a Fulton High school graduate, and Jackson Bergren celebrated their graduation from Monmouth College by taking part in a college-sponsored trip to scotland. While most Monmouth College seniors were busy tackling capstone projects and planning post-graduate life, business majors Bergren and Pessman found themselves with something else on their hands – time. They began filling the void in an unconventional way by making funny videos story on page 5.
WHAT’S INSIDE
Photo provided by Monmouth College
Kyler Pessman (left),
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Fulton OKs Strategic Park Master Plan
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Fulton City Council on July 28 approved the MSA Strategic Park Master Plan that includes short- and long-term goals.
The plan still is in the preliminary stage, but approval was needed so the city can apply for an Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development grant.
Changes still could be made to meet the priorities of the community.
The council approved the motion unanimously.
The council tabled a motion July 28 to approve the creation of a marketing and tourism coordinator position.
First Ward Alderwoman Barbara Mask asked to table the motion to allow for a meeting regarding the position.
Fourth Ward Alderwoman Jackie Wilkin objected, citing the eight months in which the position previously has been discussed. Wilkin, 1st Ward Alderman Zach Ratcliff and 4th Ward Alderwoman Kathy Suehl voted against tabling but the motion to table the matter was approved.
The City Council also discussed the contract with artist Thomas Dambo to commission him to build a recycled troll for the city. Clinton officials across the
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Volunteers needed at Fulton’s Windmill Cultural Center
The Windmill Cultural Center in Fulton is putting out a request for volunteers.
The meeting for new volunteers begins at 2:30 p.m. Aug. 13 at 111 10th Ave., Fulton.
If you cannot attend the meeting but are interested in volunteering, call Jane Orman-Luker at 815-589-3479.
Fulton Kiwanis golf event Sept. 18 to raise funds for scholarships
The Fulton Kiwanis Club will host its annual golf outing Thursday, Sept. 18, at Sandburr Run Golf Course in Thomson. Tee off is at noon. Cost is $60 a person, which includes green fees, cart and lunch. Hole sponsorships are available for $50. All proceeds fund scholarships for Fulton High School students.
To reserve a foursome or sponsor a hole, call 563-249-3098.
Mississippi River in Iowa are in the process of commissioning the artist for two statues to be built at the Sawmill Museum and the arboretum. Fulton’s statue will cost between $250,000 and $300,000 to create, according to City Council meeting minutes.
The motion was set to be voted on during the July 28 meeting, but members of the council cited the short turnaround time to sign the contract. Ratcliff’s objection was the Clinton projects primarily were being covered by private donors with the contracts between the artist and the Sawmill Museum and the arboretum instead of with the city of Clinton.
The council voted against signing the contract, causing the motion to fail.
During the Committee of the Whole discussion, the council acknowledged the Illinois Department of Public Health’s award to the Fulton Water Department in recognition of it achieving the highest standard of compliance with the Illinois Fluoridation Act in 2024. The council paid special recognition to the public works department for helping to keep Fulton’s water clean.
The council was provided with a proposal with a new estimate for the cost to dredge the marina. The estimated cost, part of a three-stage plan, is $250,000. The
council discussed possible avenues of funding the project.
Finally, following the closure of Gold Leaf Bakery on July 27 after an ordinance banning the sale of Delta-9 products in city limits was approved, the council entered into a lengthy debate regarding the unexpected impact of the ordinance. Ratcliff raised the issue that the City Council didn’t intend to negatively impact Gold Leaf with the ordinance when the issue was passed.
Some council members claimed Gold Leaf’s closure was a premature move by business owners since a first violation only would result in a $100 fine.
“Gold Leaf was not shut down by Fulton or the Fulton Police Department. The business decided on their own,” Chief of Police Chad Hermes said.
Others raised objections regarding the business as a whole.
“Look all over their Facebook. Come get high! That is not a bakery in Fulton, Illinois,” 2nd Ward Alderman Terry Boonstra said, raising the question of Gold Leaf’s sale of gummies and pre-rolls and not just the sale of baked goods in Fulton.
The council plans on waiting for more information before making any new decisions.
Earleen Hinton file photo
Kathy Bielema, a volunteer at the Windmill Cultural Center in Fulton, talks about the history and types of windmills as she gives a tour at the center during the 25th anniversary celebration of Fulton’s de Immigrant windmill June 7.
Whiteside County Fair office open for business
Fair set to kick off Aug. 12
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Whiteside County Fair office in Morrison is open for business for the week before the 154th annual Whiteside County Fair.
The fair kicks off Aug. 12.
The office of the secretary and treasurer are in the building near the grandstand at the Whiteside County Fairgrounds in Morrison. It will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Friday, Aug. 8.
The secretary’s office hours will be from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 9. During this time, it will be accepting hand-delivered entries, processing those received by mail and selling reserved grandstand seating for the demo derby, season tickets and Mega Passes.
Mega Passes can be bought for $65 through Monday, Aug. 11.
Once the fair starts, the Mega Pass price increases to $75 and the pass will need to be bought from the carnival. This will let you ride any of the Wilson Family Rides when the carnival is open during the Whiteside County Fair.
Reserved grandstand seating for the Aug. 16 demolition derby went on sale Monday in the secretary’s office for $10 a person.
The demolition derby is the only show that has reserved seating available and is sold on a first-come, first-
into junior departments. That ticket allows the exhibitor to enter items in any of the departments listed and provides unlimited admission to the fairgrounds during the fair’s five-day run.
Livestock exhibitors are required to pay exhibit fees and should consult the website for details.
All exhibitors are urged to refer to the website for details on the requirements to enter the various competitions, which this year offer more than $119,000 in premiums, purses and prizes. Entries/premium information can be downloaded from the fair website at whitesidecountyfair.org in the premium section.
Entries must be done online or in writing, with the applicable fees submitted by the appropriate deadlines as listed on the website. All entries close Saturday, Aug. 9.
served basis with a limited number of seats available. Reserved seating could be bought online beginning Tuesday at eventbrite.com. Saving seats by using blankets, etc. for general seating is not allowed. Any items used for saving seats will be removed by fair staff.
There are no entry fees for exhibits in the departments of agriculture, floriculture, horticulture, textiles, culinary and hobbies. Adult exhibitors must buy the $25 season membership ticket and junior exhibitors who are 6 to 11 years old must buy a $5 season ticket to enter
The office will accommodate those wishing to buy season membership tickets, which allows the ticket holder unlimited admission to the fair. An adult season membership ticket costs $25 each, while a child’s weekly pass is $5. Tickets for both children and adults also can be bought at the gate during the fair. Single adult daily admission for the fair is $10 for ages 12 and older and $2 for children ages 6 to 11. Children 5 and younger are free.
The fair officially starts at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12, with the pleasure horse show at the Alternative Ag Services Arena in the infield.
Whiteside County opens centralized dispatch center
Morrison facility will handle emergency services under 1 roof
By BRANDON CLARK bclark@shawmedia.com
Whiteside County officially has opened its long-planned centralized 911 dispatch center, bringing all emergency dispatch services under one roof for the first time in the county’s history.
The new center, housed at the Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office in Morrison, began operations July 7. The consolidation marks the culmination of years of
planning and cross-agency collaboration aimed at improving public safety countywide, Whiteside County Sheriff John Booker said.
Previously, dispatch operations were split between centers in Sterling and Morrison, each covering half of the county. If a 911 call came in and emergency services were needed in an area that the center did not cover, the caller had to be transferred to the other center, potentially delaying response times.
Dispatchers now handle all emergency calls from a single, centralized location.
“This is a proud day for Whiteside County,” Booker said in a news release. “Bringing all dispatch operations together into one central hub at the sheriff’s office will better serve our citi-
zens and our first responders. I want to thank everyone who worked tirelessly to make this happen – our staff, local officials and our dedicated community members who supported this effort.”
The new dispatch center was funded by a 0.5% public safety sales tax approved by Whiteside County voters in November. The sales tax adds an additional 50 cents for every $100 that shoppers spend on general merchandise in Whiteside County and does not apply to groceries or items that must be titled or registered by a state agency.
The money will be used to fund dispatch services in Whiteside County, which County Administrator Amy Robbins has said cost $1.8 million annually to operate.
The centralized center is responsible for dispatching police, fire and emergency medical service units for 20 public safety agencies across the county. The transition is expected to increase efficiency and provide a more uniform service throughout the region.
“I want to say thank you again to the people of Whiteside County,” Booker said. “Your support of the public safety tax made this possible. You have invested in your safety and the safety of our first responders and we are grateful.
“I also want to give a special thank you to all of my employees. Your hard work, flexibility and dedication have made this transition a success and I’m proud of what we have accomplished together.”
Earleen Hinton file photo
A track official pauses the action in the mini van/SUV heat at the Whiteside County Fair’s demolition derby Aug. 17, 2024. This year’s fair kicks off Aug. 12.
Born: September 25, 1931 in Medford, WI
Died: August 2, 2025 in Yorkville, IL
Heaven gained a sports fan when our dear father passed away on August 2, 2025 at the age of 93. Jack Hubert Ottosen, Yorkville, Illinois was born on September 25, 1931, son of John and Florence (Nunn) Ottosen. He was raised in Wisconsin and northern Illinois, graduating from Stockton High School in 1949. He served in the army during the
Korean War.
He married the love of his life, Arlena Fish Ottosen on January 1, 1955. They shared many happy years together before her passing in 2010. They raised 6 children including Joel (Nancy) Ottosen of Yorkville, IL, Dale (Cynthia) Ottosen of Cayuga, NY, Lee Ann (Kurt) Harper of The Villages, FL, Karl (Aimee) Ottosen of Chicago, IL and Elaine (Gary) Baker of Payson, IL. David Ottosen, the youngest son, passed away in 2021. He leaves 12 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.
In their early married life, Jack and Arlena farmed in northwestern Illinois. Later, he became the Farm Bureau Manager in Kendall and Whiteside Counties. Although he did not farm in his later career, he loved to mow acres
LAVERNE PAUL “BARNEY” PESSMAN
LaVerne Paul “Barney” Pessman, 77, of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, passed on June 9, 2025.
of grass each week on his John Deere tractor at their home in the country. His love of life in the country and affinity for agriculture never faded.
Jack was an avid sports fan and loved the Chicago White Sox and the Fighting Illini. He managed the Morrison Merchants softball team for many years while living in Whiteside County. His favorite athletes, however, were his kids and grandkids. He traveled near and far to watch them in any sporting event.
He loved his family dearly and supported them by attending events throughout their lives. From plays to band concerts to musicals to birthday parties, he enjoyed them all. With pride, he recounted stories of his kids and grandkids to anyone who would listen.
WILLIAM L. HOGEBOOM
William L. Hogeboom, 71, of Prophetstown, IL, passed on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
Jack was a longtime member of the Morrison United Methodist Church, Morrison Rotary Club, Morrison Historical Society, and the Whiteside County Farm Bureau. Friends may greet the family at the Morrison United Methodist Church in Morrison from 9:00 to 11:00 am Saturday, August 9, 2025, with the funeral service following at 11:00. Burial will follow at Grove Hill Cemetery in Morrison. The Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. In Lieu of flowers memorials may be given in his honor to the Morrison Historical Society, Morrison Rotary Scholarship Fund or Whiteside County Farm Bureau Foundation. To send online condolences go to www. bosmarenkes.com
JACK HUBERT OTTOSEN
Fulton grad, best friend make mark on social media
Duo’s comedy clips go
viral
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
While most Monmouth College seniors were busy tackling capstone projects and planning post-graduate life, business majors Jackson Bergren and Kyler Pessman found themselves with something else on their hands – time.
With Bergren finishing his Fighting Scots football career and both friends entering their final semester, they began filling the void in an unconventional way by making funny videos.
“We started making videos consistently in February,” said Pessman, a Fulton High School graduate. “We were just having a ton of fun with it, and when some of them started to blow up, we decided to really commit. We’ve been posting almost every day since.”
Their social media journey wasn’t born out of a grand business plan. Rather, it started with something much simpler – boredom. But it quickly turned into something much bigger.
“I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to do, but I liked the idea of owning my own business someday,” said Bergren, who graduated summa cum laude. He added a marketing minor, which fed directly into the content creation efforts. “Content creation is all about marketing, whether that’s yourself or a product.”
Bergren, a United High School graduate, credits professors such as Tom Prince, Dick Johnston, Mike Connell and Jen Braun with helping shape his academic and personal growth, praising the clear role that Monmouth’s environment played.
“The smaller class sizes really allow you to build relationships with your professors,” he said. “That’s one of the best parts about Monmouth.”
Pessman and Bergren were roommates and best friends throughout all four years of college, but their content collaboration didn’t begin until their senior year, Bergren said.
“One day, we just decided we were capable of making funny skits,” he said. “It turned out we really enjoyed it.”
See COMEDY CLIPS on page 16
Photo provided by Monmouth College Roommates and best friends Kyler Pessman (left) and Jackson Bergren used their final semester at Monmouth College to create a series of viral videos.
Lyndon seeking community support to repair historic bridge
By BRANDON CLARK bclark@shawmedia.com
The village of Lyndon is seeking community support to preserve a piece of its history.
Village Clerk and Office Manager Maureen Johnson said work is underway to inspect the Lyndon Bridge’s more than 700 planks for weather deterioration and replacement. She said the price to donate a plank is $100.
“We’ve always had donated planks on the bridge and there’s little plaques on there that people can personalize as a way to keep the bridge going,” Johnson said. “Over the last few months, we were going through a new process of replacing the plaques on the bridge and replacing planks because weather deterioration has put them in a bad place. So we’re putting new plaques and new planks on the bridge and encouraging people to donate to the project again.”
Once almost lost to time, the bridge at 126 Sixth Ave. West stands today as a restored symbol of community perseverance and historic pride.
According to a timeline of the bridge on the village’s website, its story began in 1876, when the village’s petition to build a bridge across the Rock River was denied by the Whiteside County Board. That was followed by a failed construction attempt in 1886 because of a lack of funding.
In 1891, Lyndon Township petitioned for a special election to raise $10,000. However, Prophetstown Township refused to “enter into any joint contract … to build or maintain such said bridge.”
The following year, a vote passed overwhelmingly and a $16,400 contract was awarded to Keefer & Wyncoop for a Parker Pratt through truss bridge. Despite its early reluctance, Prophetstown Township agreed to cost-sharing
A plaque at the foot of the historic Lyndon Bridge denotes its placement on the National Register of Historic Places.
and the bridge was completed in 1894 for $19,606.
The bridge was modernized over the decades, including major upgrades in 1906 to accommodate automobiles. Repairs continued through 1979 until structural concerns led to its closure in 1980.
After the bridge sat unattended for the next 15 years, the Whiteside County Highway Department decided to demolish the bridge until Lyndon residents launched a grassroots Save Our Bridge campaign. A 1996 petition with 300 signatures led to the village’s annexation of the bridge. It later was deemed safe for pedestrian use, with grants and community support funding repairs and enhancements.
The Lyndon Bridge earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003, thanks to local advocate Fred Steele.
Continued enhancements and a place in the Rock River Trail Initiative (2013) make the bridge a vital community landmark.
For more information, call Lyndon Village Hall at 815-778-4484. To sponsor a bridge plank, visit villageoflyndon.org and click on the Donate/Merch tab.
Photos by Alex T. Paschal
The historic Lyndon Bridge spans the Rock River. Village Clerk and Office Manager Maureen Johnson said work is underway to inspect the bridge’s more than 700 planks for weather deterioration and replacement. She said the price to donate a plank is set at $100.
1995: Charles Hamstra’s farm near Albany destroyed by tornado
60 years
Aug. 4, 1965
Construction of the new Fast Car Wash facility has been progressing rapidly. The laying of the cement blocks and the roof will be completed by this weekend, owners Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Norman said. The car wash is just east of Fulton Recreation Lanes.
Larry and Ronald Letcher have bought the Home Appliance Company from Mr. and Mrs. Charles Wilcox and took over operations Aug. 2. The business has been renamed Letcher’s Appliance and Sewing Center.
50 years
Aug. 6, 1975
Del Curley, president of Agri-King, told City Council members that his company is considering an addition to the present facilities that will cost about $200,000. Mr. Curley asked the council to consider financing the addition by issuing industrial revenue bonds.
Harold Zeeryp, a pipefitter in the Depot Facilities division at Savanna
Army Depot, was presented a Sustained Superior Performance Award by Robert Shafer, director for services.
40 years
Aug. 7, 1985
The City Council had an enthusiastic response to a report by Chairman Barbara Mask on plans for Fulton’s Sesquicentennial celebration. The council also adopted a resolution to have a tax increase question on the ballot in the November election.
The summer reading program at the Fulton library came to a close with a party. More than 100 children attended the festivities, which included puppet shows, refreshments, awarding of certificates, wall charts and a balloon launch. Children released 170 balloons.
30 years
Aug. 2, 1995
Charles Hamstra’s farm located at 2849 Benson Road near Albany was destroyed by a tornado between 6:35 and 6:45 p.m. Thursday. Everyone
went to the basement except Charles, who was watching the sky. He watched two funnel clouds come together and then went to the basement. When the family came up from the basement everything on the farm was a total loss.
The City Council voted to upgrade the water mains around the Fulton High School complex. All water mains currently are 2-inch lines. The city voted to spend $7,700 to upgrade the water lines to a 6- or 8-inch size. The size would be sufficient to supply water to the new addition that is being planned for the high school.
20 years
Aug. 3, 2005
The city approved an agreement to take over operations of the privately run Heritage Canyon. City Administrator Randy Balk presented the agreement and City Council members unanimously approved it.
For the past five years, a group of citizens from Fulton, Morrison and
ATTENTION EXHIBITORS!
2025 SAUK VALLEY
Clinton have been working on a project they call the Highway 30 Coalition. On a recent trip to Washington, D.C., the group received $6.2 million to help engineer the project. The most diligent local person working for the four-lane highway between Fulton and Interstate 88 is Barb Suehl, a local businesswoman who was elated when the group was able to secure the funds.
10 years
Aug. 5, 2015
Illowa Thrift Store donated $500 to the volunteer Millers to help replace the four 16-year-old sail cloths on de Immigrant Windmill. The donation will help with both the cost and the shipping of the sail cloths.
Friends for Charity donated $1,000 to the Fulton Elementary School Clothes Closet. The Clothes Closet provides Fulton Elementary School children with clothing items, shoes and outerwear. Friends for Charity received $500 from the D.S. Flikkema Foundation and $500 from FACE.
SAUK VALLEY MEDIA ALL-AREA SOFTBALL TEAM
First team
Allie Anderson, Morrison, jr., C: Illinois Coaches Association All-State second-team pick in Class 2A, All-Northwestern Upstate Illini Conference South first-team pick who hit .448 with a teamhigh 34 RBIs to help the Fillies reach the Sweet 16.
Ella Dannhorn, Oregon, sr., IF/OF: ICA All-State second-team pick in Class 2A, first-team All-Big Northern Conference selection who hit .425 with a .496 OBP and 1.321 OPS. Had 51 hits, 16 doubles, 10 home runs, 36 RBIs, 55 runs scored and 55 stolen bases.
Bella Duncan, Morrison, sr., P: ICA AllState first-team pick in Class 2A, NUIC South first-teamer, conference player of the year and 2025 Sauk Valley Media Softball Player of the Year who hit .606 with five home runs, 15 doubles, four triples, 13 stolen bases, 25 RBIs and 46 runs scored. Went 16-3 in the circle with a 0.88 ERA, five no-hitters and one perfect game, striking out 308 batters in 127 innings to help lead the Fillies to the Sweet 16. Western Michigan recruit.
12 RBIs and eight stolen bases. Carl Sandburg College recruit.
Kendra Kingsby, Milledgeville, jr., IF/P: All-NUIC South first-team pick who hit .549 with six home runs and 38 RBIs. Posted a 1.20 ERA with 48 strikeouts in 34 innings pitched.
Zoe Kunau, Fulton, so., OF: ICA All-State second-team pick in Class 1A, All-NUIC West first-team selection who hit .532 with a school-record 59 hits and 38 stolen bases.
Mya Lira, Sterling, jr., SS: ICA All-State third-team pick in Class 3A, first-team All-Western Big 6 Conference selection who hit .475 with 33 runs scored.
Lucy Oetting, Newman, jr., IF: ICA AllState third-team pick in Class 1A and All-Three Rivers East first-team shortstop who hit .422 with two home runs, 14 RBIs, 35 runs scored and 12 stolen bases.
Marley Sechrest, Sterling, sr., C: Firstteam All-Big 6 selection hit .387 with 33 RBIs.
doubles, four triples and one home run. Scored 21 runs and stole 17 bases. Indian Hills Community College recruit.
Tyrah Vaessen, Amboy, sr., C: ICA AllState second-team pick in Class 1A, AllNUIC South first-team selection who hit .563 with a .596 OBP and 1.492 OPS. Had 49 hits, 22 doubles, one home run, 12 RBIs, 38 runs scored and 18 stolen bases.
Gianna Vance, Newman, fr., P: ICA AllState third-team pick in Class 1A, AllTRAC East second-team selection who hit .470 with a .561 OBP and 1.409 OPS. Hit five home runs with 37 RBIs and struck out 111 batters in 121 innings.
Cheyenna Wilkins, Polo sr., P: All-NUIC South first-team pick hit .458 with 27 hits, five doubles and one home run. Struck out 98 batters in 70 innings pitched. Judson University recruit.
Jaylynn Hamilton, Erie-Prophetstown, sr., IF: ICA All-State second-team pick in Class 2A, All-TRAC East first-team selection who hit .556 with 30 hits,
Bailey Tegeler, Dixon, sr., OF: ICA AllState third-team pick in Class 3A and a first-team All-BNC selection. Hit .479 with a .543 OBP, 1.290 OPS, 34 hits, eight
Kira Wilson, Fulton, sr., IF: ICA All-State third-team pick in Class 1A, All-NUIC West first-team selection hit .419 with 49 hits, 38 runs scored and 26 stolen bases. SVCC recruit.
See ALL-AREA SOFTBALL TEAM, page 15
Alex T. Paschal file
Fulton’s Zoe Kunau makes a diving attempt in center field against Amboy during a regional semifinal in May.
Alex T. Paschal file photo
Morrison’s Allie Anderson drives in a run against Milledgeville in a May 13 game.
Alex T. Paschal file photo
Fulton’s Kira Wilson connects on a pitch against Amboy during a regional semifinal May 21.
Jessie Otten file photo
Erie Prophetstown’s Jaylynn Hamilton dives back into first base safely beating the tag by Newman’s Claire Von Holten on May 6.
Earleen Hinton file photo
Morrison’s Bella Duncan is the 2025 Sauk Valley Media Softball Player of the Year.
Sterling’s Ruffit Park hosting 60th anniversary events this month
By BRANDON CLARK bclark@shawmedia.com
Ruffit Park Campground is celebrating the final stretch of summer with two special events in August. While the campground remains open through the end of October, families can enjoy some extra fun before school starts at the Back to School Splash Bash from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10. The event includes free lunch, swimming admission and backpacks for returning students (while supplies last).
Donations were provided by Cole’s Complete Tree Service, Sterling Motors, Boss Roofing, Blumhoff Farms & Trucking, Robert Enlow with Rob’s Home Repair, Route 30 Slots, Ruffit Park, Kokomo’s Shaved Ice and Habben Concrete & Trucking.
As Ruffit Park prepares to celebrate 60 years of campfires, family getaways and summer memories, the campground is inviting the community to share their favorite moments for a special anniversary celebration from 5 t o 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22.
Guests are encouraged to bring photos and share stories from their getaways at the campground while enjoying food from Brito’s food truck, Kokomo’s
shaved ice and Big Puffs Cotton Candy. Kids can enjoy free inflatables and yard games throughout the evening.
Ruffit Park has been a quiet getaway for families since 1965, when Chuck and Maxine Gaumer opened the campground and ran it for decades. After Chuck died in 2017 and Maxine died in 2021, the park faced an uncertain future until Maxine’s great-niece, Molly Habben, and her husband, Matthew, decided to carry on the legacy.
Inspired by stories from longtime campers, the Habbens took over the park in 2022. Since then, they have worked to restore its charm – reopening the pool, planning future improvements such as sand volleyball courts and keeping the spirit of the campground alive as a place for families to unplug, explore and make lasting memories.
“A lot of people still don’t know that the pool and splash pad are open to the public seven days a week,” Ruffit’s Kayla Dewald said. “But it’s been a great season so far and we can’t wait to see everyone.”
Ruffit Park is located at 24832 West Rock Falls Road/U.S. Route 30 in Sterling. For information, call Dewald at 779-861-0339 or email kokomosatruffitpark22@gmail.com.
Ruffit Park’s campers have enjoyed not just outdoor scenery, but also being part of a community of like-minded people. Holiday events such as the Fourth of July and Halloween bring them together for fun and activities.
Banking for Locals by Locals
Photo provided by Molly Habben
Whiteside County Fair August 12-16, 2025
DAILY
3:00 PM - Chicken Poo Bingo
Wed-Fri 4:00 PM - Cake/Pie Walk
6:00-9:00 PM - Bingo Nightly
Tue-Fri 6:00 PM & Sat 2:00 & 6:00 PMBike Give Away
Pony Rides, Petting Zoo
Barnyard Revue & Pig Races
Chainsaw Carving
Granpa Crachet Stage Show
3 Shows Per Day
TUESDAY – August 12, 2025
8:00 a.m. - Swine on grounds & weigh in 8:00 a.m. - Large Fowl on grounds
9:00 a.m. - Western Horse Show
12:00 p.m. - Open Swine Judging
12:00 p.m. - Floriculture Div l entries due
1:00 p.m. - Dairy Cattle on grounds
1:00 p.m. - Carnival open
1-5:00 p.m. - Wristband Day
2:00 p.m. - Floriculture Div l judged
2:00 p.m. - Kids Tractor Pedal Pull
4:30 p.m. - Jr. Swine Judged
6:00 p.m. - Bike Give Away
7:00 p.m. - Next Level Bull Riding
Whiteside County Fair August 12-16, 2025
WEDNESDAY – August 13, 2025
8:00 a.m. - Exhibition Barrels
9:00 a.m. - Western Horse speed events
9:00 a.m. - Beef Cattle-Open & Jr. on grounds
9:00 a.m. - Dairy Judged – Open & Jr.
10:00 a.m. - Beef Cattle weighed
10:00 a.m. - Large Fowl Judged
1:00 p.m. - Carnival open
1-5:00 p.m. - Wristband Day
2:00 p.m. - Heavy Horses on Grounds
4:00 p.m. - Sheep due on grounds
6:00 p.m. - Bike Give Away
7:00 p.m. - Next Level Pro Bronc Riding
Whiteside County Fair
THURSDAY – August 14, 2025
9:00 a.m. - Heavy Horse Halter Judged
9:00 a.m. - Beef Cattle-Jr. Heifer/Jr. Steer Show
12:00 p.m. - Floriculture Div ll due
1:00 p.m. - Carnival open
1-5:00 p.m. - Wristband Day
1:00 p.m. - Heavy Horse Hitch including 4-Horse Hitch
2:00 p.m. - Floriculture Div ll judged
6:00 p.m. - Bike Give Away
August 12-16, 2025 FIREWORKS TO
7:00 p.m. - Full Throttle Monster Trucks
Whiteside County Fair August 12-16, 2025
FRIDAY – August 15, 2025
9:00 a.m. - Sheep Judged
9:00 a.m. - Open Beef Show Judged
9:00 a.m. - Heavy Horse Hitch Judged
1:00 p.m. - Carnival open
1-5:00 p.m. - Wristband Day
1:00 p.m. - Heavy Horse Hitch including 6-Horse & Unicorn Hitch
5:30 p.m. - Antique Tractor Parade
6:00 p.m. - Bike Give Away
6:30 p.m. - Tractor & Truck Pull
Whiteside County Fair
SATURDAY – August 16, 2025
11:00 a.m. - Kids Tractor Pedal Pull
11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. - Election of Officers
12:00 p.m. - Carnival open
12:00 p.m. - Harness racing
1-5:00 p.m. - Wristband Day
2:00 p.m. - Bike Give Away
4:00 p.m. - Wood Carving Auction
4-6:00 p.m. - Exhibits Released
6:00 p.m. - Bike Give Away
6:00 p.m. - Exhibit Buildings Close
6:30 p.m. - Demo Derby
Black Hawk College announces spring 2025 high honors and honors lists
Black Hawk College – Quad-Cities Campus recently announced its honors and high honors lists for the spring semester.
Students named to the lists include:
High honors (grade-point average of 3.75 to 4.0)
Albany: Logan Copeland, Michelle Naftzger
Cordova: Ava Engebretson, Ava Goodson, Ashlynne Schabilion, Mason Smyser
Lily Cantu, Sterling, jr., OF Belle Curley, Fulton, jr., U Resse Germann, Fulton, sr., C
Kendra Hutchison, Milledgeville, sr., IF
Kiera Karlson, Amboy, jr., OF Jesslyn Krueger, Rock Falls, sr., IF/ OF/P
Isabella Johnston, Alexis Payne, Kallie Wiseley
Fenton: Samantha Kilker
Hillsdale: Makayla Oleson
Mendota: Eleanor Eager
Mt. Morris: Kaitlyn Drew
Port Byron: Brody Barrett, Braeden Bode, Taylor Churchill, Mya Dalaska, Eli Hinde, Braden Janicki, Isaac Kaufman, Madalyn Ketelsen, Erica Lowe, Sophia Mattan, Caitlin Mumma, Andrew Murray, Jordan Reickard, Emilai Young
Often drawn from everyday experiences, their videos – usually short, punchy skits – are heavily humorous.
“Comedy is really the center of it all,” Pessman said. “We laugh at ourselves during filming and just have fun with it. Humor fits our personalities naturally so we don’t feel like we’re acting too much.”
Their creative process is refreshingly organic.
“We’ll either sit in the CSB until someone thinks of something funny or we’ll see a video online and put our own twist on it,” Pessman said. “We often just start filming and figure out the rest on the fly.”
Roles and responsibilities are fluid. Sometimes Bergren films while Pessman acts, and vice versa. With other friends joining in, casting usually is spontaneous.
“There’s no set rule. Whoever volun-
teers or fits the role best just does it,” said Pessman, a magna cum laude business graduate.
Bergren typically handles editing and uploading the videos, with the pair aiming to post daily, often about 9 a.m. – a time they found to be particularly effective during the school year.
They focus primarily on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube – platforms well-suited to short-form comedic content. TikTok and Instagram have brought them the most success, including some unexpected viral moments.
“Our most viewed video was on Instagram,” said Pessman, laughing. “It’s about if humans threw up like dogs. It’s dumb, but people really related to it. It got nearly 38 million views and over nine million on TikTok.”
Another surprise came from an earlier video about hide-and-seek, which Bergren initially didn’t even like.
“It ended up getting over 13 million views on TikTok and was reposted by Barstool Sports,” he said. “That was a real moment for us.”
Even more surreal were interac -
tions with big-name brands and celebrities. In addition to Barstool, Jason Derulo, ESPN and House of Highlights have reposted their videos. While they’ve yet to receive large payments, the attention has opened doors, especially on Instagram, where brands have begun reaching out for potential collaborations.
“YouTube hasn’t been as kind to us,” Pessman said. “But if we can hit a few million more views, we could get monetized there, too. That’d be a big deal.”
The bigger picture
The duo’s journey into the digital spotlight also brought unexpected personal growth. For Bergren, content creation helped overcome insecurities.
“I used to care too much about what others thought of me,” he said. “Posting videos made me realize most people are focused on their own lives. You might as well do what you enjoy.”
Pessman echoed the sentiment.
“Our biggest advice? Don’t care what people think. Just post,” he said. “Be yourself, be consistent and don’t be
afraid of looking stupid. That’s often where the best content comes from.”
They also emphasize the importance of consistency for any aspiring creator.
“Most people fail because they don’t keep up with it,” Bergren said. “Consistency is the No. 1 factor in building a following.”
Their story is not just about comedy, algorithms or chasing views. It’s also a testament to the power of creativity, friendship and the freedom to take risks.
As Bergren heads into the post-college world with both a degree and a growing social media presence, he sees the overlap clearly.
“My academic background in marketing definitely helps,” he said. “Content creation is a business. Branding, strategy, knowing your audience – it’s all connected.”
Whether their videos become a fulltime gig, they’ve already achieved something many students only dream of – reaching millions, getting paid to do what they love and learning a little more about themselves along the way.
We Support Our Local Schools!
GO STEAMERS AND KNIGHTS!
BUSINESS AND SERVICE
Drs. Terry and Sarah Foust
“Serving Large and Small Animals”
602 N. High Street, Port Byron, IL
Phone 309-524-6484
Fax: 309-524-6485 www.riverviewvets.com
FARM - INDUSTRIAL
Larry’s Metal
We Sell and Service All Major Brands 309-887-4447
Call 815-632-2560
16262 Waller Rd., (Rt. 84), Fulton, IL
ALBANY
Albany United Methodist Church
502 N. 1st Avenue, 309-887-4781
Pastor Toni Lucas
St. Patrick Catholic Church 1201 N. Bluff St., Albany
Father Timothy Barr, Pastor CORDOVA
Cordova Baptist 602 Third Ave. South, Cordova
Pastor Carmen Jordan 309-654-2501 - www.cordovafbc.com
EAST MOLINE
Sycamore Baptist Church 5323 180th Street North, East Moline 309-200-2505 www.sycamorebaptistchurch.com
Wildwood Baptist Church 18717 Hubbard Road, East Moline 309-496-9397 office@ wildwoodchurch.com
Pastors Brian Smith, Andrew Robinson, Andy Thomaston and Matt Winquist
Zion Lutheran Church 17628 Hubbard Road, East Moline Rev. Gary A. Wright - 309-496-3592
ERIE
Erie Baptist Church 8th Ave. and 11th Street, Erie Call Ron Kimball for info: 309-230-3584
Erie Christian Church 715 6th Ave., Erie, 309-659-2561
Tampico First United Methodist Church Pastor Leanne Keate - 815-564-2302
Clinton Half Marathon, 5K and 10K Run/Walk set for Sept. 7
YWCA Clinton announced the 14th annual Clinton Half Marathon, 10K and 5K Run/Walk is set to take place at 7:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 7.
The race is on a scenic course along the Mississippi River and offers distances for all fitness levels, whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, casual 10K participant or prefer a brisk 5K run or
walk. Learn more about the race and register at www.clintonhalfmarathon.com. Join YWCA Clinton and the Clinton community for a pre-race celebration at the YWCA Street Fest Party from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, in historic downtown Clinton. There will be local food trucks and vendors and live music from the 10 of Soul. Runners can pick up race packets at this time.
– Shaw Local News Network
WHITESIDE COUNTY PROPERTY TRANSFERS
July 21-25
Warranty deeds
Matthew Walters to Kyle Bahnsen, 2207 4th St., Fulton, $23,000.
Nathaniel Davis to Cindy Casas, 5727 Garden Plain Road, Fulton, $175,000.
Kelly E Buck and Gary J Buck to Jay King, 30671 E. Thome Road, Rock Falls, $60,000.
Top Tier Rentals Llc to Comfort Olubisi Mall and Edward C Mall, 107 W. South St., Morrison, $52,000.
Morrison Main Street Land Trust 1 to Gold Standard Ventures Llc, 203 W. Main St., Morrison, $500,000.
Nathan R Mauren and Caitlin E Mauren to Tyler M Gould and Mary E Gould, 4526 Winn Road, Sterling, $364,000.
Paul H Sikkema and Lisa M. Sikkema to Shane M Sikkema, Patricia D Tammen and Amanda J Podulka, one parcel in Fulton Township: 01-11-200-005, $0.
Shannon L Dolieslager, Brianne L Hoy, Kasie A Dodd and Jodi L Meier to Eric Robinson Jr, 512 W. Sixth Ave., Lyndon, $130,000.
Thomas W Jones to Brian Steines Logging Inc, one parcel on Smaltz Road, Fulton: 02-05-400-008, $275,373.
Kurt And Brian Properties Llc to Sterling Industrial Development Commission, 302 4th Ave., Sterling, $0.
Brad E Grobe to James Thielen and Dorothy Thielen, 105 W. Grove St., Coleta, $15,000.
Joel R Mcdonnell to Kophamer Blean Property Management Llc Series Iv, 206 Larch St., Morrison, $31,000.
Rita F Stites, formerly known Rita F Howard, and Johnny Stites to Bradley J Clark, 1806 New High St., Rock Falls, $155,500.
Zachary B Brinkerhoff and Madison N Brinkerhoff to Brandon P Scudder and Karen A Scudder, 602 S. Jackson St., Morrison, $199,000.
Thomas Sheldon and Shareen Pratt to Dennis Feldkirchner and Joann Feldkirchner, 611 Marsha Lane, Rock Falls, $300,000.
Logan Malmberg to Shane Williams, 504 E. 8th St., Rock Falls, $115,000.
James N Roberts and Linda M Roberts to Tad
A Nelson and Melissa K Nelson, 8512 Albany Road, Erie, $375,000.
Kristopher J Kyarsgaard to Skr Rentals Llc, 4505 E. Lincolnway, Sterling, $0. Kristopher J Kyarsgaard to Skr Rentals Llc, 25660 Deer Run, Sterling, $0.
Dennis J Kyarsgaard to Kristopher J Kyarsgaard, 25660 Deer Run, Sterling, $0.
Jaclyn M Sprague and Michael B Sprague Jr to Shay Brown, 313 1st Ave., Rock Falls, $250,000.
Justin T Verhulst and Meghan Verhulst to William Rodriguez and Marisa Smith, 1005 Ave. F, Sterling, $230,000.
Brandon P Scudder and Karen A Scudder to Jamie Avila, 202 17th Ave., Sterling, $165,000. Janice Montee Estate, Linda J Montee, Pamela S Montee, Victoria L Stokes, and Paul M Montee to Nancy E Matthews, 806B Village Lane, Sterling, $142,000.
Timothy M Gould and Diane L Gould to Michael Topp, one parcel on Tampico Road, Sterling: 04-26-300-010, $50,000.
Quit claim deeds
Laura Stoudt to Laura Stoudt and Chad E Stoudt, 2602 Meadow Drive, Sterling, $0.
Barbara Graham to Michael L Graham, one parcel in Albany Township: 12-01-200-009, $0.
Eric J Turnroth to Eric J Turnroth Trust and Linda M Turnroth Trust, one parcel in Hume Township: 16-01-100-013, $0.
Eric J Turnroth and Linda M Turnroth to Eric J Turnroth Trust and Linda M Turnroth Trust, 3000 Middle Drive, Rock Falls, $0.
Deeds
Sheriff Of Whiteside County and Brian Westfall to Us Bank, 1214 W. 20th St., Rock Falls, $0.
Robert Lee Porter and Mary Lou Porter to Robert Lee Porter Trust and Mary Lou Porter Trust, one parcel in Montmorency Township: 17-09-426-005, $0.
Kathy L Rigdon and Jose G Mendez Correa to Kathy Rigdon Trust and Jose Mendez Correa Trust, 22370 Mathew Road, Sterling, $0.
Source:WhitesideCountyRecorder’sOffice
CLASSIFIED
BOARD OPERATOR
Seasonal Part Time Dixon & Peru
Shaw Local Radio is lookin g to expand our programming team with a seasonal, part-time Board Operator to support our busy fall and winter sports season.
What You'll Do :
Operate the studio control board during live and remote broadcasts
Air commercials and programming content
Assist with post-production and digital content tasks
Ensure broadcast audio meets quality standards
What We're Loo king For:
Availability to work evenings and weeke nd s
Basic computer knowledge helpful - we will train the right candidate
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
Must be at least 18 with a high school diploma or GED
Previo us radio or audio experience is a plus but not requir ed
$15.00 per hour
Why Join Us:
Work with a supportive, creative team
Gain hands- on experience in live radio broadcasting
Be part of a d ynamic and engaging local media operation
Please send your resume: Online: www.shawmedia.com/careers
or mail to Human Resources at: Shaw Local Radio, PO Box 250, Crystal Lake, IL 60039
Shaw Media is an equal opportunity and drug free employer.
We encourage applications from all backgrounds. Pre-employment drug screen and background check are required.
ESTATE AND GARAGE SALE
Wednesday, August 6th 12pm to 8pm
13360 Blue Goose Road, Morrison (Behind the Forest Inn, down the road from Walmart Distribution Center) Red Wing Crock, Early American Presscut Glass, Princess House Cook ware, Princess House Orchard Medley, 10,000 plus Card Collection, including Baseball, Football Hockey , Nascar, NHRA, Elvis Collective Cards ALL PRICED TO GO! Nascar Collectibles, American Professional 16" Quilting Machine with Frame Must go! Husqvarna Sewing Machines, Segers, More Fabric and LOTS OF QUILTING PATTERNS WITH THE FABRIC! Fabric, Craft items, Beautiful Vintage Cradle, Oil Lamps, Magazine Collectio n of Hot Rod Magazines, Hunter Magazines, Cook Books and Cooking Magazines, Daniel Steel Hard Cover Book Selection, Terry Redlin Signed, Numbered and Framed Prints, Wine G lasses, Cedar Chest, TOOLS Hand Power Tools, 1999 Ford Crew Cab Dully, 2024 Harris Mo dified / Sport Mod, 2 @ 602 Crate Motors, Midwest Open Motor, 17 Foot Extra Tall Enclosed Trailer, 26' Enclosed Trail er with Cabinets set up for Racing much much more!
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 14TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF Whiteside - Morrison , ILLINOIS NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Se rvicing Plaintiff vs. Stephanie L. Kessler; et. Al Defendant 25 FC 6 CALENDAR NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the abov e entitled cause Intercounty Judici al Sales Corporation will on September 4, 2025, at the hour 3:00 p.m., Third Floor Lobby of the Whiteside County Courthouse, 200 East Knox Street, Morrison, IL 61270, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following desc ribed mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 11-33-127005. Commonly known as 1011 10th Avenue, Rock Falls, IL 61071.
The real estat e is : single family residence If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common inter est community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Secti on 18.5 of the Condominium Prope rty Act. Sale terms: At sale, the bidd er must have 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection Prospecti ve bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information
For informati on call Sales Department at Plaintiff's Attorney, Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527. (630) 794-5300. 14- 2500272 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3270262 Jul. 29, Aug. 5, 12, 2025
tives and to theattorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
East Main Street, Morrison, Illinois, 61270.
walter-Schurman
NELSON, KILGUS, & BU CKWALTERSCHURMAN
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 14TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
COUNTY OF ROCK ISLAND - ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Freedom Mortgage Corporati on Plaintiff vs Franklin Hiram Cromer; et al ; Defendant 25 FC 16 NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby giv en that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Interc ounty Judic ial Sales Corporation will on September 8, 2025, at the hour 8:30 a.m., Lobby , Justice Center, 1317 Third Ave nue, Rock Island, Illinois 61201, sell, in person, to the highest bidder for cash, the following desc ribed mortgaged real estate: P.I .N. 16-01-214-004.
Commonly known as 1517 32nd Stree t, Rock Island, IL 61201.
September 4, Lobby of the Knox Street, for cash, the I.N. 11-33-127Rock Falls, IL
If the subject
mmon inter est
n a mortgagee subsection (g-1) of ct. Sale terms: certified funds, o refunds. The Prospecti ve ile to verify all
aintiff's Attorney, rontage Road
794-5300. 14- 25-
RPORATION
I3270262
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT ROCK ISLAND COUNTY, ILLINOIS
U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.-
DAMON VARNELL et al Defendant 2024 FC 210 NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on March 19, 2025, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 1:00 PM on August 13, 2025, at the McCarthy, Callas & Feeney, PC, 329 18th Street Suite 100, Rock Island, IL, 61201, sell at publi c inperson sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 33 9 14TH AVE, MOLINE, IL 61265
Property Index No. 17-06-205-007 The real estate is improved with a residence Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted.
The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, 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 representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in ''AS IS'' condition The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.
Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.
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 information
If this prope rty is a condomi nium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4) If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at th e foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
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.
You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where Th e Judicia l Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For informat ion, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff's Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876
THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATIO N One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60 606-4650 (312) 236- SALE
You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales
CODILIS & ASSOCIATES , P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-24-07330
Attorney ARDC No. 0046 8002 Case Number: 2024 FC 210 TJSC#: 45-878
NOTE: Pur su ant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Pla intiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2024 FC 210 I3269686 (The Review Jul. 22, 29, Aug. 5, 2025)
GARAGE SALES
E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To efil e, you must first create an account wi th an e- filing service pr ovider Visit https://efi le.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www.illinois courts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp.asp
The estate will be administered without Court Supervision unless under Section 28-4 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested pers on terminate s independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Clerk.
Attorneys for said Estate
209 East Main Street, Morrison, IL 61270-0111
Phone: 815/772-2121
Fax: 815/772-2026
E-mail: msehurman@ nelsonkilgus.com
July 29, August 5, 12, 2025
Place your Garage Sale ad online 24/7 at www.ShawLo ca l.com/ garage sale s Email: classified@ shawlocal.com or call Mon-Fri 8am-4pm: 815-526-4645 IN THE FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT OF HENRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS GENERAL DIVISION STATE OF ILLINOIS ) )SS. COUNTY OF HENRY ) 90TX11
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT WHITESIDE COUNTY, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF CHRIS TOPHER M. MURPHY, Deceased No. 2025PR75 CLAIM NOTICE
Notice is given of the death of CHRIS TOPHER M MURPHY. Letters of Office were issued to Connie Murphy as Independent Representative on July 15, 2025, whose attorneys are SAUK VALLEY LAW GROUP, LLC, 100 West 1st Street, Suite B, Rock Falls, Illinois 61071. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, Whiteside County Courthouse, 200 East Knox Street, Morrison, Illinois, or with the Representative, or both, on or before January 30, 2026, and any claim not filed wi thin that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entatives and to theattorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To efil e, you must first create an account wi th an e- filing service pr ovider Visit https://efi le.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www.illinois courts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp.asp.
Dated July 23, 2025
Dated July 23, 2025
Connie Murphy, Independent Representative
Daniel C. Hawkins SAUK VALLEY LAW GROUP, LLC 100 West 1st Street, Suite B Rock Falls, IL 61071 (815) 535-6769
July 29, August 5, 12, 2025
Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Circuit Clerk of Whiteside County, 200 East Knox Street, Morrison, Illinois 61270, or wi th the representative , or both, on or before January 29, 2026 or, if mailing or delivery of a notice from the representative is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/18-3), the date stated in that notice . Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered by the claimant to the representativ e and to the attorneys within 10 days after it has been filed.
Michelle B. Buckwalter-Schurman NELSON, KILGUS, & BU CKWALTERSCHURMAN
Attorneys for said Estate 209 East Main Street, Morrison, IL 61270-0111
Phone: 815/772-2121
Fax: 815/772-2026
E-mail: msehurman@ nelsonkilgus.com
DISTRICT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will be held on the 2nd day of September 2025, from 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. at The Tom Church Farm located in the South Half of the Southwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter and part of the Northwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter loca ted West of Seyller Road in Section 22, Township 18 North, Range 5 East of the Fourth Principal Meridian, County of HENRY, State of Illinois, wh ich is within the boundaries of said drainage district, for the purpose of electing a drainage commissioner of said drainage district for a term of three years.
Connie Murphy, Independent Representative
Daniel C. Hawkins SAUK VALLEY LAW GROUP, LLC
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT WHITESIDE COUNTY, ILLINOIS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CAROL J. WIERSEMA , DECEASE D. No. 2025 PR 80 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given to creditor s of the death of Carol J Wiersema Letters Testamenta ry were issued on July 17, 2025 to Evelyn Schaver, 1602 11th Street, Fulton, IL 61252 as Independent Executor, wh ose attorneys of record are Nelson, Kilgus & Buckwalter-Schurman, 209 East Main Street, Morrison, Illinois, 61270. The estate will be administered without Court Supervision unless under Section 28-4 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested pers on terminate s independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Clerk. Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Circuit Clerk of Whiteside County, 200 East Knox Street, Morrison, Illinois 61270, or wi th the representative , or both, on or before January 29, 2026 or, if mailing or delivery of a notice from the representative is
July 29, August 5, 12, 2025
DRAINAGE ELECTION NOTICE IN RE: CENTRAL SPECIAL DRAINAGE DISTRICT IN THE COUNTIES OF HENRY AND WHITESIDE AND STATE OF ILLINOIS AND SUB-DISTRICT NO. 1 OF SAID CENTRAL SPECIAL DRAINAGE DISTRICT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will be held on the 2nd day of September 2025, from 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. at The Tom Church Farm located in the South Half of the Southwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter and part of the Northwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter loca ted West of Seyller Road in Section 22, Township 18 North, Range 5 East of the Fourth Principal Meridian, County of HENRY, State of Illinois, wh ich is within the boundaries of said drainage district, for the purpose of electing a drainage commissioner of said drainage district for a term of three years.
Every adult owner of land in said district, whether residing within or wi thout the district, is entitled to vote, and if a resident of the State of Illinois, is eligible to the office of drainage commissioner.
Dated: June 24, 2025
TERILYN A MOTLEY Clerk of the Circuit Court Henry County, Illinois Ex officio clerk of said drainage district July 29, August 5, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 14TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF Whiteside - Morrison , ILLINOIS NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Se rvicing Plaintiff vs. Stephanie L. Kessler; et. Al Defendant 25 FC 6 CALENDAR NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the abov e entitled cause Intercounty Judici al Sales Corporation will on September 4, 2025, at the hour 3:00 p.m., Third Floor Lobby of the Whiteside County Courthouse, 200 East Knox Street, Morrison, IL 61270, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: THE SOUTH HALF OF LOT 5 AND THE NORTH HALF OF LOT 6 IN BLOCK 1 IN W. F. FLOCK FIRST ADDITION TO THE CITY OF ROCK FALLS, IN WHITESIDE COUNTY, ILLINOIS; ACCORDING TO THE PLAT RECORDED DECEMBER 4, 1947 IN PLAT BOOK 8 PAGE 187. P.I.N. 11-33-127-005. Commonly known as 1011 10th Avenue, Rock Falls, IL 61071. The real estat e is : single family residence If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common inter est community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Secti on 18.5 of the Condominium Prope rty Act. Sale terms: At sale, the bidd er must have 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection Prospecti ve bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information For informati on call Sales Department at Plaintiff's Attorney, Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527. (630) 794-5300. 14- 2500272 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3270262 Jul. 29, Aug. 5, 12, 2025
Every adult owner of land in said district, whether residing within or wi thout the district, is entitled to vote, and if a resident of the State of Illinois, is eligible to the office of drainage commissioner.
Dated: June 24, 2025
TERILYN A MOTLEY Clerk of the Circuit Court Henry County,
Albany Town ship Town Fund
April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025
Beginning Balance 4/1/24
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 14TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF ROCK ISLAND - ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS Freedom Mortgage Corporati on Plaintiff vs Franklin Hiram Cromer; et al ; Defendant 25 FC 16
NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby giv en that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Interc ounty Judic ial Sales Corporation will on September 8, 2025, at the hour 8:30 a.m., Lobby , Justice Center, 1317 Third Ave nue, Rock Island, Illinois 61201, sell, in person, to the highest bidder for cash, the following desc ribed mortgaged real estate: LOT NUMBER SEVEN (7) AND EIGHT (8) IN BLOCK NUMBER SIX (6) IN THAT PART OF THE CITY OF ROCK ISLAND KNOWN AS AND CALLED SOUTH PARK SECOND ADDITION TO SAID CITY; SITUATE D IN ROCK ISLAND COUNTY, ILLINOIS
P.I .N. 16-01-214-004.
Commonly known as 1517 32nd Stree t, Rock Island, IL 61201.
For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff's Attorney, Codilis & A ssociates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527. (630) 7945300. 14-25-00788 IJSC INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3270673 (The Review Aug 5, 12, 19 2025)
Albany Town ship General A ssistance April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025
Balance 4/1/2024
$9,420.66
I, Daniel Bitler, Treasurer of Albany Township, Whiteside County, Illinois, being duly sworn, depose and say the following statement is the correct report for the fiscal year beginning April 1, 2024 and ending Mar ch 31, 2025.
August 5, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT ROCK ISLAND COUNTY, ILLINOIS
U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff,
DAMON VARNELL et al Defendant 2024 FC 210 NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on March 19, 2025, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 1:00 PM on August 13, 2025, at the McCarthy, Callas & Feeney, PC, 329 18th Street Suite 100, Rock Island, IL, 61201, sell at publi c inperson sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: THE WEST SEVENTY (70) FEET OF LOT NUMBER SEVEN (7) IN BLOCK NUMBER TWO (2) IN ''OAK HILL PARK'' AN ADDITION IN THE CITY OF MOLINE, ROCK ISLAND COUNTY, ILLINOIS . Commonly known as 339 14TH AVE, MOLINE, IL 61 265 Propert y Index No. 17-06-205-007
The real estate is improved wi th a residence
Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, 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 representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in ''AS IS'' condition The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.
Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.
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 information
If this prope rty is a condomi nium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4) If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at th e foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
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.
You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where Th e Judicia l Sales Corporation conducts foreclosur e sales. For informat ion, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff's Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876
THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATIO N One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60 606-4650 (312) 236- SALE
You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales
CODILIS & ASSOCIATES , P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-24-07330
Attorney ARDC No. 0046 8002 Case Number: 2024 FC 210 TJSC#: 45-878
NOTE: Pur su ant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Pla intiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2024 FC 210 I3269686 (The Review Jul. 22, 29, Aug. 5, 2025)
