Playing at professional baseball's highest level was a feat achieved by five people born in Lee County: Lou Bevilacqua of Nelson, George Bristow of Paw Paw, Betty Degner of Amboy, Leroy Herrmann of Steward and Frank Shaughnessy of Amboy.

Amboy’s own little Cookie Jar blends creativity, comfort and a sense of fun in every batch its owner bakes, proving dessert can be playful and welcoming, with just the right amount of over-the-top.

The owner of a Savanna shop has found a new station in life: A fan of the handmade and the homemade, and he’s using his carpentry skills and creativity to find new uses for old items.

Tradition meets innovation at a Forreston business as custom cabinetry becomes a deeply personal experience. From kitchen drawers to Navy installations, Danlee Wood Products blends craftsmanship, comfort and function with made-to-fit pieces.

The owners of a Sterling business have spent decades not only providing people with a cool place to kick back and relax, but helping them expand their pool of knowledge when they’re just starting to get their feet wet.

Sam Tucibat transforms scenes of nature into works of unique photography art through digital composition, blending it into imagination of striking images that reimagine the area.

Helping to bring one's designs on a quilt to reality is a talent that a Pearl City business owner has done all throughout the nation.

Kaelyn Carstens is only 13, but she has quite the imagination to start a small business. Her colorful crochet designs have been a frequent sight at local farmers markets, and it’s been quite a learning experience for her as well.

Harold's Furniture owner Becky Hunter has worked at the Rock Falls store for 40 years, and a celebration is planned for Nov. 1n at the store.