By Jeff Helfrich, Managing Editor

ROCHELLE — On Thursday, the Rochelle Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Dinner at the the City of Rochelle and Rochelle Municipal Utilities’ southside campus. 

The event saw remarks by Chamber Executive Director Tricia Herrera and Rochelle Mayor John Bearrows. 11 awards were presented to local businesses and organizations. 

“I am proud of the community I grew up in and now serve,” Herrera said. “Rochelle is an amazing community and the residents are a shining example of hardworking, midwestern values. Cheers to another great year at the Rochelle Chamber.”

A surprise award kicked off the night, with Ralfie’s BBQ and Catering and The 302 receiving the Community Impact Award. The businesses are owned by Ralf and Tricia Herrera.

“What makes them so special is the many ways they give back,” Chamber Board President Kari Andrist said. “They’re always willing to step up and support the youth of this community by sponsoring a team, being part of a fundraiser, or donating a dinner before a big game.”

The Retailer of the Year Award was presented to Rochelle Ace Hardware.

“They set themselves apart from the big box stores by providing excellent customer service,” Chamber Board Vice President Haley Brill said. “You’re always welcomed by a friendly smile. They support youth sports in town by carrying a full line of Hubs apparel and participate in Chamber programs.”

Chamber Board Member Matt Gerard presented the Family Business of the Year Award to Audyn Boutique, which is located downtown and run by the Hulthen family.

“Their beautiful clothing selection lines the window of their downtown storefront,” Gerard said. “They use their beautiful photography and expertise in social media to promote their sophisticated styles. They’ve made themselves a part of the community, while not being afraid to reach out to other communities to bring shoppers to Rochelle and their storefront.”

Chamber Board Member Ben Dougherty presented the Entrepreneur of the Year Award to Erin Bacon of Destiny Studios.

“She uses her creative thinking to uplift others, spark collaboration and create a lasting impact, beyond just the bottom line,” Dougherty said. “She’s behind the scenes at countless community events donating her time, heart and talents to make them shine.”

City Council Member Rosaelia Arteaga presented the Restaurant of the Year Award to Los 3 Molcajetes.

“This family is very giving and humble,” Arteaga said. “They’re always willing to help with something, even if it’s last minute. They always contribute and they’re always willing to participate in anything. This is the true meaning of the American dream to come here as a dishwasher and become a restaurant owner.

Chamber Board Member Kris Wexell presented Roiel Scoop Ice Cream with the Small Business of the Year Award.

“They’ve taken a quaint little downtown space and made it a place for families in our community and visitors,” Wexell said. “They support Rochelle Township High School athletic programs and rescue animals where possible and have made themselves a part of our community.”

Chamber Board Treasurer Brandon Svela presented the Welcome to Rochelle Award to  Rochelle Book Hub, the city’s newest bookstore located inside Cypress House.

“Her love for reading was a catalyst to starting her own business,” Svela said. “She has retail sales and has started book clubs, reaching out to those that share her passion for literature. She covers all genres of books and reaches out to the youth of the community to engage with them.”

Chamber Board Member Ashley Bick presented the Community Partner of the Year award to the Rochelle Area Community Foundation, which recently marked 20 years and $1.3 million in philanthropic work in the community.

“The community has embraced RACF’s philanthropic mission and employers and families make contributions and honor loved ones,” Bick said. “They’re a group that’s fueled by giving back to the local community that results in a wide impact and support staying local.”

Andrist presented O’Rorke Construction with the Legacy Award, as its owners recently retired at marked the end of the business’s long and storied run in the community.

“We’re fortunate to celebrate a business that has maintained a high standing over the years,” Andrist said. “What started in 1987 as a family business stayed true to its principles of hard work, dedication, attention to detail, and craftsmanship.”

City of Rochelle GIS Coordinator Casey Heuer was presented with the Chamber Delegate of the Year Award by Christa McGrath.

“We like to say that chamber delegates serve as the face of the chamber, but sometimes, we serve as the heart of it too,” McGrath said. “Casey is no exception to that. I am continually impressed with her dedication and willingness to always help with whatever is needed.”

Herrera presented her Director’s Award to the City of Rochelle Street Department. 

“They work tirelessly behind the scenes of our community without proper thanks or praise,” Herrera said. “They work in extreme temperatures and are assigned crazy tasks as part of their daily routine. We’re proud to recognize them for the work they put in for our residents.”

Bearrows made closing remarks at the end of the event and thanked Rochelle’s business community for its work over the past year.

“The Rochelle Chamber of Commerce serves as a cornerstone for local businesses,” Bearrows said. “It fosters economic growth and strengthens our community spirit. It has unwavering support for entrepreneurs large and small. When our businesses prosper, the entire community reaps the rewards.”

Lucie Devier, a French-born tennis professional and former Division 1 standout at the University of Mississippi, is launching an ambitious youth tennis program called Rising Rackets aimed at cultivating professional-level athletes.

Leveraging her experience as a D1 athlete and her leadership of youth programs at the Goose Creek Tennis Club, Devier, alongside the General Manager and Director of Raquet Sports Alexa Bortles, is poised to transform the local tennis landscape and nurture the next generation of Mississippi tennis talent.

“I strive to make tennis fun for young children while equipping them with fundamental

skills,” Devier said. “I believe we have an unprecedented opportunity to invest in young Mississippi players.”

Born in Étréchy, France, she was a member of the Ole Miss tennis team and graduated in May of 2024. She has since been working as a tennis pro at the Goose Creek Tennis Club. She is experienced in teaching all ages and levels and holds an 18U French coaching certification. She is a French National Champion in doubles and reached the quarterfinals in the national singles tournament.

Earlier this year, Devier launched the Rising Rackets program. It’s available for youth ages 3 to 12 and inspired by European developmental principles. This progression system incorporates the individualism of tennis in a fun environment where players have the chance to level up and celebrate their achievements at a graduation ceremony every 6-12 weeks.

The larger vision for Goose Creek Tennis is for the Rising Rackets program to feed into an elite-level Junior Tennis Academy currently led by Alexa Bortles who wants to make Mississippi a nationally recognized contender.

This will include a multifaceted player development and training program that will cover sports psychology, nutrition, fitness, visual film study, and preventative and restorative body care.

Registration for the summer program is now open. You do not have to be a member to participate.

Find out more by visiting https://www.goosecreekclub.com/risingrackets or call 662-380-5505.

The three-day raffle grossed $57,625 CAD ($41,327 USD) with net funds benefitting Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation. A winner of 50% of the jackpot was identified and chose to remain anonymous. The raffle, available to fans in-venue and online to all residents throughout the province of Quebec, was the first to be held during an MMA event at the arena.

“We were thrilled to partner with UFC for the 50/50 raffle at UFC 315,” said Geneviève Paquette, General Manager of the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation. “Thanks to the generous support of UFC, the spectators, and a dedicated team of volunteers, these funds will help support vital programs for underprivileged youth. The Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation’s flagship BLEU BLANC BOUGE program continues to inspire thousands of children across Quebec, promoting healthy, active lifestyles.” 

Not sure about how to fill your keiki’s time during the summer months? From general summer fun activities, to research and sports camps, there’s a program for every interest available this summer. Here is a list of summer school programs, organized by island, that are still accepting students.

Oahu:

Junior Lifeguard Program

Dates: One-week program, 13 options between June 2-July 25

Ages: 11-17

Cost: Free

Location: Ala Moana, Makaha, Pokai Bay, Nanakuli, Ko Olina, Waimanalo Beach Park, Kalama Beach Park, and Kokololio

Registration: Opens May 1, sign up here   

Learn more: Click here

Summer Fun Program

Dates: June 9-July 25

Ages: 6-13

Cost: Free-$125

Location: 63 sites across Oahu

Registration: Opens between May 12-16, depending on location, sign up here   

Learn more: Click here

Honolulu Summer Film Camp

Dates: June 2-6

Ages: 13-17, with an emphasis on engaging Native Hawaiian and Micronesian youth

Cost: Free

Location: CreativeSpace Studio at Entrepreneurs Sandbox in Kakaako

Registration: Apply by May 23

Learn more: Click here

HIDOE’s Summer School

Dates: Varies by school

Ages: Grades K-12

Cost: Free 

Location: Check your local school for details

Learn more: Click here

Hawaii Technology Academy

Dates: June 9-July 11 (5-week course) or June 9-27 (3-week course)

Ages: Grades 9-12

Cost: $190 (5-week course) or $95 (3-week course) 

Location: Online

Registration: Apply by May 23

Learn more: Click here

Summer Research Institute

Dates: June 9-August 1

Ages: Rising high school juniors to college undergraduates

Cost: Free

Location: Students on Oahu, Hawaii Island, Kauai, Maui and Molokai can access programming at CTAHR facilities on their home island

Registration: Apply by May 23 

Learn more: Click here

Kauai:

Keiki Lifeguard Program 

Dates: One-week program, 6 options between June 9-July 25

Ages: 8-11, who can swim and run 50 yards nonstop

Cost: Free

Location: Salt Pond Beach, Hanalei Pavilion, and Kalapaki Beach 

Registration: Opens May 1, sign up here   

Learn more: Click here

Junior Lifeguard Program

Dates: One-week program, 6 options between June 9-July 25

Ages: 12-17, who can swim and run 100 yards nonstop

Cost: Free

Location: Salt Pond Beach, Hanalei Pavilion, and Kalapaki Beach 

Registration: Opens May 1, sign up here   

Learn more: Click here

Summer Fun Program

Dates: June 16-July 25

Ages: 5-11

Cost: $75

Location: Kapaa, Lihue, Kalaheo, Hanapepe, Kekaha neighborhood centers, Anahola Clubhouse, and Koloa Elementary School

Registration: Opens May 15, sign up here   

Learn more: Click here

Summer Fun Swim Lessons

Dates: June 3-27 (Session 1) and July 1-25 (Session 2)

Ages: 5-11

Cost: Free

Location: Waimea and Kapaa pools

Registration: Opens May 24 at 3 p.m.

Learn more: Click here and scroll down to “Swim Class Information”

Summer Fun Golf Program

Dates: 3 sessions, between June 16-July25

Ages: 7-15

Cost: $35, students required to have a putter, 5 iron, 7 iron, 9 iron, wedge, driver, and golf bag

Location: Wailua Golf Course

Registration: Opens June 9, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Wailua Golf Pro Shop

Learn more: Click here and scroll down to “Summer Fun Golf Program”

Youth Basketball Clinic

Dates: May 22

Ages: Kids currently in grades 5-8

Cost: Free

Location: Kapaa High School Gym

Registration: Opens May 16 at 8 a.m., sign up here   

Kahili Preserve Summer Internship Program

Dates: July 1-24

Ages: 16-18, limited to 5 students

Cost: $1,000 stipend awarded to each student upon completion of the program

Location: Hawaii Land Trust’s Kahili Beach Preserve and nearby partner sites

Registration: Applications currently being accepted

Learn more: Click here

Summer Research Institute

Dates: June 9-August 1

Ages: Rising high school juniors to college undergraduates

Cost: Free

Location: Students on Oahu, Hawaii Island, Kauai, Maui and Molokai can access programming at CTAHR facilities on their home island

Registration: Apply by May 23 

Learn more: Click here

Hawaii Island:

Summer Fun Program

Dates: June 9-July 18

Ages: 16 programs for elementary-aged children, four programs for teenagers, and two specialized enrichment programs

Cost: $40-$250, depending on the program 

Location: At sites across the island

Registration: Varies by location

Learn more: Click here

Summer Research Institute

Dates: June 9-August 1

Ages: Rising high school juniors to college undergraduates

Cost: Free

Location: Students on Oahu, Hawaii Island, Kauai, Maui and Molokai can access programming at CTAHR facilities on their home island

Registration: Apply by May 23 

Learn more: Click here

Lanai: 

Youth Basketball League

Dates: June 9-July 25

Ages: 7-8

Cost: Free

Location: Lanai Park Complex Gymnasium

Registration: Between May 12-30

Learn more: Click here

Project Hokulani-CLD TEAMS Summer Camp

Dates: July 14 – 18

Ages: Grades 6-12

Cost: Free

Location: Lanai High and Elementary School

Registration: Apply by June 25

Learn more: Click here

Summer Research Institute

Dates: June 9-August 1

Ages: Rising high school juniors to college undergraduates

Cost: Free

Location: Students on Oahu, Hawaii Island, Kauai, Maui and Molokai can access programming at CTAHR facilities on their home island

Registration: Apply by May 23 

Learn more: Click here

Maui and Molokai: 

Summer Research Institute

Dates: June 9-August 1

Ages: Rising high school juniors to college undergraduates

Cost: Free

Location: Students on Oahu, Hawaii Island, Kauai, Maui and Molokai can access programming at CTAHR facilities on their home island

Registration: Apply by May 23 

Learn more: Click here

Michelle Broder Van Dyke covers the Hawaiian Islands for Spectrum News Hawaii. Email her at michelle.brodervandyke@charter.com.

DULUTH —Duluth Marshall freshman Chloe Johnson was one of 52 players nationwide to be selected to participate in the 2025 USA Basketball Women’s U16 National Team trials in Colorado Springs, Colorado, beginning Wednesday.

The final 12-player roster will be announced on May 26, with the team competing in the FIBA U16 Women’s AmeriCup held June 16-22 in Irapuato, Mexico.

Johnson garnered 2025 DNT All-Area Player of the Year honors and picked up her second-career first-team All-State nomination this past season after averaging 28.9 points per game and 6.5 assists while shooting 57% from the field. Defensively, she averaged four steals and one block per outing.

In three seasons at the varsity level, the 6-foot guard has already eclipsed the 2,000-point mark.

Johnson was one of 26 players from the class of 2028 to be invited to the tryouts and one of only three from Minnesota, as she’s joined by 6-foot-1 Minnetonka forward Arianna Peterson and 6-foot-4 center Logan Miller of Andover.

Johnson is currently competing for the All Iowa Attack 17U team of the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) against the nation’s top players. She’s averaging 8.6 points and 3.6 assists through five games.

Our newsroom occasionally reports stories under a byline of “staff.” Often, the “staff” byline is used when rewriting basic news briefs that originate from official sources, such as a city press release about a road closure, and which require little or no reporting. At times, this byline is used when a news story includes numerous authors or when the story is formed by aggregating previously reported news from various sources. If outside sources are used, it is noted within the story.