Sauk Valley Thank you, Everyday Heroes Contest 2026

The Illinois House Education Committee has passed the House version of Senate Bill 2427, which would require Illinois schools to adopt policies by the 2027-28 school year that ban the use of wireless devices, including cellphones.

Newman junior sprinter Elaina Allen is the Sauk Valley Athlete of the Week, presented by Loescher Heating and Air Conditioning. She is off to a good start and hopes to place even higher at state track this season. 'Elaina is a fierce competitor.'

Dixon native Isaiah Roby, a forward for the Westchester Knicks, received the 2025-26 NBA G League Community Assist Award for his impact and outstanding service in the Westchester County community throughout the season. 'My commitment to giving back comes from my own upbringing.'

Owen Mandrell and Ethan Mathews both hit grand slams for Rock Falls in a win at E-P. Dixon baseball is 4-0, Sterling fell 9-8 at Rock Island, Dixon's Taylor Frost pitched a complete game win over Amboy and more in Monday's Sauk Valley roundup.

Ken Nelson Auto Group is partnering with the Chevrolet Youth Baseball & Softball program to provide new equipment and a monetary donation to Al Morrison Baseball in Dixon.

Here is a preview look at each baseball team across the Sauk Valley coverage area as the 2026 season is underway.

Experience will be everything for Dixon this spring, and the Dukes have it in spades. After losing just one senior off last year’s 3A regional title team, Dixon now looks to pick up where it left off.

Rock River Madness, with many trail and road options, is scheduled for May 2 at The Facility in Dixon.

The Next Picture Show in Dixon will be the venue for an April 16 concert and photo art show featuring the Christian Dillingham Jazz Quartet and photographer Jason Patrick Miller.