News Briefs: seasonal events coming to Stateline

As  this season of thanks approaches,  the Rockton PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) is reaching out to feed hungry people in Rockton and surrounding communities. On Saturday, Nov. 12, the public is invited to “fill the bus” with donations of non-perishable foods to be given to the Old Stone Church Food Pantry. Some of the items needed: instant potatoes, frozen turkey, cranberry sauce, desserts, canned vegetables, stuffing, gravy, and other goods.

Items can be dropped off at the Rockton Grade School parking lot, 1050 E Union St, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Volunteers will be on site to help load the bus, which is being donated by First Student. At the heart of the day's event is to make Thanksgiving a bit brighter for those in our community.

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National First Responders Day was recognized on Oct. 28. Every day local paramedics, firefighters, emergency technicians and police officers are on call 24 hours a day.

Rockton Fire Chief Kirk Wilson is now reporting on recent action at every second Village of Rockton meeting.

He covers the number of calls for incidents each in a certain time period within each month. As of the last meeting he attended, he stated, “Year to date there were 1,097 calls for fire protection. Our total fire loss was $158,900. Fire drills were done as needed.”

Both building and vehicle damage were taken into account.

The 2022 Rockton Fire Department open house event on Oct. 9 was a huge success, with over 200 people in attendance. “We gave away a lot of hot dogs and we extended the time of the event,” Wilson added.

Village President John Peterson and Chief Hollinger received special thanks for attending the funeral of Battalion Chief Chuck Stenger.

Trustee Justin York gives a police report at every Village of Rockton meeting. He lists the number of tickets, warnings, accidents, criminal arrests and traffic stops.

Rockton Police Chief Matt Hollinger works with residents who express concerns to resolve issues.

Veterans Day is on November 11. Please express gratitude and respect to all veterans for their service to our country.

In observance of Veterans Day, the Old Stone Church is offering a full turkey dinner that will be available via carryout only on Nov. 12. Reserve your meal now by calling 815-624-6212.

The Stateline Chamber invites those who love to take chances to the 2022 Casino Night, set to happen on Friday evening, Nov. 11. Fun rolls out from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Beloit Club. Chances to win and exclusive specialty cocktails are only part of the offerings of this event. Dress in formal wear and enjoy a night out. Tickets are limited but can be bought at casino-night.eventbrite.com.

50 North invites everyone of the age of 50 and above to hear a presentation given by Jim McAffee  on the history of Rockton and the surrounding area. Join the group for what is certain to be an interesting time of historical education on Nov. 15 from 1-3 p.m. at the Rockton Community Centre.

South Beloit will be having a tree lighting on Dec. 2 at Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop Street. This year marks the second annual of this event which includes s'mores and hot chocolate, a luminary path, crafts and Christmas carols sung by a choir. Get in full swing of the holiday spirit from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

The perfect opportunity to get a jump start on early Christmas shopping is right around the corner. What is known as "Christmas at the Cabin'' is returning on a smaller scale at 14310 Dorr Road. Deneen Andrews and Holly Fisher of “The Basket Case” always offer ready-made theme baskets at excellent prices, which can be found in a sunroom inside the home. Tastefully Simple, and Barb with Stampin' UP goods offer more choices. Come on over on Friday, Dec. 2 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.

As local towns prepare to decorate for the Christmas season, watch for fresh new decorations in Rockton and Roscoe!