The Lee County Republicans and Sauk Valley Freedom Fighters conducted a rally for party candidates on Wednesday at the Dixon VFW. Those in attendance during the first part of the rally were, from left, organizer and Palmyra committeeperson Brett Nicklaus; state representative candidate in the 74th District Bradley J. Fritts; U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood who is seeking a seat in the newly configured 16th District; Clay Whelan, candidate for Lee County sheriff; and Peter McClanathan, candidate for a vacancy for the 15th judicial circuit. Other speakers scheduled to appear were state constitutional officer candidates Dan Brady for secretary of state, Shannon Teresi for comptroller and Tom Demmer for treasurer. (Troy Taylor)