Mt_Morris_Times-06-13-2025 by Shaw Media

Parading around

Leaf River Daze Parade caps three-day festival in Leaf River / 3

Crimes and courts

Jurors determine 75-year-old Stillman Valley man still is a “sexually dangerous person” / 5

Earleen Hinton

MT. MORRIS TIMES

TIMES

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Flag Day ceremony in Mt. Morris

The Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center, 9 E. Front St. in Mt. Morris, will host a Flag Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. Friday, June 13.

Oregon Chamber of Commerce Director Chance Monroe will be the speaker. Serenity Hospice and Home will honor all veterans who are present.

Enjoy a free hot dog lunch after the ceremony. All are welcome at the event!

First installment of Ogle County tax bills due June 13

OREGON – Ogle County Collector Tiffany O’Brien is reminding property owners that the first installment of their property tax bill is due Friday, June 13. Payment methods include cash, check (payable to Ogle County Collector) or credit card. In-person payments can be made at the

MT. MORRIS LIBRARY

Library closed June 19

The library will be closed on Thursday, June 19, for the Juneteenth holiday.

Library hours

Library hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.

Thank You!

Thank you to all of our wonderful patrons who dropped donations into our Summer Reading Programming jar on the counter. Your donations added up to more than $235. What a wonderful way for everyone to start the summer!

Level Up at Your Library, 1 p.m. June 16

Come to the library at 1 p.m. Monday, June 16, to read books and learn about outdoor games. Meet local P.E. teacher Mr. Elliott. The program is available to everyone, regardless of having a library card. Summer Reading Program Schedule for June 16-21

Games! program, 1 p.m. Monday, June 16 (raffle ticket)

Drop-In Craft Monday, 2 to 6 p.m. June 16 (while supplies last)

Grab-N-Go, Tuesday through Saturday, June 17-21 (while supplies last)

Treasurer’s office located in the old Ogle County Courthouse, 105 S. Fifth St., Oregon, or at any bank in Ogle County.

Hours at the Treasurer’s office 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 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’s office also is offering the option of online payments.

“You may get to this site by going to www.oglecountyil.gov and then selecting the Treasurer’s department,“ she said. ”Choose the Online Tax Payments link and click the Pay Nowbutton. 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.”

Auditions for ‘Tapestry of Shadows’ are June 25-26

MT. MORRIS – The Performing Arts Guild invites the public to open auditions for their fall performance of “Tapestry of Shadows,” a theatrical tribute to Edgar Allan Poe. Show dates are Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 10-12, at the Allure of Pinecrest Grove Theatre.

Auditions will be from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, June 25 and 26, at the Allure of Pinecrest Grove Library, 500 Evergreen Lane, Mt. Morris. For more information, visit the Performing Arts Guild Facebook Page or leave a message at 815-734-2103.

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Pre-School Story Time, 11:15 a.m. Wednesday, June 18

Salsa! 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 25

Come by for a fun evening of salsa making. Master Gardeners Phil and Marcia will be here to make appetizers with the bounty from an easy garden. A salsa garden can be grown in pots, too. Registration is available on the Mt. Morris Facebook or events page.

Lego Night, 6 p.m. Thursday, June 26

Bring the family out for some awesome brick building.

Hot spots available

The library has hot spots available to check out for use at home. These are available to Mt. Morris library card holders and can checked out for 14 days. Get more information from a librarian if you would like to use this free service.

Book donations welcome

Our book sale was a great success because of all of your wonderful donations. We are accepting donations again for the next book sale. If you have any media you no longer need or want, bring it to the Mt. Morris library. We cannot accept textbooks, encyclopedias, Reader’s Digest condensed

CORRECTIONS

Accuracy is important to the Mt. Morris Times. Please call errors to our attention by email at news@oglecountynews.com.

books, VHS tapes or audio cassettes. Lions Club glasses and hearing aids collections

Donation boxes for eyeglass recycling are available at the library. When the boxes are full, they are picked up by local Lions members and dropped off at collection depots. These recycled eyeglasses are given to people in need with the help of medical missionaries in Central America and South America and around the world. When the eyeglasses arrive in these countries, doctors and technicians conduct eye exams and provide a free pair of prescription eyeglasses that are as close as possible to that person’s sight needs. When donating hearing aids, please be sure to place them in a small box or hard-covered case so they do not get crushed or damaged.

Additional services

We make copies for 25¢ per black and white page. We fax for $2 for the first page and 50¢ for each additional page. We can scan a document and send it to email for $2 per document. You can use a computer without a library card for $1. Resume software is available on our computers. Come visit us and let us help you.

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Leaf River Daze Parade

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

2 p.m. Sunday, June 8. The

LEAF RIVER – A quick downpour didn’t stop the Leaf River Daze Parade from stepping off at

parade capped the threeday festival in Leaf River.

Photos by Earleen Hinton

TOP LEFT: A Leaf River firefighter tosses candy to the crowd during the Leaf River Daze Parade on June 8 in Leaf River. TOP RIGHT: The Forreston High School marching band participates in the Leaf River Daze Parade. ABOVE: Antique tractors are part of the Leaf River Daze Parade. LEFT: Children wait for candy during the Leaf River Daze Parade.

A family gathering on the Mississippi River

It was reunion time on the Mississippi River at Cape Girardeau and I had been anticipating getting together for many weeks. This is when I see my family and all my first cousins. This is my birthplace.

Krista and her husband, Jim, arrived on Thursday from Wisconsin and I sent them over to our farmers market for the first one of the season. They were to get some of Beth’s orange rolls for our breakfast on Friday morning before we left for Cape Girardeau.

All night long I dreamed of orange rolls and the next morning they did not disappoint me. They were delicious and large.

We left early the next morning and at St. Louis our usual route around the big city was closed so we headed south through Bellville and Redbud where we had lunch. We crossed the Mississippi River at Chester and they are building a new bridge.

Betty Obendorf POLO HISTORY

I remember the times we crossed the river on the ferry at Chester when I was a little girl. It was usually late at night and it was a little scary out on the water at night. But my aunt and uncle lived north of Cape Girardeau in the country and that was a shorter route.

Years later when we crossed at Chester – over the bridge that time – and headed up through the peach orchards, we stopped at a farm to buy some peaches. It was late July and I commented to the girl at the stand how we crossed the river on the ferry when I was a little girl. She said, “My grandfather ran the ferry.” How neat was that to actually visit with her.

We pulled into Cape Girardeau late in

the afternoon and went straight downtown to the Zickfield’s Jewelry store. My uncle started this store more than 80 years ago and this usually is our first stop when we get to the Cape. I met my brother from Paducah, Kentucky, at the store and with the help of his wife, Rebecca, I wanted to buy some jewelry for my great-niece and my great-granddaughter.

Claire and Holly have such a good time at the reunion together and I wanted them to have something from the family jewelry store. I always loved shopping at the store when I would be at the Cape.

This time they were having Christmas in July and I resisted buying Christmas stuff since I have so much already.

When we arrived at the Drury Hotel, my cousins were arriving from all over. Janet and her daughters from Alabama and Steve and Gloria from near the Chesapeake Bay River in the East proba-

bly are the farthest away.

I had 10 first cousins there and I only see them every two years. With all the cousins and their families from the Cape area and all my family, we had 60 people this year.

It takes much effort by my daughter Krista, my brother, David, and two of my cousins in Cape Girardeau to put all of this together. We have a great time and are sad when we leave but with Facetime we keep in touch with the family.

I am now back home and this morning before Krista and Jim left for Wisconsin, we finished the last of the orange rolls.

I will unpack slowly and think about the time we spent on the Mississippi River in Cape Girardeau.

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

Information sought about developers of ‘Ogle County Hall of Fame’

This list contains the names of individuals in the “Ogle County Hall of Fame” that was dropped off to me at the Oregon Depot.

If anyone knows the organization or group of Ogle County residents responsible for the list, please let me know.

I am working on a one-page pamphlet giving more information for each person listed and their photo.

Ogle County Hall of Fame, established 1976

Ruth Hanna McCormick, U.S. representative

Charles Andrew, nationally known authority on bridges

Frank Lowden, 25th governor of Illinois

Otto Dick OGLE COUNTY HISTORY

Lorado Taft, creator of the Eternal Indian “Black Hawk Statue” and Soldiers Sailors Memorial monument

Grandma Burright, Harness racing queen

Thomas Ford, eighth governor of Illinois

E.D. Etnyre, founder of Etnyre Manufacturing Co.

Augusta Cottlow, world-renowned pianist

Carlton Crowell, 2013 Army Sports

Hall of Fame

Robert R. Hitt, 1882 U.S. House of Representatives

Harry and Harvey Kable, founders of Kable Bros. Co.

J.C. Seyster, prominent Oregon attorney

John Phelps, founded Oregon in 1836

John and Charles Farwell, brothers who massed personal fortunes in Chicago

John Deere, inventor of the first self-scouring steel plow

James Cartwright, Illinois Supreme Court

James Austin Butterfield, an American composer

Judson Bemis, founder of Bemis Inc.

Theodore Johnson, New Deal artist during the Great Depression

Landers and Loomis, world track team champions

Nelson Potter, professional baseball pitcher

Benjamin Sheets, Illinois senator

Albert G. Spalding, Boston pitcher (253 wins, 70 losses), started sporting goods business

Wood Brothers, Wood Brothers Manufacturing Co.

Stan Hack, Chicago Cubs, batting average .301

• Otto Dick is a retired teacher and has researched Ogle County history for several years.

Great volunteers, donations add up to success at Chana School Museum benefit sale

By CONNIE STAUFFER Chana School Museum

The 28th annual benefit sale for the Chana School Museum on May 30-31once again was beyond expectations.

Volunteers ranged in age from 9 to

80+. Great men and women worked throughout the week setting up the Oregon Coliseum and receiving donations from the community.

Boy Scout Troop 52 helped with the event by carrying and setting up tables. Coach Justin Lahman and other coaches of the Oregon wrestlers worked on drop-

off day carrying small and big items downstairs to the lower level of the Coliseum.

The Grand Detour Greens 4-H group helped on the final organizing day before the sale by packaging hangers, sorting items and doing other tasks.

The Ganymedes vintage baseball

players helped at the end of the sale by putting tables away and carrying items out of the Coliseum.

Many other individuals from area communities also stepped forward to help this year.

Jurors: Stillman Valley man still a ‘sexually dangerous person’

75-year-old to remain in prison

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

OREGON – It took an Ogle County jury only 15 minutes June 4 to determine that a 75-year-old Stillman Valley man still is a sexually dangerous person and should remain in prison.

The seven-woman, five-man jury ruled against Ray Allen Gough’s arguments that he is no longer sexually dangerous because of his “self-control” and “self-discipline” while being held in custody since 1999.

Instead, jurors concurred with a psychologist who testified Gough had a “pedophilic disorder” with a proclivity for prepubescent males and had refused to undergo any treatment for the mental disorder during his many years of imprisonment.

“This is a straightforward case,” Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock told the jurors in his opening statement. “The defendant has already been adjudicated to be a sexually dangerous person. You are here to determine if the state has proven that he remains sexually dangerous or if he has recovered.”

Rock said Gough has never participated in counseling or treatment programs for sex offenders while imprisoned at Big Muddy Correctional Center in Ina, Illinois, 331 miles south of Ogle County.

“He [Gough] has refused to do anything while he has been incarcerated as a sex offender,” Rock said. “Despite his condition, he refuses to do anything. He is not interested in programs designed to reduce his risk to reoffend.

“The defendant has been diagnosed with pedophilic disorder ... sexually attracted to males,” Rock said. “It is substantially probable that he will commit future acts if he is not confined in a secure structure. This defendant remains a sexually dangerous person.”

Gough was charged in 1997 with the aggravated criminal sexual abuse of a 6-year-old male. He pleaded guilty to that charge and was sentenced to three years probation and 180 days in jail.

In October 1999, he was charged with four counts of the aggravated criminal sexual abuse of two boys, ages 7 and 12.

He pleaded not guilty to those charges, but the Ogle County State’s Attorney’s Office – then under the direction of Doug Floski – petitioned the court to commit Gaugh as a sexually danger-

ous person through a civil action under Illinois’ Sexually Dangerous Persons Act.

Under that act, sexually dangerous persons are defined as a person suffering from a mental disorder that has existed for a period of not less than one year, coupled with “criminal propensities to the commission of sex offenses” and “acts of sexual assault or acts of sexual molestation of children.”

An Ogle County jury determined Gough was sexually dangerous in November 2000 and he was sentenced to prison until he is deemed to not be sexually dangerous.

Gough petitioned the court to reconsider that decision and in November 2024 a jury trial was held and he was again found to be sexually dangerous.

Gough served as his own attorney during this trial, often referring to himself in the third person. He told jurors he was “truly sorry” and “remorseful” for his crimes and had been incarcerated for more than 24 years.

“No fantasies, no sex ... sober, sober, sober and celibate, celibate, celibate,” he said, crediting his “self-control” and “self-discipline.”

Gough claimed former defense attorneys and prosecutors, as well as all other court officials, all had sabotaged and conspired against his efforts for release.

“This is my second application for discharge. The taxpayers deserve all of Gough’s evidence. Gough may not be very good at law, but at least he is honest,” Gough said.

Lee County Judge Matthew T. Klahn admonished Gough many times during the course of the trial after he made statements that were not tied to evidence or were outside the scope of the trial.

Klahn also warned Gough that he would hold him in contempt of court if he continued to make personal attacks against Rock, witnesses or any other court officials.

“I will hold you in contempt,” Klahn told Gough. “If you were a lawyer, you’d already be going away in handcuffs for insulting the court ... not me as a person, the institution. Stop insulting everyone.”

Two prosecution witnesses, Sarah

Brown-Foiles, manager of sex offender services for the Illinois Department of Corrections, and Kristopher Claunch, a psychologist, both testified that Gough had refused to participate in treatments available for sex offenders.

Claunch, a psychologist who specializes in sexually dangerous person cases, works for Wexford Health Services, the private company contracted by the IDOC that provides evaluations of sexual offenders.

Claunch said he evaluated Gough in 2021 and 2025 after reviewing police reports, court records and making attempts at interviews. He said Gough was unwilling to answer most questions posed to him during interviews.

Claunch said Gough characterized questions directed to his past as “60-year-old” or “antique” questions.

“Since 1999, he has not participated in any sex offender treatment,” said Claunch, adding the treatments were designed to help offenders control their “thoughts and fantasies” so they did not offend again.

“He [Gough] did nothing. He was unwilling to answer any questions about treatment. He would not discuss psychiatric conditions or mental health,” Claunch said.

Claunch diagnosed Gough as having a pedophilic disorder, which is a mental disorder characterized by an inability to control sexual fantasies directed at young boys. He said in addition to the three boys Gough was charged with sexually abusing, two others, although older, also came forward, alleging sexual abuse encounters.

Claunch said Gough likely would reoffend if released.

“He believes the world is against him,” Claunch said. “He responds with hostilities when people try and work with him.

“Mr. Gough remains a sexually dangerous person who is likely to reoffend if not confined,” Claunch said.

Under cross-examination, Claunch said Gough’s claim that he had not had sex while in prison was not applicable since his proclivity was for young boys.

“There are no children who have access to you in prison,” Claunch told Gough.

Gough accused Claunch of asking questions to “entrap” him and questioned the validity and accuracy of data and authors of that data that Claunch provided as his basis for diagnoses and treatments for sex offenders.

“None of the questions I ask are for entrapment,” Claunch responded.

Gough called himself as his only witness.

“I hurt a lot of people. I am truly sorry. I am no longer a sexually dangerous person,” he told the jury.

Gough then attempted to read a preprepared, written statement as his testimony. It was objected by Rock, who argued Gough’s comments were not in response to prosecution witnesses’ testimony and did not pertain to the case at hand – his status as a sexually dangerous person.

The objection was upheld by Klahn, who again admonished Gough when he accused the court of “kicking his evidence to the curb” claiming he had “won that battle with emotional control.”

“You just can’t make this into a narrative that you want,” Klahn said.

Gough criticized the IDOC’s sex offender program and claimed he had sent requests to participate in treatments. He also said treatment sessions often were canceled.

“I sent five requests. I was completely ignored,” Gough said, adding he also has to put up with the “garbage” of transgender inmates dressing in women’s clothing.

As proof of his self-control, Gough said he had saved money during his time in prison and had abstained from buying “junk food” through the prison’s commissary.

Under questioning by Rock, Gough said he didn’t have to take part in treatment while in prison because “I don’t have to do it there. I have it in my mind.”

In her closing argument, Assistant State’s Attorney Heather Kruse reiterated that Gough had never taken part in any treatment that was specifically designed to help offenders not commit future crimes.

“He’s done nothing. He never participated. He never started,” Kruse said. “After his incarceration there has been no participation whatsoever. This is bigger than not buying junk for a year. This is about sex offenses of boys. He [Gough] has done nothing to address that, nothing at all. He has not recovered. He remains sexually dangerous. He has the propensity to commit again.”

“That’s quite the spiel,” Gough replied in his closing argument. “I know people who have quit smoking and alcohol without treatment. I do have emotional control despite what anyone thinks.

Ray A. Gough

Judge denies Byron man’s request for lighter sentence for sexually assaulting young girls

Defense attorney argued 25 years was a ‘death sentence’

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

OREGON – An Ogle County judge denied a Byron man’s request Monday for a lighter prison sentence for sexually assaulting two young girls, ruling against a defense argument that 25 years in prison was “a death sentence.”

Duane Upchurch, 60, who was found guilty three years ago of sexually assaulting two young girls in 2004 and 2008 and sentenced in April to a total of 25 years in prison, will continue to serve that sentence at the Big Muddy Correctional Center in Ina, Illinois, Judge John “Ben” Roe ruled.

Monday’s decision comes two months after Roe ordered Upchurch to serve two consecutive 12-year, six-month sentences in the Illinois Department of Corrections after an emotional sentencing hearing at the Ogle County Judicial Center.

The sentence came despite pleas from Upchurch’s attorney, Stephen Komie of Chicago, that a lesser sentence was warranted based on Uphurch’s age, medical condition and lack of previous criminal history.

But two victims that Upchurch was found guilty of assaulting tearfully told Roe that the defendant had scarred them for life and was a “predatory monster” who should be put behind bars.

On Monday, Komie argued that Roe had erred in sentencing Upchurch and questioned language used in the sentencing order.

“The age of the defendant is key,” said Komie who appeared in court via Zoom. “It [the sentence] is effectively a death sentence no matter how you cut it.”

Komie said a shorter sentence of six to 10 years would be “more than enough.”

• GOUGH

Continued from page 5

“The last 24 years I have taken care of myself,” he said. “I don’t know what else I can do to convince you to let me out.” Rock said Gough’s comments were

In his motion to reconsider the sentence, Komie argued that Upchurch’s sentence of 25 years, to be served at 85%, was “cruel and unusual punishment” not intended by state law for “death or life imprisonment” for those found guilty of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child.

Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock disagreed.

“These are two sentences to be served consecutively for 25 years at 85%,” Rock said. “His parole date would be July 30, 2043.”

Rock said language in the sentencing order was correct.

“The sentences are to run consecutively of one another. It is correct,” Rock said.

Roe agreed and denied Komie’s motion.

“I understand both arguments. I stand by my decision,” Roe said.

Komie then asked Roe to ensure that all transcripts of sentencing hearings be sent to him for preparation of an intended appeal.

The charges

Upchurch was found guilty in May 2022 of two counts of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child in 2004 and 2008, both Class X felonies, and two counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, Class 2 felonies, with both girls being under the age of 13 when the crimes occurred.

Upchurch was found not guilty of two counts of predatory criminal sexual assault – one in July 2005 and 2008 and the other in September 2004 and 2008.

Upchurch was arrested Aug. 8, 2019, by Ogle County sheriff’s deputies after an investigation by the Ogle County

just a “list of grievances.”

“He refers to his young victims as ‘mistakes,’ ” Rock said. “He’s ‘cured’ because he’s told you he’s cured. This is an individual with a disorder. He’s still dangerous. He needs to stay in a structured, secure facility. Otherwise others will be at risk.”

Sheriff’s Office that began in March 2019. He was charged in August 2019 for the offenses, which prosecutors said occurred in September 2004 and 2008.

He posted bond and was released pending his trial in 2022. He had been held in the Ogle County Jail since the 2022 trial while his sentencing hearing was delayed several times for post-trial motions and responses.

April 11 sentencing

About a dozen people were in a packed courtroom in support of the victims on April 11 while about 20 came to show their support for Upchurch.

Two victims told Roe how Upchurch’s assaults had affected their lives.

“How do you quantify the impact of abuse,” one of the women asked when reading her victim impact statement. “As an 8-year-old, he made me feel disgusting. I struggled with self-worth, depression ... crippling anxiety. He abused and traumatized numerous children. The justice here today will not fix the damage.”

The other woman said Upchurch assaulted her numerous times when she was 5 to 6 years old and told the court it took her 19 years before she could face coming forward about the incidents.

“The abuse and rape has shifted everything for me,” she said. “I’m telling my truth today to protect other children. He is a vile child predator. I am no longer a weak, scared little girl. This predatory monster deserves life behind bars. He has a sick and disgusting attraction to children.”

Komie presented one witness in mitigation – Dr. Pedro De Guzman, a physician who examined Upchurch in the Ogle County Jail’s clinic in March.

Guzman, an internist, said Upchurch had high blood pressure and other health concerns that could result in a stroke or heart attack if not treated correctly.

Asked by Komie to give a prognosis for Upchurch, Guzman replied: “It would be

The June 4 trial was the culmination of Gaugh’s second application seeking release. He can appeal the jury’s decision within 30 days.

“We are very relieved and pleased with the job that the jurors did,” Rock said after the jury’s decision. “This is my third trial involving this defendant. I did

a bad prognosis.”

Rock said lives had been forever changed by the actions of the defendant.

“They [victims] are haunted by what happened to them at such a young age,” Rock said. “He repeatedly raped them.”

Rock said the victims were “recounting the horrors” while Upchurch “focuses on multiple women who he says wanted to hurt him.”

“He takes no responsibility,” Rock said. “This defendant took away their innocence at a very young age. We demand that this defendant never has access to a child again.”

Rock recommended Upchurch be sentenced to 25 years in prison on each of the Class X offenses and four to six years on the other charges.

“We are well aware of the defendant’s age. The state does not want this defendant to be in the community ever again where he can perpetrate these horrors again,” Rock said.

Asked by Roe if he wanted to make a statement to the court, Upchurch declined.

Judge’s sentence

Roe recessed the hearing for an hour while he reviewed arguments, testimony and evidence presented at the hearing, including the victim witness statements and written character statements.

He acknowledged Upchurch had minimal criminal history.

“He has led a law-abiding life for a substantial time,” Roe said. “We did hear from victims that were here this afternoon and one other person. It’s all very relevant to me. There were powerful statements from the victims. I have to balance what is appropriate with what is just.

“This was an emotional case from the start to the finish,” Roe continued. “And I weigh that with the lifelong trauma of the victims. And when I do so, this is what I believe is appropriate.”

the first jury trial where he was declared sexually dangerous. That was back in 2014. I did his recovery petition, a jury trial, three years ago, and now this one.”

“I am pleased, as well. The community will be safer,” Kruse said.

Rock said Gough could apply for release again in two years.

Duane Upchurch

Trail run, kids’ activities planned for Infinity Event in Chana

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

CHANA – The Maggie & Amos Foundation’s annual Infinity Event is Saturday, June 14, at the Rochelle Wildlife Conservation Club in Chana.

The event is held in memory of Maggie Rosko and her son Amos and brings people together to enjoy outdoor fun while supporting local education efforts.

Planned activities include:

815 Twin City Baggers competitive and recreational cornhole bags tournament: Enter a competitive or casual division of the bags tournament for cash prizes. The tournament starts at 11 a.m. and is open to players of all levels.

Live music: Catch live performances from The Killer B’s from noon to 3 p.m., followed by an evening combined performance from Burn n’ Bush and The Vodka Boys from 7 to 10 p.m.

“Running Wild” trail run: Take part in the “Running Wild” 5K(ish) trail run or a 1-mile paved walk starting at 4 p.m. The trail offers a mix of terrain. The walk is stroller-friendly. Register at runsignup.com/Race/IL/Chana/InfinityRun.

All Ages Treasure Orb Scavenger Hunt: A free and fun-for-all-ages scavenger hunt around the entire property of The Rochelle Conservation Club with cash prizes and more! Starts at 1 p.m.

Kids’ activities: A free area for kids will include bounce houses, yard games, crafts, the Kid’s Hill Climb at 3 p.m. and a bubble fest with Bubble Master Jason Kollum from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Silent auction: Browse and bid on donated items. Proceeds go toward educational grants and scholarships.

Food and drinks: Grilled treats will be available throughout the day with beverages of choice provided by mobile bar

The Gypsy Filly (cash preferred). The Rochelle Wildlife Conservation Club will host its monthly Saturday Night Steak Fry starting at 6 p.m. Reservations can be made by calling 815-6228940 with choices of meal including steak, pork chop and hot dog (each meal includes all sides).

Shirts: Event shirts will be available through Kathy Blume of GameDay Designs. Call her to place an order at 815-509-8426.

The Maggie & Amos Foundation was created in memory of Maggie Rosko, 31, a special education teacher, and her

son, Amos, 3, who died Oct. 19, 2016, in Byron.

Duane C. Meyer, Maggie’s ex-husband and Amos’ father, has been charged with four counts of first-degree murder, two counts of aggravated arson and one count of concealment of a homicidal death. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His case is pending in Ogle County court.

Maggie and Amos were deeply connected to their community and school and the foundation continues their legacy by funding education-based projects and scholarships.

“Its goal is to give back to classrooms and students in meaningful, practical ways to support teachers, encourage learning and help young people succeed,” said Lynn Kalnins, one of the event’s organizers. “Everyone is encouraged to come out, take part in the activities and support a cause that helps our schools and area students.”

To date, more than $55,000 has been awarded to educators and students in the area.

For more details and updates, visit the event page at facebook.com/maggieandamos.

Earleen Hinton file photo

Dane Bell (left), Mara Bell (right) and Mackenzie Turcato (center) run along the lake at the Rochelle Wildlife Conservation Club during the 2024 Infinity Event 5K. This year’s event is Saturday, June 14.

PorchFest bringing live music to Mt. Morris on June 14

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

MT. MORRIS – Porches in Mt. Morris will be filled with music during the eighth annual Encore! PorchFest on Saturday, June 14.

“PorchFest is the ultimate grassroots community music festival. Many favorites from past years, along with some new musicians, will perform 45-minute free 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.”

1 to 2 p.m.

• Goin Postal Unplugged – Dan Elsasser: Classic rock, ballads, country and more, Kalnins’, 111 W. Main St.

• The Magtones: Husband and wife duo who enjoy playing acoustic pop music in an entertaining style, Bold’s, 109 E. Front St.

• Well Strung: Four-member band playing blues, rock ’n’ roll, country and bluegrass, The Center, 9 E. Front St.

• Who Drank All the Tequila – Steve Catron and friends: Acoustic rock with a bluegrass vibe, guitar, bass and mandolin, Labash’s, 305 E. Brayton Road

• Crosswind – Lowell Harp and Harold Harrison: Guitars and vocals, pop, country, and originals, DeWolf’s, 105 E. Center St.

2 to 3 p.m.

• Jeff Elbel + Ping: Jeff and daughter Melody play fun songs for all ages, both original songs and covers. The sound is rooted in acoustic rock ’n’ roll, Collins’, 401 E. Brayton Road

• Denny Jacobs: Easy listening to oldies. Guitar and vocal folk and blues singer, Trinity Lutheran Church, 308 E. Brayton Road

• Louise Price & Kevin O’Neil: Irish, Spanish and traditional folk, Ward’s, 103 S. Clark Ave.

• Barb Sorensen: Original contemporary pop/rock/country-folk-rock, family-friendly, upbeat and positive music, The Mt. Morris Library, 105 S. McKendrie Ave.

• Larry Lambe and Randy Holland: Anything from the 1930 on. Wide variety. Two performers on guitar and harmonica, Haugh’s, 207 W. Center St.

3 to 4 p.m.

• Acoustic Axis: Two acoustic guitars and a drummer. Sitting in this year is

Jeff Elbel singing classic rock, blues and a couple of classic country tunes, Collins’, 401 E. Brayton Road

• RuthAnn Lillstrom: Folk/pop and originals. Singer-songwriter on guitar and vocalist, The Center, 9 E. Front St.

• Ruth Raubertas: Traditional Celtic and original composition classical harp music, the Mt. Morris Library, 105 S. McKendrie Ave.

• Falling West: Family band that delights in playing Irish and old-time dance music. The band includes fiddle, bodhran, hammered dulcimer, guitar, bouzouki and banjo, McKanna’s, 206 E. Center St.

• Korey Pepper: The gritty areas of ’90s grunge and alternative rock, guitar. Singer-songwriter, Taylors, 111 W. Front St.

4 to 5 p.m.

• Denny Diamond: Known for performing the music of Neil Diamond. Mixes in other great classic songs along with a few originals, College Hall, On The Campus, 16 S. Wesley Ave.

• Timber Point: Bluegrass, Lambrigtsen’s, 112 W. Main St.

• Chris Kolling: Playing mostly original songs on the electric guitar and also on the electric dulcimer, DeWolf’s, 105 E. Center St.

• Greg Crull: Blues, country, classic rock, beach music, 110 E. Front St. Schedules with porch locations, music and food information will be available online at EncorePorchFest.info.

For more information about Encore! and Mt. Morris activities, visit EncoreMtMorris.com.

Earleen Hinton file photo

Carol and Dale Collins’ porch on Brayton Road in Mt. Morris will be one of the locations offering live music at the eighth annual Encore! PorchFest on Saturday, June 14.

Rolling Stones tribute band coming to Jamboree on June 20

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

MT. MORRIS – Rocks Off, a Rolling Stones tribute band, is expected to have the Mt. Morris Campus “rockin’” when it premieres at the Mt. Morris Jamboree Concert Series on Friday, June 20.

The concert will be from 7 to 9 p.m.

“Rocks Off is the premier Rolling Stones tribute, delivering the songs and sensations of the world’s greatest rock ’n’ roll band,” said Larry Ubben, Jamboree organizer. “From the iconic hits to the deep cuts, Rocks Off captures Mick’s moves, Keith’s riffs, Charlie’s groove and the blazing Mick Taylor solos from their early ’70s golden era.”

Based in Chicago, the band is steeped in not only the sound of the Rolling Stones, but the sound of the bluesmen and women who inspired them, Ubben said.

Shaw Local News Network file photo Rocks Off, a Rolling Stones tribute band, will perform at the Mt. Morris Jamboree Concert Series on Friday, June 20.

“Rocks Off isn’t shy about claiming the most faithful re-creation of the Rolling Stones in concert and welcomes any skeptics to come listen for themselves. With this band, ‘satisfaction,’ it goes without saying, is guaranteed,” Ubben said.

Concessions for the evening will be provided by both the Let Freedom Ring Committee, which will serve sloppy Joes, hot dogs, chips and drinks, and the Mt. Morris Moose Lodge, which will

serve homemade chicken strips, fries, cheesy fries and drinks.

Ewe and Me Acres will host a farmers market from 4 to 8 p.m., offering fresh produce, baked goods, crafts and more. The market will be every Friday

on the Campus.

“Just 4 Fun Ice Cream will be there and Popcorn Girls Emmie and Lily from the Mt. Morris Center will likely be serving fresh popped corn uptown, too,” Ubben said.

Encore’s Art Gallery and the Mt. Morris Historical Museum will be open during concerts on the Campus as well.

“Please bring a blanket or lawn chair as the benches will likely fill fast and join us on our historical campus, located two blocks south of Illinois Route 64 on Wesley Avenue and enjoy the free rock ’n’ roll concert,” Ubben said.

June 13: Roy Orbison tribute

The Jamboree Concert Series opens Friday, June 13, with a free concert by Rick Lindy and the Wild Ones presenting their Roy Orbison tribute.

Concessions for the evening will be provided by the Evangelical Free Church of Mt. Morris, which will serve pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw, chips, water and baked goods. Hector’s will serve tacos, burritos, nachos, drinks and more starting at 6 p.m.

Middle Rock Conservation acquires 11-acre forest plot in Grand Detour

By PAYTON FELIX pfelix@shawmedia.com

DIXON – Land owners John and Arlene Hildebrand sold their 11-acre plot near Grand Detour to Middle Rock Conservation Partners, a transaction that was celebrated at a dedication May 25.

The couple purchased the site at 2075 Grand Detour Road in Dixon about 40 years ago with the plan to develop it into a subdivision, but they never did. About a year ago, Middle Rock approached Arlene, who’s almost 92 now, about acquiring the property. They negotiated and “the deal was struck,” Arlene’s daughter Susan Gould said in an interview with Shaw Local.

For Arlene, “conservation has always been a passion,” Gould said.

Arlene Hildebrand was a teacher at East Coloma School in Rock Falls for 43 years, where she, along with her third grade students, worked to restore the prairie behind the school. In 2002, she was named Conservation Teacher of the Year by the Whiteside County Soil and Water Conservation District, Gould said.

• BENEFIT SALE

Continued from page 4

Thank you to all these warm-hearted individuals for sharing their time and efforts to make this year’s fundraiser a success.

Getting the word out to the public always is a chore. We would like to thank Sauk Valley Media and the Ogle County Life, which have helped to announce the annual benefit for every year that the Chana School Foundation has done a fundraiser. These newspapers have supported the Chana School Museum project since the beginning in 1997.

Thanks to the city of Oregon for allowing the sale to be held in the Coliseum again this year. The city’s new digital sign at Fifth and Washington

joins other Middle Rock Conservation property.

The 11-acre site, now owned by Middle Rock, has been renamed the John and Arlene Hildebrand Natural Area. Middle Rock plans on clearing invasive trees and plants such as honeysuckle to restore it to a natural forest area, Gould said.

“It’s a beautiful space that is now set aside for future generations to see what the natural forests in this area looked like,” she said.

Middle Rock, established in 2017 as a nonprofit organization, also owns the

Samuel and Edna Hill Preservation Site located along Route 2 between Lost Nation and Grand Detour roads. They bought the more than 90-acre plot in 2019 and have since restored the land as a prairie that’s open to the community for hiking and other passive recreation, according to middlerockconservationpartners.org.

The new 11-acre site will connect to the prairie. It also will feature educational opportunities for kids, where representatives will point out unique features and explain the cycles of plants and animals at the site, Gould said.

During the dedication, a Middle Rock representative pointed out the site’s “shooting star flowers” to the 30 family members and friends who attended the event, Gould said.

“They really were cool. When they come out, it looks like you’re walking through a forest of stars all along the ground,” Gould said.

For her own personal touch, Gould hid a couple of fairies and gnomes under some rocks and an upturned oak tree, “but I tried to keep it as natural as we could,” she said.

streets was an excellent way for the public to read about the event.

We appreciate the city of Oregon’s continued support for the Chana School Foundation and its efforts to save local history.

Finally, thank you to all the members of the public who donated items for the fundraiser and to those who came to the sale to buy items. Everyone went away from the sale happy with their treasures.

The annual benefit sale provides funds that help run the operations of the Chana School Museum. The museum receives no tax money and relies on volunteers, donations and grants. Thank you, Ogle County, for once again supporting the Chana School Foundation’s efforts to keep history alive in our county.

Alex T. Paschal

The John and Arlene Hildebrand Natural Area in Grand Detour was dedicated with a ceremony May 25. The area

Tractors, trucks pull their weight and more at Forreston FFA event

Man

pleads guilty to battery against Polo woman; charge of sexual assault dismissed

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

OREGON – A Markham man will begin serving a 30-day jail sentence June 18 after pleading guilty May 28 to battering a 17-year-old Polo woman during a December 2022 incident.

Armon D. Pearson, 25, was sentenced to 24 months probation after pleading guilty to the misdemeanor offense as he appeared before Judge Anthony Peska.

Pearson’s attorney, Brian Erwin, and Assistant Ogle County State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten told Peska a plea agreement had been reached on a new charge of battery and a felony charge of sexual assault, filed in July 2023, would be dismissed.

Pearson originally was charged with criminal sexual assault of a 17-year-old in Polo on Dec. 13, 2022. He pleaded not guilty Feb. 14, 2023, and requested a jury trial.

Under the new charge, which was

Armon D. Pearson

filed May 28, Pearson is accused of making physical contact of “an insulting or provoking nature” with the woman.

Peska sentenced Pearson to serve 30 days in the Ogle County Jail with credit for six days served.

As part of the probation sentence, Pearson must “cooperate and satisfactorily complete” a domestic violence intervention program, cooperate and complete psychological or substance abuse assessments or treatments and not have any contact – indirectly or directly – with the victim.

Pearson also was ordered to pay $1,039 in fines and court costs in payments of $200 until paid in full.

Pearson was ordered to turn himself in at the jail June 18.

Photos by Earleen Hinton

ABOVE: Steve Little of Rollo makes his run with his IM Case 900 tractor June 7 at the Forreston FFA Alumni Tractor and Truck Pull during Leaf River Daze in Leaf River. Little pulled 279.67 feet in this attempt. LEFT: Roy Book of Morrison drives his Case 2090 tractor at the Forreston FFA Alumni Tractor and Truck Pull. Book pulled 299.75 feet in this attempt.

June 1-7

Warranty deeds

Michael Bailey to Adrian Blancas, 106 Mississippi Drive, Dixon, and 110 Mississippi Drive, Dixon, $8,300.

James Thomason, Marjorie Marge Thomason, Marjorie Thomason and Marge Thomason to David F Thomason, 5773 N. Stillman Road, Stillman Valley, $98,750.

Beardin Farms Inc to Jose Nunez and Edgar Nunez, 18143 E. Hwy 38, Rochelle, $310,000.

Jeffery S Tilton to Jose Leonardo Calvillo, 425 N. 10th St., Rochelle, $161,900.

Hre Builders LLC to Chad Schoenrock, Melissa Corpus-Schoenrock and Melissa Corpus Schoenrock, 375 Mill Ridge Drive, Byron, $382,400.

Andre A Puseman and Amy R Puseman to Matthew P Pendergrass and Jamie L Pendergrass, 5446 N. River Road, Byron, $91,000.

Joan R Atkinson and Michael V Dinnella to Joseph Mazzuca and Angela Sinople, 13965 Dutch Road, Rochelle, $275,000.

Darelyn Mcwherter to Paul Harms, 5968 E. Bradley Road, Byron, $320,000.

Jeremy Jackson and Jillian Jackson to Jacob Sutherland and Ashley Sutherland, 2497 E. Montague Road, Byron, $850,000.

Hre Builders LLC to Alexis Bueno and Emily Bueno, 627 S. Regulators, Rochelle, $285,000.

Jeremy Bruns and Nichole Bruns to Ethan J Adkins and Nicole Adkins, 244 E. Oak Grove Road, Byron, $525,000.

Kristin R Glavac, Kristen Mota and Enrique Mota to Michele Petersen and Gary Petersen, 901 N. 15th St., Rochelle, $155,000.

Ni Shiyun and Shiyun Ni to Rebecca S Hazzard and Adam K Hazzard, 523 Blackhawk Drive, Byron, $580,000.

Richard Gillman IV to Zahon H Shaabna, 200 Ave. E., Rochelle, $190,000.

Gregory J Mosca and Lisa A Mosca to Heather A Newlun and Benjamin A Mason, 15333 E McNeal Road, Monroe Center, $476,000.

Quit claim deeds

Beverly Grove to R Wayne King and Deann King, 103 N. Barry Ave., Byron, $0.

Linda M Rutledge to Dennis R Rutledge, 10 W. 1st St., Mt. Morris, $0.

George Photopulos to Susan Photopulos, one parcel in Oregon-Nashua Township: 16-03-108-004 and 16-03-108-005, $0.

Trustee’s deeds

John W Krueger, trustee; Theresa L Krueger, trustee; and Lce Tr1117 to Emma A Krueger, 2115 S. Daysville Road, Oregon, $0.

John W Krueger, trustee; Theresa L Krueger, trustee; and Lce Tr1117 to Lucas M Miller, one parcel in Oregon-Nashua Township: 16-08-100-013, $0.

John W Krueger, trustee; Theresa L Krueger, trustee; and Tr1117 to Caleb J Krueger, two parcels in Pine Rock Township: 17-03-100-037 and 17-03-100-051, $0.

Michael L Hongsermeier, trustee; Bruce A Hongsermeier, trustee; Wilma Hongsermeier Declaration Tr to Michael L Hongsermeier

and Bruce A Hongsermeier, 3382 N. Mt. Morris Road, Mt. Morris; two parcels in Mt. Morris Township: 08-22-400-020 and 08-27-226-008; and 3384 N. Mt. Morris Road; Mt. Morris $0.

Rosemary Hall, trustee; Richard Carroll Hall Family Tr; Roland Hall, trustee; Shelia Hall, trustee; Shelia Hoiness, trustee; and Violet Hall Tr208 to Karl Auerswald and Madison Bauling, 1015 N. 8th St., Rochelle; $135,000.

Deeds in trust

Jorge E Guarnizo to Jorge E Guarnizo, trustee, and Jorge E Guarnizo Tr, 200 N. 3rd St., Oregon, $0.

David E Bakener and Jennifer D Bakener to David E Bakener, trustee; Jennifer D Bakener, trustee; and Bakener Family Tr525, 1142 N. Mongan Drive, Oregon; and two parcels in Eagle Point Township: 13-01-100-007 and 13-12-400-002, $0.

Source:OgleCountyRecorder’sOffice

Join Rock River Center in Our Celebration!! Saturday, June 21, 2025

12:00pm - 2:00pm RIBBON CUTTING followed by OPEN HOUSE Rock River Center 810 S. 10th Street, Oregon

• Meet and greet with staff • Historical photos • Light refreshments

5:00 pm DOORS Re-OPEN for Guests attending the evening performance

5:30 - 7:00 pm EVENING PERFORMANCE: The Four C Notes

• Tickets may be purchased at Rock River Center

• Cost: $60.00 per person, limited seating.• Heavy appetizers will be served.

Rock River Center’s mission is to provide resources, activities, and services that improve the quality of life for Ogle County’s older adults, the disadvantaged, caregivers, and the greater community.

Established in 1975, Rock River Center, is celebrating 50 years of service to Ogle County Seniors, Caregivers, the disadvantaged, and the greater community in 2025. Our Open House will be free and open to the public. Our evening celebration will be a ticketed event with heavy appetizers, entertainment by The Four C Notes and more!

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

IF YOU HAD KNEE OR HIP REPLACEMENT SU RGERY AND SUFFERED AN INFECTION between 2020 and the present time, you may be entitled to compensation Call Attorney

Charles H. Johnson 1-800-535-5727

ANTIQUE S & COLLE CTIB LES

ROOK IE CARD Fleer #57

Graded 8.5 near mint $6500 815-990-7256

2 USED SADDLES FOR SALE

Australian saddle w/ horn $1,000. Borelli (made in Argentina) English Saddle $350

Please leave message, will call you back 815-994 -070 0

GENERA L LABORER

Shank's Veterinary Equipment, Inc. Milledgeville

Unskilled laborer to perform a variety of manual labor duties necessary as required in a manufacturing production facility.

Skills Req uired and/or Duties: Attend work on the schedule established by the employer without excessive absenteeism; Follow all safe work practices; Be proficient at reading tape measure; Clean production area; Sweep and remove debris; Clean up galvanized parts using hand held die grinders and other hand tools; Grind or clean welded joint; Manually tap drilled holes or re-tap holes of galvanized weldments; Manually assist in cutting and grinding of foam covered padded boards; Manually move and carry raw materials throughout facility; Assist in crating and /or packaging of finished goods in preparation for shipment using packing materials and/or power hand tools; Wash equipment and/or vehicles; Proficient at following directions and instruction; Assist in minor assembly of finished parts; Good communication skills; Clean up work area daily; Ability to lift 60 lbs; Proficient in time management; Ability to multi task; Ability to work well under pressure; Ability to work independently; Willingness to learn new skills.

Hours: Full Time; minimum pay rate $17-$19/hr based on experience. Shifts: Monday thru Friday 7am-5pm, Saturday 7am-12noon Overtime hours may be mandatory

Benefits: Paid holidays; Paid vacation; Paid sick/personal time; Health insurance benefits; Dental/Vision benefits; AFLAC offered; Simple IRA 3% match

Opportunities for advancement include Production Welder and Painter

Email cover letter & resume to: todd@shanksvet.com

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT F OR THE 15TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT OGLE COUNTY - ORE GON , ILLINOIS U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.-

ZACHARY RYAN RICHARDS, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Defendant 2024 FC 41 NOTICE OF SAL E PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 23, 2024, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 1:00 PM on June 26, 2025, at the Ogle County Courthouse, 106 5th Street, front door entrance, OREGON, IL, 61061, sell at public in-person sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 909 N. 9TH STREET, ROCHELLE, IL 61068

Property Index No. 24-24-153-004

The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $131,456.66.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty -four (24) hours The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments , or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certi ficate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale

The proper ty will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclos ure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

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

You will need a photo identi fication issued by a government agency (driver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, contact RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES Plaintiff's Attorneys, 120 N. LASALLE STREET, SUITE 1140, Chicago, IL, 60602 (312) 239-3432. Please refer to file number 24IL00371-1.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE

You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

RANDALL S MILLER & ASS OCIATES 120 N. LASALLE STREET, SUITE 1140 Chicago IL, 60602 312-239-3432 E-Mail: ilpleadings@rsmalaw.com

Attorney File No. 24IL00371-1 Case Number: 2024 FC 41 TJSC#: 45-1204 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2024 FC 41 8190-954069 (Ogle County Newspapers May 30, Jun. 6, 13, 2025) 954069

HORSE S & SUP PLIES

MICHAEL JORDAN

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL

CIRCUIT OGL E COUNTY, ILLINOIS

In the Matter of the Estate of GLEN L. ORR, Deceased

NO. 2025-PR-33

CLAIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of GLEN L. ORR of Mt Morris, IL. Letters of Office as Independent Administrator were issued on May 29, 20251 to KATHLEEN ORR, 417 S McKendrie Ave., Mr Morris, IL 61056, whose attorney is ROBERT E EDEN, 722 Santa Fe Drive, Freeport, IL 61032.

Claims against the Estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, Ogle County Courthouse, Oregon, IL, or with the executor, or both on or before December 4, 2025, or within 3 months from date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/18-3), as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred.

E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exceptions. To e-file, create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need further help or have trouble e-filing, visit http:// www.illinoiscourts. gov/FAQ/gethelp. asp or talk with your local circuit clerk's office.

Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the executor and to the attorney within 10 days after being filed.

ROBERT E. EDEN

Attorney for Estat e

June 6, 13, 20, 2025

ASPHALT PAVING & REPAIR BID REQUEST

The United Lost Lake Property Owners Association is seeking bids for a contractor who is currently in the business of providing asphalt paving & rep air and is Illinois certified Bid specification packets can be picked up at the ULL POA office located at 903 Missouri Drive, Dixon, IL 61021 on Monday or Wednesday from 9AM-3PM. All bids must be received by 3PM on Friday, June 27th, 2025

The ULLPOA will judge all bids without bias but reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids and will accept the bid determined to be in the best interest of the community.

June 10 & 13, 2025

TAX DEED NO.: 2025TX13 FILED: 5/21/2025

TAKE NOTICE

County of Ogle

Date Premise Sold: October 29, 2024

Certificate No.: 2023-00007

Sold for General Taxes of (Year): 2023

Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number: N/A

Warrant No.: N/A Installmen t No.:N/A THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES

Property Located at: 501 North Chestnut Avenue , Forreston, IL 61030 Legal Description or Property Index No.:02-28-332-001

This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on November 5, 2025.

sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the County Clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.

This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before November 5, 2025.

This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in 106 S. 5th St., Oregon, IL 61061, via Zoom, on December 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM

You may be presen t at this hearing, but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time. YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY Redemption can be made at any time on or before November 5, 2025 by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the Count y Clerk in Oregon, Illinois FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

CONTACT THE COUNTY CLERK 105 South 5th Street Suite 104 Oregon, IL 61061 (815) 732-1110

Private Equity Group, LLC

Purchaser or Assignee

June 5, 2025

Spring Brook MHP, LLC

Registered Agents Inc., as R/A for Spring Brook MHP, LLC

Corey A. Woodruff as Designated Agent for Spring Brook MHP, LLC

Spring Brook Mobile Home Park

Spring Brook MHP, LLC

CMH Capital Managed Property

Spring Brook MHP, LLC

Christopher Caveglia as Manager for Spring Brook MHP, LLC

Occupant

River Bank River Bank

LLC Spring Brook MHP, LLC

Christopher Caveglia as Manager for Spring Brook MHP, LLC

Occupant

River Bank

Laura J. Cook, County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois

Claimants, Judgment Creditors, and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “Unknown Owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots”

8190-954639

(Published in the Forreston Journal)

June 13, 20, 27, 2025 954639

TAX DEED NO.: 2025TX14

FILED: 5/21/2025

TAKE NOTICE

County of Ogle

Date Premises

Sold: October 29, 2024

Certificate No.: 2023-00008

Sold for General Taxes of (Year): 2023

Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number: N/A

Warrant No.: N/A

Installmen t No.:N/A

THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES

Property Located at: 407 North Ash Avenue, Forreston, IL 61030

Legal Description or Property Index No.:02-28-380-001

This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on November 5, 2025.

The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the County Clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming. This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on

the County Clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming. This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before November 5, 2025.

This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in 106 S. 5th St., Oregon, IL 61061, via Zoom, on December 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM

You may be presen t at this hearing, but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time. YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY

Redemption can be made at any time on or before November 5, 2025 by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the Count y Clerk in Oregon, Illinois FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE COUNTY CLERK

105 South 5th Street Suite 104 Oregon, IL 61061 (815) 732-1110

Private Equity Group, LLC

Purchaser or Assignee

June 5, 2025

Spring Brook MHP, LLC

Registered Agents Inc., as R/A for Spring Brook MHP, LLC

Corey A. Woodruff as Designated Agent for Spring Brook MHP, LLC

Spring Brook Mobile Home Park

Spring Brook MHP, LLC

CMH Capital Managed Property

Christopher Caveglia as Manager for Spring Brook MHP, LLC

Christopher Caveglia as Manager for Spring Brook MHP, LLC Occupant River Bank River Bank

Laura J. Cook, County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois

Claimants, Judgment Creditors, and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “Unknown Owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots”

8190-954638

County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois

Claimants, Judgment Creditors, and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “Unknown Owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots”

8190-954638

(Published in the Forreston J ournal) June 13, 20, 27, 2025 954638

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

OG LE COUNT Y106 SOUTH 5TH STREET, OREGON, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF Lorena Freeman, DECEASE D. 25 PR 18

Notice is given to creditors of the death of the above named decedent Letters of office were issued to Jack Roth, 1015 Dublin Boulevard, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80918, as Independent Administrator, whose attorney of record is Peter Shayman, DDV Law, Ltd, 14524 John Humphrey Drive, Orland Park, Illinois 60462. The estate will be administered without court supervision, unless under section 5/28-4 of the Probate Act Ill. Compiled Stat 1992, Ch. 755, par 5/28-4) any interested person terminates independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the clerk. Claims against the estate may be filed with the clerk or with the representative, or both, on or before December 13, 2025, or, if mailing or delivery of a notice from the representative is required by section 5/18-3 of the Probate Act, the date stated in that notice. Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered by the claimant to the representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.

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.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders.htm to

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

Peter Shayman DDV Law, Ltd (6335028) 14524 John Humphrey Drive Orland Park, Illinois 60462 (312) 878-0155 I3267655

June 13, 20, 27, 2025

POLO ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

HEARING

Public notice is hereby given to all persons in the City of Polo that a Public Hearing will be held in front of the Zoning Board of Appeals at 6:00p.m on Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 in the Polo City Council room, 118 North Franklin Avenue, Polo, Illinois to hear a reques t filed by Kenneth Dawson, Thomas Dawson, and Edward Dawson of 606 West Dixon Street, Polo, IL for a variance for a lot which has a residential zoning classification but does not have a principal residential structure present but does have an accessory structure located thereon, to hook into the City's water and sewer system at 606 West Dixon Street, Polo, IL. This zoning change would be for Parcel ID 14-09-354-001, otherwise known as 606 West Dixon Street, Polo, IL, Ogle County Illinois.

Sydney Bartelt, CMC City Clerk

June 13, 20, 2025

principal residential structure present but does have an accessory structure located thereon, to hook into the City's water and sewer system at 606 West Dixon Street, Polo, IL. This zoning change would be for Parcel ID 14-09-354-001, otherwise known as 606 West Dixon Street, Polo, IL, Ogle County Illinois.

Sydney Bartelt, CMC City Clerk

June 13, 20, 2025

POLO ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

HEARING

Public notice is hereby given to all persons in the City of Polo that a Public Hearing will be held in front of the Zoning Board of Appeals at 6:00p.m on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 in the Polo City Council room, 118 North Franklin Avenue, Polo, Illinois to hear a request filed by Tanner & Alexis Grobe for a garage height variance request of 310 N. Franklin Ave. This garage height variance request would be for Parcel ID 14-09461-001 & 14-09461-004, otherw ise known as 310 N Franklin Ave, Polo, IL, Ogle County Illinois.

Sydney Bartelt, CMC City Clerk

June 13, 20, 2025

POLO ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

HEARING

BOARD OF APPEALS

HEARING

Public notice is hereby given to all persons in the City of Polo that a Public Hearing will be held in front of the Zoning Board of Appeals at 6:00p.m on Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 in the Polo City Council room, 118 North Franklin Avenue, Polo, Illinois to hear a reques t filed by Dennis & Billie Jo Quaco of 510 East Mason Street, Polo, IL for a variance to place a six foot fence within two feet of the property line at 510 East Mason Street, Polo, IL This zoning change would be for Parcel ID 14-16-230-009, otherwise known as 510 East Mason Street, Polo, IL, Ogle County Illinois.

Sydney Bartelt, CMC City Clerk

June 13, 20, 2025

POLO ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS HEARING

Sydney Bartelt, CMC City Clerk

June 13, 20, 2025

Public notice is hereby given to all persons in the City of Polo that a Public Hearing will be held in front of the Zoning Board of Appeals at 6:00p.m on Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 in the Polo City Council room, 118 North Franklin Avenue, Polo, Illinois to hear a reques t filed by Dennis & Billie Jo Quaco of 510 East Mason Street, Polo, IL for a variance to place a six foot fence within two feet of the property line at 510 East Mason Street, Polo, IL This zoning change would be for Parcel ID 14-16-230-009, otherwise known as 510 East Mason Street, Polo, IL, Ogle County Illinois.

Sydney Bartelt, CMC City Clerk

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 15TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT OGLE COUNTY - ORE GON , ILLINOIS U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.-

ZACHARY RYAN RICHARDS, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Defendant

2024 FC 41 NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 23, 2024, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 1:00 PM on June 26, 2025, at the Ogle County Courthouse, 106 5th Street, front door entrance, OREGON, IL, 61061, sell at public in-person sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Lot Seven (7) in Block Six (6) of Lane's Additi on to the Village of Lane, now with the City of Rochelle situated in the County of Ogle and State of Illinois. Commonly known as 909 N 9TH STREET, ROC HELLE, IL 61068 Property Index No. 24-24-153-004

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $131,456.66.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certi ficate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

For information, contact RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES Plaintiff's Attorneys, 120 N. LASALLE STREET, SUITE 1140, Chicago, IL, 60602 (312) 239-3432. Please refer to file number 24IL00371-1.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE

You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

RANDALL S MILLER & ASS OCIATES 120 N. LASALLE STREET, SUITE 1140 Chicago IL, 60602 312-239-3432 E-Mail: ilpleadings@rsmalaw.com

Case # 2024 FC 41 8190-954069

(Ogle County Newspapers May 30, Jun. 6, 13, 2025) 954069