Oregon and Erie-Prophetstown squared off Aug. 18 at Silver Ridge Golf Course / 23
Summer night session
“Heartache Tonight” sets attendance record for Mt. Morris Jamboree / 10
One section • 32 pages
DEATHS
Jeffery “Jeff” Jesse Akins, Robert H. Chamberlin, Jean E. Kump, Page 12
Earleen Hinton
Jake and Emmie Nicholson of Mt. Morris roll a large round straw bale down Wesley Avenue in Mt. Morris during the Straw Bale Race at Strawfest on Saturday. The team with the fastest
seconds.
MT. MORRIS TIMES
TIMES
oglecountynews.com ShawLocal.com
Winner announced at 10th annual Strawfest
Included in every subscription
Activate your digital access today. Visit: ShawLocal.com/digital-activation Call: 866-979-1053
OFFICE
113-115 Peoria Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 815-732-6166, ext. 2592
SUBSCRIPTIONS
1 month – $5.42
13 weeks – $16.25
26 weeks – $32.50
52 weeks – $65
To subscribe, make a payment or discuss your delivery, call 815-732-6166, ext. 2518, from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday-Friday or send an email to customer-support@shawmedia.com.
You also can subscribe online by going to oglecountynews.com and clicking on Subscribe.
CLASSIFIED SALES classified@shawlocal.com
HELP WANTED employment@shawlocal.com
LEGAL NOTICES sauklegals@shawlocal.com
OBITUARIES
saukobits@shawlocal.com
Deadline for obituaries is 2 p.m. Tuesday for Friday’s edition SEND NEWS news@oglecountynews.com
Publisher Jennifer Heintzelman 815-632-2502 jheintzelman@shawmedia.com
Jennifer Heintzelman 815-632-2502 jheintzelman@shawmedia.com
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 498, Sterling, IL 61081
All rights reserved. Copyright 2025 UNLIMITED
CORRECTIONS
Accuracy is important to the Mt. Morris Times. Please call errors to our attention by email at news@oglecountynews.com.
TOP: Visitors to Strawfest check out the four new creations before voting Saturday in Mt. Morris. ABOVE: The “King of the Leaves,” is sculpture #3 in the 2025 U.S. National Straw Sculpting Competition in Mt. Morris. It was created by Steve Lentz of Monticello, Wisconsin. LEFT: “Turkey in the Straw” is sculpture #1 at the 2025 U.S. National Straw Sculpting Competition in Mt. Morris. It was created by Chris and Cecilia Mann of Rockford.
HOW ARE WE DOING?
We want to hear from you. Email us your thoughts at feedback@shawmedia.com.
Photos by Earleen Hinton
Ogle County dog rescue brings rescues together
September event in Oregon lets people meet with adoptable dogs
By PAYTON FELIX pfelix@shawmedia.com
An Ogle County all-breed dog rescue is bringing multiple rescues together for a September event at which people can hang out with adoptable dogs.
The fifth annual event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 27 at Carnation Park, 1 Webster St. in Oregon. Aside from seeing the dogs, attendees can grab a bite to eat while shopping vendors for dog products and service providers, and participate in activities with prizes for kids, Bonafied rescue owner Melodee Hoffman told Shaw Local.
Bonafied, which stands for Bring Out Natural Abilities Found in Every Dog, was founded in 2017 with the goal to match orphaned dogs with loving families. To do that, the rescue has a comprehensive adoption and education process, Hoffman said.
The rescue takes in dogs of any age, breed or physical condition. All dogs are then spayed or neutered, given the appropriate veterinary care, and placed in foster homes before adoption, she said.
The September event is intended to raise awareness and educate the public about the overpopulation and need for homes for animals that would otherwise be euthanized, Hoffman said.
All funds raised from the event will go toward the care of dogs at Bonafied.
For information, contact Hoffman at bonafied@yahoo.com or 815-9739162.
Those looking to be a vendor at the event are required to pay a $20 fee and turn in the signup form to Bonafied at P.O. Box 66, Oregon, IL 61061. Vendors also are asked to donate a basket, product or service valued at $15 to $20 that will be included in prizes.
at the dog park in Oregon’s Carnation Park. The fifth annual event will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 27 at the park.
Investment & Trust Services
•
•
•
•
Shaw Local News Network file photo
Jessica Fair of Oregon decks out her dog, Jazzy, during Bonafied’s first Rescue Rally in 2020
Monroe Center Fire adopts new staffing model
Ogle County town made the change because of increasing number of calls for service
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Monroe Township Fire Protection District has seen success with a new daytime fire and emergency medical services staffing model since January, Deputy Chief Richard Wilson said Aug. 4.
On Jan. 6, the station began staffing from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to better service its residents and improve response times, with plans to possibly expand to seven-day coverage in the future. The move was made due to an increasing number of calls for service during working hours, when many paid on-call members are unavailable due to their career commitments.
“The new staffing model has drastically helped our community through quicker response times,” Wilson said. “We are evaluating expanding right now with funding. Right now, it’s working out great, and the community is being served. We’ve seen a drastic reduction in mutual aid coming into our community to cover our town while all of our personnel are at work. The calls that we couldn’t respond to last year were in the 30th percentile. Now we’re at around the 12th percentile.”
Before the staffing change, mutual-aid companies from the area including Kirkland, Lynn Scott Rock, New Milford and Stillman were responding to more calls in Monroe Township’s coverage area.
“They were getting a lot of the burden,” Wilson said. “All of our employees are paid on-call and work jobs outside of town and were unavailable. Stillman fire has a full-time ambulance. LSR has people around during the daytime. This being an older community with no volunteers in town, we were relying on them. We’re starting to take more care of our own community.”
The Monroe Township fire district mostly responds to medical calls. From January to the end of July, it received 60 EMS calls. Last year, that number was 55 over the same period. Total calls
from January through July last year was 91, and this year it’s at 105. With the increase in calls, the new staffing model has been on-site for service three days a week.
With its proximity to Interstate 39, the Monroe Township fire district on occasion responds to serious highway incidents, and did as recently as July 26 for a two-vehicle crash with multiple injuries. One person suffered severe injuries and required helicopter transport. Wilson said responses like that wouldn’t have been possible without response from mutual-aid companies from the area.
“In the fire service, a firefighter is a firefighter,” Wilson said. “They all have the same common goals of protecting lives and saving property, in that order. You can go to another state or country and the same goal applies. It’s life safety first and then property conservation. We’re an all-hazards fire department. We respond to everything.”
On July 18, the Monroe Township fire district put a new 2024 ambulance into service, replacing a 2006 unit. The new ambulance was bought due to high maintenance costs on the older model. Wilson said the new ambulance will serve the district for the next 15 to 20
years and has upgraded technology to aid personnel and patients such as power-loading cots and a power-assisted stair chair.
Wilson credited Monroe Township Fire Chief Scott Jaeger and EMS coordinator Capt. Michaelle Jaeger for their work on acquiring the new ambulance and putting it into service.
“The new ambulance took hours and hours to get and get put into service,” Wilson said. “It goes from evaluating what you want and what you need. The needs outweigh the wants, and it comes down to dollars and cents. Once you identify the need, you have to be forward-thinking. We read articles and learned about the newest, best technology. The chief is a good steward of taxpayers’ money, and he came up with a good proposal with the EMS coordinator, and the board approved it.”
The new ambulance saw a twomonth delay in delivery due to supply chain issues, and the Monroe Township fire district worked to outfit it for two months before it was put into service. Wilson thanked taxpayers for allowing the district to purchase equipment and stay current.
The new staffing model has seen a positive response from people in the
community, Wilson said.
“One person recently called 911 for their mother, who was not feeling well,” Wilson said. “The station was staffed at the time. We pulled up, and the 911 caller told me they were going to drive themselves because they thought it would take too long for the ambulance to get there. And we pulled into the driveway, and the caller was surprised. We want the fact that we’re doing daytime staffing to get out to the community.”
Wilson previously worked as a battalion chief in a full-time fire department for 26 years in a suburb outside Chicago. He’s been with the Monroe Township fire district for about 17 years and noticed the difference in longer response times in rural communities.
“Those services, you hang up the phone and people are pulling into the driveway,” Wilson said. “Here, people were OK with 15-minute response times. We’ve almost cut that in half just with daytime help. We can be out of the station within one to three minutes. We can be at the house within six to seven minutes versus 15 to 20 minutes. People have made comments about how fast it’s been. That’s another feather in our cap of doing our job right.”
Jeff Helfrich
The Monroe Township Fire Protection District has seen success with a new daytime fire and EMS staffing model since starting it in January, Deputy Chief Richard Wilson (right) said Aug. 4. Also seen are District EMS Coordinator Capt. Michaelle Jaeger (from left), and firefighter/EMT Tyler Kilcullen.
Ogle County Board denies 2 solar permits
Update on long-range planning projects
presented, including memorial circle plaza
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Ogle County Board voted unanimously Aug. 19 to deny special-use permits for two solar energy developments.
The first proposed development was for a 5-megawatt community solar energy facility on 89.56 acres in the 7000 block of North Stillman Road in Scott and Marion townships. Those township boards also voted against the proposal, along with the Ogle County Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning and Zoning Committee.
Residents of the area near the proposed solar facility attended the meeting and held up signs thanking the County Board after the denials. One resident
people who simply chose to live where they chose to live.”
A representative from U.S. Solar, the developer of the Stillman Creek Solar project, also spoke during public commentary and said he hopes to come to a compromise with the county for a project to go forward in the future.
“It’s obviously not the outcome we were hoping for,” Ryan Magnoni of U.S. Solar said. “U.S. Solar is open to hearing any conditions that could be added to the application to find a happy medium for residents and the public to eventually move this forward.”
The second special-use permit denied Tuesday was for Cenergy Power for the construction of a 5-megawatt community solar energy facility on 29.34 acres at 9336 E. Hales Corner Road in Scott Township.
spoke during public commentary.
“You voted for your constituents and for your people, and you said no,”
Heather Lalor of Stillman Valley said.
“You said, ‘Not here,’ where it has the potential to negatively impact so many
The Ogle County Board has considered a number of special-use permits for solar facilities in recent years, often hearing public comments from residents against them.
See COUNTY BOARD on page 9
Jeff Helfrich
Ogle County Board Chairman Bruce Larson (right) and Board Vice Chairwoman Patricia Nordman are shown at the board’s monthly meeting Aug. 19, when the board voted unanimously to deny two special-use permits for solar developments.
Hiemstra hired to lead economic development
New director takes the helm at Ogle
County Economic Development Corporation
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
On her first day on the job, new Ogle County Economic Development Corporation Director Liz Hiemstra took a picture of Oregon’s downtown from the window of her courthouse office.
“I did it just so I could look back in five or 10 years and see how it’s changed,” Hiemstra said. “I’m excited to see those wins for our communities so people can continue to have their small-town pride. I’m excited to welcome new people into the area and show them what we have to offer.”
Hiemstra was hired by the OCEDC to fill its vacant director position last month. The OCEDC was established in 2023 as a nonprofit economic development organization representing a unified effort by the entire county. It represents the communities of Polo, Oregon, Mt. Morris, Byron and Creston. Ogle County and the city of Rochelle also provided startup funds for the organization. Charlene Coulombe was the organization’s previous director.
Hiemstra has lived in Oregon for the past 30 years. She currently serves as the market manager for the River’s Edge Farmers Market in Oregon and has her own small business in Libra Farms. She brings a background in marketing, community engagement and small business expertise.
Hiemstra said she has become more involved in the community in the past 10 years, including working with the Oregon Together nonprofit and, along with Melanie Cozzi, taking over the farmers market.
“I want to be involved and I love my community,” Hiemstra said. “I want to do what I can. I expressed that to [Oregon City Manager and OCEDC Board Vice President Darin DeHaan] and said I wanted to be part of the community in any way I could. When this opportunity came along, I applied and interviewed, and was hired.”
OCEDC Board President Randy Schoon of Polo said, “It means everything” to the OCEDC to have Hiemstra
I’m excited to see those wins for our communities so people can continue to have their small-town pride. I’m excited to welcome new people into the area and show them what we have to offer.”
on board as director. He said the organization is excited to have a longtime county resident and active community member as its leader and face.
“It’s almost like the stars aligned,” Schoon said. “She is going to do great things, and the sky is the limit for her. She just has to put her head down and do the work. She’s very capable, and we’re more excited than we’ve been since we put the OCEDC together. I think we’re at the point now where we’re finally going to start to see some good things happen.”
Hiemstra said that as a small-business owner, she’s realized the workload it takes to be successful in business, beyond just knowledge and passion. That was one of the reasons she was interested in the OCEDC director position, and she plans to use that experi -
ence when working with current and potential businesses.
Initial OCEDC work for Hiemstra has included visiting each town and entity the organization represents and meeting with its leaders and stakeholders.
“I’ve been working to immerse myself in the towns I’m not as familiar with,” Hiemstra said. “I’ve been trying to reach out and get an idea of what these communities have, need and want. I’ve been really impressed with the work these communities are already doing. I feel like there’s momentum and we’re on the brink of something really great.”
Schoon and Hiemstra said top priorities for the OCEDC include housing, business retention, attracting industry, marketing and promotion, capital devel-
opment, recreation, sports and tourism.
Housing will be the No. 1 objective, Hiemstra said. Some homebuilding is currently taking place in Creston and Byron, and Mt. Morris, Polo and Oregon have “prime subdivision real estate” waiting on development, she said.
“We’ve been talking to local builders,” Hiemstra said. “There are a few out there that are building homes that are being sold. We know that there is an appetite. It’s just about finding that sweet spot of making sure everyone has a home that is affordable and works for them. Different towns have different needs. There are some vacant buildings. We want to see more retail in downtowns and bring that sense of place. With industry, there are some empty industrial buildings and plots that are ripe for development. That’s on the horizon, too.”
OCEDC meetings involving the leaders of the various communities in recent years have brought about collaboration and idea sharing that didn’t previously exist. Hiemstra said working as a team to improve the county as a whole is needed, along with making for a louder voice in the industrial development arena and at the state level for potential opportunities.
“We have to work together to make our voices heard and get what we need for our beautiful small towns,” Hiemstra said. “Rural populations have been declining. And with that goes a lot of our amenities. The things that we want to see, we have to be able to support. I enjoy work like this because I love meeting new people and talking with people. I like to hear about what people have going on in their lives. I love being creative. This job is a lot of creativity and putting puzzle pieces together to create solutions that have a tangible impact I can see.”
Jeff Helfrich
The Ogle County Economic Development Corporation recently announced the appointment of Liz Hiemstra as its new director of economic development.
Liz Hiemstra, director, Oglce County Economic Development Corporation
Enjoying another super day at Polo’s museum
POLO HISTORY
Betty Obendorf
It was another super Saturday at the museum. We never know who will come through the door, and so I was delighted to have Marjorie Kuehl of Rochelle stop by. She is a relative of Iowa Kuehl, and she pronounces her last name a bit differently than we did in Polo when Iowa was teaching.
She came with a very large laminated sheet from a newspaper of seventh and eighth graders making apple dolls in an art class under Mrs. Kuehl. Marlow Huff was one of those in the picture. He had just been at the museum with the Class of 1970 the Saturday before. They had their reunion and one of their stops was the
museum in Polo.
Other students in the picture are Alan Coffman, David Byrd, Karen Millhouse and Jeanne Clothier. This was Polo’s fifth year of making apple dolls, and it was quite a project. They did it every other year. How many of you remember making apple dolls?
I thought right away of the dolls I have at Henry School. Are they apple dolls? I had decided that I needed to make a trip down to Henry School to check that out. I needed to check the school anyway since Polo Historical Society is having its picnic Wednesday, Sept. 10.
Then out of the blue came Kristen from Polo to the museum. She wanted to see Henry School. Ted was there, so Ted, Kristen and myself headed down to the school to check things out. The school is in pretty good shape since we had cleaned it in June
when the Raley family wanted to see the school. Joanne and Ted will get the school in shape for our picnic.
The dolls did not turn out to be apple dolls but were corn husk dolls made by a class of Frances Dempsey. Were they also an art project of Iowa’s?
We have decided to have an Iowa Kuehl Day at our picnic, and anyone who has an art project can bring it for a “Show and Tell” time. I will also talk about how apple dolls were made. It was an interesting process.
After looking at some of the buttons from the Polo Garment Factory, I pulled the file of the Polo Button Club. This group gathered together in the 1950s and 1960s. Mrs. Pauline Schell was the first president. Diane Porter was a junior member and gave numerous programs. In 1965 she went to Europe and she brought back a
pearl button for each member.
Dot Scaggs was a button person and had wonderful buttons at her antique shop in Polo. One day a member of the Aplington family stopped by, and they were very interested in the buttons on the uniform we have on display. I said, “Are you button people?” They said, “Yes.” I sent them to Dot’s Shop and they bought $1,200 worth of buttons. They had to go to the bank and get a certified check. That is a lot of buttons. Dot was very pleased. That was my experience with buttons.
Remember the picnic at Henry School on Wednesday, Sept. 10, at 6 p.m. Bring a dish to pass and your own table service. See you there.
• Betty Obendorf is a retired teacher and volunteer for the Polo Historical Society.
The story of the Great Seal of the United States
Otto Dick OGLE COUNTY HISTORY
The metal die impression device that is used to produce the United States seal is kept by the United States Secretary of State.
This device produces the seal on official government documents. This seal was first used in 1782 to authenticate certain documents issued by the federal government of the United States.
The metal dies used to produce the U.S. seal on documents eventually wore down, requiring replacement dies.
The current die is the seventh engraving of the seal, and the actual design on the dies has evolved over time.
The first die was made of brass and
measured 2 1/6 inches in diameter and 1/2-inch thick. The first die used until 1841 is on display in the National Archives in Washington, D.C.
On July 4, 1776, the same day that independence from Great Britain was declared by the 13 colonies, the Continental Congress named the first committee to design a Great Seal, or national emblem, for the country.
It took six years, three committees, and the contributions of 14 men before the Congress finally accepted a design in 1782. The first committee consisted of Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams.
In 1782, Secretary Charles Thomson used the American bald eagle holding a shield which had 13 red and white stripes. This eagle’s claws held an olive branch and a bundle of 13 arrows. The eagle is holding in its beak a scroll bearing the motto, “Out of many, one.”
The eagle has its head turned toward the olive branch on its right side to symbolize a preference for peace.
Above the eagle’s head appears a crest with 13 stars. The recurring number of 13 on this Great Seal refers to the 13 original states.
The 13 arrows and olive branches symbolize that the United States has a strong desire for peace, but will always be ready for war.
The back of the seal features a truncated pyramid topped by an Eye of Providence. The year of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, 1776, is noted in Roman numerals at the base of the pyramid.
The seal and its press were saved when Washington, D.C., was burned, although no one knows who rescued the pieces.
Today the Great Seal is featured on the back of the United States $1 bill.
• Otto Dick is a retired teacher and has researched Ogle County history for several years.
Image provided by Otto Dick The Great Seal of the United States
Lawnmower blamed for rural Oregon fire
By EARLEEN HINTON
Shaw Local News Network correspondent
A rural Oregon home was significantly damaged Aug. 20 after a fire started in an attached garage.
Oregon firefighters responded to the 500 block of Elizabeth Road about 4:40 p.m. and saw flames coming from the roof of the one-level, ranch home.
Oregon Fire Chief Michael Knoup said the fire started in the home’s attached garage.
“The owner stated he had just finished mowing and parked the mower in the garage about five minutes prior to discovering the mower on fire in the garage,” Knoup said.
A neighbor said she saw smoke coming from the garage and called 911.
The homeowner was able to reenter the home to retrieve his dog, she said.
“He was able to get the dog outside, but he still has a cat missing, but it was not found inside the house,” Knoup said Wednesday evening. “The fire was accidental in nature and started on the lawnmower in the garage. The house did sustain significant damage with
the fire, extending up into the attic space.”
Knoup said the homeowner is being assisted with housing by the Red Cross.
“No firefighters or civilians were
injured in the fire,” Knoup said.
Four area fire departments – Mt. Morris, Franklin Grove, Lynn-ScottRock and Stillman Valley – assisted Oregon at the scene.
The home is located at the end of a cul-de-sac in a rural residential area east of South Daysville Road that is not served by city water and has no fire hydrants.
Man accused of running from cops with loaded gun
Alexander Kurtz will remain in jail as his case proceeds through courts
By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent
A Rockford man accused of running from police through Byron while carrying a loaded gun will remain in jail as his case proceeds through the court system.
Alexander Kurtz, 19, was remanded to the Ogle County Jail on Wednesday after Ogle County Associate Judge Anthony Peska denied Kurtz’s request to be released pending his next court date, Aug. 27.
Kurtz is charged with the felony offenses of unlawful use of a stolen firearm, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, resisting a peace officer, and illegal possession of ammunition without a Firearm Owner Identification Card.
All the charges stem from a traffic stop in Byron. Kurtz was arrested at 6:39 p.m. Tuesday Aug. 19, by Ogle County sheriff’s deputies when the vehicle he was a passenger in was stopped near the intersection of West Blackhawk Drive and South Fox Run Lane in Byron.
Court documents say Kurtz ran away from a deputy after being told to stop while carrying an AREX Delta X 9 mm handgun “with knowledge it had been stolen and without being entitled to possess the firearm.”
During Kurtz’s detention hearing Aug. 20 afternoon, Assistant State’s Attorney Allison Huntley said Kurtz ignored commands to halt and ran through a residential area in Byron with the gun that was loaded with 17 rounds, but had no bullet in
the chamber.
“He had a loaded handgun out in the public, running from police. He had to be tased to be stopped,” Huntley said.
Assistant Public Defender Eric Morrow asked Peska to release Kurtz since he had no criminal history, was employed, and could stay with family as his case proceeds through the court system.
“The weapon was not brandished,” Morrow said. “The allegations are that it was in his possession. There are conditions the court could set for his release. He has no criminal history at all.”
Huntley disagreed.
“There are no set of conditions that would be sufficient to protect residents,” she said. “He was running around Byron with a loaded gun...in a residential area.”
Peska agreed, noting that Kurtz failed to comply with the deputy’s directions while carrying a loaded, stolen gun.
“These are concerning actions.” Peska said. He set Kurtz’s preliminary hearing for 10 a.m. Aug. 27.
During detention hearings, a judge determines whether to release a defendant from custody as the case proceeds through the court system.
Criteria used by judges to make that decision include the nature of the alleged offenses, whether the defendant’s release would pose a “clear and present danger” to the community or certain individuals, and whether the defendant is considered to be a “flight risk” and likely will not appear again for scheduled court cases.
The driver of the vehicle Kurtz was riding in, Skylar J Risner, 20, of Rockford, was cited for improper lane use and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. He was released on a notice to appear.
Another passenger, Jordan Jarvis, 20, of Sterling, was cited for unlawful possession of cannabis as a passenger. He was released with a notice to appear.
Earleen Hinton
Oregon firefighters responded to a garage fire in the 500 block of Elizabeth Road on Aug. 20.
Alexander Kurtz
from page 5
At its June meeting, the board denied a special-use permit for a solar facility in Mt. Morris Township by a vote of 17-4, with residents citing the property’s value as farmland.
Back in December, the board narrowly approved a special-use permit for a solar project between Forreston and Polo after previously denying that project due to it being on productive farmland. That petitioner changed its siting to less productive farmland and filed a lawsuit against Ogle County for the denial, stemming from a new state law that set statewide standards for wind and solar farm siting and took away previous local controls such as at the county level.
Planning committee updates
The board heard a facilities update from long-range planning committee Chairman Don Griffin during the meeting. Griffin updated the board on work that has been done in the basement of the old Ogle County Courthouse and introduced Steve Nelson of Larson & Darby engineering.
At its Aug. 19, meeting, the Ogle County Board heard a report on proposed plans for a memorial circle plaza at the former site of the previous Ogle County Jail.
Nelson said a roof replacement is planned for the old Ogle County Courthouse in the coming months and presented proposed plans for a memorial circle plaza on the south end of the old courthouse, the former site of the previous Ogle County Jail.
Nelson said the project would be broken into three phases due to needed funds and would involve fundraising. Three benches for the project
already have been donated. The first phase would include a statue on a podium with a circular concrete sidewalk surrounding it, connecting to existing sidewalk. Landscaping and shrubbery would be included as well.
The second phase would include a curved walkway into the memorial from the east, with a total of seven benches. The third phase would include landscaping including trees
and shrubs, along with a canopy, the most expensive aspect of the project.
Constellation approval
The board voted 16-5 to approve a rezoning of 184.98 acres of land in the 4000 block of North Black Walnut Road in Marion Township from agricultural to industrial use for Constellation Energy, the owner of the Byron Nuclear Plant.
The Ogle County Board voted back in August 2024 to rezone 524 acres of land owned by Constellation around the Byron Nuclear Plant from agricultural to industrial as Constellation considers attracting industrial development, such as data centers.
“I want to thank the board for its vote of support tonight on behalf of our nearly 800 employees, site vice president and our plant family,” Ryan Tozer, Constellation manager of local government affairs, said Aug. 19.
Vehicle purchase
The board unanimously voted during the meeting to spend $52,464.20 in opioid funds to purchase a 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe for the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office. The new vehicle will replace a squad car that was recently totaled in a crash.
Jeff Helfrich
Heartache Tonight sets attendance record for Mt. Morris Jamboree
By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Heartache Tonight, an Eagles tribute band, now holds the record for the largest crowd at the Jamboree Concert Series in Mt. Morris.
The popular band filled the lawn circling the Warren Reckmeyer Band Shell on Aug. 22, all to the delight of Jamboree organizer Larry Ubben.
“We have 2,200 here tonight,” said Ubben, sitting in the middle of the large crowd that came out to the free concert on a perfect summer night.
When the lawn area was filled, concertgoers set up their chairs on Wesley Avenue, which is closed for traffic during the concerts.
The previous record this year was 1,400 set by Rocks Off, a Rolling Stones tribute band. But Brass from the Past, playing a selection of Motown, soul and rock tunes, with a large horn and rhythm section, was a close second with 1,350, and the Chicago Tribute Anthology, a tribute band for the iconic band Chicago, followed with 1,200.
“Heartache Tonight is one of the finest Eagles tributes in the
country,” Ubben said. “They always put on a great show.”
The 2025 concert series wraps up with a special performance on Wednesday, Aug. 27, by the AllStar Superband, making its Jamboree debut.
That band’s original performance date of July 11 had to be canceled due to inclement weather.
“We were able to find another suitable date for the group to play this summer,” Ubben said.
The All Star Superband, hailng from Milwaukee, is an 18-piece rehearsal big band.
Ubben said the band has been performing every week since the year 2000 and has been featured in concerts alongside Mindi Abair, Bobby Caldwell, Sal Lozano and Doc Severinsen.
“They are known for performing a wide variety of big band jazz from classic musicians like Count Basie, Stan Kenton and Woody Herman.”
On Friday, Aug. 29, Fortunate Sons, a Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band, closes out the 2025 season from 7-9 p.m.
Photos by Earleen Hinton
TOP LEFT: Heartache Tonight, an Eagles tribute band, performed at the Jamboree Concert Series in Mt. Morris on Aug. 22. TOP RIGHT: Downtown Mt. Morris was packed with people on Aug. 22, as 2,200 turned out to hear Heartache Tonight, an Eagles tribute band, play at the Jamboree Concert Series. ABOVE: The lawn surrounding the Warren Reckmeyer Bandshell in downtown Mt. Morris was packed with people to hear Heartache Tonight. LEFT: Heartache Tonight, an Eagles tribute band, performed at the Jamboree Concert Series in Mt. Morris on Aug. 22.
Ogle County judge clears man of aggravated battery
By EARLEEN HINTON
Shaw Local News Network correspondent
A Chicago man accused of beating an Oregon man at a March 2024 gathering in rural Oregon was acquitted of felony aggravated battery Monday, Aug. 18, after a one-day bench trial.
Vincente Estrada-Martinez, 44, was found not guilty after Ogle County Associate Judge Anthony Peska listened to witness testimony in the morning and attorney arguments in the afternoon at the Ogle County Judicial Center in Oregon.
“The court finds you not guilty,” Peska told Estrada-Martinez. “I believe self-defense was justified.”
The Ogle County State’s Attorney’s Office had charged Estrada-Martinez with aggravated battery, a Class 3 felony, alleging that he caused “great bodily harm” when he punched the man and broke his nose.
Assistant State’s Attorney Melissa Voss argued that Estrada-Martinez also broke the man’s ribs following a verbal altercation during which the man made a slur about Estrada-Martinez’s daughter.
“[Estrada-Martinez] didn’t just hit him once,” Voss said, adding that the man suffered “severe” injuries, including broken ribs and damaged teeth. “This wasn’t self-defense. This was a beating.”
But Estrada-Martinez’s attorney, Melinda Jacobson of Rockford, said Estrada-Martinez was acting in self-defense when the man – who she said was heavily intoxicated – was verbally abusive to other people at the party and threatened to “kill everyone.”
“These things do not happen in a vacuum. It all happened very quickly,” Jacobson said.
Jacobson said the alleged victim was the aggressor and had argued and fought with others at the party before Estra -
da-Martinez stepped in to try to calm the situation.
“[The man] came back with what was believed to be a weapon, wearing a hoodie, with his hands in his pockets,” she said. “That was a real threat.”
Jacobson said Estrada-Martinez took physical action in an attempt to save others.
“This was self-defense, and this was also defense of others,” she said. “There were no weapons. This was a fist fight. My client believed his actions were necessary to not only protect himself, but everyone who was present.”
Jacobson said that after someone called 911, Estrada-Martinez chose to stay at the ranch and cooperate with police. She said her client struck the man because he believed his threat to “kill everyone” was real.
“A drunk person can pull a trigger as well as anyone,” Jacobson said.
Voss disagreed, arguing that Estra -
da-Martinez became angry when the man made a slur about Estrada-Martinez’s daughter.
“[Estrada-Martinez] did not have a right to create great bodily harm,” Voss said.
In reviewing witness testimony, Peska said the alleged victim had been drinking and could not remember who hit him when questioned.
Both the defendant and the man testified through Spanish-speaking interpreters.
“[The alleged victim] had something inside his hoodie and asked if anyone wanted to start a problem and said he was going to kill all the people at the party,” Peska said. “That is alarming in itself.”
Peska also said he did not believe Estrada-Martinez was responsible for causing the broken nose.
“I do not believe the defendant caused the injury,” Peska said.
OBITUARIES
JEAN E. KUMP
Born: October 13, 1932 in Seward, IL
Died: August 21, 2025 in Oregon, IL
OREGON, IL ~ Jean Elizabeth Kump, age 92, went to be with the Lord and Savior in the early morning hours of Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Serenity Hospice and Home of Oregon, IL. She was born October 13, 1932, in Seward, IL, the daughter of Bernard & Caroline (Markam) Cook. She married the
JEFFERY “JEFF” JESSE AKINS
Born: December 31, 1942 in Freeport, IL
Died: August 22, 2025 in Rockford, IL
Jeffery Jesse Akins of Forreston, IL passed away on August 22, 2025 after spending his last days surrounded by his family.
Jeffery was born on December 31, 1942 to Harry and Mildred Akins. He graduated from Forreston High School in 1961 after spending summers working at a camp for the visually impaired in Vermont called Camp Wapanacki alongside his sister, Cindy Walker. Jeff went on to obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree from Carthage College in Kenosha, WI in 1966. After he obtained his degree, Jeff was drafted into the
love of her life Evert “Sam” Kump on February 19, 1955, and spent the next 60 years building a life together. Jean was a very dedicated woman; she worked for over 25 years as the secretary to the principal of Oregon High School where she was meticulous and organized. She was a member of the Women of the Moose lodge for several years. Jean was very devout in her faith to the catholic church and was held in high regards as a member of The Catholic Daughters group at Saint Mary Catholic Church of Oregon, IL. Beyond her faith, she enjoyed spending her time reading, gardening, and canning fruits and vegetables. Above all else, Jean was dedicated to her family the most. She was a loving grandmother and a favorite aunt who would never forget birthdays or anniversaries.
United States Army and served 1 year in Vietnam. Jeffery was honored to serve his country and was truly patriotic throughout his life. Jeff started his career at Motorola TV. He then began working at First National Bank of Freeport as a loan officer and met his wife, Cynthia Clarke. Jeffery and Cynthia had 3 daughters, Tanya, Amanda, and Kimberly.
Jeffery worked for First National Bank for 17 years and during his tenure there was promoted to Assistant Vice President. He also worked for Stillman Bank and Heritage Credit Union during his career. Jeff always had a love for numbers, and he passed peacefully at 8:22am on August 22, 2025.
Jeffery’s pride was his 3 daughters, so he became part of the Girl Scouts of America Board of Directors for over a decade, also serving for a time as treasurer. This was a passion for Jeffery because he had 3 girls that actively participated in Girl Scouts.
How to submit: Send obituary information to saukobits@shawlocal.com or call 815-526-4438. Notices are accepted until 2 p.m. Tuesday for Friday’s edition. Obituaries also appear online at shawlocal.com, where you may sign the guest book, send flowers or make a memorial donation.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Sam, son Michael Kump, sisters Genevieve (Cook) Rothermel, Mary (Cook) Krause, Pauline (Cook) Diesing, brothers Delmar Cook, Frederick Cook, infant brother William Cook and son-in-law Dennis Donahue. Jean is survived and missed dearly by her loving daughter Deborah (Kump) Donahue, Anchorage, AK; brother Don Cook of Freeport, IL; sister Adelaide (Cook) Snyder of Polo, IL; grandchildren Meghan (Steven) Antonucci of Stanwood, WA; Ryan (Kristina Mattle) Donahue of Anchorage, AK; Cameron (Bryn) Donahue of Spokane, WA and greatgrandchildren Jaxon, McKenna, Gus, over 44 nieces and nephews from both sides of her family, and many more near and dear family and friends.
A visitation will be held on September 2,
Jeff was also honored to serve on the Forreston Library Board for 3 years and as Director for 1 year. This was another area of service where he committed his time to honor his 3 daughters.
Jeffery loved his family, his yard, nature, National Parks, animals, Sunday car rides, everything small town and outdoors. If you wanted to find Jeff, all you needed to do was look in his yard and he would be on his lawn mower doing what he enjoyed. Jeff’s sense of humor was known to everyone that enjoyed their time with him. Jeff made jokes until his very last day. Jeff enjoyed spending time with his 3 girls and later in life, his 4 grandchildren, Keegan Jeffery, Maddox Robert, Owen George, and Hazel Elizabeth Marjorie.
Jeffery is survived by Tanya (Duncan) Doyle of Denver, CO, Mandy (Kirk) Pearson of Freeport/Dixon, IL and Kim Akins of Forreston, IL, his grandchildren Keegan Akins, Maddox Busk-
ROBERT H. CHAMBERLIN
Born: March 10, 1924
Died: August 10, 2025
2025, between the hours of 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM with Father Bernard Sehr presiding. Jean, along with her son Michael, will be laid to rest alongside her husband at Saint Mary Catholic Cemetery of Oregon, IL. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be directed to Serenity Hospice and Home so that they may continue their amazing work.
Robert H. Chamberlin, age 101, of Dixon, formerly of the Oregon area, died August 10, 2025 in Liberty Court, Dixon, IL. For most of his life, he was a farmer in the Oregon-Nashua Township Ogle County. He was born March 21, 1924, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of Glenn and Rthel (Hartsook) Chamberlin. In 1970 he married Dixie Loan of Oregon. Following her death he married Alicia
er, Owen Doyle and Hazel Doyle, his beloved brother, John, and his sister-in-law, Wilma. Jeffrey was pre-deceased by his parents, his brother, James, and his sister-in-law, Alice, his brother, Jared, and his sister-in-law, Delores, his sister, Cynthia, and his brother-in-law, Roger Walker.
Services will be held at Faith Lutheran Church in Forreston, IL on August 28, 2025. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:30am at the church with the memorial service to follow. Jeff’s family, friends and the Forreston community are invited to celebrate his life and share jokes in his honor at a luncheon at the church following the service. The family requests donations be made to Faith Lutheran Church and Fisher House Foundation.
Jeff is sadly missed by his daughters, Tanya, Mandy and Kim, his beloved grandchildren, Keegan, Maddox, Owen, and Hazel and his very best friend, Susan Tyrrell, an angel on earth.
Vera Garcia.
Bob attended Oregon elementary and high schools. Later, following World War II, he earned a degree from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb. In those years, it was a small teachers college. One of his interests was aviation, and he held an active pilots license for 20 years.
He served in the Navy during World War II in the Pacific theatre aboard the cruiser USS Louisville. He saw service in the last major campaign of that war.
Survivors include his wife, Alicia of Dixon; stepsons, James Loan and Daniel Loan of Denver; and stepdaughter, Marcia Grove of Peoria. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Dolores (Dee) Little; brother, Glenn Chamberlin; and sister, Nancy O’Leary.
A private burial will be held in Daysville Cemetery. All arrangements were handled by Finch Funeral Home of Mt. Morris.
Woman calls for compassion for families of two men who died in June 14 shooting
Police say investigation continues
By EARLEEN HINTON
Shaw Local News Network correspondent
A woman who knew one of two men shot and killed at a Polo home in June made a public plea at the Polo school board meeting Aug. 20 asking for “grace and forgiveness” for the 19-year-old who police say shot a 29-year-old man before taking his own life.
Joshua M. Conway, 19, of rural Polo and Michael C. Gul, 29, of Wauconda were found dead on the third floor of a Polo teacher’s home in the 500 block of West Mason Street late June 14.
Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle said the Polo Police Department and Ogle County Sheriff’s Office responded to the home at 11:58 p.m. after receiving a report of a shooting with one adult male victim and at least one adult woman held at gunpoint by another man inside the residence.
On June 16, law enforcement identified Conway, a 2024 graduate of Polo High School, as the male with the handgun. Law enforcement officials have said the investigation into the deaths is continuing.
“I am just basically asking people for grace and forgiveness for Josh and his family,” said the woman, a relative of Conway, after speaking during the public comment period of the meeting.
She urged compassion for the families of both men and said some family members had been harassed on social media sites.
“His [Gul] family lost someone, too. His children don’t have a father now. People need to have compassion for him, too,” she said. “Hopefully, this can shine some light on mental illness.”
The August meeting was the first school board meeting following the board’s June 18 meeting, where about 125 people attended, with some making emotional statements alleging “inappropriate contact” between the teacher and Conway.
Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle said the female was able to flee the resi-
dence with other members of the household.
He said when members of the Ogle County Emergency Response Team and the Northwest Critical Incident Response Team entered the residence they found Conway dead on the third floor of the home from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Gul, a 2014 graduate of Prophetstown High School, also was found dead on the third floor.
At the June 18 Polo school board meeting, several people – including family and friends of Conway – gave emotional statements to the board alleging misconduct by a female high school teacher.
“How was it handled?” Conway’s sister asked. “It wasn’t. Josh was a victim of something that never should have happened.”
Some friends of Conway accused school officials of not acting on the “many” accusations and “shoving them under the rug,” arguing the teacher should be investigated.
Others expressed sorrow for both families, noting the impact on the Polo community and other high school students.
Polo School Board President Matt Mekeel read a prepared statement to
We’re paying attention. Where’s your accountability? I’m really disgusted by some of your actions ... sweeping this under the rug. You’d better find a way to fix it.”
Trish Bolen
Conway’s family and the crowd stating the board’s thoughts and prayers were with the family following the tragic events
“I am confident that you, as well as everyone within the community, understands and respects that the board does not discuss internal personnel matters in an open forum,” Mekeel said. “It is also our goal to hold our teachers to high standards and appropriate professional interaction with students. When information is brought to the district’s attention, it is our goal to ensure appropriate investigation occurs of all credible concerns. The board does not take such matters lightly, so if you have specific factual information that would assist in any investigation, please provide it to our legal counsel and law enforcement.
“Beyond that, we are unable to comment further as we understand an open law enforcement investigation remains pending.”
At the Aug. 20 meeting, Trish Bolen, told the school board that citizens are watching how the board responds to the tragedy.
“We’re paying attention,” Bolen said. “Where’s your accountability? I’m really disgusted by some of your actions ... sweeping this under the rug. You’d better find a way to fix it.”
VanVickle has said the investigation is ongoing, and Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock said his office would review all materials once the police investigation is complete.
Conway was a 2024 graduate of Polo High School, where he engaged in both athletic and academic pursuits. He had finished his first year as a student at Louisiana State University, where he made the dean’s list.
Gul grew up in Prophetstown and graduated from Prophetstown High School in 2014. He earned a degree in sports management from Rockford University in 2019 and served as clubhouse site director and camp supervisor at the Buffalo Grove Park District.
Shaw Local News Network file photo
Family and friends of Joshua Conway address the Polo school board during the public comment period at the board’s regular meeting June 18 at the Centennial Grade School.
Warranty deeds
• James T Janes and Marilyn A Janes to Peter W Hodapp and Lyndsey Hodapp, 8666 N. Riverview Drive, Byron, $326,000.
• Lakeview Loan Servicing Llc to Marco A Hernandez, 130 S. Sixth St., Rochelle, $59,900.
• Jamoine 3 Llc to Darrel L Stukenberg, 12 parcels in Mt. Morris Township: 08-05-300-006, 08-06-400-001, 08-06-400-002, 08-07-100-004, 08-07-100-006, 08-07-100-012, 08-07-100-014, 08-07-200-002, 08-07-200-003, 08-08-300-002, 08-08-300-007 and 08-17-100-002, $0.
• Sheri L Bossany to Jace T Warkentien and Alyssa J Ealy, 5370 E. Scarlet Oak Lane, Byron, $287,000.
• Michael E Keeton and Alyson R Augustyn to Margaret Hare and Zachary Hare, 5338 E. Aspen Court, Byron, $336,500.
• Adam Herwig and Clifford C Jones to Robert Borgen, 300 Main St., Chana, $64,500.
• Carol A Arnould, trustee, and Carol A Arnould Tr to Czupryna Radoslaw, 1006 Timber Trail Drive, Dixon, $35,000.
• S&c Renovations Llc and S & C Renovations Llc to Jeremy R Buehn and Veronica L York, 4 E. Lincoln St., Mt. Morris, $70,000.
• Donald E Cook and Judith A Cook to Daniel Phillips, 102 S. 2nd Ave., Forreston, $170,000.
• Groenewold Fur And Wool Company to Groenewold Guy G Tr, 9945 N. Hollywood Road, Forreston, $200,000.
• Jason Robert Clark, April Lynn Donegan and April Lynn Clark to Vytautas Rozmanas and Simona Rozmane, 1442 W Indian Heights Dr, Oregon, $235,000.
• Andrew T Baatz and Amber Marie Baatz to Lane Dinges, 900 S 3rd St,
• POLO SCHOOL BOARD
Continued from page 13
Personnel
After the public comment period and following action on other agenda items, the board entered into an executive session (closed to the public) to discuss personnel issues.
Here are the personnel items and the actions taken by the board.
• Accepted the resignation of Margaret Weegens.
• Approval of Brock Soltow as a vol-
Oregon, $150,000.
• Jml Llc to Steven Book and Susan Book, 608 E Hewitt St., Forreston, and 610 E Hewitt St, Forreston, $22,000.
• Donald J Binkley to Jon M Ludwig, 10555 W Grove Rd, Forreston, $110,500.
• Benjamin C Johnson and Jacquelyn C Johnson to Neona Lundgren and Spencer Disimoni, 108 Janet Ave., Rochelle, $186,000.
• Carolyn Myers, trustee, and Larry L Myers Tr99 to Steven B Conner and Sandra M Conner, 1424 Crimson Ridge, Byron, $195,000.
• Manuel Sotelo-Covell and Manuel Sotelo Covell to Melissa Joyner and Matthew Joyner, 311 E South Park Drive, Byron, $155,000.
• Derek E Price to Donna Witkowski, 924 W 8th Ave., Rochelle, $210,000.
• Michael Bailey to Stephen Gibson and Kendra Gibson, 103 Wolf Drive, Dixon, and 105 Wolf Dr, Dixon, $3,800.
• Contry Homes Group Llc to Nathan Dean Haas and Juliana L Haas, 1110 Burlington Way, Davis Junction, $288,545.
• Patricia Braun to Gavin J Meiners and Tracy L Meiners, 316 Knollwood Drive, Dixon, $18,500.
• Erica M Schwoeppe and Erica M Graden to Irene S Saunders, 612 W Mason St, Polo, $127,000.
• Brent Pearson to Karleen B Williams, 111 W Roosevelt St, Stillman Valley, $165,000.
• Judity M Himes to Crimson Tiger Holdings Llc, 215 E 3rd St, Byron, $156,000.
• Hre Builders Llc to Dusten D Pribble and Marisa Katelyn Pribble, 351 Mill Ridge Dr, Byron, $370,900.
• Shawn Shepherd to Michael Elrod and Katrina Koch, 402 W Fulton St, Polo, $163,000.
• David Trudeau and Jessica Trudeau to
unteer football coach.
• Approval of Katie Chesnut as volunteer supervisor for cheer.
• Approval of Keith Chesnut as a volunteer supervisor for athletics.
• Approval of Jalen Bickett as assistant football coach.
• Approval of Mandy Smith as middle school cheerleading coach.
• Approval of Ravin Goral-Day as a permanent substitute.
• Approval of Steve Ackeberg as a substitute bus driver, pending all background and State of Illinois requirements.
Thomas Lovgren, 7048 E Executive Court, Stillman Valley, $400,000.
• Taylor N Carlson and Ryan J Carlson to Timothy R Gronewold and Audra M Gronewold, 405 N Division Ave., Polo, $125,000.
• Carrie L Phillips and Cari L Phillips to Dominique Gonzalez and Erin Guadalupe, 2689 N Lynnville Court, Lindenwood, $220,000.
• Treyton Buh to Samuel Girkin and Kaitlyn Girkin, 108 Hillside Dr, Polo, $154,000.
• Michael Luke Goessman and Kirsten Eva Goessman to Erin Cooper and Paul Cooper, 3075 E. Water Road, Byron, $439,000.
• Gerald Mcintyre and Voirin Enterprises Llc, one parcel in Brookville Township, 06-10-300-002, $13,000.
• Keven J Costello and Melanie J Costello to Joshua Mccleary and Carmen Mccleary, 14704 E Eddy Rd, Davis Junction, $70,000.
Warranty deed in trust
• Dennis Swinton to Jeffrey W Jones, trustee, and Jeffrey W Jone Declaration Tr2013, 212 S. Seventh St, Rochelle, $50,000.
Quit claim deeds
• Chance E Doane to Annie M Bettenhausen and Kastner Construction Inc, 214 Minnesota Dr, Dixon, and 212 Minnesota Dr, Dixon, $0.
• Miguel Garcia Vazquez and Beatris Esparza to Miguel Garcia Vazquez, trustee, Beatris Esparza Lopez, trustee, and Garcia Miguel Lv Tr, 215 Irene Ave., Rochelle, $0.
• Dora W Betz to Dora W Betz and Shirley Zaman, 305 E 2nd St, Leaf River, $0.
• Michael J Stewart to Michael J Stewart, trustee, and Michael James
• Approval of Paul Cavanaugh as a substitute bus driver, pending all background and State of Illinois requirements.
• Approval of Stacey Kellms as a substitute bus driver, pending all background and State of Illinois requirements.
• Approval of Beth Sundman as a paraprofessional.
• Approval of Mallory Patterson as a paraprofessional.
• Approval of a pay increase for Kim Gray.
• Approval of pay increase for Lindy
Stewart Tr, 607 N Luther Dr, Byron, $0.
• Michael J Stewart to Michael J Stewart, trustee, and Michael James Stewart Tr, 6442 N Marrill Rd, Byron, $0.
• Michael J Stewart to Michael J Stewart, trustee, and Michael James Stewart Tr, 322 N Hamer Ct, Byron, $0.
• Michael J Stewart to Michael J Stewart, trustee, and Michael James Stewart Tr, 914 N 7th St, Rochelle, $0.
• Michael J Stewart to Michael J Stewart, trustee, and Michael James Stewart Tr, 212 N Sumner St, Byron, $0.
• Michael J Stewart to Michael J Stewart, trustee, and Michael J Stewart Tr, 224 N Sumner St, Byron, $0.
• Michael J Bossany to Sheri L Bossany, 5370 E Scarlet Oak Ln, Byron, $0.
• Edward Drager to Edward Drager and Lucia Drager, 745 Golden Prairie Dr, Davis Junction, $0.
• Richard D Elliott, trustee, and Richard D Elliott Land Tr to Richard D Elliott, 1030 N 7th St, Rochelle, $0.
Trustees deeds
• Terrill D Janes, trustee, Carole R Janes, trustee, and Terrill D & Carole R Janes Family Tr to Kaytlin Neale and Kaleb Hess, 615 Missouri Dr, Dixon, $196,000.
Deeds in trust
• Jessie S Diduch, Jessie S Bazzell and Dennis A Diduch to Jessie S Diduch, trustee, and Jessie S Lv Diduch Tr, 11638 N. Springfield Road, Baileyville, $0.
• Dennis A Diduch, Jessie S Diduch and Jessie S Bazzell to Dennis A Diduch Jr, trustee, and Dennis A Diduch Lv Tr, 11638 N Springfield Rd, Baileyville, $0.
• Audrey R Kilker to Audrey R Kilker, trustee, and Ark Tr725, three parcels in Forreston Township: 02-21-100-016, 02-21-200-006 and 02-21-200-007, $0.
• Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office
Diehl.
• Approval of Beth Shipman as Special Education teacher for the 2025-26 school year.
• Approval of Deena Simester as a Math Interventionist for 120 days, pending all background checks and State of Illinois Requirements.
• Approval of Kayla Cholke as a paraprofessional.
• Approval of Andrew Weilacher as assistant track coach for middle school.
• Approval of a MOU with Derek McAnally.
• Approval of FMLA for Alec Wetzell.
2025 2025Autumn On Parade Autumn On
A Message from the President
We truly love our small town and come together to celebrate Autumn on Parade in a big way! Our 2025 festival promises a variety of fun-filled family friendly activities for all ages!
As we mark our 54th annual event—organized entirely by a dedicated group of volunteers since its inception—we would like to acknowledge that Autumn on Parade thrives due to the strong community spirit and pride shared among Oregon residents. The efforts of families, friends, neighbors, new and seasoned volunteers, along with the generous financial and in-kind support from local businesses, city and county officials, and our exceptional park district, form the foundation of our success.
Since its creation in 1970, the heart of this event has been our Market. Stroll around downtown Oregon, IL and check out this unique shopping opportunity. Afterwards, pop over to the Fun Zone, where kids of all ages will enjoy the live petting zoo and so much more! By now you’ve worked up an appetite, our Food Court satisfies all tastes! Then, hop aboard our complimentary shuttle for a visit to Stronghold’s Olde English Faire, followed by a trip to Park East, where you can enjoy the car and tractor shows. Return to downtown Oregon just in time to enjoy the toetapping energy of live music at our HotSpot, and then, take a moment to rest and prepare for Day 2 — the unforgettable Harvest Time Parade!
Be sure to show your festival support by purchasing tickets for our 60/40 raffle and…Spend a memorable weekend "Carving Creativity" in Oregon on October 4th and 5th!
Destini Benesh
Festive Events
Market
Fun Zone
The Autumn on Parade Market began over 50 years ago with 7 exhibitors on the historic Courthouse lawn, and has grown to more than 200 booths! We are proud our market hosts only handmade, homegrown, and homemade items. Join us Saturday, October 4th 8a-5p & Sunday, October 5th 9a-5p for blacksmith demonstrations, permanent jewelry, and artist's wares. Longtime favorites will be here too- woodworkers, potters, quilters, sign makers, painters, flowers, candles, and so many more. Find yummy snacks along the way, like roasted nuts, popcorn, cookies, and candies. New and returning exhibitors await you each year. Shop our festival merch at autumnonparade.com & show it off at the market- we’ve even got totes available to carry your new goodies!
Bring the kids to visit Autumn on Parade’s Fun Zone, located at North 5th Street in the municipal parking lot. Open both Saturday and Sunday, this FREE family-friendly space provides a variety of activities for kids of all ages. We are welcoming back some favorites and have some exciting new additions.
This year’s free fun will include: Jason Kollum bubble stations/shows, Miller’s Petting Zoo, Stateline Bounce Houses, Face Painting & Balloon Twisting. Carnival Games & Crafts, Characters 2 Life's Bluey & Stitch. For a detailed schedule, visit autumnonparade.com Items for purchase: Saturday & Sunday Kona Ice | Sunday Only: Fancy Franks, Grindheads Coffee
We are proud to include Fun Zone QUIET HOURS. If your child would benefit from an environment with minimal sounds and crowds, visit us on Sunday 1-3p during the Harvest Time Parade. Autumn on Parade appreciates our community’s understanding of this special time and we look forward to seeing everyone during our open-play times the rest of the weekend.
Join us in Downtown Oregon for an evening of old-fashioned holiday fun!
• Horse Drawn Carriage Rides
• Outdoor Food Vendors
• Sip-N-Shop Gift Fair
• Tree Lighting
• Winter Carnival
• Visit with Santa
• Live Performances
• Giveaways
• Entertainment
• Refreshments
• Shopping
• Hot Cocoa
122 N. 4th St. Oregon, IL 61061
815-732-2100 oregonil.com
• Build-A-Buddy Workshop
• And So Much More!
Sponsored by
Parade
Festive Events (cont.)
The 54th annual AOP Harvest Time Parade, themed "Carving Creativity" will be held on Sunday, October 5th, starting at 1pm! Our parade features hired entertainment as well as local marching bands, scouts, unique acts, local businesses, and so much more. We look forward to seeing spectators of all ages fill the streets!
Unit of Honor: Rock River Center
Guests of Honor: Mark Gale & Kevin Weigmann
Reserve your seat as early as Sunday morning by setting out chairs/blankets along our parade route. To maintain a safe viewing distance, please stay behind the curb during the entirety of the Harvest Time Parade.
Please Note: during the parade there will not be in/out access from any of our handicapped parking lots, and several side streets will be enclosed by the parade route. Refer to the map below to plan accordingly.
Food Court
Bubble waffles, Granita, Tamales… oh, my! - No festival is complete without a food court, and we’ve got something for everyone!
2025 2025 Autumn On Parade Autumn On Parade
Sample a variety of dishes from many different vendors (some new, many returning!), and indulge in some delicious treats at the AOP Food Court!
Angus steak burgers, gyros, Cheesecake on a Stick… From classic comfort food to more unique festival fare, your mouth starts to water as you see all the delicious options - so many that you're sure to find a snack (or three) to satisfy your cravings!
HotSpot
Live music & cold beverages will keep you moving from 1-7pm on Saturday, October 4th
Kicking off our Entertainment HotSpot is Oregon local, Korey Pepper! Korey will have you singing along as he strums hits from 90’s rock, pop, alternative and more.
Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees, Bowman, Pickney, and Evan’s follow with music spanning folk, classic, & country rock - covering favorites from the Eagles, America, & Crosby, Stills and Nash. They’ve even opened for acts like Stevie Ray Vaughn & Cheap Trick!
2025Autumn On Parade Autumn On Parade
Saturday, October 4 :
8a. - 5p... Market (Courthouse Lawn)
8a. - 2:30p... Car Show (Park East)
9a. - 4p...Tractor Show (Park East)
8a. - 5p... Information Booth (Courthouse Square)
9a... Flag Raising Ceremony (Courthouse Square)
9a. - 3p... Library Book Sale (300 Jefferson St)
9a. - 5p... Food Court (Jefferson St)
10a. - 5p... Fun Zone (5th St Municipal Parking Lot)
4p... Tractor Parade (Park East to Downtown Oregon)
10a. - 12p... 102.3 Coyote & SuperHits Live Broadcast (5th & Jefferson Streets)
1 - 7p... **Entertainment HotSpot (300 block Jefferson St)
**Our 2025 Entertainment HotSpot stage will feature tunes by Korey C. Pepper; Bowman, Pickney, & Evans with Matt Finn; and Too Hype Crew!
Sunday, October 5 :
8 - 10:30a... Breakfast (Oregon VFW)
8a. - 5p... Information Booth (Courthouse Square)
8:45a... Flag Raising Ceremony (Courthouse Square)
9a. - 5p... Market (Courthouse Lawn)
9a. - 5p... Food Court (Jefferson St)
9a. - 5p... Stronghold's Olde English Faire (Admission Charge; 1922 Illinois Route 2 North)
10a. - 4p... Fun Zone (5th St Municipal Parking Lot)
1 - 3p... Fun Zone Sensory/Quiet Time
1 - 3p... **Harvest Time Parade (Downtown Oregon)
**Our Harvest Time Parade features more than 100 musical, float, and novelty units!
*print info subject to change; the most current festival info will be reflected on the AOP webiste.
9a. - 5p... Stronghold's Olde English Faire (Admission Charge; 1922 Illinois Route 2 North)
October 4 October 4 & 5 & 5 th th th th
A complimentary shuttle will provide rides from downtown Oregon to Stronghold and to the Car & Tractor Shows on Saturday only.
We Mail Gifts For You!
Over 500 Kinds of Hand-Made Soaps For The Whole Family!
Stop By The Oregon Soap Shoppe on Daysville Road!
• Lip Balm • Glass Art & Kugels
• Free Gift Wrapping
• Great Unique Gift Options
• Bridal Shower Gifts & Wedding Gifts
• And Much More! & GREEN ART ETC.
Tue, Wed, Sat 10-5:30 pm • Thur & Fri 10-7:30 Sun & Mon Closed 91 C South Daysville Rd, Oregon Call Toll Free 866-411-6614 | oregonsoapshoppe.com
OREGON SOAP SHOPPE
Chana Methodist church to celebrate 150 years
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Chana Methodist Church will celebrate its 150th year Sept. 7.
A 10:30 a.m. service will be dedicated to children and their grandparents. There will be a luncheon at noon, historic displays, reminiscing and slide show. At 1:30 p.m., the church will have a service including special music, past ministers and more history about the church. Everyone is welcome.
Chana Methodist Church was built in 1875. At that time the fellowship was already 19 years old. Methodist class meetings were started in 1856 under the leadership of Edwin A. Canfield.
Spiritual needs of the early settlers were also met by the Methodist circuit riders. One of the circuit riders points was the Canfield School located west of Chana. The White Oaks schoolhouse, built about one mile southeast of Chana, was also a point on the circuit.
Eventually the White Oak congregation became large enough to support its own pastor, and it was during the pastorate of the Rev. Z.D. Paddock that the church was built in Chana. The cost was $1,800.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Oregon Depot program Aug. 30 to cover Byron Nuclear Plant
The “Those Were the Days” presentation at the Oregon Depot at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, will feature longtime Oregon resident John Dickson.
He has worked in the nuclear industry for 45 years. Dickson is an analyst at the Exelon Nuclear Power Plant in Byron. His background includes having been a certified welder, a journeyman electrician, an AWS certified weld inspector, a construction site supervisor, a quality control inspector, a pressure vessel inspector and a nuclear maintenance planner.
Dickson will speak about the need for nuclear power and the future of nuclear power, including the meter concept and small modular reactors.
At the time the church was built, it was the last building on Main Street. It was approached by a wooden sidewalk, and the wooden steps led to two entrance doors. The interior of the church was quite elaborate with red carpeting, black horse-hair and walnut pulpit furniture, a pump organ and a marble topped table used for communion.
The church was formally dedicated on Sunday, Sept. 8, 1875, by the Rev. Luke Hitchcock of Chicago.
For many years the Chana Methodist Church was part of a three point circuit that included the churches of Paynes Point, Lighthouse and Chana. Service was held in Lighthouse in the morning, in the afternoon at Chana and evenings at Paynes Point. Later, Lighthouse and Chana became a two point charge.
In the 1890s, the church was remodeled, and a single entry was built. With some later modifications and additions.
The members of the congregation still receive communion at the rail. which was part of the original structure.
Chana United Methodist Church continues to play an active part in the community, and its influence is broadened by those who left the area, but were formerly a part of the generations who built it.
Saturday, November 15th 9am to 3pm Sunday, November 16th 9am to 2pm Contact June (309) 781-2206
Coliseum Museum presents Wild Blue Ukulele Orchestra Sept. 14
Wild Blue Ukulele Orchestra will appear at the Coliseum Museum in Oregon from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, for a concert featuring a full range of ukuleles – from the soprano to the U-Bass.
The fully orchestrated arrangements cover many genres and eras and demonstrate the versatility of the instrument.
Doors open at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $5. Register online at cmaaa.org/events. html or contact 815-595-5810 or info@ cmaaa.org.
The CMAAA mission is to present art, antiques, Americana and history through permanent and rotating exhibits, workshops, music, theater and more.
–JeffHelfrich
SM-ST2263751
Oregon takes on EPC in practice game
Photos by Earleen Hinton
TOP LEFT: Oregon’s Cooper Johnson tries to jump over Eastland-Pearl City’s Brody Simons (0) during a practice game Aug. 22 at Lanark. The Hawks open the 2025 season at Genoa-Kingston on Aug. 29, while EPC hosts Fulton. TOP RIGHT: Oregon’s Cooper Johnson runs with the ball behind Edward Gomez, and Jakob Moser throws a block during a practice game with Eastland-Pearl City. ABOVE: Eastland-Pearl City quarterback Deaken Hofmaster looks to pass during a practice game with Oregon. LEFT: Oregon’s Landon Ziller catches a pass for a gain during the practice game with Eastland-Pearl City.
Erie-Prophetstown
golfers take to the links against Oregon
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Oregon and Erie-Prophetstown squared off on the links Aug. 18 at Silver Ridge Golf Course north of Oregon.
The Oregon boys squad overcame the rain and the E-P Panthers with a score of 178 to 191 on Aug. 18 at Silver Ridge in Oregon.
Nole Campos was the medalist with a 40, Jackson Messenger was runner-up with a 42, and Nelson Benesh of Oregon added a 49 for his new PR.
Oregon’s team scores were Nole Campos, 40; Jackson Messenger, 42; Landon Anderson, 47; Tucker O’Brien, 49; Nelson Benesh, 49; and Matthew Pham, 54.
Unfortunately, not all the girls were able to play a full nine holes before the storm hit, so their scores will not count.
Photos by Earleen Hinton
TOP LEFT: Oregon’s Aniyah Sarver chips out of the rough Aug. 18 against Erie-Prophetstown at Silver Ridge Golf Course north of Oregon. TOP RIGHT: Erie-Prophetstown’s Kenny Gerlach watches his putt during the Aug. 18 match with Oregon High School. ABOVE: Oregon’s Nathaniel Pham waits to putt during the match. LEFT: Erie-Prophetstown’s Izzy Johnston reads the green before putting.
Once a rarity, sport now flourishing in Illinois
By HART PISANI hpisani@shawmedia.com
Wrestling is believed to be one of the oldest sports in history, with traces of its origins going back as far as 20,000 years ago. Girls and women’s wrestling? Well, that’s a little more recent.
Professionally, there has been a recognized women’s world champion going back as far as 1937, when Mildred Burke took the belt. She formed the Women’s World Wrestling Association in the early 1950s, and the sport began to grow in America from there. Japan saw a spread around the same time, with nations such as the UK and Mexico following suit over the decades.
At the high school and college levels, however, it took even longer. The University of Minnesota-Morris was the first school to establish a women’s varsity wrestling program in 1993-94. Thirty-two years later, women’s wrestling will become the 91st championship sport sanctioned by the NCAA next season.
At the prep level, the spread is even more recent, and it’s gone like wildfire. In Iowa, where wrestling reigns over all, girls wrestling wasn’t sanctioned until the 2022-23 season. In Illinois, it’s been sanctioned since 2021-22, becoming the 28th state to do so.
Four years later, 46 states have officially sanctioned girls wrestling, with only Delaware, Mississippi, Virginia and Vermont remaining. It’s a rapid expansion that’s been widely celebrated.
“Seeing the girls evolve and get involved is exciting,” Joliet West assistant coach Tisha Evans said. “Seeing [Joliet West wrestler] Chloe Wong at state was my first experience seeing it at that different level, and it was jaw-dropping to say the least. Seeing how they train and their mindset is eye-opening and refreshing.”
Even the growth in Will County has been rapid. In the first three seasons, Joliet West and Joliet Central had to co-op, while last season saw them flourish individually. Last year, Plainfield Central was able to field enough wrestlers to host duals. The Wildcats and Lockport had state championship wrestlers in Alicia Tucker and Claudia Heeney, respectively.
Evans, also the head coach for Joliet West’s flag football team, has noted the growth not just in girls wrestling, but girls sports in general. That follows a
national trend, with girls flag football expanding in many states, the rise in WNBA and NCAA women’s basketball viewership, the expansion of the NWSL and the success of the PWHL.
It’s not just talk. The numbers reflect that girls high school wrestling is the fastest-growing sport in Illinois. In the 2023-24 season, there were an estimated 2,400 girl wrestlers in the state, more than double the number in its inaugural sanctioned season. Currently, 350 schools have either a girls wrestling team or at least one girl wrestler competing.
“It’s one of the most exciting times that not just girls wrestling has seen but that the sport has seen,” Batavia coach Scott Bayer said. “For a long time, the sport of wrestling cut itself off to 50% of the population, and what we’re seeing right now is it’s catching on at an explosive rate.”
Like with any new venture, there’s room to grow. Last year, there were several programs in the area that went from having girl wrestlers in the 2023-24 season to none in 2024-25. Joliet Catholic fielded one senior wrestler, while Plainfield Central will lose almost half its
team to graduation. Keeping enthusiasm and growth going will lead to continued expansion.
Evans also said she’d like to see more women coaching the sport. Only two schools in Will County had female head wrestling coaches last season.
Plainfield Central head coach Kyle Hildebrand expects things to continue changing in a positive direction with more exposure.
“I’ve been going down to state for the past three years, and I’ve seen the numbers there grow by at least 500 girls if not more,” he said. “We’re seeing growth exponentially. The boys programs have been well established, and we’re starting to see the girls programs reflect that, which is a great thing.”
Hildebrand pointed out that in the beginning, making it to state was more of a given due to the limited number of participants. Now, however, the competition has increased significantly, which has put greater importance on regional and sectional tournaments. His feeling is that increased competition will increase interest and thus increase opportunities for girls.
McHenry senior Natalie Corona, a state qualifier last season, believes the more exposure the sport gets, the more it will spread.
“I think more coverage around girls wrestling would be great,” she said. “Having separate boys and girls teams, I think, would be great because some schools just have girls on boys teams. Having [our] own space would be great, but the amount of progress we’ve made has me excited for the future.”
Again, a century ago, girls and women in wrestling wasn’t even a thought. Now, it’s the fastest-growing sport there is. It didn’t exist in the NCAA until three decades ago, and now there will be championships this winter. Four years ago, it was sanctioned by just more than half the country. Now, it’s sanctioned by 92% of the nation.
Imagine where it’ll be in the coming years.
“We’ve just got to keep going,” Hildebrand said. “Even if numbers start to slow down, we can’t be discouraged. We have to keep getting more female coaches for the girls to relate to, we have to have social media presence, push the good things happening and continue encouraging girls to commit to something bigger than themselves.”
Tiffany Blanchette file photos
Alicia Tucker of Plainfield Central celebrates her 170-pound championship in the IHSA Girls Individual State Finals on March 1.
Lockport’s Claudia Heeney (left) wrestles on her way to victory over Viola Pianetto of Mt. Prospect in the 135-pound state championship match March 1.
WHITESIDE: MORRISON, FULTON, EP
WEDNESDAY
Boys golf
Erie-Prophetstown 176, Rock Falls 187: Gavin Vandyke earned medalist for E-P with a 37. Rock Falls’ Alex Johnson and Lucas Porter each shot a 44 to tie for second.
Girls golf
E-P 202, Rock Island 232: E-P’s Isabella Johnston shot a 43 to earn medalist while Michelle Naftzger (46) was runner-up. Morrison individual Sarah Wetzell shot a 49 to take third.
THURSDAY
Boys golf
Fulton 161, River Ridge 173: Fulton’s Dawson Price and Owen Van Zuiden tied River Ridge’s Sam Rife for medalist with a 37 in the dual win. Jacob Voss also shot a 39 for the Steamers.
OGLE: OREGON, POLO, FORRESTON
MONDAY
Boys golf
Oregon 178, Erie-Prophetstown 191: Nole Campos led Oregon with a 40 and Jackson Messenger shot a 42 in the dual win
at Silver Ridge. Dane Ryan led E-P with a 46.
Girls golf
Oregon’s Aniyah Sarver shoots personal best: The Hawks could not play a full nine holes against E-P before rain halted play, but not before Sarver shot a personal best round of 39. Oregon’s Sarah Eckardt and E-P’s Michelle Naftzger each shot 45s.
TUESDAY
Boys golf
Forreston 161, Byron 177: Forreston’s Kaden Brown shot a 36 to earn medalist at Prairie View. Darin Greenfield (39) also was runner-up for the Cardinals.
WEDNESDAY
Boys golf
Forreston 166, Lena-Winslow/Pearl City 180: Forreston’s Kaden Brown earned medalist with a 38 in the dual win. Kendall Erdmann and Daylen Rahn each shot a 42 for the Cardinals.
Dakota 169, West Carroll 225, Polo 231: Dakota’s Koehn Lawler (39) earned medalist and Brayden Larson (40) was runner-up.
West Carroll’s Thomas Krontz and
OHS Golf Playday fundraiser set for Sept. 21
The Oregon High School boys and girls golf teams are holding their ninth annual Playday fundraiser on Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Silver Ridge Golf Course.
Lunch is included, and there are prizes, hole contests, “Putt for Dough” contest, many raffle bas-
Max Knuth each shot 50s at Silver Ridge. Aidan Messer led Polo with a 53.
Byron 170, Oregon 181: Byron’s Landon Smith and Brady Scheck each shot a 40 to earn medalist at Prairie View. Oregon’s Jackson Messenger was runner-up with a 40.
Girls golf
West Carroll at Polo: Polo’s Elsa Monaco and Grace Monaco tied for medalist with a 58 at Silver Ridge.
Riley Runions led West Carroll with a 59.
Team scores were not kept as neither team has a full squad.
Byron 195, Oregon 225: Oregon’s Sarah Eckardt tied Bryon’s Alayna Brandt for medalist with a 41 at Prairie View.
ATTENTION EXHIBITORS!
kets, as well as the chance to win a hand-made golf quilt and Blackstone grill.
Help raise money for the golf teams by putting together a foursome, buying raffle tickets, sponsoring a hole, or donating a raffle item. Sign up at https://forms.gle/5cbr9Ayf68W58eS6A. Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Du79jHTCo/ – Jeff Helfrich
THURSDAY
Boys golf
Forreston 171, Newman 176: Forreston’s Daylen Rahn earned medalist with a 39 in the dual win.
Darin Greenfield shot a 43 and Kaden Brown shot a 44 for the Cardinals. Jeff Thormeyer led Newman with a 42.
Rockford Lutheran 159, Oregon 179: Nole Campos led Oregon (2-1) with a 41 to take third in the road dual.
Tucker O’Brien also shot a 43 for the Hawks.
Girls golf
Rockford Lutheran 179, Oregon 219: Aniyah Sarver led Oregon (1-1) with a 44 and Sarah Eckardt shot a 47 in the road dual.
Fundraiser for Ogle County K-9 unit is Nov. 1
Proceeds from event will fund dog food, vet bills, training and equipment
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Ogle County K-9 Fund Bark and Whine Ball will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. Nov. 1, at the River’s Edge Experience at 103 S. 1st St. in Oregon. The event will include live music by The Vodka Boys, food catered by Ralfie’s BBQ, a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle.
Only 250 tickets will be sold and they can be bought at the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office, Merlin’s Greenhouse & Flowers and Cork & Tap. All proceeds will go to support the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit, which includes Deputy Kyle White and K-9 Gator and Deputy Ali VanVickle and K-9 Saint. Expenses for the K-9 program include food, veterinary bills, training, equipment and future K-9 acquisitions.
The K-9 unit is supported solely by donations and self-funding and was recently established as a 501c3 nonprofit. After gun raffle fundraisers in recent years, White and VanVickle decided to attempt to fundraise differently with more community engagement. They’ve been organizing the event since April.
“We wanted to fundraise on a bigger scale,” VanVickle said. “We expect it to sell out. We’ve sold about half the tickets already. We’re out in the community a lot and what we’ve learned most from that is that people don’t realize that the K-9 expenses aren’t paid for by the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office. It’s all donated and self-funded to keep these dogs healthy, fed, trained and in equipment. People want to help when they realize that and we’ve seen people wanting to donate.”
The initial cost for a K-9 and its training is about $14,000-$16,000. Most of the dogs come from Europe. Along with food and vet bills, expenses also include training, which is required for 16 hours a month. VanVickle and White estimate they do another 20 hours of training on top of that combined per month. K-9s cost about $5,000-$6,000 per year to maintain.
White has been Gator’s handler for almost two years and VanVickle is approaching one year with Saint. White
We wanted to fundraise on a bigger scale. We expect it to sell out. We’ve sold about half the tickets already. We’re out in the community a lot and what we’ve learned most from that is that people don’t realize that the K-9 expenses aren’t paid for by the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office.
worked with a K-9 during his first military deployment and enjoyed it. Once he got to the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office, he trained with the K-9 handlers and put in for the position later on and got it.
“And then I spent a lot of time watching Kyle work with Gator when I was considering applying for it,” VanVickle said. “My dad was a K-9 handler at the Rochelle Police Department
before he was elected sheriff. I’d been around it for quite a while. That’s why I enjoy it.”
K-9s Saint and Gator are dual-purpose dogs and can track and locate narcotics, and track missing people such as a child, an elderly person or a crumbs suspect. They can search buildings and they are apprehension dogs and are trained to bite when situations call for it. They can locate evidence,
such as items suspects have thrown in a chase situation.
“Lately we’ve put a lot of time in with our dogs and it’s seemed to work out pretty well,” White said. “We’ve used them to serve warrants with the DEA, ATF and U.S. Marshals Service. We help surrounding counties with tasks like tracking people, search warrants and more. The time we put in with our dogs is probably twice as much as surrounding agencies. We enjoy it.”
White said K-9s can serve as a threat deterrent for suspects, which keeps deputies safer. He’s responded with Gator to serious calls where kids have been distraught and has gotten the dog out to help kids emotionally. White said he finds satisfaction in situations like that and when the K-9 can be used to successfully locate a missing child or elderly person.
Community outreach is a use for the K-9s that White and VanVickle have found to be beneficial. They do K-9 demos at events and take them to visit schools. At those gatherings, kids get to know the dogs and their handlers and learn about law enforcement.
“Community outreach is the best part,” VanVickle said. “We have kids talking to us all the time. I can’t tell you how many kids have said they want to be a K-9 handler when they’re older. Starting with those kids at a young age, it really engrains a sense of safety and something that they may want to do later in life. I think the dogs make us more approachable to the community. Because who doesn’t love a dog? Our dogs are docile enough that they can be loved on. But when it’s time to work, it’s time to work. And they can differentiate that, which is very important.”
Photo provided by Ali VanVickle
Shown is Ogle County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Kyle White and K-9 Gator, and Deputy Ali VanVickle and K-9 Saint. The Ogle County K9 Fund Bark and Whine Ball will take place 5-10 p.m. Nov. 1 at the River’s Edge Experience at 103 S. 1st St. in Oregon.
Ali VanVickle, Ogle County Sheriff’s deputy
Full-time positions:
HS Guidance Office Secretary Maintenance Worker
Special Education
HS 2nd Shift Custodian
Part-Time position:
HS Kitchen worker - 3 hpd
IL FARMLAND AUCTION
CALENDAR NOTICE OF SHE RIFF'S SALE PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that purs uant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the abov e entitled cause the Sheriff of Ogle County will on September 19, 2025, at the hour 10:00 a.m. in the Sheriff's office, 202 S 1st Street, Oregon, IL 61061, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following desc ribed mor tgaged real estate: P.I .N. 02-33-129-008. Commonly known as 104 S. 1ST AVE., FORRESTON, IL 61030.
The real estat e is : single family residence If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common inter est community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Secti on 18.5 of the Condominium Prope rty Act. Sale terms: At sale, the bidder must have 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection Prospecti ve bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information
For informati on call Sales Department at Plaintiff's Attorney, Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 13010 Morris Road, Suite 450, Alpharetta, Georgia 30004. (708) 668-4410 ext. 52109. 24 -199336 SHERIFF I3271209 Forrest on Journal August 15, 22, 29, 2025
2022 CHEVY BLAZER LT AWD
Worries.™
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGL E COUNTY, ILLINOIS
In the interest of: Kaine Matlock, a minor Case No: 2025 JA 3 NOTICE BY PUBLICATION
To: Kristin Matlock, respondent (s), and any and all unknown fathers, including Corey Wiegert, take notice that on May 27, 2025, a petition was filed under the Juvenile Court Act by ASA Richard Russo, in the Circuit Court of Ogle County entitled “In the interest of Kaine Matlock, a minor”, and that in courtroom 202 at 106 South Fifth, Oregon, Illinois on September 9, 2025 at 10:30 a.m or as soon thereafte r as this cause may be heard, an adjudicatory hearing will be held upon the Petition to have the child declared to be a ward of the court and for other relief under that act. The court has authority in this proceeding to take from you the custody and guardianship of the minor. If the Petition requests the termination of your parental rights and the appointment of a guardian with power to consent to adoption, you may lose all parental rights to the child Unless you appear you will not be entitled to further writte n notices or publ ication noti ces of the proceedings in this case, including the filing of an amended petition for a moti on to terminate parental rights. Unless you appear at the heari ng and show cause against the petition, the allegations of the petition may stand admitted as against you and each of you, and an order for judgment entered Dated this 6 day of August, 2025
Kimberly A. Stahl Clerk of the Circuit Court By: JLG, Deput y Clerk
August 15, 22, 29, 2025
each of you, and an order for judgment entered
Dated this 6 day of August, 2025
Kimberly A. Stahl Clerk of the Circuit Court By: JLG, Deput y Clerk
August 15, 22, 29, 2025
STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE PROBATE DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: LYLE D. SWANSON, Deceased CASE NO. 2025-PR-37 CLAIM NOTICE
NOTICE is given of the death of Lyle D. Swanson. Letters of Office as Independent Administrator were issued on June 23, 2025, to Way ne McMinn of 8532 65th St., Princeton, MN 55371, and the attorney for the Estate is Mary J. Gaziano, One Court Place, Suite 200, Rockford, Illinois, 61101.
Claims against the estate may be filed on or before February 15, 2026, that date being at least six (6) months from the date of first publication, or wi thin three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing or del ivery is required by Section 5/18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 1975, as amended, wh ichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above shall be barred.
Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Ogle C ounty Circuit Clerk Probate Division at the Ogl e County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street Suite 300, Oregon, Illinois, or wi th the estat e legal representative, or both. When a claim is filed wi th the representative but not with the Court, the representative may file the claim with the Court but has no duty to do so.
Copies of claims filed with the Circuit Clerk's Office-Probate Division, must be mailed or delivered to the estate legal representative and his attorney within ten (10) days after said claim has been filed.
DATED: August 8, 2025
filed with the Circuit Clerk's Office-Probate Division, must be mailed or delivered to the estate legal representative and his attorney within ten (10) days after said claim has been filed.
DATED: August 8, 2025
Mary J. Gaz iano, Attorney for the Es tate
Attorney Mary J. Gaziano - ARDC #6184225
One Court Place, Suite 200 Rockford, Ill inois 61101 (815) 962-6800
E-Mail:MJGaziano @aol.com
Attorney for the Estate Aug.15, 22, 29, 2025
WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C.
Attorneys for Estate
202 E. 5 th Street
P.O. Box 400 Sterling, IL 61081 P: 815.625.8200 olson@wmpj.com
August 29, Sept. 5, 12, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS
Notice is given of the death of RENEE J FELTS. Letters of Office were issued to TANYA M. HARROLLE, 1256 Glacier Dr., Byron, IL 61010, as Representative, wh ose attorneys are WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C., 202 E 5th Street, Sterling, Illinois 61081. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061, or with the Representative, or both, on or before March 6, 2026, and any claim not filed wi thin that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: August 21, 2025
Tanya M. Harrolle, Representative Ryan M. Olson ARDC 6333161 WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C.
Attorneys for Estate 202 E. 5 th Street P.O. Box 400 Sterling, IL 61081 P: 815.625.8200 olson@wmpj.com
August 29, Sept. 5, 12, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: BERNADINE T. MACK, deceased NO. 2025-PR-51 CLAIM NOTICE NOTICE IS GIVEN of the death of BERNADINE T. MACK of Oregon, Illinois. L etters of office were issued on August 18, 2025, to STILLMAN BANCCORP N.A , 8492 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, whose attorney is David A Smith, of Smith Law Group, P.C. at 129 South Fourth Street, P. O. Box 10, Oregon, Illinois, 61061-0010.
CLAIMS against the esta te may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court at Ogle County Judicial Center, 106 South 5th Street, Or egon, Illinois, 61061, or wi th the representative, or both, wi thin 6 months from the first publication of this Notice, or within three months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing or del ivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probat e Act, 1975, as amended, wh ichever date is later Any claim not filed with in that period is barred. Copies of claims filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the estate legal representative and to the attorney within 10 days after the claim has been filed.
Joseph McCoy, Senior Trust Officer Stillman BancCorp N.A., Independent Executor August 29, Sept. 5, 12, 2025
Advertise your job openings here! Email: classified@ shawlo cal.com or call: 815-526-4645
PUBLIC NOTICE
Sealed bids will be received for the following section by the Ogle County Highway Department, Oregon, Illinois, until 2:00 P.M. September 5, 2025: 2025-2026 Ice Abrasives.
Proposals are available on the Ogle County Highway Department website and in person at 1989 South IL Rte. 2, Oregon, IL between the hours of 7:00 A.M and 3:30 P.M Monday - Friday. The Road and Bridge Committee reserves the right to accept or reject and or all bids.
August 22 & 29, 2025
White Pi nes Lodge
Mt. Morris, IL RE QUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Notice is hereby given that White Pines Lodge is accepting proposals for Grease Trap Cleaning Servi ces and Kitchen Hood Cleaning Services Work shall include complete pumping, waste removal, cleaning, and d isposal of grease traps, and cleaning of exhaust hoods, ducts, and fans in compliance wi th all applicable regulations. All vendors must be properly licensed and insured. Proposals shall include recommended service frequency based on industry standards.
Proposals are du e no later than September 12, 2025 and must be submitted electronically to: Abby Farrell, Operations Manager
zon Wireless) proposes to collocate wi reless communications antennas at an overall top height of 88.2-feet on a 90-foot building rooftop at the approx vicinity of 1133 N 7th St., Rochelle, Ogle County, IL 61068.
Public comments regarding potential effect s from this site on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: Trileaf Corp , Amanda Minetti, a.minetti @trileaf com, 1821 Walden Square Suite 500, Schaumburg, I L 60173, (630) 2270202 ext. 534.
August 29, 2025
Publication Notice
Public Notice is hereby given that on July 21, 2025, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County Clerk's Office setting forth the names and post office address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as: Nature's Message 8686 Yellowstone Drive Byron, IL 61010 Dated July 21, 2025.
s/Laura J. Cook Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk Aug. 15, 22, 29, 2025
Publication Notice
Public Notice is hereby given that on August 13, 2025, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County Clerk's Office setting forth the names and post office address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as: Truck '61 11282 N. Leaf River Rd., P.O. Box 4 Leaf River, IL 61047
Dated: August 13, 2025.
s/Laura J. Cook
Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk Aug. 29, Sep. 5, 12, 2025
FOR OREGON PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT O F THE COUNTY OF OGLE, STATE OF ILLINOIS FOR THE FISCA L YEAR
BEGINNING JULY 1, 2025 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2026
BE IT ORDAINED, that the Oregon Public Library District of the County of Ogle, State of Illinois shall levy a tax of .02% of the value of all taxable property within said District, for building and maintenance purposes, subject to the right of the elect ors in said District to petition and require an election concerning the imposition of such tax, pursuant to 75 ILCS 16/35-5.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, tha t wi thin fifteen (15 ) days from the date of adoption of the ordinance, it shall be published in a newspa per of general circulation in the Oregon Public Library District and it is effective immediately upon adoption IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have here under set our hands in Oregon, Illinois this 21st day of August 2025.
1. The specific number of voters required to sign a petition requesting that the question of adoption of the ordinance be submitted to the electors of the Dis trict is 431.
2. The petition must be filed on or before September 28, 2025.
3. The referendum would be held March 17, 2026.
Secret ary of the Board of Trustees of Oregon Public Library District c/o Oregon Public Library District 300 Jefferson Street Oregon, IL 61061 August 29, 2025
Email: afarrell@ goexplorus.com Site visits may be scheduled by email reques t. August 29, 2025 We have advertising solutions to fit your need s! Call us today!
Public Notice
Cellco Partnership and its controlled affiliate s doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) proposes to collocate wi reless communications antennas at an overall top height of 88.2-feet on a 90-foot building rooftop at the approx vicinity of 1133 N 7th St., Rochelle, Ogle County, IL 61068. Public comments
PUBLIC NOTICE OF ORDINANCE NO. 2025-4
AN ORDINANCE TO LEVY AND ASSESS A TAX FOR OREGON PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT O F THE COUNTY OF OGLE, STATE OF ILLINOIS FOR THE FISCA L YEAR
BEGINNING JULY 1, 2025 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 BE IT ORDAINED, that the Oregon
ORDINANCE 25-02
ANNUAL BUDGET AND APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING THE 1ST DAY OF JULY, 2025 AND E NDING THE 30TH DAY OF JUNE 2026
WHEREAS, The Board of Trustees of the Creston-Dement Public Library District, in the County of Ogle, in the State of Illinois, has prepared a tentative form of the Annual Budget and Appropri ation for said Public Library District for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026. The tentative Budget and Appropriations Ordinance has been available for public inspection for at least thirty (30) days prior t o our final action; and WHEREAS, a pub lic hearing was held as to such Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance on August 19, 2025. Notice of the hearing was provided at least thirty (30) days prior to the hearing by publishing notice of the hearing in a newspaper of general circulati on in the Creston-Dement Public Library District; and WHEREAS, all other legal requirements have been complied with by the Board of Trustees of Creston-Dement Pub lic Library District; NOW, THEREFORE , BE IT ORDAINED BY THE PRESID ENT AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE CRESTON-DEMENT PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT, IN THE COUNTY OF OGLE, STATE OF ILLINOIS, AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1: That th e followiro sums, or so much as by law may be authorized, are budgeted and appropriated for the specified Librar y Purposes for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026. The purposes and amounts of the appropriations are as follows:
FOR CORPORATE PURPOSES [75 ILCS 16/35-51:
1. For payroll
2. For professional serv ices
3. For books and mate rials
4. For contrac tual services
5. For rent
6. For telecommunicati ons
7. For utilities
8. For Board/Staff Development
9. For publicity/public relations
10. For dues and memberships
11. For printing and postage
12. For programming
13. For operat ing supplies
14. For technology
15. For miscella neous expenses/contingencies
TOTAL:
Ogle County Newspapers
833-584-NEWS
$85,000.00
$2,400.00
$18,000.00
$9,900.00
$6,100.00
$2,400.00
$6,600.00
$1,000.00
$1,100.00
$6,000.00
$500.00
$5,000.00
$2,500.00
$3,000.00
$5,800.00
$155,300.00
FOR SOCIAL SECURITY FUND PURPOSES [40 ILCS 5/21-110; 21-110.11:
1 Social Security & Medicar e
$8,000.00 TOTAL
FOR LIABIL ITY, WORKERS' COMPENSATIO N AND UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE, [745 ILCS 10/9-107):
$8,000.00
1. Insur ance (including public liability; property damage (fire); workers' compensation; unemployment compensati on & treasurer's bond)
$5,600.00
2. Legal Fees
3. Risk Management/Loss Control program $30,000.00
4. Contingency
TOTAL $43,825.00
FOR BUILDING MAINTENANCE FUND: [75 ILCS 16/35-5]:
1. Building Maintenance Costs
2. Contingency $1,600.00 TOTAL $75,600.00
$500.00
$71725.00
$14,000.00
FOR THE PURPOSE OF A WORKING C ASH FUND [75 ILCS 16/35-35):
1. For Working Cash Fund
TOTAL
FOR SPECIAL RESERVE FUND [75 ILCS 16/40- 50]:
1. Special Res erve Fund Plan
2. Contingency $25.00 TOTAL
$55250.00
$55,250.00
$350.00
$375.00
Section 2: Appropri ated for th e foregoing expenses from the fol lowing estimate of District in the fiscal year: revenues, by source, anticipated to be received by the Library
Projected cash on hand Ju ly 1, 2025
Special Reserve Fund
From Working Cash Fund
Self-Insurance Reserve Fund
Miscellaneous gifts and donations
Income of interest
Special purpose grants
Photocopy, cards, fax, and miscellaneous
Tax for General Corporate Li brary purposes
Tax for Social Security purposes
Tax for Liability and Insurance
Tax for Maintenance purpos es
Expected cash on hand June 30, 2026
$11,800.00
$375.00
$55,250.00
$2,000.00
$10,000.00
$5,000.00
$5,500.00
$5,000.00
$118,000.00
$8,000.00
$41,825.00
$15,600.00
$0
Section 3: Any unexpended balances in the General Library Fund, and Maintenance Fund appropriations will be deposited into the Special Reserve Fund pursuant to a pl an in accordance with Article 40 of Chapter 75, Illinois Compiled Statutes.
Section 4: The Secretary of the Creston-Dement Public Library District is hereb y authorized and directed to have t his Ordinance published at least once in a n ewspaper of general circulation within this library district.
Section 5: This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage, appr oval and publication as provided by law.
Passed by the Board of Trus tees of the Creston-Dement Public Library District and approved by the President thereof this 19th day of August, 2025.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF CRESTON-DEMENT PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT By: Doug Kroupa, Its President ATTEST: Ashley Newlun, Secretary August 29, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF Ogle - Oregon, ILLINOIS U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff vs. DANIEL J STEELE II; TAYLOR M FOX; ILLINOIS H OUSI NG DEVELOPMEN T AUTH ORITY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CL AIMANTS Defendant
24 FC 27 CALENDAR NOTICE OF SHE RIFF'S SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that purs uant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the abov e entitled cause the Sheriff of Ogle County will on September 19, 2025, at the hour 10:00 a.m. in the Sheriff's office, 202 S 1st Street, Oregon, IL 61061, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: LOT THREE (3) IN BLOCK ONE (1) IN THE ORIGINAL TOWN OF FORRESTON, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT ACKNOWLEDGED BY GEORGE W HEWITT; SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF FORRESTON, COUNTY OF OGL E AND STATE OF ILLINOIS. P.I.N. 02- 33-129-008. Commonly known as 104 S. 1ST AVE., FORRESTON, IL 61030.
The real estat e is : single family residence If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common inter est community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Secti on 18.5 of the Condominium Prope rty Act. Sale terms: At sale, the bidder must have 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection Prospecti ve bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information
For informati on call Sales Department at Plaintiff's Attorney, Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 13010 Morris Road, Suite 450, Alpharetta, Georgia 30004. (708) 668-4410 ext. 52109. 24 -199336 SHERIFF
I3271209 Forrest on Journal August 15, 22, 29, 2025
ORDINANCE 26-02
ANNUAL BUDGET AND APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE FOR THE FI SCAL YEAR BEGINNING THE 15T DAY OF JULY, 2026 AND ENDING THE 30TH DAY OF JUNE 2027
WHEREAS, The Board of Trustees of the Polo Public Library District, of the County of Ogle, State of Illi nois, has prepared or caused to be prep ared a tentative form of the Annual Budget and Appropriation for s aid Public Library District for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027 and the same has been conv eniently available for public inspecti on for at least thirty (30) days prior to final action thereon; and WHEREAS, a public hearing was held as to such Annual Budget and Appr opriation Ordinance on August. 12, 2025, notice of which was given at least thirt y (30 ) days prior thereto by publishing notice thereof in a newspaper of general circulation in the Polo Public Library District; and WHEREAS, all other legal requirements have been duly complied with by the Boar d of Trus tees of the Polo Public Library District; NOW , THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE P RESIDENT AND BOAR D OF TRUSTEES OF THE POLO PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT, IN THE COUNTY OF OGLE, STATE OF ILLINOIS, AS FOLLOWS: Section 1: That th e following sums, or so much thereof as by law may be au thorized, be and the same are hereby budget ed, set aside and appropriated for the specified Library Purposes for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027; and the objec ts and purposes for which said appropriations are mad e, and the amounts thereby appropriated are as follows; to-wit:
FOR CORPORATE PURPOSES [75 ILCS 16/35-5]:
$173,100.00
SOCIAL SECURITY FUND PURPOSES [40 ILCS 5/21-110; 21-110.1]:
1. Social Security (FICA/Medicare) Taxes
9,550.00 FOR ILLINOIS MUNICIPAL RETIREMENT FUND [40 ILCS 5/7-105; 7-171]; 1. Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund
Section 4: Any unexpended balances in the General Library Fund, and Maintenance Fund appropriations will be deposited into the Special Reserv e Fund pursuant to a plan in accordance with Article 40 of Chapter 75, Illinois Compiled Statutes Section 5: The Secretary of the Polo Public Library District is hereb y authorized and directed to have this Ordinance published at least once in a newspaper of general circulation within this library district. Sec tion 6: This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect following its passage, approval and publication as provided by law. Passed by the Board of Trustees of the Polo Public Library District and approved by the Presid ent thereof this 12th day of August, 2025 by recorded vote:
AYES : N. Blum, D. Baumann, T. Nelson, M Brooks
NAYS : None
ABSENT: K. Jones, B. Sundman
ABSTAINING: None
BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF POLO PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT By: Abbigail McWilliams , Abbigail McWilliams, Acting President (VP)
ATTEST: Donna Baumann, Donna Baumann, Secretary
Au gust 29, 2025
WE CANCELTIMESHARES
Many people think they’re stuck with their timeshare forever— but that’s often not the case. Wesley Financial Group has helped more than 50,000 families break free from unwanted timeshares, and we may be able to help you, too. If you were misled, pressured, or deceived during your purchase, you could qualify for cancellation.
How Does the Cancellation Process
Start with a FREE consultation to tell us your story.
If we determine your case qualifies, you’ll be paired with a specialist to guide you through the process.
Our Resolution Department works diligently to cancel your timeshare and help stop related maintenance fees—permanently.
Thousands of timeshare owners have already found relief through our proven process. You could be just one phone call away from peace of mind. Our dedicated team is ready to help.
debt and fees associated with it.”
- Chuck McDowell Founder & CEO
“Wesley Financial was awesome to work with. They were profession and very understanding of the situation we were in. Thank you all so much. This has been a huge burden and you all helped relieve that burden. Thank you.”
