Mt_Morris_Times-06-21-2024

MT. MORRIS TIMES

NEWS

Father’s Day Hillclimb

Riders take the best shots until Mother Nature brings on the rain / 15

SPORTS

Umpire honored

Field renamed to honor former MLB umpire Larry Young / 16

Safranek back in court

Judge makes ruling on statements in Sarah Safranek case / 11

DEATHS

Earleen Hinton

The crowd watches as Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center Executive Director Melissa Rojas (left) and assistant Kristine Wachs raise a new American flag

MT. MORRIS TIMES

Nash cars to descend on area for ‘Grand Nashional’

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The Tri-County Press, Ogle County News and oglecountynews.com are a division of Shaw Media. Ogle County Newspapers also prints the Mt. Morris Times, Forreston Journal and Oregon Republican Reporter.

The TRI-COUNTY PRESS (USPS No. 638-530) is published weekly by B.F. Shaw Printing Co., Shaw Media. Periodical postage paid at Polo, Illinois. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Shaw Media, P.O. Box 598, Sterling, IL 61081 All rights reserved. Copyright 2024

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

OREGON – If you love unique, antique cars, clear your calendar for the last weekend in June.

The 2024 “Grand Nashional,” hosted by the Upper Mississippi River Region of the Nash Car Club of America, is coming June 26-29 to Oregon.

What’s a Nash? They were automobiles built in Kenosha, Wisconsin, from 1916 until 1937 and carry the name of Charles Williams Nash, who was born in

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Kable band concerts taking place Wednesday nights at Campus

The Kable Concert Band’s summer season features concerts Wednesday nights at the Reckmeyer Bandshell in downtown Mount Morris. All concerts begin at 7:30 p.m.

The director of the Kable Concert Band is Andy Eckardt. There also will be three guest conductors this summer.

Sarah Reckmeyer, a Mount Morris alumnus and longtime director of the Ottawa High School Band, will be the guest director June 26.

Travis Cunningham will lead the band at a Wednesday concert in July. Cunningham is the Forreston High School Band director. Watch for announcements for special solo and ensemble performances.

The Kable Concert Band will be perform-

1864 in Cortland, Illinois, and was the fifth president of General Motors before forming Nash Motors in 1916.

Nash Motors existed from 1917 to 1954 when the company merged with AMC (American Motors Company).

“Still best know today for the Little Nash Rambler,” according to the car club’s flyer announcing the “Grand Nashional.”

On Friday, June 28, club members will take a driving tour past Nash’s family farm on Route 38.

On Saturday, June 29, the public is

invited to attend the club’s car show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. by the Brubaker Center at Stronghold Camp & Retreat Center, which is north of Oregon. More than 200 club members with their Nash cars are expected to attend the event.

The Ogle County Historical Society will be open for the Nash Car Club from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday, June 27, and 1 to 5 p.m., Saturday, June 29.

“All are welcome to visit the Nash house museum and carriage house annex during these times,” said Michal Burnett, historical society member.

ing its weekly concert on the Campus on July 3. On July 4, the band will perform a patriotic concert at 8 p.m. before the fireworks at the former David L. Rahn Junior High School.

Bench seating is provided at concerts or bring folding chairs.

Local organizations offer ice cream socials beginning at 7 p.m.

Mobile pantry coming June 27

Loaves & Fish Food Pantry, in cooperation with the Northern Illinois Food Bank, is hosting a Mobile Food Pantry from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, June 27, at the Mt. Morris Church of the Brethren, 409 W. Brayton Road, Mount Morris. Food is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Food

MT. MORRIS SENIOR AND COMMUNITY CENTER NEWS

Diamond Painting, Friday, June 21

We added another day of Diamond Painting. It’s at 11 a.m. Friday, June 21. No skill is required – just a lot of fun.

Virtual Trip, June 25

Join us for a Virtual Trip to Paris. Call or stop in at least three days before to sign up. Cost is $5 and includes a Parisian treat.

Community Game Night, June 27

Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center has

been rebranded to include the entire community. Come play games on Thursday, June 27, with other members of the community. Popcorn will be provided but feel free to bring a snack to share. Games start at 6 p.m. Bus trip in November

We will be taking a trip to New Orleans from Nov. 3-9. It’s seven days and six nights including four consecutive nights in the New Orleans area. Guided tours and a

is free to neighbors in need. No ID, proof of address or income is required.

Note the pantry will be open from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 3, because Thursday is the Independence Day holiday. Anyone experiencing food insecurity is eligible to receive food.

Loaves & Fish Food Pantry is located on the lower level of the Mt. Morris Church of the Brethren, 409 W. Brayton Road, and is open from 3:30 to 6 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays and 2 to 4:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays. Mobile pantries will be held on the fourth Thursday of every month through October at Church of the Brethren.

For more information, call or text 815-6138776 and leave a message.  – Shaw Local News Network

Library Closed on July 4

The library will be closed Thursday, July 4, for Independence Day.

Summer Reading Program

Summer Reading Programs, June 24-29

Music with Mary! program, 1 p.m. Monday, June 24

riverboat cruise are just a few of the events. For information or to sign up, call Melissa at 815-734-6335.

Sponsor a Chair

We are in the process of replacing our worn-out chairs and can use your help. For $50 a chair, you can sponsor one of the new chairs we are hoping to buy. Stop by the center during open hours (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and talk with Melissa.

Read, Renew, Repeat is our theme. We offer kids programs every week, raffle prizes for adults and kids, parties and more.

CORRECTIONS

Bongo Drums Drop-In Craft, 2 to 7 p.m. Monday, June 24, while supplies last Mini Banjo Take-N-Make, Tuesday through

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

Saturday, June 25-29, while supplies last Family Night, Board Games, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 27

Adult Book Club, Monday, June 24

Everyone is welcome to join this book club. Copies of the book are available at the library. The meeting will be at 3:30 p.m. MT. MORRIS LIBRARY

HOW ARE WE DOING?

We want to hear from you. Email us your thoughts at feedback@shawmedia.com.

Rural Dixon man charged with attempted first-degree murder after June 12 shootout with police in Lost Lake

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com and PAYTON FELIX pfelix@shawmedia.com

OREGON – A rural Dixon man who police said shot three members of the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Response Team on June 12 has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and several weapon charges.

The 12-count information against Jonathon Gounaris, 32, was announced by Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock on Tuesday afternoon.

Gounaris is facing four counts of attempted first-degree murder, three counts of aggravated discharge of a firearm, three counts of aggravated battery and two counts of possession of a firearm without a firearm owner’s identification card.

“On June 12, members of Ogle County law enforcement responded to a home in Lost Nation after a report of someone threatening to commit suicide,” Rock said in the news release. “When police entered the home, three members of law enforcement were shot as well as the defendant. The Illinois State Police conducted an investigation, which was reviewed by the Ogle County State’s Attorney’s Office.”

Gounaris is being held in the Winnebago County jail in Rockford and was scheduled to appear Thursday, June 20, in Ogle County Court in Oregon.

Police allege Gounaris was armed with two handguns when he shot three members of the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Response Team after police were called by a family member to a home in the 400 block of Wild Rice Lane in Lost Lake, a rural subdivision east of Dixon, commonly referred to as Lost Nation.

Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle said his department received the call at 8:39 a.m. from the family member, who warned police it could be a “suicide-by-cop” situation. VanVickle said Gounaris had threatened suicide and homicide.

After a three-hour standoff, three deputies and Gounaris were shot when exchanging gunfire. Lt. Jason Ketter was shot in the face and taken by air ambulance to OSF Medical Center in Rockford where he underwent surgery. He walked out of OSF’s main entrance the night of June 14 with his head held high as officers from multiple departments stood in salute and then escorted him to his home in rural Ogle County.

Ogle County deputy shot in the line of duty released from OSF Hospital

By PAYTON FELIX pfelix@shawmedia.com

ROCKFORD – An Ogle County sheriff’s deputy was released from a Rockford hospital June 14 only two days after he was shot in the line of duty during a standoff with a rural Dixon resident at Lost Lake.

The injuries to Ogle County Sheriff’s Lt. Jason Ketter were described as resulting from being “struck in the face,” according to a news release from the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office.

Ketter underwent surgery on the evening of June 12 at OSF Medical

Sgt. Tad Dominski of the Oregon Police Department and Tyler Carls of the Rochelle Fire Department were treated at KSB Hospital in Dixon and released the evening of June 12, VanVickle told Shaw Local.

The ERT is made up of individuals from different agencies, including the sheriff’s office, Oregon and Byron police departments and SWAT medics from the Rochelle Fire Department.

VanVickle said ERT officers entered the home after Gounaris failed to respond to negotiators’ 50 phone calls.

“At 11:51 a.m., due to the lack of

Center in Rockford. Ketter walked out of OSF’s main entrance Friday night with his head held high as officers from multiple departments stood in salute.

Ketter was escorted home about 7 p.m. by almost the entire Ogle County Sheriff’s Office’s fleet of vehicles.

The Polo Police Department, Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office, Rockford Police Department, Machesney Park officers, La Salle County Sheriff’s Office, Boone County Sheriff’s Office and DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office were among the many departments that came out to show their support.

communication, it was determined that our ERT would enter the house and determine the well-being of that individual,” VanVickle said. “Immediately upon entering the house, our deputies received fire from inside the house. Three deputies were struck by gunfire and transported to local hospitals. The suspect was also struck by gunfire and transported to a local hospital.”

The suspect was armed with two handguns, a knife and pepper spray and was wearing what appeared to be body armor when he charged at police, VanVickle said.

You see this stuff on the news. [This] doesn’t happen here. It’s a very peaceful community, but you have no clue what’s going on inside someone’s home.”

“This was a really, really bad situation,” VanVickle said.

After finding the suspect barricaded inside the door, the deputies were ambushed, VanVickle said. All their training goes into this to “make sure everyone goes home,” he said.

Cheri Kemp, a longtime resident of Lost Lake, was gardening June 12 when she heard an “explosion,” she said in an interview with Shaw Local.

Kemp’s garden is about 400 yards away from the home on Wild Rice Lane. Hearing what sounded like shooting, Kemp described seeing officers in SWAT gear surrounding the residence.

“You see this stuff on the news,” Kemp said, adding this “doesn’t happen here.”

It’s a very peaceful community, she said, but “you have no clue what’s going on inside someone’s home.”

VanVickle said that because the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office is a small rural agency, “we used all the resources we had today.”

“The risk is always the same whether it’s a traffic stop or a barricade,” VanVickle said.

On Tuesday night, VanVickle shared video from an ERT member of the incident. It can be viewed on the sheriff’s social media page.

“I would like to personally thank all law enforcement for their response to this incident and express my sincere gratitude to the multiple fire agencies, hospital staff, MD-1 physicians, flight crews and the general public for their overwhelming support during this very difficult time at the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office,” VanVickle said.

The Ogle County ERT was assisted at the scene by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Illinois State Police, the Dixon Rural Fire Department, the Dixon City Fire Department, the Oregon Fire Department, the Mount Morris Fire Department, the Polo Fire Department and helicopter resources from REACT of Rockford and OSF Life Flight.

Alex T. Paschal

Lt. Jason Ketter is saluted June 14 as he leaves OSF Medical Center in Rockford. Ketter walked out with his family and Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle. Ketter was shot in the line of duty on June 12 in Lost Nation, which is near Dixon.

Cheri Kemp, longtime resident of Lost Lake

Trolley tours were part of Town & Country Days

Polo’s Town and Country Days were just about finished and as I started to work at my computer, the small weather notification came on that said, “Heavy rain soon.” I thought we have just finished in the nick of time although I feel sorry for the carnival people who hoped for some more business.

Saturday, I went early to Henry School to make sure all was in fine shape for our trolley tour. This is the first tour that we have done at the school without Carla Singley. It was a strange feeling but I had Paula Faivre there to help me.

At 10 o’clock we all gathered in the trolley to take a trial run and it was a good thing because the trolley could not come out of the driveway at the Polo Lime Kiln and turn south to the cemetery. It had to go north up to Sherrick’s corner to make the turnaround. As a result, we came by Durley’s grave that is marked and something needed to be said about what happened there.

It has been many, many years since we have had Durley’s grave on a tour and it took us a while to put together the history. It was probably not quite correct but enough for people to get the idea. It was the Blackhawk War of 1832.

Three men were coming from Col. Strode at Galena with a message to Gen. Atkinson at Dixon’s Ferry.

As they approached the grove of trees at Buffalo Grove, they discussed whether to ride through the trees or ride around the grove. They made the wrong choice and as they rode through the trees, they were attacked by Native Americans. William Durley was killed and the other two turned around and rode back to Galena.

Six cattle buyers were coming up the trail from Springfield and they had decided they needed to get back home to protect their property. When they got to Buffalo Grove, they found the body of Durley. They turned around and went back to Dixon’s

Ferry to report what they had found.

Felix St. Vrain, the Native American agent, returned with them and they buried the body of Durley. They then headed north and 10 miles away stopped to eat breakfast. Suddenly they were surrounded by 30 Sauk. St. Vrain and two others were killed and the rest ran for their lives.

Each tour took over an hour and a half and I told people in my column that they would be getting off the trolley to visit each historical site. At Henry School, we had people stop by that saw the school open and we were visited by a hummingbird.

It zipped in, went straight for the windows and eventually just kept flying up at the white ceiling. As the trolley pulled in, I wondered what we were going to do. At the same time the little bird was tired and dropped down by the old water cooler. Violet, who was there, got a prairie bonnet and managed to pick it up in the bonnet and she took it outside. It did not get to hear about Henry School.

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

Luther Peter Hall was a registered 1920 horseshoer

By OTTO DICK

Luther Peter Hall, born in Connecticut in 1860, was an uncle of my wife Marilyn. He died at age 69 and is buried at Stinsonian Cemetery in Paynes Point, Ogle County.

I have his State Horseshoer license. It was issued by the Department of Registration and Education: “This is to certify L.P. Hall is duly registered and entitled to practice as a registered 1920 horseshoer.”

Wild horses did not have a need for harder hoofs since they spent most of their time feeding and roaming grassy soft areas. Once horses were domesticated, they spent more time on roads and city streets. Their hooves wore down quickly. A metal horseshoe fitted

to the animal gave them protection from the new elements.

Most blacksmiths didn’t shoe horses. Those specialists were known as farriers. During the Civil War, the Union forces had a horseshoe forging machine that gave them an advantage over the Southern armies.

Horseshoeing was an important vocation in early U.S. history to preserve horse-drawn transportation. Until the 1920s a motorized truck could not haul as much weight as a draft horse and wagon.

Horseshoers were closely allied with blacksmiths, who worked with shaping iron. Once the work horse had passed from the scene, many horseshoers turned to full-time blacksmithing.

Blacksmiths in the 19th century

worked with iron and steel and occasionally copper, bronze and silver. Their tools consisted of a hearth, an anvil, a vise, a hammer and tongs. They spent time repairing farm implements. They also spent time producing tools and miscellaneous hardware.

There was a great demand for farriers in our nation. The Journeymen Horseshoers National Union was founded in 1874. In 1920, farmers started buying their first tractors and trucks. It’s interesting that L.P. Hall obtained his registered 1920 Horseshoer license. This was 15 years before I was born. Things sure have changed during my lifetime.

• Otto Dick has researched Ogle County history for several years.

issued by the Department of Registration and Education,

as a registered 1920 horseshoer.

Photo provided by Otto Dick Luther Peter Hall, born in Connecticut in 1860, was an uncle of Otto Dick’s wife, Marilyn. This is Hall’s state horseshoer license,

entitling Hall to practice

Betty Obendorf POLO HISTORY

Earleen Hinton

The Polo Historical Society offered free tours of historical sites around Polo via a trolley car June 15 during Town & Country Days.

ABOVE: An audience member waves a small American flag as Denny Jacobs and Mike Bratt perform “This Land is Your Land” during a Flag Day event June 14 at the Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center. RIGHT: Tanya Walls, a care transition coordinator with St. Croix Hospice, shakes the hand of Jerry Knodle, 91, of Mount Morris after giving him a certificate and pin and thanking him for his service June 14 during the Flag Day event. Knodle served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War from 1953-56.

Flag Day celebrated in Mount Morris

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

MOUNT MORRIS – Veterans were thanked and a new flag was raised during the Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center’s Flag Day ceremony June 14.

About 50 people turned out for the program, sitting in the shade of a big maple tree on The Center’s front lawn.

State Rep. Tony McCombie, R-Sa-

‘THOSE WERE THE DAYS’

vanna, was the main speaker for the program.

“This is the only Flag Day event I am aware of today,” she said. “Our flag is more than a piece of fabric. For me, it evokes deep emotion and respect. It represents the enduring spirit of America.

“Our flag, this flag, reminds us of unity and standing together as a nation,” McCombie said. “We are a nation that can overcome our challenges.”

Remarkable revivals in Dixon to be topic at June 29 event

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

OREGON – The “Those Were the Days” presentation at 10 a.m. June 29 at the Oregon Depot Museum will feature Tom Wadsworth of Dixon. The speaker’s subject will be Billy Sunday’s remarkable revivals in Sterling and Dixon in 1904 and 1905.

A 3,300-seat tabernacle was built in Dixon specifically for Billy Sunday’s 36 days of revival meetings in February and March of 1905. Meetings were held for men. There were separate meetings for women. The evening revival meetings were open to all.

Total attendance at all meetings in Dixon ranged from 147,200 to 185,000. Even though this number certainly would include people who attended multiple times, no Dixon event has ever attracted as many people to the city.

Wadsworth’s one-hour presenta -

tion will reveal why the famous evangelist came to Sterling in 1904 and Dixon in 1905, details about the special “tabernacles” built for these five-week revivals, descriptions of the music and preaching at these meetings, opposition to the revivals, the results of the meetings (1,500 conversions in Sterling and 1,300 in Dixon) and an assessment of why they were so successful.

Wadsworth is a speaker and writer who has served as a pulpit minister, radio personality, corporate communications executive and national magazine editor. He holds two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. He has been hired to speak for large audiences from coast to coast and internationally.

The Oregon Depot Museum is located at 400 Collins St.

For more information about this program, call Roger Cain at 815-7579715, Chris Martin at 815-742-8471 or Otto Dick at 815-440-0639.

Photo provided by Tom Wadsworth

A 3,300-seat tabernacle was built in Dixon specifically for Billy Sunday’s 36 days of revival meetings in February and March of 1905. On the stage at left is Billy Sunday and on the right is Fred Fischer, Sunday’s song leader who traveled with him. This picture is from one of the meetings held for men. There were separate meetings for women.

Photos by Earleen Hinton

State rep. Tony McCombie (left), R-Savanna, Mount Morris Village President Phil Labash (center) and veteran Mike Fay say the Pledge of Allegiance on June 14 during a Flag Day event at the Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center.

Little Miss, Little Mister crowned at Polo’s

Town

& Country Days

Photos by Alex T. Paschal

TOP LEFT: Greysen Collins, 6, is crowned Little Mister by last year’s winner, Max Rosquist, on June 13 during Polo’s Town & Country Days. TOP RIGHT: Sydney Buckingham, 5, walks the stage after being named Little Miss on June 13 during Polo’s Town & Country Days. Sydney beat out nine other girls for the title. ABOVE: Heather Faivre lets Adalynn Bennett, 5, show off her talent at the Little Miss contest. LEFT: Harbor Schuler, 5, dances at the Little Miss pageant at Polo’s Town & Country Days. MIDDLE LEFT: Jodi Merrell interviews the spiffily dressed Ricky Rippy Jr., 5, for the Little Mister title.

Town & Country Days hosts parade

Photos by Earleen Hinton

ABOVE: A youth baseball team uses water guns to try to cool off the crowd during the Town & Country Days parade June 16. ABOVE LEFT: Lifeguards from Polo’s city swimming pool take part in the Town & Country Days parade. LEFT: A girl makes a spin move on the Centerstage Dance Company’s float in the parade.

GERALD EUGENE JOHNSTON

Died: April 19, 2024

Gerald Eugene Johnston, age 88, of Flagler Beach, Florida passed away on Friday, April 19, 2024. He was born in Dixon, Illinois to the late, Elmore and Ruby Johnston. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Gerald was predeceased by his loving wife, Vera Johnston; son, Richard Johnston; brother, Richard (Rogene) Johnston; and sister, Pat McCarren. He is survived by his 3 daughters: Julie (Mark) Young, Patricia (Randy) Hinton

REV. DR. LYNN EVERITT LONGENBAUGH

Born: February 2, 1938

Died: June 6, 2024

Rev. Dr. Lynn Everitt Longenbaugh, 86, of North Fort Myers, FL passed away June 6, 2024 at The Windsor in Cape Coral, FL. Lynn was born February 2, 1938 in Oblong, IL to Rev. Vern and Elsie Longenbaugh. His early years in central IL were defined by his love of sports and the ever-present modeling of servanthood displayed by his parents. Lynn graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in 1955 and went on to pursue a Bachelor of Arts from Indiana Central College in 1959. It is here that he met his wife, Peggy Gibson. They wed on June 11, 1960. They welcomed sons, Kevin, in 1962, Kurt, in 1967 and daughter, Amy, in 1973. Imprinted by the

JOYCE DEETS

Born: June 5, 1937 in Sterling, IL

Died: June 12, 2024 in Oregon, IL

Joyce Deets, 87, of Polo passed away Wednesday, June 12, 2024 surrounded by her family at Serenity Hospice and Home after a brief battle with cancer.

Joyce was born June 5, 1937 in Sterling, Illinois, the daughter of Lawrence and Helen (Carey) Scott. She was united in marriage to Lawrence Deets on January 13, 1957 at East Jordan Church. Joyce and Larry were

and Cindy Kalus; 5 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends.

Funeral services were held Friday, May 3, 2024 at Long Branch Baptist Church, 5500 Long Branch Road, Jacksonville, L. Burial followed at Long Branch Cemetery next to his wife, Vera.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Harbor Baptist Church, 128 Tomoka Avenue, Ormond Beach, FL 32174. Arrangements by HARDAGE-GIDDENS

RIVERMEAD FUNERAL HOME, 127 Blanding Blvd, Orange Park, FL. Please post words of comfort at www.hardage-giddensrivermead. com.

faith of his boyhood home, he answered his own call into the ministry. He graduated from Evangelical Theological Seminary, Naperville, IL in 1962. He then began his 44 years of service in the Northern Illinois Conference of the United Methodist Church. Motivated by a desire to lead well, he also pursued his Doctor of Divinity from McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago, IL in 1987. With great reverence and concern, he shared in the most poignant and important moments of many people’s lives. He shared in the joy of weddings and baptisms by officiating hundreds of these ceremonies. In moments of grief and loss, he was the wise counselor and comforter. In his 44 years of full-time ministry, he stewarded 8 different congregations, including Rock Grove, IL, Fairfield, WI, Forreston, IL, Mt. Greenwood (Chicago), Wesley (Elgin), Morrison, IL, Gary Memorial (Wheaton), and Lasalle, IL. Lynn was an outdoorsman who loved his sports. He combined his outdoor passion with ministry as Chair of Outdoor and Retreat Ministries, Director of Junior High youth

childhood friends, living as neighbors and attending East Jordan Church throughout their lives.

Joyce helped Larry milk cows, feed calves and helped with farm work for many years. After Kevin moved home to farm, Joyce worked for Kline’s Department Store, then for the Polo Bank for many years. She and Larry enjoyed square dancing in their younger years. Joyce was known for her beautiful flowers, her cooking, playing cards and her willingness to help others. She was very active and served on many committees at East Jordan Church. She spent many hours through the years driving her children to music lessons, rehearsals, and concerts. Hearing them play brought her much joy. She loved her family and beamed with pride

Chopsonthegrill

camps at Camp Reynoldswood and Director of Senior High wilderness canoe camps in the boundary waters for over 30 years. He impacted many young lives and held the placid clear lakes of Canada as sacred places, full of cherished memories.

Lynn remained active throughout his life playing full court basketball well into his 50s. He enjoyed playing competitive tennis and golfing to chase an acceptable handicap while in a pursuit to golf his age. He and Peggy retired to Fort Myers, FL in 2003 delighted that neither rain nor snow never interrupted a sunny day of golf.

Lynn is survived by his sons, Kevin (Leanne) Longenbaugh, Evansville, IN and Kurt (Eliza) Longenbaugh, Hoffman Estates, IL; daughter, Amy Longenbaugh, Chicago, IL; sister, Elaine Catlin (David); 7 grandchildren, Tennille, Corie, Bailey, Stephanie, Michael, Rachel and Daniel; and 10 great grandchildren. In faith, we believe he is welcomed home by those who preceded him in death including Peggy, his wife of 57 years; his parents; brother, Gerald Longenbaugh; aunts and

when she was surrounded by her children, grand-children and great-grandchildren. For 17 years Joyce and Larry enjoyed spending their winters in Wintergreen Estates Trailer Park in Texas where they had many friends. You would often find Joyce making food for meals “down at the hall” and playing cards in the evening with their many friends. Survivors include her husband of 67 years, Larry; sons: Kevin (Janice) Deets, Polo, IL; Craig (Amanda) Deets, Clinton, IL; daughter,Sue (Patrick Dixon) Lehmann, Shokapee, MN; and her sister-in-law, Patty Scott, Clarksville, TN. Her 7 grandsons Ryan (Rachel) Deets, Dixon, IL; Matthew (Lauryn) Deets, Geneseo, IL; Kyle (Jen Coe) Deets, East Moline, IL; Aaron (Lauren) Deets, Chicago, IL; Austin (Corey) Deets, Milwaukee, WI; Dane (Natalie

uncles and dear friends.

Lynn’s enduring legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were served and loved by him.

A Celebration of his Life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, June 22, 2024, at Boone Funeral Home East Chapel, 5330 Washington Avenue, Evansville, IN with Rev. David Catlin officiating. Burial will be in Park Lawn Cemetery immediately following the services. At the completion of services, friends and family are invited to gather for food and fellowship. Friends and family may call from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m., Saturday, June 22, 2024 at Boone Funeral Home East Chapel.

Memorial Contributions may be made to The United Methodist Church of Morrison, IL, 200 W Lincolnway, Morrison, IL 61270. www. morrumc.org.

Boone Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Rev. Dr. Lynn Longenbaugh. Condolences may be made to the family online at boonefuneralhome.net

Gordon) Lehmann, Kenosha, WI; Brendan Lehmann, Prior Lake, MN and 6 great-grandchildren; Dorien Deets, Donovan Deets, Josephine Deets, Stella Deets, Chloe Deets, and Emma Deets.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Tim Scott.

Visitation will be Tuesday, June 18, 2024 from 9:30-11:00 with the service at 11:00 at East Jordan Church, 22027 Polo Rd. Sterling IL. Burial will be in the East Jordan Church cemetery.

The family wishes to thank Serenity Hospice and Home for their excellent care.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for East Jordan Church or Serenity Hospice and Home.

John Hopkins (left) and Chris Diehl grill pork chops June 15 at the Polo Snow Rangers food booth at Town & Country Days in Polo.

Earleen Hinton

Carnival worker accused of sexually assaulting Polo woman

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

OREGON – An 18-year-old Woodridge man who was working for the carnival during Polo’s Town & Country Days has been charged with criminal sexual assault.

Ronald Peacock appeared in Ogle County court Monday on charges that he sexually assaulted a woman after confronting her at her car at the Casey’s gas station in the early morning hours of June 16.

Assistant State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten said Peacock told the woman to take him inside the store, where she thought he was going to commit a burglary.

But, Leisten said, Peacock told her he didn’t want money. She then ran

OGLE COUNTY SHERIFF REPORTS

Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle reports the following activity:

June 10

Celso Gerardo Morales-Perales, 50, of Rockford, was arrested for no valid driver’s license after a traffic stop in the 12000 block of North Kennedy Hill Road about 10:06 p.m. Morales-Perales was taken to the Ogle County jail and released on a notice to appear.

June 11

About 6:45 p.m., deputies responded to a complaint of a possible battery stemming from a road-rage incident in the 1000 block of South Lowell Park Road. About 6:58 p.m., deputies found and stopped two motorcycles involved in the incident near the intersection of Fourth and Washington streets in Oregon. Terry Cushing, 42, of Rock Falls, was arrested for driving while license suspended and cited for violation of license classification. Joshua Kobbeman, 42, of Tampico, was cited for improper display of registration. Cushing was arrested and Kobbeman cited after the investigation. Cushing was released from the scene on a notice to appear.

June 12

Scott M. Keilin, 56, of Oregon, was arrested for driving while under the

June 3

Garrett C. Hoffman, 35, of Oregon, was arrested at 10:44 p.m. for criminal trespass to real property in the 200 block of West Washington Street after a citizen complaint. Hoffman was transported to the Ogle County jail where he was processed and released with a notice to appear.

June 5

At 8:58 a.m., police investigated a two-vehicle traffic crash in the 900

influence of alcohol. About 2 a.m., deputies responded to Illinois Route 64 at South Lynnville Road for a driving complaint of a white van driving west on the wrong side of Route 64. At 2:20 a.m., deputies stopped a van matching the description on Route 64 near South Daysville Road. Keilin also was cited for improper lane use. Keilin was taken to the Ogle County jail, released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.

June 13

Alex R. Davis, 33, of Oregon, was arrested for driving while under the influence of drugs, child endangerment and possession of cannabis more than 30 grams and less than 100 grams after deputies responded to the 6800 block of East Weld Park Road for a welfare check. Davis was taken to the Ogle County jail, released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.

June 14

Richard L. Eraas, 62, of Chana, was arrested for aggravated battery to a police officer after deputies responded to the 7000 block of East Grist Mill Road for a welfare check at 11:40 a.m. Upon arrival, deputies were met with

from the store and Peacock followed, knocking her down onto the street and committing the assault before another citizen yelled and Peacock fled.

Ogle County Public Defender William Gibbs was appointed as Peacock’s attorney after Judge John Redington determined him to be indigent.

Gibbs asked that Peacock be released pending his next court appearance, arguing he is a low flight risk and has relatives in Peoria

County with whom he could stay. Gibbs also said Peacock’s photo was the only photo shown to the victim to identify the person who committed the assault.

Leisten argued that Peacock should not be released. Redington agreed after ruling that probable cause existed for the case to continue through the court system.

Peacock was remanded to the Ogle County jail. His next court appearance is 10 a.m. June 26.

block of West Washington Street involving a 2020 Ford driven by Eldred H. George, 78, of Elgin, and a 2016 Jeep driven by Christopher S. Corcoran, 67, of Mount Morris. No citations were issued.

William S. Mongan, 30, of Oregon, was arrested at 11:59 p.m. for criminal trespass to a residence after a disturbance in the 300 block of Lover’s Lane. Mongan was transported to the Ogle County jail where he was processed

several aggressive dogs that began attacking them. At that point, the homeowner, Eraas, emerged from the garage and started to yell at deputies. Eraas lurched at and attacked one of the deputies. Eraas was taken into custody and taken to the Ogle County jail, given a notice to appear and released with a future court date of 9 a.m. July 3. The Oregon Fire Protection District and EMS assisted.

June 15

Josue Benitez, 23, of Rockford, was arrested for driving while license suspended after a traffic stop in the 6000 block of north Illinois Route 251 at 12:42 a.m. Benitez also was cited for speeding and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Benitez was released on a notice to appear.

Thomas B. Shaw, 46, of Rochelle, was arrested for driving while under the influence after deputies responded to an overturned UTV in the 5000 block of South Skare Road about 1:28 a.m. Shaw also was cited for failure to reduce speed and operating a non-highway vehicle on the roadway. Shaw was taken to the Ogle County jail, released on a notice to appear and given a future court date. Two passengers of the vehicle, Jessica Erdman,

46, of Rochelle, and Jennifer L. Copeland, 42, of Rochelle, were taken to Rochelle Community Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

Dustin Grove, 41, of Davis Junction, was arrested for violating an order of protection after deputies responded to the 9000 block of North Blaine Drive about 9:18 p.m. Grove was taken to the Ogle County jail and held pending a court appearance.

June 16

Jesus Linares, 41, of Rochelle, was arrested for domestic battery and interfering with the reporting of a domestic battery after deputies responded to the 5000 block of South Greenland Drive in rural Rochelle about 12:12 a.m. Linares was taken to the Ogle County jail and held pending a court appearance.

Adam P. Latham, 39, of Davis Junction, was arrested for domestic battery after deputies responded to the 100 block of Dayflower Circle in Davis Junction about 8:56 p.m. Latham was taken to the Ogle County jail and held pending a court appearance.

Charges are accusations and all people are presumed innocent unless proved guilty in a court of law.

and released with a notice to appear.

June 7

Derek R. Weegens, 46, of Polo, was issued a citation at 7:30 a.m. for operating a vehicle with a suspended registration. The violation occurred in the 100 block of North Third Street.

June 9

Cassandra L. Day, 32, of Rock Falls, was arrested at 9:45 a.m. for driving while license suspended. Day also was issued a citation for operation of a

vehicle with a suspended registration. Day was transported to the Ogle County jail where she was processed and released with a notice to appear. The violations occurred in the 900 block of West Washington Street. Eleven parking citations were issued June 3-9.

Charges are accusations and all people are presumed innocent unless proved guilty in a court of law.

Ronald Peacock

Judge makes ruling on statements in Safranek case

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

OREGON – An Ogle County judge ruled Wednesday that some statements a 7-year-old made about alleged abuses before his death in 2021 can be entered as evidence while others cannot when his mother stands trial in August for killing him.

Sarah Safranek, 37, the mother of Nathaniel Burton, is accused of killing Nathaniel in the family’s Oregon home in February 2021. Safranek is charged with five counts of first-degree murder and one count of aggravated battery. She was arrested April 21, 2021, and indicted May 4, 2021. She pleaded not guilty May 6, 2021.

In March, she entered a guilty plea to one count of first-degree murder but then withdrew that plea in May.

Safranek appeared in court Monday for a daylong motion hearing during which four prosecution witnesses testified that her son told them he was being abused by his mother prior to his death. Defense attorneys countered the statements were hearsay and should not be allowed as evidence.

Judge John Redington listened to testimony and arguments regarding the motions in limine and reviewed case law before rendering his decision Tuesday afternoon.

Motions in limine are made to determine whether certain evidence may be presented to the jury and are commonly entered and argued before a trial begins, allowing evidentiary questions to be decided by the judge. Motions in limine in the Safranek have been sealed and are not viewable to the public.

“The court finds that all statements in question

PROPERTY TRANSFERS FOR OGLE COUNTY

Filed June 8-14

Warranty deeds

Devin Heyob and Ashley Heyob to Dillon J. Keeton, 110 E. Brayton Road, Mt. Morris, $179,900.

Susan D. Johnson to John Botsford and Toni Botsford, 7927 S. Walnut St., Dixon, and 7927 S. Water Road, Dixon, $230,000.

Chad Linboom to Mary J. Lingel, 110 N. Pleasant Ave., Polo, $113,750.

Contry Homes Group LLC to Shane C. Johnson and Taylor C. Johnson, 209 Autumnwood Lane, Davis Junction, $246,870.

Richard A. Scott and Minnette L. Willard Scott to Scott Cantrell, 309 S. 10th St., Oregon, $129,000.

Donald L. Morin, Marvin E. Day, deceased estate of, Wanda M. Day, executor probate 2022pr64, Wanda M. Day, trustee, and Wanda M. Day Revocable Trust, to Stone Brook Group LLC, one parcel on Hastings Avenue in Oregon and 404 E. Washington St., Oregon, $294,000.

Melissa Keller Smith to Mark H. Merritt and Debra A. Merritt, 412 Sioux Lane, Dixon, and 414 Sioux Lane, Dixon,

are not ‘testimonial’ in nature and, therefore, are not violative of the defendant’s confrontation clause rights under the United States and Illinois constitutions,” Redington said in the order.

Witnesses told the court Monday that Nathaniel told them his mom had tried to drown him in the bathtub and suffocate him with a couch cushion. They also said Nathaniel told them she had hit him and once threw a phone at him when he spilled juice.

Assistant State’s Attorney Melissa Voss said their testimony should be allowed because it showed an intent by Safranek to kill her son.

“Her intent was to kill or do bodily harm,” Voss argued. “Nathaniel’s statements are about what

happened to him. He repeated these accounts to multiple people.

“The reason he was making these statements was to get help,” Voss said.

Safranek’s attorneys, Ogle County Public Defenders Kathleen Isley and Michael O’Brien, argued the witnesses’ testimony was inconsistent, lacked crucial specifics as to when and how the alleged incidents happened and should not be taken at face value.

“There is a lack of specificity,” O’Brien argued. “The witness we are missing is Nathaniel and that is a due process problem.”

Due process is a legal term that refers to fair treatment for a defendant as their case moves through the court system.

“This is exactly why hearsay exists,” O’Brien argued.

Hearsay statements refer to information received from witnesses that cannot be substantiated through cross examination.

“We do not have the ability to question these statements,” O’Brien said.

In his decision, Redington said statements made to two Dixon residents with whom Nathaniel stayed with sometimes would be allowed as evidence in the trial including his claims that his mom tried drowning him when he was taking a bath and had attempted to choke him in two other incidents.

Nathaniel was a first grade student at Oregon Elementary School. He was found unresponsive and not breathing at 2:30 a.m. Feb. 17, 2021, in his bed at home in the 400 block of South 10th Street. He was pronounced dead later that day at KSB Hospital in Dixon.

See SAFRANEK, page 13

$229,000.

Ryan Atherton and Kimberley Atherton to Marty Scott Pierce and Marie Lynn Pierce, 110 Woodland Dr., Dixon, and 108 N. Woodland Dr., Dixon, $240,000.

MCRN Testing Site LLC to Michael A. Stukenberg, trustee, Colleen M. Stukenberg, trustee, Michael A. Stukenberg Revocable Trust and Colleen M. Stukenberg Revocable Trust, one parcel on White Eagle Road in Forreston, one parcel in Maryland Township and 9180 W. White Eagle Road, Leaf River, $0. Asche-Nielsen Inc. to Larry L. Asche and Diane Asche, 10110 N. Mt. Vernon Road, Shannon, $0.

Jose A. Mascote and Cristina Mascote to Reyna Z. Ortega, 532 W. Hall St., Creston, $384,000.

Quit claim deeds

Chris A. Hall, Sara E. Hall and Carrie A. Hall to Carrie Hall, 217 Irene Ave., Rochelle, $0.

Linda K. Williams to Ronald L. Ulrich, 6668 N. Marrill Road, Byron, $100,000.

Michael Hawkinson to Abbigale May Hawkinson and Michael Hawkinson, 6107 E. McGregor Road, Byron, $0.

Bryan J. Mink to Bryan Mink, trustee,

and Bryan Mink Trust, 3410 S. Prairie Road, Oregon, $0.

Bryan J. Mink to Bryan Mink, trustee, and Bryan Mink Trust, one parcel in Pine Rock Township, $0.

Trustee Deeds

Marletta Sue Poggioli, trustee, and Harry Poggioli Jr. Living Trust to Kimberly A. Rose Dawson, 312 E. Second St., Leaf River, $72,000.

Mark Newcomer, trustee, Scott Newcomer, trustee, Max L. Newcomer Declaration Trust and Sylvia E. Newcomer Declaration Trust to Benjamin R. Hammer and Katherine T. Hammer, 607 Jefferson St., Oregon, $243,000.

Executors

Janet L. Riley, deceased by executor, to Geoff R. Naqvi and Lisa Michelle Naqvi, 107 N. Perene Ave., Byron, $217,000.

Deeds in trust

Ronnie L. Rackow and Sandra M. Rackow to Ronnie L. Rackow, trustee, Sandra M. Rackow, trustee, and Ronnie L. And Sandra M. Rackow Living Trust, 12249 W. Haldane Road, Lincoln Township, 10958 W. Stover St., Lincoln Township, and 10934 W. Stover St., Lincoln Township, $0.

James M. Gensler and Melissa A. Gensler to James M. Gensler, trustee, and James M. Gensler Tr219, one parcel in Flagg Township, $0.

Marcia Ruth Goelitz to Marcia R. Goelitz Declaration Trust and Marcia R. Goelitz, trustee, 5751 N. Carole Court, Monroe Center, $0.

Cade Jay Bushnell and Mari Lyn Bushnell to Cade J. Bushnell, trustee, and Cade J. Bushnell Revocable Trust, one parcel on Plucker Road in Byron, two parcels in Marion Township $0.

Cade Jay Bushnell and Mari Lyn Bushnell to Mary Lyn Bushnell, trustee, and Mari Lyn Bushnell Revocable Trust, 5497 E. Macklin Road, Stillman Valley, and one parcel in Marion Township, $0. Warranty deeds in trust

Linda Lou Andreen, trustee, and Linda L. Andreen, to Linda Lou Andreen, trustee, and Linda L. Andreen Trust, 203 S. Colfax St., Byron, $0.

Transfer on death instrument

Donald J. Mumma and Erin E. Mumma to Mumma Family Trust, 607 Jefferson St., Oregon, $0.

Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office

Earleen Hinton

Sarah Safranek is escorted into an Ogle County courtroom on Monday for a motion hearing by Deputy Dan Daub.

Photos by Earleen Hinton

Free music continues on Fridays in Mount Morris

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

MOUNT MORRIS – The Rockin’ Fenderskirts, a Chicago-based classic rock ‘n’ roll band, will perform from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, June 21, at the Jamboree Music Series.

The band will play favorite rock ‘n’ roll oldies.

“Great Balls of Fire! There’ll be a Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On. You’ll dance, you’ll sing, you’ll laugh. You’ll get All Shook Up. Who knows, you might even Twist and Shout! They’ll be Dancin’ in the Streets and all around the Campus, so don’t miss this lively and dynamic show,” said Larry

• SAFRANEK

Continued from page 11

According to records obtained by Shaw Local in a Freedom of Information Act request, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services visited the household about a dozen times over two years, following up on five reports of suspected abuse and neglect. Each time, DCFS closed the

Ubben, Jamboree organizer.

Concessions will be provided by the Let Freedom Ring Committee, which will be serving sloppy Joes, hot dogs, chips, soda, water and root beer floats. Bill’s Famous Lemonade will be there and the Mount Morris Senior & Community Center may offer popcorn. Concessions start at 6 p.m.

Ewe and Me Acres will have its fresh produce stand on the Campus from 5 to 8 p.m.

“On either side of the bandshell, the Student Art Show continues in the Sandstone Encore Art Gallery and the new location of the Mount Morris Historical Museum in the newly renovated College Hall will be open during

case after finding no indications of parental wrongdoing. Nathaniel was 4 when the allegations first surfaced.

Another pretrial motion hearing is set for June 28 with the jury trial scheduled for Aug. 12.

Redington ruled in November 2022 that Safranek was fit to stand trial after reviewing a mental health evaluation requested by the defense. Safranek has claimed she has mental and physical issues that are not

TIMBER LAKE PLAYHOUSE

the concert,” Ubben said. “Please bring a blanket or chair or enjoy the new benches and join the fun on our beautiful, historic campus in the center of Mount Morris, two blocks south of Route 64 on Wesley Avenue and enjoy the free concerts.”

New Heartaches on June 28

The New Heartaches, a vintage honky tonk country band, will make its debut from 7 to 9 p.m., Friday June 28.

“Band leader David Huizenga has been here twice before with his classic rock band Generation and now brings a completely different outfit specializing in playing classic country honky tonk music,” Ubben said. “Sounding

being treated properly at the jail and, in a previous motion, her attorneys argued she was not getting sufficient medical attention while in custody.

Monday’s hearing was temporarily suspended when Redington asked Safranek if she was ill and she replied she was dizzy. When court deputies attempted to escort her to a holding area outside of the courtroom, she fell, but was returned to her feet with the deputies’ help.

like what you would find in a dive bar or dance hall in Nashville, the New Heartaches play classic tunes from Patsy Cline, Merle Haggard and Buck Owens to more recent artists like Dwight Yoakum, Marty Stuart and George Strait.”

The Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center will be serving hamburgers, hot dogs and brats with all the fixings, along with chips and drinks and Just 4 Fun Ice Cream also will be there, Ubben said. Concessions start at 6 p.m.

Ewe and Me Acres will have a fresh produce stand with fruits, vegetables, baked goods, jams, jellies and dog treats on the Campus along with other craft and plant vendors from 5 to 8 p.m.

Upon her return to the hearing, Isley said the jail’s nurse had examined Safranek and her vitals were normal. Redington asked Safranek if she was OK to continue with the hearing and she said she “would try” and the hearing continued.

She appeared in court for Tuesday’s hearing without any incident.

Safranek has been held in the Ogle County Correctional Center since her arrest in April 2021.

Special truck a ‘draw’ with kids at Oregon Lions Club’s Car Show

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

OREGON – In a sea of shiny chrome and perfectly manicured interiors, complete with prominent “Do not touch signs,” Bob Renwick’s 1956 Ford F1 pickup truck was the most fan-friendly entry June 16 at the Oregon Lions Club’s annual Father’s Day Car Show.

Renwick’s creatively decorated “rat rod,” complete with skulls, rats and other unique decorations, offered kids a chance to make their own mark on the truck’s exterior with colored sidewalk chalk.

“It gets the kids involved with something to do,” Renwick said. “Car shows have a lot of do not touch, but this is all about having fun.”

Kids – and some adults – walked up to the truck and drew whatever they wanted to on the fenders, doors or tailgate of the rusted wonder.

Sadie Williams, 10, of Byron grabbed a piece of blue chalk and drew a perfect heart on the passenger door.

There were 128 vehicles in the show, which was held on the lawn by the Chana School Museum at Oregon Park East.

Best of Show awards were Kid’s Choice, Ron Bychowski, 1924 Ford T-Bucket; Best GM, Dave and Cindy Viel, Ridott, 1964 Chevy Nova; Best Ford, Syd and Gail Nolan, Rockford, 1968 Ford Mustang Shelby; Best Chrysler, Randy Yearton, Monroe Center, 1949 Chrysler Windosor, Best Orphan (models no longer made), Howie Thomas, Hampshire, 1955 Studebacker Champion; and Lion’s Choice, Gary Tarvestad, Rochelle, 1951 Chevy Impala.

ABOVE: Waylon Coutts, 3, of Sterling checks out Roger Pederson’s 1970 Chevrolet Camaro at the Oregon Lions Club’s Father’s Day Car Show on June 16. The car was one of 128 vehicles that took part in this year’s show. RIGHT: Dan and Darrell Mongan of Oregon brought their 1930 Ford Model A to the show.

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Photos by Earleen Hinton

Sadie Williams, 10, of Byron draws a heart on Ron Renwick’s 1956 Ford rat rod at the Oregon Lions Club’s Father’s Day Car Show on June 16. Renwick supplied chalk for the kids to draw anything on the truck.

Father’s Day Hillclimb hot and dusty

Mother Nature puts early end to fun

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

MOUNT MORRIS – The dust was thick June 16 at the annual Rock River Riders Motorcycle Club’s Father’s Day Hillclimb. That was until Mother Nature showed up and put an end to all the fun.

Riders from across the region took their best shots at climbing “the hill” on their motorcycles with a variety of class divisions. Footage and the time spent to make it all the way to the top determined the winners of each division.

During intermission before the rain, spectators got a chance to climb the hill, which stands more than 100 feet tall.

Cyrus Locklund, 7, of Rockford, was one of the kids who made it to the top without having to use one of the

ropes strung on each side of the hill.

“I went up and down the hill twice without a rope,” said a beaming Locklund as he stood with his family under their canopy after intermission. “But it was clunky dirt.”

The mechanized machines were back on the hill for about 20 minutes before clouds rolled in and the rain began.

Five riders took on the hill in the rain before the mud became too slick and the event was called off.

The RRRMC was founded in 1935 and is located across from the main entrance to White Pines State Park, 6719 West Pines Road, between Oregon and Polo.

The club is known for its hill climb event, held just to the west of what once was the Pines Drive-In Theater. When the theater closed, the club bought the land.

For information on the Rock River Riders Motorcycle Club, visit www.rrrmc.org.

ABOVE: A rider gets knocked off his bike during his attempt at climbing the hill June 16 at the Rock River Riders Motorcycle Club’s Father’s Day Hillclimb.

RIGHT: Cyrus Locklund, 7, of Rockford navigates his way down the hill during intermission at the Rock River Riders Motorcycle Club’s Father’s Day Hillclimb.

Photos by Earleen Hinton

Adam Kieler clears the hill before rain started June 16 at the Rock River Riders Motorcycle Club’s Father’s Day Hillclimb.

Major League Baseball umpire’s name now part of field

Oregon native Larry Young has youth diamond named after him

By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com

OREGON – The baseball diamond where Larry Young planted the roots of a future Major League Baseball umpiring career officially was named in his honor June 14 at Oregon’s Lions Park.

The Oregon Park District hosted a ceremony to dedicate Larry Young Field and celebrate his impact after a free umpiring clinic for all ages hosted by Young. A youth baseball game took place after the ceremony, which was filled with members of the community, his friends and family. The field is used for youth baseball and softball up to age 12.

Young, wearing his old chest protector, threw out the first pitch.

Young, an Oregon High School grad, started umpiring at the field eight blocks from his home as a 13-year-old. He went on to have a 24-year umpiring career that featured two World Series games, All-Star games and several division and league championships.

Young began his professional umpiring career in 1983.

Oregon always has been home for the 70-year-old.

“It’s an incredible feeling,” Young said of having the field named in his honor. “I know that the people in my hometown are honoring me and I wasn’t expecting anything like this. It’s really something.”

The Oregon Park District approved plans to dedicate the field in his honor

in November 2023. Oregon Park District Commissioner Mark Tremble spoke before Young addressed the crowd.

“[Larry] has been phenomenal through this process,” Oregon Park District Executive Director Erin Folk said. “We look at this as a great opportunity for us to be able to honor somebody who’s been essentially a local legend in our community.”

Young umpired his first game in 1966 at the field. It went well and he was offered an opportunity to umpire games for the rest of the summer. He wasn’t paid, but he got a free root beer after each game.

“I did a lot of games that year and drank a lot of root beer,” he said.

Young, who wore No. 28, went on to umpire high school and college games, as well as the Alaskan League, before attending umpire school. He went on to make calls at the World Series in 1996 and 2003. He retired in 2007.

“Larry is a homegrown, local Oregon boy,” Tremble said. “Although his career has taken him all across the United States and the world, he would tell everyone that Oregon, Illinois, is his hometown and his heart has always been here.”

Young founded the Larry Young and Friends Charity in 1999, which provides support for community organizations. He resides in Dubuque, Iowa, with his wife of 49 years and high school sweetheart, Joan. They are the parents of Jessica (Ike Gamble) and Darcy (Mike Putziger) and grandparents to Bo and Gus.

He is still involved as a supervisor of MLB umpires, training umpires all over the world.

“It’s been a very, very good profession for me,” Young said.

Shown is the plaque that was unveiled at the Larry Young Field dedication ceremony June 14 at Lions Park in Oregon.

Earleen Hinton

Retired Major League Baseball umpire Larry Young was behind the plate for the ceremonial first pitch of the baseball game between the Oregon Blue and Oregon Red teams after the renaming of the field at Lions Park in Young’s honor June 14. Shown with Young are catcher Grady Grover and batter Sebastian Murphy. The first pitch was delivered by Huddson Long. Young grew up in Oregon and started his umpiring career calling games for the Oregon Park District at Lions Park.

of the death of JOE C EVANS of Byron, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on June 6, 2024 to RICHARD T. EVANS, as Independent Administrator whose attorneys are WILLIAMS McCARTHY LLP, 120 W. State St., P.O. Box 219, Rockford, IL 61105.

2024

comb, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on May 23, 2024 to KAY F. GUZZARDO, as Independent Executor whose attorneys are WILLIA MS McCARTHY LLP, 120 W. State St., P.O. Box 219, Rockford, IL 61105.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

In the Matter of:

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

In the Matter of: JOE C. E VANS, Deceased

No. 2024-PR-21 CLAIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of JOE C EVANS of Byron, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on June 6, 2024 to RICHARD T. EVANS, as Independent Administrator whose attorneys are WILLIAMS McCARTHY LLP, 120 W. State St., P.O Box 219, Rockford, IL 61105.

The estate will be administered without cour t supervision, unless under Section 28-4 of th e Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested pers on terminate s independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Clerk.

Claims against the estate may be filed in th e office of the Clerk of the Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street # 300, Oregon, IL 61061 or with the representative, or both, on or before December 23, 2024, or within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of

The estate will be administered without cour t supervision, unless under Section 28-4 of th e Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested pers on terminate s independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Clerk.

Claims against the estate may be filed in th e office of the Clerk of the Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street # 300, Oregon, IL 61061 or with the representative, or both, on or before December 23, 2024, or within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act, wh ichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney wi thin 10 days after i t has been filed.

RICHARD T EVANS Independent Administrator

June 21, 28, July 5, 2024

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

In the Matter of:

SAMUAL R. GUZZARDO, Deceased No. 2024-PR-32

CLAIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of SAMUAL R. GUZZARDO of Holcomb, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on May 23, 2024 to KAY F. GUZZARDO, as Independent Executor whose attorneys are WILLIA MS McCARTHY LLP, 120 W. State St., P.O. Box 219, Rockford, IL 61105.

The estate will be administered without cour t supervision, unless under Section 28-4 of th e

SAMUAL R. GUZZARDO, Deceased No. 2024-PR-32

CLAIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of SAMUAL R. GUZZARDO of Holcomb, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on May 23, 2024 to KAY F. GUZZARDO, as Independent Executor whose attorneys are WILLIA MS McCARTHY LLP, 120 W. State St., P.O Box 219, Rockford, IL 61105.

The estate will be administered without cour t supervision, unless under Section 28-4 of th e Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested pers on terminate s independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Clerk.

The estate will be administered without cour t supervision, unless under Section 28-4 of th e Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested pers on terminate s independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Clerk.

MONTHLY ME ETING DATES

ORE GON FIRE PROTE CTION

DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES

MAY 1, 2024

THRU APRIL 30, 2025

Wednesday May 8, 2024

Wednesday June 12, 2024

Wednesday July 10, 2024

Wednesday

Wednesday

October 9, 2024

Wednesday November 13, 2024

Wednesday December 11, 2024

Wednesday January 8, 2025

Wednesday February 12, 2025

Wednesday March 12, 2025

Wednesday April 9, 2025

Wednesday May 14, 2025

Meetings called to order at 6:00 P.M.

DATES ORE GON FIRE PROTE CTION

DISTRICT FIRE FIGHTER PENSION FUND

Claims against the estate may be filed in th e office of the Clerk of the Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street # 300, Oregon, IL 61061 or with the representative, or both, on or before December 9, 2024, or wi thin 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act, wh ichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney wi thin 10 days after i t has been filed.

Claims against the estate may be filed in th e office of the Clerk of the Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street # 300, Oregon, IL 61061 or with the representative, or both, on or before December 9, 2024, or wi thin 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act, wh ichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney wi thin 10 days after i t has been filed.

KAY F. GUZZARDO Independent Executor

June 7, 14, 21, 2024

the Clerk of the Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street # 300, Oregon, IL 61061 or with the representative, or both, on or before December 9, 2024, or wi thin 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act, wh ichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney wi thin 10 days after i t has been filed.

August 14, 2024

Wednesday

September 11, 2024

Wednesday October 9, 2024

Wednesday November 13, 2024

Wednesday December 11, 2024

Wednesday

January 8, 2025

Wednesday February 12, 2025

Wednesday March 12, 2025

Wednesday April 9, 2025

Wednesday May 14, 2025

Meetings called to order at 6:00 P.M

Special or adjourned meet ings may be called from time to time ALL Meetings to be held in the office of the Trustees, Oregon Fire Protection Administration Building, 106 Sout h First Street, Oregon, Illinois.

VENDORS shall submit bi lls by 12:00 Noon on the Thursday prior to trustee meeting to receive payment on the above dates.

Meetings called to order at 6:00 P.M. Special or adjourned meet ings may be called from time to time

ALL Meetings to be held in the office of the Trustees, Oregon Fire Protection Administration Building, 106 Sout h First Street, Oregon, Illinois.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, IN MEETING A SSE MBLED

DATED May 8, 2024

Steve Carr President

June 21, 2024

Special or adjourned meet ings may be called from time to time ALL Meetings to be held in the office of the Trustees, Oregon Fire Protection Administration Building, 106 Sout h First Street, Oregon, Illinois.

VENDORS shall submit bi lls by 12:00 Noon on the Thursday prior to trustee meeting to receive payment on the above dates.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, IN MEETING A SSE MBLED DATED May 8, 2024

Steve Carr

President

June 21, 2024

QUARTERLY ME ETING

DATES

ORE GON FIRE PROTE CTION DISTRICT FIRE FIGHTER PENSION FUND MAY 1, 2024 THRU APRIL 30, 2025

Wednesday June 12, 2024

Wednesday September 11, 2024

Wednesday December 11, 2024

Wednesday March 12, 2025

Meetings called to order at 5:30 P.M

Special or adjourned meet ings may be called from time to time

ALL Meetings to be held in the office of the Trustee s, Oregon Fire Protection Administration Building, 106 Sout h First Street, Oregon, Illinois.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT FIREFIGHTER PENSION FUND, IN MEETING A SSE MBLED DATED June 12, 2024. Steve Carr President

June 21, 2024

MAY 1, 2024 THRU APRIL 30, 2025

Wednesday June 12, 2024

Wednesday September 11, 2024

Wednesday December 11, 2024

Wednesday March 12, 2025

Meetings called to order at 5:30 P.M.

Special or adjourned meet ings may be called from time to time ALL Meetings to be held in the office of the Trustee s, Oregon Fire Protection Administration Building, 106 Sout h First Street, Oregon, Illinois. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT FIREFIGHTER PENSION FUND, IN MEETING A SSE MBLED DATED June 12, 2024. Steve Carr President June 21, 2024

KAY F. GUZZARDO Independent Executor

June 7, 14, 21, 2024

VENDORS shall submit bi lls by 12:00 Noon on the Thursday prior to trustee meeting to receive payment on the above dates.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DIS-

ION FUND 1, 2024

OTICES

APRIL 30, 2025 Wednesday 12, 2024 Wednesday ember 11, 2024 Wednesday mber 11, 2024 Wednesday 12, 2025 called to 5:30 P.M. or admeet ings called from time eetings to in the of the Oregon ection Adon BuildSout h First regon, IlliRDER OF OARD OF USTEES OF OREGON ROTECTION

CT FIREPENUND, IN

G A SSE MJune 12, rr t June 21, 2024

VILLAG E OF MT. MORRIS NOTICE OF PUBL IC HEARING

AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO TAX INCRE ME NT FINANCE CAMPUS REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT ARE A (TIF#2) RE DEVE LOPMENT PROJECT AND PLAN

Pursuant to the Tax Increment Allocation Redev elopment Act of the State of Illinois, 65 ILCS 5/11-74.4-1 et seq., on September 9, 20 14, the Village of Mt. Morris (the "Village"), approved its Tax Increment Finance Campus Redevelopment Project Area (TIF #2) Redevelopment Plan and Project (the "Plan") The Village is now conside ring an amendment to the Plan, entitled "Campus Redevelopment Project Area Tax Increment Financing District Amendment No.1," as pr epared by SB Friedman Devel opment Advisors, LLC ("Amendment No 1") The purpose of Amendment No. 1 is to add the property loca ted at 2 W. H itt Street to the Campus Redevelopment Proj ect Area (the "Redevelopment Project Area"), update the future land use plan and redevelopment goals and objec tives, and revise the redevelopmen t proj ect budget.

A public hearing will be held on these matters on July 9, 2024, at 7:00 PM, at Village Hall, 105 W. Lincoln, Mt. Morris, Illinois 61054. All inter este d persons will be given an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing

This Notice also includes the following informat ion:

• The geographical boundaries of the Redevelopment Proj ect Area, as amended by Amendment No. 1 are as follows:

Subarea 1 - Downtown

Point of Beginning at the intersection of Seminary Avenue and Center Street, then north along Seminary Avenue to the intersection with Hitt Street, then East along Hitt Street to the intersecti on wit h McKend rie Avenue, then South along McKendrie Avenue to the intersection with the mid-block alley in between Center Street and Lincoln Street, then west along said alley to the intersection with Seminary Avenue, then North along Seminary Avenue to the intersection with Center Street, then West along C ente r Street to the Point of Begi nning.

1. Bound ed on the west by Seminary Avenue

2. Bound ed on the north by Hitt Street

3. Bound ed on the east by McKend rie Avenue

4, Bound ed on the south by mid-block alley between Center Street and Lincoln Street from McKendrie Avenue to Seminary Avenue, and then bounded on the south by Center Street between Seminary Avenue and Seminary Avenue

Subarea 2 - North RR Tracks

Point of Beginning a t the in tersection of First Street and Wesley Avenue, then North along Wesley Avenue to the in tersection wi th the railroad tracks, then continue northeast along Wesley Avenue to the intersect ion with McKend rie Avenue, then South along McKendrie Avenue to the intersection with First Street, then West along First Street to the Point of Beginning.

1. Bound ed on the west by Wesley Avenue

2. Bound ed on the north by Wesley Ave nue

3. Bound ed on the east by McKend rie Avenue

4. Bound ed on the south by First Street

Subarea 3 - Hitt Street Triangle

Point of Beginning at the in tersection of Main Street and McKend rie Avenue, then North along McKendri e Avenue to the intersection with the RR Tracks, then southeast along the RR to the intersection with Peterson Drive, then South along Peter son Drive to the intersection with Hitt Stree t, then west along Hitt Street to the inters ection wi th Ogle Avenue, then South along Ogle Avenue to the intersect ion with Main Street, then west along Main Street to the Point of Beginning.

1. Bound ed on the west by McKendr ie Avenue

2. Bound ed on the northeast by the RR Tracks

3. Bound ed on the east by Peter son Drive and Ogle Av enue

4. Bound ed on the South by Main Street

Subarea 4 - Route 64 Small Triangle

Point of Beginning at the intersection of Ogle Avenue and Front Street, then north along Ogle Avenue to the intersection with Hitt Street, then southeast along Hitt Street and IL Route 64 to the intersection with Front Street, then west along Front Street to the Point of Beginning.

1. Bound ed on the west by Ogle Avenue

2. Bound ed on the northeast by Hitt Street and IL Route 64

3. Bound ed on the south by Front St reet

Subarea 5 - Route 64 Single Parcel (201 E IL RTE 64)

Point of Beginning at the in tersection of Front Street and IL Route 64, then southeast along IL Route 64 to the mid-block between Front Street and Center Street, then west along mid-block to the southwest corner of the single parcel wit h addr ess 201 E IL RTE 64, then north along the west line of the single parcel with address 201 E IL RTE 64 to the intersection of Front Street, then east along Front Street to the Point of Beginning.

1. Bounded on the west by the west line of the parcel with addre ss 201 E IL RTE 64

2. Bounded on the north by Front Street

3. Bounded on the northeast by IL Route 64

4. Bounded on the south by the south line of the parcel with address 201 E IL RTE 64

Subarea 6 - Large Triangle Moose Lodge an d RR Tracks Point of Beginning at the intersection of Hitt Street (IL Route 64) and Peterson Drive, then east along Hitt Street to the intersection with the east line of the

then south along the east line of said parcel and the east line of the Moose Lodge parcel 101 MOOSE DR to the intersection with IL Route 64, then northwest along IL Route 64 to the Point of Beginning.

1. Bound ed on the southwest b y IL Route 64

2. Bound ed on the north by Hitt Street

3. Bound ed on the east by the east li ne of the parcel with address 427 E HITT ST and the Moose Lodge parcel with address 101 MOOSE DR

Subarea 7 - Carr Cour t properties (312 E. Hitt Street, 104, 106, 108 and 110 N. Carr C ourt)

Point of Beginning at the in tersection of Hitt Street and Carr Court, then north along Carr Court to the intersection wi th Hilt Street, then west along Hill Street to the west line of said Carr Court properties, the n south along the west line of said Carr Court properties to the intersection with Hitt Street, then east along Hi tt Street to the point of beginning.

1. Bound ed on the west by the west line of the Carr Court properties with addresses of 312 E. Hit Stre et, 104, 106, 108 and 110 N. Carr Court

2. Bound ed on the north by Hill Street

3. Bound ed on the east by Carr Court

4. Bound ed on the south by Hitt Street

Subarea 8 - 2 W. Hitt St as added by Amendment No. 1 OF PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS: Lot One (1) and Lot Two (2 ) of Midway Addition to the Village of Mt Morris, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Book B of Plats, page 30 in the Ogle County Recorder"s Office, EXCEPTING THE REFROM part of Lot 1 described as follows: Beginning at the Southeast Corner of said Lot 1; thence South 88 degrees 23 minute s 16 seconds West, a distance of 95. 15 feet on the South Line of said Lot 1; thence North 82 degrees 06 minutes 08 s econds East, a distance of 20.09 feet ; thence North 77 degrees 53 minutes 39 seconds East, a distance of 19.71 feet; thence North 73 degrees 41 minutes 11 seconds East, a distance of 19.71 feet; thence North 69 degrees 28 minutes 42 seconds East, a distance of 19.71 feet; thence North 55 degrees 54 minutes 03 seconds East, a dis tance of 17.27 feet; thence North 32 degrees 57 mi nutes 09 seconds East, a distan ce of 6.42 feet (6.33 feet deeded) to the East Line of said Lot 1; thence South 01 degree 29 minutes 19 seconds East along said East Line, a distance of 31.74 feet (31.66 fee t deeded) to the Point of Beginning; the above described property contains 0.392 acre, more or less, subjec t to all easements, agreements, city/subdivision codes and/or ordinances of record, if any, all situated in the Vil lage of Mt. Morris, the Township of Mt. Morris, the County of Ogle and the State of Illinois.

• The approximate s treet location and description of the Redevelopment Project Area is as follows: The properties consisting of those bounded by the intersection of North Wesley and North McKendrie Avenues on the north, Orchard Lane on the east, East Brayton Road on the south, and North Seminary Avenue on the wes t.

• Amendment No. 1 is currently on file at Mt. Morris Village Hall, Office of the Clerk, 105 W Lincoln St., Mt Morr is , Illinois 61054 This document is available for inspection during normal business hours, which are from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM on every Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. For any questions, please call the Village Clerk at (815) 734- 6425.

June 14, 21, 2024