Library News

Church News

Wednesday WhoDunIt

There is a Wednesday WhoDunIt book discussion group. Our first hour-long discussion will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26 at the library, 705 Main St.

We will meet outside, if weather permits; if not, the discussion will be held, socially-distanced, in the library meeting room. Masks will be required.

For the first meeting, bring a bestloved mystery or a book by your favorite mystery-suspense author to share with others, and bring a friend. No registration is necessary.

Family Story Time

FORRESTON LIBRARY

Library Closure and Appointments

While the library is still closed, anyone needing to send a fax, make copies, or use a computer for taxes, employment, etc. may call the library and schedule an appointment to come in. Also, you may call or message us to schedule a time to come in to browse and check out materi

There are time slots available for Family Story Time. Sign your family up for a private Story Time session with our new Youth Director, Jana Schlukebir.

These sessions will be held weekly.

Each week will include a story and an art project. Here is what to expect: registration is required to reserve your time slot each week. Register through the Sign Up Genius link on our website, bertoletmemoriallibrary.org or call 815- 738-2742.

Masks will be required for everyone three and older who is medically able to wear one, and when you show up for your session, we will do a quick temperature check. We will be outside when possible or in the back room when the weather requires it. Dress kids in clothes that are appropriate for the weather and that can get messy.

There will be two projects for you to choose from, one project per family, a craft project or a painting project. Crafts are perfect for kids 3 and up; painting projects are best for kids 6 and up. A family member 16 years or older is required to assist kids under the age of six with their project.

New Releases

Young Adult Fiction: Dangerous Alliance by Jennifer Cohen

Juvenile Fiction: Fishing Frankie by Shelley Swanson Sateren; Caterpillar Summer by Gillian McDunn

Children’s Fiction: The Unbudgeable Curmudgeon by Matthew Burgess

DVDs: I Still Believe; The Call of the Wild

Recycling

We are still collecting soft plastics for recycling. Bring in clean, dry bread, cereal, zip top, and grocery store bags. We also accept outer package wrap from items such as paper towels and multipack items.

als. Everyone over the age of 2 must wear a mask. Please call the library for more information or if you have any questions.

Curbside Pickup

We will continue to offer curbside pickup. Pick up times will be scheduled when you place a request. Interlibrary loans have resumed so you may also request items from other libraries. Due to quarantine policies, delivery may take longer than usual. Please call, Facebook message, or email us at forrestonpubliclibrary@gmail.com for assistance or if you have any questions.

eBooks-WiFi

As always, you may still enjoy eBooks through Axis 360 and Biblioboard. If you would like more information on creating an account, please let us know and we’ll be happy to help you get set up. You may also access the internet outside the library by connecting to our WiFi. No password is required.

POLO LIBRARY

Library Information

Polo Library is open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, and closed Sunday.

The library building is open for patrons to come in, browse, and check out items. We will continue to have curbside delivery available if you prefer to not enter the building or are unable to wear a mask. To place an order call 815-946-2713, email library@pololibrary.org or go through your PrairieCat-Encore account.

Masks are required for patrons to come into the library. We have disposable masks available to purchase for $1 if you don’t have a mask.

We have two computers available for patron use that are over 6 feet away from each other and are cleaned between uses.

There is a one hour time limit for the use of either computer. If you’d like to make sure there is a computer available, please call 815-946-2713 to reserve a computer. You can also fax, copy and print as needed.

We ask that you continue to return items, as you are done with them, through the book drop that will continue to be open 24-7. After items are returned, they will still appear on your account while they are quarantined, then they will be checked back in and backdated to when they were returned. We are a fine-free library, so you do not need to worry about accruing fines during the quarantine period.

Outdoor Concert Series, Lyle Grobe and the Rhythm Ramblers, Sept. 12, 6 p.m. Polo Library Pavilion

Classic country music will be played. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on. You may bring a picnic to eat while you enjoy the music. There is plenty of room to practice safe social distancing.

Online Story Time w/ Ms. Phyllis:

At 10:30 a.m. every Saturday in August, Ms. Phyllis will be reading a picture book on Polo Library’s Facebook page. Swing by the library to grab a bag of supplies so your kiddo can do a small craft that goes along with each story! One bag has the supplies for the whole month. Monday, Sept. 7

We will be open Saturday, Sept. 5 and Tuesday, Sept. 8.

Coffee with a Cop - 10:30 a.m. Sept. 9 Weather Permitting Library Pavilion Join us for an outdoor, socially distant Coffee with a Cop. If the weather is questionable, call 815-946-2713 before leaving home to check on the status of this program.

A Note on Donations

Due to the need to quarantine items before they can be checked in and put back in their place, we regretfully do not have the space to receive donated items at this time.

Online Resources

Download Axis 360, OMNI/Overdrive, Libby, and Biblioboard for books and audiobooks. Links to these resources are available at pololibrary. org.

Wi-Fi Access

Wi-Fi is available outside of the library building by joining the Polo Public Library Guest Access network, password not needed.

MT. MORRIS LIBRARY

Curbside Pickup

Curbside pickup will be from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. Please note that hours are subject to change based on demand and public health. We will notify changes as they come.

Inter library loans are available. Mt. Morris patrons can place holds through the catalog or by calling or emailing. Update your contact information if needed. Library staff is quarantining all returned items for a period of time.

Recently returned materials may remain on your account longer than usual. When checked in, library staff will backdate materials. No overdue fines will be charged. For new library cards, patrons can call or email the library to renew or receive new library cards at 815-734- 4927 or mmlib@mtmorris-il.org.

Browsing by Appointment

This is what everyone has been waiting for! We are now taking appointments for people to come into the library to choose books. Be aware that there are rules and limits. Contact the library to make an appointment. Please follow the guidelines. You will be required to wear a mask and use hand sanitizer upon entering the building. Children will not be allowed in the library unaccompanied. Consideration will be given to special circumstances, but you must contact the library to discuss

See MT. MORRIS LIBRARY, Page 11

Library Update

Yes, we are open...please call to check on procedures for browsing and pick up of materials.

We do offer curbside pickup, but if you wear a mask you may enter the building to pick up your materials. Hours for curbside will be Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and 10 a.m. -2 p.m. on Friday and Saturdays.

The building is open regular hours. You can put holds on items in our Library through our catalog or by calling the library at 815-732-2724.

All materials should be returned in the outside book drop that is open 24/7. All library materials are quarantined for at least 3 days and then checked in. You will still see these items on your account and still receive notification of overdue until the quarantine period is over.

Please contact us at 815-732-2724 if you have any questions or want to request library materials!

StoryWalk at Oregon Park West!

What is a StoryWalk ® ? It is a book that has been disassembled, laminated and presented page by page to promote reading and exercise on a trail, bike path,or in store windows and as you

BYRON LIBRARY

Come and Browse

The Byron Library is now open for book browsing. Patrons are welcome to browse on both floors. Materials can be checked out at our self-check stations on either floor, by a staff member at the first-floor circulation desk, or delivered to patrons outside with our curbside service. Don’t forget to wear your mask.

Curbside Delivery • MT. MORRIS LIBRARY

Continued from Page 10 that with staff. We ask that patrons make their selections in a timely manner. Loitering is discouraged.

Computer Use By Appointment

We are starting to allow patrons to use the computers by appointment. If you would like to reserve a computer please call the library. Please follow the guidelines.

Only one person per computer. Please do not bring children with you. Masks stroll, you are directed to the next page in the story.

StoryWalk® was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont in 2007, and developed in collaboration with the Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition and the Kellogg Hubbard Library.

Our hope is that this passive program can be used by all ages, groups, families and the Oregon School District. Thanks to the generosity of Etnyre Foundation and collaboration with Oregon Park District, the Oregon Public Library is presenting its first story, A Color of His Own by Leo Lionni, on the path beginning at the main parking lot.

Library Book Clubs

Books on Tap Book Club meets on Thursday, Aug. 27 at 6 p.m. at Cork n Tap to discuss The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead.

The 2WBC meets Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 12:30 p.m. to discuss The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz.

The Afternoon Book Club meets Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 1 p.m. to discuss This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger.

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

Now is the perfect time to start 1,000 Books before Kindergarten! It’s very

Curbside service is here to stay. Place holds online at Byron.lib.il.us or call 815- 234-5107. The library will call or email a confirmation when holds are ready to be picked up. Call upon arrival, items will be brought out to you. A receipt with your due dates will be included.

Freshly Brewed Book Club

Thursday, Aug. 27, via Zoom 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. must be worn in the library. You will be asked to use hand sanitizer when you enter the building before getting on the computer. You will be asked to refrain from browsing. You are here for the computer use only. You are allowed one hour unless approved by the director for job training, job search, or class work.

Honor JoLynn Ward

At the end of the school year, a number of long-time employees retired. At the end of a normal year, there would have been parties and recognition ceremonies, but 2020 is not a normal year. simple to start. Register by coming in, calling or by emailing child’s name, birth date, guardian’s name, library card number and a phone number to the library email. Then just start recording at home the titles of the books you read to your pre-kindergarten child. We can arrange a pick-up time for you to receive your folder. Children can listen to or read stories on e-book readers, tablet computers, or other devices as well as the old fashioned way. You can even repeat books. Computer games do not count.

The Organized Family -

Aug. 25, 5:30 p.m.

Tips for families with busy active school aged kids. We’ll discuss making organizing a family commitment and not just something Mom does! You will learn how to handle the daily paperwork, extra-curricular paperwork and artwork. Suggestions on setting up routines and schedules, plus how the kids can help with chores. Registration is required 815-732-2724.

New Releases

Of Mutts And Men by Spencer Quinn (Mystery)

A Sprinkling Of Murder by Daryl Wood Gerber (Mystery)

Love & Other Crimes by Sara Paretsky

Join Kelly as she discusses “The Authenticity Project” by Clare Pooley. The first 10 participants in the Zoom discussion will receive a free coffee candle as a thank you. Call the library at 815-234-5107 to reserve a copy of The Authenticity Project today and register for the Freshly Brewed Book Club at tinyurl.com/y5ktyov2. Zoom meeting information will be emailed to registrants. JoLynn Ward has been an instructional aide with the Oregon School district for a long time.

She was in Mt. Morris at the elementary school until the fire, and went with her students to Oregon. In the time I have known her, she has been an instructional aide for the English Language Learners.

For the library, she has been a trustee for a long time, helped when the new addition was being built, and is currently our board secretary. Mrs. Ward, as the children know her, has spent her time recently making masks for people in the (Mystery)

The Babysitter by Nancy Bush (Paperback Mystery)

Jane Darrowfield, Professional Busybody (Paperback Mystery)

Still Knife Painting by Cheryl Hollon (Paperback Mystery)

Witch Hunt by Cate Conte (Paperback Mystery)

The Color Of Air by Gail Tsukiyama (Fiction)

Me And White Supremacy by Layla F. Saad (Non-Fiction 305.809 SAA)

Blacktop Wasteland by S. A. Cosby (Fiction)

Wonderland by Zoje Stage (Fiction)

Cajun Justice by James Patterson (Fiction)

You Can’t Catch Me by Catherine McKenzie (Fiction)

Utopia Avenue by David Mitchell (Fiction)

The Order by Daniel Silva (Fiction)

What You Wish For by Katherine Center (Fiction)

A Walk Along The Beach by Debbie Macomber (Fiction)

The Lost And Found Bookshop by Susan Wiggs (Large Print Fiction)

The Daughters Of Erietown by Connie Schultz (Large Print Fiction)

Peace Talks by Jim Butcher (Science

Fiction)

Parking Lot WiFi

The library WiFi extends outside of the building and is available 24-7.

Local History

The library has several resources to get started with any history search. Check out the library’s local history page at byron.lib.il.us/services/local-history. Available 24-7.

community, including library staff.

We want to honor her in her retirement, and for her good works. A fund has been established in her name. We will be purchasing library materials in her honor.

If you would like to join us in thanking her for her service to the children of the district and her work in the community, you may send a donation with the notation that it is in her honor.

Contact the Mt. Morris Public Library at 105 S. McKendrie Ave. Mt. Morris IL 61054; 815-734-4927 www.mtmorris-il. org for more information.

LOCAL NEWS Forreston’s tornado siren is operational once again

Siren wasn’t activated on Aug. 10 because it wasn’t a tornado

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

The Forreston Village Board got its tornado siren back up and running for the first time in over a decade at its Aug. 3 meeting.

The tornado siren was not activated during the storm on Aug. 10 due to the National Weather Service declaring it a storm warning and not a tornado.

“It’s been down maybe 15 or more years,” Metzger said. “It’s up and running and tied in with the weather service. We’ll still ring it at noon barring complaints Monday through Saturday and when there’s tornadoes. It’s a five mile radius in each direction.”

On Aug. 3, the board also approved an ordinance for its lead service lines and water meter replacements. The approved amount was $4.2 million. $3.8 million of that is for lead service lines, which is 100 percent forgivable.

The amount slated for water meter replacements is $450,000. The Village’s intention is not to use that entire amount in hopes for lower bids for the project.

“We want to make sure we have the money to do it,” Metzger said. “50 percent of that loan is forgivable. That’s a project that won’t happen until next year. We already put a $1.50 cost on our water bills to pay for that. There shouldn’t be any additional increase.”

Pavilion

Forrestville Valley Elementary School principal Jonathan Schneiderman recently contacted the village about using the outdoor pavilion at Memorial Park for outdoor classes this fall during the COVID-19 pandemic.

After clearing it with lawyers and insurance, the village approved the request. The pavilion is still available to be rented by the public.

HEALTH NEWS Mosquito pool in Polo tests positive for West Nile Virus

The Ogle County Health Department has confirmed a second positive mosquito pool for West Nile Virus in Ogle County.

A pool of mosquitoes in Polo tested positive on Aug. 18. A previous pool in Rochelle tested positive on July 21.

“The OCHD will continue surveillance and testing mosquito pools from across Ogle County, as well as conducting mosquito abatement with methods such as larviciding to help control mosquito populations,” a Tuesday press release said.

Monitoring for West Nile virus in Illinois includes lab tests for mosquito batches, dead crows, blue jays, robins and other perching birds as well as testing humans with West Nile virus-like symptoms.

West Nile is transmitted through the bite of Culex mosquitoes, which pick up the virus from feeding on infected birds.

Common symptoms include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches. Symptoms may last from a few days to a few weeks. Four out of five people infected with West Nile will not show any symptoms.

Precautions include the “three R’s”: Reduce, Repel and Report.

Reduce by making sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens with tears or openings. Try to keep doors and windows shut. Eliminate or refresh each all sources of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.

Repel by wearing shoes, socks, long pants and sleeves when outside. Apply insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR-3535 according to label instructions.

Report by calling about locations where you see water sitting stagnant for more than a week such as roadside ditches, flooded yards and similar locations. The health department or city government may be able to apply larvicide to the water to kill mosquito eggs.

Are you struggling to pay your rent due to COVID-19?

Applications will be accepted August 10th through August 21st To be eligible:

Your household income before March 1, 2020 was within the allowable limits. You, or an adult member of your household, suffered a loss of income due to COVID-19.

You missed a rent payment on or after March 1, 2020, and your landlord is willing to participate.

Don’t wait, apply today at: era.ihda.org Any questions, call: (Local) 312.883.2720 (Toll Free) 888.252.1119

SM-ST1807676

$5,000 Programa de Asistencia Emergencia de renta. (ERA)

¿Está luchando con su habilidad de hacer sus pagos de renta causado por COVID-19?

Aplicaciones serán aceptado desde 10 de agosto hasta el 21 de agosto.

Ser eligible:

Si su ingreso familiar antes de Si Ud. o un miembro adulto de Si Ud. no pudo pagar su pago de renta 1 de marzo 2020 fue dentro de su hogar sufrió una pérdida de desde el 1 de marzo 2020 y el dueño seria los limites admisibles. ingreso causado por COVID-19. dispuesto a participaren el programa.

No espere, aplique hoy día: era.ihda.org

Si tuviera preguntas, favor de llamar: (Local) 312.883.2720 (llamada gratuita) 888.252.1119

LEAF RIVER NEWS Leaf River Lions build new memorial gazebo

The Leaf River Lions Club has constructed a memorial gazebo at 705 S. Main Street.

A memorial fund collected over the years was used along with donations from several individuals, businesses and banks.

The memorial gazebo is not just a Lions memorial, it’s also to all individuals that have unselfishly given time and talents in support of the community. The Leaf River Horseshoe Riding Club, upon being dissolved, donated a bench that is placed at the Gazebo, but will be finally located once all work is complete.

An ADA ramp has to be installed yet along with backfilling around the Gazebo but all should happen in the near future. The Bertolet Memorial Library is already using the Gazebo for their Story Telling time to young children.

No names will be listed at the Gazebo for fear of leaving someone