|
May is here, and so is a fresh season of community action and exciting updates! We’re thrilled to share what’s happening this month with We Are Oglesby from volunteer opportunities to exciting announcements, there are plenty of ways to get involved and stay connected.
Tag Day Volunteers Needed – May 17
We’re looking for friendly faces to help with Tag Day from 8:00 a.m. to noon at the Oglesby 4 Corners. If you can lend a hand for even part of the morning, email president@weareoglesby.net to sign up!
Memorial Park Cleanup – May 18 at 9 a.m.
Grab your gloves and join us for some spring cleaning at Memorial Park! No sign-up needed, just show up and pitch in to help keep our parks beautiful.
Holy Family School Awarded $1,000 Grant
We’re proud to announce that Holy Family is the recipient of our $1,000 Community Grant! We’re excited to support their continued commitment to local youth and education.
| | |
Lehigh Park Stage Landscaping
We’ve finalized the plans and plant list for landscaping around the Lehigh Park Stage, a big step toward making this space thrive for future performances and events. We will be landscaping after our Tag Day is complete on 5/17. Please contact president@weareoglesby.net if you would like to help!
Member Webpage Updates
If you're a We Are Oglesby member, please take a moment to review your page on our website and send any updates to president@weareoglesby.net. Let’s keep things fresh and accurate!
Thank You to Our Summer Fun Fest Kickoff Sponsors!
A huge thank-you to our generous sponsors for helping launch this year’s Summer Fun Fest:
Knobelsdorff, H&S Contracting, Bulldogs Bar, Oglesby Casey’s, Edward Jones – Daryk Brayton, Financial Advisor, and Surf Internet. We couldn’t do it without your support!
Winter Event & Parade – Join the Planning Committee!
Love our Winter Event and Parade? Have ideas to make it even better? We’re forming the planning committee and would love to hear from YOU. Get involved and help shape one of Oglesby’s favorite traditions!
| | Bi-Monthly Member Spotlights | | |
Derek Kessinger: State Farm Insurance Agent
Meet Derek Kessinger – Your Local State Farm Insurance Agent
Derek Kessinger is proud to serve the Illinois Valley as your local State Farm Insurance Agent, bringing a strong commitment to personalized service and community values. With three years of experience at State Farm, Derek has built his agency in Oglesby, Illinois, with a passion for helping individuals and families protect what matters most, whether it's their home, car, or financial future. Originally from Chatsworth, Derek understands the importance of hard work, trust, and relationships, and he’s excited to bring those values to the community he now calls home.
A graduate of Illinois State University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, Derek’s early career included broadcasting dirt late model racing with Flo Sports, a role that sharpened his storytelling skills and taught him the power of connection. Today, those same skills help him connect with clients on a personal level, making insurance approachable and understandable. Outside the office, Derek is a devoted family man and an active grade school basketball coach. He and his wife, Colleen, are raising their three children, Sophie, Tommy, and Chloe, with the same sense of community and dedication that drives his professional life. Whether you’re a new homeowner, starting a family, or planning for the future, Derek is here to help guide you every step of the way.
Connect with Derek Kessinger: State Farm Insurance Agent:
| | |
Portraits-N-More
Portraits-N-More: Capturing the Essence of the Illinois Valley
At Portraits-N-More, owner and lead photographer Doug Dellinger brings over 15 years of professional experience to every session. Specializing in custom-designed portraiture for high school seniors, children, families, and commercial clients, Doug is dedicated to creating high-quality, personalized images that reflect each client's unique story. His approach emphasizes collaboration, ensuring that every portrait session is tailored to the individual's vision and personality.
Beyond traditional photography, Doug offers aerial photography services as an FAA-licensed commercial drone operator, providing valuable perspectives for real estate, building inspections, and property mapping. His commitment to excellence extends to education; since 2016, he has been teaching photography at Illinois Valley Community College. As a 16-year member of the Professional Photographers of America, Doug upholds the highest standards in his craft. His philosophy centers on integrity, hard work, and the belief that "if it's worth photographing, it's worth printing," ensuring that clients receive timeless pieces to cherish for years to come.
Connect with Portraits-N-More:
| | |
Ducky Derby Tickets are On Sale Now!
$10 per duck or 5 for $40
$1,000 WORTH OF PRIZES! Prizes for first duck, last duck & lucky duck!
To purchase, Venmo @WeAreOglesby or text (815) 202-6433.
All proceeds to benefit We Are Oglesby.
| | | | |
American Legion Post #237
410 Clark Street - Oglesby
Taco Night
Wednesday, May 14
4:30-7:00pm
Carry out or dine in
Call (815) 883-3214
Steak Fry
Thursday, May 22
5:00-9:00pm
| | |
Archway Tap
730 N Columbia Street - Oglesby
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
Martini Flights
Thursdays in May 6-8 pm
| | |
CortiLeno's
101 E Walnut Street - Oglesby
Tim & Wally
Saturday, May 24, 8-11pm
Joey Figgiani
Saturday, May 31, 7-10pm
Cortileno's Roll'In 25
Saturday, June 7, Starts at 6pm
ATV & Golf Cart Show at 6 PM
Regal Beagle begins at 7 PM
Awards given at 7:30 PM
Tim & Wally
Saturday, June 14, 9pm-Midnight
Cortileno's 2025 Golf Outing benefiting the Oglesby Fire Dept.
Saturday, June 21, 2025 10 AM
Senica's Oak Ridge Golf Course
Blind Reality
Saturday, June 28, 2025 8-11 PM
| | | | | |
Deer Park Golf Club
100 Deer Park Ln - Oglesby
Check Out What's Happening this Month!
Click the image or HERE to view the full size flyer.
| | | | |
Oglesby Elks Lodge #2360
800 E Walnut Street - Oglesby
Eighth Grade Ball
Friday May 2 starting at 7pm at the Elks clubrooms.
Complete with DJ, refreshments, photo booth, and a party environment.
Expect around 150 graduates all dressed to the "nines".
Queen of Hearts every Thurday
Drawing starts at 7pm
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.
| | |
Oglesby Public Library
111 S Woodland Avenue - Oglesby
As a reminder, beginning May 1, 2025, the library will be temporarily close on Fridays.
The library is closed Monday, May 26, 2025, in observance of Memorial Day.
Second Annual Library Road Trip
Continues through May 10
Pick up your road trip passport at the Oglesby Library. Vist as many libraries as you would like and have your passport stamped. Return the passport to your home library no later than May 19 to enter the prize drawing.
Toddler Time
Thursdays, May 8, 15, & 22, 10:15am
Let's Create for Adults
Tuesday, May 13, 6:00pm
Registration required.
Social Hour with Elaine
Thursday, May 15, 2-3pm
Relax at the library while visiting with others. Bring a favorite pastime such as crocheting, word puzzles, cards, or coloring.
No registration required.
Youth Pollinator and Seed Planting Program with LaSalle Couty 4-H and Master Gardeners
Thursday, May 15, 5-6:30pm
Youth will learn about planting pollinators from seeds, how to read a seed packet, and enjoy designing and planting a plant pot. Participants will be guided to journal their experiences in a nature journal as they observe the germination process at home.
For youth ages 9-19. Registration required HERE or call the library at 815-883-3619.
Monday Night Book Club
Monday, May 19, 6:30pm
Discussing "Just for the Summer" by Abby Jimenez
OSF Health Screening
Wednesday, May 28, 9-11:30am
No registration or fasting required. Blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose screenings
| | | | | |
Starved Rock Lodge
1 Lodge Lane - Oglesby
Check Out What's Happening this Month!
Click the image or HERE to view the full size flyer.
| |
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 Backs the Pistol Shrimp & Launches Exclusive VIP Bulldogs Club!
Bulldogs Bar in Oglesby is proud to return as a sponsor of the Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp for another exciting season. Known for its strong community presence and lively atmosphere, Bulldogs continues to support local events and teams that bring people together.
In addition to their ongoing sponsorship, Bulldogs Bar has announced the launch of The Bulldogs Club, a VIP membership program designed to reward loyal patrons with exclusive perks. Members will enjoy monthly drink specials, member-only coupons and discounts, birthday surprises, early access to merchandise and event updates, and even special “pawtio” benefits for their four-legged friends.
Those interested in joining can sign up online HERE and become part of the growing Bulldogs community. As the bar puts it, “Let’s make it official — you’re one of us now.”
| |
Daryk Brayton Celebrates 10 Years!
Daryk Brayton is celebrating a major milestone this year, 10 years with Edward Jones and 34 years in the financial services industry this June! Since joining Edward Jones in 2015, Brayton has continued to serve the Illinois Valley community with personalized financial strategies focused on retirement planning, education savings, and tax-efficient investing. His decades of experience and client-first approach have made him a trusted resource for families and individuals alike. In addition to his professional work, Brayton remains active in the community through the Rotary Club, the Husky Program for underprivileged students, and the Illinois Valley Community College Foundation Board, a testament to his long-standing commitment to both service and financial guidance.
| |
Oglesby Elks Hosts 42nd Annual 8th Grade Ball for Area Schools
The Oglesby Elks Lodge welcomed eighth-grade students from across the region for the 42nd Annual 8th Grade Ball on Friday, May 2nd. The event brought together approximately 160 students from small area schools including Oglesby Washington, Marquette Academy, Deer Park, Waltham, Peru Catholic, Tonica, Oglesby Holy Family, LaSalle Trinity Catholic, Ottawa, Lostant, Dimmick, and Grand Ridge.
Designed to foster connection and familiarity among students before they enter high school, the ball featured a night of dancing, food, a live DJ, and refreshments. Students enjoyed the opportunity to meet peers from neighboring communities in a fun and welcoming environment.
Started over four decades ago, the 8th Grade Ball continues to be a tradition that encourages unity among students from smaller schools. It’s just one of many youth-focused events the Oglesby Elks hosts each year as part of their ongoing commitment to community involvement.
| | First Responder Highlight | | 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. | | |
Want to join WAO?
Online sign up now available HERE!
| | | |
Would you like to volunteer with us?
Non-members are welcome to volunteer too.
Email president@weareoglesby.net if you are interested in volunteering!
| | | | |
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.
| | | | | |
