an even number. However, there is really a big difference between 3.79.9 and 3.80 when looking at the big picture.

Where did this fractional cent begin, it is difficult to tell. Photographs found in Mobil Oil Corporation’s photograph collection along with reference materials show a sign depicting the fractional cent usage as far back as seventy years ago. This picture clearly shows a sign with the price of 14.5 cents per gallon. However, this does not definitively prove that is the first time the fractional pricing strategy was used with the exception that we can definitely say it was no later than the late 1920s or early 1930s.

Demand for gasoline fell sharply during the Great Depression as more than 2.6 million cars and trucks were taken off the road dropping gasoline demand by billions of gallons per year in 1932 and 1933. In order to survive service stations had to try to find new ways of enticing customers. Production was way over demand and serious over supply situations began. One of the ways gas stations owners tempted customers with premiums such as dolls, ash trays, cigarettes and other giveaway items. Along this line, it was assumed that customers would respond to fractional pricing.

Through the coming years petroleum prices continued to raise until the 1970s when the U.S. government issued federal prices and controls with the individual service stations losing control of setting their own prices. It was also during this time that price-per-gallon went above one dollar and most were not capable of handling more than two digits. Until this problem was corrected, they just set their pumps for pricing based on the half-gallon which really generated some strange fractional pricing.

Most motorists have come to accept the nine-tenths of a cent price point, although, they seem to have some reluctance and negative response to prices ending in other fractions. It is so widely accepted that most gasoline users don’t even mention the extra nine-tenths of a cent added on the price-per-gallon when quoting what they just paid for gasoline.

If your June isn’t in tune, here are a few words to pick you up.

“Remember: Stressed spelled backwards is desserts.”

“Save the Earth, it’s the only planet with chocolate.”

“Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.”

Page 11

A Penny for Your Thoughts

I never was this type of person: To not take change back from a cashier.

I think many people are the type, though, who always take the change back, and some put it in a bowl at home. I once had a supervisor who said he and his family filled an empty fish tank with more than $1,000 worth of change, and it paid for a vacation for them. For me, I don’t think I could save that much change and if I got to the half-point, think, why not get something with $500. I tried it once and filled a home bank-bottle with $58.

But to get back to the point, when I get change of $1.01, I used to take the penny, and sometimes I do, but more and more, when the penny is part of the change, I say, “Keep the penny.” I think more people do this, as they think, “What am I going to do with a penny?” Saving up 100 pennies is $1.

There are people who are saying “keep the change” for more than a penny. I have a friend who works at a local gas station, and he said there are people who say, “Keep the change,” and its four cents or even 12 cents. Someone said, “Keep the change,” and it was 63 cents, and it was over a purchase of a pack of chewing gum. Can you believe that?

Do people not want to have change on them? A message to all the people who don’t like change, consider saving your change for 30 days, and you may have enough money to spend for a night out. Just, if you say keep the change and its more than the cost of your purchase, you kind of lose the right to say, “Things cost too much these days.”

By Spencer Schein

Call and ask for Cassy Craft Today!

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Bring this coupon in and get:

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- provided by The Sauk Valley Sun

come as you are

Love God, Love People, Serve The World!

Service Times Saturday 6pm Sunday 10am 806 E. Lynn Blvd - Sterling (815) 626-1827 www.abidingwordchurch.org

Rev. Scott & Terri Porter

Children’s Church & Nursery At All Services

Fusion Middle School Group 6th, 7th, 8th Grades Sunday @ 10am

“The Link” Youth Group High School Age 2nd&4th Sundays @ 6:30pm

Page 12

Used Paperbacks & Comic Books, Trading Cards & Supplies, Role Playing Games & Accessories, Fantasy Collectibles, Coin Supplies, Costume Rentals & Much More!

205 W. First St. Dixon (815) 284-7567 30 years in Downtown Dixon!

STERLING, IL – Each year the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce awards scholarships to help area students continue their education. This year the organization is awarding more than $5000 in scholarships to help local students continue their education.

The 2012 Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce Agri-Business Committee Scholarships were awarded to Andrew Beveroth - Sterling High School, Danielle Cooney – Prophetstown High School, Abbey Grisham – Eastland High School and Sarah Smith – University of Wisconsin - Platteville. The scholarships recipients will receive $1500 scholarships to be used during the 2012-2013 school year.

All are invited to be guests at the Chamber’s annual Steak Fry in the Country August 9, which is a fundraiser for the agri-business scholarship fund.

Another scholarship presented was the Charles A. Farnham Scholarship awarded to a graduating student from Newman Central Catholic, Rock Falls or Sterling High Schools who is pursuing a business career. This scholarship was established in 1968 and honors the late Mr. Farnham who was an active member of the Chamber. Mr. Farnham’s professional background was focused in the area of industrial relations, serving in this capacity at Northwestern Steel and Wire. This year’s recipient of the $1000 scholarship is Mr. Andrew Beveroth of Sterling High School.

Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce President, Tim Determan said, “The Chamber is proud of its commitment to continuing education and we are happy we can once again offer these scholarships to area students. These scholarships help area students pursue their dreams and we hope they include some day returning to the Sauk Valley to pursue their professional goals here.”

The Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce represents nearly 360 area businesses in 23 cities in northwestern Illinois and in Clinton and Davenport, Iowa. For more information on the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, its members or for a schedule of events please go to the website at www.saukvalleyareachamber.com or call: 815-625-2400.

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Sauk Valley Sun

SAUK VALLEY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

The PAPER ESCAPE

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218 Locust St - Sterling 625-7969 or 625-9720

Danielle Cooney

Abbey Grisham

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Hey Sunny here, Just letting you know you we love getting the word out on community events and announcements like the one above. If you or a friend have something you’d like to share let us know!

SaukSun@gmail.com

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Sauk Valley Sun

green living

BPA Packaging

Page 13

SUMMER SPECIAL

by Jill Horn

What is BPA plastic? BPA stands for Bisphenol A, a chemical modifier used in some plastic containers and linings of some canned foods. BPA leaches out into the water, beer, fruits, vegetables or soup etc. in the bottles and cans. We then consume this harmful chemical without knowing it. The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) has done studies linking BPA with the occurrence of heart disease, stroke, liver abnormalities and diabetes. JAMA found that BPA is detected in the urine of 93% of the participants in the study conducted. The highest levels were found in children. And women had higher levels than men.

BPA is found in some clear (or colorful) plastic packaging and in some packaging of canned goods and in baby bottles. You should look for plastic that has #1, 2, 4, or 5 on the bottom. You should make sure to avoid #7 and discard any plastic containers that are damaged. Cloudy plastic containers are ok. It is always better to use glass containers than plastic.

Here are some other things you can do to protect yourself from BPA exposure. Choose to purchase products from companies who have made a decision to use BPA-free packaging. If you use a water filtration pitcher, make sure its BPA free plastic. The reason you buy a water filtration pitcher is to eliminate the harmful substances that can be found in our water, so don’t add any to it after removing them. Minimize the use of canned drinks and foods. Use fresh fruits and vegetables instead of canned. My suggestion is to get rid of sodas altogether.

There are many more harmful effects from drinking sodas than the possibility of BPA. What I do is drink filtered water from my water pitcher that actually makes Dixon water taste good. Then if I want flavoring I add my own peppermint or lemon oil drop to the water and now I have very inexpensive flavored water. I also make tea if I want something besides water.

Of course, it’s always easier and less time consuming to just keep doing whatever you’re doing in the short term but in the long term taking the extra time now to protect yourself and your family from disease is always better. It’s clear to me that it’s not anyone’s responsibility but my own to watch over what goes into my body. I try to do my best. I encourage you to do the same.

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Page 14

Sauk Valley Sun

service directory

To See Your Business Advertised Here Please Call 815-888-4403.

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SP Heating & Cooling Serving the Sauk Valley Sales & Service Call Today 815-716-0189

Joe Valdez Excavating & Hauling, Concrete Installation & Removal, Tree Trimming.

Lee, Ogle & Whiteside CALL JOE 815-994-2468

APPLIANCE REPAIR Prescott’s 3610 East Lincolnway Sterling, IL 61081 Sales—Service– Delivery 815-626-2996

CARPENTRY

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COMPUTER REPAIR DC Computers Network, wireless, PC, Security 742 N Galena Ave. Dixon, IL 61021 815-288-4695

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Kennay’s Carpet Care Dixon 815-288-7336

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Downtown Sports 1202 S. Galena Ave. Dixon 815-284-2255 embroidery & screen printing.

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JT Sales Guns, Zombie Targets, Hornedy Ammo, T-Shirts 2058 Lowell Park Rd-Dixon 815-994-6128 jtsalesstore.com 10% off ammo

Extreme Hair & Day Spa Cassey Craft 1141 E. 4th St. Sterling 815-625-7114 Hair styles, color, highlights.

Women & Men Styles

Yardmans

Dixon Paint Co. Mitch Tucker 205 E. 1st St. Dixon 815-284-0730 Paints, stains, and free installation with purchase of 2 or more Comfortex Window Fasions Blinds.

FURNITURE REPAIR Days Furniture Repair Expert Repair & regluing on sofas, chairs, recliners & much more 1513 5th Ave Sterling 815-626-5136

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MASSAGE THERAPY The Wright Massage Carol Wright LMT 1411 E. 4th St. Sterling 815-441-2675 Specializing in deep tissue & myofacial work.

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SEWER & SEPTIC Joe’s Sewer & Septic: Repairs, Pumping, Installation, Electric Sewer Boring.

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a tidbit about our writers...

Where do you get your oil changed?

Sometimes I have Jason Mowery who owns ‘LiL Mow Customs’ change my oil and sometime I have Ken Nelson change my oil….depends on my mood and the timing, etc.

Both are excellent….Jason is at (815) 973-3960 and everyone knows where Ken Nelson is.

Brad Monson

Best Place for an Oil Change: Goodyear, 220 E. 3rd St., Sterling, is the best place for an oil change, simply for their service, accommodations and pricing. They often have daily specials that can lower the price of an oil change dramatically, making it one of the lowest prices around Sterling or Rock Falls.

Spencer Schein

I get my oil changed at Jiffy Lube in Dixon. My Mini Cooper requires a special tool to change the oil. The manager, Mike, spoke with the owner and purchased that tool so I can go anytime.

Great service! For all other Mini owners, Jiffy Lube will take care of you and your one of a kind ride.

Joshua Hauck

I get my oil changed at Dixon Ford on RT 2 because I live right next to the dealership and can drop my car off and walk back to my house and then walk back and pick it up when it’s done. It’s also the most inexpensive place I know of to get your oil changed.

Jill Horn

I get my oil changed at Ken Nelson because I drive a Toyota Camry. My car is my favorite color - blue, and it has a sun roof. When I saw it, I “just had to have it.” So, I take good care of my car.

Carol Chandler

We do a ton of shopping at Walmart, so it is most convenient for us to just get our oil changed while we are there.

It is fast, cheap and we only have to make one stop!

Ken & Katie Hauck

My husband takes his car to Ken Nelson. He says it’s nice to be able to pull right in, and get the oil changed.

Me? I get my oil changed wherever I happen to be when I need it changed.

Darlene Rego

I don’t get my oil changed locally, my husband takes it to the Subaru dealer where we purchased it. Why? He feels it’s less expensive and we get coupons.

Nancy Nesyto-Freske

Keeping your ride alive since 1999 801 North Galena Avenue Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 285-0255

Sterling Walmart Supercenter Dixon Walmart Supercenter 4115 East Lincolnway 1640 South Galena Avenue Sterling, IL 61081 Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 626-7200 (815) 288-7770

Sauk Valley Sun

Page 15

Make Extra Money Flexible Schedule Part Time/Full Time $10-$15/hr plus bonuses Questions: Dean Payne 815-757-0578 dcpayne61@gmail.com

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Meeting Ticket Bring to Meeting to Register for Give Away

Jeremy the Amazer

Jeremy Haak is a man who has a knack for handling cards. During an interview, the man cannot help himself, maybe its an impulsive compulsion, but he cannot seem to talk without shuffling a deck of playing cards between his hands.

“When I don’t have a deck of cards in my hands, I feel naked,” said the Rock Falls magician-stand-up comic, who would rather tell a self-depreciation joke about himself than ever tell a joke about someone in his audience. Describing himself as a shy guy growing up, he tells his audience of his dating prowess in school this way: “When girls were asked who they were going to prom with, one girl would say she was taking the captain of the basketball team, another girl would say she was taking the captain of the football team, but who would say they were taking the guy doing magic tricks in the hallway in between classes?”

Now entering his 25th year in magic, Haak, 36, known professionally as “Jeremy the Amazer,” wants to amaze you, and he is starting to get more notice. There are more than 1,000 tricks in his “bag,” and some of them are in the briefcase he takes with him to all shows. A native of Rock Falls, Haak says he has spent a lot of money on magic tricks and has so many he has to store them in a shed. When he does his act and pulls out a deck of playing cards, he said inevitably someone will shout out, “I have seen this one before,” and each time Haak either says or thinks to himself, “Yeah, there are 5 billion card tricks,” and the one he does is the one the “big talker” says he hasn’t seen before.

He can juggle, make hundreds of different balloon animals, and is a master of the Rings trick. Haak is such a master of the ring trick; he made his own instructional DVD on how you, too, can amaze your friends by either putting the rings together or taking them apart. The DVD was produced by www.magicmakersinc. com. “I have copies, but they are not made for the general public. It teaches the linking rings. The video preview is on my site’s video section found at www.amazer1. com,” Haak said. Growing up, Haak explains he didn’t know what he wanted to do, but he wanted to be some kind of entertainer. Making people laugh was something he liked, Haak said as he ate a plate of a ham and cheese omelet, hash browns, and a Pepsi, at The Spot Restaurant, in Sterling.

Magic was never in the mix, as Haak says he thought if someone was doing magic, it was a talent, an innate part of an individual that did not come with training, but was within them. It was only after seeing one of his friends do a couple card magic tricks that he realized he could also do the tricks, and a new passion was born. Acknowledging that magic is mainly run by two rules: misdirection and slight-of-hand, Haak does his full-deck of card trick, shuffling the deck as he tells a story and making it look like nothing is out of the ordinary. The rings he wears may amaze you: the one on his right hand is one with the four-Aces, and on the left is one with AMAZER on the face. Or the fact he is the only five-time winner of the Magician of the Year from the Quad Cities International Brotherhood of Magicians.

He also uses magic during his day job as a substitute teachers-aide, mainly at Unit 5 schools in Sterling. Haak also makes appearances at area bars and restaurants, and inevitably after one or two tricks, someone buys him a beer. He is a favorite at M & D’s in Sterling, where he sometimes is given a dozen wings before getting to shuffle a deck of cards. And if he has to pay, well, whoever is behind the cash register either gets a jolt or their eyes open real wide, as his wallet becomes engulfed in flames. “I don’t have a problem with people asking for money anymore. Sure, go take it yourself,” he says with a laugh.

The one thing Haak emphasizes in his act is keeping it clean. While some in the business feel swearing is a necessity to their act, Haak said he keeps it out and his audiences tend to appreciate it. Haak has three acts at his behest, one for children, one for children and adults and one for adults only, which has “spicy” language, but nothing too far out of the ordinary.

To book Haak for your private party, your spouse’s birthday party, your child’s birthday party, your corporate outing, or for a public event, go to his website, www.amazer1.com. Prices vary, and he can do a show for 30 minutes up to 90 minutes.

By Spencer Schein

Like What You See?

Look for our boxes outside of these locations.

We now have several locations Dixon: Sterling: Rock Falls: where you can pick County Market County Market Save-A-Lot up your free copy of Anytime Fitness Kroger Family Table the Sauk Valley Sun! Flynnie’s The Spot Friendship House Find one near you!

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Page 16

Sauk Valley Sun

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DIXON

COUPON MUST BE PRESENTED TO SERVICE ADVISOR AT TIME OF CHECK IN. DOES NOT INCLUDE TAX & DISPOSAL. EXPIRES 7-04-12

*Oil change includes up to 5 quarts of oil.

Diesel & synthetic extra. Does not include tax & disposal.

TRANSMISSION FLUID SERVICE

$159

95

DIXON

COUPON MUST BE PRESENTED TO SERVICE ADVISOR AT TIME OF CHECK IN. DOES NOT INCLUDE TAX & DISPOSAL. EXPIRES 7-04-12