Mt_Morris_Times-06-02-2023

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

Doug Wean of Mt. Morris places one of the wreaths on the Memorial Fountain on the Campus Square in Mt. Morris during the Memorial Day program May 29. The fountain was constructed in 1926 by the Mt. Morris American Legion Post.

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Leaf River Summer Daze coming June 2-4

By ALEXA ZOELLNER azoellner@shawmedia.com

LEAF RIVER – Leaf River Summer Daze is set to return this weekend, with even more family-friendly activities than before.

Among the offerings are a petting zoo, Friday’s tractor rodeo and fireworks show, the car show and tractor and truck pulls on Saturday and, of course, the grand parade Sunday afternoon.

“It’s a great way to start the summer,” said Laura Werner, Leaf River Summer Daze Committee co-secretary and a Leaf River Lions Club member. “The weather looks beautiful and there’s things to do for everyone. … There’s stuff to do for every age.”

Leaf River Summer Daze is scheduled for June 2-4. The majority of the events take place at the River Valley Complex and Bertolet Memorial Library.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Summer Lunch Program begins June 6

The Northern Illinois Food Bank will offer its Free Summer Lunch Program to all school-age children in Mt. Morris beginning Tuesday, June 6.

Free lunches will be served from 11:30 a.m. to noon Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the Evangelical Free Church Christian Education Center on the southwest corner of Kable Square.

Registration is welcome. Call the Evangeli-

MT. MORRIS LIBRARY NEWS

Holiday closing

We will be closed on Monday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth. We will be closed on Tuesday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day.

Summer Reading program schedule

June 5-10

Registration is through June 17

Art Collage Class, Monday, June 5, 1 p.m.

Drop-In Name Art, Monday, June 5, 2 to 7 p.m.

Take-N-Make, Tuesday through Saturday, June 6-10

Story Time, Wednesday, June 7, 11:15 a.m.

Lego Challenge, Friday, June 9, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Storytime

Mrs. Donna will be reading books and children will create a craft Wednesday, June 7. Storytime is every Wednesday at 11:15 a.m. Bring your little ones to enjoy stories and a craft at the library.

Other Friday activities include the Citizen of the Year award and music by Grass Attack.

Saturday will feature the Lions Club car show, Sparky’s Kid Zone at the Leaf River Fire Station, an antique tractor parade, Ogle County Pork Producers pork chop sandwiches and a flea market at Bertolet Park.

A cornbag tournament at Fibbers

cal Free Church at 815-734-4942.

Donations needed for MMSC Rummage Sale

The Mt. Morris Senior Center is a place for senior citizens and the entire community of Mt. Morris and beyond to gather. The Senior Center hosts events including exercise classes, card games, meals, crafts and more for all ages.

You can support the Mt. Morris Senior Center by donating to our rummage sale.

and raffle drawings are set to take place Sunday, alongside the parade judging and the parade itself.

“We start planning in January,” Werner said. “Thankfully, it includes all the local organizations, so everyone does their part to make it [Leaf River Summer Daze] happen.”

For a full schedule, visit LeafRiverSummerDaze.org.

The center is collecting items through June 14 at 9 E. Front St. in Mt. Morris.

Items that you think might be a treasure to someone else will be accepted. Items can be brought to the Senior Center between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday or between 1 and 3 p.m. Saturday, June 10. The rummage sale will run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 16 and 17 during the Mt. Morris Townwide Sales.

Anyone interested in working at the rummage sale can call 815-734-6335.

Adult book club

The June book is “The Dressmakers of Auschwitz” by Lucy Adlington. Everyone is welcome to join this book club group. Copies of the book are available at the library. This group will meet in-person on Monday, June 26, at the library.

Cookbook club

Join us as we explore The Cookbook Club. Wonderful recipes combined with friendship creates something both beautiful and delicious. Stop by to choose your recipe from this month’s book “Easy, Delicious Home Cooking” from Real Simple and bring your dish to pass at our next meeting. Join us at 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 6, at The Senior Center for another exciting meal.

class from local crafter Liz Gullett. She will be here from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 8. You will get all the materials to make two beautiful cards to take home. Stop by to see the samples. Fees are by donation. Registration is limited so call the library.

Lego club

Our next Lego night is Thursday, June 15, from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Bring a friend and build some fun with Lego bricks. All children and parents are invited every third Thursday of the month. Children younger than 8 need to bring a parent with them.

Display case showings

Ink

with a Friend: Card making at the library

Join us in June to make some lovely homemade cards to send to family and friends. We will be offering a card-making

Stop by to see our display for the month from Denise Cheek. She is showcasing her Lewis & Clark collection. Come explore how these amazing adventurers documented the western U.S. We are always looking for collectors or artists who are willing to share their treasures in our display cases. If you are interested, call 815-734-4927.

Todd Hollis creates a huge plume of black smoke with his 1938 GMC truck as he pulls the sled at the 2022 Forreston FFA Alumni Tractor and Truck Pull during Leaf River Summer Daze.

E arleen HintonShaw Local file photo

Maggie & Amos Foundation run, family event is June 10

CHANA – The Maggie & Amos Foundation is hosting its sixth annual Infinity Run + Family Fun Event on Saturday, June 10, at Chana Education Center and the Rochelle Conservation Club.

The yearly event is held in memory of Maggie and Amos Meyer (Rosko) who died in a house fire on Oct. 19, 2016, in Byron. Maggie was a favored special education teacher at Chana Education Center and a loving mother to her 3-year-old son, Amos.

The 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation was established by family, friends, coworkers and students in the year after their passing to establish memorial grants as a way to honor Maggie and her son.

Maggie was an advocate of students with disabilities and heavily focused on community inclusion and service to better the lives of others. She was an avid runner and enjoyed participating in 5K events and triathlons in her spare time.

The June 10 event promises to be a full day of activities for everyone with every interest.

The day’s activities begin with the Chana Heritage Tractor Show at the old Chana Fire Station and homemade biscuits and gravy, a breakfast sandwich or pancake and sausage breakfast at the Chana Education Center.

The Infinity Run chip-timed 5K and 1-mile family fun run begins at 8:30 a.m. on the grounds of the school.

Activities move to the Rochelle Conservation Club with an 815 Twin City Baggers cornhole bags tournament offering cash prizes, food served by Ralfie’s BBQ and the Conservation Club members and free children’s activities including bounce houses, face painting and a dunk tank.

The Gypsy Filly Mobile Bar will be providing alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages on-site.

A free scavenger hunt begins at noon. Teams can forage the trails of the club to locate treasures that can be turned in for money and other fun prizes.

A silent auction will be running throughout the day featuring a variety of items and memorabilia. To close out

the day, there will be a live auction by From the Hart Benefit Auction Service, live music by Burn N’ Bush and the monthly steak fry by Rochelle Conservation Club (tickets need to be ordered through the Rochelle Conservation Club).

All proceeds from the event will be used to continue the good works of the foundation. To date, the foundation has provided more than $42,000 in educational grants, scholarships and free children’s programming to local schools, libraries and communities.

First Fridays Open Mic is June 2 at Oregon VFW

OREGON – The First Fridays Open Mic monthly show will be held Friday, June 2, at the Oregon VFW.

The event attracts many talented performers. Musicians and singers of all skill levels find acceptance from the supportive audience.

The show starts at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, although a jar is available for donations. Performers can sign up for time slots on a first-come, firstserve basis, so it’s best to arrive by 6 p.m. or earlier. Interested parties who have questions can call Jerry Tice at 815-4492660.

The VFW is located at 1310 W. Washington St. in Oregon. It provides ample parking, along with the availability of a restaurant and bar within the building.

A fish fry runs from 4 to 8 p.m.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF Kable Band concerts begin June 14

The Mt. Morris Kable Band begins its 127th season of Wednesday night concerts June 14.

Concerts are at the Reckmeyer Band Shell on the Mt. Morris Campus.

Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. every Wednesday from June 14 to Aug. 2.

Additionally, a patriotic concert will be presented at 7:30 p.m. July 4 before the Let Freedom Ring fireworks behind the former DLR school.

Watch for weekly information about guest soloists and performers. Concerts are under the direction of Andy Eckardt.

“The band brings a variety of music selections ... something for everyone. Bench seating is provided or bring a lawn chair. Ice cream socials served by local organizations begin at 7 p.m.,” band member Sylvia Saunders said.

– Shaw Local News Network

Photo provided by the Rosko family Maggie (Rosko) Meyer holds Amos after one of the races she competed in. The Infinity Run is held as a fundraiser for the Maggie & Amos Foundation in their memorry.

Earleen Hinton - Shaw Local file photo

Joanna Jennings of Stillman Valley rides her bike as her dad jogs behind during the 2022 Maggie & Amos Infinity Run in Chana. This year’s event is June 10.

Photo provided by Lowell Harp

Adrian Barragan, pictured with First Fridays’ host Jerry Tice, was the winner of last month’s songwriters’ contest.

Kim Eastabrook and Sophie Coyote took second and third place, respectively, out of a field of eight contestants.

Ready, Set, ‘Gogh’: Art Dash fundraiser a success for Serenity Hospice

OREGON – Everyone loves art, so what was “Gogh”ing on at the second annual event called Art Dash? It was a fundraiser for Serenity Hospice and Home that has become a much-soughtafter event.

It was held at the River’s Edge Experience on April 12. The venue came alive when 84 pieces of art created by 71 artists were placed around the room and provided a beautiful decor for the event.

Dashers bought a ticket for an opportunity to dash for their favorite piece of art, and spectators watched as the excitement rose to see who would get each piece. Most of the art was from the nine counties in northern Illinois that Serenity serves, but donations also were received from artists in Tennessee, Wisconsin, Missouri, Florida and North Carolina who have a connection to Serenity.

“I can honestly say that it is a wonderful event to be a part of,” return participant Matt Jagitsch said. “Aside from the obvious benefits of raising funds for such an amazing establishment, Art Dash provides local and regional artists the opportunity to help promote the

therapeutic benefits of art itself. Creating art has proven to ease the minds of both hospice patients and their families by establishing a way to build self-identity and help communicate feelings that are sometimes hard to put into words. Many of us will be impacted in some way by the care at a hospice facility in our lifetime. Supporting Serenity Hospice through Art Dash is a way that we, the artists, can use our talents and abili-

ties to further awareness of these art therapy programs.”

Those in attendance enjoyed culinary delights, listened to live music, viewed amazing art and mingled with many of the artists who were at the event.

“We had the best time and want to attend next year’s event and bring friends,” said Marsha Behren from the Eagles Nest Art Group.

“The Rivers’ Edge Experience is a

magnificent venue. What an extraordinary asset for our community. It is ideal for this kind of art event,” Erin Moloney said.

The sponsorship and support received to make this event a success truly demonstrates what a small town can do to help a “blessing in our community,” organizers said.

The event helps provide financial assistance to Serenity Hospice and Home, a nonprofit hospice. Serenity goes above and beyond for its patients and families, according to the news release. This includes the state-of-theart Serenity Home, an ambulance service, Joint Commission accreditation and integrated therapy (massage, essential oils, guided visualization/ meditation, virtual reality experiences, pet therapy and more.)

Serenity has earned the highest level (5) in the “We Honor Veterans” program. Other programs offered include pet peace of mind, The Serenity Shed and charity care – they never turn anyone in need away, according to the release.

The third annual Art Dash will be April 10, 2024, at the River’s Edge Experience.

ESL classes to continue at Evangelical Free Church of Mt. Morris

Shaw Local News Network

MT. MORRIS – A successful collaboration between Sauk Valley Community College and the Evangelical Free Church of Mt. Morris means local residents can continue to attend English as a Second Language classes close to home.

The church was the host site for twice weekly ESL classes last fall and again this spring, the first held in Mt. Morris.

Representatives from Adult Education at SVCC and the church voiced enthusiasm for the arrangement. Plans already have been made for the fall and spring sessions.

“We are very happy with the stu -

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF

dent interest and participation we have seen this year in the Mt. Morris ESL class,” said Sarah McFarlane, SVCC program director of adult education. “During the last year, 17 adult learners in the Mt. Morris community were served. These are 17 adults who would not have had the benefit of attending an English class if it were not for the generosity of the church opening its doors to our program. We are so grateful to the church leaders and members for their hospitality and support throughout the past year.”

Adult education instructor Rosanna Cordero, who taught the Mt. Morris classes, agreed.

“The students achieved English speaking level gains across the board.

Some of my students achieved multiple level gains over the course of the class,” she said. “It is important to mention the sense of camaraderie that developed between the class and the church and how important that was in creating a conducive learning space.”

Joyce Long, EFCMM program coordinator for ESL, said the church family was pleased to participate.

“As a church, EFCMM looks for ways to connect with new people in our community,” she said. “Being a host site for ESL has given us a great opportunity to do that. The students have developed connections with each other, as well as with us as a church family. It has been our pleasure to serve the students and watch them grow in their

self-confidence as their speaking skills have improved.”

McFarlane said the ESL class will start again in late August in the Fellowship Hall at the church at 102 S. Seminary Ave., Mt. Morris.

The class will continue to meet two days a week. The fall session will run from Aug. 21 through Dec. 14 and the spring session will run from Jan. 16, 2024, through May 9, 2024. Days and times for the class have yet to be determined.

For information about the class, including registration information, call the Adult Education program at Sauk Valley Community College at 815835-6310. Para hablar con alguien en español, llame al 815-835-6241.

River’s

Edge

Farmers

Market begins

in Oregon on June 1

OREGON – The River’s Edge Farmers Market will start its summer season on Thursday, June 1, from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Almost 30 local vendors are expected to take part in this year’s opening event, which will include three food trucks and live music by The Rock River Strummers.

The market is located at 123 N. Second

St., just north of the Oregon fire station.

“Everyone will be able to stock their fridge with fresh produce, meat, eggs, coffee, honey, maple syrup and mushrooms, plus canned goods and tasty homemade baked goods and snacks. We are also very happy to again accept SNAP/Link funds for the above items,” said Liz Hiemstra, market co-manager.

Those using Link cards can visit the information booth (orange tent with the

yellow tablecloth) to exchange Link funds for “River Bucks,” which can be used to buy food items directly from vendors.

“We are also participating in the Link Match program, which offers a dollar-for-dollar match on Link funds for fresh produce. Spend $10 from your Link card, get another $10 to spend,” she said.

Other items available to purchase

include jewelry, soap, apparel, art, plants, knit and crochet items, dog treats and more.

“Most importantly, we’ll have fun. June 1 promises to be a wonderful night and it only gets better throughout the season. We look forward to seeing you there, June through September,” Hiemstra said. More information can be found at cityoforegon.org/rivers-edge-farmers-market or on Facebook or Instagram.

Photo provided by Karen Vironche

Amanda Walter, Angie Good and Kim Strite attended the Art Dash event.

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100 Women Who Care of Ogle County presented the Ogle County Historical Society

a donation of $7,000. Pictured in the front row are David Head (director at OCHS), Marlene Hobbs (director at OCHS), Christa Young, Kris Gilbert (vice president at OCHS), Jan McMillan (treasurer at OCHS), Julie Mastney (100WWC), Julie Mann (100WWC) and Karen Urish (100WWC). Back row: Maja Shoemaker (100WWC), Jennifer Bakener (100WWC), Dede Forrest (100WWC), Pam Steele (100WWC), Becky McCanse (100WWC), Debby Katzman (100WWC) and Michal Burnett (Facebook administrator and tours and programs director at OCHS).

100 Women Who Care of Ogle County donate to historical society

OREGON – The Ogle County Historical Society of Oregon was the May recipient of the 100 Women Who Care of Ogle County philanthropic donation amounting to $7,000.

Part of this gift will be put to immediate use to cover necessary porch repairs, deep cleaning expenses and additional costs from hail damage, all of which have depleted cash on hand.

The rest of the funds will be used to purchase preservation supplies, the restoration of donated artifacts, and costs associated with research and

CORRECTION

scanning services.

Ogle County Historical Society is sustained through donations and the work of volunteers. Ogle County researchers and museum visitors are welcome at 111 N. Sixth St. in Oregon. Call 815-732-7545 for visiting hours and/or appointments.

100 Women Who Care meets four times a year to award a sizable donation to a deserving charity in Ogle County. For information about this group, contact Deanna Forrest at forrestdede5@gmail.com

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Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media Cayden Webster smiles as he shows his diploma while exiting the Polo High School gym with Courney Bushman at the close of commencement Sunday, May 21. Bushman was misidentified in last week’s print edition.

Photo provided by April Bold of 100WWC

with

The month of June is upon us and even though it is the month of my birthday, I dread to see it roll around. The birthday is not a problem but June means it is time to take the driver’s test again.

I have to take it every year and now I understand the anxious moments that come with it for the older participants.

I can remember years ago we had the women’s group at the church called the Erva Moody Women’s Circle. We met once a month and the driver’s test always was a topic of conversation. Many did not pass it on the first try and it was a very emotional event in their lives. It created much anxiety and some just quit driving.

People ask me if I am still driving and, of course, I am still driving. How

POLO HISTORY

Betty Obendorf

would I get to Mt. Morris to see my great-grandchildren when they come out to visit?

Just yesterday I went over to see the little ones and my how they have changed in just a few months. I sat and lovingly looked at Holly’s folder of school work saved from the whole year. One could see the growth and a year of progress. I would not want to miss that. I love those kids dearly.

So this past week I headed for Chadwick to get that dreaded moment over with so I could enjoy the beginning of June. I remembered

last year I was told that I drove too slowly so this year I must speed up. Yes, I was driving too slow in Chadwick!

They started off by taking my picture and I thought that would be a safe moment. Wrong! I was slouching and told to stand taller. Then my head was tilted wrong and we tried again. That did not work since my chin had to be lower! Then my eyes were not open wide enough.

I think it took four times and the state obviously has lots of film.

By that time I thought to myself I do not think in a whole year that anyone has even looked at the picture on my driver’s license, which is a good thing because that would mean I would be in some kind of trouble.

Finally, the picture taking was over and she was satisfied. I felt that I

was off to a poor start and I had not even gotten to the driving part!

I had noticed that as I came into Chadwick and passed the school that the speed limit has changed in the school area. You are not inching along at 20 mph. Schools always have you barely moving and you have to watch out for children.

I commented to her about the change and she said, “Yes, it has been changed.” Maybe she was impressed that I noticed the change because at the end she said, “You did good.”

I passed – at least for another year. I do not have to quit driving and get myself a little motorized vehicle to get to the museum.

• Betty Obendorf is a retired teacher and a volunteer for the Polo Historical Society.

Passing the driving test was the start of June Community Plaza pays tribute to Sarah Phelps

By OTTO DICK

The Oregon Project Committee recommended the area located in downtown Oregon be named the Sarah Phelps Community Plaza.

Originally this was the Harvard Bank drive-up location at the corner of Fifth and Washington streets.

Sarah Phelps was the wife of Oregon founder John Phelps. We already have an area behind the Coliseum that is dedicated to her husband.

When finished, an area in the same block, just one block south, will be the location of the Sarah Phelps Community Plaza.

Recently, the Phelps summer kitchen was moved from John Phelps’ brick home site located near Mt. Morris to the John Phelps area behind the Coliseum.

The former drive-up was purchased by the city in December 2017 and the family restroom was installed in 2018. Now, plans for phase two of this project are to landscape the exterior grounds and install a sink and refrigerator to be used by the public for events. There will be tables inside and outside used for food service.

So located in the same block in downtown Oregon we now will have memorials to our founder, John Phelps, and his wife, Sarah. Much has been written about the hardships suffered by John Phelps.

In 1816, at age 20, John Phelps married Sarah Rogan Carlin in Wilson County, Tennessee. They raised three

children – Sarah, born in 1817, who married Wesley Johnston from Oregon; James Carlin, born in 1818, who married Ann Swingley from Mt. Morris; and Napoleon, born in 1833, who married Mary A. Thomas from Mt. Morris.

At that time, this was a fairly small family. However, Phelps’ lifestyle kept him away from home a major portion of the time. Phelps recorded many business adventures and many business trips across the country, some taking three or four months.

During their lifetime, Sarah and John lived in the following places: Bedford County, Virginia; Wilson County, Tennessee; Hicks Ferry, Arkansas; Hartville, Tennessee; White Oaks, Wis-

consin; Madison County, Illinois; Schuyer County, Illinois; Ogle County, Illinois; and Austin, Texas. Their longest stay was in their log cabin and later their brick home located between Oregon and Mt. Morris.

Sarah also suffered many hardships. Besides not being allowed the right to vote, women, in many wedding vows,

were instructed to say they would obey their husbands. Their husbands were the heads of the households.

It’s great that we will have a memorial named after Sarah Phelps.

• Otto Dick is a retired teacher and hasresearchedOgleCountyhistoryfor several years.

Photos provided by Otto Dick The summer kitchen was moved to downtown Oregon, behind the Coliseum, several years ago.

Sarah Phelps

PorchFest returning to Mt. Morris on Saturday, June 10

Shaw

MT. MORRIS – The sixth annual Encore! PorchFest Mt. Morris, a grassroots community music festival, returns Saturday, June 10.

“Many favorites from past years, along with some new musicians, will perform 45-minute sets on community porches and lawns throughout the festival area between 1 and 5 p.m.,” said Jeff Bold, one of the event’s organizers. “The audience picks their choices from

a schedule and moves from location to location. Bring your lawn chairs or sit in the grass, walk or ride your bike.”

Performing this year are:

Acoustic Axis: Two acoustic guitars, classic rock, blues and classic country

Denny Diamond: Known for performing Neil Diamond, plus other classics.

Denny Jacobs: Easy listening to oldies. Guitar and vocal folk and blues singer

Goin Postal Unplugged: Classic rock, ballads, country and more

Harold Harrison: Guitar, acoustic folk, country and pop

Korey Pepper: The gritty areas of ’90s grunge and alternative rock

Larry and Randy: Guitar and harmonica, vocals, country, folk. Music from the past 100 years.

RuthAnn Lillstrom: Singer-songwriter, folk and pop

Spare Change: country, bluegrass, folk

Timber Point: Bluegrass

The Magtones: Good-time acoustic

pop

Wattle & Daub: Acoustic voice, rooted in passion and the power of folk

Well Strung: Blues, rock ’n’ roll, country, bluegrass

Who Drank All the Tequila: Acoustic rock with a bluegrass vibe. guitar, bass, mandolin

“A few more are expected as the list continues to grow,” Bold said.

Schedules with a map, porch locations, music and food information are available at EncorePorchFest.info.

Oregon Park District donates computer to Oregon VFW Post 8739

Shaw Local News Network

OREGON – The Oregon Park District has donated a desktop computer to the Oregon VFW Post 8739 after recently upgrading its employee workstations in an effort to keep pace with technological change.

“The park district follows a lifecycle replacement plan to keep its IT infrastructure secure and its staff productive. Some desktop computers were able to

be repurposed, including a desktop donation to the VFW,” Oregon Park District Executive Director Erin Folk said in a news release. “The VFW aims to make a positive impact in the lives of veterans, service members and their families. The Oregon Park District is happy to help make that happen.”

Folk presented the computer to Robert Coulter, assistant quartermaster for Oregon VFW Post 8739, on May 18.

Oregon Park District Executive Director Erin Folk presents a computer to Robert Coulter, assistant quartermaster for Oregon VFW Post 8739.

Photo provided by Oregon Park District

OBITUARIES

MICHAEL “MIKE” L. BOWLIN

Born: September 11, 1955 in Dekalb, IL

Died: May 14, 2023 in Oregon, IL

Michael “Mike” L. Bowlin, 67, of Polo, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Sunday, May 14, 2023 at Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon, IL.

Mike was born on September 11, 1955 in DeKalb, IL, the son of Reece & Betty (Short) Bowlin. He grew up in Forreston and Polo with his best friend and brother, Larry. He graduated from Polo Community High School

BETTY J. BRUNNER

Born: August 4, 1931 in Oregon, IL

Died: May 23, 2023 in Mt. Morris, IL

Oregon ~ Betty J. Brunner, 91, passed away peacefully at Allure of Pinecrest Nursing Home in Mt. Morris on May 23, 2023. She was born in Oregon, IL on August 4, 1931 the daughter of Rossell and Grace (Buhs) Brunner. She lived her entire life in Oregon. She graduated from Oregon High School in 1949 but never really left as she was secretary to the principal and superintendent until she retired in 1993. She was also the Sunday school secretary for the Oregon United Methodist Church. She loved sewing, quilting, handcrafts and her family and friends. Her family sincerely thank her devoted friends who sustained our precious “B” in her golden years, Shirley Mains and

IRENE I. LEFEVRE

Born: March 21, 1939

Died: May 25, 2023

in 1973. He had two beautiful daughters, Angie and Kayla, with his former spouse Christy who remained a co-parent and friend. He was an avid baseball player and excelled at pitching, even receiving opportunities to be scouted by minor league baseball scouts. Along with baseball, he enjoyed playing in various men’s softball leagues where he made countless friends. Throughout his life, Mike held many jobs that he loved including working for McKean Masonry where he earned the nickname “Bones”, Imeco/York International, and most recently PCI Pharma Services in Rockford where he worked up until his cancer diagnosis. Mike was known for his great sense of humor, his love for Stevie Ray Vaughn and the St. Louis Cardinals, and most importantly his undeniable pride

Sandy Sullivan.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents Rossell and Grace (Buhs) Brunner; baby sister Ruth Elizabeth Brunner; and her sweetheart Dick Krizan.

She is survived by her brother Roger Brunner or Oregon; Nephew Kenneth Brunner (Kathy) of Oklahoma; Niece Cynthia Fegter of Florida; great nephew Noah Fegter (Melanie); great niece Amber Fegter; great-great nieces Lindley and Natayln Fegter; and many cousins.

A private Graveside service will be held on Friday, May 26th, 2023. A public Celebration of Life will take place in her honor at Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home of Oregon, IL on Saturday, June 10, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. The family is also going to be setting up a scholarship fund in Betty’s name to be awarded to a worthy Oregon High School Graduate next year. Please visit www.farrellhollandgale. com for upcoming details regarding the Betty J. Brunner Scholarship fund. You may also leave an online condolence at the funeral home website.

and love for his girls whom he referred to as Sweetie and Goof.

Mike is survived by his daughters, Angie Bowlin and Kayla (Zach Quaco) Bowlin of Polo; mother of his girls and lifelong friend, Christy Bowlin of Polo; grandpup, Oakley; nieces, Meghan Bowlin and Haleigh (Justin) Thibault and great nephew, Camden Thibault all of Blue Springs, MO; special aunts, Irene Short of Polo and Linda (Pete) Meyer of Adeline; uncle, Homer (Glenna) Bowlin of Morristown, TN; as well as numerous beloved extended family members including those from his previous marriage; and many friends from all walks of life.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; brother, Larry Bowlin; uncle, David Short Sr.; as well as numerous beloved

PAUL F. “LADD” BEHAN, JR.

Born: August 19, 1953 in Elgin, IL

Died: May 16, 2023 in Rockford, IL

Oregon, Illinois – Paul

“Ladd” F. Behan, Jr., age 69, went to his heavenly home after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at Swedish American Hospital in Rockford, IL. He was born August 19, 1953, in Elgin, Illinois the son of Paul and Laura (Blazer) Behan. He worked over 35 years at White Pines State Park near Oregon. Paul loved spending time with family, making people laugh with his silly personality, gardening, golf, dogs, and vacationing

extended family members including those from his previous marriage.

The family would like to give a special “thanks” to Serenity Hospice and Home. The staff there is incredible and their dedication and compassion during such a difficult time never went unnoticed.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 2, 2023, from 5:00-7:00pm at Polo Family Funeral Home, 110 E. Dixon St., Polo. A short graveside service will follow on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at 10:00am at Fairmount Cemetery in Polo, where he will be laid to rest with his parents.

To send condolences please visit www. polofamilyfuneralhome.com

at Disney World. Paul maintained a positive outlook, a witty sense of humor, and a stubborn streak throughout his cancer diagnosis. Paul touched many souls in his lifetime; he will be greatly missed. He was predeceased by his parents. Paul is survived by his children Kandi Behan of Madison, Wisconsin and Michael Behan of Austin, Texas, grandson Kaden Stumpf, and sister Katherine Behan of Minneapolis, Minnesota. A Christian Funeral Mass will be held 11:00 AM, Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Oregon, Illinois with the Rev. Joseph Naill officiating. Burial will be at the St. Mary’s Cemetery near Oregon, IL. A memorial fund is established in Paul’s name and may be directed to his family. Family would appreciate your memories of Paul and condolences at www.farrellhollandgale.com

Recycle your old electronics in Ogle County on June 23

MT MORRIS - Irene

I. LeFevre, age 94, passed away on Thursday, May 25, 2023 in Pinecrest Manor Nursing Home, Mt. Morris, IL. Irene was born March 21, 1929 in Freeport, IL, the daughter of Charles & Elsie (Kelly) Floto. She graduated from Mt. Morris High School.

Irene married Walter LeFevre on September 11, 1949 in Mt. Morris, IL. Irene enjoyed golfing, playing tennis, working in the yard, traveling with Walt, and spending winters in Florida. Irene is survived by her son: Robert (Crete) LeFevre; daughter: Connie (James)

Johnson, Shannon, IL; grandchildren: Curtis (Shelby) Johnson, Peoria, IL; Kimberly (Aaron) Dietrich, Geneva, IL; Robin (Joshua) Keene, Mt. Morris, IL; and Lance (Lindse Koch) LeFevre, Mt. Morris, IL; great-grandchildren: Madelyn, Alaina, and Trevor Johnson, Peoria, IL, Abigail and Alexander Dietrich, Geneva, IL, Ian and RJ Keene, Mt. Morris, IL, and Laine, Leeah, Logan LeFevre, Mt. Morris, IL.

Irene is preceded in death by her parents; 3 brothers: Glenn, Wayne, and Dwight Floto.

Funeral services were held Wednesday May, 31, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. in Trinity Lutheran Church, Mt. Morris, IL< with Rev. Steve Erickson officiating. Visitation was held Wednesday, May 31, 2023 from 10:00 A.M. until service time in Trinity Lutheran Church. Burial was at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Dixon, IL.

In lieu of flowers memorials to Serenity Hospice & Home.

Shaw Local News Network

OREGON – The next Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department residential electronics recycling event is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, June 23, at 909 Pines Road in Oregon.

This event is for Ogle County residents only and a free permit is required in advance. To obtain a free permit, call 815-732-4020 or email solidwaste@oglecountyil.gov and provide your name, address, phone number and email address by 4 p.m. Thursday, June 22.

Accepted items include all TVs and computer monitors, computers, computer hardware and cables, laptops, tablets, cellphones, printers, FAX machines, scanners, shredders (no tubs), copiers, video gaming equipment, VCRs, cable/satellite boxes, stereo equipment, radios, digital clocks,

cameras, calculators, phone systems, holiday light strands, extension cords, rechargeable batteries, printer ink cartridges, CDs/DVDs and CFL bulbs.

Microwave ovens will be accepted for $5 a unit. Cash or check are accepted.

There is a limit of seven large or bulky items per permit and one permit per county household per month. Business or institutional electronic materials are not accepted at these events.

Business or institutional electronics are accepted by the department via a separate program. Call 815-732-4020 for information and pricing and to make an appointment for dropping off the materials to be recycled.

For information about the recycling event, call the OCSWMD at 815-7324020, visit oglecountyil.gov, or go on Facebook at Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department.

Generation returns to open 2023 Jamboree

MT. MORRIS – Generation, a classic rock and soul band, will open the Mt. Morris Jamboree’s 11th annual free concert season at 7 p.m. Friday, June 9.

“Band members include David Huizenga. ‘The Frontman,’ with his unique style and incredible energy, is the ultimate entertainer. Then there’s Stefanie Berecz with her jaw-dropping, soulful vocals covering the ‘women in rock’ from artists like Ann Wilson (Heart) to Tina Turner,” said Larry Ubben, the Jamboree organizer. “Dave and Stef cover the groups, the frontmen, male/female solos artists, often trading off verses in duets, making these songs their own, but keeping true to the original artists. All backed by a fabulous band with a bit of zany antics

Stillman Valley sixth grader receives ‘Good Deed’ award from American Legion Auxiliary

Julia Moore of the Lena American Legion Auxiliary presented a National American Legion Auxiliary Good Deed Award to Gracie Snyder, a sixth grade student at Stillman Valley Junior High.

An elementary teacher from Stillman Valley lost everything in a Byron house fire in March. The teacher was six months pregnant and a neighbor died while trying to warn the family that their house was on fire.

“Gracie was so sad that she put together a drive for donations of gift cards, cash, clothing, etc., for the teacher,” Moore said. “Gracie wanted to inspire others to help make a difference in the community.”

from the horn section, ‘The Brasscals,’  puts this group at a level that you’d expect of national touring acts.”

The Mt. Morris Moose Lodge will be serving concessions starting at 6 p.m.

“They’ll have chicken strips, french fries, cheese fries, onion rings, cheese curds and fried mushrooms. One or two ice cream trucks will likely be there, too,” Ubben said.

Attendees are asked to bring a blanket or chair and join the fun on the historic campus in the center of Mt. Morris, two blocks south of Illinois Route 64 on Wesley Avenue.

In the event of rain, check for an alternate location at Facebook.com/ mtmorrisjamboree or mtmorrisil.net, or moundertown.com.

Take the Ogle County Health Department Survey for a chance to win a $50 Gift Card!

Food/Nutrition Security in Ogle, Lee, and Whiteside counties

The Ogle County Health Department was awarded a grant to create a plan to target food and nutrition security and the relation to chronic disease throughout Lee, Ogle, and Whiteside counties. Your input on this survey will help us identify disparities throughout the three counties and provide insight on changes that the community would like to see. We are asking for an email address to be provided in order to eliminate duplication of responses and your email address will not be shared.

Your input and support are greatly appreciated. Survey ends June 30.

Brought to you by:

Photo provided by Julia Moore

Julia Moore of the Lena American Legion Auxiliary presents a National American Legion Auxiliary Good Deed Award to Gracie Snyder.

Photo provided by Larry Ubben Generation returns to open the 2023 Jamboree on Friday, June 9.

First installment for Ogle County taxes due June 8

OREGON – Ogle County property owners are being reminded that the first installment of their property tax bill is due Thursday, June 8.

Ogle County Collector Tiffany O’Brien said payment methods include cash or check payable to Ogle County Collector.

“In-person payments can be made at the Treasurer’s office located in the ‘old’ Courthouse at 105 S. Fifth Street, Suite 114, Oregon or at any bank in Ogle County,” O’Brien said.

Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday excluding holidays.

The mailing address is Ogle County Collector, P.O. Box 40, Oregon, IL 61061.

“Mailed payments must be postmarked

PROPERTY TRANSFERS

May 12-18

Warranty Deeds

Creston Commons LLC to Zachary and Sophie McCartney, one parcel in Dement Township, Creston, $18,500.

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. to Jeffrey R. Price, 103 W. Phil Parkway, Forreston, $67,500.

The late Tracy E. Reeder by heirs to Claude E. Keller, 2 S. Ogle St., Mt. Morris, $37,000.

Bradley S. and Terry Ann Campshure to John Little, 401 W. Main St., Davis Junction, $110,000.

Theresa Anne Valentine to Cathleen J. and Kyle A. Hombs, 2867 S. Brookes Island Road, Oregon, $39,500.

Judith A. Martin, also Dickinson, to Martin Brizuela, 816 N. Eighth St., Rochelle, $92,000.

David P. and Meagann E. Lancaste to Martin Brizuela, 812 N. Seventh St., Rochelle, $81,500.

James and Rebecca Thurman to Unique Reyes and Pauletta Linton, 316 E. Center St., Mt. Morris, $132,400. St Patrick’s Church of Rochelle to City of Rochelle, 916 S. Main St., Rochelle, $125,000.

Lori A. Wagner to Richard and Cheryl Ann Heissler, 2610 S. Lowden Road, Oregon, $320,000.

Andrew and Alisha Fortener to Alexandra M. Wimberly, 6978 N. Alpine Drive, Stillman Valley, $277,500.

Noah L. and Ciara M. Stahly to Roberto Martinez Jr. and Cassandra Hajjar Laplante, 501 S. Third St., Rochelle, $150,000.

Harry A. and Dorothy A. Roland to Gerald V. and Barbara J. Hanson, 320 W. Willis Ave., Rochelle, $194,900.

Donald and Kathleen Schott Anderson to Kent Andrew Piskie, 4837 N. Wendorf Road, Davis Junction, $250,000.

by the due date to be considered timely. Late payments will incur a fee of 1.5% per month or part of a month after the due date and must be remitted by mail or at the Collector’s office,” O’Brien said.

The office also is offering the option of online credit card payments.

“You may get to this site by going to www.oglecountyil.gov and then selecting the Treasurer’s department. Choose the Online Tax Payments link and click the Pay Now button. Fill in the information as prompted. Be sure to receive a payment confirmation for your records. Please note that this service carries a fee; review the convenience fees prior to making payment,” O’Brien said.

Sharon K. McManus Trust, Sharon K. McManus, trustee, to Kyle E. Schulenburg and Tiffany N. Nord, 136 Harvest Glenn Drive, Davis Junction, $210,000.

James R. and Connie Whetsel to Andrew M. Sula, 206 S. Hickory St., Stillman Valley, $124,900.

Gregory W. Schultz to Larry D. Bull, 2843 S. Brookes Island Road, Oregon, $172,000.

David C. and Ashley M. Hahn to Maurice Millan, 510 S. Fourth St., Oregon, $166,500.

Larry E. and Gary R. Groenhagen to Reg LLC, one parcel on Limerick Road and 3720 and 4232 E. Limerick Road, Stillman Valley, $0.

James W. and Jean A. Sherwood to Basem S. and Samer S. Aljabari, 105 S. Market St., Byron, $116,000.

Eric and Talitha Stivers to Pedro Lopez Vazquez and Vanessa Martinez Mendoza, 108 N. Barry Ave, Byron, $165,000.

Charlie R. Ramsey Trust, Charlie R. Ramsey, trustee, to NJTC Investments LLC 7th Street, 1091 S. Seventh St., Rochelle, $260,000.

Creston Commons LLC to Michele French, one parcel in Dement Township, $18,500.

Cartus Financial Corp. to Jeffery J. Viviano, 413 St. Francis Drive, Dixon, $264,900.

Tracy D. and Summer L. Roots to Cartus Financial Corp., 413 St. Francis Drive, Dixon, $264,900.

Quit Claim Deeds

Anwar and Shahana Shahzad to Sara Khan, 202 Wisconsin Lane and one parcel in Flagg Township, Dixon, $0.

Trustees Deeds

Timothy and Kathleen Isley Revocable Living Trust, Timothy and Kathleen Isley, trustees, to Sean Thibault, one parcel in Flagg Township,

Rochelle, $1,000.

Rudolf Hunt Trust, William C. Hunt, trustee, to Lincoln T. and Thomas L. Lichty, 408 West St., Davis Junction, $105,000.

Arthur Baum Day Trust, R. Brad Long, trustee, to H. Matthew and Nancy C. Davis, 412 N. Congress Ave., Polo, $145,000.

Kenneth S. Brown Land Trust 1, Kenneth S. Brown, trustee, to Kyle R. Witt, 150 Erickson Road, Rochelle, $112,000.

May 19-25

Warranty deeds

Russell L. Squires to Timothy W. Brechon, one parcel in Rockvale Township, $150,000.

Estate of the late Raynold L. Beach by heirs to Randy A. and Katherine J. Beach, 2444 N. Dixon St., Lindenwood, $76,000.

Ryan R. and Jillian Challand to Jerry Sandoval Osorio and Eleazer Sandoval Telez, 392 Red Fox Drive, Davis Junction, $325,000.

David W. and John F. Safanda to Village of Davis Junction, one parcel in Scott Township, $87,098.

Charles H. Payne to Village of Davis Junction, one parcel in Scott Township, $87,098.

Wiggale LLC to Danielle L. Beukema and Ryan T. Monks, 308 N. Third St., Oregon, $165,500.

Richard T. Tom to Robin Gounaris,

Taxes can be paid at the Ogle County Collector’s office inside the historic Ogle County Courthouse, Suite 114. The courthouse is located at the corner of Illinois 64 and Illinois 2 in downtown Oregon.

202 Rum Court, Dixon, $5,000. Anthony D. and Samantha M. Stafford to Jack B. and Kathleen A. Rausch, 7082 S. Hoosier Road, Dixon, $230,000.

Miranda L. Foster to Kimberly J. Welsand, 908 W. Lincoln Ave., Rochelle, $120,000.

Quit Claim Deeds

Christopher and Linnea M. Wilson, also Larson, to Woosung Investments LLC, 604 Griswold St., Woosung, $0. Kelly Kuhnle to Harold L. Rains, one parcel in Flagg Township, $0. Roger F. and Audrey L. Kilker to Keith M. Kilker and Kinga Hibbs, 12043 W. Pitt Road, Forreston, $0. Trustees Deeds

Miriam K. Montavon Revocable Trust, Miriam K. Montavon, trustee, Ruth M. Graves Revocable Trust, Ruth M. Graves, trustee, Jane M. Kaczorowski Living Trust, Jane M. Kaczorowski, trustee, and Terese A, Byrne Living Trust, Terese A. Byrne, trustee, to County Line Pork LLC, two parcels in Dement Township, Creston, $0. RHM Trust 1, John R. Mueller and Janice L. Kereven, trustees, to Heather and Kyle Seaton, 1128 N. Shadow Wood Drive, Byron, $212,500.

Executors Deeds

The late Marvin A. Kunde by executors to Laura Karpinski, 304 Adams St., Oregon, $107,750.

Estate of the late Daniel E. Stocking by administrators to Timothy and Mark Stocking, 5133 N. Meridian Road, Davis Junction, $0.

Deed in Trust

Pine Rock Storage LLC to LCE Trust 1117, John W. and Theresa L. Krueger, trustee, 4119 E. Pine Rock Road, Oregon, $0.

Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

High school sports season comes to an end

With Byron’s 13-3 supersectional loss in baseball to DePaul College Prep – yes, the same school that played the Byron girls at the basketball supersectional – the local high school sports year comes to an end.

In baseball, the IHSA stipulates that a pitch-count rule be in effect so that pitchers aren’t overused. That hampered the Tigers and one could question why the rule exists in the first place.

Dale Hartman has been coaching for decades and certainly should be trusted to properly use his pitchers. Are concerned veterans such as Hartman penalized because of previous abuses by overzealous coaches?

For sure, society as a whole has taken cumbersome actions in the name of safety. I question the need for many of these measures as most only serve to increase fear levels.

Perhaps a future column will address that, but it will have to wait until at least this fall. Once the school year is over, this column goes on hibernation for the summer.

Thanks to editor Jeff Helfrich at the Ogle County Life for asking me to jump on board midway through the year. And, as always, special acknowledg-

ment to my other boss, Earleen Hinton at Sauk Valley Media, for another year of working together.

This is a labor of love, but I would not do it without people like Jeff and Earleen. They are two of the best in the business and though newspapers are fighting to stay afloat, they continue to give it their all.

Getting back to baseball, Byron finished 26-8 and had a dominant win over Rockford Christian in the sectional final in addition to the regional final pitchers’ duel over North Boone with Braden Smith and Chandler Alderman on the mound.

In a balanced BNC, Dixon was first at 16-2, followed by RC (13-3), Byron (125), NB (11-7), Stillman Valley (10-8) and Rock Falls (9-9).

In softball, Orangeville had Forreston’s number, winning twice, including a 9-1 sectional final win. Nonetheless, the Cardinals finished with a perfect conference slate and 21-6 overall.

Like others at the boys state track

and field meet, it was a stunner for me seeing Forreston-Polo pull off the win in the 400-meter relay. Compared with F-P state relay finalists in the past, this was somewhat of a no-name group.

But, man, did they ever perform at the highest level on the biggest stage. These kids were cool as cucumbers in beating a “who’s who” of 1A sprint powers.

Bear in mind, F-P is no slouch. The program has made quite an impression over the years downstate with four straight top 10 finishes in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2021. In that time frame, Mason Wright (triple jump) and AJ Christensen (hurdles) won individual titles.

However, the relays never could break the barrier as best in the state until now. Congratulations to not only the boys team, but the F-P girls, who led the way among Ogle County schools downstate, as well.

I help officiate the pole vault and had the chance to see the best prospect this state has ever had in freshman Isaiah Whitaker. The Bloomington Central Catholic athlete, who also is on the baseball team, broke the 1A record with a vault of 16 feet, 9 inches.

That would have won 3A by well

over a foot and 2A by half a foot. Whitaker took up the sport as a fifth grader and won the junior high state meet with a 10-foot effort. The kid’s a natural and his next target is the all-time state record of 17-6.

A couple of week ago, George Howe had an informative article on the shortage of high school sports officials. One aspect of it was the IHSA’s effort to educate and encourage fans to exercise sportsmanship.

While that is noble, it is as futile as former first lady Nancy Reagan’s slogan of “Just Say No” to drugs.

It doesn’t work. For sports fans to become civil, there must be a complete change of heart.

Intellectually, fans realize sportsmanship is a good thing. However, emotions will overrule intellect without that spiritual change of heart and the end result is continued abuse of officials.

That’s all for now and we’ll see you in late August unless there is breaking news along the way this summer.

•AndyColbert,anavidrunner,has beenasportswriterforShawMedia andhascoveredhighschoolsportsin OgleCountyformorethan30years.

Andy Colbert

GUEST VIEW

Forreston-Polo wins 1A state title in 4x100

Cardinals surprise themselves, then medal in 2 more events

By TY REYNOLDS treynolds@shawmedia.com

CHARLESTON – As Michael Taylor crossed the finish line, it seemed like everything stopped for a moment for the Forreston-Polo track athletes, coaches and fans in attendance at the IHSA Class 1A state track and field finals May 27 at Eastern Illinois University’s O’Brien Field.

As his 4x100 relay teammates Noah Dewey and McKeon Crase walked back across the football field toward the finish line, they too looked a bit shell-shocked.

But after looking at the scoreboard, they realized that what they believed they just saw actually did happen: The Cardinals were the 4x100 state champions.

“We just don’t know what to think. We’re all just in disbelief, almost. We can’t believe we did it,” Dewey said. “It was an amazing day.”

“Going to sleep last night, I definitely expected a great finish. But I did not expect this, I can’t lie,” Crase said. “We just had to go out and take our spot. We deserved it. I really feel like we did.”

The subdued initial reaction gave way to one of jubilation. After Taylor stretched his arms wide in celebration as he crossed the finish line, Crase leaped into Delo Fernandez’s arms when the four runners finally met up on the track after the race.

The Forreston-Polo quartet ran the race in 42.91 seconds, breaking its own school record of 43.14.

Fernandez led off and maintained his split from Lane 8.

“It all starts with the warmups, getting yourself loosened up and ready to go for the race. It’s kind of a mental battle. And once you get out in those blocks and you hear them say, ‘Get set,’ it all kicks in and you know you’re ready,” Fernandez said. “It’s just running as fast as you can, and the other guys doing it, too. Anything can happen – I mean, we came out here and won. … It’s just amazing.”

Crase got the baton and ran the backstretch, shutting everything else out except his single-minded focus on

getting the baton to Dewey with the lead.

“It was pretty much just get the handoff and go down the track as fast as possible. It’s really a mental battle out there,” Crase said. “It’s me versus a whole bunch of other guys who all made finals. We’re all great relay teams, but you just have to focus on running your race.”

Dewey knew he was in the lead when he took over from Crase and he used the runners he saw in his peripheral vision coming up on him to find another gear.

“I saw at least two runners on my inside and that just made me keep going and keep pushing myself. That’s what made me push,” Dewey said. “We got into first when we were down there in the second-to-third handoff and I had to give it my all. Obviously it worked and I gave it to Mikey and I just knew we had it.”

Taylor did indeed have it, blazing down the homestretch and holding off everyone trying to make late moves to take away the Cardinals’ title.

“I knew there was no one in front of us. I saw Lena coming in and that kind of gave me some more confidence,” Taylor said. “As soon as I got that baton, I locked it in and I just let my body go. I scratched out what my brain

was telling me – you know when your brain tells you to stop, but you’ve just got to keep going because your body will tell you when you’ve reached your limit. You’ve just got to shut out that part of your mind.”

Taylor, who suffers from shin splints, spent 40 minutes in the training area getting ready for the 4x100 after finishing the high jump earlier than he expected. After clearing 1.85 meters in prelims to advance to finals, he missed all three attempts at that height Saturday.

He said he used that disappointment as fuel for his 4x100 leg.

“I was really bummed about the high jump, but life, that’s just how it

goes. There’s going to be battles, but there’s going to be victories, too, so you’ve got to use it to your benefit and give it all you got,” Taylor said.

That same foursome returned twoand-a-half hours later to run the 4x200 and finished fifth in 1:30.00.

Fernandez said it wasn’t hard to refocus after the title in the 4x100, but a slight miscue during the 4x200 kept it from being even better.

“We celebrated a little bit, but then brought our focus back to the 4x2. I think we ran amazing; we had a little error in a handoff, but it happens,” he said. “Anything can happen in these

See CARDINALS, page 13

Photos by Gary Middendorf – gmiddendorf@shawmedia

Forreston-Polo takes the center spot on the podium after it finished first in the Class 1A 4x100 relay at the IHSA state finals May 27 in Charleston. Pictured from the bottom up are McKeon Crase, De’Angelo Fernandez, Michael Taylor and Noah Dewey.

Forreston-Polo head coach Tony Hardin hugs his runners after they won the state championship in the Class 1A 4x100-meter relay at the IHSA state finals May 27 in Charleston.

Forreston-Polo’s Michael Taylor lunges as he crosses the finish line to take first place in the Class 1A 4x100 relay.

Continued from page 12

races. I’m happy for my team. I’m proud of them.”

The Cardinals were back on the track for the final race of the day in the 4x400. They finished fourth in 3:26.85, with Crase and Dewey teaming up with Micah Nelson and Brock Soltow in that race.

Nelson and Soltow were just as excited as their teammates when they watched the 4x100 team take the title and spent the rest of the day waiting until the final event trying to make sure they could help their team be successful in the 4x400.

“When we saw that 4x1 win state, we went crazy. We were so excited. It was awesome. It makes you not want to be the one who doesn’t run his best for the team,” Nelson said. “It was great to have that time to prepare. I got to take a couple naps during the day, felt great. It’s good to be out here. It’s my first time and it’s an amazing feeling.”

Soltow said the Cardinals coaches had he and Nelson staying loose and doing warmups throughout the day to get ready.

“All day, we just relaxed in there, Micah and I, tried to stretch out, basically all day. Coach had us doing workouts to get ready,” Soltow said. “It felt pretty good at the start, but we had a bad handoff and we knew we had to catch back up. We did pretty good getting back up there and it felt good getting fourth place.

“It felt really good seeing our 4x1 get first. I didn’t think they were going to get it and they shocked everybody. Then our 4x2 got fifth, so that was pretty awesome. It was a good day.”

Taylor said the way the Cardinals performed in all three relays, not just

the state title winning relay, showed what Forreston-Polo track is all about.

“We definitely proved ourselves as a team, for sure. We came out here and we gave it our best. Like I said earlier, in life there’s always ups and downs, and it’s not always going to go your way. But we just had to keep our heads up and just give it our all,” Taylor said. “We won a state title, and it’s been a good day and a good experience. Not everyone gets to experience this, so it’s really good and I’m really grateful.”

The memory of the state championship is going to linger in the Cardinals’ minds for an awfully long time.

“I’m very proud of my guys, proud

Riverdale’s Murray a double winner

By TY REYNOLDS sreynolds@shawmedia.com

CHARLESTON – Tommy Murray started the IHSA Class 1A state finals with a strong run in the 3,200 meters. He finished it with a final strong kick in the 1,600.

He left the meet as a two-event champion.

The Riverdale senior closed his career with a pair of gold medals Saturday at Eastern Illinois University’s O’Brien Field, pulling off the distance double with two scintillating performances.

Murray won the third race of the day, taking the 3,200 in 9:14.77. He then won the third-to-last race of the day, topping the field in the 1,600 with a time of 4:19.24.

“It feels pretty good,” Murray said, when asked how he liked the sound of “state champion” before his name. “Happy about it. This is what all the work has gone into, and I’m just thankful for everyone around me: my team, my support system, my coaches, my parents, all my family. It helps me a lot, and winning makes them proud, and that’s my way of thanking them for helping me so much.”

The 3,200 was never really in doubt. After Murray ran with the lead pack for the first four laps, he took the lead and slowly expanded it throughout the final four laps. When Tuscola’s Jackson Barrett started picking up his pace to make a move to the front, the Rams star matched it and cruised to the victory.

See MURRAY, page 14

of myself. We really put the work in, extra hours, extra days. The coaches pushed us harder and harder each day and it paid off big-time,” Crase said. “It feels great.”

“Just the chance to come down here is once in a lifetime. To do what we did is even better,” Fernandez said. “I couldn’t be more proud of my teammates.”

Photo provided by Coach Tony Hardin Forreston-Polo’s 4x100 relay team finished first at the Class 1A state track meet in Charleston on May 27. Pictured from left are Noah Dewey, McKeon Crase, De’Angelo Fernandez and Michael Taylor.

F-P track athletes led qualifiers for 1A state finals

Almost 40 area athletes qualified for the IHSA Class 1A boys track and field state meet in 17 out of the 18 events, but only a handful advanced to the finals out of the May 25 preliminaries in Charleston.

Out of all the state qualifiers, just 17 competed on Saturday, May 27, in 11 events.

Forreston-Polo had a trio of athletes qualify for the finals in three events each. Michael Taylor moved on in the high jump, and also teamed with De’Angelo Fernandez, McKeon Crase and Noah Dewey to qualify in the 4x100 and 4x200 relays.

Crase and Dewey also advanced in the 4x400 along with Brock Soltow and Micah Nelson.

“We all just pushed each other, really focused up. Our coaches really pushed us to lock in,” Crase said. “A lot of people fumbled a little bit today and didn’t do their best, and luckily we

Continued from page 13

He ran the second half of the race just as fast – if not faster – than the first four laps and beat runner-up Akili Parekh of Chicago Latin by 7.55

locked in a little bit harder and did what we had to do to advance.

“It was an awesome atmosphere. Looking up at the hundreds of people watching, hearing our names being cheered, it makes you run faster.”

The 4x100 (43.31 seconds) ran the third-fastest times in prelims, and the 4x200 (1:30.51) and 4x400 (3:27.98) were both seeded fifth heading into the finals.

“Our handoffs were really good, and the adrenaline from the crowd really pushed us,” Dewey said. “We just ran our race and hoped for the best, and all four of us were pretty quick in all three relays. We just have to try and push ourselves as much as we can on Saturday, overextend for our PRs since it’s the last race of the year.”

Taylor was one of 14 finalists in the high jump. He cleared 1.85 meters (6 feet, 3/4 inches). Eight athletes

seconds (9:22.32). Barrett took third in 9:24.18.

As fresh as the joy and pain after the race was the knowledge that about three hours and 15 minutes later, he’d be back on the track for the final time in his high school career to run the

cleared 1.88 meters (6-2), and Taylor and five others were right behind.

He’ll be looking to improve on his PR of 6-3 in the finals, and believes that if he does so, he’ll bring home a medal.

1,600. At the time, he wasn’t sure how well he’d recover for the second run of the day, but was looking forward to the challenge.

Murray took full advantage of that final run. He got out in front in the first half of the 1,600, then had the answer to a late challenge.

With the pack running much closer together, Murray had a couple of runners right behind him with about 300 meters to go. One of them passed Murray with about 200 meters left in the race, but that just spurred Murray to move faster. He kicked it in, passing the new leader almost immediately and then holding on down the final stretch to take home his second title of the day.

“I wanted that victory, so I just felt it in me to kick right back at him and I was able to do it. It’s my last race, so why not put everything out there?” Murray said. “I was a bit tired to come back for the 1,600, but all the work and everything I’ve done pushed me through. I’m very happy about that. I didn’t really expect it, but very happy about it.”

After missing out on the state experience as a freshman because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Murray qualified in both events as a sophomore in 2021; he finished seventh in the 3,200 in 9:43.33 and 16th in the 1,600 in 4:41.51.

Last year, he added two more medals to the seventh from 2021, taking third in the 1,600 in 4:21.98 and finishing fourth in the 3,200 in 9:31.75. He was 4.39 seconds off the pace in the 1,600, and 16.18 seconds behind in the 3,200.

But the endless miles Murray has put in paid off in a big way in his final meet as a Ram, and he took a moment

“It was all just the motivation from my coaches and teammates. They really helped me to put all my best our there,” Taylor said. “I still want to PR at state, and I’m going to come out Saturday in the finals and give it all I got since it will be my last time competing in high school.”

Forreston-Polo’s Jace Engbert finished 23rd in the 110 hurdles (16.46 seconds), while Fulton’s Daken Pessman was 16th in the triple jump (12.42 meters). Oregon’s lone state qualifier, Aidan Guida, took 28th in the 200 (23.29 seconds), and the Amboy co-op’s 4x400 relay team of Joel Billhorn, Zane Murphy, Caleb Yonos and Kyler McNinch took 25th in 3:35.47.

Erie-Prophetstown did not advance in any of its three events. Parker Holldorf, who came into the pole vault seeded fourth, missed all three attempts at his opening height of 3.80 meters.

after the second victory to acknowledge how far he’s come and those who helped him on his journey.

“I’m just so thankful I’ve been able to run with all the guys on my team. The support system I have, the family I have, I’ve created some of my closest relationships, and my coaches have become like parents and role models to me. It’s really just changed me as an individual, helped me grow a lot and kind of helped me find an identity, too,” Murray said. “It’s given me plans for the future. It’s all just great. I’m just so happy with my career at Riverdale, and again, I’m so glad to have spent my four years here.”

He also hopes the gold medals will help give back to the Riverdale Ram running program that has given him so much the past four years.

Gary Middendorf – gmiddendorf@shawmedia Riverdale’s Tommy Murray crosses the finish line first in the Class 1A 1,600-meter run at the IHSA state finals May 27 in Charleston.

Forreston-Polo’s Michael Taylor takes the baton from Noah Dewey.

Prophetstown man accused of attempted arson of clinic

By KATHLEEN A. SCHULTZ kschultz@shawmedia.com

URBANA – A 73-year-old Prophetstown man who claimed to be a member of an anti-abortion “rescue group” has been charged in federal court after investigators said he drove a car into a future Danville reproductive health clinic and tried to burn it down.

Philip J. Buyno was charged in U.S. Central District Court with attempted arson and faces five to 20 years in prison.

Buyno was to appear in court May 23, where among other things, the judge was to determine if he would be held pending further proceedings. He did not appear because of an unspecified “medical event.”

The hearing has yet to be rescheduled.

According to the probable cause affidavit, Buyno was arrested May 20 after getting trapped inside his car, which he backed into the entrance to the building about 4:30 a.m., triggering an alarm.

The former eye clinic is being remodeled to open this year as a reproductive health clinic. It was equipped with video surveillance cameras that captured Buyno’s Volkswagen Passat backing into it several times at high speed, according to the affidavit.

Buyno, who waived his right to an attorney, told Danville police officers and an FBI agent that he heard in early May the clinic would be used for abortions, so he loaded his car with old tires, wood and gasoline and reinforced the trunk with wooden beams so he could use the car to batter his way into the building. He intended to burn the building, along with his car, once he got inside, according to the affidavit.

After ramming the building, he threw a can of gas out of the car and intended to light it, but it landed upright and as he was trapped inside, he could not complete the act, according to the affidavit.

Buyno told officers he was a member of “a rescue group,” the purpose of which was to prevent abortion clinics from being established, according to the affidavit.

Buyno was active in the anti-abortion movement in the 1980s and ‘90s and had been arrested many times,

then became active again after his retirement four years ago, the affidavit quoted Buyno as saying. Buyno was arrested in 2019 for trespassing at a Peoria clinic, according to the affidavit.

Buyno also said that “if I could sneak in with a gas can and a match, I’d go there again,” and that if he is released from jail, he’ll go back and finish the job, according to the affidavit.

Buyno, who has no criminal history in Lee or Whiteside counties, was facing Vermilion County criminal charges for the damage to the clinic, but those charges were dismissed, according to online court records.

Danville is near the Illinois-Indiana border and about 200 miles from Prophetstown.

Residents from both states are expected to use the clinic, which, according to The Associated Press, has generated controversy.

Earlier this month, the Danville City Council voted to ban the mailing or shipping of abortion pills even as state Democratic officials have warned that step violates Illinois law protecting abortion as a fundamental right.

Danville officials have said the

building at 600 N. Logan Ave. is being renovated as an abortion clinic after Indiana’s Republican-dominated Legislature voted last summer to ban abortion. A legal challenge pending before the Indiana Supreme Court has kept the state’s ban on hold since September.

In a posting on its Facebook page, the Danville Police Department sought to clarify that the as-yet-unnamed future clinic is not affiliated with a current women’s clinic, or any other clinics, in the city.

“The information we have as of now is the site was purchased by the Indianapolis-based McGhee Investment Group,” according to the post.

“That group is associated with the Indianapolis Clinic for Women and that clinic does provide abortion services. Until we have a definitive name associated with this site we will now be referring to this site as the proposed women’s clinic.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugene L. Miller is prosecuting. There was no indication in court records as of May 24 that Buyno has hired or been appointed an attorney.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

Philip J. Buyno

Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle reports the following police activity.

May 22

Karlo Qunitanilla, 20, of Davis Junction, was arrested for criminal damage to property and resisting a peace officer after deputies responded to the 100 block of Roy Avenue, Hillcrest, at 6:49 p.m. for a report of a domestic disturbance. Qunitanilla was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond.

Lisa Peterson, 47, of Leaf River, was arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol after a traffic stop in the 1000 block of South Ridge Road about 10:06 p.m. She also was cited for operating a vehicle with a suspended registration and a warning for an expired registration. Peterson was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond.

May 23

Charles Ladenberger, 38, of Mt. Morris, was arrested for driving while license revoked after a traffic stop in the 200 block of East Hitt Street, Mt. Morris, about 11:45 p.m. He also was cited for operating an uninsured vehicle and suspended registration. Ladenberger was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond.

May 24

About 12:47 p.m., deputies responded to a report of a theft at Lost Nation Golf Club. After a brief investigation, Benjamin Rhodes, 44, of Dixon, was found and arrested for theft under $500 and two active Lee County failure-to-appear warrants. Rhodes was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond.

Anthony P. Cuchiara, 27, of Rochelle, was arrested for driving while license suspended after a traffic stop in the 14000 block of east Illinois Route 72 about 7:23 p.m. Cuchiara also was cited for operating a vehicle with suspended registration. Cuchiara was released from the scene and given a future court date.

May 26

Jessy Mefford, 32, of Freeport, was arrested for driving while license revoked, obstructing a peace officer, no insurance, expired registration and active warrants out of Whiteside and Winnebago counties after a traffic stop in the 5000 block of Illinois Route 251 about 11:54 a.m. He was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond.

May 27

Billy Wilson, 34, of Rockford, was arrested for driving while license suspended after a traffic stop in the 9000 block of east Illinois Route 72 about 7:08 a.m. His vehicle was towed from the scene. Wilson was released from the scene on an I-Bond. Jeremy Harnish, 47, of Freeport, was arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol after deputies, the Forreston Police Department, Forreston Fire Protection District and EMS and Shannon EMS responded to a two-vehicle crash at Coffman Road and Illinois Route 26 about 2:45 p.m. Harnish also was cited for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident, failure to stop at an intersection and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. He was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond. The driver and occupants of the second vehicle were transported by Forreston EMS and Shannon EMS to FHN Memorial

Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

Justin Dueringer, 35, of Kings, was arrested for driving while license revoked after a traffic stop in the 4000 block of Queens Road about 5:20 p.m. He was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond.

Kaci L. Woodard, 38, of Shannon, was arrested for driving while license suspended after a traffic stop in the 2000 block of North Freeport Road at 5:40 p.m. Woodard also was cited for operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Woodard was released on an I-Bond and given a future court date.

Jose Aguilar-Benitez, 29, of Belvidere, was arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol after a traffic stop on Interstate 39 mile marker 107 northbound about 11:11 p.m. He also was cited for improper lane use, improper turn signal and no splash guards when required. Aguilar-Benitez was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond.

May 28

About 10:30 a.m., deputies, Mt. Morris police and the Mt. Morris Fire Protection District and EMS responded to a report of a motorcycle crash in the 3700 block of west Illinois Route 64. An investiga-

tion determined that Isaac Kaltenbrun, 18, of Mt. Morris, was illegally towing a motorcycle operated by James Kaltenbrun, 47, of Mt. Morris, when James Kaltenbrun lost control and crashed into the north shoulder of Route 64. James Kaltenbrun was transported to KSB Hospital in Dixon for non-life-threatening injuries. The incident remains under investigation.

Andrew Swift, 36, of Mt. Morris, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine less than 5 grams (Class 3 felony), possession of drug paraphernalia and an active Lee County failure-to-appear theft warrant after a traffic stop in the 7000 block of west Illinois Route 64 about 7:35 p.m. He was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held pending a court appearance.

May 29

About 12:51 a.m., deputies and Lynn-Scott-Rock Fire Protection District and EMS responded to a two-vehicle crash involving a bicycle at the intersection of Illinois Route 251 and Rolling Meadows Road. An investigation determined Amanda Wallin, 40, of Davis Junction, was driving a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder south on Route 251. Wallin attempted to turn east onto Rolling Meadows Road, at which time she struck a bicyclist, Dong Kim, 61, of Des Plaines, who was traveling north through the intersection of Route 251 and Rolling Meadows Road. Kim was transported to SwedishAmerican Hospital for minor injuries. Wallin was cited for failure to yield at an intersection and given a future court date.

Note:Arrestslistedareaccusations andthedefendantispresumedinnocent unlessprovedguiltyinacourtoflaw.

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

PUBLIC WORKS

The Village of Mt Morris is s eeking a candidate for full-time employment for Public Work s. Qualified candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and should possess working knowledge of operating and maintaining equipment and good public relations. The candidate must be 18 years or older and reside within the Mt. Morris Fire Protection District A valid driver's license is required upon hire, a class B/CDL must be obtained within a reasonable amount of time. This position includes a competitive salary and benefits. You will be required to clear a background check prior to employment

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Mt.

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, OREGON, I LLINOIS MIDFIRST BANK PLAINTIFF, -vsUnknown Heirs and/or Legatees of Joseph Vodak a/k/a Joseph T. Vodak, Deceased; Deborah J. Baugus, as Independent Administrator of the Estate of Joseph Voda k a/k/a Joseph T. Vodak, Deceased; Deborah J. Baugus; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD C LAIMANTS; UNKN OWN OCCUPAN TS DEFENDANTS

NO. 22 FC 36

NOTICE OF SHE RIFF'S SALE

Public Notice is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment entered in the above entitled matter on December 16, 2022;

Brian R VanVickle, Sheriff, Ogle County Public Safety Complex, 202 South 1st Street, Oregon, IL 61061, will on June 23, 2023 at 10:00 AM, at Sheriff's Office, 202 South First Street, Oregon IL 61061, sel l to the highest bidder for ten per cent (10%) at the time of sale and the balance within twenty-four (24) hours , the following desc ribed premises situated in Ogle County, Illinois.

Sai d sale shall be subject to general taxes, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate and any prior liens or 1st Mortgages. The subject property is offered for sale without any representation as to qua lity or quantity of title or recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition.

Upon the sale being held and the purchaser tendering s aid bid in certified funds, a receipt of Sale will be issued and/o r a Certificate of Sale as required, which will entitle the purchaser to a deed upon confirmation of said sale by the Court.

Sai d property is legally described as follows:

Commonly known as 5839 Indian Trail, Rochelle, IL 61068

Per manent Index No.: 24-17-352-009

Improvements: Single Family Residential

The property will NOT be open for inspection prior to the sale and Plaintiff makes no repres entation as to the condition of the property.

The judgment amount was $281,262.24. Prospective purchasers are admonished to check the court file and title records to veri fy this information.

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SE CTION 15-1701 (C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

For Bid Amount contact:

Sale Clerk LOGS Legal Group LLP

2121 Waukegan Road, Suite 301 Bannockburn, IL 60015

ILNOTICES@logs.com

(847) 291-1717

MidFirst Bank

One of Plaintiff's Attorneys LOGS Legal Group LLP

Attorney for Plaintiff

2121 Waukegan Road, Suite 301

Bannockburn, IL 60015 (847) 291-1717

ILNOTICES@logs.com

Randal S Berg (6277119)

Michael N. Burke (6291435)

Christopher A. Cieniawa (6187452)

Michael Kal kowski (6185654)

Laura J. Ande rs on (6224385)

Mallory Snyderman (6306039)

Thomas Belcz ak (6193705)

Debra Miller (6205477)

Amy Aronson (6206512)

THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURP OSE. PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT IF YOUR PERSONAL LIABILITY FOR THIS DEBT HAS BE EN EXTINGUIS HE D BY A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY OR BY AN ORDER GRANTING IN REM RELIEF FROM STAY, THIS NOTICE IS PROVIDED SOLELY TO FORECLOSE THE MORTGAGE REMAINING ON YOUR PROPERTY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT THE DISCHARGED PERSONAL OBLIGA TION

May 19, 26, 2023

THOMAS SUITS, P.C.

114 West Mason Street Polo, IL 61064

(815) 946-2276

tom@suitslegal com

June 2, 9, 16, 2023

STATE OF ILLINOIS )SS COUNTY OF OGLE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: ROBERT A. STORMONT II

Deceased, CASE NO 2023 PR 4

CLAIM NOTICE

NOTICE is given of the death of ROBERT A STORMONT II. Letters of Office were issued on January 25, 2023, to VIRGINIA

L. STORMONT, c/o 7124 Windsor Lake Parkway, Loves Park, IL 61111, who is the legal representative of the estate

The attorney for the esta te is JEREMY RAMSEY, 7124 Windsor Lake Parkway, Loves Park, IL 61111.

Claims against the estate may be filed on or before December 1, 2023, that date being at least six (6) months from the date of first publication or wi thin three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing or del ivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probat e Act, 1975, as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above shall be barred.

Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Ogle County Circuit Clerk-Probate Div. at the Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, Suite #300, Oregon, Illinois 61061 or with the esta te legal representative, or both

Copies of claims filed with the Circuit Clerk's OfficeProbate Division, must be mailed or delivered to the estate legal representative and to his/her attorney wi thin ten days after i t has been filed.

DATED: May 9, 2023

Copies of claims filed with the Circuit Clerk's OfficeProbate Division, must be mailed or delivered to the estate legal representative and to his/her attorney wi thin ten days after i t has been filed.

DATED:

May 9, 2023

VIRGINIA L STORMONT

Name: JEREMY RAMSEY

ARDC Number: # 6276765 Attorney for Estate

Addre ss: 7124 Windsor Lake Parkway Loves Park, IL 61111 Telephone: (815) 988-4364

May 19, 26, June 2, 2023

TAKE NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 2019-00040

TO:

Alejan dro Salgado

Elizabeth Salgado

Alejan dro Salgado

Alejan dro Salgado

Elizabeth Salgado

Ogle County Clerk

Occupant

Alejan dro Salgado

Elizabeth Salgado

Elizabeth Salgado

Persons in occupancy or actual possession of said property; Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots

A Petition for Tax Deed on premise described below has been filed with the Circuit Clerk of OGLE County, IL as Case No. 2023TX10

The Property is loca ted at:

308 E North St., Creston IL Property Index Number: 25-23-279-003

Said Property was sold on 11/4/2020 for Delinquent Real Estate Taxes and/or Special Assessments for the year 2019. The period of redemption will expire on 9/13/2023. On 10/04/2023 at 9:00

AM the Petitioner wi ll make application to such Court in said County for an Order for Issuance of a Tax Deed

Realtax Devel opers LTD, Petitioner 10701-932903

May 19, 26, 2023

June 2, 2023 (932903)

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that a publ ic hearing wi ll be held before the Oregon Planning Commission on June 20th, 2023, prior to the Planning Meeting

This meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. This hearing is to consider a Special Use application for a short-term renta l submitted by Jordan and Morgan Williams for property located at 707 Monroe Street, Oregon, Illinois 61061 (PIN 16-04289-005)

To join the City of Oregon's virtual Public Heari ng on June 20th, 2023, look for the l ink at https://cityoforeg on.org/planningcommission-agen da-and-minutes/ on the City's home page at Cityoforeg on.org Per sons wi th disabilities or non-English speaking persons who wi sh to attend the public heari ng and need assistance should contact City Hall at 115 N 3rd Street Oregon, IL 61061, 815-7326321 Every effort wi ll be made to make reasonabl e accommodations for these persons.

June 2, 2023

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT FOR OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOISCHANCE RY DIVISION CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. MARIE SLAUGHTER; et al., Defendants

Case No.: 2023FC31

Prop erty Addres s: 11694 E Kyte Rd, Rochelle, IL 61068

NOTICE BY PUBLICATION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO THE FOLLOWIN G, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS defendants, that this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendants, asking for the foreclosure of a certa in Mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to wit:

NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS

defendants, that this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendants, asking for the foreclosure of a certa in Mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to wit:

LOT 4 IN JERRY SEEBACH'S SUBDIVISION IN A PART OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 16, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANG E 1 EAST OF THE 3RD P.M. ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN BOOK K OF PLATS, PAGE 78, IN THE RECORDER'S OFFICE IN OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

Commonly known as:

11694 E Kyte Rd, Rochelle, IL 61068

Names of the titleholders of record: Marie Slaughter; Kerry Slaughter

Date of the Mortgage: November 3, 2020.

Name or names of the mortgagors: Marie Slaughter; Kerry Slaughter

Name of the mortgagee: MORTGAGE RESEARCH CENTER, LLC d/b/a Veterans United Home Loans.

Date and place of recording: November 16, 2020; Office of the Recorder of the Deeds of Ogle County, Illinois.

Identification of recording: Document No. 202008847.

NOW THEREFORE, unless you file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case, on or before July 5, 2023, A JUDGMENT OR DECREE BY DEFAULT MAY BE TAKEN AGAINST YOU FOR THE RELIEF ASKED IN THE COMPLAINT. E-filing is now mandatory with limited exceptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit http://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://illinoiscourts. gov/self-help or talk with your local circuit clerk's office If you file

http://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://illinoiscourts.

gov/self-help or talk with your local circuit clerk's office If you cannot e-file, you may be able to get an exemption that allows you to file in-person or by mail. Ask your circuit clerk for more informati on or visit www.illinoislegal aid.org. For information about defending yourself in a court cas e (including filing an appearance or fee waiver), or to apply for free legal hel p, go to www.illinoislegal aid.org You can also ask your local circuit clerk's office for a fee waiver application PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT, THE PLAI NTIFF'S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Lender Legal PLLC 2807 Edgewater Drive Orlando, Florida 32804 Tel: (407) 730-4644 Service Emails: cweldon@ lenderlegal.com EService@ LenderLegal.com LLS11499-ILSLAUGHTER _s/ Christopher Weldon, Esq.__ Christopher Weldon, Esq. Counsel of Record for Plaintiff ARDC # 6287653 I3221120

June 2, 9, 16, 2023

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