LOCAL NEWS
Plainfield East HS Science Olympiad students achieve record-breaking state performance See Page 3:
Invasive carp trap installed at Rock Run Rookery Preserve
The new trap is expected to increase carp removals from Rock Run Rookery, a key monitoring site in the effort to stop the fish’s upstream spread.
A one-way trap has been installed in a channel that links the Forest Preserve District’s Rock Run Rookery Preserve lake to the Des Plaines River as part of the battle to keep invasive carp from reaching Lake Michigan.
Invasive carp, commonly known as Asian carp, were first detected in the 84-acre former quarry in 2012. The state has contracted with commercial fishing companies to harvest and reduce carp densities in the lake since 2012 to reduce their numbers moving upstream.
Last week, a one-way trap was installed as part of a pilot program to increase those harvest numbers. The trap will funnel fish toward 9-inch-by-36-inch passages. The passages consist of gateway “fingers” made of flexible plastic that allow fish to swim in only one direction — they can enter but can’t get out. The netting is also arranged so fish can’t jump over it.
pilot project. (Forest Preserve photo by Glenn P. Knoblock)
Ventura passes measure requiring retailers to provide cash or credit refunds for eligible returns
Legislation would require retailers to offer cash or original-payment refunds for eligible returned merchandise instead of only store credit
Continuing her work to protect consumers, State Senator Rachel Ventura led a measure that would prevent retailers from requiring consumers to accept store credit instead of a refund through the Senate Wednesday.
“Illinois consumers shouldn’t be forced into store credit when they return an unused product,” said Ventura (D-Joliet).
“If a retailer accepts a return, customers deserve the option to receive their money back.
This measure protects working families, increases transparency and helps ensure businesses treat consumers fairly.”
House Bill 4044 would prohibit retail establishments from limiting refunds on returns of unopened or unused consumer products to store credit. Instead, retailers would be required to offer another form of refund, such as cash or reimbursement to the original payment method.
Under the measure, consumers returning eligible unused products would have the right to receive a refund through the original payment method or another non-store-credit option.
The bill would not require retailers to
accept a return they suspect of fraud, nor would it apply to products that have been opened or used.
(Continued on page 14 see ‘TURTLE’)
(Continued from page 1, ‘ROCK’)
Transmitter tracking
The trap installation was overseen by James Lamer, director of the Illinois River Biological Station, and University of Illinois graduate student Cody Hagloch in conjunction with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The one-way trapping system is a pilot project that will be evaluated throughout the year for its effectiveness.
The nets extend about three feet below the surface, explained Hagloch, who also works as a technician for the Illinois River Biological Station. He said he will monitor the installation daily for a couple of weeks.
Carp outfitted with transmitters will be tracked through receivers to aid in evaluating the trap.
“We can determine if fish are coming in and if they are going back out,” Lamer said.
If the transmitters and the one-way trap work as intended, it will be easier for commercial companies to harvest carp at Rock Run Rookery in greater numbers. The harvested fish are used for fertilizer or the bait industry.
The invasive carp category includes bighead, silver, grass and black carp. Thirty-nine percent of the invasive carp
harvested from the Dresden Island Lock and Dam region, which includes the Joliet area, come from Rock Run Rookery, Lamer said.
Lamer and Hagloch also plant to monitor whether native fish species are being kept in the lake by the trap. Adjustments could be made in future years to the trap to allow native fish to return to the river. The trap also could be set up at strategic simtes of the year when invasive carp are more likely to enter the lake.
Kayaks, canoes and small boats can still use the channel to enter the lake, but boaters will need to lift their motors to pass over the netting, and paddlers will need to glide over it, Lamer said. Signs posted at the lake entry from the channel will read: “Caution: Net in water. Trim motor.”
Perfect invaders
Lamer said the carp move into the low-current lake to rest and feed, gaining weight before leaving and heading upstream again.
After leaving the lake, the carp encounter the Brandon Road Lock and Dam, Lockport Lock and Dam, and an electric dispersal barrier on the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal in Romeoville, all of which block further upstream movement.
(Continued on page 14 see ‘ROCK’)
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State Senator Rachel Ventura speaking on the Senate floor.
JOLIET DISTRICT 86 RECEIVES OUTSTANDING FINANCIAL REPORTING AWARD
Award highlights District 86’s long-standing commitment to accountability, accuracy and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars
The Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) is thrilled to announce that Joliet Public Schools District 86, (Illinois), has been awarded the prestigious Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting (COE).
This honor recognizes school districts that uphold the highest standards of financial reporting and transparency.
The school district earned the Certificate of Excellence for its exemplary Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ending in June 30, 2025.
This marks the 41st consecutive year
Joliet Public Schools District 86 has received this award.
“I extend my sincere congratulations and appreciation to our entire team for their outstanding teamwork and dedication in earning the ASBO International Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 41st consecutive year,” said Joliet Public Schools District 86 Assistant Superintendent for Business and Financial Services Dr. Matthew Wilkinson, “Their remarkable achievement reflects their commitment to accuracy, transparency, and excellence in all that they do.”
“For over half a century, ASBO International’s Certificate of Excel -
lence in Financial Reporting has been the gold standard for promoting and recognizing excellence in financial transparency,” said Jim Rowan, CAE, SFO, Executive Director of ASBO International. “Clear and accurate financial reporting is crucial for engaging school communities and building their trust.
Districts that earn the COE have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to these principles.”
Participation in the COE program highlights a school district’s dedication to financial accountability. Submitted ACFRs are rigorously reviewed by a panel of experienced financial professionals, who provide
constructive feedback to further enhance the quality of future reports.
Districts that meet the program’s stringent requirements are awarded the Certificate of Excellence, a distinction that also supports bond rating and continuing bond disclosure processes. ASBO International’s Certificate of Excellence is sponsored by Strategic Partner, American Fidelity.
Members of the Joliet Public Schools
District 86 Business Department include: Deborah Brom, Bookkeeper; Julie Budz, Payroll Clerk; Dawn Duria, Temporary Payroll Clerk; Kimberly Lewis Williams, Director of Grants; Miriam Marshall, Payroll Clerk; Dr. Matthew Wilkinson, Assistant Superintendent for Business & Financial Services; Angelica Rush, Administrative Secretary; Shawna Taylor, Payroll Coordinator; and Jennifer Westling, Accounts Payable/Purchasing.
DOWNERS GROVE PARK DISTRICT
Why It Pays to Take Time Off from Work
Paid time off is a valuable benefit offered by many employers that allows workers to step away from their jobs while continuing to receive their regular pay. Yet despite having access to vacation days, many employees fail to use all of the time they have earned.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly 90 percent of private-sector workers receive paid time off. However, a study by Glassdoor found that only 23 percent of Americans take all of their available vacation days. Even more surprising, more than half of those who do go on vacation report checking emails, taking calls or completing work tasks while away.
In today’s fast-paced work environment, employees often feel pressure to stay connected and available. Tight deadlines, heavy workloads and the desire to advance professionally can make taking time off seem like a luxury rather than a necessity. Some workers worry that projects will fall behind in their absence, while others fear being perceived as less committed to their jobs. However, consistently postponing vacations or leaving paid time off unused can have negative consequences. Taking regular breaks from work is not only beneficial for personal well-being, but it can also improve performance, creativity and long-term career success.
Recharge Your Batteries
One of the most important benefits of taking time off is the opportunity to rest and recharge. Continuous work without meaningful breaks can lead to mental and physical exhaustion. Over time, stress accumulates and can contribute to burnout, which often manifests as fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating and reduced job satisfaction.
A vacation or even a few days away from work can provide much-needed relief from daily pressures. By stepping away from work responsibilities, employees can reset their minds, catch up on sleep and return feeling refreshed. According to experts, time away from routine stressors often helps people gain perspective on workplace challenges and develop healthier ways to manage stress when they return.
mind has time to wander. Constant focus on work tasks can limit opportunities for new ideas and fresh perspectives. Taking breaks allows the brain to process information differently, often leading to creative insights that might not emerge during a busy workday.
Research from Stanford University and the University of California found that people can become significantly more creative after engaging in activities such as walking or taking breaks from focused work. Vacations take this concept a step further by exposing individuals to new places, experiences and cultures. Whether exploring a new city, hiking a scenic trail or simply spending time in nature, these experiences can inspire innovative thinking and help employees approach problems from a different angle.
Boost Productivity
At first glance, taking time off may seem like it would reduce productivity. In reality, the opposite is often true. Employees who regularly take vacations tend to return to work with renewed energy and focus. Rested workers are often better able to concentrate, make decisions and complete tasks efficiently.
Organizations that encourage employees to use their vacation time frequently benefit as well. Studies have shown that workplaces that support work-life balance often experience higher employee engagement, lower turnover rates and improved morale. Employees who feel valued and supported are more likely to contribute positively to their organizations and perform at a higher level.
Improve Physical Health
The benefits of time off extend beyond mental wellness. Chronic stress has been linked to a variety of health concerns, including high blood pressure, heart disease and weakened immune function. Taking time away from work can help lower stress levels and give the body an opportunity to recover.
Vacations often encourage healthier habits as well. People may spend more time outdoors, exercise, enjoy recreational activities or simply relax. Even short breaks can help improve sleep quality and reduce the physical symptoms associated with long-term stress. Prioritizing rest
today can contribute to better health outcomes in the future.
Recognize Your Worth
Using paid time off is also an important reminder that employees have earned the opportunity to rest. Vacation days are part of a compensation package, just like salary and benefits. Choosing not to use them may unintentionally send the message that constant availability is expected.
Taking time off helps establish healthy boundaries between work and personal life. It reinforces the idea that employees are more than their jobs and that personal well-being matters. By using vacation time, workers acknowledge their own value and demonstrate the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Strengthen Relationships
Busy work schedules can make it difficult to spend quality time with family and friends. Over time, work obligations can crowd out opportunities to connect with the people who matter most. Taking time off creates space for meaningful interactions and shared experiences.
Whether it is a family vacation, a weekend getaway with friends or simply spending uninterrupted time at home, these moments can strengthen relationships and create
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Stepping away from the office can reduce stress, boost creativity, improve health and help employees return to work more focused and productive. (Continued on page 13 see ‘VOTE’)
lasting memories. Strong social connections are closely linked to happiness, emotional well-being and overall life satisfaction.
Gain a Fresh Perspective
Time away from work can also provide clarity about personal and professional goals. Stepping outside of daily routines allows people to reflect on what is working in their lives and what may need to change. Many individuals return from vacations with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation.
A change of scenery can help workers see challenges more objectively and identify opportunities for growth. Rather than viewing time off as a disruption, it can be seen as an investment in future success.
Make Time Off a Priority
Paid time off is more than just a workplace perk—it is an important tool for maintaining health, happiness and productivity. Vacations and breaks help employees recharge, spark creativity, improve physical wellness, strengthen relationships and return to work with renewed focus.
In a culture that often celebrates being busy, taking time away from work may feel difficult. However, using earned vacation days is one of the best ways to support both personal well-being and professional success. By making time off a priority, workers can enjoy a healthier balance between their careers and the rest of their lives, ultimately benefiting themselves, their families and their employers.
TAX DEED NO.: 2026TX000107
FILED: 05/04/2026
TAKE NOTICE
County of: Will
Date Premises Sold: December 4, 2023
Certificate No.: 22-00089
Sold for General Taxes of (year): 2022 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality)
and Special Assessment Number: N/A
Warrant No.: N/A Installment No.: N/A
THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
Property Located at: 1900 Lincoln Avenue, Bolingbrook, Illinois 60490
Legal Description or Property
Index No.: 07-01-25-406-016-0000
This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on October 29, 2026.
The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem
the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the county clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.
This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before October 29, 2026.
This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of this County in Joliet, Illinois on November 19, 2026 at 9:00 A.M. in Courtroom 905, Will County Courthouse, 100 West Jefferson Street, Joliet, Illinois 60432.
You may be present at this hearing but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time.
YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY
Redemption can be made at any time on or before October 29, 2026 by applying to the County Clerk of Will County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Joliet, Illinois.
For further information contact the County Clerk:
Address: 302 North Chicago Street, Joliet, Illinois 60432
Telephone: (815) 740-4615
P&N PROPERTIES INC
Purchaser or Assignee
Dated: 05/04/2026
CASE NUMBER: 2026TX000107
CERTIFICATE OF PURCHASE NUMBER: 22-00089
Begum Razia
Masroor A. Shamsi
Quratual-aen I Abbasi
KSN Registered Agent, LLC as R/A for Americana Estates Homeowners Association
Americana Estates Homeowners Association
Occupant
Will County Clerk
Claimants, Judgment Creditors and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “unknown owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots” 8147-964893
Published 5/21/2026, 5/28/2026 & 6/4/2026
County of: Will
Date Premises Sold: December 4, 2023
Certificate No.: 22-00925
Sold for General Taxes of (year): 2022 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality)
and Special Assessment Number: N/A
Warrant No.: N/A Installment No.: N/A
THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
Property Located at: 25024 West Lake Forrest Lane, Shorewood, Illinois 60404
Legal Description or Property
Index No.: 05-06-20-402-012-0000
This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on October 29, 2026.
The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures
or tax sales. Check with the county clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.
This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before October 29, 2026.
This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of this County in Joliet, Illinois on November 19, 2026 at 9:00 A.M. in Courtroom 905, Will County Courthouse, 100 West Jefferson Street, Joliet, Illinois 60432.
You may be present at this hearing but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time.
YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY
Redemption can be made at any time on or before October 29, 2026 by applying to the County Clerk of Will County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Joliet, Illinois.
For further information contact the County Clerk:
Address: 302 North Chicago Street, Joliet, Illinois 60432
Telephone: (815) 740-4615
P&N PROPERTIES INC
Purchaser or Assignee Dated: 05/04/2026
CASE NUMBER: 2026TX000108
CERTIFICATE OF PURCHASE NUMBER: 22-00925
Sowals Inc.
Illinois Secretary of State for Sowals Inc. Law Offices of Lynn D. Dowd Adetoro Ogunmuyiwa as R/A for Sowals Inc.
Sowals Inc. c/o Adetoro Ogunmuyiwa Joel Shupe as R/A for Lake Forrest Homeowners’ Association Lake Forrest Homeowners’ Association Occupant
User of 25024 West Lake Forrest Lane, Shorewood, Illinois Will County Clerk
Claimants, Judgment Creditors and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “unknown owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots” 10732-964896
Published 5/20/2026, 5/27/2026 & 6/3/2026
from page 2, ‘ROCK’)
Invasive carp are always pushing upstream in search of new food sources, Lamer said, making it important to reduce their numbers at Rock Run Rookery so fewer reach Brandon Road.
If invasive carp ever reach Lake Michigan and the other Great Lakes, it is feared they could devastate native species and the billion-dollar sport fishing industry, Lamer said.
“They’re almost the perfect invader,” he said.
Some female carp in the Mississippi River have been found to produce up to 3.2 million eggs in a single batch and they are capable of spawning multiple times a year, he explained.
“So, one, they can produce a lot of offspring,” he said. “And, two, they’re planktivores.” The amount of phytoplankton and zooplankton invasive carp species consume harms native fish that also rely on that food source, including the many species that feed on plankton in their early life stages.
In addition to the one-way trap, three other agencies continue to use the Rock Run Rookery lake to help reduce carp numbers in the river. The Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources all have permits to monitor and remove invasive carp from the Forest Preserve site.
Forest Preserve support
“We have been supporting these agencies and others in the ongoing effort to limit the spread of invasive carp along the Illinois River waterway (which includes its tributaries) since 2012,” said Dave Robson, the Forest Preserve District’s natural resource management supervisor.
The Forest Preserve also allowed the installation of concrete flood wall barriers on Centennial Trail in Romeoville to limit the possibility invasive carp could move upstream. The main goal is to prevent invasive carp from reaching Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes, he added. “Current data suggests they have not moved upstream on the Des Plaines River past the Brandon Road Lock and Dam,” Robson said.
And Rock Run Rookery is a key “backwater” location for multiple agencies to monitor the carp’s upstream movement, he added.
“Over the years, thousands of carp have been removed from the lake, and therefore the ecosystem,” Robson said. “In addition to being a good collection point for the carp, it provides ready access for research on ways to improve our effectiveness managing these invasive fish.”
