March Newsletter 2025

As spring approaches, We Are Oglesby is in full swing, planning for an exciting year ahead! We’re actively working on all of our 2025 fundraising events, with this year’s efforts focused on making a lasting impact in our community. Proceeds from our upcoming fundraisers will help fund our $1,000 community grant, support our goal of revitalizing the LeHigh Park stage, and allow us to expand the beloved Oglesby Winter Parade. We’re grateful for the continued support of our community and look forward to making these projects a reality together!

We also want to take a moment to celebrate some incredible local athletes! Congratulations to the Oglesby Bulldogs 8th grade boys’ basketball team on their impressive 3rd place finish at State! Your hard work and dedication have made our community proud. Additionally, a big round of applause to Holy Family’s 7th grade volleyball team for securing the regional title, what an amazing accomplishment! Keep up the great work!

Announcements

We are still looking to fill 3 more spots!

Our new WAO Member Mixers offer a fantastic opportunity for members to highlight their business, connect with the community, and expand their network in a more interactive setting.


Don’t miss this chance to build relationships and showcase what you do best! For more details, click here. To sign up, click here!

Apply Here!

Come see us at the Health and Safety Fair at Oglesby Lincoln School!

Check We Are Oglesby's Facebook Page next week for a list of locations to purchase tickets!

Bi-Monthly Member Spotlights

Deer Park Golf Club


For over 120 years, Deer Park Golf Club has been a staple in the Starved Rock Region, offering a rich blend of golf and community. Originally established in 1904 as Deer Park Country Club, it operated as a private club for more than a century, serving generations of golfers and social gatherings. Nestled among some of Illinois’ most scenic destinations, including Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks, this course has long been a favorite for both locals and visitors.

Now under new ownership and rebranded as Deer Park Golf Club, we’re excited to welcome both members and the public to experience the course’s timeless charm. Join us and be part of over 120 years of tradition!


Connect with Deer Park Golf Club:

Web  Facebook  Instagram  X

The Rootbeer Stand


For nearly 70 years, The Rootbeer Stand has been a beloved local landmark, serving up classic flavors and cherished memories since 1955. From 1959 to 2023, the Moore family shaped its legacy, building a tradition of quality, hospitality, and nostalgia that made it a true community staple.

Now under new ownership, they are honored to carry on those long-standing traditions while also bringing fresh and exciting updates. Their outdoor car hop service keeps the old-school charm alive, while modern conveniences like DoorDash make it easier than ever to enjoy your favorites. As a family-friendly, community-focused business, The Rootbeer Stand loves giving back, whether it's sponsoring local sports teams or hosting fundraisers for Holy Family School and other local causes. They are proud to continue the story of The Rootbeer Stand and can't wait to make even more memories with you!


Connect with The Rootbeer Stand:

Web  Facebook  Instagram

Upcoming WAO Events

Interested in Becoming A Sponsor? Click Here for More Information!

Member Corner

Member Specials & Events

American Legion Post #237

410 Clark Street - Oglesby


Taco Night

Wednesday, March 12

4:30-7:00pm

Carry out or dine in

Call (815) 883-3214


Steak Fry

Thursday, March 27

5:00-9:00pm

Archway Tap

730 N Columbia Street - Oglesby



Now serving food on Mondays starting at 5 PM.


Tuesday Special

Happy Hour 4-6pm

$2.50 domestic bottles

$2 Busch Lights


Friday Special

Happy Hour 4-6pm

$2.50 domestic bottles


Bulldogs Bar

201 E Walnut Street - Oglesby


Every Thursday

Happy Hour 5-7 pm

$2.00 Domestics


Hat Burning Event 

Sunday, March 16, 1-4pm

Signup required, do it HERE!


Oglesby Bars Eggstravaganza

Saturday, April 5, 12-8pm


River Road Trio

Saturday, April 12, 7-10pm

CortiLeno's

101 E Walnut Street - Oglesby


Tim and Wally

Sunday, March 23, 3-6 PM


Lent Menu

Every Friday during Lent

Deer Park Golf Club

100 Deer Park Ln - Oglesby


Join Us For A Night to Die For!

Saturday, March 22nd 6:00-9:00PM


This thrilling dinner event is open to Deer Park members (and their spouses, of course!) and members’ guests. It will be an exciting night with friends, where you will work with trained actors to solve a “whodunnit.” Be ready for surprises, as you may get wrapped up in the case in unexpected ways!

A buffet-style dinner will be served.

Purchase your tickets through eventbrite HERE, or in-person at the Club. Seating is capped, register ASAP!

Garzanelli's Supper Club

750 N Columbia Street - Oglesby


Prime Rib Special

March 8 & March 22

Oglesby Elks Lodge #2360

800 E Walnut St - Oglesby


Bingo every Sunday!

Doors open at 2:00pm and starts at 4:00pm. Mini games are played between 2 and 4.


There is an Abe game and Dual Dab game that both have a jackpot. Also, the last game Coverall is now a guarantee $500 game! 


Kitchen is open from 2 until break.

Bingo info and jackpots posted on the Oglesby Elks Facebook page every week.

Starved Rock Lodge

1 Lodge Ln - Oglesby


Check Out What's Happening this Month!


Click the image or HERE to view the full size flyer.

Zamin Insurance & Tax Prep

105 W Walnut St - Oglesby


Insurance & Tax Prep is ready to help this tax season! New clients can enjoy $20 off with the coupon! Plus, you can securely upload and send your tax documents using their convenient mobile app. Download it now to get started: https://taxestogo.com/App/Download/96749.


Refer a friend to get their taxes done at Zamin's, and you'll be entered into a drawing to win a 55-inch TV or a $100 Garzanelli's gift card!

Member News

Looking for the Perfect Spot to Start or Relocate Your Business?


The west side of Zamin Insurance & Tax Preparation's building is available for rent! This 600 sq. ft. space is in a prime location right on the main street in Oglesby, offering great visibility and foot traffic. Whether you're launching a new venture or moving your current business, this is an excellent opportunity! For more details or to schedule a viewing, call 815-883-3514.

Bulldogs Bar Unveils New Branding


Bulldogs has been keeping a secret, and it's time to share it! Join them for the IVAC After Hours & Rebrand Launch on March 13 from 5-7 PM. Enjoy the same great vibes with a fresh new look and energy—plus delicious appetizers catered by Garzanelli’s Supper Club. Don’t miss the big reveal!

Illinois Offers Up to $245K in Grants for Small Businesses

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is offering a new Small Business Capital and Infrastructure Grant Program, providing $10,000 to up to $245,000 for eligible small businesses to fund capital improvements. With $10 million in total funding available, the program prioritizes socially and economically disadvantaged businesses (SEDI) and very small businesses (VSBs) with fewer than 10 employees. Grant funds can be used for building upgrades, site improvements, equipment purchases, and facility expansions.


Applications are open from January 7 to April 7, 2025, and businesses must be pre-qualified before applying. This grant presents a significant opportunity for small businesses in Oglesby and surrounding areas to invest in long-term growth.


For more details and application submission, visit the DCEO website or contact CEO.OE3Grant@illinois.gov.

First Responder Highlight

2025 Corporate Members

2025 Non Profit Members

Oglesby Elks

Oglesby Public Library

Oglesby American Legion

If you're a member of We Are Oglesby and would like your monthly events, important information, or specials featured in our newsletter, please email the details to marketing@weareoglesby.net.

Community Events

City of Oglesby

Oglesby Bars

Click Here for Event Details

Want to join WAO?

Online sign up now available HERE!

Volunteer Opportunities

Would you like to volunteer with us?


Non-members are welcome to volunteer too.


Sign Up Here

Tag Day 2023

Have a Suggestion?


We want to hear from you!

Your suggestions are important to help us continue to grow and revitalize Oglesby.


Click here to submit your suggestion!

We Are Oglesby is a non-profit organization made of

volunteer residents and business owners.


Our mission is community improvements and economic growth.



Our vision is to revitalize Oglesby, highlight existing businesses, welcome new businesses, and to host and promote events.

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