Easter Egg Hunts
Perry County Board Approves Solar-Related Projects Commissioners Take No Action on Personnel Item
By Pete Spitler
PINCKNEYVILLE –
After meeting in executive session for about an hour and 15 minutes during last Thursday’s regular meeting, the Perry County commissioners took no action on a possible motion to employ personnel.
(treasurer, assessor, county clerk, circuit clerk)” under the discussion portion of the agenda, which was later amended to show that no discussion would be taking place.
During the open portion of the meeting, the county board heard a pair of solar-related proposals from Ranger Power Assistant Development Manager Ashton Merbach and New Leaf Energy Project Developer Tom Ryan.
Ranger Power, which was formed in 2017 out of Chicago, already operates the Prairie State Solar facility near Swanwick and is currently building the Great Plains Solar facility near Coulterville.
School Bus Crash Lawsuits Conclude
By Pete Spitler
PERRY COUNTY –
A trio of lawsuits involving the Catholic Diocese of Belleville in connection to the November 9, 2023 school bus crash concluded last year.
According to Perry County court documents, the Diocese agreed to a $140,000 settlement with Du Quoin Mayor Josh Downs - on behalf of one minor child - in one case and a $15,000 settlement on behalf of another minor child in the other.
The third lawsuit, filed by Nicholas Hirsch on behalf of a minor, was dismissed with prejudice last March upon request of Hirsch’s attorney, Kurt
Harris. The Hirsch case, in which the Diocese had been accused of two counts of negligence in relation to the crash, had been seeking a damage award in excess of $50,000.
On November 9, 2023, 15 St. Bruno Catholic School students were heading home on U.S. Highway 51 for the long Veterans Day weekend when the school bus they were riding in rear-ended the step-deck trailer of a semi, causing a large gash down the driver’s side of the bus.
According to the Illinois State Police, who were notified of the wreck
Continued on Page 3
Just prior to the session, Board President Bruce Morgenstern requested County Treasurer Jodi Koester and labor attorney Rhett Barke to be present.
Supervisor of Assessments Yvonne Morris and Circuit Clerk Tricia Chandler both asked to be part of it as well, but were denied by Morgenstern.
About 45 minutes into executive session, Koester returned to the meeting room and informed those who were waiting for the commissioners to return that she had been asked to leave.
The original agenda for the meeting listed “Elected county officials
Ranger Power’s newest proposal is to construct a 100-megawatt battery storage system on 10 acres of privately-owned land within the Great Plains Solar footprint.
The project is targeting an early 2027 construction start date with completion late next year or early 2028.
Continued on Page 3
Pinckneyville FFA Conduct Drive Your Tractor to School Day
PCHS Prepares Next Year’s Budget
By
PINCKNEYVILLE – The Pinckneyville Community High School District 101 Board of Education authorized Superintendent Andrew Dagner at the March 26 board meeting to begin the budget development process for the 2026-2027 school year. Additionally, Dagner will post the budget hearing notice and authorize district spending beginning July 1 until the formal adoption of the district budget at the September 2026 board meeting.
In other business:
The Board conducted the first reading of the proposed Student Handbook changes for the 2026-2027 school year. Approval was given for an overnight/outof-state trip request for the PCHS cheerleading team to travel to Orlando, Florida, from July 27-31.
The board approved the renewal of the district’s membership with
the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) for the 2026-2027 school year. The board approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Pinckneyville High School Education Association regarding Susan Cannon. Brandon Hardin was approved as a volunteer baseball coach. The board agreed to hire Ryan Bruns as assistant girls track coach and Dennis Heape was approved as the head fishing coach.
Superintendent Dagner shared the following information with the board:
Dagner thanked all the local businesses and community members who continue to support our Sunshine Cart.
Dagner complemented the cast, crew, parent volunteers, and local business partners along with Mrs. Nichols and Mrs. Filkins, for making the school production of “The Addams Family” a tremendous success.
The superintendent thanked everyone who came out to donate blood at the PCHS blood drive on March 25.
Dagner congratulated the PCHS Archery Team on qualifying for state. Five team members qualified individually, with 19 students competing in Bullseye and 15 in 3-D.
Dagner stated he is continuing to develop a plan to upgrade the security camera system at PCHS. As part of this effort, CTS is installing cameras at the new concession stand.
The superintendent is currently developing the Consolidated District Plan and will seek Board approval at its next meeting.
This plan outlines how the district will utilize federal Title funds (including Title I, II, and IV) to support student achievement, align with district goals, ensure compliance with federal requirements and guide the implementation and evaluation of programs
and services.
The first phase of the facilities upgrade included the construction of a new concession and restroom facility at the south end of the football field and track, which is now complete.
This addition improves access to concessions and restrooms for students, spectators and community members, while eliminating the need to enter the building during events, enhancing safety, accessibility and overall convenience.
The second phase of the facilities upgrade included resurfacing the football field to provide a state-of-the-art turf surface. According to Dagner, this project has now been completed.
Dagner stated the district is now moving into Phase 3 of the facilities plan, which includes developing a multipurpose facility and an open commons area to support a variety of student and community needs.
Continued on Page 2
Perry County Historical Society Presents ‘Dining in History’
By Pete Spitler Weekly-Press
PINCKNEYVILLE
–
The Perry County Historical Society will be presenting a “Dining in History” event at St. Paul UCC on May 2 that will historians speaking on Southern Illinois and the American Frontier.
The event is being planned as part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
“I hope people participate in this, because there’s a wealth of information nobody really knows about our county and city and I hope people make an effort to come,” said Cheryl Bigham of the Perry County Historical Society.
Historians Ray Porter, Rhonda Shubert and David Sprehe will be speaking. The event, which is scheduled from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., is $30 per person and includes a meal by Kitten’s Catering and a silent auction.
Reservations are required by April 22 and can be made by calling 618-357-0075. The event is to benefit the historical society.
“We’ve kinda rebranded ourselves from COVID and different things where we’ve been remodeling the museum and the exhibits that we have and we’re focusing more on Perry County,” Bigham said. “We are also focusing on the fact that it was an 1871 sheriff’s residence and jail. There’s hardly any left.
“Some of the rooms are going to be reflecting
the Victorian era.” Porter will be speaking about George Rogers Clark, Colonel Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, Chief Jean Baptiste Ducoigne and the Revolutionary War patriots who are buried in Perry County. Clark, sometimes referred to as the “father of the western country,” is best known locally for capturing Kaskaskia on July 4, 1778 without firing a shot. Clark’s march to Vincennes in the winter of that year and the siege of British-held Fort Sackville - often regarded as the greatest military achievement of his career - is also notable in that it was accomplished without support from the regular Continental army in either men or funds.
“My presentation will be the history of him coming to Southern Illinois during the Revolutionary War days and tie it into Perry County,” Porter said. “I’m glad they’re doing it and I’ll be glad to do my part.” Shubert will be portraying a figure who may not be as well known to Perry County residents: Elizabeth “Eliza” Lucas Pinckney.
Eliza was the mother of Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, whom Pinckneyville is named after. Born on Antigua, an island in the British West Indies in the Caribbean, Eliza later moved to the United States with her family after her grandfather’s passing bequeathed three plantations in South
Continued on Page 3
Jeff Egbert Weekly-Press
The Pinckneyville FFA conducted one of its most popular activities on March 31, with 16 students driving their tractors to school that day. Perry County Young Leaders provided drinks and donuts, while the Perry County Sheriff’s Office provided logistical support. Photo by Dan Herbst.
Ranger Power Assistant Development Manager Ashton Merbach speaks about a proposed battery storage facility within the Great Plains Solar footprint during last Thursday’s meeting of the county board.
TRESPASSING
County Sheriff’s Office Announces
Results of St. Patrick’s Day Detail
By Pete Spitler Weekly-Press
PERRY COUNTY –
In an April 2 news release, the Perry County Sheriff’s Office announced the results of its St. Patrick’s Day enforcement period from March 13 through
March 23.
The PCSO joined forces with state and local law enforcement agencies in the St. Patrick’s Day “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High Get a DUI” enforcement campaign. During the enforce-
ment period, the PCSO issued four speeding citations and one operating an uninsured motor vehicle citation.
“We strongly enforce traffic laws for one reason - to save lives,” said Perry County Sheriff Chad Howard in the release.
“Whether it’s alcohol, cannabis, or another drug, impaired driving puts everyone at risk.”
The safety effort was funded by federal highway safety funds, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.
County Sheriff’s Office Announces Distracted Driving Enforcement
By Pete Spitler Weekly-Press
PERRY COUNTY –
In recognition of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the Perry County Sheriff’s Office has announced it is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies to step up
The district recently met with Heartland Construction to begin developing updated pricing, which will be shared with the board prior to moving forward.
Principal Haven Hicks shared the following information with the board: April 14 is the dis-
distracted driving enforcement efforts throughout the month of April.
According to the April 2 news release, motorists can expect “increased patrols looking for texting, social media use, video viewing and other distracted driving violations.”
“Distracted driving puts everyone at risk, and
trict’s scheduled ACT testing date. “We continue to emphasize preparation through classroom support and targeted instruction to help improve student performance,” Hicks said. “Softball, baseball and girls soccer are now underway and it has been great to see
evening a quick glance at a phone can have devastating consequences,” Sheriff Chad Howard said in the release. “During April, officers will be looking for distracted driving violations and reminding motorists to put the phone away and focus on the road.”
The news release advises motorists to pull over and park safely first before sending messages, checking directions or returning a call. In Illinois, manually using an electronic communication device while driving is illegal. The distracted driving campaign is funded with federal traffic safety funds administered by IDOT.
strong participation and early success across our spring programs.”
Hicks said the girls softball team is off to a strong start with a 3-1 record, while boys baseball currently stands at 2-1. Hicks stated that the current attendance rate ia 93.2%.
The average number of students assigned to study tables for the month was 29. This support continues to provide students with structured time and assistance to improve academic performance. Finally, Hicks thanked Mrs. Cannon, Mrs. Patterson and Mrs. Hicks for all of their hard work at study tables.
Police Blotter___________________
On March 28 at 9:37 a.m.
Donald R. Malinski, 62 of Du Quoin, was cited for operating uninsured vehicle, given notice to appear.
On March 28 at 10:24 a.m. Kelly M. Carter, 45 of Campbell Hill, was cited for operating uninsured vehicle, given notice to appear.
On March 28 at 2:29 p.m.
Stacey L. Sizemore, 48 of Tamaroa, was cited for expired registration, given promise to comply.
On March 28 at 3:01 p.m.
Kayleigh M. Clark, 19 of Du Quoin, was cited for expired registration, given promise to comply.
On March 29 at 2:47 a.m.
Jaycee L. Smith, 19 of Du Quoin, was cited for speeding, given COV.
Warranty Deed
Pinckneyville Lodge NO 930 Loyal Order of Moose to City of Pinckneyville, Section 24, 5S, 3W, SE-NW. Consideration $9,000
Haily A. Farmer and Hunter B. Farmer to Richard L. Verbal and Sarah E. Verbal, Sellews 2nd Addn, Lot 5, 6. Consideration $47,386
Dixie Lee Obertini and Richard A. Obertini to Daniel Vaughn Sanders, Section 27, 6S, 1E, Shooks 1st Addn, Lot 27, 28.
Lynne Ellen Jones, Bret Alan McDaniel and Neal Evan McDaniel to Department of Transportation and People of the State of Illinois, Section 16, 6S, 2W, SE-NW, SW-NW. Consideration $5,600
A Taste of Fantasy LLC to Pinckneyville Treats Inc, Section 24, 5S, 3W, SE-NW, Harriet Jones Addition, Lot 1, Pinck-
Paytin M. Donoghue, 21 of Cutler, traveling on Trico Cutler Road at Pyatt Road was charged with speeding (73 mph in a 55 mph zone) on March 29 at 12:48 p.m.
Coy A. Davis, 39 of Pinckneyville, was incarcerated for aggravated assault, resisting peace officer, aggravated battery to peace officer and threatening a public official on March 29 at 6:55 p.m.
Jeanellen F. Hayes, 33 of Du Quoin, was incarcerated for trespass, possession of hypodermic syringe and needle and possession on methamphetamine on March 30 at 2:02 p.m.
Brittany N. Hunt, 36 of Herrin, was incarcerated
enyville Original Survey, Lot 48, 49. Consideration $980,000
Greg A. Henseler to Kinney Investments LLC, Section 26, 4W, 3W, NESE, SE, Section 25, 4W, 3W, NW-SW. Consideration $224,000
Diane Pinkstaff to Logan K. Donoho, Tamaroa Original Survey, Block 5, Lot 4. Consideration
$64,000
Brent Faulkner, Mulvaney
Marilyn Renee Faulkner, Suzanne Christine Faulkner and Marilyn Renee Faulkner Mulvaney to Kelly Krone, Section 30, 5S, 1W, NE-SW. SW-NW. Consideration $365,500
Deed
Cathy J. Craig to Cathy J.
Craig 2026 Declaration of Trust and Cathy J. Craig, Mufflins T W, Lot 1, 2.
Perry County as Trustee to Michael Small, Section 17, 6, 1, NW-NW. Keyes Metcalfs 1st, Block 31,
for improper lane usage (x2) and driving under the influence on March 30 at 8:45 p.m.
Jaden A. Hayes, 19 of Murphysboro, traveling on State Route 14 at Sweetgum Road was cited for expired registration on March 31 at 8:03 p.m.
Tod A. Kennison, 53 of Du Quoin, was incarcerated on a Perry County warrant on March 1 at 6:42 p.m.
River S. Daniels, 26 of Tamaroa, was incarcerated for driving while license suspended, failure to signal and operating uninsured vehicle on March 2 at 8:02 p.m.
Michael C. Dailey, 50 of Carbondale, was incarcerated for possession
Lot 13,
Perry County as Trustee to Michael Small, Keyes Metcalfs 2nd. Block 31, Lot 14.
Perry County as Trustee to Michael Small, Wall Geo W BLK 2 4, Lot 1.
Collector of Perry County, Jodi M. Koester Treasurer, Adelbert I. Wagner III and Mechelle Lynn Wagner to City of Du Quoin and City of DuQuoin, Smiths Northwest, Block 60, Lot 18, 19
Jackie Bryan McCrary and James B. McCrary to Heather E. Graham, James B. McCrary and Thomas C. McCrary, Kaisers Addn, Lot 13.
Jackie Bryan McCrary and James B. McCrary to Thomas C. McCrary, Penina Murphys 1st Addn, Lot 10, 11, 12, B.
Quitclaim Deed
Clare Marie Wiskamp Declaration of Trust, Da-
of methamphetamine (less than 5 grams), contraband into a penal institution, improper turn and improper lighting on April 2 at 9:47 p.m.
Lucia F. Zaragoza, 48 of Cutler, traveling on Pyatt-Cutler Road at Bradley Cemetery Road was charged with speeding (80 mph in s 55 mph zone) on April 3 at 6:54 p.m.
Bruce K. Lively, 53 of Tamaroa, traveling on US Route 51 at Pintail Road was charged with operating uninsured vehicle on April 3 at 10:42 p.m.
Rebecca M. Porter, 39 of Pinckneyville, traveling on State Route 127 at Poppy Road was charged with speeding (88 mph in a 55 mph zone) on April 5 at 8:23 a.m.
vid E. Wiskamp Declaration of Trust, Clare Marie Wiskamp and David E. Wiskamp to DCSDW Farms LLC, Section 7, 6, 4, SE, NE, Section 6, 6S, 4W, SW-SE.
Clare Marie Wiskamp Declaration of Trust, David E. Wiskamp Declaration of Trust, Clare Marie Wiskamp and David E. Wiskamp to DCSDW Farms LLC, Section 6, 6S, 4W, SW, Section 7, 6, 4, NW.
Clare Marie Wiskamp Declaration of Trust, David E. Wiskamp Declaration of Trust, Clare Marie Wiskamp and David E. Wiskamp to DCSDW Farms LLC, Section 19, 5S, 4W, NE, SW. Albert J. Szczeblewski Sr. to Albert J. Szczeblewski, Section 32, 4S, 1W, NENW.
Clifford R. Curless and Julia A. Curless to Steven Brueggemann,
Dining in History Continued from
Carolina.
In 1739, Eliza’s father, Lieutenant Colonel George Lucas, returned to his post in Antigua due to rising tensions between England and Spain, leaving his eldest child as overseer of the planta-
at 3:10 p.m. that day, the semi - which was being driven by 52-year-old Issac F. Baez Valerio of Orlando, Florida - was stopped and waiting for northbound traffic to clear to turn east onto Kimmel Road when the crash happened.
Four students and the bus driver - identified by the ISP as 52-year-old Dennis E. Shemonic of Du Bois - were injured as a result.
In the Downs case,
tions at the ripe old age of 16 years old.
“She met Charles Pinckney and ended up marrying him and becoming the mother of Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, who Pinckneyville is named after,” Shubert
court documents state one child sustained a laceration to the back of their head requiring three stitches, while the other sustained injuries to their left leg, forehead and left cheek.
The case with more serious injuries claims a combined $173,749 in hospital and medical expenses, including nearly $87,000 ($86,999.00) for air medical transport.
When deducting liens, subrogation interests, at-
said. “She journaled everything she did and is documented.
“She perfected the growth of indigo, which became the secondlargest cash crop out of South Carolina during the Revolutionary War.”
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torney compensation and expenses, the net recovery for the injury claim was listed as $46,967.19.
The other minorinvolved case claimed a combined $39,827.94 in hospital and medical expenses, with the bulk coming from Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.
When deducting liens, subrogation interests, attorney compensation and expenses, the net recovery for the injury claim was listed as $8,758.
County Board Continued from Page 1
Merbach stated that the project will provide an additional $200 million investment in the county; $7.3 million in additional tax revenue over the 25year life of the project; a one-time $350,000 payment to the county as host upon the project’s completion and a $50,000 Green Initiative benefitting the Friends of Pyramid State Park.
Merbach also stated that Ranger Power donated $25,000 to the Coulterville Fire Department for a new UTV. She also answered some questions from the crowd, including what happens to the decommissioning process if the company goes bankrupt.
Merback explained the company is required to have a bond set aside for decommissioning that is reviewed every five years.
“If it is inadequate, they are required to bump it,” Morgenstern said.
Another member of the crowd brought up roadway concerns, with Morgenstern explaining that the companies are required to fix the roads when they’re done.
“No one gets paper coming from us until we get paper from them,” Morgenstern said. “There is a checklist they have to adhere to.”
Commissioner Joe Folden added that he is working on compiling the tax liability for all the solar projects in the county and said he expected to have that info by the next regular board meeting.
eaten up by solar panels,” Martin said.
Then it came time for Ryan’s presentation. He spoke about Granny’s Creek Solar, a proposed 2.5 megawatt community solar project at the intersection of State Route 14 and Granny’s Creek Road.
New Leaf Energy, formerly known as Borrego Solar, has been in business since the 1980s and developing solar projects since 2002.
Thirty-six of the company’s projects have been built in Illinois during the past nine years, with 18 projects currently in preconstruction with expected 2026 completions.
Ryan said that due
Bus Crash Continued from Page 1 NOTICE
was Pete Doerr, who questioned mineral rights, the property tax impact of the solar farms and what his options were as a landowner.
“I’m 82 years old, I’m trying to figure out if I have to move,” he said.
In other action Monday, the county board approved a pair of special use permits for mobile homes on Sassafrass Road in Du Quoin and Bushy Creek Road.
The former is a permit for Robin Presswood to place a used 2016 30x62 home on property owned by her father, Jackie Davison. The other is for Matt and Sarah Brendel to place a new 2026 60x30 mobile home on property identified as 1-64-0190-251.
ROUNDUP
• The county board approved the highway department’s annual material bids, with Commissioner Joe Folden abstaining from the vote due to Beelman being one of the low bidders.
• The county board approved the awarding of a $149,854.86 contract to Piney Creek Construction and Repair for the rehabilitation of three railroad crossings on Morning Glory Road and Zinnia Road.
• The county board approved a liquor license for Perry County Golf LLC, formerly the Red Hawk
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through a host community agreement. However, Ryan said the amount is still being negotiated.
Commissioner Jennifer Martin asked Zoning Administrator Becky Tracy how much total acreage the solar farms have taken up, but Tracy said she didn’t know the number off the top of her head.
“We only have
Ryan said New Leaf Energy will also donate $1 per panel to a local organization, possibly the Friends of Pyramid State Park.
During a special meeting on Monday night, the commissioners approved special use permits for both solar projects by
the end of June or early July. He noted that the chairlift will allow the building to become operable and serve as a backup to the elevator.
“The service we have gotten from this particular company has been dismal,” said Jeff Ashauer, the county’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) administrator. “I would never use them again.”
The county used a
New Leaf Energy Project Developer Tom Ryan speaks to County Commissioner Joe Folden about a proposed 2.5 megawatt solar farm at the intersection of State Route 14 and Granny’s Creek Road.
Vieve’s Vintage Recipes______
By Genevieve Hackworth
In a town where everyone knows everyone, I seem to have acquired a rather delightful reputation as “Aunt Gen”—which, I assure you, was never formally applied for, but suits me just fine. However, if I must be Auntie Gen, I fully intend to be every bit as fabulous as Rosalind Russell in Auntie Mame—and certainly not the later version… some things simply shouldn’t be remade.
The children appear as they always do—at the golf course, in the store, drifting through life with questions no one quite answers—and somehow, they land in my orbit. I offer snacks, a bit of perspective, and the occasional truth wrapped in humor, because really, what good is wisdom if it isn’t a little entertaining?
Sometimes that wisdom comes in the kitchen—teaching them flavor combinations they never would have imagined, or cooking up entirely new ideas, the way one might stir together a fresh perspective on life… with a pinch of audacity and a dollop of flair.
I tell the girls to be bold, to trust themselves, and for heaven’s sake, never shrink to make someone else comfortable. And I remind the boys—kindly but firmly—not to be the authors of their own trouble.
And should life go gloriously, disastrously wrong—as it so often does—I’ve made it known: I am the one you call. I’ll fetch you, sort you out, feed you something unapologetically greasy, and send you back into the world a little wiser and considerably more fabulous.
Through it all, I remind them to find their courage and to embrace life fully. Life is a banquet, my dear, and too many go hungry. You, however, must savor it—even in the smallest, most glorious moments.
And if, years from now, they send their own children my way with a knowing smile and say, “Go on—Aunt Gen will see to it,”
Well… I can’t imagine a finer legacy than that.
Vieve P.S. Brylee Russell, I promised you my mom’s best pasta dish and here it is.
Nancy L. Smith Hester’s Pink Pasta
Half box of angel hair pasta
1 stick of real butter*
1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream*
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
1/4 cup of sour cream salt and pepper to taste
half of a bag of frozen peas [opt]
1 large jar of mushrooms[opt]
1 small bag cleaned and shelled shrimp [opt]
Boil Pasta according to box. In a med size sauce pan on med ow heat melt butter. Once butter had melted whisk in sour cream , tomato paste and cream. Add mushrooms and peas. Mix cooked pasta in with the sauce.
*Helpful Hints: While you can use margarine or spreadable butter I don’t recommend it. The flavor isn’t nearly as good as if you were to use real butter, Also the water content makes it undesirable. If you are wanting a lighter version of the pasta, use half and half instead of heavy whipping cream. Also adding canned peas versus fresh peas will make them mushy and undesirable in pasta.
Perry County Humane Society Pet of the Week
Daisy is a happy go lucky girl and is approximately 1-3 years of age medium size girl. She has enough energy for three energizer bunnies! Daisy is a Pointer Mix with a beautiful white/red speckled coat. Please reach out to the shelter for more information. Please call us at 618-542-DOGS(3647) or if you have any specific questions about me, please email the shelter volunteer at pchsinfo@yahoo.com or go to www.perrycountyhumanesocietyil.com to apply. Also if you are interested in volunteering at the shelter please call us at the number above.
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Ramblin’ Man___________
By David Porter
Don’t be ‘that guy’
They say there’s one in every crowd. Turns out, there are often four or five. The heckler, the naysayer, the doomsdayer. The moaner, the groaner, the bellyache owner. Some people aren’t happy unless they’re raining on someone else’s parade.
I was on the internet, known for its compassion and empathy (said no one ever). Some people there have what I call Facebook kahoonas. They say some of the meanest things to people because they know their face is too far away from your fist.
I ran into some of these knuckleheads in a cigar fan group. Like-minded people join various groups to get recommendations, share observations, maybe console each other, and learn stuff. And, apparently, to pick fights with people they don’t know. It’s like going to Graceland because you hate Elvis.
I had posted about my most recent cigar acquisition because, in this particular group, bargains are bragging rights.
Someone had asked me how I store so many cigars because cigars need to be kept within a certain humidity range. So, I shared a picture of an old military lockerturned-humidor that will properly store 1,500 cigars.
“I wouldn’t smoke any of those,” one of the internet trolls stated. “They’re all cheap.”
There’s no shame in smoking a cheap cigar if that’s what you like, but half the cigars in the photo are highend sticks that retail between $18 and $22. If that’s a cheap cigar, what’s this guy smoking in his regal castle? And what’s he doing in a group designated for bargain hunters?
Another guy said I “suck at cigar-ing” because I don’t buy all my cigars at retail from a premium shop, of which
there are zero in my town. In order to be a good cigar aficionado, I need to drive out of town and pay 60-90 percent more for the same sticks.
I understand the economic importance of supporting local shops. When my wife and I plan trips, I research where the cigar shops are and patronize them. But you don’t suck at dining because you have a vegetable garden. You don’t suck at driving because you bought a used car. You don’t suck at reading because you checked a book out at the library.
I’m in the newspaper business. I can’t think of any industry that has been decimated more by people getting their news from the internet, buying their business cards online, promoting their shops on social media, and printing their own flyers at home. In 40 years, I’ve seen maybe two newspaper ads for a cigar shop. Patronage is a two-way street.
Most of the comments on my cigar post were positive – entertaining, cordial, informative. I felt like I made some new friends. But a handful were just nuts.
My wife said to just let it go. That’s her nature. It’s not mine. I don’t acquiesce to bullies.
It makes me wonder why some people are like that –why they feel the need to flaunt their faux superiority. Did nobody hug them when they were young? Did they miss out on a promotion? Were they shoved inside a locker in high school? It’s an obvious insecurity. Maybe they’re searching for affirmation, compassion, and empathy and think they’ll find it online. Good luck with that.
© Copyright 2026 by David Porter who can be reached at presseditor1@gmail.com. To be fair, incivility is not limited to the internet; some people are jerks wherever they go.
Mary’s Musings__________
By Mary Valerius
All people smile in the same language, so they say. Yet, it is apparent that some people have never taken the time or made the effort to learn the “smile language.” It always amazes me when I smile at someone I meet on the sidewalk, or the clerk at a business or a stranger, standing in line behind me, and I get a blank, nonsmiling look back. It doesn’t cost anything to smile at someone. A smile conveys goodwill, cheer and positive thoughts, and a smile has the power to break down barriers, brighten people’s days and make new friends. One thing for sure, when you wear a smile, you will have friends, and when you choose to frown, you will get wrinkles. I would go so far as to say that a smile has changed someone’s life and set their feet on a more positive path, because the smile conveyed kindness, caring and encouragement. My dad always told us to smile because it increases our face value. Smiles are certainly prettier than frowns. I’ll admit that some days it is very hard to smile as troubles come, problems arise and the smile gets knocked right off your face. Nat King Cole
was known for the song, “Smile.” The words say it all, “Smile, though your heart is aching, smile even though it’s breaking, when there are clouds in the sky, you’ll get by.” One of the things we get most excited about is when a new baby smiles at us. We make silly faces and sounds trying to get them to do it again. So, smiling is something we learn to do even when we can’t do much of anything else. Just think of all the opportunities you get in a day to smile about, a sweet memory, a loved one’s face coming to your mind, walking by a mirror, or remembering the punch line of a joke or an unexpected visit from an old friend. Nothing you wear is more important than your smile. I can remember when I was grumpy, as a kid, my mom would tell me, “Now, don’t you smile”, and soon, no matter how hard I tried not to smile, I would find myself smiling and then giggling. Sometimes, we just need to encourage, even challenge someone to smile. A smile breaking through is like the sun coming out on a dreary day. Besides, if you are smiling, it makes people wonder what you are up to!
Harking Back____________
By Barb Croessman
25 years ago
After 22 seasons and two Class A State Championships, Coach Dick Corn announced his retirement Sunday at the conclusion of the annual PCHS Basketball Awards Banquet… Du Quoin City officials, Chamber of Commerce members and McDonald’s corporate officials broke ground on Monday, April 3, for the franchise’s new Du Quoin location on S. Washington St. The site is just yards away from the town’s 20-year-old restaurant in the Southtowne Shopping Center and will occupy four lots that had homes and a used car lot…Spruel and Maxine Bullock are opening a new greenhouse at their home outside Coello. She is 89 and he is 84, and the couple say that after selling their Pinckneyville greenhouses two years ago and taking care of some medical bills, they couldn’t give it up…Jeff Robinson and Jim Justice were the top vote-getters in Tuesday’s Du Quoin’s city council election. Also elected to commissioner seats were Angela Roach and Larry Brown.
50 years ago
Mr. and Mrs. Gene Gallmeister announce the engagement of their daughter, Jean Ellen, to Mark Bullock of Du Quoin. Miss Gallmeister is presently enrolled at SIU-C and student teaching art at the Pinckneyville Grade School and Jr. High. The prospective bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Lionel Bullock. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from SIU—C in health, P. E. and drivers’ education. He is presently teaching elementary and high school P. E. in the Cahokia school
district…Randy Schrader, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Schrader of Pinckneyville has been selected as one of six Illinois 4-H members to attend the National 4-H Conference in Washington, D. C.
75 years ago A class of 19, including two sets of twins, will be given solemn communion at the first mass at Sacred Heart Church. Following the second mass, the boys and girls will receive scapulars. Members of the solemn communion class include Jean and Janet Bowlin and Eileen and Elaine Koerber, twins. Others are John Schleper George Rolando, William Schaefer, Lorenzo Vitale, Philip Kowzan, Johnn Iffert, Edward Fiorino, Fred Bova, Randall Rees, Linda Joyce Fiorino, Jean Foehrer, Regina Mae Miller, Sharon Davison, Connie Youngman and Kathleen Rodman.
100 years ago
Stanley Kimmel, Du Quoin playwright and freelance writer, and Mrs. Blanche Vignes Davis of New Orleans were married in the latter city on March 15. They are now at the home of his father, D. L. Kemmel, South Division Street and expect to make Du Quoin their home. The bride is a New Orleans woman prominent in literary and social circles, and the daughter of an old southern family. The romance dates back over a period of two years when the newlyweds met in New Orleans, Mr. Kimmel having gone there to deliver a lecture for the Ruth McHenry Stewart Literary Club, in which Mrs. Davis was active.
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news@pinckneyvillepress.com or dqweeklynews@gmail.com.
Daisy
The
Frame building, constructed about 1858, stood on the southeast corner of Main and Oak Streets
housed J.L Ragland’s Saloon. The building was removed to make way for the Maclin and Howell building, which was erected in 1910. (Photo from the collection of Robert Morefield). If
When,’ contact us at 357-NEWS or email us at
Provided by the Perry County Jail Museum
Martha Ellen Rath
Martha Ellen Rath, 90, of Elkville, passed away at 11:40 A.M., Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at the Manor Court in Carbondale, IL. Martha had worked for twenty-eight and a half years at Bowlin Foodland. She enjoyed traveling and camping.
She was born April 9, 1935 in Elkville, IL, the daughter of Alfred and Hattie (Barnes) Varnum.
She is survived by three children - Michael Aldridge and Nancy of Elkville, Kathy Swierenga of Du Quoin, and Dennis Aldridge of Elkville, six grandchildren - Keith Aldridge and Shelly of Elkville, Kelly Wisely and Jesse of Vergennes, Blake Aldridge and Amy of Malabar FL, Chasity Brown of Christopher, Aaron Aldridge and Sherry of Elkville, and Roseanna Wimer and Mark of Fairfield, IL, one brother - Frank Varnum of Ft. Myers, FL and many great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother - Gilbert Barnes, one sister - Bernice Riley, and one sonin-law - David Swierenga.
Funeral services will be at 2:00 P.M., Friday, April 3, 2026 at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin with Rev. Gary Pruitt officiating.
Friends may call from Noon until the time of service on Friday at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin.
Burial will be in the Elkville Cemetery in Elkville, IL. Friends may make memorials to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and will be accepted at the funeral home.
For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.
Garden Corner
By April Welch
April’s warmer days make this a great month to plant perennials, cool-season vegetables, and annuals that can handle occasional frosts. April is a good month to help emerging plants for the growing season ahead. Here’s a spring cleaning garden to-do list. Continue to remove garden debris from last year. Shred and compost stems, buds, and leaves, and discard any diseased material. Compost is a great soil amendment. Work compost several inches into the existing soil in annual and vegetable beds. Trees, shrubs, and perennials can be planted in April. Is your spring garden supporting pollinators? Early spring can be a challenging time for bees, moths, and other newly emerging pollinators that are crucial in our ecosystem. Consider where you can add earlier-blooming bulbs and native plants for next spring. When planting bare-root roses, soak the roots in a bucket of water for several hours before planting. Divide mature summer and fall blooming perennials as they emerge, ideally when they are 4 to 6 inches tall. Dividing established plants can increase plant stock for your yard, give overcrowded plants room, and also help prevent more assertive plants from taking over. Doing this task in April gives plant roots time to establish themselves throughout the growing season. Fertilize spring blooming bulbs with a granular 5-10-5 or 10-10-10 mix as new green growth emerges or when they finish flowering. Remove spent flowers but leave foliage to wither completely before removing it. The foliage is needed to photosynthesize (i.e., manufacture food), which feeds the bulbs to support the next year’s blooms. Divide clumps of older bulbs in need of rejuvenation. Replant bulbs in a sunny spot and water them in well. Remember that bulbs prefer locations that are not heavily watered during their summer dormancy, so avoid overplanting perennial bulbs such as daffodils and tulips in areas where you’ll be planting thirsty summer annuals. If peony plants experienced fungal problems in previous years, spray newly emerging plants with an approved fungicide when the plants are 2 to 4 inches tall. When peonies reach 10 inches, use stakes or hoops to support their blossoms. Remove mulch and carefully hose away mounded soil that may have been added in the fall. Rose shrubs can be pruned when new growth begins and buds begin to plump. When pruning roses, make a 45-degree cut above a healthy bud, angled away from the center of the plant. Plant trees and shrubs before they break bud and when soil conditions permit. Avoid planting too deeply. The flare of the tree, where the top roots emerge from the trunk, should be planted just above the ground. Mulch the entire root zone with 2 to 3 inches of compost, leaf or bark mulch, keeping it away from the trunk of the tree. A general rule is that it is not necessary to use synthetic fertilizers for trees and shrubs unless the plants exhibit a nutrient deficiency. Good soil nutrition and a 2- to 3-inch layer of compost placed around your trees and shrubs on a yearly basis should be sufficient for good plant health. If necessary, spray fruit trees with dormant oil for insect control. If fungal problems or insects were a problem last year, start spraying with an approved fungicide as soon as the leaf buds begin to swell and open. If weeds were a problem last year, spread a pre-emergent weed control over your lawn as weather and temperature permit. Follow label directions. These garden tips should keep you busy the rest of the month. Until next time, happy gardening, friends!
Kay Ellen Atkins
Kay Ellen Atkins, 73, of Du Quoin, passed away at 12:05 P.M., Saturday, April 4, 2026 at the SIH Memorial Hospital in Carbondale.
Kay had been a homemaker. She was a member of Faith Assembly of God Church in Du Quoin. Kay enjoyed crocheting, sewing, crafting, and jigsaw puzzles. She also enjoyed spending time with her family.
She was born September 28, 1952 in Du Quoin, IL, the daughter of Raymond and Anna Louise (Cavins) Kennedy.
She married Brian D. Atkins on December 14, 2009 in Mt. Vernon, IL and he preceded her in death.
She is survived by three children - Jason Vancil and Brandi, Amy Ramsey and Jason, and Renee Browning and Christopher, all of Du Quoin, step daughter - Ericka Atkins of Du Quoin, step son - Travis Atkins and Tina of Du Quoin, grandniece - Meleny Rucks of Du Quoin, nine grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and one sister - Carol Dickens.
Private family interment service will be held at the I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Du Quoin at a later date.
Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.
For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.
Gary Wayne George
Gary Wayne George, 69, of Du Quoin, passed away at 5:55 A.M., Friday, April 3, 2026 at the SIH Memorial Hospital in Carbondale, IL.
Gary had been a torchman at Cobin Salvage Yard for over thirty years. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Du Quoin.
He was born April 24, 1956 in Du Quoin, IL, the son of Clyde Noel and Betty Louise (Karr) George.
He is survived by one granddaughter - Chelsea Gray and husband Dierick, three great granddaughters - Ember Gray, Avery Gray, and Saydee Gray, all of Missouri, one sister - Ruth Ann Carrothers and husband Rodney of Du Quoin and his dog Ozzie.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one sonGary Wayne George, Jr., four brothers - James Edward George, Virgil Lee George, Paul Dean George and Elvin Ellis George and his dog - Dasher.
Celebration of Life service will be at 2:00 P.M., Sunday, April 12, 2026 at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin with Rev. Joe Wagner officiating.
Friends may call from 1:00 P.M. until the time of service on Sunday at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin.
Friends may make memorials to the First Baptist Church in Du Quoin and will be accepted at the funeral home.
For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.
William F. Hamburger
William F. Hamburger, 87, of Du Quoin, passed away at 3:25 A.M., Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at the Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, IN.
Bill had been owner and operator of B & J True Value and B & J Lawn Equipment in Du Quoin for fifty years. He co-owned the stores with Jesse Coffel. He was a member of the Gospel Assembly Church in Du Quoin. Bill had been a Sunday School teacher, taught Bible School and was church secretary. He had sung in the choir and quartet. Bill had been a United States Navy veteran. His family meant everything to him.
He was born August 11, 1938 in Du Quoin, IL, the son of Dedrich H. and Thelma (Morrisey) Hamburger.
He married Shirley E. Brock on September 7, 1962 in Du Quoin, IL and she preceded him in death on February 16, 2013.
He is survived by two sons - Larry Hamburger and Dennis Hamburger and wife Lesley, all of Du Quoin, grandchildren - Brandon Hamburger and wife Amanda, Bryce Hamburger and wife Alissa, Hannah Sims and husband Ryan, Emily Townes and husband Tanner, Jon Hamburger and wife Jamielle, Josh Hamburger and wife Jessica, Brock Hamburger, and Ella Hamburger, eleven great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, one son - Gary Hamburger, one sister - Esther King, and two brothers - Galen Hamburger and Wayne Hamburger.
Funeral services will be at 10:00 A.M., Friday, April 3, 2026 at the Gospel Assembly Church in Du Quoin with Rev. Gaylen Holden officiating.
Friends may call from 5 to 7 P.M., Thursday at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin and from 9 A.M. until the time of service at the church on Friday.
Burial will be in the Sunset Memorial Park in Du Quoin.
Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Du Quoin V.F.W. and American Legion and the United States Navy.
Friends may make memorials to Gospel Assembly Church in Du Quoin or Marion VA CLC and will be accepted at the funeral home.
For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.
April 8: Du Quoin Public Library Wits Workout Class #1 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
April 8: Du Quoin Public Library Ukulele Workshop at 1 p.m.
April 9: Du Quoin Public Library Senior and Junior Volunteer Day.
April 9: Chair Exercises Tuesday and Thursday 10:30 am -11:30am. Free event held at Marshall Browning Estates. Call Cass for more information at 618-542-8216 or just show up.
April 9: St. Bruno Catholic School’s Registration & Open House. From 3pm-6pm come register your child for the 2026-27 school year in the school cafeteria. Open to the public for any students PreK-8th grade. Call 618-387-8276 for more information.
April 11: Benefit Dart Tournament to help Bruce Cope with ongoing cancer treatments at The Mill located at 702 W. Yung St. in Sesser. True Blind Draw -Added money $150. Sign up at 11 a.m. and darts start at 1 p.m. with a $20 entry fee. There will be a 50/50 drawing, silent auction items, and pulled pork meal for $10. Food and Beverages available for purchase.
April 11: Steve Priebe’s Retirement Open House from 2 pm - 5 pm at Taps & Vine Social House in Pinckneyville. No Gifts Requested.
April 12: Du Quoin Flea Market at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds Expo Hall. 8:30am-3pm $2 admission. Early bird 7am-8:30am $3 admission.
April 13: Du Quoin Public Library Toddler Story Time 11:30 a.m.
April 14 & 16: Chair Exercises Tuesday and Thursday 10:30 am -11:30am. Free event held at Marshall Browning Estates. Call Cass for more information at 618-542-8216 or just show up.
April 15: Du Quoin Public Library Wits Workout Class #2 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
April 16: Du Quoin Public Library Book Club 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
April 18; Perry County Humane Society presents Spay-Ghetti No Balls dinner at Haffner Hall 16 N. Walnut St in Du Quoin. Adults $10, Kids 10 and under $5. Carryouts available. Lots of prizes to win in raffles. 4:30pm-7:30pm.
April 20: Du Quoin Public Library Toddler Story Time 11:30 a.m. Also National Library Week.
April 21 & 23: Chair Exercises Tuesday and Thursday 10:30 am -11:30am. Free event held at Marshall Browning Estates. Call Cass for more information at 618-542-8216 or just show up.
April 22: Du Quoin Public Library Wits Workout Class # 3 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
April 22: Du Quoin Public Library Ukulele Workshop at 1 p.m.
April 25: Du Quoin Public Library 4th Annual Golf Scramble at 1 p.m.
April 27: Du Quoin Public Library Toddler Story Time 11:30 a.m.
April 28 & 30: Chair Exercises Tuesday and Thursday 10:30 am -11:30am. Free event held at Marshall Browning Estates. Call Cass for more information at 618-542-8216 or just show up.
May 1: Pinckneyville Music Association Presents Name That Tune Trivia Night at KC Hall in Pinckneyville. 6pm registration. Game Time 6:30pm. $100 per table- 8 people max per table. Contact Mrs. Nichols at 618-357-5013 X312 to reserve yours today. Live Auction, Raffles, 50/50, KC Hall wings $1 & Drinks for purchase.. All proceeds benefit the PJHS & PCHS band and choir programs.
May 2: Perry County Historical Society Dining in History 6-9pm at St. Paul UCC 205 E. Jackson St. in Pinckneyville. Featuring historians with focus on Southern Illinois and the American frontier. Meal by Kitten’s Catering. Silent Auction. $30 per person. eservations required by April 22. Questions Call 618-357-0075.
May 6: United Mine Workers of America Retiree Meeting will be held at the Pinckneyville Columbian Club, 312 N. Gordon St. at 9 a.m.
Want your event listed in the “Happenings” section? Find out how. Contact ads@pinckneyvillepress.com, dqweeklyads@gmail.com, or Call us at 357-6397 for information.
Pinckneyville Optimist Club Easter Egg Hunt
Plastic Easter eggs were ar-
moved indoors last
The Board of Education of Pinckneyville Community High School District # 101 will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. during their Regular Monthly Meeting at 600 East Water St., Pinckneyville, Illinois 62274, in the Media Center. The purpose of said hearing will be to
application to allow the district to permit non-resident students of employees from Pinckneyville District 50, Pinckneyville District 204, Tamaroa Grade School District 5, and Pinckneyville St. Bruno to attend Pinckneyville Community High School District No. 101 school free of charge.
DATED this 7th day of April, 2026. Board of Education of Pinckneyville High School District # 101 Perry County, Illinois
Pinckneyville Garden Club Annual Plant Sale April 25
The Pinckneyville Garden Club will host its third Annual Plant Sale on Saturday, April 25, at the Murphy-Wall parking lot, 105 E Water St, Pinckneyville, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (or until all plants are sold). Rain or shine! The Pinckneyville Garden Club has contributed to the Welcome Signs, Planters on Freedom Street, Trees planted by the railroad tracks, Blue and Gold Star markers, and a donation towards Baby Sarah’s playground project, and additional projects this year will include planting the planters at the city park and a scholarship for
a Pinckneyville Community High School student going to college. Most of the plants for the Annual Plant Sale come from members’ gardens, so they are local to this area. Sun and shade perennials, herbs, shrubs, grasses, bulbs, annual varieties, and additional garden items will be available at the sale. Members will be available to assist with gardening tips, answer questions, and offer suggestions about the varieties of plants at the sale. The Plant Sale is an annual spring fundraiser, with profits benefiting the club’s main emphasis on helping to make our com-
munity an attractive place to live. The Pinckneyville Garden Club welcomes new members who are interested in gardening, enjoy civic work, and are dedicated to maintaining community gardens and getting involved with a great group of gardeners. If interested in joining the club, contact a member for more information.
The Pinckneyville Garden Club was organized in 2023 and will celebrate its third year as a new club of gardening in our community this year. We meet on the first Thursday of the month at the Pinckneyville Community Center.
Above Left: Pictured are bicycle winners Renn Kuhnert, Austyn Kellerman, Hayley Stutes, Everett Brand, Audrey Ramsey and Casen Williams. The bikes were donated by Peabody Energy’s Gateway North Mine. Above Right: Children in the 2-to-3-year-old age group pick up Easter eggs.
ranged in the Auxiliary Gym of Pinckneyville Community High School prior to Pinckneyville Optimist Club’s event. The event was
Saturday due to the rain. Optimist Club members in attendance were Heather Lee, Ray Smith, Larry West, Robert Hepburn, Mike Kovic and Greg Halke. Others helping for the event were Randal Brand, Christina Brand, Jordan Brand, Dakota Behiter, Trisha Chandler, Darron Chandler, Donnie Kiacannon and Dustin Patterson. The Pinckneyville Police Department also assisted with the event.
Above Left: Pictured is $50 winner Axel Brand with Teen Princess Flame Presley Reeves. Above Center: Bicycle winners in the 6-to-8-year-old age group, Casen Williams and Audrey Ramsey are pictured with Teen Princess Flame Presley Reeves. Above Right: Pictured is $50 winner Lakelyn Dimos with Teen Princess Flame Presley Reeves. Right: Pictured are $50 winners Haidyn Spain and Hudson Tabing with Teen Princess Flame Presley Reeves.
Left: Teen Princess Flame Presley Reeves poses with the Easter Bunny. Above Left: Teen Princess Flame Presley Reeves draws out the winners of the bicycles in the 2-to-3-year-old group in buckets held by Mike Kovic. Above Center: Pictured is $50 winner Walker Phillips with his father, Zach, and the Easter Bunny. Above Right: Pictured is $50 winner Renn Kuhnert with his money and the Easter Bunny.
Above Left: Children in the 6-to-8-year-old age group hunt for Easter eggs. Above Right: Children in the 4-to-5-year-old age group hunt for Easter eggs.
35th Annual Du Quoin Community Easter Egg Hunt
The Flag That Never Came Down
In 1814 the British were once again trying to gain control of the American Colonies they had lost in the Revolutionary War. Admiral Cockburn led the British troops and he bragged that he would capture the U.S. Flag in three hours. One of the persons he arrested in the meantime was Dr. William Beanes, a sixty-five year old doctor who had arrested three British soldiers. A friend of the doctor’s, named Francis Scott Key, went aboard the Tonnant warship to see about getting him released. Because Key and Beanes were around when British plans were being made for the attack, they were detained aboard the ship during the attack on Fort McHenry. The battle went on all night, with five bomb ships with one hundred and ninety pound cast-iron bombs, lined up in front, and a rocket ship just behind them. Key and Dr. Beanes were on the Minden, out in harbor, as the battle went on. Key had a spyglass and could see the flag, which flew over the gray stone fort which was defended by a thousand men, who had little chance against the ship cannon. The fort’s cannons were much smaller. The commander of the fort, Major George Armistead had told the people of
Baltimore, “WE WILL NEVER GIVE UP! OUR FLAG WILL NEVER COME DOWN!”
The flag over the fort was only a week old. It was the largest American flag ever made, forty-two feet long and thirty feet wide. It had fifteen white stars on a blue union and fifteen red 5 and white stripes, and had been made by Mrs. Mary Pickersgill who made ships’ flags for a living. It had cost four hundred dollars. At six o’clock Tuesday morning, September 13, 1814, the British ships had opened fire. Hours passed. By noon the flag still flew over Fort McHenry. All day the fighting went on. That evening, in the darkness you could see the bursting of the rockets. Once in a while Key could see the American flag. Then came the announcement that the ships were moving in closer. The ships let boats down into the water and British soldiers moved toward the fort. Suddenly the fort’s guns opened fire at the soldiers in the boats! They were so surprised they bumped into each other, and then began turning around, running back to the ships. But if the soldiers couldn’t row in, at least the Admiral could keep on his bombing of the fight. And he did. All the rest of the night. About
seven the next morning the bombing stopped and the smoke and mist hid the fort from Key’s view. He was wet and tired, and wondering if the fort had surrendered. Suddenly the mist and smoke blew away enough for him to see –the flag was still there! It was still there – with eleven holes in it! But it was still there! The British turned tail and left, after failing to bring down the American flag. Key wrote of his feelings when he saw the flag still flying over the fort, and after writing several verses, it was set to the tune of “To Anacreon in Heaven” and sung by Ferdinand Durang who stood on a chair in a tavern, singing to a happy crowd. In 1931 it finally became our national song. The flag now hangs in the Smithsonian Institute in our national capital city, Washington, D.C., and is a breath-taking sight. And the flag has never come down over Fort McHenry. It is one of the places in the United States where it flies day and night, by Presidential Proclamation. Major Armistead’s promise to Baltimore is now a promise delivered to all the people of the United States of America: “WE WILL NEVER GIVE UP” he said, “OUR FLAG WILL NEVER COME DOWN
The Easter bunny arrived to this year’s egg hunt to greet the children and give out prizes before and after the hunt.
The 35th Annual Du Quoin Community Easter Egg Hunt was held on April 4 at 10 a.m. sharp. Age groups 1-3 yrs, 4-6 yrs and 7-9 yrs. hunted eggs at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds horse arena. This year’s 35th annual hunt was sponsored by: The Du Quoin Jaycees, Volunteer Foundation, Inc., Preceptor Alpha Eta Society and Fairview Rehabilitation & Healthcare.
Pinckneyville Baseball/Softball Split Conference Opener
By Pete Spitler Weekly-Press
PINCKNEYVILLE –
An early three-run lead wasn’t large enough, as Pinckneyville saw West Frankfort score all seven of its runs (including five in the seventh inning) over the final three innings to steal a 7-5 win over the Panthers in their SIRR Mississippi Division opener on Monday at Rigdon Field. Cole Taylor drove in two runs and Kolton Smith, J.D. Kellerman, Michael Brand and Abel Clark all had two hits apiece for Pinckneyville (7-2, 0-1 SIRR Mississippi), which led 3-0 after four innings and still held a 4-2 edge going into
the seventh thanks to an RBI groundout by Dylan Keller in the bottom of the sixth. It started to fall apart with one on and one out in the seventh, when Jase Bennett reached on an error by Clark at shortstop.
Canaan Shupe was next and hit a two-run double to center that tied the game at 4.
Chris Samples followed with an RBI single that scored Shupe and gave the Redbirds the lead for the first time in the contest. That was all for Smith, who was replaced by Kellerman on the bump.
Chace Patterson hit a double, and Will Scales provided a two-run single as West Frankfort’s lead
By Pete Spitler Weekly-Press
DU QUOIN – Mt. Ver-
non coach Pierce Borah gambled once and lost. He gambled the second time and came out a winner.
The Rams built a 5-1 lead through four-and-ahalf innings, but later had to hold on for dear life in a 6-5 win over Du Quoin on April 1 at Don Stanhouse Field.
Mt. Vernon starter Max
Nowak had been having a good outing, limiting the Indians to one run on a two-out single by Noah Siefert in the bottom of the fourth that tied the game at 1.
The Rams gave Nowak some run support in the top of the fifth, scoring four runs off Du Quoin starter Max Maynor on two doubles, two singles and an error.
In the bottom of the inning, Nowak struck out
Maynor to start but then walked Quade McPherson and Brayden Learned. Borah strolled out from the dugout to speak with Nowak, but left him in and Nowak then walked Jeremiah Jones to load the bases.
Cy Craft was next and hit a two-run single to left field to cut Mt. Vernon’s lead to 5-3. That was all for Nowak, who was replaced by Ryker Perigo. Pedigo struck out
grew to 7-4. After hitting Parker Allen with a pitch, Kellerman got back-to-back strikeouts to finally stop the bleeding. West Frankfort turned the ball over to Bennett in the bottom of the inning. Bennett struck out J.J. Higgerson, but then gave up a triple to Smith. Ayden Buza was next and hit an RBI single to right that brought in Smith and cut Pinckneyville’s deficit to 7-5.
Bennett then got Reed Marlow to ground into a 1-3 putout and Kellerman flew out to center to end the game. Smith took the loss for the Panthers, allowing five runs (three earned) on four
Indians Can’t Complete Comeback in Loss to Rams
Parker Brown for the second out, but the Indians later added their fourth run on a passed ball that scored Jones.
After a scoreless sixth inning, Mt. Vernon got a run back in the top of the seventh thanks to a dropped third strike on a wild pitch that brought T. Pierce across the plate for a 6-4 Rams advantage.
In the bottom of the seventh, Perigo struck out Jones before giving
up a walk and a single by Parker Brown to bring the potential game-winning run to the plate.
A wild pitch then moved both runners over a base. That brought out Borah for another visit to the mound for a chat with Perigo, but - like he did with Nowak two innings earlier - he decided to leave him in. Carter Miller was next and he drove in Craft on a sacrifice fly to left field
before getting Noah Siefert to watch strike three on a 3-2 count to end the game.
Maynor took the loss for Du Quoin (6-2), allowing five runs (four earned) on seven hits with one walk and three strikeouts. Nowak got the win for Mt. Vernon (5-4), with Perigo earning the save. As a team, the Indians were out-hit 7-4 and committed four errors in the field in the loss.
We’re excited to announce that Dr. Olayinka Otukpe* (OH-too-pay) will be joining our Medical Clinic. Most recently practicing in Nashville, TN, Dr. Otukpe is a family medicine physician with broad
Left: Du Quoin starting pitcher Max Maynor throws a pitch against Mt. Vernon. Above Left: Du Quoin outfielder Brayden Learned makes the catch at the wall in right field. Above Right: Du Quoin’s Noah Siefert hits a single in the bottom of the fourth inning.
Above Left: Du Quoin’s Cy Craft hits a two-run single to left field in the bottom of the fifth inning.
Above Right: Du Quoin’s Max Maynor hits a single to lead off the bottom of the sixth inning. Right: Du Quoin head coach Tim Davis makes a visit to the mound in the top of the fourth inning.
hits with four walks and six strikeouts in six and one-thirds innings.
Samples earned the win for West Frankfort (43, 1-0 SIRR Mississippi), allowing four earned runs on eight hits with no walks and six strikeouts in six innings of action.
Next door on the softball field, the Lady Panthers scored 11 runs in the bottom of the second inning to ultimately runrule West Frankfort, 15-5, in five innings.
fourth and fifth innings to end the game early.
The Lady Redbirds (36, 0-1 SIRR Mississippi) plated four runs in the top of the third to cut Pinckneyville’s lead to 13-5, but the Lady Panthers added solo runs in the
Addi Kellerman went 2-for-4 with a double and three RBIs for Pinckneyville (5-3, 1-0 SIRR Mississippi), which also got three RBIs from Izzie Hicks and three hits from Ella Keene.
Keene picked up the win in the circle, allowing all five earned runs on four hits with four walks and six strikeouts.
Pinckneyville’s diamond squads were scheduled for their first Battle of the Beaucoup contest with their longtime rival, Du Quoin, this past Tuesday after the WeeklyPress went to print for this week’s edition.
First Baptist Church 3-on-3 Winners
Left: Pinckneyville’s Dylan Keller makes contact with a pitch. Above Left: Pinckneyville’s Kolton Smith throws a pitch on Monday during the Panthers’ SIRR Mississippi Division opener against West Frankfort. Above Right: Pinckneyville third baseman Dylan Keller fields a ground ball.
Above Left: Pinckneyville’s Izzie Hicks hits an RBI single to left field. Above Right: Panthers senior J.D. Kellerman puts the ball into play. Kellerman had two hits and an RBI for Pinckneyville. Right: Pinckneyville senior pitcher Ella Keene winds up for a toss against West Frankfort on Monday.
Pictured are the First Baptist Church 3-on-3 winners for 3rd and 4th grade: Jay Ruppert, Sawyer Graskewicz, Gage Graskewicz and Austin Woodside.
Pictured are the First Baptist Church 3-on-3 winners for 7th and 8th grade: Grady Pursell, Silas Bauersachs, Kannon Kowzan and Houston Hicks.
Pictured are the First Baptist Church 3-on-3 winners for 5th and 6th grade boys: Luca Zubia, Jackson Martin, Lance Martin and Paden Nehrkorn.
Pictured are the First Baptist Church 3-on-3 winners for 5th and 6th grade girls: Abby Clark, Paisley Szopinski and Reagyn Brewer.
Above: Lady Panther Ava Maxey clubs a ball into play. Below: Pinckneyville right fielder Aubrey Marlow prepares to catch a fly ball.
Pinckneyville 204 Hosts Pee Wee Track Meet
meet with 72 points. Photo courtesy of Jana Valentine.
Weekly-Press Sports Roundup
By Pete Spitler Weekly-Press
• Baseball
Pinckneyville 7, Trico 1
CAMPBELL HILL –Kolton Smith went 3-for-3 with a double and an RBI, and Pinckneyville scored four of its runs in the back half of a win over Trico on March 31.
Reed Marlow, J.D. Kellerman and Dylan Keller all drove in two RBIs a piece for the Panthers (6-1), who allowed the lone run in the bottom of the third inning after building a 3-0 lead.
Ayden Buza got the win for Pinckneyville, pitching six innings and allowing the lone earned run to go along with four hits and five walks while striking out six.
Pinckneyville 10, Eldorado 0 (5 Inn.)
PINCKNEYVILLE
– J.D. Kellerman went 2-for-3 with a double and two RBIs, and Pinckneyville scored eight of its runs in the bottom of the third inning in a win over Eldorado on April 2.
Cole Taylor also drove in two runs for the Panthers (7-1), who out-hit the Eagles 10-2 in run-ruling them in five innings.
Dylan Keller got the win on the mound for Pinckneyville, allowing two walks in addition to the two hits while striking out four.
Breese Central 2, Du Quoin 0
DU QUOIN – Parker Brown managed Du Quoin’s lone hit to leadoff the bottom of the fourth inning, but the Indians fell to Breese Central on April 3.
The Cougars (6-2) got an RBI single from Alex Athmer in the fifth and a run-scoring double from Bryce Wieter in the top of the seventh for The Indians (6-3) struggled offensively against the pitching tandem of Athmer and Wieter, who combined for nine strikeouts and one
walk.
Athmer also hit three batters. Carter Miller took the loss for Du Quoin, allowing one earned run on six hits with two walks and five strikeouts in five and two-thirds innings of work. Jeremiah Jones replaced him and allowed Breese Central’s second run on two hits with two strikeouts and no walks in an inning and a third of relief.
Du Quoin 2, Benton 0
BENTON – Brayden Learned’s pinch-hit tworun single in the top of the sixth inning was enough, as Du Quoin won its SIRR Mississippi Division opener over Benton on Monday.
Max Maynor got the complete-game win on the mound for the Indians (7-3, 1-0 SIRR Mississippi), who struggled offensively against Benton starter Hunter Irvin.
Irvin held Du Quoin to just three hits over five scoreless innings, with the Indians breaking through against Rangers reliever Kruz Koester. Benton fell to 5-5 overall and 0-1 in the division with the loss.
• Softball Trico 7, Pinckneyville 4
CAMPBELL HILL –Izzie Hicks had three hits and Ella Keene and Addi Kellerman drove in runs, but Pinckneyville watched Trico score six runs in the fifth and sixth innings to beat the Lady Panthers on March 31.
Ava Maxey had two hits for Pinckneyville (4-3), who led 3-1 after four and a half innings, but the Lady Pioneers plated three runs in the bottom of the fifth to take the lead.
Pinckneyville tied the game at 4 with a run in the top of the sixth, but Trico replied with three more runs in the bottom of the inning for the final score.
Ella Keene took the loss in the circle for the
Lady Panthers, allowing all seven earned runs on eight hits with nine walks and four strikeouts.
Du Quoin 8, Benton 5 BENTON – Laney Vancil went 3-for-4 with a double and two RBIs, and a six-run first inning was enough to propel Du Quoin past Benton on Monday. Vancil also got the win in the circle for the Lady Indians (7-3, 1-0 SIRR Mississippi), who got two RBIs from Jade Wood and led 8-3 through six-anda-half innings before the Rangerettes plated their final two runs in the bottom of the seventh.
• Soccer
Murphysboro 9, Pinckneyville 0 MURPHYSBORO –Callie Decker scored three goals and added an assist, and Izzie Doerr tallied twice to help Murphysboro shut out Pinckneyville on March 31.
The Lady Panthers dropped to 3-2 on the season with the loss.
Mt. Vernon 9, Du Quoin 0 DU QUOIN – Amiyah Graves and Evie Jetton scored twice, and Mt. Vernon scored six of its goals in the first half to keep Du Quoin winless on the season on March 31.
Five other players scored goals for the Lady Rams (4-1), who used three different goalkeepers to earn the clean sheet.
Du Quoin dropped to 0-6 with the loss, as the Lady Indians are still looking for their first goal of the 2026 campaign. Harrisburg 9, Pinckneyville 0 HARRISBURG – Harrisburg scored six goals in the first half and ended the game early with three in the second in a win over Pinckneyville on Monday. The Lady Bulldogs improved to 8-1 overall and 4-0 in the SIRR Conference with the win. Pinckneyville dropped to 3-3 and 1-2 in conference play.
Pictured are Pinckneyville 204 students Zoe Searby (4th grade), Rylin Lunnemann (5th grade), Lacy Bathon (5th grade) Sierra Turpin (5th grade), Emilee Deering (5th grade) and Dayla Kelly (5th grade) during the medicine ball toss event.
Pictured are, from left, Henry Hill (5th grade), Reid Mathis (4th grade), Lincoln Sturgill (4th grade), Brayden Bailey (3rd grade), Henry Simon (4th grade) and Kyler Smith (4th grade) during the boys’ 50-meter dash.
Pictured are Pinckneyville 204 students Maddie Burdel (4th grade), Tennyson Logan (4th grade), Rylin Lunnemann (5th grade), Reese Heine (5th grade), Sylvia Haas (3rd grade), Kianne Hampton (3rd grade) and Thelma Kringer (3rd grade) during the girls’ 50-meter dash.
Pinckneyville 204’s Grace Rakers (4th grade), Raeden Willi (5th grade), Jovee Rulevish (4th grade), Alayna Justynski (3rd grade), Harper Kellerman and Emery Heisner (3rd grade) compete in the girls’ 50-meter dash.
Pinckneyville 204 students Parker Fullerton (5th grade), Vance Gerber (4th grade), Zane Fisher (3rd Grade), Slader Crouse (5th grade) and Novelle Kellerman (5th Grade), take off from the start of the 400-meter run.
Pinckneyville 204 hosted its Pee Wee Track Meet on Monday for its third through fifth grade students. Pictured are the Blue Tornadoes, who won the
The Pinckneyville 204 Blazing Turtles finished in fourth place with 47 points. Photo courtesy of Jana Valentine.
The Pinckneyville 204 Tater Trotters took third place with 52 points. Photo courtesy of Jana Valentine.
The Pinckneyville 204 Zippy Zebras were the runner-up squad with 65 points. Photo courtesy of Jana Valentine.
Lady Indians Shut Out By Mt. Vernon at Van Metre
Pinckneyville Soccer Falls to Murphysboro on the Road
Five-Run Fourth Inning Dooms Lady Indians Against Trico
Left: Du Quoin’s Anna Phipps tries to get possession of the ball away from Mt. Vernon’s DAmiya Farley. Above Left: Du Quoin’s Mattie Brown blocks a Mt. Vernon pass with her chest. Above Right: Du Quoin goalkeeper Sarah Guetersloh makes a save with Mt. Vernon’s Maria Baquero in front of her.
Above Left: Lady Indians goalkeeper Sarah Guetersloh makes a save during Du Quoin’s game against Mt. Vernon. Above Right: Du Quoin’s Serenity Bloomfield attempts to block the pass attempt of Mt. Vernon’s Miley Chancey. Right: Du Quoin’s Ellyette Ralston and Mt. Vernon’s Maria Baquero pursue the ball.
DU QUOIN – Du Quoin kept the early lead for three innings, but Trico put together a five-run fourth inning to ultimately beat the Lady Indians, 6-1, last Friday.
Du Quoin (6-3) struck first in the bottom of the first inning, plating its first and only run on a two-out ground ball single by Alivia Hill to left field that plated Lucy Milam. The score stayed that way until the top of the fourth, when a one-out
double by Jayci Casten seemed to uncork the Lady Pioneers’ offense. Molly Rathert grounded out to short for the second out, but Emma Williams stepped in and tied the game on an RBI single to center field.
By Pete Spitler Weekly-Press
Above Left: Pinckneyville’s Stella Crews looks to kick the ball downfield during the second half. Above Right: Pinckneyville’s Addison Leonard battles Murphysboro’s Callie Decker to get to the ball. Right: Pinckneyville’s Vivian Quinn attempts to kick the ball away from Murphysboro’s Jace Olson.
Above Left: Pinckneyville’s Madalynn Mohr looks to block the kick of Murphysboro’s Olivia Sunny. Above Right: Pinckneyville’s Lia Farlow throws the ball in during the first half.
Left: Du Quoin pitcher Alivia Hill and third baseman Lucy Milam collide as they both chase a pop fly. Hill made the catch for the out. Above Left: Du Quoin’s Laney Vancil smacks the ball into play. Above Right: Lady Indians shortstop Laney Vancil looks to make the relay throw to first base after fielding a grounder.
Above Left: Du Quoin shortstop Laney Vancil attempts to get Trico’s Emma Williams out as she slides into second base. Williams was called safe. Above Right: Du Quoin centerfielder Aubrey Bastien connects on a pitch against Trico. Right: Du Quoin pitcher Alivia Hill tosses a pitch in the top of the second inning.
Left: Pinckneyville head coach Jay Ray talks to his players at halftime. The Lady Panthers fell to Murphysboro, 9-0, on the road on March 31.
Pinckneyville Sweeps Chester Early Sting Meet
Du Quoin Girls Third, Boys Fourth
51.93
CHESTER – Outdoor track and field season has officially begun, with Pinckneyville winning both sides of the Chester Yellow Jacket Early Sting meet on March 31.
The Panthers beat host Chester by 12 points for a team total of 124. With Nashville (109), Du Quoin (83) and Sparta (59) rounding out the top five of 12 schools.
On the girls’ side, the Lady Panthers finished with 130 team points, beating Nashville (104), Du Quoin (69), Gibault Catholic (64) and Chester (60) to round out the top five of 13 schools.
Results for Pinckneyville and Du Quoin are as follows:
• Boys
100-Meter Dash
10. Noah Cranford (DQ), 12.63
15. Elih Bruce (PV), 12.75
18. Brody Harsy (PV), 12.81
21. Enzo Zubia (PV), 12.89
30. Korbin Pike (PV), 13.61
200-Meter Dash
3. Amir Dupre-Grant (DQ), 23.75
4. Mason Hinman (DQ), 24.36
5. Thomas Fisher (PV), 24.52
15.. Zach Knapp (DQ), 25.65
23. Elih Bruce (PV), 26.40
400-Meter Run
2. Christian Queen (PV), 53.82
4. Josh Johnson (PV), 54.78
6. Alec Forbes (PV), 56.06
7. Oakley Jones (DQ), 57.53
9. Miles Doerflein (PV), 57.94
21. Raymond Davis (DQ), 1:04.04
800-Meter Run
1. R.J. Degler (PV), 2:04.99
5. Logan Numi (DQ), 2:14.74
8. Case Kellerman (PV), 2:28.61
20. Connor Meadows (DQ), 2:57.64
21. Braxton Morris (DQ), 3:00.39
25. Ben West (DQ), 3:14.63
1600-Meter Run
1. Zach Teel (PV), 4:45.89
12. Gage Arnett (PV), 5:37.44
3200-Meter Run
1. Landen Boman (PV), 10:40.65
2. Pacer Szopinski (PV), 10:55.11
3. Jesse Winter (PV), 11:22.54
110-Meter Hurdles
1. Noah Yearian (PV), 16.32
3. Jaynen Whitfield (DQ), 17.76
5. Hunter Martin (DQ), 18.59
6. Landon Numi (DQ), 18.74
11. Tyrus Charles (PV), 21.01
300-Meter Hurdles
2. Jaxon Colvin (DQ), 44.25
6. Owen Adcock (PV), 50.32
9. Tyrus Charles (PV),
400-Meter Relay
2. Du Quoin (Cranford, Hinman, Dupre-Grant), 45.93
3. Pinckneyville (Harsy, Kellerman, Zubia), 46.03
800-Meter Relay
2. Pinckneyville (Fisher, Ridgeway, Kellerman, Bruce), 1:41.56
7. Du Quoin (Tuthill, Daly, Green, Vancil), 1:45.15
1600-Meter Relay
1. Pinckneyville A (Degler, Queen, Forbes, Johnson), 3:32.39
4. Pinckneyville B (Boman, Stanton, Teel, Yearian), 3:57.65
3200-Meter Relay
3. Pinckneyville (Degler, Forbes, Johnson, Doerflein), 9:57.65
Shot Put
6. Zaiden Savage (DQ), 39-0.5
9. Josh Bautista-Powell (DQ), 38-8
10. Darius Pate (DQ), 37-9
12. Jace Pryzgoda (PV), 37-3.25
25. Jayton Jenkel (PV), 29-2
29. Chris Galbraith (PV), 27-5 Discus
4. Darius Pate (DQ), 114-4
8. Nolen Thompson (DQ), 106-2
11. Jace Pryzgoda (PV), 102-11
17. Dylan Brammeier (PV), 90-7
18. Jayton Jenkel (PV), 87-10
19. Jeremiah Akins (DQ), 85-4 High Jump
3. Andrew Jones (DQ),
1.75M
3. Owen Adcock (PV), 1.75M
13. Caiden Zachery (PV), 1.55M Pole Vault
1. Landon Numi (DQ), 10-6
2. Zach Knapp (DQ), 9-6 Long Jump
3. Owen Adcock (PV), 5.70M
6. Ayler Keller (PV), 5.40M
8. Ayden Henderson (DQ), 5.36M 16. Thaddeus Kemme (PV), 4.76M Triple Jump
3. Ayler Keller (PV), 11.32M
5. Ayden Henderson (DQ), 11.06M • Girls 100-Meter Dash
5. Mia Suhr (DQ), 14.18
9. Jessi Baggett (PV), 14.78
16. Gracie Martin (PV), 14.98
21. Sara Lewis (DQ), 15.34
26. Rhyan Gothard (PV), 15.79
32. Mackenna Wesseln (PV), 16.41
200-Meter Dash
4. Mia Suhr (DQ), 28.94
6. Jessi Baggett (PV), 29.77
27. Rhyan Gothard (PV), 34.23
400-Meter Run
1. Claira Folden (PV), 1:06.39
2. Jessi Baggett (PV), 1:07.52
13. Emma Knapp (DQ), 1:15.91
16. Mackenna Wesseln (PV), 1:18.33
800-Meter Run
2. Maddy Dill (PV), 2:41.33
3. Ava Gregory (DQ), 2:41.84
1600-Meter Run
8. Hannah Swiney (DQ), 7:16.73
3200-Meter Run
2. Kadence Bruno (PV), 14:12.72
5. Mandy Partin (PV), 16:43.37
100-Meter Hurdles
1. Maggie Niedbalski (PV), 18.23
4. Adison Ichou (DQ), 19.81
5. Aubrey Keller (PV), 19.82
300-Meter Hurdles
1. Remy Hicks (PV), 49.35
2. Adison Ichou (DQ), 52.89
3. Aubrey Keller (PV), 54.11
400-Meter Relay
1. Pinckneyville A (Cooper, K. Folden, Niedbalski, Hicks), 52.22
3. Du Quoin (Jones, Crain, Milam, Taylor), 55.20
9. Pinckneyville B (Martin, Wright, Pasquino), 57.12
800-Meter Relay
5. Du Quoin (Jones, Crain, Milam, Taylor), 1:56.76
9. Pinckneyville A (Knapp-Wright, Keller, Pasquino, Morgan), 2:03.41
10. Pinckneyville B (Martin, Gothard, Yackle, Rixmann), 2:08.60
1600-Meter Relay
3. Pinckneyville A (Dill, K. Folden, C. Folden, Hicks), 4:44.41
5. Pinckneyville B (Yackle, Howell, Brand, Rixmann), 5:03.71
3200-Meter Relay
3. Pinckneyville (Dill, Howell, Brand, Key. Folden), 12:49.96 Shot Put
4. Asiah Smith (DQ), 32-5
5. Violet Searby (DQ), 29-5.5
7. Addi Robinson (PV), 28-6
8. Maggie Numi (PV), 28-2 12. Claire Numi (PV), 27-5.25
24. Addy Dorsey (DQ), 23-2.5 DIscus
4. Addi Robinson (PV), 96-3
5. Violet Searby (DQ), 93-7
7. Anna Bathon (PV), 85-0 15. Graci Laffoon (DQ), 77-1 19. Ashlyn Welch (PV), 64-0 21. Alivia Conte (DQ), 63-2 High Jump 3. Josie Meyer (DQ), 1.47M 8. Bailey Morgan (PV),
(PV),
(PV),
Crain (DQ),
Folden (PV),
Josie Meyer (DQ),
By Pete Spitler Weekly-Press
Left: Du Quoin’s Adi Ichou flies over a hurdle during the 100-meter hurdles as part of the Chester Early Sting meet on March 31. Above Left: Du Quoin’s Jaxon Colvin battles a Red Bud hurdler in the 300-meter hurdles. Above Right: Du Quoin’s Ava Gregory keeps pace with Pinckneyville’s Maddy Dill in the 800-meter run.
Above Left: Du Quoin’s Ava Gregory prepares for the start of her race. Above Right: Pinckneyville’s R.J. Degler takes off from the starting line with Du Quoin’s Logan Numi in the 800-meter run.
Above: Pinckneyville’s Gracie Martin and Du Quoin’s Sara Lewis sprint toward the finish line in the 100-meter dash. Right: Pinckneyville’s Owen Adcock competes in the 300-meter hurdles.
Above Left: Pinckneyville’s Mackenna Wesseln competes in the 400-meter run. Above RIght: Du Quoin’s Raymond Davis competes in the 400-meter run. Right: Pinckneyville’s Remy Hicks leaps over a hurdle in the 300-meter hurdles.
Saluki Football Holds Practice at Van Metre Field
By Pete Spitler
PINCKNEYVILLE –
Just like Ava Maxey a week earlier, Pinckneyville senior Addi Kellerman has signed her national letter-of-intent
to play softball for Rend Lake College.
Kellerman, a Second Team All-Conference infielder as a junior for the Lady Panthers, was batting .360 at the time of her signing with one double and
three RBIs in 25 at-bats this season.
Defensively, she had a fielding percentage of .972, with seven putouts and no errors.
“Well, Chad Todaro is actually my softball coach
for the summer and he’s been coaching me for seven years,” Kellerman said. “I wanted to play softball, but I was looking at D-III schools.
“(Todaro) got the coaching job (at Rend Lake) and I was his first recruit. He texted me right after he found out and it actually worked perfectly because I already have 37 credits built up for Rend Lake, so now I’m going to go there and play softball.”
Kellerman said that academically, she will still be a freshman as she is planning on getting three different degrees: An Associate in Arts, an Associate in Science and an Associate in Engineering.
“I’m going to major in pre-engineering at Rend Lake and then hopefully transfer to a four-year (university) to continue my engineering degree,” Kellerman said. “I haven’t fully decided on which field I want to go into.
“I’ve looked into biomedical, electrical, civil and mechanical, but I haven’t fully made my decision.”
Kellerman is now a three-year starter in softball
and a two-year starter in basketball. She also played volleyball for three years.
As far as some of her favorite athletic moments as a Lady Panther, Kellerman highlighted Coach Alan Engelhardt’s “Panther” tactic during practices.
“If coach yells ‘Panther’ at practice, we all have to run to him,” Kellerman said. “There have been so many times when people have fallen or tripped over something.”
“Those are always funny,” Kellerman said. “I always make sure I’m standing as close as I can to him and I always know when he’s usually about to call it.
“If you’re the last one to the circle, you have to do five push-ups and I’ve only had to do five pushups just once in all my four years.”
Outside of sports, Kellerman has been part of the Pinckneyville Music Makers for the past three yearsand names “Mamma Mia!” as her favorite musical she has been a part of - Green Team, MAPS, Million Words Club, Student Council, ACES and Beta Club.
As for what she’s look-
ing for out of her senior season, Kellerman said she’s looking forward to making memories with her teammates in her final high school season.
“With Ava and Madison (Bruns), I’ve played with them since fifth, sixth grade when we first started,” she said. “Ella (Keene), we played Lunatic ball together, which is like travel ball at 10U.
“We’ve played together for so long and Ava and I are going to Rend Lake, so I’m excited to continue those memories.” Kellerman was asked if playing together at Rend Lake was something she and Maxey had talked about.
“When the old coach was there, she signed with him,” Kellerman said of Maxey. “I just never really got a hold of the old coach, so we didn’t really think about it.
“I put Rend Lake on the back burner. I was like, ‘If I have to, I can’ because I was already going there as a student and then all this happened and it worked perfectly.”
Above Left: SIU safety Grant Thompson works with a young Saluki fan. Above Right: Pinckneyville Com-
munity High School alumnus and SIU tight end Karsen Konkel points out position during a punt drill. Right: Du Quoin High School alumnus Gage Green stretches for a pass during receiver drills as part of SIU’s practice at Van Metre Field last Friday.
Left: SIU head football coach and DHS alumnus Nick Hill points out locations for “kid indy” drills with the SIU players. Above: PCHS alumnus and SIU tight end Karsen Konkel holds the blocking pad during “kids indy.”
Pinckneyville senior Addi Kellerman has signed her national letter of intent to play softball for Rend Lake College and had her
Pinckneyville Powerhouse wrestler Addilyn Parino placed 5th in the
Nationals. Photo by Kara Kellerman.
Pinckneyville Powerhouse wrestler
in
4. Photo by Kara Kellerman.
Pinckneyville Powerhouse wrestler Grayson Shute placed 8th in the 66-pound 5th grade bracket of the Adidas Nationals tournament in Independence, Missouri, on April 4. More than 2,500 wrestlers from 37 states participated in the event. Photo by Kara Kellerman.
Classifieds
PUBLIC NOTICES
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PERRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, PLAINTIFF, VS. WILLIAM BULLINER; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, DEFENDANTS. NO. 2025FC11
706 NORTH VINE STREET DU QUOIN, IL 62832 NOTICE OF SALE
PURSUANT TO JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE UNDER ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE ACT PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered by the Court in the above entitled cause on February 27, 2026, the Presiding Judge of Perry County will on May 22, 2026, in the 2ND FLOOR OF THE PERRY COUNTY COURTHOUSE; 1 Public Square, Pinckneyville, IL 62274, at 9:00 AM, sell at public auction and sale to the highest bidder for cash, all and singular, the following described real estate mentioned in said Judgment, situated in the County of Perry, State of Illinois, or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment: PART OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER (NE1/4) OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER (NW1/4) OF SECTION EIGHT (8), TOWNSHIP SIX (6) SOUTH, RANGE ONE (1) WEST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, PERRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS, TOWIT: BEGINNING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE INTERSECTION OF VINE STREET AND PARKER AVENUE, AS PLATTED IN THE CITY OF DU QUOIN, THENCE 160.5 FEET IN A NORTHERLY DIRECTION ALONG THE EAST LINE OF VINE STREET, EXTENDED, FOR THE PLACE OF STARTING, THEN IN A NORTHERLY DIRECTION ALONG THE EAST LINE OF VINE STREET 50 FEET, THEN EASTERLY, PARALLEL WITH PARKER AVENUE, 125 FEET, THEN SOUTHERLY 50 FEET AND WESTERLY 125 FEET TO THE PLACE OF STARTING.
TAX NO. 1-610130-150 COMMONLY
KNOWN AS: 706 North Vine Street Du Quoin, IL 62832
Description of Improvements: Tan vinyl, single family home, detached 1 car garage The Judgment amount was $27,595.89. Sale Terms: This is an “AS IS” sale for “CASH”. The
successful bidder must deposit 10% down by certified funds; balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. NO REFUNDS. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate, water bills, etc., and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to plaintiff. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the bid amount, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.
The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/ expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
For Information: Visit our website at http:// ilforeclosuresales. mrpllc.com. Between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. onlyMcCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 333 W Wacker Drive, Suite 1820, Chicago, IL 606061220. Tel. No. (312) 346-9088. Please refer to file# 2522638IL PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT, THE PLAINTIFF’S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Plaintiff’s attorney is not required to provide additional information other than that set forth in this notice of sale. I3283961
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, PERRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS, Case No. 2026TX8, 618 Cleaning and
Repair, LLC.
To: Jamie L. Simmons a/k/a
Jamie L. Kling a/k/a Jamie L. Chapman; Tom Schuck; Occupants of; Perry County Clerk; and all other persons/ entities UNKNOWN having or claiming any right, interest or title in the following described real estate: Lot Four (4) in Block Thirty-Eight (38) of Keyes and Metcalf’s Second Addition to the City of Du Quoin, Perry County, Illinois, as shown by the Plat thereof filed about September 8, 1858 in Deed Record J, Page 343 in the Recorder’s Office of Perry County, Illinois. Situated in Perry County, Illinois. Except any interest in the coal, oil, gas and other minerals underlying the land which have been heretofore conveyed or reserved in prior conveyances, and all rights and easements in favor of the estate of said coal, oil, gas and other minerals, if any.
Permanent Index No. 2-61-1280-270 On March 26, 2026, 618 Cleaning and Repair, LLC filed a Petition for Order of Tax Deed.
The object of the plaintiff’s petition is to foreclose on the Tax Sale Certificate No. 202200230 for the delinquent taxes on real estate described above which was issued by the Perry County Treasurer on January 9, 2024. The taxes due under the certificate are for the 2022 tax year. The petition asks the court to direct the county clerk to issue a tax deed if the property is not redeemed from the sale on or before August 14, 2026, and that Petitioner, as grantee of tax deed be put in possession of said parcel of real estate. The Petition for Order of Tax Deed will be brought before the Perry County Circuit Court on August 20, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. in Courtroom 1. If you fail to redeem, the court may enter a judgment for the relief demanded in the petition. 618 Cleaning and Repair, LLC, Petitioner Stuart E. Morgenstern, #6275553 Attorney for Petitioner 1 W. Laurel Street Pinckneyville, Illinois 62274 (618)357-5315 semlaw@frontier. com
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PERRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS CITY OF DU QUOIN, A Municipal Corporation, Plaintiff, VS. PAUL SPAIN, JANICE SPAIN, JODI M. KOESTER, TREASURER AND EX-OFFICIO COLLECTOR OF PERRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS, HEARTLAND TAX AUCTION, LLC, AND UNKNOWN
OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants. NO. 2026-MRNOTICE OF PENDENCY OF ACTION –PUBLICATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN YOU: Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants, interested parties/ owners of an interest in the real estate hereinafter described that the above-entitled Complaint for Condemnation action is now pending in said Court which seeks the condemnation and/or demolition of the structures located upon the following described real estate, to-wit: Legal Description: Lot Seventeen (17) in Block Four (4) of the Replatting of Blocks Two (2) and Four (4) of GEORGE W. WALL’S ADDITION to the City of Du Quoin, in Perry County, Illinois, as shown by the Plat thereof filed December 14, 1905 in Deed Record 37, Page 496 in the Recorder’s Office of Perry County, Illinois. EXCEPT any interest in the coal, oil, gas, and other minerals underlying the land which have been heretofore conveyed or reserved in prior conveyances, and all rights and easements in favor of the estate of said coal, oil, gas, and other minerals, if any. Tax ID Number: 2-61-1900-010. Common Address: 622 South Jefferson Street, Du Quoin, IL 62832.
YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that unless on or before the 7th day of May, 2026, you shall appear and defend in said suit, a default may be entered against you on the day following or thereafter, resulting in the condemnation and/ or demolition of the structures located on said premises and/or the premises as a whole.
YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that hearing shall be had on said Complaint for Condemnation on the 12th day of May, 2026, at the hour of 11:00 A.M., before the Honorable Daniel Janowski, or such other Judge as may be sitting in his stead at the Perry County Courthouse, Pinckneyville, Illinois. DATED this 27th day or March, 2026.
TRICIA CHANDLER, Circuit Clerk Calen J. Campanella ARDC #: 6312472 Campanella & Campanella, Brothers at Law 16 E. Main Street Du Quoin, Illinois 62832 Phone: 618-5422323 Email: campanella@ cclawbrothers.com
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 24TH JUDICIAL
CIRCUIT PERRY COUNTY, PINCKNEYVILLE, ILLINOIS Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC PLAINTIFF Vs. Matthew R. Murphy; et. al. DEFENDANTS No. 2024FC13 NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE OF REAL ESTATE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 01/23/2026, the Judge of Perry County, Illinois will on May 8, 2026 at the hour of 9:00 AM at Perry County Courthouse, 1 Public Square Pinckneyville, IL 62274, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of Perry and State of Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate: LOT 10 IN BLOCK 8 OF KIMMEL’S ADDITION TO THE CITY OF DU QUOIN, AS SHOWN BY THE PLAT THEREOF FILED APRIL 26, 1940 IN PLAT RECORD 1 AT PAGE 75 (NOW SLOT #172 IN THE PLAT CABINET) IN THE RECORDER’S OFFICE OF PERRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS. SITUATED IN PERRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS. EXCEPT ALL COAL, OIL, GAS, AND OTHER MINERALS. PIN 2-61-1350-060 Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 219 S Line St Du Quoin, IL 62832
Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the auction; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due within twentyfour (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure takes place after 1/1/2007, purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees
will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmation of the sale. The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/ expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises. The property will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all information. IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. For information: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876. Please refer to file number 14-2405150. I3284077
PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE CERTIFICATE NUMBER 202200001
To: GARY D DUDEK AND/ OR UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS DALE E DUDEK AND/ OR UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS SCOTT E DUDEK OFFICER FOR BANK OF AMERICA PERRY COUNTY CLERK , and all unknown owners, occupants, beneficiaries, heirs, devisees or parties interested. A Petition for a Tax Deed on the premise described below has been filed in the Circuit Court of Perry County, Illinois, as Case Number 2026TX4. On July 23, 2026 at 9:00 am, in Room TBD, the Petitioner will make an application to such court in Perry County, Illinois, for an Order on the Petition that a Tax Deed be issued if the real estate is not redeemed from the sale. The real
estate is described as follows, to wit: LEGAL
DESCRIPTION:
Sec 03 TWP 04 RNG 01N 1/2 N 1/2 S 1/2
NW424/73272/603-11/22/1971 PERMANENT INDEX NUMBER: 1-41-0030-180 and was sold on 1/9/2024 for general taxes for the year 2022. The period of redemption will expire on 7/17/2026. RAVEN SECURITIES INC PETITIONER 8060-963414
PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE CERTIFICATE NUMBER 202200028
To: HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF CLARENCE C WAYER AND/ OR UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS OPAL CASTLEMAN JACK WAYER DAVID WAYER GAYLA WAYER SHERIE GEORGE DOUGLAS WAYER LIBBY TILLEY PERRY COUNTY CLERK , and all unknown owners, occupants, beneficiaries, heirs, devisees or parties interested. A Petition for a Tax Deed on the premise described below has been filed in the Circuit Court of Perry County, Illinois, as Case Number 2026TX5. On July 23, 2026 at 9:00 am, in Room TBD, the Petitioner will make an application to such court in Perry County, Illinois, for an Order on the Petition that a Tax Deed be issued if the real estate is not redeemed from the sale. The real estate is described as follows, to wit: LEGAL DESCRIPTION:
Sec 33 TWP 05 RNG 011/2A S 1/4 W SW 08901 PERMANENT INDEX NUMBER: 1-51-0370-100 and was sold on 1/9/2024 for general taxes for the year 2022. The period of redemption will expire on 7/17/2026 RAVEN SECURITIES INC PETITIONER 8060-963415 PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE CERTIFICATE NUMBER 202200105 To: FRANK GLEASON AND/ OR UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS ILLINOIS CORPORATION SERVICE COMPANY AGENT FOR MARINER FINANCE LLC PERRY COUNTY CLERK , and all unknown owners, occupants, beneficiaries, heirs, devisees or parties interested. A Petition for a Tax Deed on the premise described below has been filed in the Circuit Court of Perry County, Illinois, as Case Number 2026TX6. On July 23, 2026 at 9:00 am, in Room TBD, the Petitioner will make an application to such
Page 15
and was sold on 1/9/2024 for general taxes for the year 2022. The period of redemption will expire on 7/17/2026. RAVEN SECURITIES INC PETITIONER 8060-963416
PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE CERTIFICATE NUMBER 202200166
To:
TAWMI CONLEY AND/OR UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS
PERRY COUNTY CLERK , and all unknown owners, occupants, beneficiaries, heirs, devisees or parties interested.
A Petition for a Tax Deed on the premise described below has been filed in the Circuit Court of Perry County, Illinois, as Case Number 2026TX7. On July 23, 2026 at 9:00 am, in Room TBD, the Petitioner will make an application to such court in Perry County, Illinois, for an Order on the Petition that a Tax Deed be issued if the real estate is not redeemed from the sale. The real estate is described as follows, to wit: LEGAL
DESCRIPTION:
Sec TWP RNG Block Number: 7
CURTIS + KELLY ADD LOT1 TO 5 & VACATED 20’ WIDE ALLEYWAY .095@20212132019-26412013236620121037,1034,721 MORE DEEDS ON CARD PERMANENT INDEX NUMBER:
2-61-0790-170 and was sold on 1/9/2024 for general taxes for the year 2022. The period of redemption will expire on 7/17/2026. RAVEN SECURITIES INC PETITIONER 8060-963417
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE TWENTY-FOURTH
JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PERRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS UNITED COMMUNITY BANK, an Illinois banking corporation, Plaintiff, v. BENJAMIN A. CARTER, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants. Case No. 2025FC6 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered by the court on the Complaint for Foreclosure in the aboveentitled cause, the property hereinafter described or so much thereof as shall be sufficient
to satisfy said judgment, will be sold to the highest bidder.
(A) The name, address and telephone number of the person to contact for information regarding the real estate is: United Community Bank, Attn: Loss Mitigation, 1311 West Jefferson Street, Auburn, IL 62615; Telephone: (217) 438-5467
(B) The common address and other common description, if any, of the real estate is: 3031 US Route 51, Du Quoin, Illinois 62832
(C) The legal description of the real estate is: Part of the Northwest Quarter (NW 1/4) of the Southwest Quarter (SW 1/4) of Section Twentynine (29) and part of the Northeast Quarter (NE 1/4) of the Southeast Quarter (SE 1/4) of Section Thirty (30) in Township Five (5) South, Range One (1) West of the Third Principal Meridian, Perry County, Illinois, more particularly described as follows, to-wit: Beginning at the Southwest corner of the Southwest Quarter (SW 1/4) of the Southwest Quarter (SW 1/4) of Section Twenty-nine (29), in Township Five (5) South, Range One (1) West of the Third Principal Meridian; then run East, on the land line, 3.32 chains, to the West line of the right of way of U.S. Highway 51 (as located on Mar 31, 1938); and then North, along said right of way line, 23.39 chains to the place of starting; then run West 3.204 chains, parallel with the land line; then North 3.164 chains, parallel with the land line; then East, parallel with the land line, 3.124 chains, to the West line of said highway right of way; then Southerly, on said right of way line, 3.165 chains, to the place of starting. Situated in Perry County, Illinois. EXCEPT all coal, oil, gas, and other minerals.
(D) A description of the improvements on the real estate is: Single family residence.
(E) The real estate may be inspected prior to sale at the following times: Not applicable.
(F) The time and place of the sale are: 9:00 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026; Perry County Courthouse, 1 Public Square, Pinckneyville, Illinois 62274
(G) The terms of the sale are: Certified funds due at time of sale. Plaintiff may credit
bid at the sale. The successful bidder will receive a Certificate of Purchase following the sale and a Sheriff’s Deed upon confirmation of the sale by the Circuit Court of Perry County, Illinois. (H) Title will be conveyed subject to real estate taxes for 2025 and subsequent years and special assessments, if any; to building restrictions and restrictive covenants of record; to easements of record or in place; to rights of way for roads, streets, and highways; to rights of tenants in possession, if any. Sale is subject to approval of the Circuit Court of Perry County, Illinois. Any real estate transfer tax which may be due as a result of the sale shall be paid by the purchaser.
BROWN, HAY & STEPHENS, LLP
Emmet A. Fairfield Registration No. 6180505 205 S. 5th Street –Suite 1000 P.O. Box 2459 Springfield, IL 62705 (217) 544-8491 efairfield@bhslaw. com 8060-963121
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PERRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM GRIFFITHS, JR., Deceased. 2025PR33 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of William Griffiths, Jr. of Willisville, Perry County, Illinois. Letters of Office as Co-Administrators were issued on December 4, 2025 to Jesse S. Griffiths, 5272 Peach Orchard, Lot 2, Sesser, IL 62289 and to Saylor Griffiths, P.O. Box 139, Willisville, IL 62997 whose attorney is Gilbert, Huffman, Prosser, Hewson & Barke, Ltd., P.O. Box 1060, Carbondale, IL 62903. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court at the Perry County Courthouse, Pinckneyville, Illinois, or with the representative or both, within six months from the date of the first publication of this notice, on or before September 25, 2026, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a 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.
Saylor M. Griffiths, Independent CoAdministrator Gilbert, Huffman, Prosser, Hewson & Barke, Ltd.
Attorneys at Law 102 S. Orchard Drive P.O. Box 1060 Carbondale, IL 62901
TEL: (618) 4573547
FAX: (618) 4578017 attorneys@ southernillinoislaw. com 8060-963079
REAL ESTATE
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PERRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, PLAINTIFF, VS. WILLIAM BULLINER; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, DEFENDANTS. NO. 2025FC11 706 NORTH VINE STREET DU QUOIN, IL 62832
NOTICE OF SALE PURSUANT TO JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE UNDER ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE ACT PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered by the Court in the above entitled cause on February 27, 2026, the Presiding Judge of Perry County will on May 22, 2026, in the 2ND FLOOR OF THE PERRY COUNTY COURTHOUSE; 1 Public Square, Pinckneyville, IL 62274, at 9:00 AM, sell at public auction and sale to the highest bidder for cash, all and singular, the following described real estate mentioned in said Judgment, situated in the County of Perry, State of Illinois, or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment: TAX NO. 1-610130-150 COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 706 North Vine Street Du Quoin, IL 62832 Description of Improvements: Tan vinyl, single family home, detached 1 car garage The Judgment amount was $27,595.89. Sale Terms: This is an “AS IS” sale for “CASH”. The successful bidder must deposit 10% down by certified funds; balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. NO REFUNDS. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real
estate, water bills, etc., and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to plaintiff. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the bid amount, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/ expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. For Information: Visit our website at http:// ilforeclosuresales. mrpllc.com. Between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. onlyMcCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 333 W Wacker Drive, Suite 1820, Chicago, IL 606061220. Tel. No. (312) 346-9088. Please refer to file# 2522638IL PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT, THE PLAINTIFF’S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Plaintiff’s attorney is not required to provide additional information other than that set forth in this notice of sale. I3283961
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 24TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PERRY COUNTY, PINCKNEYVILLE, ILLINOIS Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC
PLAINTIFF Vs. Matthew R. Murphy; et. al. DEFENDANTS No. 2024FC13 NOTICE OF JUDICIAL SALE OF REAL ESTATE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 01/23/2026, the Judge of Perry County, Illinois will on May 8, 2026 at the hour of 9:00 AM at Perry County Courthouse, 1 Public Square Pinckneyville, IL 62274, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of Perry and State of Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate: PIN 2-61-1350-060
Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 219 S Line St Du Quoin, IL 62832 Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the auction; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due within twentyfour (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure takes place after 1/1/2007, purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmation of the sale.
The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/ expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises.
The property will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all information. IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
For information: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876. Please refer to file number 14-2405150. I3284077
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE TWENTY-FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PERRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS UNITED COMMUNITY BANK, an Illinois banking corporation, Plaintiff, v. BENJAMIN A. CARTER, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants. Case No. 2025FC6 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered by the court on the Complaint for Foreclosure in the aboveentitled cause, the property hereinafter described or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said judgment, will be sold to the highest bidder.
(A) The name, address and telephone number of the person to contact for information regarding the real estate is:
United Community Bank, Attn: Loss Mitigation, 1311 West Jefferson Street, Auburn, IL 62615; Telephone: (217) 438-5467
(B) The common address and other common description, if any, of the real estate is: 3031 US Route 51, Du Quoin, Illinois 62832
(C) A description of the improvements on the real estate is: Single family residence.
(D) The real estate may be inspected prior to sale at the following times: Not applicable.
(E) The time and place of the sale are: 9:00 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026; Perry County Courthouse, 1 Public Square, Pinckneyville, Illinois 62274
(F) The terms of the sale are: Certified funds due at time of sale. Plaintiff may credit bid at the sale. The successful bidder will receive a Certificate of Purchase following the sale and a Sheriff’s Deed upon confirmation of the sale by the Circuit Court of Perry County, Illinois. (G) Title will be conveyed subject to real
Du Quoin Flea Market
