What I Have Learned: National leaders need Sauk Valley’s common courtesy

Hellmich: Most people in the Sauk Valley value the spirit of collegiality and use it to find common ground with people of varying political, social, and religious views to improve our communities.
5 things to do in Whiteside County

Breakfast with Jesus begins at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24, at Albany United Methodist Church, and the Symphony of Lights at Eagle Point Park is open to visitors through Dec. 30.
Dixon McDonald’s closed after Tuesday grease fire; can reopen after cleanup, health department approval

The Dixon City Fire Department, Dixon Rural Fire Department and Advance EMS responded Tuesday, Dec. 23, to a report of a grill fire at McDonald’s, 207 N. Galena Ave., Dixon.
Sterling Municipal Band concert set for Jan. 9 at New Life Lutheran Church

The concert will begin at 7 p.m. Jan. 9 and is presented by the city of Sterling. It will feature pieces from many genres, including traditional and contemporary band works, jazz and popular music.
Wagon rides carry visitors through Rock Falls’ Centennial Park

Wagon rides were offered Friday, Dec. 19, through the Holiday Lights Display in Rock Falls.
2025 Friday Night Drive Defensive Player of the Year: Brother Rice’s Kameron McGee

Brother Rice sophomore defensive lineman Kameron McGee, a five-star prospect who recorded 21 TFLs and 10.5 sacks while guiding the Crusaders to an IHSA 7A state championship this season, is the 2025 Friday Night Drive Defensive Player
2025 Friday Night Drive Offensive Player of the Year: Montini’s Israel Abrams

Montini junior quarterback Israel Abrams, who threw for over 4,000 yards and 40 touchdowns and led the Broncos to a 14-0 record and the Class 4A state championship, is the 2025 Friday Night Drive Offensive Player of
Friday Night Drive’s 2025 Team of the Year

Here is the 2025 Friday Night Drive Team of the Year.
5 Things to Do: Tribute to Trans-Siberian Orchestra in Dixon, last weekend for Holiday Lights in Rock Falls

The Prophecy will pay tribute to Trans-Siberian Orchestra at The Dixon Theatre on Saturday, Dec. 27.
Ogle County assessor: New state law makes changes to Senior Assessment Freeze Eligibility
Senate Bill 642 was signed into law, creating Public Act 104-045, which increases the “maximum income limitation” for the Low-Income Senior Citizen Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption.