SVM_Readers Choice 2019-022219 by Shaw Media

2019

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

A PUBLICATION February 22, 2019

• Bakery • Facility • Food Service • First Date • Milk Shake • Steak Breakfast • Brunch • Chicken • Coffee • Dessert • Fries • Hamburgers Ice Cream • Lunch • Margaritas • Mexican Food • Pizza • Seafood Tacos • Restaurant • Salad Bar • Bar/Tavern • Casino • Theater Columnist • Comic • Bowl • Darts & Pool • Rent A Video • Radio Station • Church • Golf Course • Local Politician • Nursing Home Park • Camping • Exercise • Small Town • Veterinary Clinic • Antique Shop • Appliance Store • Auctioneer • Body Shop • Barbershop Beauty Salon • Car Wash • Day care • Carpenter • Dental Clinic • Dry Cleaners • Flower Shop • Gift Store • Pet Store • Oil Change

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS WINNERS DINING

Favorite Banquet Facility

First Place Arthur’s Garden Deli

First Place Aurelio’s Bakery

First Place Candlelight Inn (both locations)

Second Place Culver’s

Second Place AirPlay Sports & Espresso

Second Place Champs Banquet Venue

Third Place County Market

Third Place Deer Valley Golf Club

Honorable Mention Folsom’s Bakery

Honorable Mention Barnacopia - Polo

Favorite Bakery

First Place Candlelight Inn (both locations) Second Place Somkit (formerly Touch of Thai)

Third Place Don Pedro’s

Third Place Basil Tree

Honorable Mention McDonald’s

Honorable Mention Smoked on 3rd

Favorite Place for a First Date

Favorite Insurance Agency

Favorite Fast Food Service

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

2019

Thank you for the honor of being voted as the favorite insurance company in the Sauk Valley Area!

We would like to thank all of the readers and advertisers who participated in our Readers’ Choice survey and this special edition. Sauk Valley Media publishers of daily Gazette & Telegraph

Sunday Dugger of Rock Falls is our Readers’ Choice winner of a $50 gift card for groceries!

It is our pleasure to provide great rates and service to all of our current customers and future prospects. Our goal is to help you protect your family from life’s unexpected challenges. Insurance and financial products can be confusing, but we will work to explain these choices in clear and concise terms for you and your family. And, we will always try to greet you on a first name basis. When you are in Sterling, Rock Falls, Dixon, Morrison or Fulton – give one of us a call so we can show you why State Farm is the number one insurance company in the Sauk Valley Area.

Thank You For Voting Us #1 Antique Shop! We appreciate your support

307 First Ave.,Sterling Mon.-Fri. 9 - 5:30p.m.• Sat. 9 - 5p.m • Sun. 10 - 4p.m. SM-ST1631555

Third Place Forest Inn

First Place Dairy Queen

Honorable Mention Candlelight Inn (both locations)

Second Place Culver’s

First Place Maple Pancake House

Honorable Mention Dairy Mart Plus

Second Place Eggs in Paradise

Favorite Place for a Steak

Third Place Flynnie’s Honorable Mention Town & Country Family Restaurant - Dixon

BEST CUSTOMERS IN THE WORLD! Good Food... GREAT TIMES! 218 Locust St., Sterling 625-7969 (For Carryout)

Thank you for voting Kelly’s your favorite establishment for Tacos, Mexican Food and as one of your favorites for Margarita’s & Lunch!

We appreciate your continued support

Thank you!

FURNITURE • APPLIANCES • MATTRESSES • TV’S

1ST PLACE IN FURNITURE & APPLIANCES! KNIE’S WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR VALUED CUSTOMERS FOR MAKING US YOUR # 1 DESTINATION TO SHOP FOR APPLIANCES AND FURNITURE!

's ~ Furniture & Mattresses In Sterling Only ~

STERLING 3614 E Lincolnway 815-626-5631

POLO

708 S Division Street 815-946-2714

• February 22, 2019

First Place Prime Quarter Steak House

SM-ST1631571

PAY KNIES A VISIT TODAY!

Favorite Place for Breakfast

Third Place Dairy Delite

Second Place Galena Steak House

Don’t Pay More ...

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Favorite Place for a Milk Shake

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Favorite Place for Brunch

First Place Starbucks

Second Place Culver’s

Second Place Shamrock Pub

First Place White Pines Resort

Second Place AirPlay Sports & Espresso

Third Place Triple P BBQ

Third Place The Factory

Second Place Smoked on 3rd

Third Place McDonald’s

Honorable Mention Shamrock Pub

Third Place The Brandywine

Honorable Mention Flip Side Coffee & Espresso Bar

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

Honorable Mention Mama Cimino’s

First Place Dairy Queen Second Place Culver’s

Second Place Rip’s Tavern - Ladd

Third Place Dairy Delite

Third Place B.B.Y. Chicken & Carry Out

Honorable Mention Arthur’s Garden Deli

Favorite Place for Coffee

Favorite Place for Ice Cream

Favorite Place for Hamburgers

First Place Dairy Queen

First Place Culver’s

Favorite Place for Dessert

First Place Candlelight Inn (both locations)

Honorable Mention Brenda’s Chicken Coop

Favorite Place for Chicken

Honorable Mention Lisa’s Brick House

Second Place Culver’s

Thank You for Voting us... Pharmacy

2506 E. Lincolnway Sterling • 815-626-4920

1700 1st Ave. Rock Falls • 815-626-9562

1275 N. Galena Ave. Dixon • 815-288-7844

Favorite Place for French Fries First Place McDonald’s

Favorite Heating/Cooling Contractor

Farley’s Home Appliance/Heating & Cooling, 1245 N. Galena Ave, Dixon, IL 61021. 815-284-2052. In business since 1960. Farley’s was started in 1960 by Joe (Chuck’s grandfather) and Jerry Farley (Chuck’s uncle). In the mid 1990’s Chuck Murphy became partner. When Jerry retired in 2000, Chuck took over running Farley’s on his own. Farley’s has always been a home appliance sales and service business. In 2006, Chuck branched out adding heating and cooling in order to offer a widerrange of services to his loyal customers. Farley’s has an ever growing heating and cooling department and strives to have the best selection of home appliances. Farley’s also has an outstanding service department to service all of it’s appliances and there’s only one number you need to call for all your service needs! Today, Farley’s is a complete heating and cooling contractor with brands including: York, Amana, and Bryant, and our home appliance selection stands strong providing popular brands including: GE, Whirlpool, Maytag, Kitchen Aid, and GE Monogram. Our service department is available to meet the customers’ every need and after 59 years Farley’s still promises one thing, “We service what we sell”!

auk Valley For Votin S u o Y k g Us n a h T One of your Favorites in the Following Categories... Grocery Store, Garden Supplies, Greeting Cards, Men’s Fashions & Sporting Goods STERLING SUPERCENTER

ROCK FALLS

DIXON SUPERCENTER

4115 E. Lincolnway

1901 1st Avenue

1640 S. Galena

815-626-7200

SM-ST1632038

815-626-6800

815-288-7770

Second Place El Tapatio

Thank you to all of our patients for voting us

Honorable Mention Arthur’s Garden Deli

Third Place Kelly’s

#1 in the Sauk Valley Area.

Favorite Place for Lunch

Honorable Mention Willy’s

First Place Arthur’s Garden Deli

Sterling Dental Group

Favorite Place for Mexican Food

Second Place Kelly’s

First Place Kelly’s

Third Place Angelo’s

Second Place El Tapatio

Honorable Mention Triple P BBQ

Honorable Mention La Familia

815-626-9600

• Aaron M. Anderson, DDS • Ryan Murphy, DDS

SM-ST1631593

Sam Ramirez

www.RiverCountry1017.com

Thank you Sauk Valley Readers for voting us your Favorite Radio Station and Sam Ramirez your Favorite Radio Personality in the 2019 Readers Choice Awards.

• February 22, 2019

“Caring For Today’s Family”

Third Place Willy’s

Favorite Place for Margaritas First Place Candlelight Inn (both locations)

We appreciate your conﬁdence in us.

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Third Place Dairy Delite

Favorite Place for Pizza

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

First Place Angelo’s

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

Second Place Al & Leda’s Pizzeria - Dixon

Third Place Candlelight Inn (both locations)

Chevrolet Cadillac GMC Buick Ram Toyota Chrysler Dodge Jeep Nissan

Honorable Mention Don’s Seafood & Chicken

Proudly serving the Sauk Valley Area for over 50 years!

Favorite Place for Tacos Third Place Al & Leda’s Pizza Villa Sterling

First Place Kelly’s

Honorable Mention Manny’s

Second Place Manny’s Third Place Willy’s

Favorite Place for Seafood First Place Somkit (formerly Touch of Thai) Second Place Forest Inn

Honorable Mention El Jacalito

Favorite Restaurant First Place Somkit (formerly Touch of Thai)

www.Kennelsonauto.com 815-288-4455

11100 N Galena Ave in Dixon

From purchase, through the life of your vehicle, we want to be your car people.

MERTES & MERTES, P.C. VOTED THE NUMBER 1 FAVORITE LAW FIRM OF THE SAUK VALLEY. AGAIN.

SM-ST1631964

Second Place The Factory

Honorable Mention Forest Inn

Honorable Mention Shamrock

Favorite Casino

Favorite Salad Bar First Place Angelo’s Second Place Forest Inn

First Place Wild Rose

ENTERTAINMENT Favorite Bar/Tavern First Place PatiO’s Irish Pub

TO SERVE YOU SAUK VALLEY!

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE:

Beauty Salons, Massage/Day Spa, Tanning Salon, and place to get a Manicure/Pedicure!

Third Place Isle of Capri Honorable Mention Rhythm City

Favorite Movie Theater First Place AMC Classic - Sterling Second Place Sterling Theater - Downtown Third Place Midway Drive-In

Amanda Fortune, Tanya Turner, Dawn Schmall, Carolynn Hammelman, Liz Arduini, Stephanie Heﬂin, Laura Driessens, Chelsey Cooksey, Susie Wheeler, Haley Grell, Jill Ehredt, Sarah Bernard, Ashley Devers. Not pictured; Veronica

We Accept Walk-Ins Women • Men • Kids

Favorite Nursing Home/Assisted Living

HERITAGE WOODS OF STERLING IS THE AREA’S BEST AFFORDABLE ASSISTED LIFESTYLE COMMUNITY. The community, which is designed to serve adults 65 and older of all incomes who need some help to maintain their independence, was the first affordable assisted lifestyle community in the Sterling and Rock Falls area of North Central Illinois. The community opened in 2009 and is managed by Gardant Management Solutions, the largest provider of affordable assisted living in Illinois. Heritage Woods of Sterling provides a wonderful residential alternative to a nursing home or to those struggling alone at home. Residents have the opportunity to: •Live in a private apartment. Each of the apartments features a kitchenette, spacious bathroom and emergency alert system. •Receive personal assistance and help with medications. Certified staff are onduty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Support services, such as three daily meals, housekeeping and laundry are also included. •Enjoy the companionship of friends and neighbors and participate in social and recreational activities. The emphasis at our community is on providing residents with the dignity they deserve and on helping each resident maintain as much independence as possible for as long as possible. To arrange a visit or to obtain more information about Heritage Woods of Sterling, call 815-625-7045.

• February 22, 2019

PLEASURE

Second Place Jumer’s Casino - Rock Island

Third Place Arthur’s Garden Deli Honorable Mention Galena Steak House

Third Place The Rusty Fox

Third Place Basil Tree

X treme

IT IS OUR

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Second Place Candlelight Inn (both locations)

• Esthetician & Makeup Artist • Makeup • Facials • Eyelashes • Dimensional Color • Perms

• Relaxers • Extensions • Nails • Manicures • Pedicures • Shellac • Massages • Body Wraps • Hot Stones • Spray Tanning • Body & Facial Waxing

1411 E. 4th Street Sterling, IL 815-625-7114 SM-ST1631525

Favorite Newspaper Comic

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

Honorable Mention Clinton 8 Movie Theater

Favorite Newspaper Columnist

First Place Garfield

First Place Andrea Mills

Second Place Peanuts

Second Place Brian Weidman

Third Place Family Circus

Third Place Ty Reynolds

Honorable Mention Blondie

Thank You!

Favorite Place to Bowl First Place Plum Hollow Second Place Paone’s Blackhawk Lanes Third Place Hilltop Lanes - Morrison Honorable Mention Town & Country Lanes Mt. Morris

723 W. Route 30, Rock Falls, IL 61071 (815) 625-6195

847 N Galena Ave, Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 994-4100

SM-ST1630943

when it matters most

Second Place PatiO’s Irish Pub Third Place Last Stop

Honorable Mention Wagon Wheel We are THANKFUL for you! When you support a small Business, you are supporting a dream. We are THANKFUL for all of our loyal Customers for the past 16 Years! BEN & MISSY PHILLIPS

Ben Phillips

Illinois Licensed Master Barber

Ben’s Phresh Kutz

207 2nd Avenue • Rock Falls, IL 61071 (Across from the post ofﬁce)

815 • 625 • 3153

Check us out on Facebook! SM-ST1630921

Qualityy Insurance Coverage Q

First Place Whiskey Barrel

Honorable Mention Cardwell’s

For voting Discount Eyewear one of your favorites!

Dr. Darrin Vits

Favorite Place to Play Darts or Shoot Pool

Thank You for voting the Petunia Festival your favorite community event!

Please join us as we celebrate the 55th year of Petunia fun!

Thank you for voting Tracey Hemminger #1 Financial Advisor and Adami Insurance one of your favorite insurance agencies! Auto • Home • Life • SR22

Tracey Hemminger, Owner/Agent “Local agents serving Local people”

712 1st Avenue Rock Falls (815) 625-6220 www.adamiinsurance.com

www.petuniafestival.org SM-ST1630930

Honorable Mention Lisa’s Brick House

Third Place Redbox

Second Place Fun Jump

Favorite Place to Rent a Video

Honorable Mention Movie Magic - Morrison

Third Place White Pines

First Place Shooters

Second Place PatiO’s Irish Pub

First Place Netflix

Favorite Place to Take Kids

Third Place Shamrock

Second Place Family Video

First Place My Play Village - Dixon

Favorite Liquor Store

Honorable Mention Selmi’s

Favorite Radio Personality First Place Sam Ramirez

Thank You for Voting Us One of Your Favorites...

The Beverage Store 500 West Rock Falls Rd., (Rte. 30), Rock Falls We have been serving the Sauk Valley area for the past 19 years and we take pride that we are able to offer a wide selection of Beer, Craft Beer, Liquor and Wine. We offer import and domestic beer, and recently added a selection of organic items in each category.

Grocery Store, Place to Buy Meat, Bakery & Liquor Store

We should have what you are looking for with our diverse selections and our staff is always willing to help or answer any questions you may have. We offer quality service, convenience and great prices! We are open Monday - Thursday 7am - 11pm, Friday and Saturday 7am - Midnight and Sunday 10am - 10pm.

210 W. 3rd, Sterling • 815-622-0180 1380 N. Galena, Dixon • 815-288-2112

# SM-ST1631527

om e

of t h

e Original Spagh

zza i etti P

Thanks for voting us...

For Pizza & Salad Bar!

One of your favorite places for lunch!

Angelo’s

Angelo’s II

Angelo’s III

Angelo’s Delivery

815-625-5163 608 12th Ave. Rock Falls

815-625-5451 2525 E. Lincolnway Sterling

815-285-0055 800 North Galena Ave. Dixon

815-625-5000 1804 Locust St. Sterling

• February 22, 2019

Sauk Valley

The Beverage Store of Rock Falls

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Favorite Place to Play Slots

Second Place Dwyer & Michaels

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Third Place Bob & Tom Honorable Mention Steve Shannon

Favorite Radio Station First Place 101.7-WRCV Second Place 106.5-KCQQ Third Place 101.3-KUUL Honorable Mention 107.7-WLLT

JUST FOR FUN Favorite Church and Where

Second Place Abiding Word Church Sterling

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US AS YOUR

Third Place St. Patrick’s Catholic Church Dixon

R E O ! T S R O U Q I L FAVORITE

Honorable Mention Harvest Time Bible Church Rock Falls Honorable Mention St. Mary’s Catholic Church Sterling

THE

BEVERAGE STORE st

Favorite Community Event First Place Dixon Petunia Festival Second Place Rock Falls Hometown Holidays

First Place St. Andrew Catholic Church Rock Falls

500 WEST RTE #30 • ROCK FALLS, IL

Third Place Amboy Depot Days

Thank you for Voting Us as One of Your

Honorable Mention Fiesta Days

Favorite Insurance Agency

Favorite Places to Buy Flooring!

Jack Spencer of Rock Falls Thirty five years ago I came to Rock Falls to begin my State Farm career. Our office sells auto, home, business, life and health insurance through State Farm. We also offer bank products through State Farm Bank. I have a talented and experienced team of 8 employees. Stacey Baker has been with us for 32 years. Debbie Wilhelmi has 31 years of experience with us. Jennifer Rowzee has been with us for 28 years. Cindy Stark has 17 years of experience. Christa Bertolozzi has 13 years. Alisha Stevens 6 years and Josh Eggleston 5 years. This team is a great, caring and hard working group. They put customers first and look forward to working with all those they come in contact with. We so appreciate the support of this community. Thank-you for being such good neighbors. Monday-Friday 8:30-5.

Dixon Rock Falls 815-535-9226 • 1111 1st Ave. Rock Falls, IL 61071 815-288-1928 • 1419 N. Galena, Dixon, IL 61021 Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. • Sat. 9 a.m to 3 p.m. SM-ST1631629

brothersﬂooring.abbeycarpet.com

Favorite Golf Course First Place Emerald Hill Golf Course

Favorite Park

Second Place Deer Valley Golf Club

First Place Lowell Park

Third Place Lost Nation Golf Course

Second Place White Pines Forest State Park

Honorable Mention Rock River Golf & Pool

Third Place Starved Rock State Park

Favorite Local Politician

Honorable Mention Sinnissippi Park

Favorite Pet Groomer

Second Place Tom Demmer

First Place Muddy Paws

Third Place Skip Lee

Second Place PetSmart

Thank you for voting us #1 place to purchase tires in the Sauk Valley!

The building was originally a bank. It was then the home to several restaurants and even a disco spot before becoming an Antique Mall. We have antiques and collectible items. Hundreds of vendors call Showplace Antiques & Treasures home. Showplace Antiques & Treasures is a shopping destination for those who love antiques. Booths from our vendors are decorated to enhance your shopping experience. From seasonal décor to home interior design and more. Showplace Antiques & Treasures it’s our name- It’s what we love! We have the best customers in the world and quality dealers. Our family is friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Join us for a multi-level shopping experience and enjoy coffee and cookies while you shop. Here at Showplace Antiques we are one big family. Stop by and see us today. Like us on Facebook! In business since 2009! 307 First Ave.,Sterling

THE BUTCHER SHOP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MEAT STORE

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL OF OUR CUSTOMERS FOR MAKING US YOUR #1 PLACE TO BUY MEAT!

MooreTires.com We are Moore than just tires! Now serving 5 locations! (Rock Falls, Mendota, Kewanee, Monmouth, Macomb)

@MooreTires1

3309 W. Rock Falls Rd., Rock Falls 815-632-3931 | thebutchershopsrf@gmail.com Open Mon-Fri 9am - 6pm• Sat & Sun 9am-3pm

• February 22, 2019

First Place Joe McDonald

Favorite Antique Shop

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Honorable Mention Li Arellano

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

Third Place River Ridge Animal Hospital

Third Place Rockwood State Park

Honorable Mention Wizard of Paws

Honorable Mention Mississippi Palisades State Park

Favorite Place to Buy Lotto Tickets

First Place Planet Fitness

Second Place Shell

Second Place Anytime Fitness

Favorite Place to Camp

Thank You

1215 N. Galena Ave. Dixon, IL

Honorable Mention Dixon Family YMCA

Favorite Small Town

First Place O’Connell’s Yogi Bear Jellystone Park

First Place Oregon

Second Place White Pines Forest State Park

Second Place Morrison

SM-ST1631955

284-7698 THANK YOU SAUK VALLEY FOR VOTING

Favorite Veterinary Clinic

River Ridge of Dixon River Ridge Animal Hospital provides pets in the Sauk Valley area with the best possible veterinary care, grooming, boarding and day care services. The goal of their caring staff and doctors is to provide the highest quality pet care in the region using state-of-the art equipment and techniques while still maintaining compassionate small town service and care. Services offered include personalized wellness care, therapeutic “cold” laser for acute and chronic conditions, soft tissue laser surgery, digital radiology, ultrasound, in house laboratory services, advanced dental care, rhinoscopy and orthopedic surgery including external fracture fixation. The doctors and staff are also trained in fear free techniques to try and make your pet’s healthcare experience as enjoyable as possible. Going beyond just your pet’s healthcare needs, River Ridge offers an extensive array of services to spoil and pamper your pet. Their groomers offer numerous pampering and primping services during expanded hours to make your pet look their best. Whether you need to leave your pet for just one day or for a month, your pet will be spoiled in River Ridge’s spacious boarding facility. The boarding area offers everything from deluxe overnight accommodations to daycare services. Visit us at www.riverridgevets. com

We are Committed to Always Improving

Third Place Westwood Fitness & Sports Center

Honorable Mention Kroger

d to be you

Since 1968

Favorite Place to Exercise

First Place Casey’s

Third Place Kelley’s Market-Mobil (all locations)

ou r P

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

US #1

• Favorite Banquet Facility • Favorite Place for Chicken • Favorite Place for Margarita’s • Favorite Place for a 1st Date Sterling, IL 2907 N. Locust St. 815-625-2600 SM-ST1631508

Rock Falls, Il 2200 First Ave. 815-626-1897

Clinton, IA 511 Riverview Dr. 563-243-3200

Third Place Amboy

Favorite Antique Shop First Place Showplace Antiques & Treasures

Favorite Veterinary Clinic

Second Place Waterfront Gifts & Antiques

First Place Knie Appliance & T.V., Inc.

Honorable Mention Reubin’s Relics

Second Place Farley’s

Favorite Appliance Store

Third Place Clover Hills

First Place River Ridge Animal Hospital

Honorable Mention Prescott’s

Second Place Morrison Veterinary Clinic

Favorite Auctioneer First Place Rob Young

Third Place Veterinary Clinic of Prophetstown

Second Place Lyle Dirks

Third Place Lenny Bryson

SHOPPING

Thank You For Voting Us Your #1 Animal Hospital In The Sauk Valley Area

Awardwinning sundaybuffet

FIRST

PLACE

Buy One Sunday Buffet Get 2nd 1/2 PRICE* * 1/2 price meal must be of equal or lesser value. Valid from 8am-2pm Must present coupon at time of service. Beverages not included. Coupon good thru 3/31/19.

OPEN DAILY FOR BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER STARTING FRIDAY MARCH 1

SM-ST1631968

273 Il Route 2 Dixon, IL (815) 288-3394 www.riverridgevets.com

resort LLC

www.WhitePinesResort.net | 815-946-2400 Located in White Pines Forest State Park

• February 22, 2019

Honorable Mention Advanced Animal Health Center

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Honorable Mention Grand Detour

Third Place Olde Glory Antiques

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Honorable Mention Kevin Considine

Third Place The Loop

Favorite Auto Body Shop

Honorable Mention Sterling Barber Shop

First Place Slim-N-Hank’s

Favorite Beauty Salon

Second Place Williams Auto Body Third Place Dixon Autobody Clinic Honorable Mention Kunes Country Collision Center

First Place Lotus Wellness Spa & Salon Second Place Extreme Hair & Day Spa Third Place Statik Hair Studio & Day Spa Honorable Mention B’lush Salon

Favorite Barbershop First Place Ben’s Phresh Kutz Second Place Bill & Dick’s Barber Shop

Favorite Car Wash First Place Huffman Car Wash

Preston-Schilling Funeral Home, Ltd. Serving Dixon &The Sauk Valley Area Since 1904 Thank you for voting us one of your favorite funeral homes

Favorite Flower Shop Merlin’s Greenhouse & Flowers & Other Side Boutique Merlin started out working at Blackhawk Gardens on February 1, 1971 on a school work program. In 1974, he began renting the business and bought it in 1976. Merlin’s Greenhouse and the Otherside Boutique is a full-service florist, gift and women’s boutique. We do floral for all occasions, custom silk arrangements, have a large selection of antique furniture, and gifts for all ages. Merlin’s offers an 11,000 square foot greenhouse for all your planting needs. Tyler has joined the business this year and will be our full time greenhouse grower. He has 8 degrees in general horticulture from Kishwaukee College. We recently changed our painting and lighting and have added new metal accents to give the store a more home décor look. We are also working on replacing the roof and benches in the greenhouse. We continue to grow and change for our valued customers. We offer competitive pricing and have 4 open houses per year. We appreciate the support over the last 48 years. Hours: Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm, Saturday 8 am – 3pm. Closed Sunday

Favorite Place for Brunch White Pines Resort in White Pines State Park

Jesse P. Partington

Beth Baker

Licensed Funeral Directors Jesse P. Partington, Owner

213 Crawford Ave., Dixon, IL 815-288-4469 www.prestonschilling.com SM-ST1630906

On behalf of myself and the entire staff at White Pines Resort, we would like to thank you, the Sauk Valley area diners for voting us once again as your favorite place to have Sunday Brunch. We are tickled pink you love coming to the lodge for our all you can eat buffet! Not only are we open on Sundays for our brunch but every day of the week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests order from a menu filled with hand crafted and delicious dishes of Paul Bunyan sized breakfasts, homemade soups, chicken pot pies, barbecued ribs and mouthwatering desserts. White Pines is truly an experience and so much more than just a place to get a meal. The drive through the park to reach the majestic and historic log lodge restaurant is filled with bubbling streams, limestone bluffs and a majestic pine tree forest. The stresses of everyday life simply melt away as you wind your way through the park and up to the lodge. And once you have arrived we welcome you with genuine Midwest heartfelt hospitality you don’t just find everywhere these days. Through the years we have become known as the place to go to celebrate those special occasions of birthdays, anniversaries and family reunions. Elizabeth George, Owner.

Favorite Children’s Daycare

Third Place Super Wash (all locations)

First Place Open Sesame

Honorable Mention Kelley’s Market-Mobil (all locations)

Second Place Lovett Child Development Center

Favorite Cell Phone Provider

Third Place Sterling Rock Falls Child Care

First Place Verizon

Honorable Mention CGH Helping Hands

Second Place US Cellular

Favorite Chiropractic Clinic

Honorable Mention AT&T

for voting us

as your

Favorite Flower Shop!

Stop by and see our NEW look and meet Tyler, our new greenhouse grower!

our y k r Ma ars for: d calen

Spring Open House

March 22nd and 23rd

Garden Party

April 26th and 27th

First Place be free chiropractic Second Place Johnson Chiropractic

Merlin’s Greenhouse & Flowers & Other Side Boutique SM-ST1632316

300 Mix Street, Oregon, IL 815-732-2969 merlinsgreenhouseandﬂowers.com

More Than A Flower Shop

Thank You Sauk Valley Readers! Voted #1 Auto Body Shop

Thank you. SM-ST1631596

-14 Years in a Row-

Auto Body and Collision Repair 24-Hour Towing • Lockout Service

1409 West 4th Street Sterling, IL 61081 • 815• 625• 1851 720 North Galena Dixon, IL • 815• 288• 3211

• February 22, 2019

Third Place Straight Talk

Thank you #

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Second Place Octopus Car Wash

Third Place Kirkland Chiropractic

Honorable Mention Kevin Wolf & Sons Construction

Favorite Dry Cleaners

Favorite Dental Clinic

First Place Sauk Valley Cleaners, Inc.

Favorite Convenience Store

First Place Sterling Dental Group

Second Place Mr. Nifty Cleaners

First Place Casey’s

Second Place Aspen Dental

Favorite Electrician

Honorable Mention Rice Chiropractic

Favorite Contractor/ Carpenter

Honorable Mention Phillips 66/Circle K

First Place Don Conklen Construction Second Place Terry Wolf Construction

Second Place Kelley’s Market-Mobil (all locations)

Third Place Marv Lofgren & Son

Third Place Shell

Third Place Brokaw & German Honorable Mention True Smiles

Thank you

First Place Dennis Electric Second Place Engel Electric

for voting us one of your favorites!

THANKS FOR VOTING US YOUR FAVORITE PLACE

SM-ST1631680

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

FOR ICE CREAM, MILK SHAKES AND DESSERTS!

Thank you for voting us one of your favorites!

STERLING

Wealth Planning

1203 W. 4TH ST. | 815-626-1313 SM-ST1631549

Favorite Place for Steak

Tax Planning Social Security Planning

The Prime Quarter Steak House This unique “Grill YourOwn” theme-style restaurant, customers get to select their own favorite cut of steak and then grill it themselves over live hickory charcoal grills. The menu is simple-U.S.D.A. Choice steaks range in size from a 9-ounce filet mignon to a 21-ounce T-bone. You may also choose the pork chops or seafood filets. Unlimited trips to the salad bar, baked potato and Texas toast are included in the dinner price. The Prime Quarter in Princeton recently celebrated its 27th year in business and was recognized by the Illinois Beef Association as a top ten steak house in Illinois. They also have locations in Green Bay and Janesville, Wisconsin. Stop by for an excellent steak dinner, served by the incredible experienced staff who is committed to giving our the guests the very best service in the area.

www.NicklausFinancialService.com

815-288-3554 Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC. SM-ST1631654

Honorable Mention United Electric

Third Place Trinity Insurance & Financial Honorable Mention Raymond James

Thank you for voting us your

#1 Favorite Place to Camp!

Favorite Flower Shop Favorite Financial Advisor First Place Tracey Hemminger Second Place Chad Nicklaus Third Place Adam Olson

Favorite Financial Planner

Second Place Lundstrom Florist

Can’t wait to see you this summer!

Third Place Weeds Honorable Mention Behrz Bloomz

• February 22, 2019

Honorable Mention Brett Nicklaus

First Place Merlin’s Greenhouse & Flowers

970 Green Wing Rd Amboy, IL 815-857-3860

Favorite Funeral Home First Place McDonald Funeral Homes SM-ST1630909

First Place Edward Jones (all locations)

Second Place Nicklaus Financial Services

Second Place Schilling Funeral Home Third Place Preston-Schilling Funeral Home

Favorite Place to buy Flooring

For more than two decades Brothers Flooring has proudly served the Sauk Valley Area’s floor covering needs.

THANK YOU! Sauk Valley For Voting Me

Best Agent in the Area!

With 2 locations to serve our customers, we offer a tremendous selection of carpet, ceramic and porcelain tile, hardwoods, laminate, water-proof laminate, sheet vinyl along with luxury vinyl tiles or planks and custom window treatments.

As you’re #1 floor covering retailer in the Sauk Valley Area, it is our desire to provide the best and largest selection of floor covering in a friendly, comfortable, and helpful atmosphere to make your home improvement project as rewarding as you hope it to be.

LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR,

Jack Spencer STATE FARM IS THERE.® 313 First Ave Providing Insurance and Financial Services Rock Falls, IL 61071 815-625-5100 State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company State Farm Indemnity Company jack.spencer.bzn3@statefarm.com Bloomington, IL • statefarm.com ®

Brothers Flooring, where “You’re One of the Family!”

SM-ST1631666

Providing competitive prices for the “Do-It-Yourselfers” as well as guaranteed professional installation. Our knowledgable staff is there to help with your project every step of the way.

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Third Place Complete Electrical Contractors

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Favorite Gas Station

Honorable Mention Jones Funeral Homes

First Place Shell

Favorite Furniture Store First Place Knie’s Ashley Furniture HomeStore

Specializing S pecializing iin: n: Weddings, Seniors & Family

Second Place Casey’s Third Place Kroger

Second Place D & E Furniture

Honorable Mention Kelley’s Market-Mobil (all locations)

Third Place Harold’s Furniture Honorable Mention Wheelock Furniture

ou Thank Yg us

in for Vot 1 u Yo r # er! graph Photo

Favorite Gift Store First Place Golden Key Gifts

Favorite Garage Door Installer

Second Place Rustic Roots

First Place Garage Door Specialists

Third Place Bushel Basket Candle Co.

Second Place Raynor Door Authority Third Place Grizzly Garage Door

Where Photos Really Are... All About You

815 718 5136 /// N 815.718.5136 Nancey D Dorner www.youinphotosbynanc.zenfolio.com m SM-ST1631685

Honorable Mention Pam’s Hallmark

Favorite Grocery Store First Place Kroger

Favorite Place for Pizza & Salad Bar

Angelo’s Pizzeria Wayne and Maria Wright have owned Angelo’s in Rock Falls for over 50 years! People have come to love the unique flavor and quality of Angelo’s. This high demand led the Wrights to expand their operations and they opened Angelo’s II in Sterling in 1982 and the Delivery location 10 years later. In order to accommodate even more customers, they built a new building for Angelo’s II in 2004 and opened Angelo’s III on North Galena in Dixon in 2012. Angelo’s II and III can accommodate everyone from couples to large groups. These friendly, casual restaurants offer a great menu, freshly cut salad bar, daily lunch buffet, full bar with big screen tvs and a convenient carryout window! Angelo’s pizza and pasta recipes have been family favorites for over 50 years and keep customers coming back for more. Thank you for your loyalty and for voting us #1!

Thank You

For Voting Golden Key Gifts #1 Gift Shop For The Last 12 Years! Also For Voting Us One of Your Favorites to Buy Crafts! 702 W. 4th. Street Sterling 815-622-3903

Third Place Menards

Third Place Central Heating & Cooling

Second Place Country Financial

Third Place County Market

Honorable Mention Drummet’s Hardware Hank

Honorable Mention Workman Heating & Cooling

Third Place Adami Insurance

Honorable Mention Walmart

Honorable Mention Millegeville Do-It Best

Favorite Insurance Agency

Honorable Mention Hawkins-Cassens Insurance Agency

Favorite Hardware Store

Favorite Heating/ Cooling Contractor

First Place State Farm

First Place Grummert’s Hardware

First Place Farley’s Heating & Cooling

Second Place Ace Hardware & Outdoor Center - Dixon

Second Place Stewart’s Heating & Cooling

To All Who Voted For Us!

al & Leda’s

pizzeria

325 West Everett, Dixon • 815-284-3932

SM-ST1631937

Thank You to the Sauk Valley for voting me one of your favorites!

SM-ST1630911

Dr. Donald Rice

Rice Chiropractic, P.C.

307 W. 3rd Street, Dixon • 815-288-6653

318 W. First St., Dixon 815-288-2888

Thank You

Drop-offs welcome BWiemken2@gmail.com Cbahr421@gmail.com

for voting us one of your favorites!

INDIVIDUAL AND BUSINESS TAX RETURNS PAYROLL & BOOKKEEPING

SM-ST1630907

Welcome to a gracious affordable assisted lifestyle in your community Daniel is a new member of the Heritage Woods Community. Daniel was in great need of our services. He was worried that moving here would be like his ﬁrst day of school, but much to his surprise, he has been welcomed with open arms. Daniel said, “The staff and other residents have made it a smooth transition, I should have moved here a while ago.” He is enjoying freedom from cooking, cleaning, making household repairs, and shoveling snow! Daniel can frequently be found visiting, playing games with other residents or putting puzzles together.

Thank You To All Of The Reader’s Who Voted Us #1

A ﬁnancial assistance program is available to those who qualify, making the Heritage Woods lifestyle affordable to all. www.hw-sterling-slf.com 2205 Oak Grove Ave, Sterling (3 blocks N. of W. LeFevre) 815-625-7045 • Managed by Gardant Management Solutions

• February 22, 2019

Thank You

Call today to schedule your appointment!

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Second Place Aldi

Favorite Insurance Agent

First Place Anne’s Garden Center

First Place Jack Spencer

Second Place Distinctive Gardens

Second Place Bill Dean

Third Place McCormick’s Nursery & Garden Center

Third Place Chris Hammitt

Honorable Mention Dreamscapes By Dennis

Favorite Law Firm

Favorite Jewelry Store

First Place Mertes & Mertes

Second Place Kay Jewelers Third Place First Avenue Jewelry Honorable Mention Trein’s Jewelry

Favorite Landscape Contractor

Than Thank Th h nk You Y u ffor or voting ti us one o of your favorites for burgers & fries one of the best bars/taverns, and one of the best places to play slots in the Sauk Valley area! 1401 CHICAGO AVE. DIXON, IL • 815-288-4163

Honorable Mention Mike Sprague

First Place Venier Jewelers

Come Join Us! March 15th, 16th, and 17th for Corn Beef and Cabbage & Irish Tacos!

Second Place Ward, Murray, Pace & Johnson, PC Third Place Pignatelli & Associates Honorable Mention Ehrmann, Gehlbach, Badger, & Considine, LLC

Favorite Liquor Store First Place The Beverage Store

Favorite Auto Body Shop

Slim-n-Hank’s Auto Body Shop Our #1 priority has been customer service since 1962. We take the time to ensure all of your questions are answered and to make sure your experience is as stress-free as possible. Slim-N-Hanks is your one-stop auto body repair and refinishing center with state of the art equipment. We specialize in collision repairs, refinishing, framework, glass claims and alignments. We work very closely with many insurance companies as a direct service provider. We also have 24-hour towing and lockout services available at both the Dixon and Sterling locations. Ross Thuente and his staff at Slim-N-Hank’s Auto Body Shop want to thank everyone for voting them your Favorite Auto Body Shop for the 14th consecutive year!

Favorite Place to buy Tires

Thank you to everyone that voted us their

FAVORITE APPLIANCE STORE!

Your 1 SOURCE for the Top Brands! #

Moore Tires of Rock Falls Now 5 locations...Rock Falls, Mendota, Kewanee, Monmouth and Macomb. Moore Tires was founded in 1991 by Jeff and Angie, who moved here from Wheatland, IA. It started as a 2 bay building and Jeff and Angie’s home. Now an 11 bay building with over 30 employees. In 2014 a shop in Mendota was added. Moore Tires fix and replace tires of all kinds including cars, trucks, semis, farm, ATV and lawn mower tires. They also do auto repair, such as brakes, shocks/struts, alignments and oil changes. They offer free tire rotations for the life of the tires when purchasing 4 tires. No appointments are needed for any service! Our customers are always given an estimated time of completion so they know when to expect their vehicle to be done. Moore Tires also has loaner cars for their customers to get to work after drop off or customers are welcome to sit and wait in the comfortable waiting area with free coffee, water and snacks! Come See Us! Mon-Fri 7am-6pm; Sat 7am-4pm.

• Appliances • Mattresses SM-ST1631945

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

2400 N. Locust • Sterling • 815-625-8529

Second Place Frary Lumber

Third Place County Market

Third Place R.P. Lumber

Honorable Mention Snyder Pharmacy

Honorable Mention Kitzman’s Lumber

Favorite Lumber Company

Favorite Massage/ Day Spa

First Place Menards

First Place Lotus Wellness Spa & Salon

Thank You for Voting us your #1 Favorite

CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Your Wellness & Beauty Haven

Pictured Front Row Left to Right: Natalie Ehredt, Marissa Johnson, Jerrie Garcia, Rachelle Yore, Brittany Dykstra. Back Row left to right: Tasha Sheley, Jeni Allen, Melissa Ellefsen, Deanna Handel. Not pictured Rhianna Frey and Mike Garcia.

us #1 Salon & Massage Day Spa!

be free

chiropractic

OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY

HOURS VARY • APPOINTMENTS RECOMMENDED • WALK INS WELCOME! 501 WEST 2ND ST., ROCK FALLS, IL

815.632.3433

BRADLEY R. FREE, DC

(815) 625-3733 | 2202 Locust St., Sterling BeFreeChiro.com

SM-ST1631942

Thank You

For Voting us as one of your Favorite Contractors In The Sauk Valley

All Of Us At

Hawkins - Cassens

Insurance Agency, LLC Would Like To Thank You For

Voting Us As One Of Your Favorite Independent Insurance Agency’s. We thank you for your conﬁdence.

www.hci-agency.com

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

www.terrywolfconstruction.com 30125 E. Thome Road, Rock Falls • 815-626-2788

2321 E. Lincolnway, Sterling, IL

815-625-7474

• February 22, 2019

in the Sauk Valley

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Second Place Liquor “n” Wine, Inc.

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Second Place Statik Hair Studio & Day Spa Third Place Extreme Hair & Day Spa Honorable Mention Massage Works

Favorite Nursing Home/ Assisted Living

Honorable Mention The Meadows of Franklin Grove

Favorite Pet Store/ Product First Place PetSmart - Sterling Second Place Pet Supplies Plus

First Place Heritage Woods of Sterling

Third Place Tuff Dog Bakery

Second Place Heritage Square

Honorable Mention Shark’s Cove - Sterling

Third Place Parkway Center

Favorite Pharmacy

First Place You in Photos by Nanc

Second Place The Medicine Shoppe

Second Place Persona Studio

Third Place CVS

Third Place Onsite Photography

Honorable Mention Snyder Pharmacy

Honorable Mention Photos by Cindy

Favorite Photographer

Favorite Community Event

The volunteer Board of Directors is excited to bring you the 55th Annual Dixon Petunia Festival. The Festival is proud to be voted the number one community event! We provide fun for all ages including entertainment, a carnival, food, and family fun!

3913 E. Lincolnway • Sterling 815-625-9028

THANKS SAUK VALLEY For voting us one of your favorite places to purchase

SM-ST1631711

First Place Walgreens

Tires, M Ti Men’s ’ Fashions F hi & Sporting Goods

Thank You For Voting Us Your #1 Garage Door Installer!

1st Serving the Sauk Valley Area for Nearly 40 Years!

2704 Locust St, Sterling • 815-626-8911 www.garagedoorspecialists1.com

The Mission of the Dixon Petunia Festival Corporation is to foster a spirit of teamwork among the business community, civic and religious organizations, community leaders, and private citizens to help promote pride, tourism, growth, and development for the Dixon area. The aim of the Petunia Festival is to provide the community with an amazing festival with various events activities which appeal to all age groups. Every year we strive to try something new to bring fun to the community around the Fourth of July. In 2019, we will bring some special events as we celebrate our emerald anniversary of the Dixon Petunia Festival! Events can be found on our website, www.petuniafestival.org, and on our social media accounts: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Favorite Radio Station

River Country 101.7 FM, 1460 S. College Avenue, Dixon, IL 61021 815-288-3341 First Licensed 1992. www.rivercountry1017.com (1,025,566 Page Views 222,442 users 1/31/19 Google Analytics) WRCV-FM is owned by NRG-MEDIA, LLC. We are experts in creating radio commercials that build brands and drive consumer engagement aka commercial art. Listener engagement is enhanced by our interactive digital media platform of multiple websites, streaming capabilities, podcasts, and direct marketing. The three NRG stations ( WRCV-101.7 FM; WSEY-95.7 FM; WIXN 1460 AM ) are all part of the emergency broadcast system, and are the Sauk Valley area’s emergencies and natural disasters stations. We carry the play by play broadcasts of numerous local high school sports teams on the Radio and via streaming. The overlaid signal areas are available to over 500,000 persons and 8,862 farms. MAINSTREAM COUNTRY is the largest and most popular 24-hour music network in America. On River Country 101.7 you will hear Today’s Country and Your All-Time Favorites, with LIVE professional personalities like Sam Ramirez, and fun contests On Air On Line On Demand.

Favorite Place to Buy Flooring ®

First Place Ken Nelson Auto Group

First Place Brothers Flooring

Second Place Mobil 1 Lube Express

Second Place Menards

Third Place Jiffy Lube

Third Place Boss Carpet One Floor & Home

Honorable Mention Kunes Country Auto Group (all locations)

Honorable Mention Carpetland USA

Favorite Place to Buy Crafts

Second Place Rustic Roots

Thank You -- Voted Favorite Place to Buy Sporting Goods!

20% OFF

Regular Price Of Any One Item In Stock With Coupon

Couponvalidonthousandsofitems.Exclusionsmaybemandatedbythemanufacturers. *Excludes: Firearms, ammunition, licenses, select Asics, Nike, Perception, & TaylorMade product. ENO hammocks, Fitbit, GoPro, Lego, Merrell footwear, Nerf, Oakley, Ray-Ban, Spyder, TenPoint, Terrain Blinds, Under Armour, Yeti, Columbia, Garmin, tennis balls, Nike practice golf balls (single & bulk), Titleist balls, bats over $149.98, KL Pro 120 boat /trailer, augers, shanties, bulk deer corn, GPS/fish finders, motors, marine batteries, motorized vehicles, gift cards. Not valid for online purchases. Cannot be used with another offer, coupon, current sale or clearance item. Only one coupon per item. One coupon per customer. Not valid on previous purchases. Void if copied. Not for resale.

Coupon Expires March 9, 2019. 19-P-201

Third Place Golden Key Gifts Honorable Mention Bushel Basket Candle Co.

Favorite Furniture & Appliance Store

Thank You Sauk Valley!

BUILDING OUR REPUTATION WITH

Knie Appliance & TV, Inc./ Ashley Furniture HomeStore When Chuck and Eileen Knie opened for business in Polo in 1946, they began what today has become a mainstay in the Sauk Valley area. In 1973, the Knie family expanded into Sterling. Today, three generations of the Knie family operate the family business including the Newly remodeled Knie Ashley Superstore which offers appliances, UHD TVs, and mattresses in addition to fine furniture. The Knie family formula for success: offer quality name brand products, backed by their own in- house service department and the guaranteed lowest possible prices in the area – from Rockford to the Quad Cities! No more traveling from store to store and town to town! Just one-stop shop at Knies! Check them out online at http://www.ShopKnies.com

Frary Lumber

A division of

Where It’s Easier To Shop

www.frarylumber.com 2707 West Lincolnway, Sterling, IL (888) 742-7240 (815)-625-7240 Open: M-F 7am-5:30pm, Sat. 7am-2pm

412 Washington St, Prophetstown, IL (800) 637-0357 (815) 537-5151 Open: M-F 7am-5pm, Sat. 7am-Noon

915 2nd St., Fulton, IL (815) 589-3100 Open: M-F 7am-5pm, Sat. 7am-Noon

• February 22, 2019

First Place JoAnn Fabrics

Northland Mall Sterling, IL 61081 (815) 564-0091

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Favorite Place for an Oil Change

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Favorite Place to Buy Garden Supplies

First Place Pam’s Hallmark

Second Place Kroger

First Place Menards

Second Place Dollar Tree

Third Place Oliver’s Corner Market

Second Place Anne’s Garden Center

Third Place Walmart

Honorable Mention County Market

Third Place Selmi’s

Honorable Mention Walgreens

Favorite Place to Buy Men’s Fashions

Honorable Mention Walmart

Favorite Place to Buy Meat

Favorite Place to Buy Greeting Cards

First Place The Butcher Shop

First Place Kohl’s

Thank You For Voting Us Your Favorite Place To Take Kids in the Sauk Valley.

Thank You Sauk Valley

for choosing us as one of your favorite Gift Stores and Place to Buy Crafts.

         

Favorite Place to buy Meat

The Butcher Shop has been operating for about a year and a half. Dale Pfundstein, a cattle farmer north of Sterling, and his livestock nutritionist had a dream to bring a meat market back into this area, so here we are! The Butcher Shop is a fresh meat market specializing in locally raised beef, pork, chicken, seafood, soups, and ready-to-eat meals. We carry a wide variety of products including gift boxes, gift certificates, and Tuff Dog Bakery dog treats! This Spring, The Butcher Shop is expanding to a second location: 2501 E. Lincolnway in Sterling, Illinois. Our business hours are: Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 6:00pm and Saturday/Sunday from 9:00am to 3:00pm. We would like to thank you for voting us “Favorite Place to Buy Meat”! We appreciate all of our customers, and thank you for your business! The Butcher Shop, 3309 W. Rock Falls, Rd, Rock Falls, IL 815-632-3931 web: butchershopllc.com e-mail: thebutchershopsrf@gmail.com

1347 N Galena Ave, Dixon • (815) 677-9428 hello@myplayvillagekids.com Open W-F 10-7pm • Sat-Sun 9-12pm • Afternoon hours vary Call about reserving your party today!

$1.00 OFF

WITH THIS

COUPON

1347 N Galena Ave, Dixon (815) 677-9428

Thank You for Voting Us One of Your Favorite Bars and Place to get a Burger!

½ off any appetizer!

EXPERIENCE BIG TASTE IN AN UNFORGETTABLE PLACE! Lunch Specials: Tuesdays & Thursdays: $5.99 Pulled Pork Baskets Wednesdays & Fridays: $5.99 Salads and Wrapss Grill Hours: Daily 11am-9pm

Dine in only. 1 coupon per table. Expire 3-1-19

MANY U EN NEW M

Martini’s Every Thursday!

Bar Hours: ! Sun-Thurs 11am-10pm, ITEMS Fri & Sat 11am-1am thefactorypubngrub.com • 103 West 3rd Street | Sterling, IL 61081 | 815-548-9550

Third Place Modern Shoe

Honorable Mention Rigler’s Sports Supply

Third Place Dixon Tire Center

Third Place Dunham’s Sports

Honorable Mention Shopko

Favorite Place to Buy Tires

Honorable Mention Tire Tracks

Honorable Mention Walmart

Favorite Place to Buy Sporting Goods

First Place Moore Tires

Favorite Place To Buy Women’s Fashions

Favorite Place to Buy Shoes

First Place Dunham’s Sports

Second Place Blain’s Farm & Fleet

First Place Kohl’s

Second Place Blain’s Farm & Fleet

Second Place Shoe Sensation

Third Place Walmart

For Voting Us As The

#1 Bakery

SM-ST1631552

Aurelio’s Bake Shop 517 Locust Street, Sterling, IL 815-626-CAKE (2253)

Thank you for voting us as one of your Favorite Places for Chicken! See us on Facebook!

219 W. River St. • Dixon, IL • 815-288-4991 SM-ST1631624

Thank you for making us a favorite!

Grilled to Perfection

PRIME QUARTER STEAK HOUSE • “Grill Your Own” Tonight!

Favorite Banquet Facility, Favorite Place for a First Date, Favorite Place for Chicken, Favorite Place for Seafood, Favorite Place for Margaritas

Candlelight Inn

The Candlelight Inn opened in June of 1967 under the ownership of Chuck Sisson, Lyman Prescott and Bob Prescott. After a short period, Chuck and Lyman left the business, although Lyman continued to own the building. The business thrived for more than 20 years, especially after the invention of Chicken George in the early 1970s. In the mid 1980s Bob and his wife, Jan, decided that their next move should be to buy the building the restaurant occupied at the 100 block of West Third. However, Lyman Prescott did not want to sell. Thus, they looked at other options and settled on a location on the north end of Sterling, 2907 N. Locust. The building actually had been a barn at one time but was remodeled into a restaurant over the years and, before the Prescotts’ purchase in 1989, it was a restaurant known as “The Country Squire.” They moved the business, remodeled and added on. Their customers followed them, and the Candlelight grew. In 2000, their son Matthew came home and took over the responsibility and ownership of the Sterling location. He saw a need to continue building the business, and in 2004 he built the Candlelight Inn at 2200 First Avenue, Rock Falls. The new location brought a whole new look and attitude to the Candlelight Inn name. In 2010 he leased the restaurant and marina in Clinton, Iowa, at 511 Riverview Drive.

Of The Best

2019 2016

Readers’ Choice

AWARDS

...mmm...Steak! 250 Backbone Rd. • Princeton, IL • 815-872-3500 • primequarter.com (Minutes from I-80) Open Monday thru Friday for dinner 5 pm - 10 pm • Lounge opens at 4 pm Open Saturday for dinner 4 pm - 10 pm, Open Sunday for dinner 4 pm - 9 pm • Lounge opens at 3:30 pm

• February 22, 2019

Saulk Valley

Gracias

& n e k ic h C B.B.Y. Carry Out

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Second Place Blain’s Farm & Fleet

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Second Place Maurices

Third Place Extreme Hair & Day Spa

Third Place UOI

Honorable Mention My Nails Salon

Honorable Mention Christopher & Banks

Favorite Place to Purchase Eyeglasses

Honorable Mention Shopko

Favorite Plumber

First Place L.A. Tan

First Place Lance’s Plumbing

Second Place Vegas Sun - Dixon

Second Place MO-ST Plumbing

Third Place Extreme Hair & Day Spa

Favorite Place to get a Manicure or Pedicure

First Place All About Eyes

First Place Le Nails

Second Place Discount Eyewear

Third Place Sauk Valley Plumbing

Second Place K Nails & Spa

Third Place Dr. Krenz - Vision Source

Honorable Mention Schmitt Plumbing

9 E 3rd St Sterling. Illinois 61081 (815) 626-6003 Thank You for Voting Us One of Your Favorite Banquet Facilities!

Champs Banquet Venue

Seating 150 Outside Patio Outside Food Service Available Full Service Bar

Email CHAMPS.BANQUETVENUE@YAHOO.COM

Favorite Law Firm

Mertes & Mertes, P.C. of Sterling The Law Firm of Mertes & Mertes, P.C. concentrates in areas of personal injury, medical negligence, workers compensation, divorce/child custody, and criminal cases. Our attorneys are highly skilled and experienced in courtroom litigation. Our attorneys are in the courtroom nearly every day that court is in session. Mertes & Mertes, P.C. 4015 E. Lincolnway, Suite D Sterling, IL 61081 815-626-1500 7 1/2 years www.mertesandmertes.com Mon-Fri 8:30am to 5:00pm and Sat 8:30am to 12:00pm

Favorite Tanning Salon

Honorable Mention Splash

Favorite Tax Preparer First Place H & R Block

THANK YOU

Sauk Valley for Voting Us Your Favorite Hardware Store! 424 Locust St. 1112 1st Ave Sterling Rock Falls 815-625-2040 815-625-2587 815-625-2041

Second Place Joel Downie

Honorable Mention John Berge

First Place Destinations Travel Services Second Place Travel Consultants Third Place Beach Gal Travel Services

Grab a

Cone! Meusel’s

118 E. 7th St Dixon, IL

Thank you for voting us as Sauk Valley ’s

#1 Plumber 8 years running!

303 S. Mason (Rt. 52) Amboy, IL

Your local printing and graphic design specialist!

Contact Kris Sands Today! 815-632-6470

Favorite Place for an Oil Change

Ken Nelson Auto Group is proud to have served the Sauk valley area for 54 years! In 1965, Ken Nelson Buick was opened in Dixon and we have been lucky to grow ever since. Between 1965 and 1985 the Auto Group acquired the Buick-Pontiac, Opel, GMC, Nissan and AMC-Jeep-Eagle Renault franchises. In the 1990s the group acquired Oldsmobile, Toyota, Cadillac and Chrysler Plymouth Dodge franchises. Today, Ken Nelson Auto Group offers 10 new car franchises an a great selection of quality pre-owned vehicles. Our service technicians are factory trained and certified. We are lucky to have several coworkers that have been with our organization for upwards of 25 years: Chuck Stephenitch, Wholesaler/Inventory Management: 49 years Denny Bellows, sales professional: 48 years Rick Curia, Owner: 38 years Todd Ogan, Service Technician: 35 years Ron Stephenitch, Sales Professional: 34 years Sherry Law, Business Manager: 33 Steven Fassler, Service Technician: 30 years Pam Ehredt, Office Manager: 29 years Cheryl Blum, Payroll: 29 years Jeremy John, Service Director: 27 years

SM-ST1631961

Business Cards • Envelopes • Letterhead Carbonless Invoices • Full-Color Printing

• Remodeling & Repair • New Construction • In-Floor Heating Systems

815-622-0463 99 Penrose Rd., Sterling, IL 61081

Favorite Place to buy Sporting Goods Dunham’s Sports of Sterling Our roots go back to 1937 in West Bloomfield, MI, when a small shop called Dunham’s Bait & Tackle opened. Over the years with hard work, great customer service and attention to detail, we have grown into a full line sporting goods chain serving customers in 22 states, from Nebraska to Maryland. Dunham’s Sports is the Midwest’s largest sporting goods chain with over 230 stores nationally offering a full line of traditional sporting goods and athletic equipment, as well as a wide variety of active and casual sports apparel. Our motto is Big Names … Low Prices. That is what we do everyday, give our customers the choice of the brand names they want at the lowest prices possible. You will find Hot Deals and Sport Values at prices that may be too low to advertise. Get in the game at Dunham’s Sports, where our big names bring you in and our low prices bring you back! We are open Monday - Saturday 9am-9pm and Sunday 11am - 5pm.

• February 22, 2019

SM-ST1630924

DAIRY DELITE

Thank you for voting us one of your favorite places for ice cream, places for a milkshake, and places for desert.

READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS | Sauk Valley Media

Third Place Wiemken’s Tax Service

Favorite Travel Agency

Sauk Valley Media • February 22, 2019

| READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US YOUR #1 HEATING/COOLING CONTRACTOR IN THE SAUK VALLEY. 1245 N Galena Ave, Dixon 815-284-2052

LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR, STATE FARM IS THERE.®

For your insurance and ﬁnancial needs, see one of these State Farm Agents

THANK YOU FOR MAKING US #1! Chris Hammitt 815 N. Galena Dixon, IL 61021 Bus: 815-288-8050 chris@chrishammitt.com

Jack Spencer 313 First Avenue Rock Falls, IL 61071 Bus:815-625-5100 jack.spencer.bzn@statefarm.com

Mike Sprague 1712 E. 4th Street Sterling, IL 61081 Bus:815-626-0000 mike.sprague.tfsx@statefarm.com

FREE ESTIMATES

ON ANY NEW OR REPLACEMENT FURNACE OR AIR CONDITIONER!

24 HOUR - 7 DAYS A WEEK SERVICE AVAILABLE ON ALL MAKES OF FURNACES & AIR CONDITIONERS

Providing Insurance and Financial Services statefarm.com® State Farm Insurance Companies • Home Ofﬁces: Bloomngton, Illinois P026041

7/05