JULY 29-30, 2026 • VOL. 65 ISSUE 39
Will County ROE to Host LOCAL NEWS Two Back-to-School Plainfield East HS Science Backpack Giveaway Olympiad students achieve Events record-breaking state ...see page 3.
performance See Page 3:
Mayor Noak Appointed to New Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Board See ’NITA’ on page 3
The new regional board will oversee the CTA, Metra and Pace, with Mayor John Noak continuing his role on the Pace Suburban Bus Board. Submitted Photo
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JULY 29-30, 2026 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM | PAGE 2
LOCAL NEWS
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JULY 29-30, 2026 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM | PAGE 3
LOCAL NEWS
Nature Foundation donation contributes $104,500 to Forest Preserve projects The $104,500 gift will fund habitat restoration, visitor amenities and outdoor education projects across Will County forest preserves
From left to right are Forest Preserve Commissioner Dawn Bullock, Deputy Executive Director Adam Oestmann, Board President Judy Ogalla, Foundation Executive Director Tara Neff, Forest Preserve Board Vice President Destinee Ortiz, Commissioner Julie Berkowicz, Executive Director Tracy Chapman and Commissioner Elnalyn Costa. (Forest Preserve photo | Glenn P. Knoblock)
From wetland restoration to a water bottle filling station, The Nature Foundation of Will County’s donations to the Forest Preserve District of Will County continue to enhance the preserves and visitor experiences. Foundation Executive Director Tara Neff presented a check for $104,500 to the Forest Preserve Board at its July 9 meeting. The donation will support the following projects and programs: $50,000 from the Foundation’s wetland restoration fund for wetland and upland buffer restoration work at Hickory Creek Preserve. $40,000 from the Citgo Caring For Our Coast program for Romeoville Prairie Nature Preserve restoration work. $10,000 from a ComEd Green Region program grant for work at Dellwood Park West and Lockport Prairie East Preserve. $1,000 from the Will County Land Use Department’s Resource Recovery and
Energy Division to install a water bottle refill station and drinking fountain at Sugar Creek Preserve. $3,500 for booklets and hiking medallions for the Woods Walk challenge, which begins Sept. 1. The preserves provide physical and mental health benefits to visitors, Neff said. But they also enhance the environment by protecting biodiversity, storing carbon to regulate the climate, filtering stormwater to prevent flooding and improving air quality. “Protecting (the preserves) isn’t just about beauty,” Neff said. “It’s about safeguarding the very systems that keep us healthy.” The Nature Foundation of Will County is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that accepts donations from corporations and individuals who would like to give back to nature. Donations can be made online or by mail. For more details, visit the donation page on the Foundation’s website, willcountynature.org/make-a-donation.
FROM THE COVER ’NITA’
Mayor Noak Appointed to New Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Board
The new regional board will oversee the CTA, Metra and Pace, with Mayor John Noak continuing his role on the Pace Suburban Bus Board Mayor Noak was appointed to the Northern Illinois Transit Authority, a new regional transit board that will oversee and shape public transit policy in the greater Chicagoland region. The board is made up of 20 directors appointed by state and regional stakeholders and oversees the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra, and Pace. In addition, Mayor Noak will continue to serve on the Pace Suburban Bus Board of Directors as the positions are paired under the new governance structure. Mayor Noak has served on the Pace Suburban Bus Board of Directors since 2022.
“I would like to thank Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant for appointing me to this new board and for her trust in my transit experience,” said Mayor John Noak. “I’d also like to extend my gratitude to the Will County Board for their continued support and commitment to our region.” “I appreciate Mayor Noak’s advocacy for a truly regional public transportation system, said County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant. “With the implementation of NITA, we have a unique opportunity to expand transportation access and
drive continued growth for our region.” Also on the transportation front, Mayor Noak, State Representative Nataley Manley, and Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant recently attended the launch of the new Pace hybrid-electric buses for Will County. Hybrid technology is expected to reduce fuel costs by approximately 20 percent annually compared with traditional diesel buses. This helps Pace move service closer to their goal of being a fully zero-emission fleet by 2040.
Will County ROE to Host Two Back-toSchool Backpack Giveaway Events Authorities identify alleged caller, determine there was no credible threat after precautionary closure of two Oswego public pools JOLIET, Ill. – The Will County Regional Office of Education (ROE) is helping students prepare for a successful school year by hosting two free Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway events for families across Will County. Backpacks filled with essential school supplies will be distributed while supplies last at the following locations: Friday, July 31, 2026 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Early Learning Center 1500 S. Sangamon St. Crete, IL
year ready to learn. “Every child deserves to walk into the classroom on the first day of school feeling prepared and confident,” said Dr. Lisa Caparelli-Ruff, Will County Regional Superintendent of Schools. “This event is one way we can support our families and invest in the success of our students before the school year even begins.” A parent or guardian must accompany each child to receive a backpack. In addition to the backpack giveaway, Jet Dental will provide free dental
Thursday, August 6, 2026 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Brooks Middle School 350 Blair Lane Bolingbrook, IL The annual giveaway is designed to ease the financial burden on families while ensuring students have the supplies they need to begin the school
(Continued on page 2 see ‘POPE’)
exams during the Crete event only, giving families an opportunity to address an important part of their child’s overall health before school starts. The Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway is sponsored by the Will County Regional Office of Education and made possible through the support of community partners committed to helping local students succeed. For more information, contact the Will County Regional Office of Education at (815) 740-8360 or visit the ROE’s social media pages for updates.
PAGE 4 | JULY 29-30, 2026 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM
JULY 29-30, 2026 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM | PAGE 5
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.
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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 WILL COUNTY PROBATE NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWELFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT WILL COUNTY, ILLINOIS - IN PROBATE IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF
)
JAMES E. BESLAN,
)
) CASE NO. 26 PR 341
) DECEASED.
) CLAIM NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICES Notice is hereby given of the death of JAMES E. BESLAN, of LOCKPORT, State of Illinois. Letters of office were issued on July 13, 2026, to MICHAEL A. BESLAN, of Lemont, State of Illinois, whose attorney is T. Andrew Coyle of 131 East 9th Street, Lockport, IL 60441. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court at Court Annex, 3208 McDonough Street, Joliet, Illinois 60431, or with the representative, or both, on or before January 29, 2027, which date is not less than 6 months from the date of the first publication of this notice and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of any claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed. JAMES E. BESLAN, DECEASED /s/ T. Andrew Coyle The Coyle Law Office 131 E 9th St, Lockport, IL 60441 (815) 838-6199 Published 7/29/26, 8/5/26 & 8/12/26
LEGAL NOTICE WILL COUNTY PROBATE NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS
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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWELFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT WILL COUNTY, ILLINOIS - IN PROBATE IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF
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) )
ROBERT L. YOUNG,
)
CASE NO. 26 PR 326
) DECEASED.
)
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CRACKED OR BOWING WALLS A SETTLING FOUNDATION CRAWLSPACE ODORS A WET, MUSTY BASEMENT UNEVEN CONCRETE SAGGING FLOORS FAILING SUMP PUMPS
Notice is hereby given of the death of ROBERT L. YOUNG, of LOCKPORT, State of Illinois. Letters of office were issued on June 29, 2026, to JANET KOGER, of Lockport, State of Illinois, whose attorney is T. Andrew Coyle of 131 East 9th Street, Lockport, IL 60441.
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Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court at Court Annex, 3208 McDonough Street, Joliet, Illinois 60431, or with the representative, or both, on or before January 29, 2027, which date is not less than 6 months from the date of the first publication of this notice and any claim not filed within that period is barred.
DON’T DELAY ADDRESSING THESE CRITICAL ISSUES! BEFORE
Copies of any claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representa-
BEFORE
tive and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed. ROBERT L. YOUNG, DECEASED /s/ T. Andrew Coyle The Coyle Law Office 131 E 9th St, Lockport, IL 60441 (815) 838-6199 Published 7/29/26, 8/5/26 & 8/12/26
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SENIORS
Life insurance products to consider Life insurance is an important component of wealth management and financial planning. Life insurance is designed to lessen the financial burden on loved ones in the event of a policy holder’s death. Life insurance typically is cheaper to purchase when someone is young and gets more expensive as a person ages. Health history, life choices (like smoking) and additional factors play key roles in determining the cost of a policy, according to the Office of the Insurance Commissioner of Washington State. Life insurance policies are not all the same, and generally are categorized as term life insurance and permanent life insurance. With term life insurance, a person gets coverage for a defined length of time. If the insured dies during that time, money is paid to the person’s beneficiaries. When the term expires, no money is paid out and the person must get new coverage or go without life insurance. With a permanent life insurance policy, the coverage is lifelong and also includes a “cash value” component that can help with other financial objectives, such as saving for retirement. A deep dive into life insurance can help consumers determine which policy is best for them. Term life insurance This type of policy is sold in periods of one, five, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 years. Cov-
erage amounts vary and people buy term life insurance for a length long enough to cover their prime working years, according to NerdWallet. This is often the least expensive life insurance product, but if a person outlives the policy, beneficiaries won’t receive a payout. Permanent life insurance Permanent life insurance is designed to cover a person’s entire life. The cash value component grows over time and can be borrowed against to pay for various needs. There are specific types of permanent life insurance.
• Whole life insurance: Whole life insurance will last a person’s entire life if premiums are maintained. In general, premiums stay the same and the insured gets the guaranteed rate of return on the policy’s cash value. The death benefit also will not change. Premiums are more expensive than term life, so this is best for people who want a basic permanent policy who can afford the higher premiums. • Universal life insurance: This coverage is cheaper than whole life insurance, but still more expensive than term life. With this type of policy, the insured can raise or lower the amount they pay within the limits of the policy. However, premiums typically increase over time, and individuals may subtract these increased costs against their cash value account com-
ponent or death benefit. That cash value component grows based on market interest rates, says NerdWallet, and is not guaranteed.
• Variable universal life insurance: This type of insurance allows the cash value component to be invested in stocks, bonds and other investment products. Premiums are flexible, but a higher risk tolerance is necessary. While there is potential for greater growth, there also is the risk that comes with investing these funds, says Guardian. • Indexed universal life insurance: Balancing risk with reward, an indexed universal life insurance policy can have the cash value growth linked to the performance of a stock market index like the S&P 500. Guardian says these policies use downside protection and upside caps. This means that during a bad market year, the insured’s cash value will not decline, but in a good year, the cash value won’t grow as much as the index itself. This policy is good for people who want to invest their money but risk little. • Burial/final expense insurance: This is a very small policy designed to cover the costs of final expenses, but may not qualify for other life insurance. The death
benefit is guaranteed but is often limited
ance policy options to provide peace of
to between $5,000 and $25,000. Since a medical exam is not needed, it is an option for seniors and those with preexisting conditions.
mind that beneficiaries are provided for in the event of their death.
A deep dive into life insurance can help consumers determine which policy is best for them.
Individuals can explore various life insur-
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