The year 2016 was one for the record books. Great, non-stop action in the Village of Rockton and surrounding communities had a definite impact on this year’s action! 

Last January, Rockton Sanctuary Spa featured local artists in an evening full of fun. In February students at Hononegah High School hosted a talent show. Proceeds of the show went toward funding the Jazz Choir trip to St. Louis where they performed in late April. The talent show winners, best overall, Charles Meyers who played at the Church by the Side of the Road Christmas Candlelight Service; Most Creative-Matthew Hull, Christian Schoon, and Noah Baker and Most Technically Skilled was Emily Schultz. Band members traveled to Florida to march and play at Disneyworld. Stephen Mack Middle School student, Benjamin Golter received honors as the youngest Boy Scout to earn an Eagle Scout rank at age 13.

Pastor Doug Johnson officially retired as Pastor of Prince of Peace Church. Interim Pastor Cheryl Coffman took the reins and has proven to be a popular new addition to the church family!

A new Fun Onez singles group implemented the perfect way to meet others. Meetings and outings were held year round. The next opportunity for area singles to take part is on Sunday, Jan. 8. Playing cards or board games at Prince of Peace Church is on the docket. If you qualify, join in the fun from 1:30-4 p.m.! Bring yourself and a snack to share with the group. Contact Daphne McNames with any questions at (815) 610-2056.

Veterans were recognized on many different levels. Vet’s Roll hosted 200 Veterans who took a four-day trip to Washington D.C. Monuments, War Memorials and other meaningful sights brought back memories and honored all who have served or are serving our country. On May 25 a very meaningful homecoming welcomed all Veteran’s back to the area at the Eclipse Center in Beloit. As Veterans stepped off of buses, tears rolled and great applause arose. Salutes and other signs of respect were seen everywhere!

Year round, the Rockton American Legion Post #332 remains active in support of all Veterans. Bibles and flags are donated by the Legion in memory of Veterans and to assist families who have lost a loved one. The Ladies Auxiliary hosted a Veteran’s Day dinner honoring all who serve our nation. The Ladies Auxiliary extends beyond the doors of the Legion building. They visit the LaSalle Nursing Home a few times a year, where they pay special visits to elderly Veteran‘s and bring them gifts. Part of the Auxiliary also includes programs for youth and family. One example is sending Jessica Comstock and Olivia Krull to Illini State. The Old Stone Church had a full house at this year’s Veteran’s Day dinner. Volunteers gathered at the Old Stone Church to pack and deliver donated Thanksgiving baskets to those in need. A portion of money rose from the Harmony for Hunger Concert and generous donations from the community and local churches helped to keep the Old Stone Church Food Pantry stocked. This help touch an increased number of local families in 2016.       

The Rockton Sanctuary Spa showed support of all who serve, including Police, Fire and all Veterans.

Members of the Rockton Fire and Police Departments and Macktown Lion’s Club jumped into the icy waters of Lake Olson in early March. The reason behind ‘Freezin’ for a Reason’ was to help Special Olympics through the Polar Plunge.’ Together with hundreds of participants, over $113,000 was raised.

Hononegah High School’s Hope Foundation brought power to the people with a 70’s themed ‘Touch of Spring.’ Money raised is used toward educational needs at Hononegah. March also kicked off the OSD Festival.

Jordan’s Fishing Club was introduced. Bird Fest drew nice crowds. The first Thursday in May produced a very meaningful National Day of Prayer held at the Village Green Park. In June, the Rockton Lions Club donated money to allow a shelter to be built at the Rockton Athletic Fields. Tammy Verestrate who is the current President of the Rockton Lion’s Club was voted Lion of the Year.

In August, school started back up again. The Purple and Gold Festival at Hononegah High School recognized all sports, and new and standing staff members. Dance teams and cheer squads performed.  Princess Hononegah performed her first routine of the year. Under the direction of Coach Brian Zimmerman, the Hononegah Indians made it to the playoffs where an upset occurred. 

The Rock River Sweep returned, with many volunteers sprucing up a stretch along the Rock River.

October saw loads of fun. Churches and the Rockton American Legion hosted Trunk or Treat events. Thousands of little ones and their families attended the 2016 Main St. Trick or Treat event. For the first time a Black Light Dance happened at the Greater Rockton Community Center. The Black light Dance failed to catch on with the overall public.

The Stateline Chamber of Commerce Fun Run was organized by Lindsey Zahnizer. Participants got into the spirit by wearing neon or 80’s style clothing and accessories. Due to the collapse of the Hononegah Dome last December, the Ro Ro Expo was moved to All World Machinery. Rockton’s Christmas Walk created the perfect prelude to the Christmas season! Hononegah Woman’s Club hosted Hula Dancers, dog trainer Ms. Christy and winners of the 2016 Camperships and Scholarships. The HWC team of four came in third at last February’s Trivia night at Stephen Mack Middle School.

Fourth of July was celebrated in style in Shirland with a special touch. Fire trucks and the Pink Heels rolled from the parade over to the home of John Harris who had cancer. Everyone signed the fire truck and came out in a show of support. Unfortunately, Mr. Harris passed away just days later. Rockton Police welcomed Nicole Papworth and Michael Johnson to the force. On Nov. 6, the Hononegah Gridiron Awards recognized players who made a true difference during the season.

As we move into the year 2017, I wish blessings on every reader!

 
 
 
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