New City Hall

To the Electors of the State of Illinois: The Illinois Constitution establishes a structure for government and laws. There are three ways to initiate change to the Illinois Constitution: (1) a constitutional convention may propose changes to any part; (2) the General Assembly may propose changes to any part; or (3) a petition initiative may propose amendments limited to structural and procedural subjects contained in the Legislative Article. The people of Illinois must approve any changes to the Constitution before they become effective. The purpose of this document is to inform you of proposed changes to the Illinois Constitution and provide you with a brief explanation and a summary of the arguments in favor of and in opposition to the proposed amendment. Proposed changes in the existing constitutional amendment are indicated by underscoring all new matter and by crossing with a line all matter which is to be deleted. PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO SECTION 3 OF ARTICLE IX OF THE ILLINOIS CONSTITUTION ARTICLE IX – REVENUE SECTION 3. LIMITATIONS ON INCOME TAXATION (a) The General Assembly shall provide by law for the rate or rates of any tax on or measured by income imposed by the State. A tax on or measured by income shall be at a non-graduated rate. At any one time there may be no more than one such tax imposed by the State for State purposes on individuals and one such tax so imposed on corporations. In any such tax imposed upon corporations the highest rate shall not exceed the highest rate imposed on individuals by more than a ratio of 8 to 5. (b) Laws imposing taxes on or measured by income may adopt by reference provisions of the laws and regulations of the United States, as they then exist or thereafter may be changed, for the purpose of arriving at the amount of income upon which the tax is imposed. EXPLANATION The proposed amendment grants the State authority to impose higher income tax rates on higher income levels, which is how the federal government and a majority of other states do it. The amendment would remove the portion of the Revenue Article of the Illinois Constitution that is sometimes referred to as the "flat tax," that requires all taxes on income to be at the same rate. The amendment does not itself change tax rates. It gives the State the ability to impose higher tax rates on those with higher income levels and lower tax rates on those with middle or lower income levels. You are asked to decide whether the proposed amendment should become a part of the Illinois Constitution. ARGUMENTS IN FAVOR OF THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT Illinois' current tax system unfairly benefits millionaires and billionaires and this amendment will set things right for middle-class and working people. Currently, it is unfair that billionaires pay the same tax rate as regular people. Voting "yes" on the amendment means that the State will enact a new tax structure where only those making above $250,000 a year will see their taxes go up. This amendment is simply upgrading Illinois' old tax system to a graduated system which is how the federal government and the majority of other states do it. This Amendment Would Make Illinois' Tax System Fair. Approval of this amendment would enact a fair system that allows the state to tax wealthy people at higher rates and lower income people at lower rates, replacing Illinois' current unfair tax system, in which wealthy people pay the exact same tax rate as lower and middle income people. Illinois' current tax system unfairly benefits millionaires and billionaires, and approval of this amendment will set things right for the middle class and working people. This amendment will help small business owners by creating a stable economic environment for their businesses to thrive. While others try to mislead you, under the current tax system in Illinois, policymakers already have the authority to set any tax rate and to change tax rates at their will. The current system forces policymakers to charge the same tax rate to everyone, regardless of how much money they make. If this amendment passes, the State will have the ability to tax higher income earners at a different rate. In fact, upon passage of this Amendment, a new tax structure will go into effect where 97% of taxpayers will pay the same or less, while only those making more than $250,000 a year will see a tax increase. This amendment does not tax retirement income. The Federal Government and Most States Use the Graduated Tax System Proposed in this Amendment, Not the Unfair System Currently Used in Illinois. Illinois is among a minority of states that do not utilize graduated tax rates because the Illinois Constitution requires a "flat tax" that penalizes middle-class and working people and benefits higher income individuals. A majority of states and the federal government already use the kind of graduated income tax system proposed in this amendment to ensure that wealthy people pay their fair share of taxes. Nearby states including Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin are among the majority of states that have graduated tax systems. Illinois' Current Income Tax System Relies on Taxes from Middle and Lower Income Earners, While a Graduated System Would Lower that Burden and Fund Critical Programs such as Education and Human Services. While some states have fair tax rates in which the highest income earners pay the highest tax rate, Illinois' "flat tax" rate continues to rely unfairly on taxes from middle and lower income earners. Under Illinois' "flat tax" structure, a nurse making $50,000 per year pays the same tax rate as an executive making $4 million per year. A graduated tax rate would have the executive pay more. Because of the way our current tax system is set up, the bottom fifth of Illinois taxpayers (those making below $21,800) contribute 14.4% of their income to state and local taxes, compared to 7.4% for the top 1 percent of Illinois taxpayers. If this Amendment passes, the State has already enacted a new graduated tax structure where 97% of taxpayers will pay the same or less. Under the new tax structure, only the top 3% of Illinois income earners would pay more in income taxes. Everyone who makes $250,000 or less a year would pay the same or less. Over 95% of small businesses earn $250,000 or less a year in profits, and their owners will not see a tax increase under the new tax structure. This change will generate additional revenue each year that can help address Illinois' budget deficit and fund critical programs, including the State's education system, public safety, and social services like mental health and substance abuse treatment and domestic violence shelters. After the COVID-19 Pandemic, We Need to Do All We Can to Help the Economy and Middle-Class and Working People. Working people and essential workers like nurses, first responders, and grocery store clerks should not pay the same tax rate as the wealthy. Nurses making $50,000 a year should not pay the same tax rate as an executive making $4,000,000 a year. Having wealthy people pay more would reduce the burden on working families. This is money that middle and lower income people need for housing, groceries, medicine, and essentials. When the wealthiest people pay more, middle and lower income earners can pay less while the State funds critical services that our essential workers rely on. ARGUMENTS AGAINST THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT 1) The Amendment gives the Legislature power to increase taxes on any group of taxpayers with no limits and no accountability and without any requirement to use the additional revenue to fund essential needs such as healthcare, education, or public safety. 2) Taxes and spending are out of control. The Legislature should not be allowed to keep raising taxes until they get their spending under control. 3) In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, now is the worst possible time for a massive tax increase. The Amendment gives the Legislature power to increase taxes on any group of taxpayers with no limits and no accountability and without any requirement to use the additional revenue to fund essential needs such as healthcare, education, or public safety. The proposed amendment would give the Legislature unlimited new authority to increase income tax rates on any group of taxpayers at will, including low-income and middle-income families and small business owners. There would be no limit on the number of tax brackets that could be created and no limit on how high tax rates could be increased on individual taxpayers. In addition, this proposed change will pave the way for a tax on retirement income. Nothing in the amendment requires the Legislature to do anything to control spending. Nor does it require funds to be spent on essential needs such as healthcare, education, or public safety. It would simply give the Legislature a blank check to spend billions of dollars however they want, with no accountability. Taxes and spending are out of control. The Legislature should not be allowed to keep raising taxes until they get their spending under control. Illinois already has some of the highest property taxes and sales taxes in the nation. And the Legislature has increased Illinois income tax rates twice in the past decade to try to deal with the out-ofcontrol spending in Springfield. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, our state had a huge and growing multi-billion-dollar budget deficit, and the unfunded pension liability skyrocketed to over $137 billion. That's because the Legislature has continued to increase state spending instead of eliminating government waste, corruption, and abuse. Because they refuse to control spending or pass major reforms, the Legislature will just continue to raise taxes on everyone in Illinois, and middle-class families will be their next target. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, now is the worst possible time for a massive tax increase. The COVID-19 pandemic caused layoffs, unemployment, bankruptcies, and closures. As small businesses and local employers struggle to rebuild, this is the worst possible time to impose huge new tax increases. Even before the COVID-19 crisis, many residents and businesses were leaving the state because of the high tax burden. If the Amendment passes, it would be the last straw for thousands of small businesses, causing more jobs to leave the state, and making Illinois lose out on investments to rebuild our economy. This would mean fewer jobs and less opportunity for Illinois families.

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

Terry McGoldrick was asked at a recent Byron City Council meeting if Exelon’s plan to close the Byron Nuclear Plant in September 2021 was serious.

The president of IBEW Local 15 immediately knew how to answer.

“It is extremely serious,” McGoldrick said. “And it will close if we don’t get something done. I want everyone to know people are working and engaged to get this resolved. We’re looking at a long-term settlement and agreement.”

McGoldrick joined State Rep. Tom Demmer Tuesday night for a presentation to the Ogle County Board on what is being done to prevent the closure of the plant.

Demmer said he’s been working with local, state and union groups on methods to keep both Byron and the Dresden Nuclear Plant (Morris) open.

“There’s a discussion in the governor’s office and I’m having conversations about what we can do as a house,” Demmer said. “And there’s work at a local level of how to save it and how big a hole it would leave. It’s not a quick decision to save the plants. I think there have been positive developments and conversations. We have good local engagement, but we’re not quite done.”

Exelon said in its closure plan press release that circumstances could change to keep the plants open. Demmer has put together state representatives from both sides of the aisle that hope to put together a bipartisan deal to do just that.

“Today, I also talked with a group of 13 organized labor groups that formed a climate labor group,” Demmer said. “There’s a number of recommendations they have, one is to keep all the nuclear plants open for power and economic impacts.”

The Byron Station Response Committee, consisting of local governing bodies and leaders, was established last month in response to the closure plan and SaveByron.com was established and has information on the possible economic impact of a closure.

Demmer has been inviting colleagues and interested parties to tour the plants in hopes it will convince them to help. He was asked by one county board member at the meeting how much money it would take to get Exelon to keep the plant open.

“It’s a lot more complicated than a dollar amount,” Demmer said. “Exelon wants to sell that power for as much as it can. It wants a more predictable way to sell power at auction. It’s more than a subsidy. How can we recognize the unique role nuclear power plays at those auctions?”

Demmer said not every type of power should be considered the same and nuclear power should be recognized for its reliability, especially during extreme temperatures. His priority to find a solution to keep the plant open long-term. That will involve Exelon belong able to sell its power at a competitive rate, which Demmer says it can’t now.

There are different strategies in play in Springfield, Demmer said. One involved credits for power created with zero emissions. Another involves surcharges for those that release carbon into the atmosphere, which Byron doesn’t.

“Each group is bringing a different perspective to address it,” Demmer said. “I think it’s probably a combination of strategies. We will have updates in the future and will let you know how to help.”

At the end of the meeting, the board passed a resolution in support of keeping Exelon and the Byron plant open in the community that will be forwarded to state senators, representatives and the governor.

Better Place Forests

The county board also approved a special use permit for Better Place Forests at the meeting.

The business plans to purchase just over 50 acres of forest along the eastern banks of the Rock River for a conservation memorial forest where customers can purchase a tree dedication for the exclusive right to rest cremains there.

The county zoning board of appeals unanimously recommended the permit at its most recent meeting.

FORM OF BALLOT

Proposed Amendment to the 1970 Illinois Constitution The proposed amendment grants the State authority to impose higher income tax rates on higher income levels, which is how the federal government and a majority of other states do it. The amendment would remove the portion of the Revenue Article of the Illinois Constitution that is sometimes referred to as the "flat tax," that requires all taxes on income to be at the same rate. The amendment does not itself change tax rates. It gives the State the ability to impose higher tax rates on those with higher income levels and lower income tax rates on those with middle or lower income levels. You are asked to decide whether the proposed amendment should become a part of the Illinois Constitution.

Due to COVID-19, all 2020 General Election voters are encouraged to cast a ballot prior to Election Day, either by mail or during early voting. Voting by mail is an easy option for voters and you can request a vote by mail ballot through email, mail, or in person. An application is available from your local election authority or at: https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/VotingByMail.aspx. To register to vote or check your registration status, visit: https://ova.elections.il.gov.

CAPITOL BUILDING SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE

I, Jesse White, Secretary of the State of Illinois, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the Proposed Amendment, the Explanation of the Proposed Amendment, Arguments in Favor of the Amendment and Arguments Against the Amendment and a true copy of the Form of Ballot for this call as the regularly scheduled general election on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, as set forth in compliance with the Illinois Constitutional Amendment Act.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and affix the Great Seal of the State of Illinois, Done in the City of Springfield, this first day of June, 2020.

This voter information material is available in written format in English, Chinese, Hindi, Polish, Spanish, and Braille. It is also available in audio format in English. For more information, visit www.cyberdriveillinois.com or write the Secretary of State’s office at 111 East Monroe Street, Springfield, IL 62756.

Marvin and Reet Birkholz

Couple to celebrate 70 years of marriage Nov. 4

Marvin and Reet Birkholz will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on Nov. 4.

They have three children Jerry, Darrell, and Roger.

Their family would like to honor them with a card shower due to COVID-19 and health reasons.

Please help celebrate by sending a card to: 2080 W. Navaho Drive, Apt. 217, Freeport, IL 61032.

SPECIAL EVENTS Farmers markets available near Polo area this fall

Are you still looking for something to do as the fall weather rolls in? Well, look no further than the Polo area.

Farmer’s markets in and around Polo that will sell through October are: • Polo Farmer’s Market, 3 to 6 p.m. Thursdays at the City Lot south of Shell Station on Division Ave. • Forreston Farmer’s Market, 8 a.m. to noon Fridays, at the Subway parking lot at Routes 26 and 72. • The Dogwood Inn Flea-Farmer’s Market, at the intersection of Illinois 64 and Illinois 26, 3 to 6 p.m. Fridays inside the banquet area. The market also will be held on Fridays in November.

A Winter Flea/Farmer Market at Dogwood Inn will also be held on Saturdays beginning Nov. 7, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Anyone interested in becoming a vendor, can contact Bernice Ratledge 815-946-2499.

MARRIAGE LICENSES

Ogle County clerk Laura Cook has issued the following licenses.

Oct. 9

Ryan Callan and Cassandra Kay Wilson, both of Morrison.

Forrest Allan Hlad and Maegan Christine Goodwin, both of Rock Falls.

George Willis Andrews IV and Danielle Marie Simpson, both of Davis Junction.

Oct. 13

Isaac Paisley Laws Parisi and Rebecca Anne Wiegand, both of Polo.

Jeremy Scott Harms and Tiffany Marie Vodicka, both of Compton.

H O M E LOTS & LOTS of Furniture

You Want You Take!

Why Wait 3-4 Months

0% Interest with Approved Credit

OREGON Tapestry returns home to Stronghold Castle

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

A piece of Stronghold Camp and Retreat Center history has returned home after nearly a 60-year absence.

Sarah Strong-Norton, a granddaughter of Walter Strong who built the castle as a family home, returned a tapestry last week that originally was displayed the home in the early 1960s.

Strong-Norton now lives in Seattle and recently downsized her home and thought it’d be nice to return it. Stronghold Executive Director Danny Pierce has built relationships with the Strong family, who planned to hold a family reunion on the grounds this summer but had to delay it due to COVID-19.

Pierce is unsure of what will be done with the tapestry, but he’s happy to have it.

“It’s very inspirational,” Pierce said. “I’ve been here four years. No doubt the past of Stronghold is its future. We value the same things that they did. It’s a reconnection and strengthening of the fabric of Stronghold.”

Michael Krabbenhoeft/Shaw Media

Sarah Strong-Norton (left) and her husband Nile Norton hold up a tapestry that the pair brought from Seattle with them to return to the Stronghold Castle. The Norton’s are moving and can no longer display the piece and wanted to return it to the castle.

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The Byron Forest Preserve District has recently completed the Mike McNett Memorial Picnic Shelter at their Bald Hill Prairie Preserve located at 5502 N. Silver Creek Road in Mt. Morris.

The shelter was made possible by the funds provided by the Mike McNett Memorial Fund and the McNett family. Pictured are Todd Tucker, Executive Director, Byron Forest Preserve District, Molly McNett, Judy McNett and Dan Libman.

Mike McNett grew up just south of the Bald Hill Prairie Preserve and spent a great deal of his youth at the scenic site. He passed away in July 2018 at the age 80.

He graduated from Mt. Morris High School in 1955 and spent his career as a teacher, counselor and coach in Oregon schools retiring in 1992.

The new McNett Shelter is located a short distance west of the Bald Hill Prairie Preserve parking area and offers spectacular views of the preserve. The site is open for drop-in use year round from dawn until dusk.

For more information regarding the 380-acre Bald Hill Prairie Preserve or any of the other eight Byron Forest Preserve District preserves, call 815 234-8535 extension 200.

AT LEFT: The Byron Forest Preserve District announced last week that it has recently completed the Mike McNett Memorial Picnic Shelter at their Bald Hill Prairie Preserve located at 5502 N. Silver Creek Road in Mt. Morris. Pictured here are Todd Tucker, executive director, Byron Forest Preserve District; Molly McNett; Judy McNett; and Dan Libman. ABOVE: McNett, who passed away on July 5, 2018, is pictured here with his dog.

CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR Fall Cleanup and Snow Removal TODAY!

“When Perfection Matters” | Call Steve Hershberger, Owner 815-973-6215

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

Cherie Slack has run a barbershop in three Ogle County towns during the past 35 years.

This month, she’ll be retiring and will hand over the keys to a new owner. Short Cut Barbershop came to Oregon in 2011. Before that, it was in Mt. Morris for 23 years and in Leaf River for three.

“It’s already bittersweet,” Slack said. “I’ve been cutting some of these people for over 30 years. You become friends. Everyone is already teary-eyed.”

Slack’s retirement comes on her own terms. She’ll still have a chair in the shop to help out the new owner, Erin Dietrich, when she needs it. She plans to spend her other time doing some hiking and traveling.

COVID-19 did play a part in Slack’s decision. She was extremely busy after being closed for 11 weeks during the shutdown. Now, it’s slow, due to some people still not wanting to come out.

“We’re down 25 percent,” Slack said. “Most shops are. A lot of cli-

Alex T. Paschal/Shaw Media

Cherie Slack, left, and Erin Dietrich display the new sign for the downtown Oregon shop.

ents are still not coming out, especially the elderly. In Erin’s situation, maybe it’s good. She’s starting out slow and she can take her time and get to know people.”

Slack has been fond of many clients over her years in business. Her favorite was Kenny Miller, who would always come into the shop for coffee. She returned the favor by bringing him coffee at his home up until he passed away.

The barbershop business has changed its fair share over the years, Slack said.

“Barbershops are a thing of the past, but they’re making a resurgence,” Slack said. “People are into the straight razor shaving. I quit it years ago, but it’s hot again.”

Dietrich plans to rename the business the Patriot Barber Shop when she takes the keys. She’ll be having a grand opening on Nov. 3.

The Patriot Barber Shop name is inspired by Dietrich’s military service in the Army. She served active duty from 1999-2004 and was in Kosovo and Afghanistan. She plans to have photos on the wall of those who have served so their stories can be told.

“I was kind of inspired through other veterans,” Dietrich said. “I wanted a safe space for people to talk about service. What better time for a patriotic theme?”

Dietrich and Slack have been friends since Dietrich was a child. Dietrich decided to attend barber college recently after Slack mentioned the idea of taking over while one of Dietrich’s sons was getting his haircut.

Opening a business amid the pandemic does concern Dietrich, but she’s optimistic.

“I feel like it’s the right thing to do,” Dietrich said. “It’s probably not the best time, but I have to do it. I have concerns, but it won’t stop me. I can’t afford to. I have to bet on myself.”

Lady Hawks finish in fifth place at BNC meet in Kingston

BY BRIAN WEIDMAN bweidman@saukvalley.com

Between chasing Indians and dodging deer, it was an interesting, but productive day for the Dixon and Rock Falls girls cross country teams at the Big Northern Conference championship held Oct. 17 at Walcamp Outdoor Ministries in Kingston.

The Duchesses had five of the top 12 finishers to amass 44 points and take second place, while the Rockets were next with 103 points. They were all looking up at Winnebago, the defending Class 1A state champs who had seven of the first nine runners, including the first four, on its way to a mere 17 points.

The event was split into three races, due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Taylor Hills finished 15th for Dixon with a time of 19:23.34, and had a close encounter with nature just before the homestretch. A deer missed her by about a foot.

“I saw two deer out of the woods to my right, and I thought they were done because they passed me,” Hills said. “Right as I was starting to speed up for my finish, there was another one that came out of nowhere. I had to stop in my tracks for a second because I didn’t know if it was coming in front of me or behind me. It was a little scary.”

Rock Falls’ Bryahna Ganther was another runner who had an unexpected obstacle in her way. She was 16th in 19:53.98.

“There was a deer that ran out in front of me that scared the crap out of me,” Ganther said. “I feel like that helped me a little bit because it got my mind off of everything. At the beginning, I was back a little bit, but I knew that in the middle, I was going to kick again, like I usually do.”

Oregon was fifth among nine teams with 146 points. Leading the way for the Hawks was Leah Watters, 21st in 20:23.52.

The other counting scores for the Hawks came from Faith Marquardt (23rd, 20:25.24), Katlyn Ramirez (27th, 20:44.75), Jennica Ciesiel (37th, 22:19.43) and Ellen Hodson (38th, 22:20.37).

Rounding out the Oregon lineup were Ava Wight (42nd, 22:44.93) and Katelyn Bowers (49th, 23:13.65).

Alex T. Paschal/Shaw Media

A deer leaps on the course behind Dixon’s Paige Stees and other runners during the girl’s Big Northern Cross Country Meet in Kingston.

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

Tuesday’s Ogle County Board Meeting didn’t exactly “Zoom” along for one county board member.

The meeting was held via a Zoom conference call, but ran into a number of technical difficulties for board members and the public who were not attending the meeting in person.

Board member Lyle Hopkins of Polo said the meeting took place in the county chambers as a usual one would, but that the number of people who could attend was limited. Recent meetings have been conducted over the phone.

Hopkins was one of the board members who opted to participate from home and became frustrated midway through the meeting.

“If we’re going to have meetings like this, we need to have a better sound system,” Hopkins said. “What kind of a meeting is this where people can’t hear? Goodnight.”

Those listening via phone were largely unable to hear Chairman John Finfrock’s comments throughout the night, as well as others who were using the microphone system in person.

“I didn’t hear more than 20 percent of it,” Hopkins said when contacted after the meeting. “That was the lousiest meeting I’ve ever heard and I’ve done Zoom meetings before. What the hell kind of government do we have?”

AGRICULTURE Milder weather has helped 2020 harvest so far

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

One thing Polo farmer Brian Duncan doesn’t miss about last year’s harvest? Mud.

The fear of getting stuck in it. Getting it in the machine. Tracking it onto roads.

This fall, Duncan and other Ogle County farmers have seen dryer and milder weather for the harvest season compared to last year, which was wetter and drawn-out.

“We’re wrapping up soybean harvest and we’ve got a good start on corn,” Duncan said. “It’s been tremendous weather, nice and dry. Yields have been variable. Winds have impacted yields in the Polo area. If you were hit hard by the wind, your yield is down. I would say it’s been an average crop for us.”

Ogle County Farm Bureau Manager said beans are “mostly wrapped up” in the county and that corn is 40-50 percent picked. He says both crops have dried down well.

On top of issues from the Aug. 10 severe wind storm, a late summer dry spell and early spring water problems have made for “variable” and “below-average” yields, Kern said.

“One guy said he did 240-280 bushels per acre,” Kern said. “It depends on soil and where rain hit.”

The picking of downed corn has been slow, but Kern said for some it hasn’t been as bad as it seemed. Duncan was impacted by those winds. He’s had to combine his corn in different directions to pick it up.

Both men agree that early November could be when harvest gets wrapped up. Several chances of rain in the forecast coming up makes Kern nervous, but not Duncan.

“I’d like to be done by the second week in November,” Duncan said. “There’s a long way to go. We’re so dry, I wouldn’t complain about Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media ABOVE: A farmer picks corn in a field southeast of Polo. BELOW: Grain wagons wait to transport the corn in a field east of Polo.

rain. It could give us a chance to fix some things we’ve been putting off. It wouldn’t hurt. We started on Oct. 1 and have been plugging away.”

Kern said he’s seen limited fall tillage in county fields so far that would help farmers get a jump on next year. He thinks that will come, after farmers get more crops into their bins.

One factor that has farmers feeling positive are higher commodity prices heading into harvest.

We’ll see how it holds up. It’s unusual for prices to rally going into harvest.” Even though he’s glad to not be tracking mud onto roads this fall, Duncan still advised county residents to keep their eyes open for harvesters with work still to be done. “Everybody be patient with machinery on roads and be safe,” Duncan said. “Spring is a sprint. Fall is a marathon.”

Library Hours

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

The library building will be 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. You can place an order by calling 815-946-2713, emailing library@ pololibrary.org, or 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 or if you forgot yours at home.

Public Computer Use

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

OREGON LIBRARY

Open for Browsing

Come in to pick out your own books. We ask that you sanitize when you come in and remember to wear your mask. To best provide a safe environment we are limiting the number of patrons in the library at a time. Curbside pick up will continue indefinitely. 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. Please call for any questions or material requests.

Zoom story time

Once a month we will have a Zoom Story Time at 10 a.m. Thursdays. Register at least a week before in order to receive your craft kit and the Zoom link. The dates are: Nov. 19 and Dec. 17.

Monster Mash, 3:30 p.m. Oct. 29 The Universal monster movies of the 1930’s and 40’s are some of the most influential and beautiful moves ever made. We’ll see how children celebrated Halloween a century ago. Registration required for this ZOOM event, call 815732-2724.

Returned Books

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.

This means that you may receive courtesy notifications (phone calls, texts or emails) close to the due date of your item(s), or even a first overdue notice before your item(s) are checked back into our system even if you have already returned your items.

We are a fine-free library, so you do not need to worry about accruing fines during the quarantine period. However, materials that are not returned will result in a replacement bill. This bill is generated after materials are 21 days overdue. As long as the materials are returned with no damage you will not be charged the replacement fee. If you Visit the “Halloween patch” on the Library lawn and pick out a unique “pumpkin” filled with treats. Social distancing and masks are required and there is a limited supply. In case of inclement weather the “pumpkins” will be distributed from the elevator entrance of the Library. Call the Library at 815-732-2724 for more information.

Election Day

All non-registered voters between ages of 3-17 may have a voice at our Unofficial voting box. Stop by the Library between October 19-28 and pick up an unofficial ballot for the presidential election. Bring back the completed ballot on Oct. 30, 31 or Nov. 2 and place it in our unofficial ballot box located in the elevator lobby during library hours. We will tally the votes on Nov. 3 and post the results on the 4th. The Library will be closed on Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Book Clubs

The Afternoon Book Club meets Wednesday, Nov. 18 at 12:30 p.m. to discuss Ginny Moon by Benjamin Ludwig.

The 2WBC meets Wednesday, Nov. 11 at 1 p.m. to discuss The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows.

Books on Tap Book Club meets on have any questions or concerns, please call 815-946-2713.

Free Library Card

Any person of student age (4-18 years old) living in the Polo School District qualifies for a free Polo Library card, whether you attend Polo Schools, private school, or are homeschooled. Family cards, which parents can use too, are only $20 a year if you live outside of Buffalo Township and have a student living in your household. As always, if you live in Buffalo Township, you are able to get a Polo Library card for free. Stop by the library today to sign up for a card or, if you’ve lost your card, pick up a new card. Call 815-946-2713 or email library@pololibrary.org with questions.

Virtual Storytime - Saturdays 10:30 a.m. - Facebook.com/pololibrary

Every Saturday morning head over to Polo Library’s Facebook page to watch Ms. Melanie read a children’s story. They air each Saturday at 10:30am, but you can watch them any time! Stop by

the Library to pick up a bag with a fun Thursday, Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. at Cork n Tap to discuss The Guest List by Lucy Foley.

National Novel Writing Month

6:30 p.m. Nov. 12

November kicks off National Novel Writing Month. Every November, aspiring authors of all ages devote themselves to one audacious goal - to write a novel by Nov. 31. We will talk about the origins of Nanowrimo,how to stay motivated, how to cross the 50,000 word threshold and what to do afterwards. There will also be a question and answer period, as well as some writing prompts and time to work on projects. Come enjoy some camaraderie with fellow writers on Zoom. For more info contact the Library at 815-732-2724.

Yoga with Jennifer

Saturday mornings at 9:30 a.m.- only 5 spots available. Registration required 815-732-2724

Book Sale

The Grab Bag Book Sale continues. This is an ongoing sale and the bags are in the library labeled by genre. You can purchase a bag for $5. There are approximately 8-10 books in each bag. Call the Library at 815-732-2724 if you have any craft to go along with the book that was read. If you have a book you’d like to hear read for Saturday Storytime, email Ms. Melanie at melaniew@pololibrary. org

Pinterest Party at Home

Stop by the Library, or email library@ pololibrary.org, for instructions to make this month’s craft, a Toilet Paper Pumpkin.

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, you do not need a password.

questions.

StoryWalk

The Oregon Public Library StoryWalk at Oregon Park West is now open. Scary, Scary Halloween by Eve Bunting begins on the path at the main parking lot.

New Releases

Christmas Cupcake Murder by Joanne Fluke (Mystery)

Murder At The PTA by Lee Hollis (Mystery)

Battle Ground by Jim Butcher (Science Fiction)

Disloyal: The True Story Of The Former Personal Attorney To President Donald J. Trump by Michael Cohen (Non-Fiction 973.933 COH)

Jack by Marilynne Robinson (Fiction)

The Return by Nicholas Sparks (Fiction)

The Brightest Star by Fern Michaels (Fiction)

The Gift Of Family by Mary Monroe (Fiction)

One More For Christmas by Sarah Morgan (Fiction)

Missionaries by Phil Klay (Fiction)

Magic Lessons by Alice Hoffman (Fiction)

An Irish Country Welcome by Patrick Taylor (Fiction)

Wednesday WhoDunIt

There is a ‘Wednesday WhoDunIt’ book discussion group. Pick any mystery book to read and be ready to share your recommendation. We will meet outside, if weather permits; if not, the discussion will be held, socially-distanced, in the

FORRESTON LIBRARY

Library Board Positions

Nominating petitions are now available for anyone interested in running for the Forreston Public Library Board. There will be three positions open and they are each 6 year terms. Call the library at 815-938-2624 or stop in for more information.

Snow Removal

We are currently accepting quotes for snow removal services of the library sidewalks and parking lot for the upcoming winter. Deadline to apply is Nov. 1. Contact Julie at 815-938-2624 for more information.

MT. MORRIS LIBRARY

Open Trustee Positions

We have two Trustee positions expiring. If you are interested in being in the Spring elections, packets are available for pickup from Village Hall.

Halloween Grab-N-Go

We will be passing out treat bags from 3-5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30. Come show us your costume. We will use gloves and masks while passing out bags of treats. First come, first served and while supplies last.

To-Go Craft Kits

Kids Craft (ages 3-9): Travel Calming Jar. Available through Oct. 31 (while supplies last). We will provide everything except warm water.

Tween/Teen Craft (ages 10–18) available now and while supplies last. This month is a motivational keychain. We provide everything except a pair of scissors.

Adult Craft (ages 19 and up): Pebble

Family Story Time

We have time slots available for you to sign your family up for a private Story

Time session. These sessions will be

Second Downtown Trick or Treat

9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 31 When making your rounds be sure to stop by the library to pick up a Take and Make craft project and a special treat. We can’t wait to see your costumes.

Services by Appointment

Browsing by appointment is available. Please call or message the library to schedule a time to come in to browse and check out materials. Also, anyone needing to send a fax, make copies, or use a computer may call the library and schedule an appointment to come in. Everyone over the age of 2 must wear a Magnet. Available now (while supplies last). We will provide everything. Call the library or email dawn. mtmorrislib@ gmail.com to reserve your kit then come pick it up curbside.

Virtual Storytime & To-Go Kits

Storytime will start Oct. 28 at 11:15 a.m. via Facebook Live and will be every week. Weekly Storytime themed kits will be available. Call the library 815734-4927 or email dawn.mtmorrislib@ gmail.com to pick up your kit.

Family Storytime {In-person}

In-person family storytime Friday, Oct. 23 and 30. This will be by appointment and for one family at a time. Fridays at 20-30 minutes long. Each week will include a story and an art project. Registration is required by 5 p.m. the Wednesday before to reserve your time slot each week.

Let’s Stick Together

Join us in a virtual puzzle with LetsSmask. We may be reached by phone at 815-938-2624, email at forrestonpubliclibrary@gmail.com or through Facebook messenger. We’re looking forward to seeing you.

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 to request materials or if you have any questions. 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.; will last approximately 45 minutes and will include books, rhymes and a craft. Must sign up at least two weeks in advance.

Masks will be required for ages 3 and up and you will be asked to use hand sanitizer upon entry to the library. Call the library 815-734-4927 or email dawn. mtmorrislib@gmail.com to register.

Browsing & Computer Use By Appointment

We are open for browsing and computer use by appointment; call they library to schedule a time. Masks are required and you will be asked to use

New Releases

Adult Fiction: Veiled in Smoke by Jocelyn

Green, Dear Child by Romy Hausmann.

Read for a Lifetime

All high school students are encouraged to sign up for “Read for a Lifetime”, a state initiative designed to encourage a life-long interest in reading. Every year 25 books, including contemporary fiction, nonfiction, and some classics are chosen for the program.

Students who read at least 4 of the books by April 15 receive a certificate of recognition from the state and a chance to win a gift card. Students must register by Nov. 15 to participate.

Please call or message the library to

sign up or for more information. hand sanitizer upon entering the library. No unaccompanied children are allowed in the library at this time (please do not bring your children if you will be using the computer). Browsing is limited to 30 minutes and computer use to one hour.

Curbside Pickup, Interlibrary Loans, Library Cards

Curbside Service and Interlibrary Loans are available during regular business hours. Mt. Morris Patrons can place holds through the catalog, by calling or emailing.

Library staff is quarantining all returned items for a period of time. Recently returned materials may remain on your account longer than usual.

No overdue fines will be charged. New library cards: Patrons can call or email the library to renew or receive new library cards.

Contact the library at 815-734-4927 or mmlib@mtmorris-il.org

• Oregon Republican Reporter • Mt. Morris Times •Tri-County Press • Forreston Journal

Driver of truck has been arrested for DUI

BY TIMOTHY EGGERT teggert@saukvalley.com

A 37-year-old Leaf River man was killed around 8:35 p.m. on Oct. 13 after his car was struck by an oncoming Mt. Morris driver who has been charged with aggravated driving under the influence, according to the Oregon Police Department.

Andrew Long was traveling eastbound near the 1700 block of West Washington Street when his vehicle, a passenger sedan, was struck by a pickup truck heading westbound, driven by Scott L. Disher, according to a department news release.

Disher, 33, of Mt. Morris, crossed over the center line and into the path of Long, the release said.

Long was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained from the accident.

Disher was transported with minor injuries to KSB Hospital in Dixon, where he was treated and released.

He was ticketed for driving while under the influence of alcohol, driving while under the influence of alcohol with a blood alcohol content greater than .08, improper lane usage and failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident.

Disher was also arrested, charged with and transported to the Ogle County Jail on one count of aggravated driving while under the influence of alcohol, a Class 4 Felony.

The accident remains under investigation and the Ogle County State Attorney’s office may bring additional charges against Disher, the release said.

OBITUARY

KENNETH E. MILLER

POLO - Kenneth E. Miller, 91, of Polo, passed away Friday, October 16, 2020 at CGH Medical Center in Sterling with his family by his side.

Kenneth was born March 8, 1929 in Leaf River, to his parents, Art and Ada Miller. He and his wife Alice were mar-

OGLE COUNTY SHERIFF

Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle reports the following police activity.

Oct. 12

Bobbi Heinze, 26, of German Valley was arrested at 11:39 p.m. for aggravated driving while under the influence of alcohol, driving while license suspended and improper use of registration after deputies initiated a traffic stop in the 12,000 block of North Illinois 26.

Heinze was transported to the Ogle County Jail where she was held in lieu

OREGON POLICE

Oregon Police Chief Shawn Melville reports the following police activity.

Oct. 6

At 6:07 a.m., police responded to the intersection of Washington and 4th Streets for a two-vehicle traffic crash involving a 2020 Jeep driven by Stephanie K. Freeze, 45, of Mt. Morris and a 2014 Ford driven by William J. Holloway, 57, of Leaf River. Freeze was issued a citation for disobeying a traffic control device.

Paige M. Beauchem, 16, of Chana, was issued a citation at 3:09 p.m. for ried on Dec. 18, 1953 in Polo and celebrated nearly 67 years of marriage.

Kenneth farmed in Polo for over 65 years, until his retirement just two years ago. He enjoyed collecting toy machinery and all things farming. Ken was a loving husband, father and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife, Alice; daughters, Marilyn (Mike) Deal of Northof bond.

Oct. 16

Jermaine Hollins, 32, of Rockford was arrested at 10:05 a.m. for not having a valid driver’s license and on an active Ogle County warrant after deputies conducted a traffic stop at Illinois 251 and Lindenwood Road.

Hollins was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was held in lieu of bond. speeding, 45 mph in a 30 mph zone. This violation occurred in the 1000 block of Adams Street.

Oct. 7

Alyssa P. Wright, 22, of Aurora, was arrested at 9:33 p.m. on two DuPage County warrants, one for failure to appear for dangerous drugs, and one for driving while license suspended. Wright was transported to the Ogle County Jail. glenn, Colorado and Judy (Angelo) Rukel of Bartlett; daughter-in-law, Betty Miller; sisters, Betty Wells of Mt. Morris and Darlene Barnhart of Polo;seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and his faithful furry companion, Toby.

Ken is preceded in death by a son, Richard; sisters, Margaret Bolen, Helen Byers and Mae Leupkas; and brother

Oct. 17

Richard Gallagher, 36, of Oregon was arrested at 7:45 p.m. for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of cannabis, possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting/obstructing a peace officer.

He was arrested after deputies conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of West Mud Creek Road and North Rock Road. Gallagher was also issued a citation for an equipment violation. issued a citation at 4:33 a.m. for speeding, 44 mph in a 30 mph zone. This violation occurred in the 800 block of N. 4th Street.

At 11:36 a.m., police investigated a two-vehicle traffic crash in the parking lot for the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office located at 1302 Pines Road involving a 2008 Chevrolet driven by David E. Johnson, 82, of Byron, and a parked 2000 Ford owned by Roy R. Ennenga, Jr., 39, of Oregon. No citations were issued.

Gerald L. Otten, 62, of Oregon, was arrested at 2:28 p.m. on an outstanding Ogle County warrant for failure to Everett in infancy.

A graveside service was held Wednesday, Oct. 21 at Fairmount Cemetery in Polo where the family asked anyone attending to please wear facial coverings.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be

directed to the Kenneth Miller Memorial.

Gallagher was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was released to correctional staff and held in lieu of bond.

Lucinda Perez, 30, of Rockford was arrested at 3:04 a.m. for driving while under the influence of alcohol after deputies conducted a traffic stop on Illinois 251 at Illinois 72 on a Brown GMC Envoy for a traffic violation. Perez was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held

in lieu of bond. appear. Otten was transported to the Ogle County Jail.

Oct. 9

Amber L. Jordan, 36, of Oregon, was issued a city citation at 4:27 p.m. for violating the nuisance animal ordinance of allowing a dog to run at large. This violation occurred in the 700 block of Jefferson Street.

Joshua M. Deuth, 29, of Oregon, was issued a citation at 9:16 p.m. for failure to stop at a stop sign. This violation