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Winter plays an important role for our souls
Well, winter has spoken, and her official reign doesn’t even begin for another two weeks.
I love winter. I really do.
When I am indoors, curled up under a pile of blankets in our cozy little cottage, with the Christmas trees aglow.
Not bundling up so much that I look like Ralphie’s little brother in his snowsuit on “A Christmas Story.” And not wearing myself out trudging through snow and ice doing typical daily errands.
Nor am I a big fan of removing snow from my car and scraping the windows while my car warms up when the temperature is in the single digits.
This past week, the responsibilities of being mom to a nearly 12-year-old black Labrador have been bone chilling. Zeke seems to have forgotten what snow is, and since he finds it more challenging to settle on a good spot where he usually does his business, he now drags me all the way to the other side of the backyard to get the job done. Thank God my husband has shoveled paths in the snow for this reason.
With all of that being said, I love that winter offers us all an opportunity, should we choose to accept it, for the rest our bodies, minds and spirits need.
The animal kingdom, by instinct, goes into hibernation this time of year. Though we are more highly evolved creatures (sometimes, I wonder about that), we are no different in needing that physical rest. And yet, many of us try to resist it by continuing with our usual pace.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Peru Township unveils new website
Peru Township Supervisor Greg Vaccaro announced that the township has a new website: perutownshipil.com.
The website was created to improve public access and information about all functions of Peru Township government to better serve the public. Transparency and modernization offer valuable information and resources.
SPIRIT MATTERS
Jerrilyn Zavada Novak
There is a reason why the pre-Christmas season can be especially exhausting when our calendars our filled with decorating, social engagements, shopping, wrapping gifts, baking and more.
We aren’t supposed to be moving this fast and doing so much this time of year, and the wisdom inscribed in our bodies knows it.
Winter, while important for physical restoration, is essential for us on a spiritual level.
It is during winter that we allow ourselves to not know what the future holds. It is during winter that despite not knowing what the future holds, we trust that deep within we are being prepared for the future, and that whatever it does offer, we will be able to meet it ready, refreshed and renewed.
This past week, my mom and I drove to Toluca, the same route we have driven my entire life to visit relatives. I know the landscape well through all four seasons. The day was clear and the fields were white with snow, so visibility seemed to stretch on forever.
This being one of my first real outings since last week’s snowfall, the sheer spaciousness through which we drove was medicine for my soul. It was as though I could feel that spaciousness
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Anyone in need of financial assistance, social services, property tax assessment or township road maintenance can call 815-223-0746.
Amelia Rosales blows out the flames from her marshmallow during the Mendota Chamber’s annual “A Mendota Christmas” event Saturday along Illinois Avenue. MaKade Rios for Shaw Local News Network ON THE COVER
open up inside me, too. That spaciousness inside and out is something that can’t be described, only experienced.
For someone like me, who thrives on open space, this trip on a route I’ve driven hundreds of times, was certainly a spiritual experience.
I have said this before and I will say it again: The infinite spaciousness we experience on the outside, even though it is finite to our senses, is symbolic of the infinite spaciousness of our spiritual hearts.
Our hearts hold the entirety of our lives, all of our experiences. And spiritually, our hearts are limitless. They are where the Divine makes its home, and this awareness is inscribed in our hearts, by the Divine.
Underneath all of the noise of our everyday lives, when we give ourselves the physical and spiritual space we need, we remember this reality.
It is what St. Augustine meant when he wrote “our hearts are restless until they rest in you, O God.”
When we turn down the noise and slow down the activity, we remember from where we came and to whom we belong.
And, that is exactly what winter is for.
Rest and remembering.
• Spirit Matters is a weekly column by Jerrilyn Zavada Novak that examines experiences common to the human spirit. Contact her at jzblue33@ yahoo.com.
Oglesby American Legion to hold taco night Dec. 10
Oglesby American Legion Post 237 will hold its monthly taco night from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10.
Meals of three tacos cost $6. Call 815-883-3214 with orders or questions. Due to the Christmas holiday, the Oglesby Legion will not hold a steak fry in December.
– Tom Collins
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Mendota Chamber hosts annual Christmas event
By MAKADE RIOS Shaw Local News Network correspondent
The Mendota Chamber hosted its annual “A Mendota Christmas” on Saturday along Illinois Avenue.
The event featured visits with Santa and the Grinch, free horsedrawn carriage rides, a Touch a Truck experience, police cars, fire trucks, tractors and crafts for children.
The Mendota Lions Club provided free hot chocolate and hot dogs.
Photos by MaKade Rios
TOP LEFT: Sean and Stella Arteaga sit on Santa’s lap and pose for a photo Saturday along Illinois Avenue in Mendota. TOP RIGHT: A “Polar Express” toy emerges from a tunnel Saturday at a display along Illinois Avenue in Mendota. ABOVE: Jofiel Mandujano deflects a ball away from his goal with a pool noodle Saturday along Illinois Avenue in Mendota. LEFT: Amelia Rosales blows out the flames from her marshmallow Saturday along Illinois Avenue in Mendota.
More photos from Saturday’s Mendota Chamber Christmas event
Photos by MaKade Rios
TOP LEFT: Madeline Prescott throws a hula-hoop onto an inflatable Christmas tree Saturday along Illinois Avenue in Mendota. TOP RIGHT: Olivia Coss watches a “Polar Express” toy train travel through a tunnel Saturday at a display along Illinois Avenue in Mendota. ABOVE: A “Polar Express” toy train follows its rails through a wintry wonderland Saturday at a display along Illinois Avenue in Mendota. LEFT: Creed Coss sips hot chocolate while watching a “Polar Express” toy train emerge from a tunnel Saturday at a display along Illinois Avenue in Mendota.
Ottawa Canal Association shares restoration efforts, vision for historic waterway
By BILL FRESKOS bfreskos@shawmedia.com
The Ottawa City Council got a closer look at the Illinois & Michigan Canal’s restoration efforts during a presentation by the Ottawa Canal Association on Tuesday night.
Arnie Bandstra, the association’s president and a former city engineer, shared the history of the canal’s impact on Ottawa’s growth and talked about ongoing projects to preserve the waterway.
As part of the presentation, Bandstra showed a video to council members about the efforts from the group to restore the canal over the years, including rewatering sections; landscaping with native plants; and creating recreational opportunities such as canoeing, kayaking and winter skating.
“Together with the city, we’ve been able to bring the canal back to life,” Bandstra said. “It’s more than a waterway; it’s a bridge between past and present and a gift for generations to come.”
Bandstra also noted the canal’s role in attracting visitors from across Illinois, other states and even other countries. The association hosts senior bus tours and other educational programs and events – such as Canal Day in the summer – to allow people to experience a major part of Ottawa and Illinois’ history.
The group hopes future projects, including the discovery of a buried lateral canal lock, will expand opportunities for the community.
Bandstra acknowledged that the association’s board will need continued support from the city and community volunteers to sustain these efforts.
“We have a small board – just five or six of us – and as we get older, we can’t do everything we used to,” Bandstra said. “It’s going to take a real team effort with the city and community volunteers to keep these projects moving and make the canal a lasting asset for Ottawa.”
Mayor Robb Hasty thanked the association for its work and said the city looks forward to continuing to support the canal projects.
NOTICE OF PROPOSED TAX INCREASE FOR LA MOILLE COMMUNITY UNIT SCHOOL DISTRICT #303
I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy increase for La Moille Community Unit School District #303 for 2024 will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM at La Moille Jr./Sr. High School 801 S. Main Street, La Moille, IL 61330.
Any person desiring to appear at the public hearing and present testimony to the taxing district may contact Mr. Tom Jeppson, Superintendent, at 815490-7086.
II. The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $3,220,079 plus the amount abated by the taxing district prior to extension. The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $3,623,238. This represents an 12.52% increase over the previous year.
III. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2024 were $161,312.
The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2025 are $155,913. This represents a 3.35% decrease from the previous year.
IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $3,381,391.
The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $3,779,151. This represents a 11.76% increase over the previous year.
Bill Freskos
Arnie Bandstra, president of the Ottawa Canal Association and former city engineer, speaks to the Ottawa City Council about the history and ongoing restoration of the Illinois & Michigan Canal during a presentation at the council meeting.
By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com
Stage 212 will be hosting a special entertainment event at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, when Her Majesty’s Radio Theatre presents Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol: The Ghosts of Christmas.”
Her Majesty’s Radio Theatre comes to audiences “directly” from the city of London in the year 1959, complete with surprising sound effects and audience participation. Host Nigel Bexter-Ellis (Dave Roden) and guest star Wilfred Belbram (Jeff Sudakov) bring the seasonal classic “A Christmas Carol” to life.
The two actors swiftly, joyfully and hilariously play more than 30 different characters, all while making their own live-action sound effects using the theatrical machines of Edward S. Koizumi. Tickets are $17 each and can be purchased online by visiting stage212.org or
Kyle Russell
Stage 212 will host a special entertainment event at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, when Her Majesty’s Radio Theatre presents Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol: The Ghosts of Christmas.”
IVCC welcomes new theater professor Dale Young
Director brings decades of stage experience to Oglesby campus
By MARIBETH M. WILSON mwilson@shawmedia.com
Dale J. Young has stepped into his new role as Illinois Valley Community College’s theater instructor and director, bringing decades of stage and teaching experience to the campus, according to a news release from IVCC.
Young completed his first two IVCC productions this fall: “Bottom’s on First 2.0,” which he wrote and directed, and David Auburn’s Pulitzer Prizeand Tony Award-winning play “Proof.”
Young said that he intends to build on IVCC’s theatrical legacy and expose students and audiences to a variety of performing arts.
“I hope students are curious about what it means to do these things, and I want to expose them to as many genres as possible,” he said. “I will throw in some farce and Shakespeare so that our student transfer program is wellrounded.”
Young said he is excited by all the theater options available locally or within a short drive.
“You can never have enough theater,” he said. “We can spend a lot of time talking about theater, or seeing student theater, but it is also important to see professional environments off campus.”
Theater has been central in Young’s life since his teens. His career has spanned community and professional stage productions as an actor and a director, according to the release.
“An artist’s goal is to gather life experience, and that is what I have been doing,” he said.
Young discovered teaching when he became an artist in residence at an educational nonprofit and felt just as comfortable in a classroom as on stage, according to the release.
“[The instructor] said she knew I would be teaching, but she had never told me that. Still, if you want to learn your craft, be a teacher. Teaching has
Dr. Dale J. Young has stepped into his new role as Illinois Valley Community College’s theater instructor and director, bringing decades of stage and teaching experience to the campus, IVCC said in a news release.
been amazing, and it is fascinating to watch people grow and expand their experience,” he said.
Young earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from DePaul University’s Theatre School in Chicago, a master’s degree in expressive therapies in Massachusetts and a doctorate in theater in Ohio.
Playwriting is another creative avenue for Young.
“If I am not making stuff, I am not me. I was always making stuff – always using a hammer and saw or painting,” he said.
As hobbies, he still carves in stone or wood and is a devoted cyclist and outdoorsman.
Young said that looks forward to expanding theater opportunities and the student theater community, adding that community colleges are an ideal stage to do both.
“People have a dream to be performers but do not know where to start, and two-year colleges are a great place for that,” he said. “What I love about theater is that the theater will accept everyone who is looking for a community and has a warm heart. People deserve a place to feel safe and to be part of a community.”
Photo provided by Peggy Schneider
LA SALLE COUNTY GRAND JURY INDICTMENTS
A La Salle County grand jury convened Dec. 2 and returned the following indictments:
Christina M. Colburn, 39, of Aurora (aggravated driving under the influence, driving on a revoked license)
Brenden M. Ortman, 20, of Streator (unlawful possession of a weapon, aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon, aggravated possession of a weapon while wearing body armor)
Debbie A. Sampson, 66, of rural Marseilles (unlawful possession of a controlled substance)
Jocelyn R. Bennett, 28, of rural Ottawa (unlawful possession of a controlled substance)
Monica M. Mackey, 33, of Peru (unlawful delivery of a controlled substance)
Morgan T. McKenzie, 29, of Ottawa (unlawful possession of a controlled substance, two counts of unlawful purchase of a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of contraband in a penal institution)
Deandre J. Williams, 28, of Chicago (unlawful possession of a firearm by a repeat felony offender, unlawful possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, obstructing justice)
Angel G. Reyna, 26, of Cicero (unlawful possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, obstructing justice)
Tammie N. Snow, 40, of Mendota (unlawful possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver)
Wesley C. Coon, 20, La Salle (two counts of aggravated battery)
Ramone X. Gordon, 20, of Harperswoods, Michigan (retail theft)
Rodney C. Rowe, 58, of Sauk Village
(unlawful possession of cannabis)
Arturo Hermosillo, 41, of La Salle (unlawful possession of a controlled substance, criminal damage to property)
Kelly Neill, 56, of rural Oglesby (aggravated battery, mob action)
Todd S. Lane, 54, of La Salle (aggravated battery, mob action)
Chad C. Talbot, 54, of Peru (aggravated battery, mob action)
Joseph W. Cartwright, 49, of La Salle (three counts of dissemination of child sex abuse material)
Jason W. Pruitt, 54, of Streator (unlawful possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver)
Ryan W. Arroyo, 39, of Streator (four counts of driving on a revoked license)
Craig D. Turner, 35, of Chicago (aggravated unlawful use of a weapon)
Troy A. Reynolds, 47, of rural Ottawa (domestic battery)
Jason E. Mast, 42, of Earlville (dissemination of child sex abuse material)
Dylan P. Chaney, 30, of Ottawa (unlawful possession of a controlled substance)
Cassandra N. Barnes, 42, of Ottawa (unlawful possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver)
Jessica L. Flanery, 43, of Ransom (aggravated battery, criminal neglect of a person with a disability, unlawful possession of a controlled substance)
Arthuro N. Fabila, 43, of Ottawa (driving on a revoked license)
Ian D. Buchanan, 32, of Marseilles (retail theft)
Barbra A. Quigley, 43, of Marseilles (unlawful possession of a controlled substance)
NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE FOR MENDOTA ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS: COMMUNITY CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT #289
I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy increase for County of LaSalle School District #289 for 2025 will be held on December 18, 2025 at 6:30pm at 1806 Guiles Ave, Mendota, IL 61342
Any person desiring to appear at the public hearing and present testimony to the taxing district may contact K. Bradley Cox, Superintendent, 1806 Guiles Ave, Mendota, IL 61342, 815-539-7631.
II. The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $7,715,843.
The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $8,709,304. This represents a 12.89% increase over the previous year.
III. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2024 were $1,469,737.
The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2025 are $1,540,750. This represents a 4.83% increase over the previous year.
IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $9,185,581.
The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $10,250,054. This represents a 11.59% increase over the previous year.
V. The total property tax rate for 2024 was 2.867.
The projected total property tax rate for 2025 is 2.993. This would represent a 4.39% increase over the previous year.
Adrift Wellness opens, Nonie’s Bakery & Cafe closes, One River Zen buys former Times building
Stephanie Jaquins EYES ON ENTERPRISE
Adrift Wellness has been open since October and owner Jeriann Lamb said her appointment book is pretty full.
Previously, she managed a marijuana dispensary and became aware of the number of people who were seeking alternative medicine. She knew the market existed for light therapy that can help a slew of conditions.
Adrift has one machine – a whole body photobiomodulation.
“Photo is light, bio is cellular, and modulation is change so you’re working on the cellular system in the body to rejuvenate yourself,” Lamb said, adding the technology is FDA cleared and medical strength. She knows of only four others in use in Illinois.
“The machine itself, I would say, is the sports car of red light therapy,” Lamb said.
Red Light Therapy promotes collagen production, reduces wrinkles and improves skin texture. It’s effective for treating acne, scars and signs of aging.
Near-Infrared Light Therapy enhances deep tissue healing, reduces inflammation and improves blood circulation. Green Light Therapy reduces hyperpigmentation and improves skin tone.
Sessions are 20 minutes. Clients come in for pain management, muscle recovery, and chronic diseases such as Lyme and fibromyalgia.
Lamb may add more red light technology in the future.
“There’s several options with the red light but right now I’m established with the one. There’s plenty of room to grow here. There are five other service rooms so I anticipate that we will be expanding.”
Some options she’d consider are a sauna, Cocoon Wellness Pod, vibration sound therapy, Reiki, and water massage.
Adrift Wellness, 617 Columbus St., is open by appointment only and can be reached at 815-343-6072 or adriftwellness.com.
Utica cafe closes, announces sale of business
After almost 11 years, Nonie’s Bakery & Café in Utica has closed. Its last
day of business was Nov. 23.
“Deb and I are hanging up our aprons and putting away our rolling pin and grill spatula. We are not closing because of a lack of business, a lack of help, or due to ill health for any reason. We were approached by a party that made us a reasonable offer and we decided to take it while we were still on top,” read a statement posted to the business’s Facebook page by co-owner Scott Novak.
Scott and Debbie Novak thanked their staff and customers for their support.
Reimbursement is offered for remaining gift card balances. Customers are asked to message the business on Facebook or email noniesbakerycafe@gmail.com with their gift card number, name, phone number, and the remaining balance. Deadline to redeem is Wednesday, Dec. 24.
One River Zen to acquire the former Times building
One River Zen, a Soto Zen Buddhist temple and community organization, announced the pending purchase of the former Ottawa Times building at 110 W. Jefferson St.
Closing is expected within the next two weeks, marking a major step forward in the temple’s efforts to expand meditation programs, service initiatives, and inclusive support for families across the Illinois Valley.
The project is being led by Sensei Michael Brunner, founding teacher and Abbot of One River Zen, with Rev. Vanessa Roddam, co-founder and president of David’s Clubhouse Outreach. David’s Clubhouse provides neurodiversity-affirming play, learning and family support programs for autistic children and their caregivers.
“This new space allows us to hold more of the community through new and diverse programming,” Roddam said in a press release. “We will be able to expand David’s Clubhouse and deepen our support for autistic children, their families, and the broader Ottawa community.”
Once the acquisition is finalized, One River Zen plans to establish:
• David’s Clubhouse, expanding autism-affirming programming along with a community play area open to all children, where proceeds directly support the core mission of David’s Club-
house Outreach
• Karuna Food Pantry, continuing and expanding its work supporting local households experiencing food insecurity
• Daily meditation, mindfulness classes, and retreats with increased capacity
• Community gathering rooms for workshops, events and outreach programming
• The new center will help One River Zen serve a wider range of needs while continuing its growth since arriving in Ottawa in 2021.
“Our work has always been rooted in showing up for our community,” Brunner said. “This new location strengthens that commitment and opens the door to even more ways we can support the people of Ottawa.”
Currently, One River Zen offers meditation instruction, koan study, community service programs, and inclusive outreach designed to support individuals and families throughout the Illinois Valley.
If you have a tip to share for Eyes on Enterprise, email newsroom@mywebtimes.com.
Stephanie Jaquins
Adrift Wellness has been open since October and owner Jeriann Lamb said her appointment book is pretty full.
NORTHBROOK MIDDLE SCHOOL HONOR ROLL
Northbrook Middle School in Mendota recently listed its honor roll for the first trimester of the 2025-26 school year.
High honor roll
Fifth grade: Raelynn Albers, Ariana Arteaga, Malia Aska, Waylon Beck, Jaxon Brown, Marshal Brown, Nayeli Carbajal, Brynlee Carden, Liam Christmann, Ruby Diaz Santos, Michael Dykstra, Evalyn Eslinger, Caiden German, Luis Granados, Lillian Hansen, Gracie Jomant, Logan Jones, Ava Kelly, Layla Martinez, Abel Olivas, Isaiah Orozco, Gwendolyn Pecher, Mia Phillips, Grace Piskie, Daniel Ramirez, Isabel Reyes, Julian Rojas, Gulianna Salinas, Mia Sharp, German Toribio, Lyla Trumper, Jacob Verna, Rosalynn Wheeler, Kinsley Wofford
Sixth grade: Daniella Arteaga, Emilio Arteaga, Jude Borelli, Jersie Carr, Victor Correa, Harrison Coss, Gabriella Diaz, Aubree Dinges, Peter Dunfrund, Ella Escatel, Nina Escatel, Nikki Figueroa, Aubrey Gambrel, Triniti Garcia, Addison Gaspar, Faelan Hagy, Emerson Kent,
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Ottawa murder suspect to argue self-defense
By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com
Nicolaus Phillips will stand trial March 5 for the fatal shooting of an Ottawa man. Newly filed court records show that he plans to argue self-defense. Phillips, 26, of Spring Valley appeared Wednesday in La Salle County Circuit Court for a status hearing on his pending case of first-degree murder. He faces at least 45 years in prison if convicted of the 2023 shooting of Eric Clements outside Clements’ Ottawa home.
Phillips’ lawyer disclosed in open court that he plans to file several pretrial motions, but one filing is in: Public Defender Ryan Hamer will argue that Phillips did indeed shoot Clements, but he was justified in using “force in defense of person.”
Chief Judge H. Chris Ryan Jr. scheduled the bench trial (Phillips had previously waived his right to a jury trial) to begin March 5.
Phillips and alleged cohort Chastity Furar were identified as suspects after home surveillance near Clements’ residence spotted a suspicious vehicle. Although Phillips is accused of firing the fatal shot, both are charged with murder. Furar is alleged to have supplied Phillips with the weapon and driven the getaway vehicle.
Furar will next appear in court Jan. 16 for a status hearing.
Clements was one of seven people killed over a 20-month span – believed to be a record for La Salle County – resulting in seven people charged with murder.
Three have been convicted: Malcolm Whitfield and Tyler Skerett of Streator and Logan Petre of Marseilles.
Two others, aside from Phillips and Furar, still are awaiting trial. Joshua Casey is charged in a Streator strangulation case, and Ronald Martin Jr. is charged in a double shooting in Sheridan.
University Park woman enters blind plea to theft of COVID-19 funds
Ebony Green claimed to have run Ottawa day care service, will be sentenced Jan. 29
By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com
She claimed to run a day care service in Ottawa with earnings of $100,000. Ebony Green was actually a hairstylist earning a fraction of that. Yet she got a COVID-19 relief loan for nearly $20,000. Green, 29, of University Park appeared Thursday in La Salle County Circuit Court and entered a blind plea to theft, a Class 1 felony. Additional charges were dismissed.
In exchange for her plea, La Salle County prosecutors agreed to recommend no more than five years in prison when she is sentenced Jan. 29 before Circuit Judge Michelle A. Vescogni.
Green is one of six people facing felony charges after the Illinois Department of Revenue flagged some questionable applications for COVID-19 relief funds across the state.
Two of the six accused now have pleaded guilty.
Assistant La Salle County State’s
vice in Ottawa. In a companion filing, she disclosed earnings of $106,600. Based on those representations she secured a $20,830 loan.
However, other documents procured after investigators began searching for fraudulent cases revealed a separate disclosure. Green said in the disclosure that she was a hairstylist earning about 10% of what she’d claimed to make in the day care business.
Green will have an opportunity to make a statement when she stands for sentencing.
By the time Green is sentenced, Vescogni will have settled on a punishment for the first of the six accused to plead. Amanda K. Rogers, 34, of Ottawa previously entered a blind plea to Class 1 theft and will be sentenced Jan. 15. Prosecutors agreed to a five-year cap on prison time in her case, as well.
Attorney Matt Kidder said in open court Thursday that had Green’s case gone to trial, then prosecutors were prepared to produce paperwork showing divergent
income disclosures.
In March of 2021, he said, Green’s signature appeared on papers saying she was the sole proprietor of a day care ser-
Rogers admitted applying for a government loan after submitting paperwork showing she owned an Ottawa business with gross profits greater than $100,000. Although Rogers later was found to own and operate no such business, the fraudulent claims resulted in her obtaining a loan for nearly $30,000. Four more suspects have pending cases.
Tom Collins Nicolaus Phillips will stand trial March 5 for the fatal shooting of an Ottawa man. Newly filed court records show he plans to argue self-defense.
Scott Anderson file photo
Assistant La Salle County State’s Attorney Laura Hall and La Salle County States Attorney Joe Navarro announced in January that charges were filed against six individuals who obtained COVID-19 relief funds under false pretenses.
ROBERT F. LYONS
Robert F. Lyons, 85, of Dimmick, Illinois, passed on 11/30/2025.
Arrangements entrusted to Mueller-Pagani Funeral home , La Salle, Il . Additional information: www.MuellerFH.com or 815-223-0096.
JOANNE SWAN
Joanne Conley Swan, 95, of Princeton, IL, passed on 12/01/2025.
Arrangements entrusted to Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments, Princeton, Il. Additional information: www.norbergfh.com.
OGLESBY’S WASHINGTON SCHOOL HONOR ROLL
Oglesby‘s Washington School released its honor and high honor rolls for the first trimester of the 2025-26 school year.
Honor roll
Sixth grade: Liam Benedetti, Michael Finnell, Robert Henry, Bram Kinzer, Carter Mann, Bentley McFadin, Payzlie Miller, Dexter Rigby and Drake Taylor
Eighth grade: Harper Green, Georgia Grosenbach, Aubrey Hale, Laiken Halm, Landen Halm, Madison Hill, Rubi Ramirez, Addison Sesto and Kensley Turczyn
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
La Salle church to offer Blue Christmas service Dec. 18
Grace United Methodist Church in La Salle will offer a Blue Christmas service at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18.
The service will allow participants to honor loved ones who have died, along with attendees experiencing grief. The church is handicapped accessible.
Grace United Methodist Church is located at 1345 Chartres St. in La Salle.
La Salle County deputies nab dozens for holiday violations
La Salle County deputies didn’t find much alcohol on the roads Thanksgiving weekend – charging only one with driving under the influence – but 20 unlucky motorists were caught speeding or using handheld devices.
Seventh grade: Logan Balestri, Mackenzie Kalita, Avery Klinefelter, Brody Kramarsic, Kash Mathesius, Ava Myers, Michael Padilla, Elliana Ramirez, Jiselle Salazar, Felix Shapiro, Lilabeth Skodachek, Lucas Straughn and Levi Zermeno
participated in the statewide “Click It or Ticket” and “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaigns from Nov. 21 to Dec. 2.
During the campaign, deputies reported 16 speeding citations and four for the use of electronic devices.
Additionally, deputies issued 13 occupant-restraint citations, 13 miscellaneous traffic citations, one DUI and one arrest for driving on a revoked license. One suspect was picked up on a warrant.
“These results reflect our commitment to a safe community,” Sheriff Adam Diss said. “Impaired is impaired, whether you use alcohol, cannabis or other drugs. Combine that with not wearing a seat belt, and the consequences can be deadly. Please buckle up, and plan a sober ride every time.”
Bishop Tylka renews Sheen Foundation advisory board
14-member board to advance canonization cause, legacy promotion
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Bishop Louis Tylka has renewed the Archbishop Fulton Sheen Foundation advisory board amid growing public interest in the venerable’s legacy and canonization cause.
The board had been inactive since the canonization process was delayed in 2019. Recent plans to renovate Sheen’s former high school, the Spalding Institute, into the Fulton Sheen Experience have sparked renewed enthusiasm for the archbishop’s legacy.
The foundation promotes the life and teachings of the venerable servant of God Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. It advances his cause for canonization under the supervision of the bishop of Peoria.
The 14-member advisory board includes scholars, medical professionals, media experts, museum directors, tourism leaders, Spalding Institute alumni and two members of the Sheen family. Members represent locations across the U.S. and Canada.
“I am so happy to have such an enthusiastic and dedicated collection of board members who share our love for Archbishop Sheen,” Msgr. Jason Gray, executive director of the Sheen Foundation, said in a news release. “Each of these nominees expressed great excitement at their appointment and look forward to working for the advancement of the cause.”
Board members include John Alves of Granbury, Texas; Pastor Ray Atwood of Oelwein, Iowa; Bill Conger of East Peoria; Paul Sheen Cunningham of Bronxville, New York; JD Dalfonso of Peoria; Oscar Delgado of Rochester, Minnesota; Sr. Judith Ann Duvall of East Peoria; Gerri Kearns of Cross River, New York; Msgr. Roger Landry of New York; Bob Manning of Peoria; Dolores Sheen of Peoria; Allan Smith of Midland, Ontario, Canada; Alicia Varela of Spring, Texas; and Dr. Louis Varela of Spring, Texas.
Tylka said he looks forward to working with the board to promote Sheen’s legacy nationally and internationally, particularly through collaboration with the Pontifical Mission Societies, which Sheen directed from 1950 to 1966.
The Fulton Sheen Experience will serve as a public destination celebrating the archbishop’s enduring legacy and inviting visitors to learn about his life and faith.
AP file photo
Bishop Fulton J. Sheen appears before parishioners April 13, 1979, at New York’s St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church. Pope Francis has approved a miracle bringing Sheen, the late American archbishop known for his revolutionary radio and TV preaching, closer to sainthood.
Skerett sentenced to 117 years
Streator man convicted in Easter Sunday shooting killed one, injured two
By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com
When offered a chance to plead for mercy, Streator killer Tyler Skerett didn’t express remorse. Instead, he told his sentencing judge that he was wrongly convicted.
“I had nothing to do with it,” the 31-year-old said Friday in La Salle County Circuit Court, adding later, “I’m not a violent person. I’ve sold drugs, but I never hurt nobody.
“It was just wrong place, wrong time, that’s it.”
Although a show of remorse wouldn’t have done him much good – his bestcase scenario was release at age 76 – the statement fell flat with Circuit Judge Michelle A. Vescogni. She sentenced him to 117 years in prison for killing Camryn Merritt in an Easter Sunday shooting that injured two others.
“I cannot find one mitigating factor,” the judge ruled, citing Skerett’s criminal history and “broad daylight” shooting as factors in aggravation. “He has zero remorse.”
Vescogni actually rejected prosecutors’ call for natural life – that is, life with no shot at parole – but instead imposed a series of consecutive prison terms, starting with 65 for first-degree murder plus additional time for the two attempted murders.
Skerett declined to testify at trial, preferring to let his lawyers try to poke holes in the state’s case against him.
Public defender Ryan Hamer had argued that there were no eyewitnesses – neither of the survivors would name their assailant – and police never retrieved a murder weapon, fingerprints or DNA tying Skerett to the scene or the Chevy Cruze from which the shots were fired.
“The state has done a fine job of telling you a story,” Hamer said, “but at the end of the day, it’s just a theory.”
Investigators found that a camera at a Clark gas station recorded the Cruze and
showed a masked man emerge from the driver’s seat. Footage recorded the day of the shooting from inside an Ottawa residence showed Skerett wearing those same clothes and with a mask lowered below his chin. Linking Skerett to the clothes and to the vehicle persuaded the jury that he was guilty of murder.
At sentencing Friday, Hamer urged the judge to consider imposing the minimum sentence of 45 years, citing Skerett’s troubled upbringing and long
struggles with alcohol and drugs.
Prosecutor Laura Hall argued for natural life, pointing out the potential for bystanders to have been killed. Hall said the shooting took place in the afternoon in downtown Streator – “The immense risk to others is shocking” –and a deterrent sentence was needed to curb the exploding volume of gun violence.
“There is no question that we have developed a gun violence epidemic in
this county,” she said.
After the hearing, La Salle County State’s Attorney Joe Navarro said he was grateful that Vescogni agreed to make an example of Skerett to deter would-be gun perpetrators.
“I’ve argued before about the need for deterrence,” Navarro said. “People say that doesn’t work. I disagree with that. I’m hopeful for the people of La Salle County, in particular of Streator, that [deterrence] does work for them.”
Scott Anderson
Tyler Skerett, 31, of Streator listens to his sentence being read Friday at the La Salle County Government Complex in Ottawa. Skerett was found guilty of first-degree murder in the Easter Sunday shooting April 20 at Streator’s business district.
Peru man charged again while on pretrial release
By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com
Before Friday, Kevin Billups of Peru was awaiting a jury trial on charges of selling cocaine. Jurors were to be selected Monday.
However, Billups accrued more criminal charges of selling drugs while on pretrial release.
The Monday trial is canceled and La Salle County prosecutors want a judge to hold Billups in La Salle County Jail until Billups is ready for his next trial setting.
He appeared Friday in La Salle County Circuit Court on two new charges of unlawful delivery of a controlled substance (cocaine), both Class X felonies.
According to newly filed court records, Billups met with confidential sources working with the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Narcotics Team on July 30 and Aug. 1. According to court records, Billups delivered about an ounce of cocaine in exchange for $1,300 on each occasion.
Prosecutors were ready to argue Friday in favor of keeping Billups detained on pretrial release, but Billups wasn’t ready. He asked for time to consult with a private attorney, and he was granted a Dec. 10 detention hearing. He’ll stay in jail at least until then.
In a filing still to be argued, prosecutors argued that Billups shouldn’t go free again in light of the new information. He also skipped a court date ahead of the now-canceled Monday trial.
La Salle County State’s Attorney Joe Navarro said he’s frustrated with the SAFE-T Act, which gives all suspects a presumption of pretrial release.
“I’m fed up,” Navarro said.
IVCC opens a 2-month window for $350,000 in scholarship funds
By MARIBETH M. WILSON mwilson@shawmedia.com
Current and incoming Illinois Valley Community College students can apply for more than $350,000 in foundation scholarships through Feb. 5 using a single online application, IVCC said in a news release.
A new online program implemented last year streamlines the annual application process.
The software makes the process easy, and since it only happens once a year, foundation Executive Director Tracy Beattie recommended that students take time now to apply. Scholarships will be awarded in May and applied to the 2026-27 school year.
Awards range from $500 to $4,500 and are available in almost every area of study, but not all awards are tied to specific disciplines.
More than 80 general scholarships are available to students who are undecided or in an area of study that does not offer a distinct scholarship, according to the release.
Students are not required to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid to be eligible for an IVCC Foundation scholarship.
The link to apply for scholarships is open through Feb. 5 at ivcc.awardspring.com.
For information, call scholarship specialist Donna Swiskoski at 815-2240551.
Kevin C. Billups Jr.
Illinois Corn Growers honors industry boosters
By AGRINEWS STAFF editorial@agrinews-pubs.com
Several individuals and a family were honored for their contributions in promoting and supporting corn farmers during the Illinois Corn Growers Association’s annual meeting Nov. 25.
Honorees included Whalen Farms, Randy Stauffer Stewardship Award; Laura Lant, Mike Plumer Environmental Excellence Award; and Mark Schneidewind, World of Corn Award.
Others recognized during ICGA’s annual meeting were Angela Tin, Ethanol Award, and Tom Doran, Excellence in Media Award.
Ethanol Award
A longtime champion of clean air and alternative fuels, Tin is being honored for her leadership at the American Lung Association of Illinois to promote corn-based ethanol as a cleaner-burning fuel alternative.
At the Lung Association, Tin helped secure government and private grant funding to implement projects that reduce petroleum fuel usage and advance alternative fuels, supporting both public health and renewable fuel goals.
In selecting Tin, the ICGA recognizes her contribution to advancing public health and air quality improvements, while championing corn-based ethanol as a domestic fuel alternative.
“We are delighted to recognize Angela Tin with the Ethanol Award,” said Mark Bunselmeyer, ICGA president.
“Her work has bridged public health, environmental protection and fuel innovation, advancing corn-based ethanol in Illinois in a way that benefits farmers, consumers and air quality alike.”
Tin’s career spans environmental and health program leadership.
She began at the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, where she served as policy adviser to the Illinois EPA director.
In this role, she served on the implementation team for Illinois’ Emissions Reduction Market System – the nation’s first open market emissions trading program.
After moving to the American Lung Association of Illinois, she led initiatives to reduce indoor air pollution, including radon abatement and healthy homes, and to advance alternative fuel use to improve lung health.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in physiology from Southern Illinois University and a master’s degree in cell biology from the University of Illinois Springfield.
ICGA’s Ethanol Award recognizes professionals who have been active in the ethanol industry over a lifetime or have contributed in a major way to growth in the ethanol market.
Excellence In Media Award
Tom Doran is a field editor for Illinois AgriNews.
The award is presented annually to an individual who promotes Illinois agriculture, particularly IL Corn and its farmers, through their coverage in traditional media or their engagement on social media.
“Tom Doran has spent his entire career helping Illinois farmers tell their stories with accuracy, respect and heart,” Bunselmeyer said.
“His deep understanding of agriculture and genuine connection with farmers have made him a trusted voice for our industry. We’re honored to recognize his lifelong commitment to agricultural journalism.”
With a career spanning more than 50
years, Doran has been a steadfast advocate for rural communities and the people who feed and fuel Illinois.
He began his journalism journey in the mid-1970s as a photographer and darkroom technician at the Dwight Star & Herald, later becoming editor and general manager of the Star Newspapers group in Dwight.
Since joining AgriNews in 2005, Doran has covered a wide range of topics, including crop production, conservation and legislative issues, always focusing on the farmers behind the headlines.
Doran’s work has earned multiple honors throughout his career, including several Illinois Press Association awards in photography and writing, the Illinois Soybean Association Excellence in Media Award, the Illinois Leadership Council for Agricultural Education Excellence in Media Award and the Livingston County Soil and Water Conservation District Media Award.
He is also an honorary lifetime member of the Land of Lincoln Purebred Livestock Breeders Association.
Reflecting on his decades in journalism, Doran said: “Every day is a good day, but some days are even better. My
favorite part of this career is visiting with farmers and hearing stories about their farms and families, whether they raise thousands of acres of corn and soybeans or a few acres of vegetables.”
“I’m proud to be part of a media community that supports one another and tells the true stories of agriculture,” he said.
Doran, a graduate of SIU Carbondale with a degree in communications, resides in Odell with his wife, Peg, who recently retired after 36 years of teaching at St. Paul Grade School.
They have three children: Maureen, a teacher at Genoa-Kingston High School; Michael, a police officer in Normal; and Madelyn, a teacher at Nauvoo Elementary School.
The Media Achievement Award recognizes outstanding communication about agriculture by a member of the media.
The award honors professionals who provide accurate, compelling and consistent coverage of the agricultural industry, helping share the stories of farmers and the importance of agriculture with the broader public. Candidates may represent broadcast, print, or social media platforms.
Photo provided by Lindsay Croke
Among those honored by the Illinois Corn Growers Association at its annual meeting are: Laura Lant (from left), who won the Mike Plumer Environmental Excellence Award; Tom Doran, who won the Excellence in Media Award; Mark Schneidewind, who won the World of Corn Award; and Angela Tin, who won the Ethanol Award.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Ottawa man gets 30 years for predatory sexual assault
An Ottawa man pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a minor Friday and was sentenced to 30 years.
Michael W. Hughes, 42, emerged from closed-door discussions at La Salle County Circuit Court and entered a guilty plea to predatory criminal sexual assault, a Class X felony punishable by six to 30 years in prison.
The sentence is subject to the state Truth in Sentencing Act, requiring certain felons to serve at least 85% of their prison time.
Hughes declined an opportunity to address La Salle County Circuit Judge Michelle A. Vescogni before sentencing.
The charge was filed after Ottawa police were alerted to incidents reported to have occurred in summer 2021.
Peru defense attorney George Leynaud
declined to comment on Friday’s disposition, except to say Hughes’ plea enabled him to avoid a prospective life sentence.
– Tom Collins
IVCC spring 2026 tuition due Dec. 10
Illinois Valley Community College students must pay spring tuition by Dec. 10 or risk being dropped from all classes.
Students can secure their classes by paying tuition in full or setting up a payment plan. Those who are dropped must re-enroll but are not guaranteed the same schedule or classes.
Financial aid recipients should notify the college cashier to apply any aid and defer tuition payments.
Students can arrange payment plans, make payments and view class schedules online through the IVCC Self-Service portal at ivcc-ss.colleague.elluciancloud. com/student/courses. For information, call the IVCC cashier’s office at 815-2240213 or visit ivcc.edu/payment.
– Shaw Local News Network
LA SALLE COUNTY MARRIAGE LICENSES, NOV. 14 TO 28
Here is the list of couples who applied for La Salle County marriage licenses from Nov. 14 through Nov. 28.
• Joseph David Lowry of Ottawa and Yesenia Martha Lemos of Ottawa
• Armando Chavira of Marseilles and Elvia Gonzalez Torrijos of Marseilles
• Joseph Clarke Williamson of West Chicago and Emily Marie Bove of Carol Stream
• John Allen Choate III of Peru and
Kendra Jo King of Peru
• Ky Thoai Dinh Le of Peru and Thanh Thao Thi Nguyen of Peru
• Gavin Lee Sustek of Wenona and Lainy
Jane Boawn of Wenona
• Isaiah Luis Contreras of Ottawa and Jaelyn Elizabeth Tipple of Ottawa
• Charles William Uphouse of Streator and Nicole Ashley Rogers of Streator
• Mohammed Wajdi Shukri of Oglesby and Jordan Lynn Rose-Fleming of Oglesby
Michael W. Hughes
PUZZLES
ACROSS
1. Spiritual leaders
7. A type of solution
13. Fortified wine
14. Edible mollusk
16. They precede C
17. A way to compare
19. Government lawyer
20. “Game of Thrones” actor Ciaran
22. The eighth month (abbr.)
23. Very willing
25. __ ex Machina
26. Makes happy
28. Type of berry
29. A doctrine
30. Popular Dodge truck model
31. Dekagram
33. Naturally occurring solid
34. Company officer
36. Villains
38. Cricket frogs
40. Influential German psychologist
41. Endured
43. A female domestic
44. You can get stuck in one
45. Cigarette (slang)
47. Fiber optics network
48. Group of blood disorders (abbr.)
51. Employee stock ownership plan
53. Belonging to the bottom layer
55. Sound
56. MLB legend Hank
58. Very attractive person
59. Late beloved sportscaster
Craig
60. South Dakota
61. Mocking
64. Symbol for gold
65. Longtime Braves pitcher Julio
67. Humor
69. Shawl
70. Preliminary patient
assessment DOWN
1. Animal disease
2. Commercial
3. Necklace material
4. Containers
5. A way to save for your future
6. Colorado Heisman winner Rashaan
7. Dipped down
8. Head injury (abbr.)
Lay about
Intestinal
Opposite of yes
Caused to be loved
Spiritual leader of Islam
Businesslike
Not in
Number above the line in a fraction 24. An animal with its own day
Pouch
27. Swedish krona
30. Start over
32. Field flowers
35. Fourteen
37. A visual way to interact with a computer
38. Up-to-date
39. Campaigns
42. Touch lightly
43. “Boardwalk Empire” actress Gretchen
46. Violent seizure of property
47. Supporter of the Pope
49. Anxiety
50. Body fluid
52. One who’s faking it
54. Title of respect
55. Chilean city
57. City in central Japan
59. Silk garment
62. A form of dance
63. Automobile
66. The man
68. Justice Dept. head honcho
Bears’ late-game magic runs out in loss at Packers
By MICHAL DWOJAK mdwojak@shawmedia.com
History seemed poised to repeat itself once again Sunday night at Lambeau Field.
As quarterback Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears offense lined up at the Green Bay Packers 14-yard line, trailing by seven points with less than half a minute left in the game, it felt inevitable that the Bears would score to tie or take a late lead. Chicago had pulled off the improbable five times this season. What was one more?
But as center Drew Dalman snapped the ball and Williams rolled to his left and lofted a ball up to tight end Cole Kmet, it wasn’t the Bears celebrating once again as the play ended. Packers cornerback Keisean Nixon leapt, snagged the pass and landed down with the ball in the end zone.
The Packers spoiled the Bears’ comeback to win 28-21.
“It’s frustration,” Williams said about the feeling after the game inside Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. “Just because we shot ourselves in the foot more than anything. I think that’s where the frustration comes from.”
Chicago seemed like it was set to overcome a bunch of shots in the foot in a game between the top two teams in the NFC North entering Sunday afternoon. The Bears overcame a 10-point deficit midway through the fourth quarter and needed to do it again when Green Bay took a 28-21 lead with 3:32 left in the game.
It seemed inevitable that it would happen. Williams showed off that lategame clutch gene once again when he completed a 27-yard pass to rookie wide receiver Luther Burden III. He followed that up with a 24-yard pass to Devin Duvernay that got the ball to the Packers 23 with two minutes left in the game.
Then the Bears started to either play for the tie or the win. With all three time-outs, Chicago moved the ball nine total yards over three plays before calling its first with 27 seconds left in the game, setting up that fourth-and-1 situation.
“We got a lot of options there,” Bears head coach Ben Johnson said. “Don’t know exactly who’s gonna pop necessarily. But between the options that we have and then Caleb using his legs, was
hopeful we could find a way to get a yard there.”
Williams snapped the ball and rolled to his left. Running back D’Andre Swift ran at the 13, which marked a first down, but was followed by three defenders while DJ Moore ran not too far behind him. Williams also didn’t have enough space to pick it up using his legs as Packers defensive lineman Kingsley Enagbare chased him and took away a lane.
For a moment, Williams thought he could loft the ball up to Kmet. But Williams didn’t put enough on it and threw the game-ending interception.
“I tried to give him a big-boy ball, try to let him go up for it because I ended up seeing [Nixon] starting to sprint,” Williams said. “I tried to slow him up and give him a chance. In those moments, it’s a gotta have it moment. They had a guy trailing me and didn’t feel like I could go get it myself. Just got to give Cole a better shot at it. Next time, just extend him a little bit more, kind of lead. But in those moments, you want to put the ball in play and trust your guy or try
to have your guy go make a play. Just got to give him a better ball.”
Johnson compared the pass to the one Williams completed to Kmet for a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 13. Although it wasn’t the same exact personnel and play call, Williams made a similar cross-body throw on the run for the score.
He just underthrew the ball this time.
“Not tough at all,” Williams said. “Just need to give him a better ball. Thinking too much.”
It was a similar result for the Bears against the Packers. Sunday was Chicago’s 12th loss in their last 13 meetings against Green Bay. But Sunday felt different.
The Bears came back despite not playing their best football for much of the first half. A 14-3 halftime deficit felt larger than just 11 points. But Bears players after the game said they didn’t they could win Sunday like they had in the past. Unlike previous teams, they put themselves in a spot to fulfill another comeback.
“The resilience in the group is great,” Kmet said. “Because I’ve seen teams that I’ve been part of here fold at halftime like that, when things aren’t going so well. So to come out like that and play the way we did. I thought was was good on our end and things that we got to carry going forward.”
Chicago won’t have too much time to lament on Sunday. The loss dropped the Bears to the No. 7 seed in the NFC playoffs, half a game behind the Packers for the North lead.
The Bears will have four games left this season to qualify for the playoffs in Johnson’s first season. One of those games will be against the Packers at Soldier Field in Week 16.
So while Sunday was a tough way to lose, the Bears weren’t deterred after a failed comeback.
“There’s still a lot out in front of us, though,” Kmet said. “The whole year is still in front of us and there’s still a lot to play for, whether it’s playoff seeding. I mean, there’s a lot out still in front of us.”
Matt Ludtke
Green Bay Packers cornerback Keisean Nixon (25) intercepts a pass against Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (85) during the second half Sunday in Green Bay, Wis.
BUREAU COUNTY, ILLINOIS
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2025 AT 1:00 PMCT
246.5 SURVEYED ACRES • 3 TRACTS
Tracts 1 & 2 are located 2 miles south, and Tract 3 is located on the southwest corner of LaMoille IL, which is 8 miles west of Mendota, IL or 17 miles northwest of Peru, IL. The land is further described as being located in Sections 25 & 36, T18N-R10E, La Moille Township, Bureau County, Illinois.
Farmers & investors, take advantage of this offering of high quality, productive soils, with future development possibilities!
PETERSON FAMILY FARM
Princeton outlasts BV in double OT thriller at Colmone Classic
Hall, Fieldcrest, Mendota also win openers
By KEVIN HIERONYMUS khieronymus@shawmedia.com
The Colmone Classic is the only place for Princeton and Bureau Valley basketball fans to watch their teams play out their rivalry this year.
They sure got their money’s worth Saturday at Hall High School.
Bureau Valley freshman Carson Gruber hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer at the end of regulation to force one overtime period, only to have Princeton senior Ryan Jagers hit one of his own to extend the game to a second OT.
The Tigers overcame an early 3-point Storm lead in the second OT, outscoring BV 10-5 in the final two minutes to earn an 86-83 thriller.
Princeton coach Jason Smith, who previously coached at Bureau Valley, said it was the kind of game you expect between the rival Tigers and Storm.
“Both teams go at it and play hard,” Smith said. “It was just two competitive teams going at it, and some team had to win and some team had to lose. Fortunately we got the win.”
BV coach Jason Marquis was glad to get to play the Tigers again at the Colmone Classic since they are no longer scheduled to meet.
“It’s nice we get to play it over here at Hall. Appreciate the opportunity to donate all that gate to another school other than ours,” he said.
Two-time defending champion Fieldcrest opened its title defense with a 70-40 win over newcomer Galva in the first game of the day.
Hall opened with a 54-36 against Rock Falls in the Red Pool opener, while Mendota downed St. Bede 88-64 in the nightcap in the Black Pool.
The tournament resumes Monday with Bureau Valley playing IVC at 5 p.m. and Putnam County vs. Rock Falls at 8 p.m.
Princeton 86, Bureau Valley 83: BV freshman Gruber introduced himself to the Colmone Classic crowd with a gamehigh 37 points, believed to be a tournament record for a freshman. It was his 3-pointer at the end of regulation that was the big one and gave the Storm new life.
“It’s nice to see him show up in some
five in double figures with Mason netting 19, Mucha and Jagers scoring 17 each, Gavin Lanham 14 and Oester 11.
Gruber netted his 37 on 12-of-29 shooting from the field (9 of 23 on 3s), while Logan Philhower and Ryan Birkey had 10 each for the Storm (0-4), who opened up a 13-2 lead to start the game.
Hall 54, Rock Falls 35: On a night the Red Devils’ offense “stunk,” Hall coach Mike Filippini said their defense shined.
“We struggled, missing a lot of easy shots. Normally we’re a better 3-point shooting team than that,” Filippini said. “We talked about how good teams win with their defense. We gave up 35 points in a varsity basketball game. We’re really happy with that. They’re playing their butts off on defense.”
The Red Devils (4-1), who will play PC at 8 p.m. Tuesday, placed two in double figures with Braden Curran (16) and Chace Sterling (12) with Noah Plym chipping in nine.
Cooper South led the Rockets (1-6) with nine points.
Mendota 88, St. Bede 64 : The Trojans built a 40-24 halftime lead on the way to the 24-point victory.
The Tillman brothers led the highcharged Trojans offense with 39 points between them with Cole netting 21 and Aden 18. Also for Mendota, Dane Doyle had 14 points and Oliver Munoz 13.
“I thought we came out with really good defensive intensity,” Mendota coach Steve Wasmer said. “We shared the ball really well at times and were able to speed the game up which was a point of emphasis. And we were able to find Aden Tillman for some open 3s. That makes us pretty hard to defend when he’s making shots. And our guys do a great job of finding him.
big moments,” Marquis said. “That’s what happens when you put in that much time in the gym. Those shots where all us spectators see in big moments feel like a lot of other shots taken in the empty gym. There was never a question among his teammates or coaches that he belongs, and now others are going to realize it, too.”
The Storm jumped to a 72-66 with just one under a minute left in the first OT. The Tigers rallied with two free throws each by Jack Oester and Jackson Mason before Jagers buried a game-tying 3-pointer from the left corner for another OT.
Princeton freshman Julian Mucha sparked the Tigers in the second OT
with six points, including back-to-back scoring drives with a left-handed finish and a reverse layup to give the Tigers an 85-79 edge with less than 40 seconds to play.
Gruber hit 1 of 2 free throws and then a 3-pointer with 6.7 left to make it 86-83, but the Storm got no closer.
“Just a lot of grit from our guys,” Smith said.
Disappointed with the loss, Marquis was pleased how hard his Storm played.
“Hard things are good learning experiences. Have to find a way to take something that’s disappointing in the moment and find good in it,” Marquis said.
The Tigers (2-4), who led as much as 13 points at 52-39 late in the third, placed
“I got to see St. Bede [Friday]) and coach [Brian] Hanson has them playing really hard so I knew it was going to be a battle. They are gonna win a lot of games because of that.”
St. Bede’s Gino Ferrari led all scorers with 22 points while Gus Burr had 16 and Geno Dinges chipped in 11.
The Bruins (4-2) return to action at 5 p.m. Tuesday vs. Eureka; the Trojans (3-1) face the Hornets at 7 p.m. Wednesday.
Fieldcrest 70, Galva 40 : Kash Klendworth scored 21 points, Eli Gerdes had 17 and Layten Gerdes added 15 as the Knights rolled in Saturday’s opener.
The Knights (3-0) take on Kewanee at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Mike Vaughn
Princeton’s Jack Oester drives on Bureau Valley’s Logan Philhower in Saturday’s Colmone Classic action at Hall High School. The Tigers won 86-83 in double OT.
Kaneland’s shooting, defense too much for Mendota
By KEVIN CHLUM kchlum@shawmedia.com
With 6-foot-9 junior Jeffrey Hassan in the middle, all-state point guard Marshawn Cocroft and several talented shooters, the Kaneland boys basketball team is difficult to defend.
The Knights displayed all their options Tuesday.
Hassan scored all his 11 points in Kaneland’s 26-point second quarter, and the Knights drained six 3-pointers in the third quarter to pull away for a 91-50 victory over Mendota in a nonconference game in Mendota.
“We have some guys who can shoot the ball, and when you have Jeffrey inside, they have to kind of pick their poison,” Kaneland coach Ernie Colombe said. “If they come in to help ... Jeff, we kick it to shooters. When we get in a rhythm, we’re tough to guard. You throw in we’ve got an all-state point guard, we can put pressure on teams. I thought we just kept attacking them, and our guys executed tonight.”
MENDOTA SPORTS ROUNDUP
The Knights led 15-9 at the end of the first quarter before starting to pull away in the second.
Kaneland held the Trojans scoreless for the first three minutes of the second quarter. Meanwhile, the Knights got a fast-break basket from Brian Edwards, a bucket from Isaiah Gipson and a threepoint play by Hassan to push their lead to 22-9.
“We started playing harder on defense,” Hassan said. “We started playing more as a team. Once we started racking up more stops, we started to connect on offense and started to finish.”
Hassan threw down a dunk on an alley-oop inbounds pass and had two more dunks in the quarter as Kaneland’s lead ballooned to 41-22 at halftime.
“On offense, I just tried to play with a harder motor,” Hassan said about his second-quarter play. “I called for the ball. I just played to my strengths.”
Out of the break, the Knights got hot from outside as Jalen Carter and Con-
nor Kimme knocked down back-to-back 3s to extend the lead to 20.
Evan Frieders, Cocroft and Chase Kunzer also hit long-range shots in the third as Kaneland took a 69-39 lead into the fourth quarter to start the running clock.
“We shoot a ton in practice,” Colombe said. “That’s what we believe in. The kids like seeing the ball go through the hoop. Our philosophy has been you can get kids to play really hard on defense if they’re getting better on offense. It’s tough to ask a kid to go play defense and then they never get a shot. So we want all our guys ready to shoot the ball if they’re going to play that hard on defense. It’s kind of their reward for playing hard defense.”
Mendota coach Steve Wasmer said he wasn’t too concerned about a lopsided loss to Kaneland, which is ranked No. 5 in Class 3A by Nesto Hoops.
“I told the guys in the locker room that I’m not going to lose a lot of sleep about it, and nor should they,” Wasmer said. “That’s a really, really good 3A
team that could make a state run. I’m not real worried about the things we did. There’s a lot of little things we need to take care of and coach. Hopefully, they’ll be coachable tomorrow, and I think they will. It’s a good group of kids.”
The Trojans fell behind 13-2 but went on a seven-point run to close within 13-9.
“I told our guys that’s the best team we’re going to play all year and it’s not really close,” Wasmer said. “It was good for our kids to see the physicality, to see the ball movement they had and to see how they got after it defensively. The best thing I think happened tonight is we played in a really physical game and we didn’t back down. The first quarter, I think we matched them physicality wise, and then we just got tired.”
Cocroft had a team-high 14 points for Kaneland (2-0), while Hassan, Carter and Gipson each had 11.
Cole Tillman scored a game-high 19 points for Mendota (2-1), while Dane Doyle added 10.
Mendota girls basketball beats Earlville Red Raiders
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Girls Basketball
Mendota 49, Earlville 33: Mariyah Elam had 19 points, six rebounds, five steals and two blocks to lead the Trojans to a nonconference victory Wednesday in Earlville.
Karson Doyle had a double-double with 10 points, 10 rebounds and seven steals for Mendota (2-5).
Hall 55, Mendota 28: Caroline Morris scored 16 points Monday to help the Red Devils to a victory in Spring Valley
in their Three Rivers Conference East Division opener.
Charlie Pellegrini had 15 points for Hall (3-2, 1-0), while Natalia Zamora added 13 points.
Mariyah Elam had 14 points, 10 rebounds, six steals and three blocks for Mendota (1-5, 0-1).
Newman 82, Mendota 14: Kiah Davidson had four points as the Trojans lost a Three Rivers Conference East Division game in Sterling.
Boys Wrestling
Seneca 58, Mendota 17: Trayvon Rucker (138 pounds) and Payton
Gagliardo (215) won by fall for the Trojans as they dropped a nonconference match in Seneca.
Komen Denault won by 18-2 technical fall for Mendota.
Girls Bowling Oregon Invitational
La Salle-Peru racked up 5,211 pins Saturday at Plum Hollow Lanes to win the Oregon Hawk Invitational for the third year in a row.
Kamryn Oscepinski led the Cavaliers as she placed third individually with a six-game series of 1,199.
Leah Ricci (1,050) and Kaitlyn Miller
(1,048) placed ninth and 10th, respectively, for L-P.
Hall placed sixth with a 4,182, while Mendota was 10th with 3,166.
Payton Miller led the Red Devils with a 907, and Lexi Saylor paced the Trojans with an 818.
Boys Bowling
Mendota, 3,340, Streator 2,757: Paxton Bauer rolled a 703 series to lead the Trojans to a victory at the Elks Lodge in Mendota.
Alex Holland bowled a 648 series for Mendota, while Kooper Novak added a 632 series.
SPORTS
TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY
1940: NFL Draft: Tom Harmon from University of Michigan first pick by Chicago Bears.
1968: Joe Frazier beats Oscar Bonavena in 15 for heavyweight boxing title.
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Bureau Valley’s Carson Gruber drives on Princeton’s Jackson Mason during Saturday’s Colmone Classic action at Hall High School. The Tigers won 86-83 in double OT.
