Sterling-Rock Falls
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SterlingRock Falls, Illinois
Published by Sauk Valley Media
2017-2018
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Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
STERLING & ROCK FALLS | WHAT’S INSIDE Publisher: Don T. Bricker Advertising Director: Jennifer Heintzelman Advertising Sales: Jill Reyna Efren Diaz Editors: Lucas Pauley Rusty Schrader Chris Johnson
Greeting from the Mayors ........................................... Pages 5-11 Sterling history ......................................................... Pages 13-15 Rock Falls history ..................................................... Pages 17-19 Sterling today........................................................... Pages 20-21 Rock Falls today ...................................................... Pages 22-23 Sauk Valley Community College.................................................. Pages 24-25 Rock Falls education.................................................. Pages 26-27 Sterling education..................................................... Pages 28-29 Rock Falls Public Library ..................................................Page 30 Sterling Public Library ..................................................... Page 31 Sterling Health Care.................................................. Pages 32-35 Service Agencies...................................................... Pages 36-37 Rock Falls parks.............................................................. Page 38 Sterling parks................................................................. Page 39 Worship in Rock Falls...................................................... Page 40 Worship in Sterling......................................................... Page 41 Clubs ............................................................................Page 42 Numbers to note............................................................. Page 43
Get to Know Us ... Sterling & Rock Falls, Illinois, is a specialty publication of Sauk Valley Media, P.O. Box 498, Sterling, IL 61081, 815-625-3600. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Ad content is not the responsibility of Sauk Valley Media. The information in this guide is believed to be accurate; however, Sauk Valley Media cannot and does not guarantee its accuracy. Sauk Valley Media cannot and will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by advertisers listed in any portion of this magazine.
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Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
ROCK FALLS & STERLING | LETTERS FROM OUR MAYORS
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s mayor, and on behalf of the City Council, our municipal employees, residents and businesses, let me say welcome to Rock Falls. Rock Falls was founded in 1867 by A.P. Smith on a 65-acre tract of land on the south side of the Rock River. Its first town meeting was recorded on Jan. 28, 1868. Bill Wescott Today, we boast a popMayor ulation of 9,250 residents. of Rock Falls We are most proud that we are a community that has its own award-winning, reliable public electric utility, recognized water department and a $23 million wastewater treatment plant, completed in 2011. We are in northwestern Illinois, about 2 hours from Chicago, an hour and a half from Madison, Wisconsin, and 45 minutes from the Quad Cities. ROCK FALLS continued on 114 Sauk Valley Media
On behalf of the city of Sterling, I welcome you to our city – a city described as “Shining Brightly ... Leading the Way.” This city is leading its citizens into a 21st century of great infrastructure, great quality of life, and a time of outstanding partnership between the private and public sectors Skip Lee of our society. Mayor Sterling is a beautiof Sterling ful community. It is a peaceful, safe and nurturing environment with the amenities of a larger city but still retaining the “small-town feel.” Sterling is a distinct community of families, business leaders, and professionals who enjoy life to the fullest in a backdrop that combines history, small-town charm and a dedication to becoming even better. STERLING continued on 74 5
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STERLING
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We are in northwest Illinois between Chicago and the Quad Cities on the Interstate 88 corridor. We are a prosperous community because we work hard. We welcome the opportunities presented by challenges presented to us. We meet and overcome those challenges because of the hard work of many people involved in community organizations. Our location, the availability of reasonably priced land, and the “we can get it done” attitude of the people are integral parts of what makes this the place for entrepreneurs to locate. Our industrial park and the Greater Sterling Development Corp. helps those enterprises both large and small to be successful. We are proud to be the home of the international headquarters of Wahl Clipper Corp. Along with Wahl, manufacturers like Sterling Steel; Menk, USA; Franz Manufacturing; Astec Screens; HALO Branded Solutions; and Boston Leather show we have a thriving manufacturing environment. Our retail business community is expanding and successful. This success comes from the outstanding efforts of organizations such as Sterling Today and Sterling Main Street, which are made up of community-oriented individuals devoted to the development of the central business district as a vital commercial center. Those fine organizations and an active Chamber of Commerce allow us to do special projects such as our Farmers Market, which features the finest and freshest regionally produced products. We have 20 colorful murals dedicated to preserving our great history, making us a popular destination for regional tourists. When we finish working, we like to play, whether it be playing on one Sauk Valley Media
of our fine area golf courses, having a picnic in one of the community’s parks, fishing or boating on the Rock River, biking, hiking or camping in one of the many recreational areas in our region, or taking advantage of the many opportunities afforded by the Sterling Park District and the Sterling-Rock Falls YMCA. We are especially excited about the development of our riverfront area. Come to Sterling and watch an old industrial site become an exciting “green space” allowing water access for kayaking, fishing, and relaxing river watching. During the winter, one of the largest populations of American bald eagles live along the Rock River, and our new riverfront will allow prime viewing locations. A number of events also are available for you to enjoy, including one of the Midwest’s finest municipal bands, Main Street Music Fest, the fall Latin Fiesta, community theater productions, storytelling festival, or the many adult and youth arts experiences afforded through the Woodlawn Arts Academy. We host a number of 5K and 10K running events as well. Our revitalized downtown features the Free Movies in the Park series at the Grandon Civic Center band shell. Bring your family, lawn chairs, and favorite treats to watch wonderful family movies. While all of the above-mentioned attributes make this a lovely place to live and visit, there is one other component that makes Sterling outstanding – the people. You will find the people of Sterling have a friendly “cando” attitude. Welcoming visitors is nothing new – it’s a Sterling tradition! So again, whether you are new to Sterling, a longtime resident, or have just stopped by for a visit, I know you will find us “A Great Place To Call Home.” Mayor Charles “Skip” Lee City of Sterling 7
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Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
ROCK FALLS
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Two easy access points to our community are off Interstate 88, which runs on the south side of town, and where the scenic highways of state Route 40 and U.S. Route 30 meet, forming a crossroads in our community. Here in Rock Falls, we have a variety of things to do. Our Coloma Township Park District boasts 14 parks throughout the community and adjacent area. Baseball, softball, soccer, disc golf, fishing, many picnic shelters and ready access to other recreational outlets make it one of the top park districts in the state. Additional recreational opportunities can be found in the Hennepin Feeder Canal and the Rock River. The canal, dedicated in 1895, played an important role in the history of the United States, and its commerce and industry. In the 1930s, the Hennepin and its sister canal, the I&M, tied the Illinois, Des Plaines and Mississippi river systems into a transportation network connecting Lake Michigan to the Gulf of Mexico. The entire canal is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places; it is a 104-mile state park that spans five counties. Of particular note: The engineering innovations that were utilized in its construction later were incorporated into the design and construction of the Panama Canal. The Rock River Recreational Trail, which meanders down a gentle gradient to carry the water traveler and recreational enthusiast alike over 300 miles, from the headwaters in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin, to the mighty Mississippi River at the Quad Cities, was named part of the National Water System Trail System in March 2013. The significance of the designation cannot be overstated: The trail’s landscape and vistas, and the recreational, cultural and historic experience and ease of accessibility bring travelers, who connect to Sauk Valley Media
the Hennepin Feeder Canal by exiting at the designated portage site at the Arduini Boat Ramp here in Rock Falls. A true mark of a progressive community is the quality of the educational system and its educators. Rock Falls High School is fed by Rock Falls Elementary, East Coloma-Nelson and Montmorency school districts, and there also are several private schools that provide instruction for grades K-12. As our children graduate and advance to higher education opportunities, they can access seven colleges and universities in less than an hour’s commute. We also are pleased to have a diverse business community, which includes a wide variety of restaurants ranging from national and fast food chains to local favorites that offer pizza, pasta, homemade soups, deli products, baked goods, Chicken George and much more. Now that the demolition and environmental remediation of the old industrial properties along the riverfront is done, we have begun the transformation of the 17.5-acre canvas that will become the Riverfront Bike and Walk District. This area will produce future development opportunities, and combined with our uptown business community, will become the focal point of community events along the banks of the Rock River between its two dams. A large green space includes an amphitheater, restrooms, splash pads and a pedestrian/bicycle trail that conncets to the other trails through town and to the Hennepin Canal Parkway. All of these efforts will improve the quality of life for residents of the Rock Falls/Sterling area, and promote local and regional tourism. If you are traveling in northwest Illinois or looking for a destination for recreational activities, please stop in and take a look, there truly is something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming you to our community. Mayor William B. Wescott City of Rock Falls 11
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STERLING | HISTORY
City’s backgrounds goes with the flow
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he Rock River and Elkhorn and Sugar creeks combined with woodlands and prairie to make the Sterling area attractive to settlers in the early 1900s. The area was one of the last to be settled in Illinois, with the first settlers arriving in the region about 1832, after the Black Hawk War. Prior to their arrival, the territory was occupied by Fox and Sauk Indians. Hezekiah Brink was the first person to build a cabin in the area, in 1834. He soon was joined by other settlers, and 2 years after Brink built his cabin, he and his wife had a daughter, the first child born in the township.
Steamer pilot Capt. D.S. Harris delivered a load of supplies to the settlers via the Rock River in 1836, with the majority of merchandise for Brink. In return, Harris received a half interest in a community that was named Harrisburg in his honor. Around the same time, William Kirkpatrick laid claim to property near Harrisburg that would come to be known as the settlement of Chatham. Soon the residents of Harrisburg and Chatham became rivals, competing for possession of rented office space and a post office called the Rock River Rapids. FLOW continued on 154
Below, a 1940s view of the First Avenue Bridge going into Sterling.
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Katy Selmi
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Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
FLOW
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By 1838, though, the two settlements made peace and merged in hopes of becoming the county seat. They united under the new name of Sterling, named after Maj. James Sterling, who participated in the Black Hawk War. In 1842, believing they were victorious in becoming the county seat, the settlers began building a courthouse. The building was used for only a short time before the county seat was moved to Morrison, where it remains today. Religious groups and other organizations used the building in Sterling until it was razed for its bricks in 1881. One of the settlers’ other hopes was to use the Rock River as a navigational route. This plan, however, never worked out because the river had too many rapids. Instead, the settlers learned how to harness the river’s power to run saw and grist mills. Because navigating the Rock River was not an option, the state authorized construction of a canal in 1839. It was to run along the south side of the river and bypass the shallow waters. Financial problems, though, caused this project to be abandoned, as well. While Brink was somewhat successful in running a ferry service on the Rock River to attract travelers, other means for crossing the river were unsuccessful. The first bridge was built in 1856-57, but never was completed and eventually washed away before it could be used. Other bridges were built and destroyed by the elements, including a toll bridge in 1863 and one in 1904. It was predicted to last forever, but it fell to ruins in 1906. In 1854, Sterling Hydraulic Co. built a dam across the river to encourage and support other industry in the area. Not all factories, though, were dependent on water power. Industrial expansion increased dramatically after the Civil War. One of the first factories was the mitten factory owned by A.P. Smith, the founder of Rock Falls. Keystone Co., Northwestern Steel and Wire Co. and Eureka Manufacturing Co. Sauk Valley Media
all were begun between 1870 and 1879. The arrival of the first train in Sterling, in July 1855, caused great celebration and was a progressive step for the town. U.S. Sen. Stephen A. Douglas and Gov. Joel Matteson were among the 3,000 people in attendance. Sterling didn’t become a city until 1857, when it received a special charter from the General Assembly. An election of officers was held and Lorenzo Hapgood was chosen as first mayor. In 1869, the charter was revised and Sterling was governed under amended provisions until it was incorporated under the laws of the state. The first bank in Sterling opened in 1852, when Hapgood and Miles S. Henry went into business together. The firm dissolved in 1861, and other banks were started. The Sterling Gas Co. was organized in 1873 to provide gas for domestic purposes and street illumination. Eventually, the company changed its name and provided both gas and electricity after a period in which Sterling had many service companies. By July 1889, the installation of a system to light the city with electricity and the building of an electric railway progressed simultaneously. However, the project of electric transportation was complicated and dormant for 10 years. One of the few electric lines to be successful was the Sterling, Dixon and Eastern Electric Railway. The SD & EER ran a trolley service between Sterling and Dixon from 1904 to 1925. Around 1930, some of the streetcars were remodeled into tourist cabins and moved to Morrison. Schools developed slowly in Sterling, with the first constructed in 1856. The early schools were frame structures, but later ones were constructed of brick. Lincoln School originally was called First Ward School, and Central School was called Sterling School. In 1877, Sterling Business College was started by Harry Aument. He claimed to have the first business college in the world to include shorthand in its curriculum. The Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society was founded in 1959 by individuals interested in preserving the historical heritage of both cities. 15
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ROCK FALLS | HISTORY
Nestled among the cornfields of the Land of Lincoln, Rock Falls has long had an appreciation for one of America’s biggest cash crops. This postcard show scenes from the annual Corn Carnivals that Rock Falls once held. Seen here, the city streets were filled with revelers in 1911 and 1913.
Rise after Rapids City
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he city of Rock Falls got its start in 1837, when Isaac Merrill settled along the southern bank of the Rock River in the northern section of Coloma Township. He soon was joined by several other settlers and their families, including Edward Atkins, Daniel Brooks and Noah Merrill. Isaac Merrill’s son, Nelson, is believed to be the first child born in the settlement, in November 1838. Rock Falls originally was called Rapids City after A.B. Wheeler, Isaac Merrill, Atkins and Brooks laid out a mile-square area on the riverbank. Atkins must have had high hopes for growth and future residents – he built a large framed house for use as a hotel. During that time, the state let out Sauk Valley Media
a contract to build a canal at Rapids City, but when the state encountered financial difficulties, the project was suspended. Because of the financial hardship sweeping the United States, the future Rock Falls lay nearly dormant for 20 years. There were no shops or stores in operation in the township, and in 1857, the plat of Rapids City was vacated. A year later, the county map showed only 31 residents. Schooling was not offered until 1845. The first teacher, Anastasia Sturtevant, held classes in an old store until a granary was bought and remodeled. A brick building later was built, followed by Merrill School in 1888. RISE continued on 184 17
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Businessman and New York native Augustus P. Smith is credited with salvaging the community in 1867. Smith moved across the river from Sterling, bought 47 acres and opened a mitten factory. Then he laid out a town and called it Rock Falls. Smith also bought the Sterling Hydraulic Co.’s water plant, which had built a dam in 1854. Smith used the dam’s water power to run his factory. He spent $12,000 to improve his water supply, which promoted the use of waterpower and motivated others to use the power, as well. The town sprang up around the factory, and Smith was able to hire about 100 workers. Rock Falls was incorporated in January 1869, and a town government was formed. The first ordinance was a temperance act forbidding the sale
of malt liquors in less than 1-gallon quantities. At the same meeting, the town seal was ordered. It carried the motto, “Fundo in Tempero,” which means “I build in good time.” Eventually, Rock Falls gained city status. At that time, campaigns were waged both for and against annexing with Sterling. In the end, the voters nixed the idea and Rock Falls became its own town. A period of rapid growth followed the arrival of the railroad in Rock Falls. The new form of transportation boosted industry, and numerous factories were established and prospered. George S. Tracy and Thomas A. Galt bought water rights and land in Rock Falls from Smith after their Sterling factory was destroyed in 1867. Keystone Manufacturing Co. was organized between 1870 and 1877, built 10 more buildings, and concentrated on making agricultural machinery.
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Others who played a role in the development of Rock Falls were brothers John H. and Edwin F. Lawrence, prosperous manufacturers who started with a patent for two barn-door hangers. Eureka Manufacturing organized in 1871. Early products were school and office furniture. Production later was changed to carriages and allied products and vehicles of all types including hearses and ambulances. During World War II, it switched to war production, buses, ambulances and turret baskets for tanks. It operated until 1965. The Sterling Manufacturing Co. began making stair rails, newel posts, church seats and butter tubs, among other things, as early as 1855. By 1877, it was making 2,500 butter tubs a week. Many other manufacturing companies have occupied the south shore of the Rock River over the years.
As early as 1877, Rock Falls had one hose company protecting the town. In 1908, the first fire wagon and team was bought, and the horses were named Thome and Grady, in honor of the mayor and alderman. The department became motorized in 1921. Rock Falls had several newspapers in the late 1800s, many of which lasted only a couple of years. The earliest one was Rock Falls Progress, which ran its presses by water power. It was Republican in its beliefs and was published for about 7 years. The Rock Falls Methodist Church is the oldest in the township. It was organized by the Rev. J.H. Alling in 1869. Many service clubs and special interest groups also were organized more than 100 years ago. The Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society was chartered in 1959, and in 1967, Rock Falls celebrated its centennial.
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STERLING | TODAY
Right balance for growth
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terling is a city built on the strength of its residents. That strength led to the development of industry, with Sterling’s first factories being built in the 1850s. Some were built along the banks of the Rock River, so the water could help power them. Over time, more factories were built, many that manufactured hardware. So much hardware was produced in Sterling, in fact, that the city was dubbed the Hardware Capital of the World at one point. In recent years, though, the city has matured and diversified, giving rise to a balance of industry, commerce and retail business. To help spur new growth, the city
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More info Go to ci.sterling.il.us or find the city on Facebook for more information on Sterling. created the Greater Sterling Development Corp., which actively recruits new business to the area. In turn, those new businesses help attract more people to Sterling and spur the construction of new housing. Sterling’s leaders also are concerned about improving the quality of life for area residents. They realize it’s important to offer top-quality health care, schools and recreational opportunities, as well as jobs, to keep residents happy.
Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
The staff at Sterling’s city-owned hospital, CGH Medical Center, is committed to attracting and retaining top-notch doctors. Another priority in Sterling is maintaining excellent schools. Six schools and a career center are included in the Community Unit 5 school system, and Sterling has three private schools. Upon graduation, students have the opportunity to advance their education at Sauk Valley Community College, just a few miles east of town on state Route 2. Sterling Park District maintains a number of parks, an indoor fitness facility and an 18-hole golf course. The city also worked with Rock Falls to build a footbridge over the Rock River, allowing residents to hike and bike along the Hennepin Feeder Canal in Rock Falls. The river offers great opportunities each summer for those who enjoy boating, waterskiing and fishing.
For those who enjoy the arts, there’s the Woodlawn Arts Academy, a nonprofit created to provide educational opportunities for children and adults in all areas of the arts. Classes vary from visual arts to music and the literary arts to the performing arts. Of course, residents also can take advantage of the entertainment and recreational opportunities available in many of Illinois’ biggest cities, as Sterling is just a 1- or 2-hour drive from Chicago, Rockford, the Quad Cities and Peoria. The city’s easy access to these other major economic centers also makes it more convenient to do business there, which is why Sterling has partnered with Dixon and Rock Falls, and Lee and Whiteside counties to develop the I-88 West Corridor. Together, they’re bringing new business to the Sauk Valley, making it even more attractive to live here.
COME WORSHIP WITH US Our church family is united in our commitment to Jesus Christ. We would be honored to have you join us.
311 2nd Ave., Sterling 815-625-5112
Discover the Joy of Practical Bible Teaching
Sunday School 9:00am Worship Service 10:00am Tuesday Bible Study 6:00pm A First Aid and CPR trained person with one of our members provides child care in our nursery for children age 4 and under.
Join us Tuesday* evenings for Intercessory Prayer at 6:00 pm followed by Bible Study at 7:00
*Subject to change for holidays & other events Nursery not available on Tuesdays
Pastor Jeff & Mary Coester
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ROCK FALLS | TODAY
Leaders work together
P
eople helping people is what Rock Falls is all about. Since its founding in 1839, Rock Falls residents have pitched in and worked together to make things happen. They built the city’s first shops, homes and industries. They built the first schools and churches. They built a library, parks and more businesses. Today, the city has 9,250 residents who continue to work together to build what they need, whether it be a walking bridge across the Rock River or a new riverfront development project. City leaders also work together to bring in new business and strengthen existing ones. Rock Falls is focused on developing its riverfront, cleaning up empty
City turns 150 Rock Falls is celebrating its sesquicentennial in 2017. Events are planned throughout the year. Go to facebook.com/RockFalls150th or visitrockfalls.com for events and more information. factories and redeveloping them for commercial use. The city also hopes to see new development along state Route 40 and Interstate 88. Rock Falls has partnered with the neighboring towns of Dixon and Sterling, as well as economic leaders from Lee and Whiteside counties, to attract industry to the I-88 West Corridor.
• 97% of Newman Graduates move on to Higher Education ACT DATA 2016: • 77% of Newman Students are college ready in English & Composition (64% Statewide) • Newman is a member of the TRAC for activities & sports
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1101 W. 23rd St. | Sterling, Illinois 61081 (815) 625-0500 www.newmancchs.org Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
Downtown Rock Falls is fortunate to have retailers, restaurants and service providers in nearly every building. A furniture store serves as an anchor to other businesses. Tax increment financing districts also are important to developing Rock Falls. The new Holiday Inn Express & Suites, which opened in May 2016, in the RB&W District, is one product of the city’s Riverfront TIF. The city is nearly finished with the second phase of the RB&W District. The green space area will eventually include an entertainment venue, water feature, parks, a trail, and restrooms. Other retailers and hospitalMichael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com ity service providers can be A worker digs in to the Rock Falls riverfront found along the city’s other in October 2016. main thoroughfares.
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ROCK FALLS & STERLING | SAUK VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Committed to regional economy
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auk Valley Community College has been on a mission to provide quality education to its diverse student body since its doors opened in 1965. The fully accredited college, which sits on a 144-acre campus at 173 state Route 2, between Dixon and Sterling, enrolls more than 3,200 full- and part-time students a year from 16 in-district high schools, 18 states and three foreign countries, in courses that include GED and ESL classes, community enrichment courses, business training and dual credit courses for high-schoolers. Sauk offers 2-year transfer associ-
ate degrees in art or science in more than 40 areas; 22 career-technical degrees, 24 associate degrees and a associate in engineering science degree, along with 50 career-technical certificates. Men’s and women’s sports, cultural activities and events, and more than 20 student clubs and organizations, including Phi Theta Kappa (the honor society for 2-year colleges), student government, Association of Latin American Students, Magic Club, Campus Crusade for Christ and Math Club, contribute to the vibrant campus life. Students also have access to a full fitness center and weight room.
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More online Go to svcc.edu or call 815835-6273 for class schedules or more information about Sauk Valley Community College. Sauk also has an active ABC AmeriCorps program, in which students earn a stipend while working with children, youth and families as well as community-based agencies, small towns and municipalities, learning life skills while contributing to the health of area communities. As part of its commitment to the region’s economic development, in early 2016 Sauk launched its Small Business Development Center, and the Sauk Valley Community College Community Leadership Program. The center is a resource for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, in collaboration with the
Dixon, Sterling and Rock Falls chambers of commerce, city and county officials, and local banks. The leadership course is a 10-month skills-building program in conjunction with area manufacturers, designed to pique students’ interest in the trades at an earlier age, and bridge the skills gap that is impeding the companies’ operational efficiencies. Sessions are scheduled at different sites to accommodate students throughout the area. Students also have access to the Sauk YMCA. Membership is $19 a month for students and $40.25 a month for faculty and staff.
Welcome to Grace Church There’s an energy in this place. People are full of love and joy, on fire with the Holy Spirit. This is a place where we embrace the questions that motivate us to study God’s creation. Walk through these doors, and you will find friends - a people and a place of Grace! Sunday Worship 9:00 a.m. Rev. Peg Williams, Rector
Spoken Eucharist Wednesdays at noon
Bible Study Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. through the school year
707 1st Ave., Sterling • 815-625-0442 www.episcopalgrace.org Sauk Valley Media
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ROCK FALLS | EDUCATION
R
ock Falls has five public schools, and one parochial school:
East Coloma-Nelson Consolidated Elementary District 20
East Coloma-Nelson School 1602 Dixon Road 815-625-4400 ecoloma.net East Coloma-Nelson School serves grades K-8. It has about 280 students, with about 15 in each class. K-5 students stay in self-contained classrooms, while 6-8 students rotate classes in preparation for high school.
District 13 District 13 has a preschool, two grade schools, Merrill and Dillon, and
Michael Krabbenhoeft/ mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com
Hayden and his mother, Heather Hulstrom, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in November 2016 during the kids holiday party at Merrill School. Rock Falls Middle School. Go to www.rfsd13.org or call 815-626-2604 for more information.
How We Work For You! Solar Panels:
Total KWH’s produced since 2012 - 9,070,000 Enough energy to operate a TV for 26,283 days The energy to power 698.17 computers for one year
Hydro Plant:
Has produced the following KWH’s over the years: 2014 - 8,710,600 | 2015 - 10,077,600 | 2016 - 7,718,600 Average household uses 600 KWH’s/month The City of Rock Falls uses approximately 6,485,293 KWH’s/month.
Rock Falls Electric Utilities
Est. 1895 26
Nationally recognized Municipal Electric Agency One of only Three Communities in Illinois Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
Dillon School 1901 Eighth Ave. 815-625-3356 Dillon serves grades pre-K-2. It has about 320 students, with about 22 in each class. Merrill School 600 Fourth Ave. 815-625-4634 Merrill serves grades 3-5. It has about 330 students, with about 26 in each class. Rock Falls Middle School 1701 12th Ave. 815-626-2626 Rock Falls Middle School serves grades 6-8. It has around 300 students, with about 20 in each class. Riverdale Preschool 3505 Prophet Road 815-625-5280 Riverdale School has about 160 students, with about 20 in each class.
District 145 Montmorency School 9415 Hoover Road; 815-625-6616 shawurl.com/33e2 Montmorency serves grades K-8. It has about 350 students; the average class size is 18.
Rock Falls Township High School District 301
101 12th Ave.; 815-625-3886 www.rfhs301.org Rock Falls High School has about 670 students in grades 9-12. The average class size is 15.
Parochial schools St. Andrew Catholic Grade School 701 11th Ave. 815-625-1456 standrewgradeschool.com St. Andrew serves pre-K-8 grades. It has about 160 students, with about 16 in each class.
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STERLING | EDUCATION
E
ducational needs in Sterling are met through one public school system and three private schools:
District 5
Community Unit School District 5 encompasses four grade schools, a middle school, and a high school. All four public elementary schools are part of an attendance center format. Go to sterlingpublicschools.org or call 815-626-5050 for more information.
Franklin Elementary School 1510 E. 25th St.; 815-625-5755 Franklin is one of two K-2 schools. It has about 450 students, with about 23 in each class. Jefferson Elementary School 806 E. LeFevre Road; 815-625-6402 Jefferson is the other K-2 school. It has about 45o students, with about 24 in each class.
Sterling High School 1608 Fourth Ave.; 815-625-6800 Sterling High School has about 1,000 students in grades 9-12 with an average class size of 16 students.
Lincoln Elementary 1501 E. Sixth St.; 815-625-1449 Lincoln is one of two 3-5 schools. It has about 360 students, with about 26 in each class.
Challand Middle School 1700 Sixth Ave.; 815-626-3300 Challand Middle School has about 760 students in grades 6-8 with an average class size of 23 students.
Washington Elementary 815 W. LeFevre Road; 815-625-2372 Washington is the other 3-5 school. It has about 375 students, about 25 in each class.
Sundays, 10 am 1403 Hemlock Avenue • Dixon, IL | 815-284-8680 | www.glcdixon.org www.facebook.com/glcdixon.org
SM-ST19951-0623
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Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
Parochial schools Newman Central Catholic High School 1101 W. 23rd St. 815-625-0500 newmancchs.org Newman Central Catholic High School has about 250 students in grades 9-12. The average class size is 20. Newman serves as the high school for parishes in Lee, Bureau, Ogle and Whiteside counties. St. Mary’s School 6 W. Sixth St. 815-625-2253 smsterling.webs.com St. Mary’s serves grades pre-K-8. It has about 180 students, with about 18 in each class. Christ Lutheran School 2000 18th Ave. 815-625-3800 www.christlutheranschool.com
Christ Lutheran serves grades preK-8. It has about 150 students, with about 15 in each class.
Vocational schools Whiteside Area Career Center 1608 Fifth Ave. 815-626-5810 wacc.cc Whiteside Area Career Center was the first of only 23 career and technical education centers in Illinois. It serves about 600 students, 16 member school districts and four parochial schools in northwestern Illinois. The school provides technical training in four cluster areas: business and related technology, consumer services, industrial technology and transportation services. Specialized career and technical skills are taught in a variety of occupations. Work-based learning programs also are offered.
We have the Place!
Rustic atmosphere with seating for up to 300 guests Handicapped accessible & climate controlled Ornate winding staircase Weddings, receptions, birthday parties, family reunions, graduations, Christmas parties or any gathering for family and friends.
815-626-2988 13030 Galt Road, Sterling, IL 61081 Sauk Valley Media
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I
ROCK FALLS | LIBRARY
n the mid-1930s, Rock Falls first public library was housed in the old Rock Falls National Bank building. It moved several times before taking up residence at its current location in 2001. In addition to a sizable book collection for all ages, the library subscribes to several newspapers and about 100 magazines. It also loans out audiotapes and CDs, DVDs, and music CDs. Patrons can access the Internet from any of several computers, and computers also are available for children.
For more information Find the library, 1007 Seventh Ave., on Facebook, call 815-626-3958 or go to rockfallslibrary.com. There are special reading programs for children and adults, and the library offers a book club, and a craft clubs and similar activities. Library cards are free for Coloma Township residents or those who pay taxes on property within Coloma Township. Patrons outside of Coloma Township pay $52 a year per family. Each summer, the library organizes crafts and other programs
for children, and offers short-term, discounted library cards for children who live outside the township. Library cards can be used at other Illinois public libraries. Rock Falls joined its collection with Dixon and Sterling libraries, and with Sterling Public Schools, and Newman Central Catholic, Rock Falls and Dixon high schools, to form the Rock River Library Consortium.
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BUSY PROPERTIES, LLC MINI STORAGE FACILITIES • Sterling • Emerson • Lanark 815-626-1552 | www.busyproperties.com 30
Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
STERLING | LIBRARY Sterling Public Library, established in 1878, has grown and progressed along with the city. To keep up with this growth, the library has had several homes within the community as its collection of reading materials and number of patrons has increased. The current building was opened in November 1905, thanks to a donation by Andrew Carnegie. It was expanded in 1985, and again in 1995. Three main departments serve patrons of all ages. The library offers items in Span-
More info Find the library, 102 W. Third St., on Facebook, call 815-626-3958 or go to rockfallslibrary.com. ish, and has extensive local history and genealogy resources. The library houses about 57,000 items in many formats: print, audio, DVD, and electronic books. Newspapers, periodicals, public computers with Internet access, Wi-Fi, and microfilm reels of local newspapers are also available. Library cards are available at no charge to residents within city limits.
Cards for residents outside city limits can be obtained $60. Library cards can be used at other Illinois public libraries. Sterling has joined its collection with Dixon and Rock Falls public libraries, and with Sterling Public Schools, St. Mary’s School in Sterling, and Newman Central Catholic, Rock Falls and Dixon high schools, to form the Rock River Library Consortium.
Hand Cu Cut Chicken Strips Chicken Chi k Wi Wings | Fried Chicken Ribs | All You Can Eat Walleye Onion Rings Homemade Desserts dine in | carry out | delivery Sauk Valley Media
Brenda Plock, Owner 31
STERLING | HEALTH CARE
Patients get best of care at CGH Medical Center
C
GH Medical Center has been caring for patients since 1909, and today has 16 area locations and clinics. The hospital, which merged with the Sterling Rock Falls Clinic, now the CGH Main Clinic, in December 2010, has facilities in Sterling, Rock Falls, Dixon, Milledgeville, Morrison, Mount Carroll, Polo, Prophetstown, Tampico and Walnut. Its service area encompasses 105,000 people, and it employs more than 1,400, with a medical staff of 140 physicians specializing in 35 medical areas.
A major expansion was completed in 2008 that produced a new suite of surgical rooms, a new Obstetrics Department and Birthing Center, a new Critical Care Unit, and a new Digestive Health Center. In spring 2015, CGH opened a second Cardiac Cath Lab, and a new state-of-the-art Emergency Department that features 26 private treatment rooms, six easy care areas, two new trauma rooms, secured access, and streamlined registration. PATIENTS continued on 344
MUTUAL INSURANCE... It’s All About
Community At this mutual you can trust that we have the knowledge to meet your needs and the commitment to help you make the decisions that best protect you and the life you hold dear.
Mutual Insurance Company Hugh F. Miller Insurance Rock Falls, IL 61071 815-626-1300 Scholl Insurance Agency
32
Hawkins-Cassens Insurance Agency Sterling
815-625-7474 First Class Insurance Agency
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Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com
CGH Medical Center’s pediatrics department got a wall-to-wall makeover this year, and folks stopped by to check out the upgraded home for kids care during on open house in early March. The mural’s artist, Mackenzie Hopping, shown here, said her work was influenced by several different artists as well as the therapeutic value of artwork.
Family ~ Senior ~ Sports ~ Wedding
Share Life’s Moments 3917 E Lincolnway, Ste B | Sterling, IL 815.716.3282 | www.photosbyonsite.com
Sauk Valley Media
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PATIENTS
CONTINUED FROM 32 t
Inpatient services include a 36-bed medical unit, a 28-bed surgical unit, 10 birthing center suites, six pediatric beds, and 18 CCU/ICU/Biotelemetry beds. Outpatient services include the state-of-the-art Cath Lab and an accredited laboratory. Diagnostic imaging services include a 64-ring CT scanner, nuclear medicine with SPECT scanning, ultrasound, dedicated mammography including digital mammography and an in-house, high field MRI. Other departments and services include a neurology laboratory, a GI laboratory and nutritional support, pain management, pharmacy, and respiratory therapy. In addition, CGH offers an ambulatory surgical center, a digestive
health center, physical and occupational therapy, a diabetic education department, a wound care center, and a 24-hour trauma ready emergency department. CGH also operates its own day care center adjacent to the campus. CGH and its 16 satellite facilities provide tens of millions in free and discounted care yearly, and also gives back to the community through community sponsorships; donations and support; community partnerships; and supplementation of Community Services and Foundation programs, which provide for the health and wellness of community members. Since 2013, CGH has received high grades for patient safety from the Leapfrog Group, including the A Safety Rating this spring. The Leapfrog Group collects and reports oneof-a-kind data to empower patients to choose the right hospital.
GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod Rev. Daniel M. Behmlander, Pastor
Sunday Morning Worship 9:00 a.m. Sunday School & Adult Bible Class 10:15 a.m. Thursday Evening Worship 7:00 p.m.
www.gslcrf.org 34
SM-ST19920-0616
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1902 North Locust St. Sterling, IL
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Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
For more information CGH Medical Center, 100 E. LeFevre Road in Sterling, has 16 locations throughout the Sauk Valley. Go to cghmc.com for a complete list and their specialties. Call 815-625-0400 for more information. In May 2016, CGH opened its Spirit of the Heart art gallery, a joint project of its Marketing Department and the CGH Auxiliary. It’s intended not only to be a venue for local artists, but also a healing force for patients, families, and even hospital staff, to help promote the idea of art’s positive impact on healing and health. In March, CGH Medical Center’s unveiled its new pediatrics department, which got a wall-to-wall makeover. The department, which hasn’t been renovated since the 1980s, boasts new nurses stations, upgraded lighting, an enhanced security system, and a mural that
offers a splash of color, featuring fish, birds and other attention-grabbers that kids can gander at when they visit the hospital. In addition to the mural, artwork from students at Woodlawn Arts Academy will be displayed in the department, with different pieces featured periodically. “CGH Medical Center is honored to provide ... the very best care,” Dr. Paul Steinke, the medical center’s president and CEO, said in a statement. “We are proud of these achievements and believe it is a direct result of our physicians’, nurses’ and staffs’ dedication to outstanding care.”
SACRED HEART CHURCH 2224 Avenue J, Sterling 815-625-1134 www.sacredheartparish.net
Featuring Fine Mexican Food and American Favorites Serving Lunch & Dinner: Mon. - Thurs. - 11-9 Fri. - 11-10 Sat. - 10-10 Bar Hours: Mon.- Sat. - 8am-1am
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For Carryout call 815-625-9720 or 815-625-7969
www.kellysinc.com Sauk Valley Media
Office Hours: 9am-3pm Monday through Friday Weekend Mass Schedule: Saturday 8:30am & 5:30pm Sunday 8:30am & 10am (May-Labor Day) 8:30am-11am (After Labor Day-April) Confession Times: Saturday 9:00am & 4:30pm, Monday & Tuesday 7:30am SM-ST19961-0623
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ROCK FALLS & STERLING | SERVICE AGENCIES Rock Falls and Sterling are home to many caring organizations: Abiding Word Christian Center Food Pantry, 806 E. Lynn Blvd., Sterling; 815626-1827; abidingwordchurch.org Alzheimer’s Association, Rock River Branch, 93 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon; 815285-1100; alz.org/illinoiscentral/in_my_ community_59571.asp American Cancer Society, 4312 E. State St., Rockford; 815-229-1287; cancer.org American Red Cross, Lincoln Land Chapter, 112 W. Second St., Rock Falls; 815-625-0382; redcross.org or Facebook Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sauk Valley, 300 First Ave., Suite 220, Rock Falls; 815-626-2227; bbbsmv.org or Facebook Building Bridges, 2214 E. Fourth St., Sterling; 815-625-5306 Catholic Charities, 801 W. 11th St., Sterling; 815-625-6945; catholiccharities. rockforddiocese.org Department of Human Services, 2605 Woodlawn Road, Suite 4, Sterling; 815632-4045; dhs.state.il.us First Church of the Nazarene “Helping Hands,” 411 13th Ave., Sterling; 815-6251146; thesterlingchurch.org/ministries/ helping-hands or Facebook F.I.S.H. Food Pantry, 902 E. Fifth St., Sterling; 815-626-1734 Happy Tails Humane Society, 1408 McNeil Road, Rock Falls; 815-626-2994; happytailsanimalshelter.org or Facebook Home of Hope Cancer Wellness Center, 1637 Plock Road, Dixon; 815-2884673; homeofhopeonline.org or Facebook Hospice of the Rock River Valley, 2600 N. Locust St., Sterling; 815-625-3858; hospicerockriver.org or Facebook Lutheran Social Services, 1901 First Ave., Sterling; 815-626-7333; lssi.org March of Dimes; 815-397-0097; marchofdimes.com Marine Corps League, Sauk Valley Detachment 913; Rock Falls American Legion, 712 Fourth Ave., Rock Falls; 815441-2243; “Sauk Valley Marines #913” on Facebook Northwest Illinois Workforce Investment Board; 815-625-9648; illinoisworknet.com/ WIOA/Pages/IWIBGuide.aspx 36
Prairie State Legal Services; 309-7941328; pslegal.org Project VITAL; Sauk Valley Community College, 173 state Route 2, Dixon; 815835-6363; svcc.edu/community/adult-education/vital Rock Falls Chamber of Commerce, 601 W. 10th St., Rock Falls; 815-6254500; rockfallschamber.com Salvation Army, 409 Ave. F, Sterling; 815625-1622; salvationarmy.org or Facebook Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, 211 Locust St., Sterling; 815-625-2400; saukvalleyareachamber.com or Facebook Sauk Valley Food Bank, 1801 Plant Road, Sterling; 815-625-4556 Self Help Enterprises, 2300 W. LeFevre Road, Sterling; 815-626-3115 Sinnissippi Centers, 2611 Woodlawn Road, Sterling; 815-625-0013 or 800-242-7642 (24hour emergency hotline); sinnissippi.com Society of St. Vincent De Paul Society, 7 W. Sixth St., Sterling; 815-625-0311; svdpsaukvalley.org
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Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
Tri County Opportunities Council 405 Emmons Ave., Rock Falls; 815-625-7830; tcochelps.com or Facebook Trinity United Methodist Church Food Pantry, 205 E. 10th St., Sterling; 815626-7777 Twin Cities PADS Homeless Shelter, 111 E. 29th St., Sterling; 815-6262210; twincitiespads.org or Facebook United Way of Whiteside County, 502 First Ave., Sterling; 815-625-7973; unitedwayofwhitesidecounty.org or Facebook Whiteside County Senior Center, 1207 W. Ninth St., Sterling; 815622-9230; whitesidecsc. org or Facebook White Oaks Womens Center, 2323 E. Lincol-
SVM file photo
Members of the New Life Lutheran Church in Sterling watch as a combine harvests corn from the 22 acres the church farms during Harvest Fest in October 2016. The church donated proceeds from its harvest to the Sauk Valley Food Bank and Food Resource Network. nway, Sterling; 815-4080793; whiteoakwomenscenter.com or Facebook YWCA of the Sauk
Valley, 412 First Ave., Sterling; 815-625-0333; ywca.org/saukvalley or Facebook
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ROCK FALLS | PARKS
Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com
Preschoolers from the Little Red Schoolhouse watch in March as trout are funneled into the pond at Centennial Park. Bennett Park; West Bennett Drive; playground and picnic area Bowman Family Park; downtown riverfront; fishing, pavilions and scenic area Centennial Park; Avenue D and East 11th Street; ball diamonds, tennis courts, playground, canoeing and paddleboating, fishing, ice skating, monument, pavilions, picnic area, and scenic area Dillon Park West; 19th Street and 11th Avenue; ball diamonds, playground, and picnic area Joshua Park; U.S. Route 30 and Riverdale Road; ball diamond, basketball court, disc golf course, playground, picnic shelter, and restrooms Kiwanis Park; West 12th 38
Street and Seventh Avenue; ball diamonds, playground, pavilions, and picnic area Liberty Bell Monument Park; junction of Route 88 and Second Avenue; replica of the Liberty Bell Logan Memorial Park; East U.S. Route 30; playground, picnic area, and scenic area Lower Dam Park; downtown riverfront; boat ramp and fishing Nims Park; East Third Street and Avenue E; ball diamonds, basketball court, disc golf course, playground, pavilions, and picnic area Optimist Park; 14th Avenue and Prophet Road; ball diamonds, playground, and picnic area RB&W District; East Second Street; green space
area includes entertainment venue, water feature, parks, a trail, and restrooms Rotary Park; East Minkle Road; ball diamonds, playground, pavilions, and picnic area Seward-Riverside Park; East Second Street and Avenue C; fishing, playground, picnic area, and scenic area A.V. Sieglinger Park; Ninth Avenue and 22nd Street; ball diamonds, playground, pavilions, and picnic area Veterans Memorial Park; West Fifth Street and Galt Avenue; bandshell and monument Wallingford Park; East Eighth Street and Avenue C; ball diamonds, basketball courts, playground, pavilions, and picnic area
Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
STERLING | PARKS Douglas Park, 2100 Chestnut Ave.; basketball court, playground equipment, and open play area. Duis Recreation Center, 211 E. St. Mary’s Road; fitness center and swimming pool. Eberley Park, 2699 Douglas Drive; 1.5-mile walking course Emerald Hill Golf Course, 16802 Prairieville Road; golf course and Emerald Hill Pavilion (weddings and parties) Gartner Park, 2121 W. LeFevre Road; ball diamond Harry Kidd Field, 1219 W. Seventh St.; football field Hoover Park, 3807 Woodlawn Road; trail system, playground equipment, picnic and open play areas, and drinking water Kilgour Park, 400 W. 15th St.; basketball court, tennis courts, Imagination Station playground, picnic and open play areas, local historic site and drinking water Lawrence Park, Avenue G Island; boat launch, fishing, horseshoe courts, picnic area with grills, playground equipment, open play areas and shelters Martin’s Landing and Sinnissippi Dam Walkway, 10th Avenue and Second Street (behind the Dillon Home); benches, gazebo shelter, fishing and trail connection to Hennepin Canal Parkway Trail Oppold Marina, 532 Stouffer Road; boat launch, boat slip rental, fishing, harbor house, ice skating (outdoor), playground Sauk Valley Media
Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com
Karina Bluestein and Sawyer Johnson climb aboard the playground equipment at Sinnissippi Park in early June. equipment, picnic open play areas, shelters and restrooms Propheter Park, 506 E. Sixth St.; basketball courts, playground equipment and open play areas Red Field Park, 14th Avenue and Second Street (behind the Dillon Home); benches, playground equipment, open play areas and access to trail system Scheid Park, 1102 Woodburn Ave.; basketball courts, soccer fields, playground equipment, open play areas, shelter and restrooms Sinnissippi Park, Sinnissippi Road; ball diamonds (unlighted), disc golf course, cross-country skiing and sledding, fishing trail access, playground equipment, picnic and open play areas, national historic site, shelters and restrooms Skate Park, behind the Duis Recreation Center and the Frasor Center; grinding rails and boxes, 5-foot
quarter pipe, 5-foot half pipe, 5-foot spine, 5-foot bank ramp radius with kicker, jump box combo and kinked quarter pipe Thomas Park, 2301 12th Ave.; basketball courts, tennis courts, ice skating (outdoor), playground equipment, picnic, open play areas and shelter Westwood Sports Center, 1900 W. LeFevre Road (just east of McCue Road); 6-lane 200 meter indoor track, 60-yard AstroTurf Puregrass football/soccer field, four indoor tennis courts, four indoor pickleball courts, four indoor racquetball/ wallyball courts, two indoor batting cages, wrestling room, eight indoor basketball/volleyball courts, aerobics room with woodsprung floor, more than 12,000-squarefeet fitness center with free weights, pin- and plate-loaded weights and cardio theatre 39
ROCK FALLS | PLACES OF WORSHIP Assembly of God Rock River Christian Center Assembly of God, 1800 Prophetstown Road; 815-6254371; rrccag.org or Facebook
Baptist Berean Baptist Church, 1119 10th Ave.; 815-6257179; bbcrf.com Como Baptist Church, 25059 Como Road; 815625-8492 New Hope Baptist Church, 902 W. 12th St.; 815-625-6696; Facebook Liberty Baptist Church, 2002 Ninth Ave.; 815-6254101; experience-liberty.com Maranatha Baptist Church, 2103 Walter St.; 815-625-8978
Catholic St. Andrew Catholic Church, 708 10th Ave.; 815625-4508; standrewrockfalls.org
Congregational
815-625-3575; immanuelrockfalls.org
Disciples of Christ
Rock Falls United Methodist Church, 210 Fourth Ave.; 815-625-0114; rockfallsumc.org or Facebook
First Congregational United Church of Christ, 905 Dixon Ave.; 815-6253314 First Christian Church, 506 Fifth Ave.; 815-626-2271; fccrockfalls.blogspot.com
Evangelical
Evangelical Congregational Church, 1602 13th Ave., 815-625-5360
Foursquare Foursquare Church, 1501 11th Ave.; 815-6255040; foursquare.org/ churches/31679
Lutheran Good Shepherd Lutheran, 435 Martin Road; 815625-3376; gslcrf.org or Facebook Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran, 501 Eighth Ave.;
Methodist
Nondenominational Harvest Time Bible Church, 1802 Dixon Ave.; 815-626-1234; htbc.info Shalom Assembly of Yahweh, 9843 Hoover Road; 815-718-1323; forhisname.com or Facebook
Open Bible First Open Bible Church, 2105 E. Rock Falls Road; 815-625-1957; fobrf.org or Facebook
Pentecostal New Life Tabernacle, 513 E. 10th St., or 815625-2926
Courtesy of Falls United Methodist Facebook page
Rock Falls United Methodist, 210 Fourth Ave., features many beautiful stained glass windows. 40
Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
STERLING | PLACES OF WORSHIP Baptist
Episcopal
Emmanuel Baptist, 1904 18th Ave.; 815-625-0351; ebcsterling.comn or Facebook Faith Baptist, 2005 Freeport Road; 815-6257690; faithbaptiststerling. com First Baptist Church, 1705 Sixth Ave.; 815-6251288 Macedonia Baptist Church, 1313 Woodburn Ave.; 815-625-6473
Grace Episcopal, 707 First Ave.; 815-625-0442; episcopalgrace.org or Facebook
Catholic Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 2224 Ave. J; 815625-1134; sacredheartparish.net or Facebook St. Mary Catholic Church, 600 Ave. B; 815-625-0640; stmarysterling.com
Church of Christ 16th Avenue Church of Christ, 1902 16th Ave.; 815-625-2251; sterlingcofc.blogspot.com or Facebook
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 2709 16th Ave., 815-6251229
Congregational Big Red Church, 311 Second Ave.; 815-6255112; bigredchurchsterling. org or Facebook
Disciples of Christ First Christian Church, 3400 N. Sixth Ave.; 815625-6851; firstchristianchurchofsterling.org or Facebook Sauk Valley Media
Jewish Temple Sholom, 510 E. 10th St.; 815-625-2599
Lutheran First Lutheran Church of Jordan, 20314 Hickory Hills Road; 815-625-5407; Facebook Messiah Lutheran Church, 1601 Ave. F; 815625-2284; mlcsterling.com or Facebook New Life Lutheran Church, 702 W. Lynn Blvd.; 815-499-6552; nllutheran. com or Facebook Our Savior Lutheran, 21496 Hazel Road, 815772-4345 St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran, 703 Third Ave; 815-625-2634; stjohnssterling.org or Facebook St. Paul Lutheran, 1701 16th Ave.; 815-625-3069; stpaulsterling.com or Facebook
Mennonite Community Mennonite Fellowship, meets at YWCA, 412 First Ave.; 815-2383421; community-mennonite. org or Facebook Science Ridge Mennonite Church, 1702 E. Science Ridge Road; 815626-0538
Methodist East Jordan United Methodist, 22253 Polo Road; 815-626-0104; eastjordanchurch.org or Facebook First United Methodist
Church, 501 Broadway Ave.; 815-625-0244 Trinity United Methodist, 205 E. 10th St.; 815-6267777 Wesley United Methodist Church, 2200 16th Ave.; 815-625-1968 or Facebook
Nazarene First Church of the Nazarene, 411 13th Ave.; 815625-0864; sterlingnaz.com or Facebook
Nondenominational Abiding Word Church, 806 E. Lynn Blvd.; 815626-1827; abidingwordchurch.org or Facebook Amazing Grace of Sterling, 512 Second Ave., 815-625-9300; revivalfires. net or Facebook Faith Family Fellowship, 417 E. Third St.; 815626-2577; faithfamily. faithweb.com Firehouse of God Ministries, 306 Fifth Ave.; 815622-9490; firehouseofgodministries.com or Facebook Full Gospel Assembly, 3807 River Road; 815-6264499; Facebook The Living Bread, 1003 Griswold Ave.; 815-626-6941
Presbyterian First Presbyterian Church, 410 Second Ave.; 815-625-0452; firstpresbyteriansterling.org or Facebook
Reformed Bethel Reformed Church, 230 E. 23rd St.; 815-626-1816; bethelreformed.org or Facebook
Salvation Army Salvation Army, 409 Ave. F, 815-625-1622; Facebook 41
ROCK FALLS & STERLING | CLUBS Rock Falls and Sterling are home to many community and volunteer groups. American Legion Post 902; 712 Fourth Ave., Rock Falls; 815-626-3862l; legion.org or Facebook American Legion Post 296, 601 First Ave., Sterling; 815-625-1212; legion.org or Facebook Beta Sigma Phi women’s service organization; 888238-2221; bspinternational. org Boy Scouts of America, Blackhawk Area Council, White Eagle District; 815397-0210; blackhawkscouting.org Carpenters Local 790; 1008 Seventh Ave., Rock Falls; 815-626-1533 CGH Medical Center Auxiliary; 100 E. LeFevre Road, Sterling; or 815-6250400, ext. 4642; cghmc.com Church Women United; 210 Fourth Ave., Rock Falls; Carol Siefken, 815625-0114 Crossroads Youth Ministries; 117 W. Second St., Rock Falls; 815-625-4371; Facebook Daughters of the American Revolution, Rock River Chapter; 815-7722493; rootsweb.ancestry. com/~ildar/rockriver Eagles Club 2783; 321 W. Second St., Rock Falls; 815-625-2451; Facebook Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois; 229 First Ave. Rock Falls; 815-997-5100; www. girlscoutsni.org 4-H, University of Illinois Extension Office for Lee, Carroll and Whiteside counties, 12923 Lawrence Road in Sterling; 815-63242
3611; web.extension.illinois.edu or Facebook Jaycees-Sterling/Rock Falls; Nick Hubbard, P.O. Box 705, Sterling; 815626-6061 Kiwanis of Sterling; sterlingkiwanis.org or Facebook. Knights of Columbus No. 662; kofc.org or call the nearest Catholic church Latin American Social Club; 2708 W. Fourth St., Sterling; 815-626-8290; Facebook Thrivent Financial; Larry Cooper; 2000 N. Locust St., Sterling; 815-625-2200 Masonic Lodge 612; 113 1/2 W. Third St., Sterling; 612-il.ourlodgepage.com Moose Lodge 726; 2601 E. Lincolnway, Sterling; 815-625-0354; sterlingmoose726.org Optimist Club-Rock Falls; optimistofrockfalls@ gmail.com; Facebook Optimist Club-Sterling; sterling.optimist@gmail. com; Facebook PEO Sisterhood Chapter CC; Sue Lee; 616 W. 13th St., Sterling; 815-626-3377 Rebekah Lodge 202; Connie Willhite; 815-6253423 Rock Falls-Sterling Community Service Club; Julie Conley, 815-626-5294 Rock Falls Women’s Club; Pam Erby, 815-6250253 Rock River Human Resources Professional Association; 815-2855618; rrhrpa.shrm.org Rock River Road Runners running club; 815626-1948; rockriverroadrunners.org or Facebook
Rock River Valley Barbershop Chorus; rockrivervalleychorus.org or Facebook Rock River Valley International Fellowship; P.O. Box 541, Rock Falls; or Carol Diebert, 815-625-5896 Rotary Club, Twin City Sunrise; rotary6420.org or Facebook Rotary Club of Rock Falls; rockfallsrotary.org or Facebook Rotary Club of Sterling; Russ Siefken, P.O. Box 806, Sterling; 815-6257973; sterlingilrotary.com Sauk Valley Association of Realtors, 2605 Woodlawn Rd #4, Sterling; 815626-8148 Sauk Valley Landlord Association; Rod Kleckler, 815-625-2059 or Kathy Wollsey, 815-625-0624; svla.org Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society; 1005 E. Third St., Sterling; 815622-6215; srfhs.com or Facebook Toastmasters; Sterling; 949-858-8255; toastmasters.org United Methodist Women of Rock Falls; Carol Siefken, 815-625-0114 Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5418; 217 First Ave., Rock Falls; on Facebook or 815-626-3513 Whiteside County Genealogists; Marilyn Huffman Anderson at the Sterling Public Library; genealogy@ sterlingpubiclibrary.org or 815-625-1370; genealogytrails.com/ill/whiteside Yak Yak Sisters kayaking club for men and women; on Facebook
Get to know us...Sterling-Rock Falls, Illinois • 2017-2018
ROCK FALLS & STERLING | NUMBERS & WEBSITES TO NOTE Service providers Allied Waste 1214 S. Bataan Road, Dixon 815625-1281 ComEd (serves Sterling) 800-334-7661 comed.com Comcast 800-226-2278 comcast.com Illinois American Water Co. 815-625-0017 amwater.com Moring Disposal 815-622-0500 Nicor Gas 888-642-6748 nicorgas.com Rock Falls Electric Department 1109 Industrial Park Road 815-622-1145 rockfalls61071.net/utility-services/ electric-services Rock Falls Water Department 603 W. 10th St. 815-622-1120 rockfalls61071.net/utility-services/ water-services Sauk Valley Media 3200 E. Lincolnway, Sterling 815-625-3600 saukvalley.com
Other need-to-know numbers Whiteside County Clerk 200 E. Knox St., Morrison 815-772-5189 Whiteside County Collector-Treasurer 200 E. Knox St., Morrison 815-772-5196 Whiteside County Assessor 200 E. Knox St., Morrison 815-772-5195 Sauk Valley Media
CGH Medical Center 100 E. LeFevre Road, Sterling 815-625-0400 Illinois State Driver’s License Exam Station 1224 W. Fourth St., Sterling 815-626-2825 Rock Falls Public Library 1007 Seventh Ave. 815-626-3958 Sterling Public Library 102 W. Third St. 815-625-1370 Rock Falls Post Office 210 Second Ave. 815-626-0514 Sterling Post Office 408 Third Ave. 815-625-0812 Rock Falls City Hall 603 W. 10th St. – 815-622-1100 Sterling City Hall 212 Third Ave. – 815-632-6621
Non-emergency numbers CGH Emergency Services 100 E. LeFevre Road, Sterling 815-626-6649 Rock Falls Fire Department 1013 Seventh Ave. 815-622-1135 Sterling Fire Department 110 W. Fifth St. 815-626-0154 Rock Falls Police Department 1013 Seventh Ave. 815-622-1140 Sterling Police Department 212 Third St. 815-632-6600 Whiteside County Sheriff’s Department 400 N. Cherry St., Morrison 815-772-4044 In an emergency ... 911 43
Your “Hometown” DIXON SUPERCENTER 1640 S. Galena Avenue 815-288-7770
ROCK FALLS
1901 1st Avenue 815-626-6800 STERLING SUPERCENTER 4115 E. Lincolnway 815-626-7200 STERLING DISTRIBUTION
23769 Mathew Road Sterling (Just off Rt. 30)
815-632-4900
www.careers.walmart.com
starting $16.35 per hr
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