ROCHELLE – The Rochelle Fire Social Organization held its 103rd Firemen’s Ball on March 14 at the Flight Deck hangar, drawing more than 300 attendees for an evening with a 1980s theme featuring music from DJ Mark Charvat and the band The Breakfast Club, themed activities, and a silent auction supported by over 75 local businesses. The event serves as a primary fundraiser for the RTHS scholarship program, community sponsorships, and other local initiatives. Years of service pins were presented to several members, including Matt Moore for 10 years, Matt Bolhous for 20, Dale Lippold for 25, Gary Morgan for 35, and Chief Galen Cardott for 35.
Tyler Carls received the Pat Kasmar Award for exceptional service, recognizing his contributions to training programs and his leadership roles since joining the Rochelle and Ogle-Lee Fire Departments in 2009.
Other milestone recognitions included Cody “Deebs” Bakker and Javier Salinas for five years, Beth Smith and Austin Gillis for 10 years, and Lt. Josh Lewis and Capt. Zach Prewett for 20 years of service.
