News briefs

Oxford studeent earns degree

ADELPHI, Md. -- Levi Steven Cope, of Oxford, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and psychology from University of Maryland Global Campus in summer 2025.

Cope was one of 3,800 students worldwide who earned degrees from UMGC in the summer 2025 term.

Fireside Winery hosts Sip & Shop

MARENGO — Fireside Winery will host Sip & Shop Holiday Market, a festive community event inviting guests to sip, shop and celebrate the season while supporting a great cause.

The market will take place Thursday, Dec. 4 from 6-8:30 p.m. in the winery’s Cellar space and will feature a variety of local vendors offering handmade goods, gifts and holiday décor.

Guests can enjoy a glass of wine while browsing a unique selection of locally made products.

All vendor booth fees will be donated to Safe Haven of Iowa County, a nonprofit animal rescue organization dedicated to helping homeless pets find loving homes. Representatives from Safe Haven will be on-site to share more about their mission, connect with the community, and introduce adoptable furry friends looking for their forever families.

Fireside Winery is located at 1755 P Avenue, rural Marengo. Admission is free.

Spirit Card Program donates to schools

First State Bank’s Spirit Debit Card Program generated more than $17,000 in donations to local schools, including BGM and Montezuma.

In the spirit card program, members can choose debit cards featuring their schools’ logo and colors. Each time a card is used, First State Bank donates a portion of the transaction back to the corresponding school district, the bank said in a press release. These funds help support classrooms, extracurricular programs, and a variety of educational needs.