Forreston FFA greenhouse offers plenty of plants for sale / 9
Find out how local teams fared in baseball, softball and soccer / 11
Fountain flowing
Oregon’s historic water fountain is back in action / 7
Frances P. Strouse, Page 16
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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Police is warning the public of a phone scam.
The ISP has received several phone calls from individuals reporting a person claiming to be an ISP investigator telling them their identity has been stolen. This is a scam, ISP officials said in a news release.
“ISP special agents will not make cold calls requesting personal or financial infor-
Pork Chop Dinner is May 4
The Leaf River Lions will host a pork chop dinner Saturday, May 4.
The dinner includes one or two chops, baked beans, applesauce, dinner roll and beverage. The chops are being prepared by the Ogle County Pork Producers.
The meal will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Bertolet Memorial building.
A one-chop meal is $10 and a two-chop meal is $15.
“Come and have a delicious pork chop and
Movie, 10 a.m. Saturday, May 4
This new release tells the wondrous story of how a young dreamer named Willy becomes the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate maker.
Lego Club, 5 p.m. Monday, May 6
We’ve got tubs of bricks for you to choose from in our Lego Club.
May Book of the Month: “Go As a River” by Shelley Read
Set on a peach farm in Colorado, a young girl in a family of men learns how one minor
Book Sale
We will be holding our semiannual book sale during regular library hours through Saturday, May 18. We have a huge assortment of books, DVDs, games and puzzles for all ages and interests so you won’t want to miss this sale.
Mixin’ It Up Fundraiser through May 13
In an effort to offer programs for all ages, library supporters are holding a fundraiser through Midwest Mixes, one of America’s
mation or ask you to confirm personal or financial information,” according to the release. “If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be an ISP investigator, ask for the caller’s name, badge number and phone number and then hang up.”
“Never provide or confirm personal or financial information over the phone to an unknown caller. You can verify if a caller is an ISP special agent by contacting one of the seven investigative regions throughout the state, which can be found on the ISP website,” according to the release.
The ISP recommends contacting each of the three credit bureaus to put a free security freeze on your credit if you have provided personal or financial information to a caller or think someone may have stolen your identifying information, This will prevent someone from opening credit in your name.
You also can call the Illinois Attorney General’s Identity Theft Hotline at 1-866999-5630 (7-1-1 relay service). You will be assigned a consumer advocate to guide you through the recovery process.
visit with friends. Supporting this event will help the Lions with their community projects,” Lion Paul Lindstrom said.
FHS upcoming events
Forreston High School will hold its baccalaureate service for graduating seniors on Sunday, May 5, in the FHS gymnasium. The service will begin at 7 p.m. Forreston High School will be holding its annual honor’s night for graduating seniors on Wednesday, May 8, in the FHS gymnasi-
um. The program will begin at 7 p.m. with a welcome from Principal Travis Heinz. This will be followed by presenting the Class of 2024 with scholarships and awards.
The Forrestville Valley School District will be presenting diplomas to the 2024 graduating class of Forreston High School on Sunday, May 12, in the FHS gymnasium beginning at 2 p.m.
Students, families and community members are invited to attend.
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decision can change the course of one’s life. Pick up a copy at the circulation desk.
May Craft
Stop by the circulation desk to pick up a kit to make a pretty dragonfly to welcome in the spring weather.
Stories with Stacey 10 a.m. Thursdays. Join Miss Stacey for fun stories for your toddlers and preschoolers. A to Z Reading Challenge
We hope to see you at the library choosing a book title that starts with “I”. There will be
several on display. Pick one out to fill in your A to Z Reading Challenge list.
New Releases
Adult Books
“Close To Death” by Anthony Horowitz
“We’ve Got Issues” by Phillip McGraw “A Chateau Under Siege” by Martin Walker Picture Books
“Thomas & Friends: Chasing Rainbows” “That’s Not My Turtle...” by Fiona Watt DVD “Wonka”
premiere sites for gourmet vegetable dips, olive oil blends, rubs and other products. For more information, call the library at 815-938-2624 or visit forrestonlibrary.org.
Toddler/Preschool Storytime, 10 a.m. Wednesdays
Bring your favorite little person to share in a time of stories, crafts and activities every Wednesday that school is in session. This fun, relaxed program introduces children to the joy of reading and making new friends.
Accuracy is important to the Forreston Journal. Please call errors to our attention by email at news@oglecountynews.com.
Recycle Eclipse Viewers
Don’t throw away those eclipse glasses/ viewers. Bring them to the library by July 15. We’ll send them to Eclipse Glasses USA to be used by students in Latin America during their eclipse in October.
Community Room
Our community room (with a small kitchenette) is available for meetings, parties, family reunions and more. Call the library at 815-938-2624 for more information.
We want to hear from you. Email us your thoughts at feedback@shawmedia.com.
FORRESTON – Little Orphan Annie came to Forreston High School on Sunday, delighting the audience with familiar tunes and plot twists of the popular musical and movie.
It was a total team effort with 50-plus kids in the cast and crew.
Between the first and second acts, a 15-minute intermission took place in the school lobby with special “Annie cookies” made by Kelsey Osterloo, kettle corn and T-shirts for sale. A silent auction also was offered.
Proceeds raised will be used for updates and new supplies for future productions, organizers said.
Cast members were Little Orphan Annie, Lucy Schneiderman; Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks, Dane Setterstrom; Miss Hannigan, Sydni Badertscher; Grace Farrell, Zoriah Jenkins; Rooster, Lucas Nelson; Lily St. Regis, Micah Nelson; Molly, Lily Zipse; Pepper, Cora Schmidt; July, Elena Tuten; Tessie, Mila Carter; Kate, Alexis Schramm; Duffy, Iza Amezola; Lt. Ward, Grant Johnson; Sophie, Julia Parra; Radio Announcer, Ty Johnson; Bundles, Hunter Miller; Drake, Daylen Rahn; Bert Healy, Jonathan Milnes; Star to Be, Kailey Encheff; Mrs. Pugh, Brynn Lamm; Annette, Kyla Lamm; Cecille, Caroline Bawinkel; Miss Greer, Letrese Buisker; Ronnie Boylan, Kailey Encheff; Connie Boylan, Olivia King; Bonnie Boylan, Julia Parra; Wacky, Mya Saxby; Dog Catcher, Mason Rogin; Louis Howe, Daniel Koehl; Assistant Dog Catcher, Ayden Book; and Sandy, Tucker Crase.
The ensemble was Caroline Bawinkel, Ayden Book, Emily Borgmann, Letrese Buisker, Emma Chamberlin, Faith Encheff, Kailey Encheff, Troy Havens-Thornton, Hayden Harvey, Emma Hundertmark, Ty Johnson, Olivia King, Zoe Menke, Hunter Miller, Jonathan Milnes, Lucas Nelson, Micah Nelson, Kinsley Rya, Mya Saxby and Gerald Sheely.
Orphans were Natalie Bradbury, Leighton Byers, Xairyn Goeddeke and Shannon Pals.
Stage manager was Mackenna Zink.
Lights and backstage crew were Haleigh Altherr, Emilee Bocker and Liam Setterstrom.
Prompter ws Hannah Wagner.
Spotlight was Jenna Greenfield and Colson Lamm.
Set design was Ms. Jessica Witherspoon, Samantha Appel, Sydni Badertscher, Emily Borgmann, Gavin Fox, Olivia King, Zoe Menke, Mya Saxby, Elizabeth Shenberger, Jaiden Schneiderman and Madison Zipse.
Set construction was Mrs. Kelley Parks, Aaron Dallman, Xavier Goed -
Little
Attendees at Forreston High School’s “Annie” performance April 28 could buy “Annie cookies” made by Kelsey Osterloo.
deke, Dausyn Heslop, Emma Lundquist, Kiyan Lynn, Natalia Roach, Tymon Runkle, Kaleb Sanders, Dylon Timmer, Taylor Waugh-Bloyer, Patrick Wichman and Rees Zipse.
Sound was Luke Akker.
Costume director was Lynne Meyer.
Directors were Mrs. Kristin Crase and Ms. Hanna Kasten.
“It’s a Hard
Miss Hannigan (Sydni Badertscher), Rooster (Lucas Nelson) and Lily St. Regis (Cammie Kent) plan how to get the reward for Orphan Annie during Forreston High School’s performance of “Annie” on April 28.
Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks (Dane Setterstrom) talks on the phone as he performs a scene with other cast members during Forreston High School’s performance of “Annie” on April 28.
Photos by Earleen Hinton Orphan Annie, played by Lucy Schneiderman, and her dog Sandy, portrayed by Tucker Crase, perform the musical number Knock Life” during Forreston High School’s performance of “Annie” on April 28.Why couldn’t we just say, “Welcome To Polo” or “Hello From Polo.” Instead we are still hanging on to the apron strings of the White Pines State Park with “Gateway To The Pines” being painted on the wall, according to an article in the March 29 issue of the Tri-County Press.
I guess we are hoping some camper will come in and buy a loaf of bread or a bag of potato chips or visit one of our wonderful shops.
If we really wanted to be accurate in terms of a “gateway,” we would have to say, “Gateway To Freedom.” That is what Polo really was in the very beginning. But we are not really ready for that slogan on our wall at the present time.
Linda, Charlie and Kevin returned from the 2024 Regional History Conference at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb. One of the sessions was “Verifying Underground Railroad Sites in Northern Illinois.” I knew I could not stand an all-day program in DeKalb even if I would
have loved to be back on campus at NIU. Instead I sent a binder of Underground Railroad information of the activity in Polo and the area.
This is not the first time I have given this information to people at the state level. Years ago, Blackhawk Waterways sent me to Sycamore to a conference on the same subject. I took along a binder for Terry Ransom, who had at that time worked on this subject for 10 years at state level.
In a more recent article, Ransom lists us as “Princeton, Byron, Buffalo Grove, Chicago” and etc. People automatically think it is the Buffalo Grove near Chicago. They did not list Fulton in Whiteside County at all. So I knew more work needed to be done on the lines of the Underground Railroad in the state.
This time my binder went to Zachery Bishop at Aurora University who was leading the session at NIU. Also, the National Park Service and the tourism people are on board. They are looking for ways to bring people into your community through the history of your town.
This week, I received an email from Bishop and he was impressed with the information on Polo. He said, “You’ve assembled a really good collection of credible sources documenting UGRR activity in Polo and surrounding areas.” Now he wants me to pinpoint specific locations of the stops that I have learned about.
The National Park Service has a great recognition program for verified UGRR sites called the “Network to Freedom,” We can nominate historic buildings that harbored slaves, former sites that had buildings on it and also cemeteries where abolitionists are buried. Linda is working on Fairmount Cemetery, where we have
more than 25 abolitionists buried. Bishop will work with us on the applications.
We will start with where abolitionists are buried and credible sources that will tell of their work in the network to freedom. We have two more places that could have signs –one private and one in town. The city would have to approve all of it. I want to find out what kind of signs the National Park Service would use. I am excited that the state now wants to work with us and that they would give us recognition. Polo really was a “Gateway To Freedom.” First we need to start with the cemetery.
Remember the program on Wednesday, May 8, given at the Polo Senior Center by David McCartney. His slide presentation starting at 7 p.m. will have many pictures of old Polo.
• Betty Obendorf is a retired teacher and volunteer for the Polo Historical Society.
The following story was written by Jane Shoemaker and appeared in her book “Pine Creek Recollections – a Storytelling Book” in 2001. I will be sharing selections of her book in my column for a few weeks. Jane recalled thinking during her early years there was talk of a state park, but it wasn’t until 1927 that White Pines State Park was established. – Otto Dick
By JANE SHOEMAKERPine Creek Township had only one village, Stratford. Stratford is located west of the White Pines State Park. The village was platted around 1886, when the CB&Q railroad was completed. The rails cut across Pine Creek Township, dissecting it into two almost equal parts. The stone railroad bridge separated my grandfather’s farm from White Pines Park. Egner and Ryder, early settlers, built a creamery near Stratford in the early 1890s. The creamery was used as a milk depot for neighboring farmers. It also became famous for its cheeses and butter. Grandmother’s table always had some form of cheese on it, sometimes homemade and sometimes from the Stratford Creamery. At one time Stratford boasted an elevator, grocery store, post office and railroad depot.
Perhaps 30 people lived in Stratford
during the early 1900s. My first memories as a little girl were visiting Stratford Corners and being overwhelmed with what I experienced. Large freight trains thundering through, not slowing down, blowing the whistle. A store filled with men from the area and smoky rooms and lots of language my father, Enno, never used. There were cheeses everywhere –old cheeses, new cheeses, yellow cheeses, hard cheeses and soft cheeses. Uncle Dusty would take us with him in the car. We would ride around the road, past the White Pines Park, up and down the hills, around the corner
and across the railroad tracks. As I became older, I remember trekking over to Stratford via the railroad tracks. It cut the distance by a mile or so, but one had to walk. Sometimes we had to wait for trains. Long, long freight trains and if we were lucky, the long, sleek, silver passenger Zephyr would zoom by. What a thrill to see the first hint of what future trains would be like. (Long and silver, streaking along the tracks, sounding the new type of horn at crossings and traveling 70 mph!).
In 1934, the CB&Q Stratford depot was hit by a potato train. The station
was torn down soon afterward. The railroad crossing, now with flashing lights and gates, is still there.
Stratford Corners was named after the place of Shakespeare’s birth. Many of the learned men gathered to exchange barbed quips. Two of these were “Stratford Corners is so small that we don’t have a town drunk. We just take turns” and “Stratford Corners is so small we don’t have a wrong side of the tracks.”
• Otto Dick is a retired teacher and has researched Ogle County history for several years.
Ogle County jurors convicted Matthew Plote of first-degree murder in March after 5-day trial
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.comOREGON – A Malta man wants a new trial after being found guilty in March of murdering a Mt. Morris woman and her unborn baby and then setting her home on fire in an attempt to conceal the deaths in 2020.
Matthew T. Plote, 36, was convicted March 22 of killing Melissa Lamesch, 27, on Nov. 25, 2020, just one day before Thanksgiving and two days before their full-term baby was to be born.
Jurors deliberated for two hours before finding him guilty of four counts of first-degree murder, three counts of intentional homicide of an unborn child and one count each of residential arson, aggravated domestic battery and concealment of a homicidal death.
Plote was the baby’s biological father and showed no emotion as the verdict was read. He also chose not to take the stand during the trial at the Ogle County Judicial Center.
On April 19, Plote’s attorneys, Liam Dixon and John Kopp, filed a motion asking for a new trial, which is common after trials that result in a conviction.
Plote and Dixon appeared before Judge John “Ben” Roe on April 25 for a post-trial motion hearing.
Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock requested 14 days to respond to the defense motion and asked for a June date to argue the motions. He also asked that enough time be allowed for a sentencing hearing to be held at that time if the defense’s motion was denied.
Roe set the next hearing date for 1:30 p.m. June 27.
In the six-page motion, Dixon and Kopp list several reasons for a new trial. Some relate to what the defense claims were hearsay statements that should not have been included as testimony while others question testimony given by two of the state’s expert witnesses –an investigator with the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office and a forensic pathologist.
The defense argues in the motion that testimony given by Lamesch’s sister while she was on the phone with Lamesch when Plote appeared at her home should have been determined as hearsay and not allowed to be presented as evidence.
Cassie Baal, Lamesch’s older sister, told jurors she was on the phone with her sister when Plote appeared at the family’s childhood home on the day Lamesch died. “She said she would make the conversation quick and would call me right back,” Baal testified.
Prosecutors said Lamesch never called Baal back because Plote had killed her and then set the home on fire.
The defense motion also questions Roe’s decision to allow the jury to hear four hours of Plote’s interrogation by Ogle County sheriff’s detectives on Aug. 28, 2021, that they say introduced “prejudicial evidence” that violated the defendant’s right to cross examine the witness.
During the trial, jurors watched the video recording during which two detectives accused the Carol Stream paramedic of strangling Lamesch and her unborn baby because he didn’t want the birth of his son to interfere with his “carefree playboy lifestyle.”
“The police spoke of cellphone evidence and geolocation of the defendant’s phone that was never introduced by the state during its case in chief other than through then-published video,” the motion claims. “The state had a Verizon business records custodian under
subpoena but never called them as a witness.
“The state was able to present prejudicial and irrelevant material such as the fact the defendant had sexual intercourse with another woman the night before the alleged murder. The state had the name of the alleged sexual partner listed as a potential witness but never called her to testify. The state also used this unproven hearsay allegation as substantive evidence in its closing,” the motion claims.
The motion argues Plote had a right to remain silent during the interrogation and that by allowing the interrogation to be heard, jurors would hear the officers’ statements as evidence “merely because the defendant remained silent.”
Two forensic pathologists, Dr. Mark Peters and Dr. Amanda Youmans, told jurors that Lamesch was strangled to death before firefighters recovered her from her burning home.
They testified abrasions on Lamesch’s face and scalp and bruises on her legs and thighs all occurred before she died and there were no elevated levels of carbon monoxide found in Lamesch’s blood. Her “full-term male fetus” had no abnormalities. Lamesch also had minimal thermal wounds, they testified.
Youmans said Lamesch’s neck, face, eyes and larynx all showed signs of strangulation, hemorrhages in the muscles in her neck were caused by pressure being applied to that area, and when she cleaned soot and debris from Lamesch’s body, she discovered more injuries that she said were consistent with “blunt force.” Those injuries, Youmans said, were found on Lamesch’s forehead, head and temple and were consistent with “multiple blows to her head.”
Jurors were shown autopsy photos of Lamesch’s injuries along with a photo of the baby boy wrapped in a blue blanket.
Mt. Morris firefighters testified they were called to the Lamesch home, 206. S. Hannah Ave., about 4:30 p.m. and forced their way into the home, where they found Lamesch laying on the kitchen floor not breathing and covered with soot and debris.
When she was dragged from the burning home and placed into an ambulance, there was no electrical activity in her heart and she was pronounced dead at 4:54 p.m., firefighters said.
In an initial police interview on Nov. 25, 2020, Plote told detectives that Lamesch had wanted him to be involved with the baby but he initially “wasn’t on board” but went to her home to “work things out.”
Plote said he stayed “about an hour” at Lamesch’s home and they talked at the kitchen table before moving to the couch to have what he described as consensual sex. He said he then left the home by walking out the front door.
A forensic scientist with the Illinois State Police Forensic Lab in Rockford testified that Plote’s DNA was found in fingernail scrapings taken from Lamesch’s right and left hands. He also said semen found in Lamesch’s vagina fit Plote’s profile as did cheek swabs taken from the dead baby.
Prosecutors said the DNA linked Plote to the violence done to Lamesch, disputing his claim they had consensual sex.
Lamesch was a 2011 graduate of Oregon High School and an emergency medical technician at Trace Ambulance Service in Tinley Park. She moved back into the family home in October 2020 and was scheduled to have her labor induced Nov. 27.
Plote continues to be held in the Ogle County Correctional Center awaiting sentencing.
OREGON – A Markham man accused of sexually assaulting a 17-yearold girl in Polo in December 2022 asked for a two-month continuance when he appeared in court with his attorney April 24.
Armon D. Pearson, 24, and his attor-
ney Brian Erwin appeared in front of Judge John Redington and requested the continuance regarding subpoenas and DNA records. Assistant State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten
did not object to the continuance.
Pearson is charged with criminal sexual assault of a girl in Polo on Dec. 13, 2022. He pleaded not guilty Feb. 14 and has requested a jury trial.
An arrest warrant first was issued in July 2023 – when the charge was filed –and Pearson’s bond was set at $150,000, meaning he would have to post 10%, or $15,000, to be released.
He was arrested Dec. 22 and appeared in court Dec. 26 and again Dec. 27 while in custody at the Ogle County Correctional Center.
As part of the state’s SAFE-T Act, Pearson asked to be released from custody without bond as his case proceeds through the court system.
Matthew PloteSPRINGFIELD – Forreston, Stillman and Lee fire protection districts are among 165 agencies receiving funds to help buy equipment through the 2024 Small Equipment Grant Program operated by the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal.
The three departments will receive grants up to $26,000 each for the purchase of small firefighting and ambulance equipment.
“This program is an innovative approach to a problem that has long caused difficulties for fire departments and not-for-profit ambulance services
in Illinois, particularly those that have hardships in generating the necessary revenue for small equipment,” the OSFM said in a news release.
The purpose is to allow eligible applicants the opportunity to buy small equipment that they may otherwise not be able to purchase. The OSFM received 417 applications, requesting about $9.5 million in funding for the grant period, the release said.
“We continue to see and hear about the need and understand the issues fire departments face when it comes to funding across the state. I am proud this year we were able to increase our grant funding to $4 million, a $2.5 mil-
lion increase from last year, which has allowed us to award over 100 more departments money to purchase lifesaving tools they might not have been able to afford otherwise,” Illinois State Fire Marshal James Rivera said.
Most Illinois fire departments, fire protections districts, township fire departments and stand-alone, nonprofit ambulance service providers were eligible to apply. All fire departments, fire protections districts and township fire department applicants were required to have participated in the National Fire Incident Reporting System for a minimum of two years before applying.
The Forreston Fire Protection Dis-
trict and Stillman Fire Protection Districts were each awarded $26,000 in Ogle County. The Sublette Fire Protection District in Lee County was awarded $25,200.
Other area agencies receiving awards were:
Bureau County: Cherry Fire Protection District, $26,000, and Bureau Fire Protection District, $20,277
Jo Daviess County: Menominee-Dunleith Fire Department, $25,455, and city of East Dubuque Fire Department, $22,556
Stephenson County: Orangeville Fire Protection District, $26,000, Freeport Fire Department, $25,000, and Cedarville Fire Protection District, $26,000.
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
OREGON – Eagle’s Nest Art Group member Linnea Koch and her husband, Wolf, will give two digital photography workshops in May at the Coliseum Museum of Art, Antiques and Americana, 124 N. Fourth St., Oregon.
Linda is an artist who has worked
in the visual arts field for more than 40 years. Wolf is an engineer, former part-time educator and seasoned photographer.
The first workshop, “Digital Photography Fundamentals,” is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 11. It will guide participants to a clearer understanding of several variables that affect photos, such as light, aperture,
shutter speed and sensor sensitivity. Participants will learn more about how to select unusual images and avoid common stereotypes with landscapes, cityscapes, wildlife and florals.
The second workshop, “Mastering Smartphone Photography,” is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, May 18. The program will cover both cellphone and tablet cameras.
The discussion will include information about using photo apps and affordable tools such as phone grips, small tripods, lenses and small LED lighting.
Both workshops are free. Participants must register through the museum’s website at cmaaa.org.
For more information, call the museum at 815-595-5810.
OREGON – Oregon’s iconic Iron Mike water fountain is up and running again, waiting to whet whistles of those on two or four legs.
The 1901 free-flowing fountain officially was turned on for the 2024 season by Mike Bowers, Jeff Pennington and Scott Wallace.
Bowers, Oregon’s former superintendent of streets, and Wallace and Pennington of the city’s water department switched the fountain on last week – just in time for the summerlike temperatures.
The fountain was rededicated in 2021 after a two-year restoration and relocation project led by Bowers.
In 2019, city and Ogle County officials decided to move the fountain away from the intersection of state Routes 64 and 2 to the northeast corner of the Ogle County Courthouse Square after a wayward car almost hit it. The fountain was cleaned, sandblasted and repainted by E.D. Etnyre Co. at its Oregon facility and stored at the street department over the winter. The pandemic then delayed the project.
Local workers helped create the new area for the fountain. The area includes two memorial benches and repurposed bricks from an Oregon street.
The Illinois Humane Society provided the Iron Mike water fountain to the city of Oregon in June 1901.
Iron Mike has three drinking levels – one for dogs, one for horses and one for people – and was endorsed by the Illinois Humane Society when it was forged.
The Humane Society provided water fountains to offer fresh drinking water to the horses pulling carriages in Chicago and Milwaukee.
“They felt that the horses were being mistreated so they wanted fresh water for the horses but then it turned to cats, dogs and children,” Bowers said at the fountain’s reinstallation. “The Women’s Christian Temperance Union also felt that if fresh water was available, it would deter people from going to the taverns. I don’t know how successful that was.”
There were cups on little posts near the top of the barrel of the fountain, but it later was discovered that sharing cups was responsible for spreading sickness and disease so they were removed.
Bowers thanked numerous individuals, businesses and city and county officials for helping with the restoration and relocation project and working together to complete the task.
“This relocation project was quite involved,” he said. “We had a lot of people step up to the plate.”
Iron Mike’s long residence in the city has been marked with some ups and downs. In 2010, its top decorative cap was stolen. It was replicated by the Nennah Foundry Co. and modeled after the top of a similar fountain in front of the Flagg Township Museum in Rochelle. That fountain is turned on only when the museum is open.
and Washington streets in downtown Oregon.
Photo provided by Mike Bowers Oregon’s iconic water fountain is up and running. Former city worker Mike Bowers (right) along with Scott Wallace (left) and Jeff Pennington (not pictured) of the city’s water department got the fountain ready last week. The fountain is located on the corner of Fourth
FORRESTON – Forreston FFA members hosted their end-of-the-year banquet April 25. They celebrated their accomplishments and recognized community members.
Star awards were given to the top member of each grade level.
The Star Greenhand Award was given to freshman Levi Bocker.
The Star Chapter Award was given to sophomore Hunter Miller.
The Star Chapter Junior Award was given to Dausyn Heslop, Justin Myers and Coehen Kirchner. Heslop and Kirchner also were recognized for completing their Illinois State FFA degrees, which they will receive this summer.
The Senior Award, better known as the DeKalb Award, was given to Grant Johnson.
Forreston recognized its record book (SAE) successes this year. Myers placed first at the district competition in Diversified Crop Entrepreneurship and moved on to the state competition. Heslop received second place at the district competition in Swine Entrepreneurship. Kirchner placed second at the district competition in Beef Placement.
The chapter also recognized two community members and inducted them as honorary FFA members.
Forreston Junior/Senior High School principal Travis Heinz was chosen for his overall support of the
The Forreston High School FFA chapter recently acknowledged the 2023-24 seniors. Pictured (from
Grant Johnson, Aaron Dallman, Sam Appel and Zach Peirson. In the back row are Tymon Runkle, Chris Symons, Kaeden Motszko, Ethan Bocker and Dylon Timmer.
program and leadership in the district.
The Heslop family, which always is willing to help out the chapter including providing the shop for the 1949 CASE VAC tractor restoration project, also was chosen as an honorary member. Raffle tickets for the tractor are on sale.
Alumni awarded $500 scholarships to seniors Sam Appel and Brynn Lamm. Another $500 scholarship was awarded by the family of Keith Reemtsma in his memory. It was presented to Kaeden Motszko by Reemts-
ma’s grandson Aaron Dallman.
The 2024-25 Forreston FFA officers were installed. Co-presidents are Myers and Kirchner, vice president is Kyla Lamm, treasurer is Jenna Alexander, secretary is Cylee Kirchner,
reporter is Emma Lenkaitis, co-sentinels are Miller and Bocker and the CDE manager is Josiah Newill.
Members also recognized the seniors for their time and effort the past four years.
FORRESTON – Forreston FFA and high school agriculture program students opened their annual greenhouse sale Saturday. New plants will be offered as well as many old favorites.
“The number of vegetables available has increased and we will continue to offer more than 200 beautiful hanging baskets,” FFA adviser Kelley Parks said.
The greenhouse will be open on the following dates and times:
As your local, trusted partner, we are committed to guiding you through every step of your home buying journey, ensuring a smooth and supportive experience.
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• Friday, May 3, 3 to 5:30 p.m.
• Saturday, May 4, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Tuesday, May 7, 3 to 5:30 p.m.
• Friday, May 10, 3 to 5:30 p.m.
• Saturday, May 11, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Tuesday, May 14, 3 to 5:30 p.m.
• Friday, May 17, 3 to 5:30 p.m.
• Saturday, May 18, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“We have also partnered with Koeller Forreston Hardware, who will sell plants while supplies last,” Parks said. “Dates are subject to change due to weather or supply. Please follow our Facebook page for updates.”
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
OREGON – Chance Munroe has been named executive director for the Oregon Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber announced his hiring April 26 in a news release saying Munroe has a “rich background spanning retail, health care and diverse organizational roles.”
“With him, he brings a wealth of experience to his new position. Chance also brings with him experience working with community mem -
bers, businesses, elected officials, as well as members of the media,” the release said.
Munroe is a 2013 graduate of Oregon High School and has “roots embedded in the Oregon area going back generations.”
Munroe attended Sauk Valley Community College and National University in San Diego, California,
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
OREGON – PEO Chapter IU held its Spring Puzzle Palooza, a jigsaw puzzle competition to see who can complete the same 500-piece puzzle the fastest within a two-hour time frame.
Finishing first with a time of 1:03:30 was Kayla Gluck, Erika Hancock, Deanna Peterson and Katie Harback.
In second place were Joanne Carr, Paula Heitter, Desa Richards and Donna Carlson with a time of 1:11:45. They were last fall’s winners.
Puzzle Palooza is a fundraiser sponsored by PEO, a philanthropic organization where women celebrate the advancement of women, educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans and stewardship of Cottey College and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations.
where he graduated in 2023.
“Now he’s back home, eager to contribute his knowledge and skills to the betterment of the community he loves,” the release said. “Chance’s vision for the Chamber is clear: Uplift city morale, empower local businesses and their owners, as well as champion all things Oregon. His door will always be open, whether you have a question, a concern or just want to chat. Catch him around town and don’t hesitate to reach out. Chance is here to make a difference, one interaction at a time.”
Munroe said he was excited to be back in Oregon.
“I’m excited to be back in Oregon and helping shape the city that shaped me,” he said. “Oregon is one of the more beautiful communities in our region and I look forward to being a part of expanding our reach and growing into the thriving community we all know Oregon can be. It’s a big job. But if we can all work together for the betterment of Oregon and all those who call it home, it can be done. Let’s grow Oregon together and help uncover it to the rest of the area.”
Every ride with Lee-Ogle Transportation System isn’t just about getting from point A to B; it’s a step toward fostering a community where care, accessibility, and support are extended to all.
We are more than just transit. Our commitment is to inclusivity and caring for those who choose to ride with us. By choosing LOTS for yourself or a loved one, you’re ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to travel with ease and dignity. Together, let’s keep our community moving forward.
Ride with LOTS – where every journey strengthens our community bonds.
Chance Munroe
Photo provided by Pam Steele
Oregon 7, Polo 1: The Hawks scored five runs in the fifth inning to secure a nonconference win over the Marcos on Saturday.
Jackson Messenger totaled three RBIs for Oregon. Bryce Becker pitched six innings for the win, allowing one earned run on two hits and striking out 12 with four walks.
Carter Merdian went 1 for 3 and scored the only run for Polo.
Kaneland 7, Forreston 1: The Knights scored six runs in the fifth inning to claim a nonconference win over the Cardinals. Kendall Erdmann went 2 for 4 for Forreston.
Forreston 15, Ashton-Franklin Center 0 (4 inn.): Daniel Koehl went 2 for 3 with five RBIs as the Cardinals defeated the Raiders by run rule.
Brendan Greenfield went 2 for 4 with two RBIs and Carson Akins went 2 for 3 and scored three runs for Forreston.
Alex Ryia pitched 31/3 scoreless innings for the win, allowing three hits and striking out three with two walks.
Polo 8, Eastland 5: Nolan Hahn went 4 for 5 with an RBI as the Marcos downed the Cougars in an NUIC South matchup.
Gus Mumford went 3 for 3 with an RBI and two walks and Scott Robertson totaled three RBIs for Polo.
Hahn pitched five innings for the
win, allowing three runs (two earned) on six hits and striking out eight with one walk.
Hunter Miller and Cole Huber each tallied two hits for Eastland. Miller had three RBIs.
Forreston 19, Ashton-Franklin Center 9 (6 inn.): The Cardinals scored 12 third-inning runs and cruised to a run-rule win over the Raiders.
Alec Schoonhoven went 3 for 4 with five RBIs, Patrick Wichman went 3 for 4 with an RBI and Brendan Greenfield went 2 for 4 with two RBIs and three runs for Forreston.
Caleb Thomas went 2 for 4 with five RBIs and Barrett Becker went 2 for 4 with two RBIs for AFC.
Eastland 11, Polo 0: The Cougars scored in every inning after the second to earn an NUIC South win over the Marcos.
Peyton Spears went 3 for 4 with two RBIs, Hunter Miller went 2 for 4 with three RBIs and Brayden Jackson hit a solo home run for Eastland.
Spears and Trevor Janssen combined for the shutout. Spears pitched 42/3 innings for the win, allowing four hits and striking out nine with four walks.
Gus Mumford went 2 for 3 with a walk to lead Polo.
Oregon 7, Rockford Christian 3: The Hawks scored seven fourth-inning runs and held off the Royal Lions for a BNC win.
call
Logan Weems went 2 for 2 with two RBIs and Jack Washburn and Gavin Morrow each chipped in two RBIs.
Washburn earned the complete-game win, allowing three runs (two earned) on seven hits and striking out three with one walk.
Ashton-Franklin Center 6-3, Polo 1-7: The Marcos and Raiders split the NUIC South doubleheader.
In the opener, Scott Robertson went 2 for 3, including a double, to lead Polo. On the AFC side, Brock Lehman blasted a solo home run for his only hit. Caleb Thomas earned the win for the Raiders, allowing one earned run on five hits and striking out seven with two walks.
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In game two, Gus Mumford went 3 for 3 with two RBIs and Jeffrey Donaldson went 2 for 3 with three RBIs to lead Polo. Logan Nelson pitched three innings for the win, allowing one earned run on one hit and striking out three with one walk. Ben Rockwood tallied two RBIs for the Raiders.
Forreston 11, Winnebago 2: The Cardinals took a 4-2 lead after three innings and pulled away for the win with the six-run sixth.
Alec Schoonhoven went 2 for 3 with three RBIs and scored three runs and Patrick Wichman went 2 for 3 with two RBIs for Forreston.
Daniel Koehl and Kendall Erdmann each pitched two shutout innings for the Cardinals.
Forreston 12, Amboy 3: The Cardinals rallied from a 3-0 second-inning deficit to claim an NUIC South win over the Clippers.
Brendan Greenfield went 3 for 5 with four RBIs, including three doubles, and Daniel Koehl went 2 for 3 with two RBIs for Forreston.
Landon Montavon went 2 for 4 and
Landon Whelchel chipped in two RBIs for Amboy.
Oregon 7, Genoa-Kingston 6: The Hawks took a 7-4 lead in the fourth inning and held off the Cogs for a BNC win. Logan Weems and Keaton Salsbury each had two hits to lead Oregon.
Oregon 16-18, Rockford Lutheran 5-4: The Hawks swept the Crusaders in a BNC doubleheader, extending their winning streak to six games.
Gracen Pitts contributed three home runs and eight RBIs as Oregon
totaled 30 combined hits in both games. Hayleigh Heuerman homered in Game 2 for the Hawks.
Polo 15, Eastland 4: At Lanark, the Lady Marcos took a 4-1 lead after the first inning and cruised past the Cougars for an NUIC South win.
Camrynn Jones doubled twice on four hits for three RBIs, Karlea Frey tallied three hits and four RBIs and Isabella Witkowski had two hits and two RBIs for Polo. Allissa Marschang and Sydnei Rahn added three hits each for the Lady Marcos.
Continued
Earleen Hinton Polo’s Scott Robertson connects on a pitch against Oregon on April 27.
Earleen Hinton
It is Friday evening, April 26, and instead of sitting in front of my computer writing this, I wish I was at Lander-Loomis Field. That is where the most significant boys track meet of the regular season for northern Illinois small schools would have been taking place.
Actually, with more than 20 schools, the Hawk Classic is more competitive than a sectional. Unfortunately, inclement weather forced its cancellation, leaving a lot of what-ifs.
Such as how state powers Winnebago, Lena-Winslow and Morrison would fare against defending Class 1A champ Forreston-Polo in the 400 relay. Or sophomore sensation Brady Anderson of Morrison against 200meter state champ Supreme Muhammad of Winnebago.
The meet also would have featured the top two returning state-placing triple jumpers, several quality distance runners from Newman and Rockford Christian and a ballyhooed pole vault competition between Leo Cardenas of Oregon and Andrew Nuyen of Rochelle. The list goes on and on of the talent that would have been on display.
Oregon also took a huge financial hit with the lost gate and concessions. With other weather cancellations, it leaves the Hawks with only two boys home meets this season, the fewest
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Cheyenna Wilkins earned the complete-game win, allowing three earned runs on three hits and striking out 11 with one walk.
Gracie Steidinger went 2 for 3 and Olivia Klinefelter tallied three RBIs for Eastland.
Forreston 8, Ashton-Franklin Center 2: The Cardinals took a 4-1 lead in the third inning and held off the Raiders for an NUIC South win.
Bailey Sterling, Jenna Greenfield and Nevaeh Houston each went 3 for 4 for Forreston.
Isabella Thiel earned the complete-game win, allowing two earned runs on six hits and striking out seven with three walks.
Oregon 12, Dixon 3: The Hawks scored in every inning after the first to secure a BNC win over the Duchesses.
Olivia Paul went 3 for 5 with five RBIs and Gracen Pitts went 3 for 4 with two RBIs for Oregon. Paul and Pitts both hit a home run.
Elly Brown and Kiley Gaither each went 2 for 4 for Dixon. Gaither had two RBIs.
Eastland 11, Polo 8: The Cougars rallied from a 5-2 third-inning deficit to
in many decades.
Any hope of rescheduling for Saturday went by the wayside with several schools, including Oregon, having prom. There also was a logistics issue of pulling everything together on a different day.
All sports are seeing the effects of northern Illinois spring weather. To avoid it, baseball experimented with a summer schedule in the 1970s.
Although the weather was much more preferable, the experiment lasted only for a few years. With school being done, it was discovered that kids lost interest in anything school-related and turned their focus elsewhere.
Another experiment that began in the 1970s was the use of metric measurement at track meets. There even was talk of changing state highway signs to metric.
That idea soon went by the wayside as the average American citizen refused to learn the metric system. Fifty years later, we still like our feet, yards and miles better.
It’s a shame the governing body for
claim an NUIC South win over the Lady Marcos.
Sophie Preston 3 for 4 with two RBIs, including two doubles, and Olivia Klinefelter went 2 for 5 with two RBIs for Eastland.
Camrynn Jones went 4 for 4 with three RBIs, including a home run, and Karlea Frey went 3 for 4 with an RBI for Polo.
Amboy 12, Forreston 1 (5 inn.): The Clippers scored six first-inning runs en route to a run-rule win over the Cardinals. Chesnek had a double for the Cardinals.
Oregon 3, North Boone 1: Deb Schmid scored two goals to lead the Hawks past the Vikings. Anna Stender scored one goal and assisted on one and Kenna Wubbena chipped in two assists for Oregon.
Oregon 7, Mendota 0: The Hawks beat the Trojans to improve to 9-1 on the season.
Anna Stender and Kenna Wubbena led Oregon with two goals each, while Deb Schmid, Teagan Champley and Aniyah Sarver added one goal each. Stender, Schmid and Champley had one assist each. Mili Zavala recorded three saves for the Hawks.
high school track in Illinois still insists on measuring heights and distances in metric. I’ve been around the pole vault forever and still don’t know what a 4.27-meter clearance is, but that same mark listed at 14 feet makes complete sense to me.
Most other states measure the good old-fashioned American way. Oh, well, there are bigger problems on the local sports scene such as Freeport Aquin recently informing parents that the school soon may close.
The reasons cited were shortfalls in enrollment and funding. This has been an ongoing story and the Catholic Diocese of Rockford was expected to address the issue this week.
Aquin, which opened 100 years ago, has a proud sports tradition in the NUIC, with three state football titles, two in girls basketball and one in volleyball. When the conference was formed in 1974, it was a charter member.
Going into Tuesday’s play, Byron (6-1) and Oregon (6-1) were tied for first place in soccer in the Big Northern. Close behind is Stillman (5-2), which handed Byron its loss.
The win over Byron gave SV a No. 1 seed in the sub-sectional over the No. 2 Tigers.
Oregon handily beat Dixon but lost 2-1 to Byron. That is the Hawks’ only loss and they will be a No. 2 seed to
Rock Island Alleman at the other sub-sectional feeding into the Indian Creek Sectional.
Alleman was the state runner-up last season. In 1A soccer, the majority of top programs are private schools.
It’s coming down to Dixon and Byron for BNC baseball supremacy with the teams still having two games against each other. Dixon brought in a 15-2 record; its only losses were in extra innings. The Dukes have been league champs the past four years, but Byron is poised to take away the crown.
It was a wild and woolly baseball game April 25 between Oregon and Winnebago. While at the pole vault pit for practice, I caught glimpses of ’Bago batters pounding hit after hit in the top of the first inning. Oregon then began doing the same thing in the bottom of the first.
After three innings, it was Oregon up 16-9. Seemed like a safe lead, but in a game like this, not really. The Indians scored five runs in the top of the seventh to pull out an 18-17 win.
To their credit, they did outhit Oregon 21-12 and the 35 runs was a higher amount than the total hits.
• Andy Colbert, an avid runner, has been a sports writer for Shaw Media and has covered high school sports in Ogle County for more than 31 years.
Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle reports the following activity:
April 22
Nicholas Schultheis, 39, of Dixon, was arrested for two outstanding Lee County warrants for bond condition violations and a Whiteside County warrant for failure to appear. Schultheis also was arrested for possession of methamphetamine (Class 4 felony), aggravated fleeing to elude (Class 4 felony), obstructing a peace officer (Class 4 felony), possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while license suspended and resisting a peace officer. Schultheis also was cited for speeding 35 mph over the speed limit, disobeying two stop signs, defective windshield, improper display of registration and operating an uninsured vehicle. About 2:42 a.m., deputies performed a traffic stop near the intersection of Leaf River Road and Illinois Route 64. While approaching the red Toyota Camry, the vehicle sped off and failed to stop at the intersection of Route 64 and Leaf River Road. The Toyota Camry traveled east on Route 64 at speeds of 35 mph over the speed limit while deputies pursued with lights and sirens activated. The vehicle continued into Oregon city limits and traveled through a yard at the intersection of Mix and Jackson streets before coming to rest. A male driver, identified as Schultheis, fled the scene on foot and deputies were unable to locate him at the time. A female passenger initially was detained but later released. About 12:15 p.m., deputies did a welfare check of a male walking without a shirt in the 1600 block of south Illinois Route 2. Deputies found the male and identified him as Schultheis, who lied about his name before being taken into custody. Schultheis was taken to the Ogle County jail. Schultheis was released on a notice to appear on the Ogle County charges and held on the warrants from Lee and Whiteside counties.
Alexander Briseno, 34, of Sterling, was arrested for driving while license suspended and an active Whiteside County warrant after a traffic stop in the 2000 block of South Freeport Road about 8:15 a.m. Briseno was released from the scene on a notice to appear and released to Whiteside County deputies.
April 23
Andrew Gonzales, 22, of Dixon, was arrested for aggravated fleeing to elude (Class 4 felony) and driving while under the influence of alcohol and drugs. At 4:21 a.m., a deputy attempted to stop a blue Genesis passenger in the 500 block of West Flagg Road. While the deputy’s lights and sirens were activated, the
vehicle sped away and refused to stop. The deputy observed the vehicle traveling 35 mph over the posted speed limit of 55 mph and initially lost sight of the vehicle before finding it after it crashed near the intersection of Rock Nation and Lost Nation roads. Gonzales was uninjured in the crash. Gonzales also was cited for disregarding a traffic control device, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident, improper lane use, operating an uninsured vehicle, reckless driving, speeding 35 mph over the posted speed limit and use of an electronic communications device. Gonzales was taken to the Ogle County jail, released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.
Breanna C. Hansen, 35, of Rochelle, was arrested for driving while under the influence of drugs after a traffic stop at 5:26 p.m. at the intersection of Illinois Route 64 and White Rock Road on a vehicle reported to have been involved in a break-in and reckless driving complaint the previous day. Hansen also was charged with unlawful possession of ammunition by a felon and possession of drug paraphernalia and cited for speeding 26 to 34 mph over the limit and improper lane use. Hansen was taken to the Ogle County jail and held pending a court appearance.
April 24
Scott Thompson, 62, of Forreston, was cited for failure to obey a stop sign, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident and operating a motor vehicle with expired driver’s license after deputies and Forreston Fire Protection District and EMS responded to a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of North Freeport and West Lanark roads about 4:30 p.m. An investigation showed Thompson was driving a Dodge Ram 3500 west on West Lanark Road when he failed to stop for the stop sign and entered the intersection. His vehicle was struck by a southbound Ford F150 driven by Jessica Bucher, 46, of Polo. Bucher was taken to FHN Memorial Hospital for minor injuries. Thompson was given a future court date.
Ashley Paddie, 33, of Oregon, was arrested for driving while license suspended after a traffic stop in the area of East Washington Street and North Etnyre Avenue in Oregon at 5:29 p.m. Paddie also was cited for expired registration. Paddie was released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.
Deputies, Byron police and the Byron Fire Protection District responded to a single-vehicle rollover in the 10000 block of North Tower Road at 6:01 p.m. An investigation showed a vehicle driven by
Kim Berg, 54, of Byron, was southbound on North Tower Road when it left the roadway, reentered the roadway, overcorrected and rolled several times before coming to rest in a field. Berg was taken to SwedishAmerican Hospital for injuries.
Timothy D. Slater, 53, of Forreston, was arrested for criminal damage to property after deputies responded to a damage to property complaint in the 100 block of East Pine Street in Forreston at 8:37 p.m. Slater was taken to the Ogle County jail, released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.
Dustin Grove, 41, of Byron, was arrested for driving while license suspended after a traffic stop at North Tower and Water roads in Byron at 10:01 p.m. Grove was taken to the Ogle County jail, released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.
April 25
Seraiah Menendez, 23, of Freeport, was arrested for no valid driver’s license after a traffic stop near the intersection of Freeport and Sterling roads about 12:05 a.m. Menendez also was cited for suspended registration. Menendez was released on a notice to appear.
Nakia F. Fields Jr., 27, of Stillman Valley, was arrested for driving on a suspended license after a traffic stop at the intersection of South Rural Road and West Pershing Street in Stillman Valley at 11:31 p.m. Fields also was cited for one headlight. Fields was released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.
April 26
Tony Parker, 38, of Rock Island, was arrested for an outstanding warrant for driving on a suspended license after turning himself in at the Ogle County jail about 7:55 a.m. There was no bond set on the warrant. Parker appeared in court, was released and given a court date of 9 a.m. May 13.
Jesus Padilla, 39, of Aurora, turned himself in on an outstanding Ogle County warrant about 6:19 p.m. Padilla posted bond and was released without a court date.
April 27
Stalena Yates, 43, of Freeport, was cited for driving while license suspended and expired registration after a traffic stop at West Goose Hollow and North Freeport roads about 9:08 a.m. Yates was released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.
Ron Siebert, 42, of Beloit, Wisconsin, was arrested for driving while license revoked after a traffic stop near the intersection of Freeport Road and Illinois Route 64 about noon. Siebert also was
cited for improper display of registration. Siebert was taken to the Ogle County jail, released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.
Cari K. Joens, 33, of Forreston, was arrested for battery after deputies responded to reports of a disturbance in the 15000 block of west Illinois Route 72 at 6:01 p.m. Joens was taken to the Ogle County jail, released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.
Dana Capasso-Sutherland, 31, of Lanark, was arrested on a Stephenson County warrant after a traffic stop in the 16000 block of west Illinois Route 72 at 6:39 p.m. Capasso-Sutherland also was cited for possession of cannabis/improper container, no muffler and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Capasso-Sutherland was taken to the Stephenson County jail and held in lieu of bond.
Joslyn Saleda, 32, was arrested for aggravated domestic battery after deputies responded to a domestic disturbance in the 6000 block of North Summit Drive in Byron about 11:29 p.m. Saleda was taken to the Ogle County jail and held pending a court appearance.
April 28
Benjamin Spana, 39, of Rochelle, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance (Class 4 felony) and driving while license revoked after a traffic stop in the 500 block of west Illinois Route 38 in Rochelle about 12:10 p.m. Spana also was cited for unlawful possession of cannabis as a driver, no splash guards when required and illegal window tint. Spana was taken to the Ogle County jail, released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.
Paul Merritt, 41, of Rochelle, was arrested for driving while license revoked after a traffic stop at the intersection of 15th Street and First Avenue in Rochelle about 10:19 p.m. Merritt was taken to the Ogle County jail, released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.
April 29
Deputies responded to a two-vehicle crash in the 10100 block of east Illinois Route 72 at 10:17 a.m. with injuries reported. An investigation showed Michelle Wills, 62, of Stillman Valley, suffered injuries. She was taken by Stillman Valley Fire Protection District to SwedishAmerican Hospital. Jeremiah Whitmire, 43, of Stillman Valley, was taken by Stillman Valley Fire Protection District to SwedishAmerican Hospital. An investigation is pending.
Charges are accusations and all subjects are presumed innocent unless proved guilty in a court of law.
OGLE COUNTY – The Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department is reminding rural residents that burning waste piles comprised of furniture, mattresses and other materials is not legal.
During the past several weeks, the OCSWM has received and responded to multiple complaints referencing waste piles and burn piles in the rural areas of Ogle County. Examples of items found on these piles include mattresses, box springs, furniture, cabinetry, flooring materials, general construction and demolition debris and general household trash bags containing foam products, plastics and textiles.
“It also appears to be a very common mindset, particularly in rural areas, that the open burning of waste materials is a normal and legal manner of disposing of waste that has been going on for many years. The toxic burn barrel has also been a common fixture in many areas for on-site waste disposal,” the OCSWM said in a news release. “Throughout Illinois and Ogle County, statewide regulations and county ordinances prohibit the open burning of waste materials, no matter where one may reside.”
Statewide regulations prohibit air pollution thoughout the state.
“Air pollution has a definition and entails releasing particulate matter (smoke) or other contaminants into the air of the state, causing harm to human health, harming plant and animal life, harming the environment or otherwise impacting the enjoyment of life and/or property for neighbors. In other words, smoke from open burning that impacts neighbors in a negative way is in violation of state law,” the release said.
“The modern waste stream has evolved in the past several years,” the release said. “No longer is the waste stream basic paper products or materials based with natural fibers such as cotton or wool. The modern waste stream is made up of products we use then discard and mostly all of this material now is synthetic and petroleum-based.”
The modern waste stream is dominated by plastics, resins, rubber, foam material, films, laminated items, PFAS’s and other synthetic (manmade) materials. When these materials are openly burned, they release an array of toxins and carcinogens too long to list. These toxic chemicals pollute the air, ground and groundwater and impact human health. The leftover ash and debris is toxic and contaminated as well, the release said.
Modern furniture, mattresses, cabinetry, carpet and even wood products are increasingly formed and coated
with resins, glues, laminates and fire-retardant materials. Plastics and films are essentially solid petroleum and textiles are polyesters and mixtures of chemical compounds and not natural fibers.
The open burning of landscape, domicile and agricultural wastes is permitted in rural areas of the county. These wastes must be generated and/ or grown on-site and include yard waste, tree limbs and brush, personal documents and clean paper products and agricultural bedding and natural fiber materials produced as part of an agricultural operation on that property.
Nothing in the regulations or county ordinances prohibit recreational or cooking fires using natural wood/wood products or ecological burns, although permits may be required for certain burning activities, the release said.
“There are some exemptions to these regulations and ordinances, while municipalities may have stricter regulations and timelines for open burning for their residents,” the release said.
The OCSWMD encourages residents and businesses to first reduce waste they produce, then seek reuse options for certain items, then recycling, composting and mulching of items that cannot be reused. Final disposal in an Illinois EPA-permitted
landfill or transfer station is then required for the final disposal of materials that have met their end of life. The open burning of waste materials is prohibited throughout Illinois and enforced under the Environmental Protection Act and appropriate county ordinances by the OCSWMD. Fines are assessed though administrative citation or through the Ogle County State’s Attorney under provisions in the Environmental Protection Act.
In rural areas of the county there are exemptions for the open burning of certain waste streams. Under no circumstances may open burning cause nuisance smoke conditions or create air pollution for adjacent property owners. If conducting an open burn, be sure to monitor the burn and weather conditions, set back the burn areas from structures or agricultural fields and have extinguishment methods at the ready, the release said.
The department encourages the composting and mulching of landscape waste and agricultural wastes as opposed to open burning. In some municipalities waste haulers conduct seasonal pickup of landscape waste as well as composting of these materials. For more information about responsible waste disposal, open burning regulations, recycling, composting and other alternatives to open burning, call the OCSWMD at 815-732-4020 or check the county website.
Rock River Center is a resource center located at 810 S. 10th St. in Oregon. Activities and trips are open to all ages. Call 815-732-3252 for assistance with the benefit access application for a license plate discount, Medicare, housing, homemaker service, heating assistance or other things.
Visit www.rockrivercenter.org for more information.
Upcoming events:
Blood drive: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 6.
Donors should call Rock River Center at 815-732-3252 or 815-965-8751. Appointments are encouraged. Walk-ins are welcome.
Alzheimer’s caregiver program: 10:30 a.m. May 9. Candid discussion on Alzheimer’s caregiving. Registration is requested. Call 815-732-3252 or stop by
the Rock River Center to sign up.
Outing of the Month: May 10. Franklin Creek Grist Mill. Limited bus seating. Register by May 8.
VA rep: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 10 Craft group: 9 to 10 a.m. May 13. Project is “Laced Up” flower pots Support groups at the center: Cancer Support Group: 2 to 3 p.m. fourth Wednesday in February, May,
August and November
Caregiver Support Group: 10 to 11:30 a.m. third Tuesday of the month
Diabetic Support Group: 11 a.m. to noon first Wednesday of the month
Low Vision Group: Noon to 1:30 p.m. second and fourth Tuesday of the month For information on the support groups, call the Rock River Center at 815-7323252 or 1-800-541-5479.
Born: September 9, 1938 in Rome, GA
Died: April 24, 2024 in Oregon, IL
Oregon, Illinois - Frances Pauline Strouse passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on April 24th. She was born on September 9th, 1938, to J. Frank and Exie (Garner) Rozar in Rome, Georgia. They moved to Perry, Georgia where she attended school and graduated in 1956. After high school she attended South Georgia College where she met R. Terrell Puckett. They married and had two daughters, Pamela and Cynthia. After they divorced, she married Walt Shrader and moved to Oregon, IL in 1968. They divorced a few years later. Fran then met and married the love of her life, Clinton Strouse, in 1978 and became stepmother to Michelle and Christopher Strouse. Fran worked at Kable News and then at the Ogle County Courthouse as the switchboard operator and receptionist for 20 years, retiring in 1998. Many remember her beautiful smile and southern accent. Fran was very active in local community service and volunteered with many organizations. In 1996 she joined and helped revive the Oregon
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The law allows defendants to be released on a no-cash bond, but a judge still decides whether a defendant is a flight risk or poses too much of a threat to one person or the community to allow release.
At a Dec. 27 detention hearing, Leisten argued that Pearson should not be released from custody because criminal
Women’s Club serving as president for ten years then becoming district co-president. She received her 25-year pin at a surprise luncheon last year. Fran and Clint were honored at the 2006 Autumn On Prade Festival as the Guests of Honor and rode in a horse drawn carriage in the parade. She loved reading in her spare time and treasured the Oregon Library. Fran loved her family, friends, and community. She had many spoiled Boston terriers throughout the years, too. She is survived by her husband Clinton; daughters Pam Puckett (Sue Wepfer) of Madison, WI; Cindy (Brad) Stewart of Oregon, IL; and stepdaughter Michelle Armstrong (Bud Porter) of Byron, IL. Fran’s grandsons were her sunshine. They are Dylan Puckett of Mt Morris, IL; Christopher Armstrong of Rockford, IL; and Reese Armstrong of Champaign, IL. Fran is predeceased by her father, J. Frank Rozar and mother, Exie (Garner) Rozar and stepson, Christopher Strouse. Funeral service will be held 11:00 AM, Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at the Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, 110 S. 7th Street in Oregon, IL with the Rev. Michael Hoffman officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service at the funeral home from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Burial will follow the service at Daysville Cemetery. A memorial fund is established in Fran’s name for the Serenity Hospice and Home. Visit www. farrellhollandgale.com to leave a condolence or memory of Fran.
sexual assault qualifies as a “detainable offense.”
Leisten said police reports indicated the assault took place on the south end of Polo about 10:50 p.m. at or near the Village Inn Motel. He said the victim told police that Pearson put his hand over her mouth and said he “would kill her” if she made noise. Leisten said she told police that she was raped twice.
Leisten also told the court that the girl was taken to KSB for sexual assault testing, with those results being sent to
April 19-24
Warranty deeds
Webster H. and Ralph H. Burke
Testamentary Trust, Continental Illinois National Bank and Trust Co. of Chicago and Bank of America, trustees, to David Justin and Gail Elizabeth Myers, one parcel in Byron Township, $362,686.
Sara Khan to Jennifer Gilroy, 202 Wisconsin Lane, Dixon and one parcel in Taylor Township, $3,000.
John C. Barncord to Ethan Jack and Annika Mackenzie Groom, 612 S. Fourth Ave., Forreston, $121,000.
Keith and Dawn Reints to Bernardina
Nava, 1414 Brookside Drive, Rochelle, $226,000.
Melvin Fay and Susan L. Milnes to State of Illinois Dept. of Transportation, 501 N. Walnut Ave., Forreston, $300.
Arlene J. Smith to Michael Hurst, 102 N. Main St., Stillman Valley, $75,000.
First Choice Rentals LLC to Jamie L. and Matthew P. Pendergrass, 230 N. Lafayette St., Byron, $163,500.
Carrie and Steven Moore to Michael O. and Hannah M. Chernick, 761 N. Old Hunter Run, Byron, $171,000.
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to LKBL Properties LLC, 1009 S. Fourth St., Oregon, $50,000.
By ALEXA ZOELLNER azoellner@shawmedia.comOREGON – Oregon is officially a Tree City USA.
During the April 23 Oregon City Council meeting, City Manager Darin DeHaan presented Mayor Ken Williams with a plaque honoring the city’s designation, which was received in March.
“This has been a project that we started in 2021,” DeHaan said. “I’m proud of our community, proud of our mayor’s leadership and glad to present him this plaque.”
Getting the designation is a big deal, Williams said.
“In small, rural communities like Oregon, you always think of the treelined streets and the trees in the summer and we feel like a community,” he said. “I love that. I’m glad we’re doing that and I know we have resources set aside to help fund our tree policy and some of the things going with that.”
Tree City USA was created by the Arbor Day Foundation in 1976, according to ArborDay.org. A community can receive annual Tree City recognition by meeting four overarching standards:
the Illinois State Police crime lab. Motel records indicated Pearson had registered for a room for one night Dec. 13, 2022, Leisten said.
When questioned by Chicago Metro Police, Leisten said Pearson denied knowing the girl or having been in or knowing of Polo or Ogle County.
Pearson also told Chicago investigators that he had been texting with a Polo girl on the internet with the dating app Plenty of Fish, Leisten said. He said Pearson told police he thought he had
1. Maintain a tree board or department.
City Council members unanimously voted to create the Oregon Tree Board on June 28, 2022. Members of the board met three times before its official creation.
2. Have a community tree ordinance.
A tree preservation regulations ordinance was unanimously approved by council members Nov. 8, 2022.
3. Spend at least $2 per resident on urban forestry.
Oregon has a population of 3,604, according to the 2020 census, which means the city must spend at least $7,208 on tree removals, pruning and plantings annually.
In 2023, the city received a $4,700 grant to conduct tree inventory, something that hadn’t been done since 1998.
4. Celebrate Arbor Day.
Illinois observes Arbor Day on the last Friday in April.
City officials planned to plant a tree at the city’s wastewater treatment plant April 26 but rescheduled because of weather, DeHaan said. A new date has not yet been chosen.
Oregon was unable to gain Tree City USA status in 2023 because of deadlines.
“hooked up” with her and acknowledged they had sex.
Pearson’s past criminal history includes a charge of battery in Kane County in 2020, Leisten said.
Redington agreed to release Pearson with the conditions that he not have any contact with the alleged victim. He also told Pearson that he could not be within the city limits of Polo “under any circumstances” while the case is pending. Pearson is set to appear in court again at 1 p.m. June 12.
Quit claim deeds
Plum Electric Inc. to DLMJ Investments LLC, 419, 421 and 423 E. Hitt St., Mt. Morris, $0. Hickory Ridge III LLC to Spencer L. and Karen A. Hayden, one parcel in Flagg Township, $0.
Trustees deeds
Craig D. Thibodeau Revocable Declaration Trust, Kristen L. Boyer and Megan M. Thibodeau, trustees, to Nathaniel S. and Justine M. Davis, 10225 N. Hoisington Road, Byron, $425,000.
Rosalind B. Wakem Testamentary Trust, Gary D. Hansen, trustee, to Ronald and Michelle Michelon, 3646 W. Illinois St., Grand Detour $165,000.
Union Church of Monroe Center, Lyddia A. Hare, Vicki R. Rippentrop and Rosemary Hall, trustees, to Quinlan K. Tofa and Alexandra M. Schlosser, one parcel in Monroe Township, $87,500.
Vivian El Louise Heitz Revocable Trust, Agnew Law Offices PC, trustee, to Ross and Lori Peebles Family Trust, Lori A. and Ross W. Peebles, trustees, one parcel in Buffalo Township, $0. Melvin H. and Alaine Fae Haak Trust and Trust 1, Farmers National Bank, trustee, to Martin E. and Melissa S. Haak and Melaine F. Rude, four parcels in Woosung Township, $0.
Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office
Sterling Systems & Controls, Inc for over 50 years has designed, engineered and specialized in producing customized material weighing and batching systems , bulk bag filling/packaging stations, bulk bag unloading systems, process controls and plantwide automation systems
40 hour weekly Monday - Friday Onsite: Sterling, IL
This role is pivotal in providing comprehensive support to our Regional Sales Managers by assisting in customer lead and proposal follow-ups, CRM data maintenance, and contributing to the overall organization's sales strategy
Principal Responsibilities:
Assist Regional Sales Managers in day-to-day activities:
Assist with new lead qualifications and follow-up directly with customers.
Create and/ or review proposal packages for customers before they are submitted
Gain proficiency in Sterling product offerings including products integrated fr om 3rd party vendors.
Assist in post propo sal follo w- up directly with customers.
Becoming proficient and taking lead role in HubSpo t CRM administration
Understand and manage sales aspects of Visual ERP System
Identify key competitors, their offerings and increase Sterling's market share positio n. Minimal travel required but could be asked to attend Trade Sho ws as directed by Sales Manager
Skills:
Accuracy and high attention to detail.
Demonstrate exceptional organizat ional skills, managing multiple projects simultaneously. Excellent verbal and written grammar skills.
Strong computer proficiency, including knowledge of MS Office Suite
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment and meet deadlines.
Knowledge, Education or Experience:
Previous sales administration or technical inside sales experience
Knowledgeable with sales CRM software. (HubSpo t)
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY - OREGON, ILLINOIS
Citibank, N.A as Owner Trustee of New Residential Mortgage Loan Trust 2018-1 PLAINTIFF
Vs. Timothy J. Danner; et. al. DEFENDANTS
No. 2023FC20
NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Forecl osure and Sale entered in the above cause on 12/15/2023, the Sheriff of Ogle County, Illinois will on June 14, 2024 at the hour of 10:00 AM at Ogle County Public Safety Complex 202 S 1st St. Oregon, IL 61061, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of Ogle and State of Illinois, sell at public au ction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate: PIN 03-12-127-006
Improved with Si ngle Family Home COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 3569 West Egan Road Egan AKA Leaf River, IL 61047 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 calc ulated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fracti on thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due within twenty-four (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 r epresentati on as to qua lity or quantity of title and without recourse to Pla intiff 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, pur chasers 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 fur ther recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee 's attorney. Upon pay ment in ful l of the amount bid, the purchaser shall rece ive 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 ope n for ins pection and Plaintiff makes no represen tation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all infor mation 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 SECTIO N 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
For informati on: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff's attor ney: Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontag e Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876. Please refer to file number 14-23-00010. I3243103
May 3, 10, 17, 2024
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY - OREGON, ILLINOIS
SELECT PORTFOLIO SERVI CING, INC.,
PLAINTIFF
vs.
UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW AND LEGATEES OF KATIE GREEN; U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION; WILLIAM BUTCHER AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR KATIE GREEN, DECEASED; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD
CLAIMANTS, DEFENDANTS
NO. 2023FC57
Address: 508 W. Fulton Street Polo, IL 61064
NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Forecl osure and Sale entered in the above cause on March 22, 2024, I, She riff of Ogle County, Illinois, will on May 31, 2024 at the hour of 10:00 AM at the Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061 , or in a pl ace otherwise designated at the time of sale , County of Ogle, State of Illinois, sell at pub lic auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate:
COMMON ADDRESS: 508 W. Fulton Stree t, Polo, IL 61064
P.I.N.: 14-09-376-001
The real estate is improved with a single family residence THE JUDGM ENT AMOUNT WAS: $90,374.52
Sale terms: 25% down by certified funds; the balance, by certified funds, is due wit hin twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to 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 su bjec t to confirmat ion by the court.
Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchase r 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 and Plaintiff makes no representations as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court fil e to verify all informat ion.
Pursuant to 735 ILCS 5/15-1512, the amounts of any surplus bid will be held by the sheriff until a part y obtains a Court Order for its distribution, or for 60 days following the date of the entry of the order confirming sale, at which time, in the absence of an order directing pay ment of the surplus, it may be automatica lly forfeite d to the State without further notice
If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the forecl osure sale, othe r than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fee s required by The Condominium Prope rty 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 SECTIO N 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
For information: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff's attor ney: Johnson, Blumberg & Associates, LLC, 30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 3650, Chicago, IL 60602, telephone 312-541-9710. Please refer to file number IL 23 0506.
Sheriff of Ogl e County, Illinois Johnson, Blumberg & Associat es, LLC
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 3650 Chicago, Illinois 60602
Email: ilpleadings@johnsonblumberg.com
Ph. 312-541-9710 / Fax 312-541-9711
JB&A # IL 23 0506
I3242502
April 26, 2024 May 3, 10, 2024
ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES FOR A FIRE STATION CONSTRUCTION PROJECT
morrisfire.com for a formal copy of the Request for
PUBLIC NOTICE OF HEARING
OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
BUDGET AND APPROPRIATON ORDINANCE
PUBLI C NOTICE IS hereb y given that the TENTATIVE BUDGETAPPROPRIATION ORDINANCE OF THE OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING May 1, 2024, and ending April 30, 2025, is now on file and wi ll be conveniently available for PUBLI C INSPECTION at the office of the trustee s, Oregon Fire Protection District, 106 South First Street, Oregon, IL 61061 during office hours from and after the date of publication hereof NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN THAT A PUBLIC HEARING on said BUDGET and APPROPRIATION
ORDINANCE will be held at 6:00 pm on June 12, 2024, at 106 South First Street, Oregon, IL 61061, in said Fire Protection District, and that the final action on said Ordinance will be taken by the Board of Trustees of the Oregon Fire Protection District, at a meeting thereof to be held at 6:15 pm on June 12, 2024, at said loca tion
DATED THIS 25th DAY OF APRIL 2024 OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT Rich Rhoads, Secretary
May 3, 2024
PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES FOR A FIRE STATION CONSTRUCTION PROJECT
The Mount Morris Fire Prote ction District is requesting Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) for Architectural Ser-
Qualifications (RFQ). RFQ's will be available starting Friday, May 3, 2024 Submissions will be due no later than 5:00pm on Friday, May 24, 2024, and can be submitted via email to Chief Hough at rhough@mount morrisfire.com or a hard copy can be dropped off at the Mount Morris Fire Station locat ed at 15 E Center Street, Mount Morris, IL 61054. This project will be funded in part by USDA Community Facilities funding, and this project will be subject to all applicable rules and regulations of this funding.
this funding. The Mount Morris Fire Prote ction District reserves the right to reject any or all submittals and to waive any informality and irregularity in the qualifications/proposals and to select the fi rm(s) that are in the best interest of the Mount Morris Fire Protection District and in compliance w ith the terms set herein. The Mount Morris Fire Protection District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and invites the submission of proposals from minority and women-owned firms.
May 3, 2024 BOARD OF EDUCATION
MAY 20, 2024
PUBLI C HEARING FOR E-LEARNING PLAN
6:30 P.M.
DISTRICT OFFI CE
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Motion to Open Public Hearing for E-Learning Plan
5. Motion to Close Public Hearing for E-Learning Plan
6. Public Comment
7. Adjourn
May 3, 2024
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY - OREGON, ILLINOIS SELECT PORTFOLIO SERVI CING, INC.,
PLAINTIFF vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW AND LEGATEES OF KATIE GREEN; U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION; WILLIAM BUTCHER AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR KATIE GREEN, DECEASED; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, DEFENDANTS
NO. 2023FC57
Address: 508 W. Fulton Street Polo, IL 61064
NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Forecl osure and Sale entered in the above cause on March 22, 2024, I, She riff of Ogle County, Illinois, will on May 31, 2024 at the hour of 10:00 AM at the Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061 , or in a pl ace otherwise designated at the time of sale , County of Ogle, State of Illinois, sell at pub lic auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate:
PARCEL 1
ALL OF LOT SIX (6) AND PART OF LOT FIVE (5) IN BLOCK FOUR (4) IN BURNS AND GOODHUE ADDITION IN THE CITY OF POLO , ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN BOOK A OF PLATS, PAGE 85, AND RE-RECORDED IN BOOK B OF PLATS, PAGE 5 IN THE RECORDER'S OFFICE OF OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, BOUNDED AND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 6; THENCE EASTERLY ON THE NORTH LINE OF WEST FULTON STREET 79.1 FEET; THENCE NORTHERLY 140 FEET TO THE NORTH LINE OF SAID LOT 5; THENCE WESTERLY 78.2 FEET ON THE NORTH LINE OF SAID L OTS 5 AND 6 TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 6 AND THENCE SOUTHERLY ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID LOT 6 TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BUFFALO , THE COUNTY OF OGLE AND THE STATE OF ILLINOIS
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY - OREGON, ILLINOIS
MAY 20, 2024 PUBLI C HEARING FOR E-LEARNING PLAN
Citibank, N.A as Owner Trustee of New Residential Mortgage Loan Trust 2018-1 PLAINTIFF Vs. Timothy J. Danner; et. al. DEFENDANTS
6:30 P.M.
DISTRICT OFFI CE
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
No. 2023FC20
3. Pledge of Allegiance
NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE
The Mount Morris Fire Prote ction District reserves the right to reject any or all submittals and to waive any informality and irregularity in the qualifications/proposals and to select the fi rm(s) that are in the best interest of the Mount Morris Fire Protection District and in compliance w ith the terms set herein. The Mount Morris Fire Protection District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and invites the submission of proposals from minority and women-owned firms.
4. Motion to Open Public Hearing for E-Learning Plan
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Forecl osure and Sale entered in the above cause on 12/15/2023, the Sheriff of Ogle County, Illinois will on June 14, 2024 at the hour of 10:00 AM at Ogle County Public Safety Complex 202 S 1st St. Oregon, IL 61061, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of Ogle and State of Illinois, sell at public au ction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate: THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED BELOW IS LOCATED IN OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
May 3, 2024
5. Motion to Close Public Hearing for E-Learning Plan
6. Public Comment 7. Adjourn
LOTS ONE (1), TWO (2), THREE (3), FOUR (4), AND FIVE (5) IN BLOCK ONE (1) IN THE VILLAGE OF EGAN CITY (NOW CALLED EGAN). PIN 03-12-127-006
The Mount Morris Fire Prote ction District is requesting Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) for Architectural Services for design and construction documents that will be used in the construction of a new fire station facility in Mount Morris. Companies interested in submitting quali fications should contact Fire Chief Robert G. Hough, at 815.734.4322 or via email at rhough@mount morrisfire.com for a formal copy of the Request for Qualifications (RFQ). RFQ's will be available starting Friday, May 3, 2024 Submissions will be due no later than 5:00pm on Friday, May 24, 2024, and can be submitted via email to Chief Hough at rhough@mount morrisfire.com or a hard copy can be dropped off at the Mount Morris Fire Station locat ed at 15 E Center Street, Mount Morris, IL 61054. This project will be funded in part by USDA Community Facilities funding, and this project will be subject to all applicable rules and regulations of this funding.
May 3, 2024
PARCEL 2
ALSO THE SOUTH HALF (1/2) OF VACATED ALLE Y LYING NORTH OF AND ADJACENT TO PARCEL 1; SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BUFFALO, THE COUNTY OF OGLE AND THE STATE OF ILLINOIS
COMMON ADDRESS: 508 W. Fulton Stree t, Polo, IL 61064
P.I.N.: 14-09-376-001
The real estate is improved with a single family residence
THE JUDGM ENT AMOUNT WAS: $90,374.52
Sale terms: 25% down by certified funds; the balance, by certified funds, is due wit hin twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to 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 su bjec t to confirmat ion by the court.
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 property will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representations as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all informat ion.
Improved with Si ngle Family Home COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 3569 West Egan Road Egan AKA Leaf River, IL 61047
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 calc ulated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fracti on thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due within twenty-four (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 r epresentati on as to qua lity or quantity of title and without recourse to Pla intiff 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, pur chasers 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 fur ther recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's attorney.
Upon pay ment in ful l of the amount bid, the purchaser shall rece ive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Dee d 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 Mount Morris Fire Prote ction District reserves the right to reject any or all submittals and to waive any informality and irregularity in the qualifications/proposals and to select the fi rm(s) that are in the best interest of the Mount Morris Fire Protection District and in compliance w ith the terms set herein. The Mount Morris Fire Protection District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and invites the submission of proposals from minority and women-owned firms.
The property will NOT be ope n 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 infor mation
May 3, 2024
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 SECTIO N 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
For informati on: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff's attor ney: Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontag e Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876. Please refer to file number 14-23-00010. I3243103 May 3, 10, 17, 2024
Pursuant to 735 ILCS 5/15-1512, the amounts of any surplus bid will be held by the sheriff until a part y obtains a Court Order for its distribution, or for 60 days following the date of the entry of the order confirming sale, at which time, in the absence of an order directing pay ment of the surplus, it may be automatica lly forfeite d to the Sta te without further notice.
If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the forecl osure sale, othe r than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fee s required by The Condominium Prope rty 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 SECTIO N 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
For information: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff's attor ney: Johnson, Blumberg & Associates, LLC, 30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 3650, Chicago, IL 60602, telephone 312-541-9710. Please refer to file number IL 23 0506. Sheriff of Ogl e County, Illinois
Johnson, Blumberg & Associat es, LLC
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 3650 Chicago, Illinois 60602
Email: ilpleadings@johnsonblumberg.com
Ph. 312-541-9710 / Fax 312-541-9711
JB&A # IL 23 0506
I3242502
April 26, 2024 May 3, 10, 2024
