JULY 15-16, 2026 • VOL. 65 ISSUE 37
Illinois Students Raise LOCAL NEWS
Awareness of Deadly Plainfield East HS Science
Radon Gasstudents Throughachieve Olympiad Award-Winning record-breakingCreations state ...see page 3.
performance See Page 3:
Suburban public pools temporarily closed after reported threat; police find no credible danger Authorities identify alleged caller, determine there was no credible threat after precautionary closure of two Oswego public pools
See ’THREAT’ on page 3
The Oswego Police Department announced Friday that the Oswegoland Park District had closed the Civic Center Aquatic Park and Winrock Pool as a precaution while officers investigated a potential threat.
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LOCAL NEWS
Illinois Students Raise Awareness of Deadly Radon Gas Through Award-Winning Creations Students win monetary prizes for educating communities about radon, a dangerous, invisible gas found in Illinois homes and schools. CHICAGO – (July 14, 2026) – Local students are being recognized for using their creativity to spotlight a serious health threat hiding in plain sight. The American Lung Association and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency-Office of Homeland Security announced the winners of the 2026 Illinois Radon Poster and Video Contest, where students use their creativity to help raise awareness of radon - a colorless, odorless gas found in homes and schools across the state and the leading cause of lung cancer for individuals who do not smoke. One out of every 15 homes in the United States have elevated levels of radon. In Illinois, 33.5% of homes have reported radon test results equal to or above the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) action level of 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Schools are the second largest source of radon exposure for students and staff as they spend nearly eight hours inside these buildings five days a week for nearly 10 months. To raise awareness of radon’s health risk and the importance of testing, middle and high school students across Illinois were eligible to participate in the radon poster and video contests. This year’s winners are: The 2026 poster winners and their prizes include: 1st place – Atharva Karale, Hickory Grove Elementary School ($200) 2nd place –Sommachi S.T.E.M. Academy ($150)
Okwudili,
3rd place – Zooey Kubly, Park Junior High School ($100) The 2026 video winners and their prize include: 1st place – Breaking News-Radon Gas – Madison Roberts, Megan Pyykkonen, Evelyn Wieringa, and Lilian Rankin, Wheaton Academy ($600 split/$150 each) 2nd place – Radon Awareness Video – Jackson Younce, Wheaton Academy ($500) 3rd place – Radon Gas – Anna Frankel – Hinsdale High School ($400) Video Most Views – Importance of Ra-
don – Jimena Rivera & Jennifer Hernandez, Morton West High School ($200 split/$100 each) “Radon is a serious but often overlooked health risk, and these students are helping to change that,” said Melinda Enstrom, Office of Nuclear Safety, Radon Program Manager with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security. “We truly appreciate the time, energy, and work students across the state put into their posters and videos. Their work is helping to educate communities across Illinois about the risks and the simple steps that can be taken to stay safe.” Radon is a naturally occurring, colorless, odorless, tasteless, radioactive gas formed by the breakdown of uranium in the soil.
FROM THE COVER ’THREAT’
Suburban public pools temporarily closed after reported threat; police find no credible danger
Authorities identify alleged caller, determine there was no credible threat after precautionary closure of two Oswego public pools OSWEGO, Ill. — Two public pools in Oswego were temporarily closed Friday while police investigated a reported threat, though authorities later determined there was no credible danger. The Oswego Police Department announced Friday that the Oswegoland Park District had closed the Civic Center Aquatic Park and Winrock Pool as a precaution while officers investigated a potential threat.
Police said the reported threat had
It is found in all 50 states and may enter a home or building through cracks in the foundation and other openings. The EPA recommends all homes or buildings with radon levels at or equal to 4 picocuries per liter to get a radon mitigation system installed to reduce levels. “Radon may be invisible, but its impact is very real, and these students are making sure people are paying attention,” said Alexis Gigliello, Nationwide Manager, Indoor Air Quality with the American Lung Association. “It’s inspiring to see students take the lead in raising awareness and protecting the health of families across Illinois. Their creativity is helping shine a light on this dangerous gas and reminding communities that testing is the only way to know if you’re at risk.” The Lung Association and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency-Office of Homeland Security selected this year’s winners. The first-place winner of the Illinois Radon Poster and Video Contests will be entered into the 2027 National Radon Poster and Video Contest. Details for the 2027 contests will be announced on the contest websites at Illinois Radon Poster Contest and Illinois Radon Video Contest.
not been confirmed, but officers were actively investigating out of an abundance of caution. During the investigation, residents were asked to avoid the area.
iff ’s Office for follow-up.
By 4 p.m., the department announced that officers had completed their investigation and determined that no credible threat existed.
The pools were expected to reopen after the investigation concluded. “We appreciated the cooperation and patience of pool staff, patrons, and the community while officers thoroughly investigated the report to help ensure everyone’s safety,” the police department said in a statement.
According to police, investigators identified the person who made the alleged call and spoke with the caller’s family. The case has been referred to the Kendall County Sher-
No injuries were reported, and authorities did not release additional details about the nature of the reported threat or the ongoing follow-up investigation.
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For more information on the poster and video contest please contact Janye Killelea via email at Janye.Killelea@Lung.org or call (312) 940-7624.
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BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE
5 signs a washing machine needs repair From leaks and loud noises to drainage issues and excessive shaking, these warning signs can help homeowners determine when a washer needs repair—or when it’s time for a replacement Washing machines are among the hardest-working appliances in any home. From everyday loads of clothing to bedding, towels and sports uniforms, many households depend on them several times each week. Because washers perform such a routine task, it’s easy to overlook them until something goes wrong. A breakdown can quickly become a major inconvenience, leading to piles of dirty laundry and unexpected repair costs. Fortunately, washing machines often provide warning signs before they fail completely. Paying attention to changes in performance can help homeowners address minor issues before they become major repairs. While many problems can be fixed by a qualified technician, others may signal that it is more practical to replace an aging machine. According to Consumer Reports, washing machines are generally reliable appliances. In one of its member surveys, only 14 percent of washers experienced a breakdown between their second and fifth years of ownership. Even so, recognizing the following signs can help homeowners avoid being caught off guard.
Leaking water
Finding water beneath or around the washing machine is one of the most obvious signs that something is wrong. While a small puddle may seem harmless, leaks can damage flooring, walls and nearby cabinets if left untreated. Water leaks can be caused by worn or cracked door seals, loose or damaged water supply hoses, a failing drain pump, or even cracks in the washer drum. Homeowners should inspect hoses regularly for signs of wear and tighten any loose connections, but persistent leaks should be evaluated by a repair professional.
Control panel problems
Modern washing machines rely on electronic controls to operate efficiently. If the washer will not turn on, buttons stop responding, or the display flashes error codes repeatedly, the control panel or electronic components may be malfunctioning. Sometimes a simple power reset resolves the issue, but recurring electrical problems often require professional diagnosis. Ignoring these warning signs can eventually leave
the machine unable to complete a wash cycle. Poor drainage At the end of a cycle, clothing should be damp but not soaking wet. If water remains in the drum or garments are dripping, the washer may not be draining properly. The problem could be as simple as a clogged drain filter or an object such as a coin or small sock blocking the pump. However, it also may indicate a failing drain pump or a blocked drain hose. Addressing drainage issues promptly can help prevent unpleasant odors, mold growth and additional strain on the machine. Excessive vibration or movement A washing machine should remain relatively stable during the spin cycle. If it shakes violently, bangs against nearby walls or appears to “walk” across the floor, it may be unbalanced or have worn suspension rods, springs or shock absorbers. An uneven floor or an overloaded drum also can contribute to excessive vibration. Rebalancing the load or adjusting the machine’s leveling feet may solve the problem, but ongoing shaking should be inspected before it causes further damage. Unusual noises Every washing machine produces some noise, but grinding, squealing, knocking or scraping sounds are not normal. These noises may point to worn bearings, damaged belts, loose drums or foreign objects trapped inside the machine. Addressing unusual sounds early may prevent more costly repairs later, as components that continue operating while damaged can place additional stress on the washer. Other warning signs Some washing machines show subtler signs of trouble. Cycles that suddenly take much longer than usual, clothes that come out less clean than before, unpleasant odors that persist despite cleaning, or a washer that frequently stops mid-cycle may all indicate developing mechanical or electrical issues. Paying attention to these changes can help homeowners schedule repairs before the machine fails completely. Repair or replace? When deciding whether to repair or replace a washing machine, age and
repair costs are important considerations. Consumer Reports notes that a relatively new, high-quality washer is often worth repairing, particularly if the repair cost is modest. However, an older machine with significant wear and multiple recurring problems may be more economical to replace. Before scheduling a repair, homeowners should check whether the appliance is still covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. While many washers include a one-year limited warranty, some manufacturers, including Speed Queen, offer warranties of up to seven years on select models. Routine maintenance also can help extend the life of a washing machine. Cleaning the detergent dispenser and drain filter, inspecting hoses for cracks, avoiding overloaded wash cycles, and leaving the door open after use to allow the drum to dry can reduce wear and help prevent mold and mildew. A washing machine that receives regular maintenance and prompt attention when problems arise can often provide many years of reliable service. By recognizing the warning signs of trouble early, homeowners may be able to avoid unexpected breakdowns and make informed decisions about whether repair or replacement is the best investment.
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LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWELFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT WILL COUNTY, ILLINOIS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY ANN DECMAN, DECEASED.
) ) ) ) )
CASE NO. 2026 PR 000328
CLAIM NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to creditors of the death of Mary Ann Decman. Letters of Office were issued on June 26, 2026 to Robert Decman, 1123 Frederick Street, Joliet, Illinois 60435, as Independent Executor, whose Attorney of record is Robert J. Welz, Rouskey Law Office, 210 N. Hammes Avenue, Suite 105, Joliet, Illinois 60435.
LEGAL NOTICES
Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Will County, 100 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, IL 60432, or with the Independent Executor, or both, WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION. ANY CLAIM NOT FILED WITHIN THAT PERIOD IS BARRED. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Independent Administrator and to the Attorney of record within ten days after it has been filed. E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider. Visit http://efile.illinoiscourts.gov/service-providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider. If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, vit http:/illinoiscourts.gov/faq/gethelp.asp. or talk with your local Circuit Clerk’s Office. MARY ANN DECMAN, DECEASED
ROBERT J. WELZ ROUSKEY LAW OFFICE 210 N. HAMMES AVENUE, SUITE 105 JOLIET, ILLINOIS 60435 815-741-2118 IL REGISTRATION NO. 03127808 Published 7/9/26, 7/16/26 & 7/23/26
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JULY 15-16, 2026 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM | PAGE 7
SENIORS
How seniors can build their social networks in retirement
From reconnecting with old friends to joining local groups and trying new activities, retirees can expand their social circles and enjoy the many benefits of staying connected
Social isolation and loneliness can have a notably adverse effect on a person’s overall health. According to the World Health Organization, roughly 12 percent of older individuals experience loneliness, which can have a negative impact on their physical and mental health, quality of life, and even their life expectancy. Seniors have much to gain when they take successful steps to avoid social isolation. Seniors who are concerned about the prospect of social isolation or loneliness or those already experiencing such feelings can try these strategies to build their social networks in retirement. • Reconnect with old friends. It’s easy for adults to lose touch with old friends. By the time many adults reach middle age, professional and personal obligations can leave little time for a thriving social life. Successful professionals may be preoccupied with work projects, and while parents may be juggling their own hectic schedules with their children’s obligations. Come retirement, much of those responsibilities have ended, making this
a perfect time to reconnect with old friends who also might have extra free time on their hands. Reach out through social media, text message or even a phone call, and let the situation unfold organically from there. • Take advantage of community offerings. Many communities sponsor events for seniors, like bus trips to local museums or stadiums, in an effort to encourage seniors to get out of the house. Retirees can take advantage of these opportunities, which tend to attract like-minded individuals with the same interests. A bus trip to a theater production will attract fellow arts lovers, and shared interests are a solid foundation for friendship. • Start a local club or group. Starting a local club based on a particular activity is another great way for seniors to build a social network in retirement. Take to social media and express your interest in starting a local book club or walking group. Like community-sponsored bus trips, clubs and groups tend to attract like-minded individuals, providing a
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built-in pathway to friendship. • Reconnect with your faith. Houses of worship also offer a great way to meet locals and build relationships based on a shared identity. Faith-based communities provide a sense of belonging that can help retirees overcome social isolation and loneliness. • Open yourself to new experiences. Trying something new is another great way to make new friends. Many local agencies like parks departments or community recreation offices offer seniors in-person workshops covering a wide range of activities. These offerings are a great way to discover a new pastime and meet new people along the way. Social isolation and loneliness poses a significant threat to millions of seniors. But there are many ways for seniors to build their social networks in retirement.
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