MER_070925_Mendota Reporter by Shaw Media

CENTS

Summertime means fair time

q LaSalle Co. 4-H Show & Junior Fair set for July 10-13

OTTAWA – Join the fun at the LaSalle County 4-H Show and Junior Fair July 10-13 at the LaSalle County Fairgrounds on the south side of Ottawa. 4-H members are busy completing projects and cleaning up the fairgrounds in preparation for putting on a great exhibit show. This year’s 4-H Show will represent the 4-Hers’ year-round projects, service learning, and community activities the 4-H members participate in. Come on out to the LaSalle County Fairgrounds to experience 4-H. Stay to enjoy the night events too. This year, many new events and activities can be enjoyed.

Thursday, July 10 - Exhibition and judging start on non-livestock projects. This includes everything from aerospace to zucchini. There are also visual arts exhibitions, natural resources, interior design, food science, cake decorating, and more.

The T & A Bucking Bulls Rodeo featuring Rugged Cross Cattle Co. Rodeo will be one of the highlights of the

County 4-H Show & Junior Fair.

The Dog Show, a Style Revue, and a 4-H SWAG Show will also occur on Thursday. The night event will welcome the Illini State Pullers Truck and Tractor Pull.

Friday, July 11 - The Swine, Poultry, and Dairy shows begin in the morning. Following the Dairy Show, the Goat venue will begin. The public presentation speaking contest will be held at 2 p.m. in Exhibit Hall 3.

Included with this presentation is a “Share Your Talent” impromptu show. Youth will be on stage to entertain and share their creative talents.

The T & A Bucking Bulls Rodeo featuring Rugged Cross Cattle Co. Rodeo will open the Mutton Busting event at 6 p.m. and close the evening events with a 7 p.m. rodeo.

Saturday, July 12 - The Horse, Rabbit, and Beef Showmanship contest opens

in the morning with the beef show following. Many fun activities and events will be taking place throughout the day: Funny Magic Guy, Rob Thompson, will provide three shows throughout the afternoon. 4-H pop-up activities and some good old-fashioned contests will occur between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. The evening will offer a Fair Auction at 4:30 p.m. in the show arena, with numerous items for bidding and proceeds benefiting LaSalle County 4-H programming. Evening entertainment will be the Ramer Race Promotions Demolition Derby at 7 p.m. Sunday, July 13 - The Horse and Sheep shows begin at 8 a.m. The Master Showmanship contest begins at approximately 10:30 a.m. in the Show Arena. As a special closing ceremony, graduating 4-H age youth and Cloverbuds are recognized, in addition to special recognition announcements. Fairgoers

and 4-H youth will meet in building 3 in the afternoon to congratulate all exhibitors and honor graduates. The projects are released at the fair’s close at approximately 4 p.m.

Bring the family and come on out to see the fabulous projects young people from all over the county have completed, see all the animals, enjoy good food, and have a great time at the 4-H Show and Junior Fair.

For more information, contact the University of Illinois – LaSalle County Extension at 815-433-0707. If you need an accommodation in order to participate, please contact Toni Pienta, at fusinatt@illinois.edu. or 815433-0707. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.

For information regarding gate fees and night events, call the LaSalle County Junior Fair Association at 815-200-3913.

Historical Society hosting Quilts of Valor program

MENDOTA – The Mendota Historical Society is pleased to announce a very special program that takes place in July. On Saturday, July 12 at 1 p.m., the Historical Society will welcome Terry Johnson, from Quilts

Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased on the Society’s website, mendotamuseums.org or by calling 815.539.3373.

Creative cooks being sought for Sweet Corn Festival Food Contest

MENDOTA – It is time to get out your favorite sweet corn recipes.

The very popular Sweet Corn Festival Food Contest, sponsored by Nightingales Thrift Shop of Mendota, will take place Saturday, Aug. 9 of Sweet Corn Festival Weekend.

The Mendota Area Chamber of Commerce is looking for some creative cooks to serve up special dishes using sweet corn as the main ingredient. Chairperson of the Food Contest is Audrey Becker-Moreno and preparations have begun for this special event.

“There will be a Grand Prize Winner chosen by the judges,” announced Becker. “Prizes will also be awarded for Queen’s Choice, Grand Marshal’s Choice, Most Creative and Best Presentation.

• Contestants must prepare the food ahead of time.

• All categories are open to all types of food dishes, as long as the main ingredient is sweet corn.

• Multiple entries from one contestant will be accepted, but only one award per contestant.

• All entries must be taken to the Mendota Elks Lodge, 707 Indiana Ave., Mendota. They can be dropped off between 1:15 and 1:45 p.m. Judging starts promptly at 2 p.m.

• All entries must bring a recipe card for the judges.

• There are no entry fees to participate in the SCF Food Contest.

• Times may vary due to the number of participants.

The Grand Prize Winner will receive

$250 in Mendota Gift Certificates, which can be used for services or merchandise in over 50 Mendota businesses. The other awards will be $50 Mendota Gift Certificates. Applications for the SCF Food Contest are available at the Mendota Chamber Office, and at www.sweetcornfest.com website or by calling (815) 539-6507. Nightengales Thrift Shop of Mendota and the Mendota Chamber ask all creative cooks to come forward and prepare some fantastic dishes for this year’s event.

State ends fiscal year with record revenue

By BEN SZALINSKI

Capitol News Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – Despite uncertainty over the economy and federal funding during the second half of fiscal year 2025, the year closed on June 30 with the state setting a new record for annual revenue.

Numbers compiled by the independent Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability show FY25 concluded with $54 billion in revenue, the most the state has ever received in a fiscal year. The state also brought in $717 million more in revenue than lawmakers originally budgeted for when they passed a $53.3 billion budget in May 2024.

All told, the final revenue numbers track closely with projections made in May by both COGFA and the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget that formed the basis of the FY26 budget. In other words, June revenues produced no surprises, and lawmakers aren’t sitting on any substantial surplus as the new fiscal year begins.

The record revenues also don’t alleviate any uncertainty for the current or future fiscal

years as Congress considers drastic reductions to the social safety net and aid to states. Causes of revenue growth

Strong personal income tax growth drove the revenue increase in FY25, largely thanks to a “true up” conducted by the Department of Revenue that reallocated business related income tax revenue into the personal income tax category. Personal income tax revenue was 10% higher than in FY24, but corporate income taxes declined by 9.5%.

Some other revenue sources also saw minimal growth. Sales tax revenue grew by less than 1%, though COGFAnoted it increased by nearly 3% in the second half of FY25 after a weak start last summer as gas prices dropped and people cut back on large purchases amid growing economic uncertainty.

Federal income was also down 4.6% in FY25, even when excluding one-time pandemic relief funds the state received in FY24. But in a bright spot for the state, COGFA found that state revenue sources grew more than anticipated to offset the $178 million decline in federal revenue.

Despite solid revenue growth this year,

questions remain about how well it will perform in FY26.

“Whether this record will be surpassed in FY 2026 remains to be seen, though the FY 2026 enacted budget assumes revenues of $55.297 billion – nearly $1.3 billion above the FY 2025 final total,” COGFA Revenue Manger Eric Noggle wrote. Bills paid and money left over

The state also ended the fiscal year with $1.9 billion of cash in the General Revenue

Fund after all bills were paid, according to the Comptroller Susana Mendoza’s office. “We work hard each year to pay bills on time, build up the state’s emergency reserves and stress fiscal discipline, even in these uncertain times,” Mendoza said in a statement. “My office will strive for continued improvement in state finances and credit ratings in the new budget year.” Mendoza’s office also put $256 million into the “rainy day” fund, growing it to a balance of $2.5 billion. The fund is expected to grow at a slower rate in FY26, however, as lawmakers suspended a monthly transfer that will free up $45 million. With an extra cash balance to start the new fiscal year, Mendoza said she plans to prepay monthly pension payments for FY26. Lawmakers gave the comptroller authority last year to make pension payments earlier in the year rather than on a monthly basis when extra money is available.

“This will enable the systems to plan accordingly and keep additional dollars in their investment portfolios into the new budget year,” Mendoza said.

LaSalle

LOCAL AND AREA

Rising M Chiropractic found the perfect space for adjustment in Troy Grove

By BRANDON LaCHANCE

Staff writer

TROY GROVE – Before Maddie Eager graduated from Marquette Academy in Ottawa, she really didn’t know what field she wanted to get into.

Thankfully, she had two years of college classes already finished by time she received her high school diploma, but the future was still unclear.

“In high school, I didn’t know what I was going to do even though I was going to graduate with two years’ worth of classes at IVCC,” said Eager, 24, who lives in the country between Mendota, Triumph and Troy Grove. “I needed to find a career path or an avenue I was going to go down. I started job shadowing. I shadowed a nurse, a physical trainer and a chiropractor.

“Following the chiropractor, it checked all of my boxes. I wanted to work in the health care field, I’d get to set my own hours, it was more holistic and I could have my own business. That’s the way I decided to go.”

Eager planned to attend Eastern Illinois University in Charleston for three years, but thanks to COVID-19, she was only an EIU Panther for a year.

However, she wasn’t derailed long as she found Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, a one-stop shop to graduate with a bachelor’s degree and a Doctor of Chiropractic.

“Going into Palmer, I thought being a chiropractor was just cracking backs. It’s so much more,” Eager said. I’ve loved doing it ever since.”

She first began adjusting in the second trimester at Palmer, 2021, and she received her degrees in June 2024.

In September of the same year, she covered for a maternity leave in Wisconsin for five months. While she was getting extra reps in a neighboring state, she was patiently waiting her location in her hometown area.

“I was covering the maternity leave in September 2024 and I was actually bartending

Celebrate National Moth Week with Illinois Master Naturalists

in Troy Grove. I was only there four days a week,” said Eager. “The other three days a week, I was home adjusting out of my parent’s house or I’d travel to client’s houses to adjust. I was building clientele that way.

“One of my good friends asked me what I was going to do next. I didn’t have a plan after Wisconsin. I hadn’t found a space yet. I hadn’t found anything perfect yet. He said he had a building he was looking to rent. I looked at it. I thought it was nice, big, open and close to home. It’s in my community that I’ve wanted to serve since I started. It worked out.

“Now, it’s nice to have my own space for them to come to.”

On February 10, Eager opened the doors to Rising M Chiropractic at 105 W. Ottawa St. in Troy Grove.

Ever since, she’s been able to adjust in one location.

“I’m a rehab chiropractor, a functional medicine practitioner on the holistic side of things. I look at the person as a whole, not just their nervous system,” Eager said. “Of course, I check their nervous system every time they come, but I address more soft-tissue issues, identify if they’re lacking stability or mobility, look at stool tests, hormone testing and blood work for inflammation.

“It’s a bigger approach, a broader approach, I thought this area was lacking. I’m excited to serve this community in a different, more holistic, way.”

The Rising M Chiropractor logo is unique. The M looks as if it was branded. This comes from her upbringing with horses, which she is still heavily involved.

Actually, when Eager isn’t adjusting humans at 105 W. Ottawa St. in Troy Grove on her off days, Wednesdays and Fridays, she is at a home or a farm adjusting horses and dogs.

They may be bigger, have a different structure, or don’t speak English, but once a chiropractor learns their mannerisms, “They follow the line of drive just like a human.”

OTTAWA – The University of Illinois Extension invites the public to a fascinating Insect Night Lighting program in celebration of National Moth Week. This event will be held on Saturday, July 19, from 8-9:30 p.m. at Nell’s Woodland, 2000 Alexis Ave., Ottawa.

National Moth Week is an annual, global event that invites people of all ages and backgrounds

to participate in the mothing hobby by sharing photos of moths they find for citizen science. Participants will learn about common moths found in Illinois, how to participate in the National Moth Week BioBlitz on the iNaturalist app, and engage in an insect night lighting activity. This special evening program will offer attendees an exciting opportunity to delve into the hidden world of these

often-overlooked, nocturnal creatures. Attendees are encouraged to bring a flashlight and wear insect repellent. This program is suitable for all ages, and no prior experience is necessary. Register online at go.illinois.edu/Mothing If you need an accommodation to participate, please contact Emily Hansen at emhansen@ illinois.edu or 815-224-0896.

Maddie Eager, 24, who lives in the country between Mendota, Triumph and Troy Grove, didn’t know what she was going to do after graduating from Marquette Academy in 2019. After classes and job shadowing, she decided she wanted to be a chiropractor.

Now, she has the perfect space for adjustments, Rising M Chiropractic at 105 W. Ottawa St. in Troy Grove. (Reporter photo by Brandon LaChance)

Waterman Lions Club celebrating 25th anniversary Summerfest & Antique Tractor & Truck Show

OSF Healthcare Saint Elizabeth Medical Center receives “A” grade

OTTAWA – The biannual Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades for the Spring of 2025 have been announced by The Leapfrog Group, a national watchdog organization for patient safety, and OSF HealthCare Saint Elizabeth Medical Center has been named to the list.

Nearly 3,000 hospitals across the U.S. are assigned A, B, C, D, and F letter grades. Widely acknowledged as one of the most prestigious distinctions a hospital can receive in the U.S., the recognition showcases OSF HealthCare’s commitment to patient safety and quality.

OSF Saint Elizabeth Medical Center received an “A” grade.

“Delivering exceptional care is at the heart of everything we do,” said Dawn

Trompeter, president of OSF HealthCare Saint Elizabeth Medical Center. “Our Mission Partners are committed to excellence, collaboration, and continually enhancing the care we provide. We’re proud of their hard work and honored by the recognition that reflects their dedication.”

Three additional OSF HealthCare facilities achieved an “A” grade: OSF HealthCare Saint James - John W. Albrecht Medical Center in Pontiac, OSF HealthCare St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg and OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center in Alton, Ill. The study only includes hospitals of a certain size and treating a minimum number of specific conditions; therefore, some OSF HealthCare facilities, such as

OSF HealthCare Saint Paul Medical Center in Mendota and OSF HealthCare Saint Clare in Princeton, were excluded from the ratings.

Hospitals are assigned A, B, C, D, and F letter grades based on 30 national performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries, and infections, as well as systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm. These measures include patient care management, medication safety, frequency of healthcare-associated infections and maternity care. The biannual report is calculated by a panel of safety experts, peer-reviewed, fully transparent, and free to the public.

To see the full grade for all eligible OSF HealthCare facilities, visit www.hospitalsafetygrade.org.

WATERMAN – The Waterman Lions Club proudly announces its milestone 25th Anniversary Summerfest and Antique Tractor & Truck Show, happening Saturday, July 19, at the scenic, tree-shaded Waterman Lions Park on South Birch Street.

Billed as a full day of family-friendly fun, this beloved tradition promises something for everyone – affordable entertainment, community spirit, and a little nostalgia thrown in for good measure. In honor of its silver anniversary, this year’s event will be extra special, with returning favorites and new surprises alike.

Highlights include:

• 7:30 a.m. breakfast hosted by Shabbona Community Church

• Kids’ shows and activities, including an exotic animal show, Farmer Jeffro, kiddie train, bounce houses, the ever-popular pedal pull and “Drive-a-Tractor” experience

• Live music performances throughout the event

• Classic attractions like the Lions food

OTTAWA — Illinois Valley Public Action to Deliver Shelter (IV PADS) is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its ongoing effort to construct a new homeless shelter facility in Ottawa. The City of Ottawa has officially approved the temporary relocation of IV PADS operations to the former YMCA building during the construction phase, which is anticipated to last between 14 months and two years.

The former YMCA facility meets the essential operational requirements of the organization, including overnight accommodations, a functional kitchen, and adequate shower facilities. IV PADS plans to utilize only the second floor of the building.

To prepare the space for temporary shelter use, the following renovations are planned: roof repairs, installation of a kitchen, creation of separate sleeping areas and updates to HVAC and electrical systems

The total estimated cost for the necessary renovations is $80,000.

“This temporary relocation allows us to continue serving those in need without interruption,” said Carol Alcorn, Executive Director of IV PADS. “We are grateful to the City of Ottawa for their support and to

concession, Fay’s Finest Foods, and the beer garden

• Craft & flea markets, antique farm exhibits, garden tractor competitions, and more

• Tractor pull presented by Weak End Antique Pullers

• The awe-inspiring Parade of Power

• Capping off the evening: a dazzling fireworks display

Always a proud pleaser, legendary farm broadcaster Max Armstrong is slated to return once again as guest announcer.

Also joining the festivities is the Northwest Illinois Chapter of the American Historical Truck Society, which will host its annual truck show in conjunction with the event.

“This show has built a reputation for quality and charm,” said publicity chair Pam Gaston. “The 25th is destined to be the best one yet.”

For more information, visit www.WatermanTractorShow.com. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of small-town heritage and heart.

the community for helping us move one step closer to our new facility.”

The lease agreement with the YMCA has been signed, and renovations will begin shortly.

As the need for shelter and support services in the Illinois Valley continues to grow, IV PADS remains committed to its mission of providing safe, compassionate care to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The organization continues to rely on community support to bring its vision for a new shelter to life.

“With your help, we can cross the finish line,” Alcorn added. “Together, we are building more than a shelter—we are building hope.” For more information about the shelter project or to make a donation, please visit www.ivpads.com or contact IV PADS at 815-224-3047.

Illinois Valley Public Action to Deliver Shelter (IV PADS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness, hunger, and hardship in the Illinois Valley area through emergency shelter, supportive services, and community partnerships.

Jazz In Progress is one of the featured bands performing at The Waterman Lions 25th

Anniversary Summerfest and Antique Tractor & Truck Show on Saturday July 19. (Photo contributed)

IV Pads in Ottawa temporarily relocates to former YMCA

LOCAL AND AREA

OSF HealthCare offers healing program for survivors of sexual assault

MENDOTA – Survivors of sexual assault will find support at OSF Resilient Healing, a new program that will be offered at OSF HealthCare Saint Paul Medical Center in Mendota and OSF HealthCare Saint Elizabeth Medical Center in Ottawa starting in late June.

OSF Resilient Healing represents hope, healing and a renewed commitment to the recovery of sexual assault survivors in the I - 80 Region, said Tasha Arteaga, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) coordinator and advanced practice registered nurse for the program.

“It’s a commitment to the well-being and dignity of every sexual assault survivor. By providing comprehensive, trauma-informed care at no out-of-pocket cost to the survivor for the critical first six months after an assault, OSF and our state partners are making healing a priority.”

OSF Resilient Healing care is offered at two locations: Ottawa and Mendota. These strategically chosen sites ensure that survivors throughout the region can get the care they need in a supportive, safe and accessible setting.

In addition to the OSF Resilient Healing team, the I - 80 SANE team — professionals who perform the forensic exams in the emergency departments at OSF Saint Paul and OSF Saint Elizabeth — includes 17 SANE nurses.

The effects of sexual assault are both profound and far-reaching, added Arteaga. Physically, survivors may experience injuries that require immediate care as well as ongoing health concerns that surface long after the incident. Emotionally and mentally, survivors often experience feelings of shame, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress. The resulting trauma can disrupt every facet of life, from personal relationships to professional endeavors. The impact of sexual assault underscores the critical need for specialized, trauma-informed follow-up care.

While emergency departments provide immediate acute care and forensic examinations, the OSF Resilient Healing program fills the essential gap of ongoing treatment. Survivors benefit from ongoing medical follow-up and mental health support, delivered through a trauma-informed provider. This approach ensures survivors receive important screenings and referrals for any additional support services they might need on the road to recovery.

The Resilient Healing service is available to any survivor who seeks support within six months of their assault. Survivors who’ve already been seen in OSF emergency departments are automatically referred to the program. Self-referrals are also welcomed. Any survivor can call and schedule an appointment at (815) 434-4382.

“If you are experiencing ongoing physical symptoms, emotional distress, or simply the need to talk with someone who understands the unique trauma of sexual assault, then this service is designed for you,” said Arteaga. “Any survivor, regardless of the specifics of their situation, can benefit from compassionate, ongoing support.”

Gardening in extreme heat

By Melinda Myers

The recent heat wave that swept across much of the country is a good reminder to take extra care of our plants and ourselves as temperatures climb. Extreme temperatures can take their toll even on plants normally suited to the growing conditions.

Many plants suffer when short- or long-term temperatures exceed 86° F. You will see withering, leaf and flower drop, stunting and more on heat stressed plants. The longer the heat wave persists the greater the risk of damage.

When daytime temperatures rise above 90°F and night temperatures remain above 70°F blossoms drop, and poor fruit development may occur on tomatoes.

Temperature extremes also impact pepper productivity. When temperatures climb to 95°F or higher the pollen is sterile, and flowers may drop. Small fruit may also fall from the plant during such hot spells.

We can’t change the weather, but we can help our plants cope when temperatures soar. Provide some midday and afternoon shade for plants struggling with the heat. Move containers to a shady location and use a patio umbrella or shade cloth suspended on hoops or stakes to provide your permanent plantings with a bit of relief. Mulch the soil to conserve water, keep plant roots cooler, suppress weeds, and improve the soil as it decomposes. Spread a one-to-three-inch layer of leaves, evergreen needles, woodchips and other organic matter on the soil surface surrounding plants. The coarser

the material, the thicker the layer of mulch needed. Pull mulch away from the trunk of trees and the stems of shrubs and other plants. You obtain multiple benefits from this one task while burning a few calories and strengthening your muscles.

Water plants thoroughly when the top few inches of soil are crumbly and moist. Plants will develop deeper roots able to access water from a larger area, making them more drought tolerant and pest resistant. Avoid frequent light watering that encourages shallow roots more susceptible to drought stress. Make sure new plantings, moisture lovers, and stressed plants are the first to receive a good, long drink.

Don’t overlook established trees and shrubs that need a helping hand during extended periods of hot, dry weather. Soak the area under the tree’s dripline when the top four to six inches of soil

DEATH NOTICES

The Mendota Reporter will print DEATH NOTICES (approximately 50 words including name, age, date of death, time/date of services) free of charge. OBITUARIES will be printed at a cost of $100 to be billed to the arranging funeral home or prepaid with cash, check or credit card. Please submit obituaries or death notices to editor@mendotareporter.com.

are crumbly and slightly moist. Provide ten gallons of water per inch diameter of tree trunk measured at 4.5 feet high.

Water early in the day, when possible, to reduce moisture loss to evaporation. Use soaker hoses and drip irrigation whenever possible. You’ll use less water by applying it right to the soil where it is needed.

Check container gardens daily. Water thoroughly when the top inch or two of soil is dry.

Take care of yourself when gardening especially during hot weather. Try to work in the garden when temperatures are cooler and in the shady spots in your landscape. Take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water.

Cover up your skin with brightly colored, loose-fitting clothing made of densely woven fabrics. Wear a broad-brimmed hat to protect your skin and UV-blocking

sunglasses for the health of your eyes. Apply a broad-spectrum UVA & UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. Apply it 30 minutes before going outdoors and every two hours. You’ll prevent sunburn and skin damage while making it easier to return to the garden each day. With proper care, you and your plants will be better able to withstand the summer heat.

(Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” instant video series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and her website is www.MelindaMyers.com.)

(receiving the Ray Hartstein Trustee Achievement Award), and

Zukowski. (Photo contributed)

IVCC trustee, business training partnership recognized by state community college association

OGLESBY – A longtime Illinois Valley Community College trustee and a College-business partnership that addressed a growing healthcare shortage were recognized June 6 by the Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA), an advisory organization supporting trustees of the 48 state community colleges.

Jane Goetz of Ottawa received the Illinois Community College Trustees Association’s Ray Hartstein Trustee Achievement Award in recognition for exemplary service on the IVCC Board of Trustees. Goetz’s 21 years of service on the IVCC Foundation and College boards capped a distinguished career in elementary education and administration.

“The Harstein award is one of the most prestigious honors that is awarded each year, and Jane is so deserving of this recognition. She has served IVCC, the Foundation, and the local community with tremendous dedication and commitment and we are so thankful to have her support of IVCC for so many years,” said IVCC President Dr. Tracy Morris.

OSF Healthcare received the Business-Industry Partnership Award for developing a successful collaboration with IVCC to train surgical technicians. The College established an accelerated non-credit program to provide certification-based training, while OSF supplied on-site training and employment. Financial assistance reduced financial barriers to students.

community colleges and the students we serve.

Her advocacy for IVCC and the community we serve is tremendous. Jane not only serves, but she always steps up to lead.”

Goetz called the award “quite an honor, and very humbling” and thanked the College administration, trustees, community, and her family. Working with Board colleagues and visionary leaders such as retired president Dr. Jerry Corcoran and current President Morris has been particularly rewarding, she added. Goetz was appointed to represent IVCC on the ICCTA, where she shared ideas with other trustees from around the state.

Through connections from the Ottawa Sunrise Rotary, she helped initiate a partnership to supply equipment to the agriculture program. She retired from her trustee role this spring.

Every trustee brings different life experiences to the table, and “my background has been education, and I brought that experience,” Goetz said. She considers IVCC “a jewel that a lot of people do not realize.”

The Business-Industry Partnership award nomination cited the surgical technician pro -

gram’s impact on the field and the area. “This collaborative approach ensures graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the field, reinforcing the program’s effectiveness in developing a skilled workforce for the region,” the nomination read.

In the accelerated program, students were quickly prepared to enter the workforce, and OSF was prepared to hire them with paid training before students transitioned into full-time employment.

Nearl y 50 students enrolled in the first two classes, and 14 were employed through OSF and several others were employed by other healthcare systems in Central Illinois, according to Heather Bomstad, President of OSF Saint Clare in Princeton and OSF Saint Paul in Mendota, and Chief Nursing Officer for OSF’s I-80 corridor facilities.

IVCC assessed local healthcare needs and responded promptly to OSF’s concerns that the surgical technician shortage was becoming critical as healthcare services in the Illinois Valley expanded. Nurses were being assigned to cover the role or skilled workers were being imported from outside the area, Bomstad added.

“We identified a need for surgical technicians and there was not a local

The Great Outdoors...

“This partnership reflects how community colleges can respond to local industry needs. Jennifer Scheri and her team in the Continuing Education and Business Services department were amazing in this work with the team from OSF. To be recognized at the state level is so incredible and is a testament to the work we can accomplish when we work together with our industry partners,” stated President Morris.

The nomination submitted by the College praised Goetz’s immersion and leadership. “Those who know Jane ... have known a dedicated and passionate representative not only for IVCC, but for all

OTTAWA – Donors can transform the life of a Ugandan family with a pair of piglets.

For just $110, donors can give a family a chance for prosperity through “Believe in UGanda” of Ottawa, an affiliate of the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation.

Debbie Damron of Believe in UGanda is leading the effort to provide piglet pairs to 45 families living in the Kamwenge region of western Uganda, one of the country’s most impoverished areas.

program. This position is essential for surgical procedures,” Bomstad said.

The healthcare system and the College have long been strong partners in nursing and CNA programs, and Bomstad said the pair are exploring additional areas of collaboration.

In addition to Goetz and OSF Healthcare, the College recognized other distinguished individuals and students in various categories for their accomplishments. They include Walt Zukowski, Distinguished Alumni Award; Edgar Lucero Castillo, Pacesetter Award; Donald Leynaud, Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Award; and Samantha Whiteaker, Outstanding Full -Time Faculty Award. IVCC students Ashton Watkins, Emma Garretson, Elizabeth Huffaker, and Maggie Yang were nominated for recognition. Past award nominees for IVCC can be found at https://www.ivcc. edu/awards/iccta-awards.

The Great Outdoors...

Summertime...

“Believe in UGanda” program helps provide piglets to families family – thus the ‘revolving livestock’ – and sells the remaining piglets. The program perpetuates good will and even survival. “They are all in this together,” Damron said of the villagers. A pig operation can have immense benefit to a family by providing it the means to purchase medicine, food, seed and children’s tuition. What Damron and her teams have accomplished since 2008 is nothing short of monumental. They’ve built and continue to support Glory Primary School, a medical clinic, 14 new homes, and 11 libraries housing thousands of books. Damron isn’t slowing down either. BIUG is currently providing financial assistance to 30 families and four homes are under construction. And this most recent trip is her 14th to Uganda.

Damron recently led another group to the region and plans to be part of the “day of joy” when piglets are distributed to families. It is part of a “revolving livestock” program sponsored by Innovations for Transformation Initiative (ITI).

Since 2007, ITI has addressed poverty, famine, education, literacy, wellness and the impact of rampant HIV/AIDS. Damron and her colleagues have worked alongside ITI and its director Milton Tusingwire much of that time.

“Unless you go, you cannot know true Uganda,” Damron says. “It’s like stepping back into the 1800s.

“On piglet distribution day, women come in their finest dresses, sometimes a child on their back. It is an exuberant event. When you hand over a pig you are handing over a life-changing animal,” Damron said.

When the pigs have their first litter, the family keeps a pair, gives a pair to another

Yet Damron notes, “The villagers don’t care if we ever bring them anything. They just want us to be part of their lives. “Their gratitude far outweighs anything we could ever give them,” she said modestly.

“These people have zero resources and no government support. They see us as an answered prayer. We believe in these people.” To contribute to Believe in UGanda and the revolving livestock program, visit https://srccf.org/fund/ believe-in-uganda-field-ofinterest-fund/#donate-section, call (815) 252-2906, or stop in the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation at 116 W. Lafayette St., Suite 2, Ottawa.

A longtime IVCC trustee and a successful College-business partnership were recognized recently as the Illinois Community College Trustees Association honored outstanding people and programs in the state community college system.

Attending the recent recognition ceremony, left to right, are Vanessa Mendez and Heather Bomstad of OSF Healthcare (receiving the Business-Industry Partnership Award), student nominee Ashton Watkins, retired Trustee Jane Goetz

alumni nominees Edgar Lucero Castillo and Walt

Debbie Damron, left, of Ottawa with Mercy Anna – a member of the first family Damron sponsored in 2008 –on pig distribution day. (Photo contributed)

OPINION

Award-winning Newspaper IPA/NINA Ill. Press Assoc./No. Ill. Newspaper Assoc.

Opinions expressed on this page are those of the writer or artist. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Reporter management or staff.

Letters to the editor should be typed or handprinted. They should also be brief. All letters must contain a name, address and telephone number. The editor reserves the right to publish, condense, revise or reject any submissions.

By MARTHA DIAZ ASZKENAZY

Chair, National Newspaper Association

The United States Postal Service is on the brink of a self-induced collapse. The failed policies of the Delivering for America Plan have driven away customers through a combination of sky-high rate increases and degraded service. David Steiner, who will take over as Postmaster General on July 14, 2025, has a tough job to do and little time to do it with some estimates indicating the USPS could be insolvent as soon as 2028.

Congress has a key role to play in helping him right the ship but must get off the sidelines and act. A useful step occurred recently with a hearing before the House Oversight Subcommittee on Government Operations. The National Newspaper Association (NNA) provided a statement for the hearing that lays out key actions Congress can take to help restore the USPS.

We emphasized that NNA members serve their communities, providing news on local events and civic matters that are not covered anywhere else, and that they depend on the USPS to get their papers to subscribers. The USPS — and by extension the small businesses in the communities they serve — faces an immediate and existential crisis. We urge Congress to act swiftly and compel meaningful reform at the USPS.

Here are three actions Congress can take right now to get the USPS back on track and keep commerce in America moving:

• Demand the USPS Board halt the Delivering for America Plan including the large rate increase planned for July 13, 2025. This increase, far above the rate of inflation will only deepen the hole and ties the hands of incoming Postmaster General David Steiner, who should have the opportunity to assess the situation. The same holds true for the network consolidations and service cuts. Every customer that is lost through these increases and service reductions is one less Steiner can rely on in the future.

• Modernize and empower the USPS regulator. Effective checks and balances are needed to keep the USPS on track. Congress needs to update and modernize the postal regulatory process to better safeguard against excessive rates and poor service by passing H.R. 3004, The USPS SERVES US Act.

• Measure newspaper costs accurately. Congress should compel accurate measurement of newspaper service and hold the USPS accountable for maintaining and improving service quality by enacting H.R. 2098/S.1002, the Deliver for Democracy Act

These are all commonsense steps Congress can take to address what has been clearly a failed approach by USPS management. Steiner has a huge job ahead of him and will need all the help he can get.

Congress must act now to make sure the nation’s next Postmaster General is not the last one.

Congress: Pull USPS back from the brink Public Servants

UNITED STATES SENATORS

Tammy Duckworth (D), Washington, D.C. office: G12 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, telephone (202) 224-2854, fax (202) 228-4611; Chicago office: P.O. Box 10793, Chicago, IL 60610, telephone (847) 794-8977. Dick Durbin (D), Washington, D.C. office: 711 Hart Senate Bldg., Washington, D.C. 20510, telephone (202) 224-2152, fax (202) 228-0400; Chicago office: 230 S. Dearborn, Suite 3892, Chicago, IL 60604, telephone (312) 353-4952, fax (312) 353-0150; Springfield office: 525 S. Eighth St., Springfield, IL 62703, telephone (217) 492-4062, fax (217) 492-4382.

UNITED STATES CONGRESS

Lauren Underwood (D), 14th District; Washington, D.C. office: 1410 Longworth HOB, Washington, D.C. 20515, telephone (202) 225-2976; Sandwich office: 207 E. Church St., Unit F, Sandwich, IL 60548, telephone (630) 549-2190.

ILLINOIS GOVERNOR

JB Pritzker (D), Springfield office: Office of the Governor, 207 State House, Springfield, IL 62706, telephone (217) 782-0244; Chicago office: Office of the Governor, James R. Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph, 16-100, Chicago, IL 60601, telephone (312) 814-2121; e-mail GovernorsOffice@ illinois.gov.

ILLINOIS SENATORS

Sue Rezin (R), 38th District; Peru office: 350 Fifth St., Suite 254, Peru, IL 61354, telephone (815) 220-8720, fax (815) 220-8721; State Capitol office: 309J Capitol Building, Springfield, IL 62706, telephone (217) 782-3840, fax (217) 782-7818.

Li Arellano (R), 37th District; Dixon office: 86 S. Galena Ave., Suite 2, Dixon, IL 61021; Geneseo office: 115 S. Oakwood Ave., Geneseo, IL 61254, telephone (309) 944-3737; State Capitol office: Stratton Office Building, A Section, Office C, Springfield, IL 62706, telephone (217) 782-1942.

ILLINOIS REPRESENTATIVES

Bradley Fritts (R), 74th District; District office: 101 W. First St., Suite 501, Dixon, IL 61021, telephone (815) 5613690; Springfield office: 221-N Stratton, Springfield, IL 62706, telephone (217) 782-0535; website www.repfritts.com

Ryan Spain (R), 73rd District; District office: 5407 N. University St., Arbor Hall, Suite B, Peoria, IL 61614, telephone (309) 690-7373; Springfield office: 314 Capitol Building, Springfield, IL 62706, telephone (217) 782-8108. Amy Briel (D), 76th District; District office: PO Box 774, Ottawa, IL 61350, Springfield telephone (217) 782-4141.

Liquor licensees air woes at meeting – 1988

(The following is from Jessica Nashold’s Backtracks & Sidetracks column reprinted from July 8, 1998.)

By Jessica Nashold

Twenty-two liquor license holders appeared at a July 13, 1988, meeting called by Acting Mayor James Strouss. Purpose of the meeting was to give the licensees an opportunity to air their grievances.

Some said police were harassing their patrons. It took only one or two drinks in an hour to be declared legally drunk, according to on tavern owner. Police would wait a short distance from a tavern, he said, then stop an exiting patron for a faulty light on a license plate or other minor infraction. Next would come a DUI arrest. Own owner said he had lost 30 percent of his business because of this practice.

Police Chief John Clark responded that officers should not be sitting at a tavern waiting for customers to leave. An owner explained that wasn’t the problem.

People are afraid to come her.

They come in for one drink and get followed home by the police.

Answering to the charge that DUI arrests had “skyrocketed” since he became police chief, Clark said there had been only 54 DUI arrests since he became chief in November, about 1.3 arrests per week during the 10 months. He said new DUI laws had made it possible to “process” a drunk driver in about one hour as opposed to three. Young officers on the force had been trained under the new DUI laws.

They may be ambitious, but there is nothing wrong with that.

Chief Clark added that perhaps licensees and bartenders were forgetting their responsibility to monitor the degree of intoxication of patrons.

His final word –I will not apologize for getting drunk drivers off the road. ***

Ham radio operators, members of the Starved Rock Radio Club, held a 27-hour field day at Snyder’s Grove. Cal Sondgeroth, a former member, helped organize the event. Mendota Civil Defense supplied a generator and gas.

Object of the field days, held nationwide, was to contact as many operators as possible under abnormal conditions. They made 630 contacts during the time period, including a few in Alaska.

Backtracks & Sidetracks

Sondgeroth was a ham operator with a general license. Other operators in Mendota were Dallas Wulf, Willis Snyder, Paul Wagner and Bill Cheancour.

***

Kip Cheek, staff writer at The Mendota Reporter, interviewed Gary Wolf, former Earlville resident, whose book, “Who Censored Roger Rabbit?” had been filmed by Disney as “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” It was being shown in 1,000 theaters

Wolf said the film storyline differed from the original, but –I have no complaint about the way they made the movie.

“They pretty well took all of the good things in the book and made it into a movie.”

As a result of Roger Rabbit, Wolf had signed a three-movie contract with Disney. Two had been completed at the time of the interview.

Wolf came to Earlville as a youngster when his father bought a pool hall there. He left after graduating from Earlville High in 1959, but –He still considers Earlville his hometown.

***

Mendota Community Hospital ranked “third cheapest” among 14 hospitals in a 13-county area analyzed for cost per treatment and length of stay for 10 emergency illnesses. The study was done by the Illinois Health Care Cost Containment Council. By dividing total cost by length of stay, thew cost at Mendota Community Hospital was $429 per day.

The two hospitals with a lower per day rate were McDonough District Hospital in McDonough County, $352, and Perry Memorial Hospital in Princeton, $381. Most costly stays were at St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, $673 per day.

***

The Illinois Department of Conservation was accepting sealed bids from prospective operators of the Starved Rock Park Lodge. The lease would be for 10 years. Operators would control

84 rental units, kitchen, lounge, enclosed swimming pool, Jacuzzi and tennis courts.

***

Wyanet Butcher Shop opened on Meriden Street. Pat Wood was manager.

***

Drought was beginning to cause alarm in July 1988. Experts believes losses in the corn crop had already reached 35 percent. Instead of an average rainfall of 4 inches during MayJune, there had been only .46 inches. It was hoped soybeans might not be suffering as much as corn. A July 8, 1988, report indicated 2/3 of corn and 29 percent of soybeans were in poor or very poor condition.

***

A car belonging to a Mendota police officer burst into flame after midnight on Sunday, July 10, 1988. A container that had held gas was found “no more than 10 feet from the vehicle.” Estimated damage to Lonnie Kent’s 1983 Ford LTD was $4,000.

The State Fire Marshal was called and Police Chief John Clark gave an update –

A lot of good evidence was left at the site and we have the state criminal labs working on it.

***

To assist Woodhaven residents during road closure to remove the Henkel bridge on US 52, The Reporter published a map showing a proposed route from Woodhaven to Mendota.

***

The MHS Board decided to purchase six FM radios for school buses. A unit that could listen on one frequency and rebroadcast information on a different frequency was expected to solve problems in reception for buses in the hill area near Compton.

***

Winners in Mendota Migrant School Olympic trials, held at the MHS football field, qualified to advance to the State Migrant Olympics in Peoria, July 15. The Reporter camera caught Bobby Botello as he crossed the high jump bar. His best jump of 3 feet, 10 inches took first place in the competition for boys 12-14 years of age. Second place in that category was earned by Remijio Escatel with 3 feet, 7 inches. Girls excelling that day were Yolanda Medina, 3-9, and Araceli Valdez, 3-5.

Blow up Washington, D.C.’s brutalist buildings, and the sooner, the better

By Rich Lowry

There’s a reason God created dynamite. The brutalist federal buildings that have blighted Washington, D.C., for decades deserve the same fate as Carthage after the Third Punic War, and the nation’s capital is finally beginning to move on from these concrete monstrosities.

The Department of Housing and Urban and Development just announced that it is leaving its god-awful headquarters in Washington for a less hideous space in Northern Virginia. HUD Secretary Scott Turner has described the structure as “the ugliest building in D.C.,” which is a dubious claim only because there are so many other buildings in Washington that compete for that distinction. He’s not the first HUD secretary to hate the building. Jack Kemp called it “10 floors of basement.” Meanwhile, the FBI is also departing its HQ, designated by the U.K. building materials retailer Buildworld as the ugliest building in the United States and the second ugliest in the world.

The moves are in keeping with the spirit of President Trump’s executive order stipulating that federal buildings should “respect regional, traditional and classical architectural heritage in order to uplift and beautify public spaces and ennoble the United States and our system of self-government.”

That EO should be considered common sense, but has several trigger words for defenders of the architectural status quo, including “traditional,” “classical” and, perhaps foremost of all, “beautify.” In response, the American Institute of Architects expressed its “strong concerns that mandating architecture styles stifles innovation and harms local communities.”

According to The Nation magazine, Trump’s initiative is part of an agenda to “make historical architecture on the whole inextricable from Eurocentric white supremacy.” In short, it’s an unforgivable offense to want a government building to look nice.

Brutalism, with its blocky, minimalist structures made of poured concrete, was a creation of a post-war Europe that wanted to embrace the fresh and new and to economize on rebuilding. Although the name “brutalism” perfectly captures

the aesthetic effect, it actually comes from the French for “raw concrete,” “beton brut.”

To be sure, concrete is extremely important to modern life, but no one has ever said, “Oh, it’s so elegant and uplifting.” The brutalist buildings in Washington were largely built between the late 1960s and mid-1970s, an era of grievous architectural mistakes, including cookie-cutter multiple-purpose baseball stadiums and modernist Catholic churches. The buildings never had a heyday, but were hated when they were erected and are still hated now.

The seedbed of the trend was a Kennedy administration commission that advocated contemporary designs and said -- laughably, in retrospect -- that federal architecture should “reflect the dignity, enterprise, vigor and stability of the American national government.”

Instead, the brutalist buildings speak of a lumbering bureaucracy with no regard for the sensibilities or priorities of ordinary people. They are about what you’d expect if a DMV were headquartered in a maximum-security prison or in a massive pillbox.

The buildings could easily be used as stage sets for docudramas about East Germany. They are a tribute to soulless monumentality and a gut punch to the human spirit. If they don’t eventually get a well-deserved appointment with a wrecking ball, they should be donated to North Korea.

The original justifications of brutalism no longer apply. The buildings aren’t new anymore, and aren’t cheap. They haven’t aged well in any sense, not aesthetically or functionally. The FBI building is literally falling apart, and the expense of maintaining the HUD building has become ruinous.

Defenders of the brutalist buildings say that they are now part of our heritage and should be preserved as such. That’s not fair, though, to the people who have to work in them, or who walk or drive by them every day. They are a net subtraction to the D.C. landscape and to human happiness. If one of them has to be kept for historical reasons, it should be made into a Smithsonian museum devoted to idiotic fads that were indulged for much too long.

Rich Lowry is editor of the National Review.

Kip Cheek, Managing Editor Brandon LaChance, News Reporter Jennifer Robinson, Office Manager

LOCAL AND AREA

In keeping with the recent practice of timing operations to preserve and promote

mowing period will continue until Aug. 15 in the state of Illinois.

Social Security News

By Mike Weitl PERU –

By Mike Weitl PERU

How business owners can make Social Security part of their retirement planning can give advice on how to prepare for retirement. Business owners can use their personal my Social Security account at www.ssa. gov/myaccount to determine eligibility for retirement benefits as well as get a benefit estimate. Our publication, If You Are

How business owners can make Social Security part of their retirement planning can give advice on how to prepare for retirement.

– Most business owners are focused on growing their business and legacy. But at some point, they must consider a plan for retirement. That’s why it’s important for business owners to begin thinking about how Social Security fits into their retirement planning. Social Security benefits are part of the retirement plan of almost every American worker –including business owners.

Busiest

roadside

In keeping with the recent practice of timing operations to preserve and promote pollinator habitat, the heaviest mowing period will continue until Aug. 15 in the state of Illinois.

Busiest roadside mowing period underway statewide

mowing period underway statewide q Schedule timed to protect pollinators; stay alert for workers, equipment

Most business owners are focused on growing their business and legacy. But at some point, they must consider a plan for retirement. That’s why it’s important for business owners to begin thinking about how Social Security fits into their retirement planning. Social Security benefits are part of the retirement plan of almost every American worker –including business owners. Since there are specific rules for business owners, they should speak with a financial advisor or accountant before applying for benefits.

SPRINGFIELD – With peak roadside mowing season underway, the Illinois Department of Transportation is reminding the public to slow down, proceed with caution and pay extra attention when encountering equipment and personnel. In keeping with the recent practice of timing operations to preserve and promote pollinator habitat, the heaviest mowing period will continue until Aug. 15.

“By strategically scheduling when and where mowing takes place, IDOT is doing its part to help the environment

and Illinois businesses,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “We need your assistance as well. Please be alert for mowing crews who work hard up and down the state, slowing down and giving them plenty of extra distance.”

During the summer, IDOT conducts two primary types of mowing. Safety mowing occurs directly adjacent to the road as needed. Maintenance mowing, which lasts for approximately six weeks and started around July 1, includes areas next to culverts, ditches, traffic

control devices and other structures, while following the Illinois Monarch Project Mowing Guidelines for Pollinators, protecting as much habitat and nectar resources as possible.

The mowing schedule helps to minimize the impact on the traveling public and encourage pollinator activity, which assists in the reproduction of flowers, fruits and vegetables that are essential to the state’s ecosystem and agricultural economy. Reducing the amount of land maintained and growing pollinator habitat also protects

the endangered rusty patched bumble bee and the monarch butterfly, the official state insect of Illinois.

q Schedule timed to protect pollinators; stay alert for workers, equipment

the endangered rusty patched bumble bee and the monarch butterfly, the official state insect of Illinois.

To view a short video about IDOT’s mowing schedules and its work with pollinators, visit IDOT’s YouTube channel.

In 2020, IDOT joined in the launch of the Illinois Monarch Action Plan as part of the Illinois Monarch Project, a collaborative effort with local and state partners to help ensure the survival and successful migration of monarchs by increasing and protecting habitat.

New running mate ‘knows how to get big things done’

By JIM TALAMONTI

The Center Square

The Center Square SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Gov. J.B.

Pritzker was asked about Mitchell at an unrelated event in Peoria.

Pritzker says his choice to be the state’s next lieutenant governor is an experienced government leader who is up for the fight against President Donald Trump.

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says his choice to be the state’s next lieutenant governor is an experienced government leader who is up for the fight against President Donald Trump.

After recently launching his campaign for a third term as governor, Pritzker named Christian Mitchell his 2026 running mate.

“He is somebody that I have grown to trust. I’ve seen him usher enormous legislation through the legislature, working with legislators to pass the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, to pass the infrastructure bill, $45 billion capital bill for the state, so he’s a guy who knows how to get big things done. I’ve worked with him to get it done,” Pritzker said.

critical than ever. We’ve made a lot of progress in the last eight years, but we have to protect that progress,” Mitchell said.

Current Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton announced plans to run for the U.S. Senate one day after Illinois U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, D-Springfield, said he would not seek a sixth term in 2026.

Pritzker said that he expected Stratton to remain lieutenant governor for the next 18 months.

Since there are specific rules for business owners, they should speak with a financial advisor or accountant before applying for benefits. One of the biggest mistakes some business owners make – aside from starting retirement planning too late – is not having a plan at all. This is where a financial expert

One of the biggest mistakes some business owners make – aside from starting retirement planning too late – is not having a plan at all. This is where a financial expert

Business owners can use their personal my Social Security account at www.ssa. gov/myaccount to determine eligibility for retirement benefits as well as get a benefit estimate. Our publication, If You Are Self-Employed, at www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN05-10022.pdf, provides important information about Social Security taxes for business owners as well as how to report earnings. Don’t delay, start your retirement planning today! For more information visit our Plan for Retirement webpage at www.ssa.gov/prepare/ plan-retirement.

Please share this information with your loved ones.

For more information visit our Plan for Retirement webpage at www.ssa.gov/prepare/ plan-retirement. Please share this information with your loved ones. (Weitl is the Social Security District Manager in Peru.)

(Weitl is the Social Security District Manager in Peru.)

Mitchell is currently a First Lieutenant in the Illinois Air National Guard and vice president of civic engagement at the University of Chicago. He served in the Illinois House from 2013 to 2019 and then as Pritzker’s deputy governor from 2019 to 2023. In 2018, Mitchell was executive director of the Democratic Party of Illinois under then-party chairman and longtime Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago.

Pritzker’s campaign released a video to announce that Mitchell was his choice for lieutenant governor next year.

“As a state representative, as the deputy governor of this state, Christian Mitchell has gotten so much done for people. I know when we’ve got to take on [President] Donald Trump and overcome the challenges he’s bringing to our state, that Christian Mitchell is up for that fight,” Pritzker said. Mitchell said Pritzker has done what he promised by thinking big.

“I am so excited to be joining J.B. in this moment, because it’s more

At the governor’s reelection campaign launch, Stratton said it has been wonderful to be Pritzker’s partner in governance.

“We’re two different people. We come from two different backgrounds, but we share the same values, and that is the people of Illinois deserve strong, compassionate leadership,” Stratton said at Pritzker’s reelection campaign launch last week.

Pritzker said Mitchell would have to give up his post at the University of Chicago in order to run for lieutenant governor.

Pritzker:

Mitchell

POLICE BLOTTER

WARRANT ARREST

Connor J. Carreon, 32, of 1309 Guiles Ave., Mendota, was arrested at 11:46 a.m. July 1 on a LaSalle County warrant for failure to appear/driving while license suspended. The subject was transported to the LaSalle County jail to appear before a judge.

WARRANT ARREST

Jonna R. Surratt, 44, of Dixon, was arrested at 1:05 a.m. July 2 on a Lee County warrant for failure to appear/ unlawful manufacturing of methamphetamine, intent to deliver methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine. The subject was transported to the Lee County jail to appear before a judge.

Animals-Pet Waste Ordinance

• The purpose of this section is to establish requirements for the proper disposal of pet solid waste in the City of Mendota so as to protect public health, safety and welfare, and to prescribe penalties for failure to comply.

• Requirement for disposal. All pet owners and keepers are required to immediately and properly dispose of their pet’s solid waste deposited on any property, public or private, not owned or possessed by that person.

• Exemptions. Any owner or keeper who requires the use of a disability assistance animal shall be exempt from the provisions of this section while such animal is being used for that purpose.

• Violations and penalties. Any person(s) who is found to have violated the provisions of this section shall be subject to a fine of no less than $25 and no more than $75.

Household hazardous waste disposal site in Rockford

ROCKFORD – Did you know that there is a waste disposal location for hazardous household waste, such has old mercury-and-glass thermometers?

The Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Center is located at 3315 Kishwaukee St., Rockford. The facility is open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. Waste items will only be accepted during operational hours. Illinois residents can dispose of common household hazardous waste items. Commonly generated wastes include: aerosols, corrosives, oxidizers, solvents, oil-based paints, waste oil, pesticides, fertilizers, batteries (no alkaline), and fluorescent lamps. Also, thermostats, thermometers gauges manometers, barometers, vacuum gauges, mercury switches in children’s light-up sneakers. All liquid wastes are required to be in containers of no more than five gallons. Latex paint is not accepted.

There is no cost for dropping off household hazardous waste items for Illinois residents.

City Ordinance

MENDOTA – The Mendota Police Department would like to remind home and business owners of city ordinances regarding public nuisances.

It is against city ordinance to have accumulations of trash, building materials, abandoned automobiles, machinery, scrap metal, discarded tires, vehicle batteries or any other material that creates a public health hazard on your property. It is also a violation to permit weeds, grass or plants other than trees, bushes or flowers or other ornamental plants to grow to a height exceeding six inches anywhere in the city. Also, all multi-family structures, including structures that consist of both residential and commercial units, and structures which share a wall or walls with another structure, shall be kept free from infestations of insects (including but not limited to bedbugs, cockroaches and disease-carrying insects), rats or other vermin.

The city of Mendota requests anyone who is in violation of the above mentioned nuisance regulations to remove the item(s) from your property. Anyone found in violation will be subject to receiving a citation, which involves a court date and fine.

Don’t miss an issue. Subscribe today. Call 815-539-9396.

City Ordinance

IT’S EASY: All you have to do is read every ad on this page carefully. When you come to a word that is obviously out of place in an ad, write it down so you’ll remember it. After you have read all the ads, you should have a list of words that can be arranged to fill out the mystery phrase. Completely write the phrase out on a piece of paper, along with your name, address and phone number and mail it to: THE MENDOTA REPORTER, P.O. BOX 300, MENDOTA, IL 61342 or drop it off at the Mendota Reporter office at 703 Illinois Avenue. Don’t delay, though, because this week’s answer must be received no later than 12:00 Noon on Monday, July 14, 2025. Answer and name of winner will appear in July 16th edition of The Mendota Reporter. In the event that more than one correct answer is received, we will have a drawing to determine the winner. The winner will be notified and will receive this week’s give-away. All employees of The Mendota Reporter and their families are ineligible to participate.

We need more sports in the summer

least one event or talk to their children about it so they don’t seem like a fool at work or at the bar chatting with friends.

say I have had sports in my life since I was born. My uncle was, still is, a fan of the Dallas Cowboys. When the Cowboys drafted Troy Aikman in 1989, I was three, and when Emmitt Smith was drafted in 1990, I was four, and I got to watch the glory years, the last of them, as a young kid.

In 1995, when the Cowboys played the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Super Bowl, I had to clean my room, wash the dishes, fold my laundry and clean out the refrigerator before I could make popcorn and watch the game. This was the deal I agreed to with my mom because if I didn’t I would have had to watch a bad TV show she liked and then hear about the game at school the next day without any knowledge of what happened. Nope, I’d still do the chores if the 1995 Super Bowl was relived.

Anyway, I could tell a million sports stories but it’s a national holiday, we’re trying to put the paper together early, and I need to catch up on WWE programming before I participate in holiday festivities. So, we’ll save those for future columns.

Throughout fandom, playing basketball and football as a kid, deciding to be a sportswriter and 20 years after being paid because of sports in some capacity -- writer, broadcaster, podcaster, coach, bookkeeper, clock manipulator, referee, and umpire -- I’ve had the same opinion during the summer.

We need more sports.

The Super Bowl is played in January/February. WWE WrestleMania (yes, I’m adding it to the list) is in April. The NBA Finals end in early June, only a week or so after the NHL Stanley Cup is decided.

This leaves soccer, the Olympics (track and field, mostly) and baseball.

For some, this is great because soccer is the most popular sport worldwide. When the Olympics happen every four years, they’re exciting and most people around the world watch at

Baseball is the marathon of all marathons as the 162-game regular season and the postseason push from April to October, with its spotlight brightest during the summer because it’s known as the summer sport of the big four associations (MLB, NBA, NHL, NFL).

Not the Last Chance

By Brandon LaChance

However, in a time of the year when Mother Nature is fuming temperatures of 100 degrees or more, rain delays events, and there are possible tornadoes and hurricanes, depending on your location, watching games could be a disaster. Oh, there is also this thing called time. Sitting in the heat and sun for

two or three hours isn’t everyone’s idea of fun or enjoyment.

Sticking with time, baseball and soccer can be similar to watching paint dry or having your eyes stabbed with a hot poker.

I’ve seen roughly 15-20 MLB games this season and I can only remember a few awesome moments, Shoehei Ohtani returning to the pitching mound, a monster home run from Aaron Judge and the Chicago Cubs’ Pete Crow-Armstrong’s late game heroics.

The rest has just been stat stuffing and loss collecting as only a few teams will have enough wins to make the postseason.

It’s fun for a few games, but not three or four months by itself as the NFL doesn’t get going until August, preseason, but the season doesn’t officially start until September.

I will say, I see some promise for my demand for more sports in the summer.

The WNBA has been in the calendar year’s midway months, but for some, it has been uninteresting and not really a must-see or must-know sporting adventure.

Thanks to Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, Sabrina Ionescu and

the anticipation of rookie Paige Bueckers being an all-time great before her career is over, the WNBA now puts butts in seats and has me tuning in or opening the ESPN app on my phone to check out box scores.

There is also the waited debut of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League, a professional softball league backed by the MLB, scheduled to have its first pitch in 2025.

Rosemont is going to have games and I plan to go to a few in the league’s first year, and moving forward. The first games of the season are on Monday, July 7 with a double header in Rosemont, aired on ESPN2.

Hopefully, my complaint goes away. I don’t like to complain and sports are usually readily available and capture all of my attention.

Let’s make it happen in the summer just as much as the fall, winter and spring. ***

Mendota native Amellia Bromenschenkel has been hired as an assistant women’s basketball coach at University of Northern Iowa.

As a graduate of Southern Illinois University, UNI was a big rival of ours in the Missouri Valley Conference when I was attending every Saluki game. I’m sure nothing has changed.

Although, I now have to look at Bromo as a rival, she is in a great position being a Division I NCAA women’s basketball coach because of her love and knowledge of the game.

We spoke for a story in The Mendota Reporter and for Edge of Your Seat Podcast, which is being released this week, and she knew she wanted to coach in the college ranks. It’s awesome to know her next career footstep has been taken and she gets to stay in the game she loves.

In a press release, Bromo said, ‘I’m extremely excited to join UNI as an assistant basketball coach. I’m super grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a successful and respected program, alongside an incredible and well-established coaching staff. I look forward to translating my experiences as a player into coaching and helping in any way to bring more wins to the program.

“I can’t wait to get started. Go Panthers.”

Strange But True

By Lucie Winborne

* The first staplers were invented in the 18th century for King Louis XV of France, though the word “stapler” wasn’t commonly used until 1901. These early devices were cumbersome and often required force to operate, with some even needing a hammer or mallet.

* Animals with smaller bodies and faster metabolism see in slow motion.

* Occupational therapy techniques date to 100 B.C., when a Greek physician named Asclepiades used them to treat mental illness.

* The tradition of playing loud music at an Irish wake originated with the belief that it would ward off evil spirits. Wakes also provided the opportunity to watch over the deceased to see if they would awaken.

* The Firefox logo isn’t a fox, but a red panda.

* If your hat falls off during a tennis match, your opponent has the option to declare it a “hindrance” and redo the stroke.

* The temperature of a shooting star is around 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

* In 2019, a British woman married her dog. Her motive? After four failed engagements, 220 dates and a general range of unsatisfying experiences in the search for Mr. Right, she had given up on men but felt she and her dog had saved each other.

* “Crab mentality” refers to the “If I can’t have it, neither can you” line of thinking, due to the fact that when a crab in a bucket attempts to escape, its fellow crabs pull it down.

* Trypophobia is the fear of closely packed holes.

* A flute is technically any open tube that one blows into to produce sound -- even, for example, an empty Coke bottle!

ENTERTAINMENT

Celebrity Extra

By Dana Jackson

Q: What ever happened to the new “Cape Fear” movie with Tom Hardy? Wasn’t it supposed to come out a couple years ago?

-- D.E.

A: It was fake news. You probably saw an ad featuring a movie poster of Tom Hardy, Mark Ruffalo, and Emily Blunt starring in the remake of “Cape Fear.” It certainly looked like great casting with Hardy in the menacing role Robert De Niro played in 1991 (and Robert Mitchum played in the original 1962 version). However, as enticing as this remake looked with the amazing Hardy playing a cigar-chomping Max Cady, it never came to fruition. There is a remake in the works but in the form of a series with an entirely different cast. Javier Bardem, who won an Oscar for his portrayal of another conscienceless killer in the 2007 film “No Country for Old Men,” is taking on the De Niro role. The 10-episode series is currently in production in Atlanta

Couch Theater

“Ballerina” (R) -- From the world of “John Wick” comes this action/thriller led by Ana de Armas (“Ghosted”). Although this is the fifth installment in the franchise, the film takes place between “John Wick: Chapter 3” (2019) and “John Wick: Chapter 4” (2023). De Armas plays Eve Macarro, the daughter of two assassins from two respective groups -- the Cult and the Ruska Roma. After having watched her father die at the hands of the Cult, Eve is fueled by insatiable revenge to become an assassin/bodyguard at the Ruska Roma. Twelve years of training later, she’s a stone-cold killer who won’t stop at anything until she exacts her revenge. Of course, Keanu Reeves reprises his role as John Wick, while Lance Reddick reprises his role as Charon -- his final film role following his death in 2023. Out now to rent. (Amazon Prime Video)

“Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Destination Wedding” (PG13) -- The 13th film in the “Madea cinematic universe” (watch out, Marvel, this is the real MCU!) is set to premiere on July 11, with a story meant for the summertime! This time around, we join Madea (Tyler Perry) and her family as they celebrate her grandniece’s wedding in the Bahamas. But even a sunny paradise such as the Bahamas can’t keep the drama from getting stirred, especially as doubts begin to arise regarding the marriage’s legitimacy. Get ready for those quick quips, hilarious mispronunciations, and the outright chaos that makes Madea the woman we’ve come to know and love! (Netflix)

“Marked Men” (R)

-- “Outer Banks’” Chase Stokes has all the makings of a Hollywood movie star on paper, but the projects he’s been cast in, such as this new romantic drama from director Nick Cassavetes (“The Notebook”), seem to fall short of reaching box-office or critical success. Stokes portrays Rule, a misunderstood and mysterious tattoo artist who despises the idea of being tied down to one woman. His family friend, Shaw (Sydney Taylor), is his opposite as a wealthy premed student, but she can no longer contain her crush on him. So, she decides to make her move, accepting the fact that nothing might come of it ... or that she’ll finally get to have the man of her dreams. The film premieres July 8 and co-stars Alexander Ludwig (“Bad Boys: Ride or Die”) and Ella Balinska (“Resident Evil”). (Hulu)

“The Wild Ones” (TVPG) -- In this six-part docuseries releasing July 11, a team of three -- including cameraman Vianet, expedition leader Aldo, and camera trap expert Declan -- attempt to save six endangered species from becoming extinct. Their job is to find these creatures in the wild and gather information on how to help conserve their species. The trio first heads to Malaysian rainforests to find tigers, then to the Mongolian desert to find Gobi bears. Next, they travel to jungles in Gabon for gorillas and Armenian mountains for Caucasian leopards. Finally, they end their series in the North Atlantic, where they encounter some beautiful big whales! (Apple TV+)

1. Who performed the duet “The Last Time I Felt Like This” as the theme song for “Same Time, Next Year”?

2. Which artist released “Sea of Love”?

3. Which former Beatle released “It Don’t Come Easy”?

4. Who wrote and released “Sundown”?

5. Name the song that contains this lyric: “They asked me how I knew my true love was true, I of course replied something here inside cannot be denied.”

Answers

1. Johnny Mathis and Jane Olivor. The song received a nomination for Best Original Song. The 1978 film starred Alan Alda and Ellen Burstyn.

2. Phil Phillips, in 1959. Even though the song shot to the top of the charts, Phillips never recorded another song.

3. Ringo Starr, in 1971. The song was supposed to be titled “You Gotta Pay Your Dues” and was written over several years before and after the breakup of the Beatles.

4. Gordon Lightfoot, in 1974.

5. “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes,” by the Platters, in 1958.

with an eventual release on Apple TV+ in 2026. It will co-star Amy Adams (“Sharp Objects”) and Patrick Wilson (“Fargo”).

As for Hardy, his new Paramount+ series “MobLand” has already been renewed for season two, and he has two films in development: “Mad Max: The Wasteland” and a film about Navy SEALS called “War Party.”

***

Q: Why did they cancel “Grosse Pointe Garden Society”? Is there a chance it could wind up somewhere else? -- K.D.

A: According to TVLine, the dramedy about four members of a suburban garden club mixed up in mischief and murder was canceled by NBC after one season. The first clue was probably the fact that it was moved from Sunday to Friday nights after just three episodes. Despite the fact that it came from the creative mind of Jenna Bans, who’s behind hits like “Desperate Housewives” and “Scandal,” it just didn’t catch on. Melissa Fumero (“Brooklyn Nine-Nine”), who played messy socialite Birdie in the series, calls her character “one for the books” and says

Hollywood

By Tony Rizzo

Gugino’s latest role is in

“Heads of State,” starring John Cena, Idris Elba, Priyanka Chopra-Jonas, and Jack Quaid. It released on July 2. She’ll next co-star

opposite Brad Pitt in Netflix’s “The Adventures of Cliff Booth,” which hails from a script written by Quentin Tarantino.

Pitt says he’d be open to reteaming with Tom Cruise. (They starred together in “Interview with the Vampire” in 1994.) But Pitt frankly confessed, “I’m not gonna hang my ass off airplanes and sh*t like that.”

***

Tom Cruise will finally get his Oscar at the 16th annual Governors Awards, alongside directors Debbie Allen and Spike Lee as well as production designer Wynn Thomas.

Dolly Parton will receive the prestigious Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, which was presented in the past to Elizabeth Taylor, Bob Hope, Harry Belafonte, Oprah Winfrey, Jerry Lewis, Quincy Jones, Paul Newman, Au-

• Trivia Test •

1. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a female goat called?

2. TELEVISION: What is the name of the town in “Gilmore Girls”?

3. GEOGRAPHY: How many states does the Appalachian Trail cross?

4. MOVIES: Which actress voices the character Jessie in “Toy Story 2”?

5. U.S. PRESIDENTS: What is believed to have caused President Zachary Taylor’s death?

6. ANATOMY: What is the most abundant protein in the human body?

7. GEOMETRY: How many sides does a hexagon have?

8. LITERATURE: Serial killer Hannibal Lecter first appears in which novel?

9. ASTRONOMY: What are planets outside our solar system called?

10. MUSIC: Who was the first woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame?

Answers 1. A doe or nanny.

2. Stars Hollow.

3. 14. 4. Joan Cusack.

5. Acute gastroenteritis.

6. Collagen.

7. Six.

8. “Red Dragon” by Thomas Harris.

9. Exoplanets.

she’ll “miss the incredible group of humans” involved with the show. As for the chance that “Grosse Pointe Garden Society” could be rescued by a streamer like Netflix, it’s definitely not unheard of, but the cast and crew seem to have accepted the show’s fate.

***

Q: Will “The Bear” be back for another season on Hulu after the current one? I keep reading that this might be the last one. -- D.A.

A: Hulu hasn’t yet announced if its crown jewel “The Bear” with its 21 Emmy wins will be renewed for a fifth season, but they’d be crazy not to renew it. The decision surely rests in the hands of the show’s creator, Christopher Storer, and his busy cast. The series’ main star, Jeremy Allen White, might soon be adding an Oscar next to his Emmy if his portrayal of the Boss in the upcoming film

“Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere” is as impressive as expected. His “Bear” co-star Ebon Moss-Bacharach stars in “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” which will surely make a big splash at the box office.

drey Hepburn, Frank Sinatra and, most recently, Tyler Perry. They were awarded for their humanitarian efforts that have brought credit to the industry by promoting human welfare and contributing to rectifying inequities.

***

Glen Powell keeps cranking them out! He plays a firefighter in Ron Howard’s upcoming untitled film. His action/thriller “The Running Man” with Josh Brolin, Lee Pace, William H. Macy, Sean Hayes and Colman Domingo hits screens on Nov. 7. His black-comedy/ thriller “Huntington,” with Margaret Qualley and Ed Harris, is upcoming but has no release date yet.

In addition, he’s currently shooting J.J. Abrams’ untitled fantasy film with Jenny Ortega and Samuel L. Jackson. Plus his Hulu comedy series “Chad Powers,” which he co-created with Michael Waldron and also stars in, drops on Sept. 30.

***

In 2024, director Ron Howard, 71, completed his thriller “Eden,” with Jude Law, Ana de Armas, and Sydney Sweeney. For his

Donald Sutherland, and Robert De Niro. (It cost $40 million and grossed $152.4 million.)

***

Oscar winner Kevin Spacey (“American Beauty”) is putting his scandals of the past behind him now that everything’s been resolved. He’s directing himself in the supernatural thriller “Holiguards,” co-starring Dolph Lundgren, Tyrese Gibson and Eric Roberts.

***

Mark Cuban’s “Shark Tank” chair will be filled by frequent guest shark Daniel Lubetsky, the founder of Kind Snacks, which was sold to the Mars Candy Company for $5 billion. Fifty-six-yearold Lubetsky is a nurturing father of four.

Cuban was a very shrewd shark who steamrolled other sharks by demanding that entrepreneurs give him their immediate answers as he counted down from withdrawing his bid.

T. Hardy

HOLLYWOOD -- Carla

Amazon MGM Studios’

film, he is revisiting firefighting as he did in “Backdraft” (1991), which starred Kurt Russell, William Baldwin, Scott Glenn, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Rebecca De Mornay,

If God doesn’t do it, it won’t get done

When we enter into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, something wonderful happens: God begins to change our desires, and we want to be more like Him. That is good news! However, there’s one important lesson we need to learn—we cannot change ourselves. In fact, trying to bring about change in our own strength will always lead to frustration. I learned this lesson firsthand…

When I read God’s Word and saw all of the areas of my life that needed improvement, I immediately went to work, trying to change myself into a good Christian. I tried to improve my mouth, my mind, my

behavior, and every other area that didn’t measure up to perfection. However, my efforts were in vain. It seemed like every other day I was giving up! For instance, if I didn’t get my way when I wanted something, my automatic response was to get upset. I often used anger and selfpity to manipulate people to do what I wanted. So, I decided that things were going to be different… I have always been determined, so I decided I would simply use my willpower to be a better person. Yes, you can probably guess what happened—I didn’t get any better. In fact, I think I actually got a little worse.

I was so harsh with my kids that I couldn’t even tell them to take out the trash without sounding like a drill sergeant!

Finally, I became so tired of being upset and frustrated that I cried out to God. I said, “Lord, I can’t do this anymore. I have done everything I know to do, and nothing is working. If anything is going to change, You are going to have to do it!” Almost immediately, God spoke to my heart and said, “Great! Now I can go to work.”

And that’s just what He was waiting for—for me to stop trying to change myself and start trusting Him to change me.

During this time, there were a couple of scriptures that completely transformed the way I looked at things…

Philippians 2:12 says to “…work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (NIV). But look at what the next verse says: “[Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight” (verse 13, AMPC).

This is powerful! You and I cannot change ourselves, but we can spend time seeking the One Who can change us. As we regularly spend time reading God’s Word and talking to Him in prayer, we put ourselves in position for Him to do things in our lives we could never do on our own.

All God wants us to do is get into agreement with Him. He wants us to say, “Lord, I see this area in my life that You are showing me, and I agree that it needs to change. However, I am powerless to do it. If You don’t do it, it won’t get done.”

This is what it means to “work out” our salvation. We cooperate with the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to work out of us our ungodly traits and work into us the character of Christ.

Second Corinthians 3:18 (AMPC) says, “And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit.”

Let’s look at the last part of this scripture again. It says God will change us “from one degree of glory to another.” What does this mean? It means that little by little, He will transform us and renew our thinking by His Word.

In the early years, I had

a lot of problems. So, I sought the Lord, asking Him to change me. I read the Bible, studied specific scriptures, and prayed. Yet, in the beginning, it seemed as though things were barely changing at all.

But, sure enough, as time passed, all those little changes began adding up. And before long, I could finally see a visible difference in my behavior. I wasn’t where I wanted to be…but I was making progress.

That is when the Lord encouraged me to declare good things about the progress I was making. I started saying, “I’m not where I want to be, but thank God I’m not where I used to be. I’m okay and I’m on my way!”

Satan wants us to constantly focus on everything that is wrong with us and look at how far we still have to go. But God desires for us to rejoice in how far we have already come.

No matter where you are on your journey, one thing is for sure—God is on your side. He is the One Who brought you into relationship with Him,

and He is the One Who will change you and help you make progress—from one degree of glory to another—throughout every season of your life.

***

For more on this topic, order Joyce’s four-part teaching resource I’m Okay and I’m on My Way. You can also contact us to receive our free magazine, Enjoying Everyday Life, by calling (800) 727-9673 or visiting www.joycemeyer.org

Joyce Meyer is a New York Times bestselling author and founder of Joyce Meyer Ministries, Inc. She has authored more than 150 books, including BATTLEFIELD OF THE MIND and OVERCOMING EVERYPROBLEM (FaithWords). She hosts the Enjoying Everyday Life program, which is broadcast to millions in over 110 languages. For more information, visit www.joycemeyer.org

Please note: The views and opinions expressed throughout this publication and/or website are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect those of Joyce Meyer Ministries.

MENDOTA

ROMAN CATHOLIC MASS

Rev. Greg Nelson, Pastor

Fr. Jeff Windy, Parochial Vicar Ray Fischer, Jose Lopez, and Hector Diaz, Deacons HOLY CROSS, MENDOTA

Weekday Mass

M - 6 p.m., Tu - 8 a.m., W - 8:10 a.m., Th - 8 a.m., F - 7 a.m. Weekend Mass

Sat - 8 a.m. (1st Saturday only), 4 p.m.; Sun6:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon (Spanish) Confession

STS. PETER AND PAUL, PETERSTOWN

Weekend Mass Sun - 9 a.m. Confession

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

100 E. Sixth St. (815) 538-5587

Rev. Mary Bohall, Pastor SUNDAY SCHEDULE:

9 a.m. Coffee Fellowship

9 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship In-person & on Facebook at: Mendota First United Methodist Church

ZION UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

808 Jefferson St.

Pastor Jeff Brace jbrace8459@gmail.com

Church office (815) 538-2186

Facebook: Mendota Zion United Methodist Church

SUNDAY SCHEDULE: Sunday Worship 9 a.m.

Sunday School for Preschool - 6th grade in fellowship hall during worship service (Parking lot worship available on 90.9 FM during Sunday services)

TUESDAY - Prayer group 7 p.m.

If I Can

By William Arthur Ward

If I can write one verse of truth today Or give my fellow man a song to sing; If I can push one needless cloud away And help men live as children of the King:

If I can lend someone a helping hand Or warm a place where friendship needs to be; If I can build a bridge where fences stand And light a lamp that other men might see; If I can open doors of hope this day By letting someone know that others care; If I can speak in words that seem to say: I know the heavy burdens that you bear.

If I can guide a pilgrim on his way Or pause to bid him stay for food and rest; If I can do these, Father, this I pray: “O let me do them with my very best.”

UNITED PENTECOSTAL CHURCH

4401 State Route 251 (815) 538-3444

Rev. Charles Yeakel, Pastor E-mail: mendotaupc@yahoo.com www.mendotaupc.org

SUNDAY: Christian Education-10 a.m. Worship - 11:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY: Midweek Bible Study - 7 p.m.

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

1003 5th St. (815) 538-5603

Website: fpcmendota.com Accessible

Pastor Laurie Walker Fellowship 9:45 a.m. Children’s Sunday School following children’s message Worship 10:30 a.m.

LA MOILLE

ZION EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH LaMoille (Clarion) 4 miles west of Mendota on Rt. 34 (815) 539-7820

Sunday Worship 9 a.m. Sunday School 10:15 a.m. Accessible

VICTORY BAPTIST CHURCH

Available on Facebook Live Facebook page www.facebook.com/fpcmendota

“Faithful & Effective” 505 W. 7th Ave. (815) 539-9081

COMMUNITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH La Moille (815) 638-2348

Pastor David Jungnickel E-mail: lamoillecumc@gmail.com

July 10 - 10 a.m. “Fill My Cup” July 11 - 12:30 p.m. HOH pickup; 3 p.m. Unload & stock HOH food July 13 - 9:30 a.m. Second Sunday Breakfast

Pastor Steve Breedlove SUNDAY Sunday school Worship

WEDNESDAY Prayer Service

NEW COVENANT ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Rt. 251 at Lake Mendota P.O. Box 54

SUNDAY WORSHIP 9 a.m. Children’s Sunday School following children’s message

Phone (815) 539-7107 (church) (815) 871-5702 (pastor)

Larry Sheaves, Pastor www.newcovenantmendota.org

www.facebook.com/NCAOG

“Preaching the blood, book and blessed hope.” Sunday School Worship

MENDOTA BIBLE CHURCH

Rt. 251, 1/2 mile south of Mendota (815) 538-6876

Brian Kelly, Pastor www.mendotabiblechurch.org

SUNDAY SCHEDULE Sunday School Worship Evening Service

ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

607 Tenth Ave. (815) 539-5626

Pastor Elise Rothfusz

E-mail: office@stjohnsmendota.org

Website: www.stjohnsmendota.org

Schedule:

9 a.m. Sunday Worship in person and online via YouTube Find us on Facebook

NOTE: Please contact your individual church regarding online services or for other church-related information.

CHRIST’S CHURCH

“He is the Head of the Body, the Church . . . That in everything He might have the supremacy.” Col. 1:18 1107 Main St. (815) 993-2462

Dave Manion Jim McDowell Wayne Shuman Please join us for . . . Sunday Bible Study (all ages) 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. Church Builders 12:30 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study & Prayer 6 p.m. Men’s Ministry

Ladies & Mens Bible Study Thursday 6 p.m.

Non-denominational

Please call for more information

COMPTON

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH

398 Church Road, Compton

Pastor Jeffrey Schlesinger (815) 539-6567

Wheelchair accessible Website: www.ilccompton.org E-mail: immanuellutheran compton@live.com

“Living in God’s Grace as a Neighbor to the World”

SUNDAY WORSHIP SCHEDULE

8:30 a.m. Worship at Immanuel 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. Worship at First

Online “devotional service” videos continue every Sunday at facebook.com/ilccompton and YouTube. Check our website and Facebook page for more information.

1. Is the book of Philemon (KJV) in the Old or New Testament or neither?

2. From Luke 6, who, with companions, went through cornfields and picked ears of corn on a Sabbath? Jesus, Mark, Luke, Samson

3. Which book’s first verse is, “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God”? Matthew, Mark, Luke, John

4. Which “Mount” provided a contest scene between Elijah and the prophets of Baal? Calvary, Sinai, Bethel, Carmel

5. Which city is often referred to as “Zion”? Bethlehem, Jericho, Jerusalem, Nazareth

6. Who was the first born son of Jacob? Aaron, Joseph, Reuben, Simeon

ANSWERS: 1) New, 2) Jesus, 3) Mark, 4) Carmel, 5) Jerusalem, 6) Reuben

Wilson Casey

119 W. Madison St., Ottawa, IL 61350, or with the Independent representative, or both, within 6 months from the date of the first publication of this Notice, or if mailing or delivery of a Claim Notice from the Independent Executor is required, the date stated in that Notice. Any claim not filed on or before the above stated dates is barred. E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider. Visit http://efile.illinoiscourts. 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. illinoiscourts.gov/FAZ/ gethelp.asp.

Maze Lumber Water Street • Peru 815-223-1742

Mendota YMCA 1811 S. 13th Ave. 815-538-2900 Ivymca.org/Mendota-ymca/ FLORISTS

Floralcrest Florist & Greenhouse 1207 22nd St. 815-539-9306

TRUCK

Tacos Guzman 815-503-0839 Follow us on Facebook

HOMES

Wasmer Funeral Home 2112 W. Main St. 815-539-8500

FURNITURE

GROCERY STORES

De La O Grocery • Deli • Meats • Catering 710 Jefferson St. 815-539-6871

Sullivan’s Foods 1102 Meriden St. 815-539-9341

HEALTH CARE CLINIC

Davis Family Health, LLC 1201 Meriden St. 815-538-1800

HEATING & COOLING CONTRACTORS

Malley Plumbing & Heating 123 South Ottawa Street, Earlville 815-246-6011 IL License #055-009898

TOWING

Ramer Automotive & Towing Paul, Matt & Brendan Ramer 4266 E. 4th Road 815-539-5321

VAPE/SMOKE SHOP

Smooth Smokes and Vapor 1001 Main St. 815-539-3499

VETERINARIANS

Ancare Veterinary Clinic

Stephen J. Dullard, DVM ABVP 1205 6th Ave. 815-539-3844 www.ancarevet.com

Mendota Companion Animal Centre Cathy J. Wolf, DVM Rt. 251 N. 815-539-6601 www.mendotavet.com

WINDOWS & DECKING Maze Lumber Water Street • Peru 815-223-1742

Tara Van de Wyngaerde 700 14th Ave. 815-539-6291

PET GROOMING

Dirty Dawgs 1111 Main St. 815-538-2550

PLUMBING CONTRACTORS

Meyers Furniture & Carpet & Mattress 1901 S. 13th Ave. 815-539-6263

Malley Plumbing & Heating 123 South Ottawa Street, Earlville 815-246-6011 IL License #055-009898

Triple Service Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric 801 Monroe St. 815-539-3828 IL Lic. #055-041123 POST FRAME BUILDERS

N.L. Morton Buildings, Ltd. 203 N. 4099th Road 815-539-9325 New construction & repair

REALTORS

Erbes Realty, LLC 1922 Tower Road • Sublette 815-535-6295 • Lorierbes@gmail.com

Correa Heating and Air Conditioning 815-910-9876

Triple Service Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric 801 Monroe St. 815-539-3828 IL Lic. #055-041123

In-Home Care Connection

Hospice Services 680 W. Peru St., Princeton 815-872-7447 www.ihcccare.com

CLEANING Illinois Valley Clean Team 815-228-5273

CREAM SHOP Neveria y Paleteria La Esquinita de Oro Ice Cream Shop 1206 Sixth Ave. • Mendota 815-503-0162

RC Service Co. – Haun Inc. 904 Main St. 815-538-6311

Homestead Realty 1316 Lakewood Plaza, #5 815-539-3811

McConville Realty & Auctioneering 612 Main St. 815-539-5673 RESTAURANTS

Cindy’s on 34 1300 Raymond Drive 815-539-9000 El Ray Del Taco Mexican Restaurant 701 Main St. 815-539-7100

Ziggie’s Family Restaurant 1212 First Ave. 815-539-5060 Ziggiesrestaurant.com

SEAMLESS ROOFING

DuroLast Roofing 705 Illinois Ave. 815-539-5142 License #104005528 SOCIAL CLUB Mendota Elks Lodge #1212 707 Indiana Ave. 815-538-3557

H&R Block 1313 Meriden St. 815-539-7610 hrblock.com

Setchell Agency, Ltd.