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Oregon cross country runners start their race at the Class 1A Winnebago Regional on Oct. 25 at the Levi and Ester Fuller Memorial Forest Preserve.
The following events are happening at the Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center:
At 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, The Center will present an Illinois Extension webinar titled “Bullying Among Older Adults.” This presentation is free.
The Center Health Fiesta will be Friday, Nov. 7, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come in for flu shots, health information, giveaways, raffles and tacos for a donation.
The library on Wednesday, Dec. 3, is
Accuracy is important to the Mt. Morris Times. Please call errors to our attention by email at news@oglecountynews.com.
hosting a trip to the Metropolis Performing Arts Center in Arlington Heights to see “Home for the Holidays: An Evening with Levi Kreis.” The bus leaves at 10 a.m. and returns at 6 p.m. Cost is $85 per person. Call The Center at 815-734-6335 to sign up.
–Shaw Local News Network
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By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Village of Progress held its annual banquet on Wednesday, Oct. 22, at St. Mary’s Parish Center in Oregon. Eight VOP consumers and volunteers were presented with awards during the festivities.
VOP is in its 56th year of serving people in Ogle County with developmental disabilities through evaluation and assessment, job training, supported employment, social and recreational experiences, health care and maintenance and living skills instruction.
The event was emceed by Tom Wadsworth, who presented the first award of the evening to Daniel Norris, the recipient of the John Herrmann Personal Achievement Award. Norris has participated in VOP programs for 15 years.
“Through lots of hard work and becoming more familiar with the Village and its people, his attitude has steadily improved and he’s come a long way learning to adjust to the challenges in his routine,” Wadsworth said. “Daniel likes to work and is open to new jobs. He’s very thorough and precise. And he enjoys a variety of Village trips and athletic events.”
Sue Croft was the recipient of the Robert Moehle Personal Achievement Award. Croft has been part of the VOP family since 1969 when it first opened its doors.
“Though she is one of our most senior participants, she is very young at heart,” Wadsworth said. “In her last 56 years, Sue has embraced new experiences with courage and joy.”
The Janie Etnyre Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Kristy Eckardt, who has volunteered with VOP for the past two years and also serves on its board of directors. She helps with VOP lunches and its bike club, and assisted with creating a point of sale system for use at the Village Corner snack shop.
“This is a huge honor,” Eckardt said. “I get so much out of volunteering at the Village. I wish I could be there 24/7. I
really thank everyone. I plan to continue doing it forever.”
The Fred Smith Competitive Employment Award was given to Jeremy Reynolds, who has been part of VOP since 2013. Reynolds has worked many jobs through VOP over the years including office cleaning and at Crest Foods.
“Jeremy is a hard worker and is known as the ‘go-to guy’ when work shifts need to be filled,” Wadsworth said. “He is quick to learn new jobs, which makes him valuable whenever there is a need for more hands on deck.”
The Carly Heller Special Olympian of the Year Award was presented to Rachel Brooks, who has been involved with VOP and Special Olympics since 2009, with events including bocce ball, tennis, floor
hockey and bowling.
“Rachel is a great athlete to have on the Village’s Special Olympics teams,” Wadsworth said. “This is not just because she’s athletically gifted, but also because she is willing to play or try any sport.”
Sherri Drew received the Robert Stahl Friendship Award. Drew began attending VOP programming in 2002.
“Sherri was chosen for this award because she has a gift for connection, whether she’s shaking hands, showing off her fun socks, or simply being near others, she makes people feel welcome,” Wadsworth said.
The Coach Cookie Warren Memorial Award was presented to Tim Koebler, who has participated in all Special Olympics sports that have been offered at VOP
over the past 55 years.
“When Tim participates in a sport, he always shows great excitement and loves giving and receiving high-fives,” Wadsworth said. “Tim is a wonderful example of a lifelong sports enthusiast whose dedication to his teams stands strong.”
The Herrmann family was the recipient of the Robert Stauffer Special Recognition Award. Family members have continued a long family legacy of support for the VOP through serving on its board, supporting programming, and interacting with Village consumers.
“We’re very honored,” Brett Herrmann said. “We’re happy to continue my grandfather’s legacy. We absolutely love volunteering at the Village and will con-
to do so.”
By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent
A Rockford man’s argument that he entered a Rochelle townhome to “rescue” a “loved one” who worked as an online escort did not sway Ogle County jurors Wednesday, Oct. 22, from convicting him of home invasion, armed robbery and being an armed habitual criminal.
Mark A. Cooper, 48, of Rockford, was charged with invading the townhome of a Rochelle couple in the 100 block of Seventh Avenue shortly after 6 p.m. Feb. 21. Cooper chose to represent himself during the trial as well as previous court hearings, declining numerous offers by Associate Judge Anthony Peska to have an Ogle County public defender represent him.
On Tuesday, Oct. 21, Assistant State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten told jurors that Cooper “knowingly entered” the home with a handgun and struck the husband numerous times before taking the 64-year-old man’s cellphone and wallet.
The husband testified that he opened the door to his home after a woman, estimated to be in her 30s, knocked on the front door asking to use his phone.
“She said her car had broken down and her cellphone was dead, and [she] wanted to borrow our phone,” the man said. “I thought it would be the right thing to help someone out.”
The man said he and his wife became suspicious after the woman tried three phone numbers unsuccessfully and then asked him to Google area codes in California.
“My wife told her it was time for her to leave,” the man said.
But when the door was opened for her to exit the home, the man said a Black man wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt entered with a handgun.
“He had a gun in his hand, and he was
believe she wanted to get my phone. I kept her from getting the phone.”
She said she locked the bedroom door when the woman left the bedroom and tried dialing 911 but was too shaken to complete the call.
She said her husband then came upstairs and called 911 after the man and woman left.
“Do you think her coming to your home had something to do with your husband?” Cooper said.
“No,” the woman replied.
Cooper is Black, but neither witness identified him as the intruder. In his cross-examination of the witnesses, Cooper referred to the Black man as himself.
holding it in the air,” the homeowner testified. “I grabbed his wrist so he could not point it in my direction.”
He said his wife ran upstairs, and the woman chased after her. He said he and the man fought and ended up in the kitchen.
“He was hitting me with the pistol,” the man testified. “He kept demanding my wallet. I did not want to give it up.”
The man said he tried offering the man $20, the cash he had in his wallet, but turned over the entire wallet because he was “physically exhausted from fighting.”
He said the man who beat him and the woman both left the home, and he called 911.
Leisten introduced videos from security cameras outside the home as evidence. The homeowner said security cameras were installed because of drug activity in the neighborhood. In those videos, a woman could be heard screaming after the man wearing a hooded sweatshirt entered the home.
Leisten also showed photos of the homeowner’s injuries, which included lacerations to his head. Some of the crime scene photos also showed drops of blood on the kitchen floor.
On cross-examination, Cooper asked the homeowner why he opened the door to his home when he didn’t know the woman.
“Your phone pinged with an image.
Why did you open the door?” Cooper said. “Didn’t it seem odd that she came to your door at 6 p.m. when there were other apartments? Doesn’t it seem odd that she picked your apartment?”
“I don’t know why our house was chosen,” the man replied.
Cooper then accused the man of contacting the woman through an escort service and giving her that address.
“I did not know this woman before that evening,” the man testified, denying that he had ever used an escort service and saying that he did not know the woman “before she came to my door.”
Cooper, during his cross-examination of the witness, said he entered the home to help the woman, who he called Linsey, because she was an online escort who had been given the address. Cooper said he did not have a gun when he entered the home and entered the home because Linsey was screaming.
“The only person screaming was my wife,” the homeowner replied. “I know you had a gun when you walked in the door.”
On Wednesday morning, the man’s wife testified that a Black man entered the home and pointed a gun at her and her husband. She said she started screaming and ran upstairs to the main bedroom with her phone, and the woman chased her upstairs, where they fought.
“We were wrestling with each other,” the 65-year-old woman testified. “I
Rochelle Police Sgt. Elvis Baneski said officers did not know who had entered the home until tips were received after the department asked for information about the incident in a Facebook post in March. That post included screenshots from home-security videos of the man and woman entering and exiting the home.
Baneski said the department received an anonymous tip identifying the man as Cooper and the woman as Linsey Blitch. Baneski said he also received another phone call from someone – identified as a tipster – who wanted to meet at the Rockford Police Department.
That meeting was with Cooper and Blitch, who identified themselves as being the individuals in the Facebook post, Baneski said.
In a recorded video of the interview with Cooper, he claimed the incident was not a robbery but a “date” that turned violent.
“[The homeowner] was trying to manhandle [Blitch],” Cooper said in the interview. “I’m her protection. She had seen him before. I don’t know him.”
Cooper told police that the homeowner had the gun, and they fought when Cooper tried to take it away from him. Cooper said he then took two phones and left with Blitch.
“I didn’t rob anybody,” Cooper said in the interview. “This guy had an agenda. He was trying to overpower her.”
Cooper said he took the gun and phone, and later sold the gun to someone in Rockford.
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Ogle County Board on Oct. 21 unanimously denied a special-use permit for a community solar energy facility in Marion Township, but it approved a special-use permit for a similar facility in Leaf River Township by an 11-10 vote.
The denied special-use permit was for the construction and operation of a 4.99-megawatt solar field on 33 acres in the 8000 block of North Kishwaukee Road on agriculturally zoned land. Marion Township voted against the solar permit, along with the county’s Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning and Zoning Committee.
“This does not meet our comprehensive plan for Ogle County, nor for Marion Township,” board Vice Chairwoman Pat Nordman said.
The approved special-use permit was for the construction and operation of a 3.5-megawatt community solar energy facility on 25 acres in the 8000 block of North Pecatonica Road on agriculturally zoned land. That project was unanimously approved at the County
Born: August 5, 1927 in Freeport, IL
Died: October 25, 2025 in Baileyville, IL
Alice Brattrud, 98, of Baileyville, passed away Saturday, October 25, 2025, in her home. Alice was born in Freeport, Illinois, on August 5, 1927. She was the daughter of Elmer and Josephine (Clancy) Love. She was a graduate of Freeport High School and Highland Community College. Alice and Craig Brattrud were married May 18, 1947. Craig passed away May 16, 2008. Alice and Craig farmed the family farm near Baileyville. Alice enjoyed reading, knitting, growing flowers and spending time with her children, grandkids, and great grandkids. Alice was a member of the Baileyville Reformed Church for more than 75 years. Alice
Board’s lower levels.
Voting against the Leaf River Township solar facility were board members Skip Kenney, Jackie Ramsey, Ryan Reeverts, Dan Miller, Aaron Mudge, Rick Fritz, Lyle Hopkins, Brian Daws, Steve Huber and Joseph Simms.
“I will be voting no on this,” Kenney said. “I understand the significance behind this and the work that went into putting it together. What I don’t understand is why Springfield puts its nose into our business, along with the other 101 counties in our state. Springfield has taken all of the [solar siting] authority away from us.”
The meeting saw attendance from many county residents against solar developments, with a small handful holding up signs. In August, the board voted unanimously to deny two special-use permits for solar energy developments in Scott and Marion townships.
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.
At its June meeting, the board denied
formerly served as a Sunday School Teacher, Church Secretary, and was a member of the Thimble Club and Ladies Aid. Alice was a charter member of the Missionaries Circle of the Church.
Surviving is one daughter, Jacquelyn (Steve) Tipton of Shannon; three sons, Ronald (Marcia) Brattrud of Iron River, MI., Randall (Karen) Brattrud of Baileyville, and Andrew (Barbara) Brattrud of Hunter, AR.; twelve grandchildren, Angela (Wayne) Knight, Stephanie (Tim) Sorn, Amy Brattrud, Joy Brattrud, Dawn Brattrud, Shane Tipton, Shelly (Curtis) Morgan, Trent Tipton, Leigh (Sarah) Tipton, James (Annie) Brattrud, Jesse (Becki) Brattrud, Spring (Rob) Tompkins, and many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
Alice was preceded in death by her husband, Craig; parents, three brothers, three sisters, and grandson, Barry Brattrud.
Per Alice’s wishes. Private family services will be held.
Send obituary information to saukobits@shawlocal.com. Notices are accepted until 2 p.m. Tuesday for the next edition. MORE OBITUARIES on page 6
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.
In December 2024, 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 recent new law that set statewide standards for wind and solar farm siting and took away previous local control.
Board member Don Griffin said progress on a new roof on the historic Ogle County Courthouse has begun. The project is expected to be completed by the end of December. Sterling Commercial Roofing was the low bidder for the project at $813,125, with a $30,000 general contingency allowance.
The board voted unanimously to approve a proclamation in honor of the
50th anniversary of Focus House, which will be celebrated with an event Nov. 14 at Luna in Rochelle. Attendees and speakers will include past and present directors, teachers and board members, and the event will showcase what has happened at the county-owned facility over 50 years. The Ogle County treatment facility just north of Rochelle provides a continuum of services for at-risk youths including residential, counseling, education and alternative programming.
The board unanimously approved a resolution to submit an advisory referendum to the voters of Ogle County regarding the federal scholarship tax credit.
The federal scholarship tax credit offers up to $1,700 for individuals who donate to scholarship-granting organizations. If Illinois opts in, scholarship funds could be used by students in both public and private schools for a multitude of educational services, including tutoring additional educational classes, and books.
The referendum will be voted on during the March 17 general primary election.
Betty Obendorf
Pam came north to spend the day and we headed to the Pines for breakfast. We began to notice the changing leaves and the beautiful colors of fall.
The Pines was very pretty and I was glad she had invited me for a drive through the park. Two men were trout fishing and they were not from around here. The last time I had seen anyone in the water was when two young men were swimming even though the signs say, “No Swimming.” I am not certain how successful the fishermen were, but we could see the trout swimming in the shallow part.
After a delicious breakfast, we drove to a lovely spot over the railroad where Pam took pictures of the changing leaves and the tracks. I remember the days when I always carried my camera with me, but now everyone just uses their phone. How times have changed.
We came back to Polo and we visited the antique shop and made some purchases. Pam was pleased with what she found and I found a tin just right for putting some of my toffee in as a gift. Hard to believe that it is almost time to start making toffee for the holidays.
During the week I finished cutting off some of my flowers around my patio and I am glad I did because it is now a bit chilly for me to be out. Now all I need to do is bring in some of my plants that come in and I am set for cooler weather. That time is fast approaching.
Saturday the museum was busy again and once more we had a troop of Boy Scouts visit. They had visited several years ago and decided Saturday morning would be a better time to see things on the inside instead of setting up camp at the Pines. I enjoyed showing them the museum and Aplington House.
They added many comments to historical things and that made me feel they are getting good training in their program. They also were very helpful in getting my walker up and down the steps at Aplington House. Someday we will have a handicapped ramp in back. By afternoon Caroline had arrived from Terre Haute, Indiana, and we were ready to help her with some of her research. Kevin and Mike have been moving things around and bringing things down from the Dr. Burns House. We are bringing the big newspaper books to the museum so they will be in a better controlled system. They also need to be in metal.
Also in that same room that held all those newspaper books is a beautiful antique reading desk/table for use with the big newspaper books. I always wanted to bring it down to the museum because it is a lovely piece of furniture. Kevin also wants to bring it down. So we will some way incorporate it into the museum.
We are working to keep the museum interesting. Stop by to see what we are doing.
• Betty Obendorf is a retired teacher and volunteer for the Polo Historical Society.
Born: May 15, 1934 in Dixon, IL
Died: October 12, 2025 in Mount Prospect, IL
Susan Mackay Larsen, long-time resident of Mount Prospect, IL, passed away at the age of 91 at home on Sunday October 12, 2025, surrounded by family members. She was born May 15, 1934, to George Mackay and Elizabeth Robinson in Dixon, IL. Susan grew up and attended high school in Oregon, IL. She then went on to attend Lake Forest College in Lake Forest, IL where she obtained her bachelor’s degree. Susan met her husband, Harold Larsen, in Chicago and they enjoyed a long life together.
Susan was the loving mother to Christopher (Dawn) Larsen, doting grandmother to Joseph Larsen, and beloved wife to Harold Larsen. She was the older sister of Stephen (Susan) Mackay.
Susan had an exciting and varied work history including Gabrielson Insurance, UOP, Schenker, Jasman, All-in-Line Stables, Channel Distribution, and AM Air Service. Susan was very blessed to have a truly special relationship with numerous co-workers and friends that she met throughout her life, which she and they both considered second family’s.
Born: April 22, 1953
Died: July 19, 2025
POLO, IL – Edward Allen Lawson, 72, of Polo, IL, died Saturday, July 19, 2025. Ed was born in Chicago, IL, on April 22, 1953, to parents John “Ted” and Natalie “Lee” Lawson. Ed spent his youth at the White Pines Deer Park, where he returned as an adult in 1988 to reopen the beloved park with his father, sister, and brother. Ed spent his life making and fixing things –first as a CNC operator at Woods Equipment, then as a licensed A&P mechanic at Rockwell International in Tulsa, OK. After he moved back to Illinois to reopen the deer park, he returned to Woods and worked again as a CNC operator and then in Maintenance; while also fixing whatever was broken at the deer park or at home. He most recently worked as the maintenance technician at Countryside Apartments. Ed enjoyed making traditional English longbows and completing home improvement projects. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending time with his family, and traveling. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth
Her devoted friend Maureen “Mickey” Pitt was her long-time side kick in their thrift store adventures which they both loved doing together. Susan was an avid reader who enjoyed reading in her favorite chair, or on the front porch if the weather was right. Susan was an animal lover who had many cats and dogs throughout her life that she adored who provided great companionship to her.
Susan is survived by her son Christopher (Dawn) Larsen, grandson Joseph Larsen, niece Shawn (Christine) Mackay and nephew Stephen A. (April) Mackay. She is preceded in death by her husband, Harold Larsen, mother, Elizabeth Robinson, father, George Mackay, brother, Stephen D. Mackay, and niece, Sinden Mackay.
Memorial service to be held on Monday, October 27, 2025
Matz Funeral Home
410 E. Rand Road
Mt. Prospect, IL 60056 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Burial service to be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025
Daysville Cemetery
2737 S. Daysville Road Oregon, IL 61061 11:00 am
(Schnulle) Lawson of Polo; daughter, Rebecca Lawson of Oregon, IL; son, John (Mary) Lawson of San Diego, CA; granddaughter, Samantha Lawson of Iron River, MI; his father, Ted (Jeanette) Lawson of Oregon; sisters, Linda Lawson Sheely of Oregon and Bonnie (Tim) Inskeep of Dunnellon, FL; and his brother, Larry (Pari) Lawson of Rockford, IL.
Uncle Eddie will also be deeply missed by his nieces and nephews, Ann (Scott) Miller, Myrl (Sandra) Johnson, Katy (Brent) Boubelik, Lauren and Peter Lawson, Hannah and Harrison Miller, Brayden and Caleb Sutton, Logan Johnson, Julianna Bigham, and Oaklynn, Easton, and Mabel Miller. He will also be remembered and missed by his extended family, many friends, and acquaintances.
Ed was preceded in death by his mother, Natalie (Newburgh) Lawson; brother-in-law, Roger Sheely; and nephew, Matthew Herbig. A celebration of Ed’s life will take place on Saturday November 8, 2025 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the Blackhawk Baptist Camp, 4491 W Henry Road, Oregon, IL 61061.
A memorial fund has been established with First Baptist Church, Dixon, IL.
Send obituary information to saukobits@shawlocal.com. Notices are accepted until 2 p.m. Tuesday for the next edition.
Continued from page 4
Cooper asked only one question of Baneski – if what he described in the video as a gun could have been two cellphones.
“No, it’s consistent with a handgun,” Baneski said.
The interview with Blitch was not played during the trial nor entered as evidence. There is an outstanding arrest warrant for Blitch, who also is charged in connection with the case.
Leisten then rested the state’s case. Cooper chose not to call any defense witnesses or to testify himself.
“Do you want to testify?” Peska again asked Cooper, to which he replied “no.”
“Do you wish to evoke your right to remain silent?” Peska said.
“Yes,” Cooper replied.
In his closing argument, Leisten said Cooper had targeted the couple’s
home, sending Blitch to the door, and that the husband “naively” let her into their home.
“All he was trying to do was help her,” Leisten said. “When she was told to leave, the defendant barged in with a gun. He’s not there to be a bodyguard. He has no reason to be outside like that unless to commit a crime. [Cooper and Blitch] were acting in concert.”
In his closing argument to the jury, Cooper said he realized his attire in the home security videos “looked suspicious,” but he claimed it was cold that night and he was holding a hand warmer, not a gun.
“This was not a home invasion or robbery,” Cooper said. “I don’t deny I hit him. I had no reason for a gun.”
Cooper characterized the neighborhood as being “rundown.”
“There was no reason for her to be knocking on his door. He was expecting her,” Cooper said. “I know I look the part, but this was not a home invasion. I did not go there to rob
Oct. 20-24, 2025
Warranty Deeds
• Randy J. Barton and Jerrie J. Barton to Vincent Pekarek and Brittany Pearson, 8 N Highland Court, Stillman Valley, $225,000
• Richard Hicks and Stacey Hicks to Christopher Woods and Roger Woods, 209 Roy Ave., Rochelle, $257,500
• Samantha Jo Bradley to Colten Varilek, 2001 N Silverthorn Drive, Byron, $250,000
• Richard L. Speiden and Sherry K. Speiden to Sherry K. Speiden Trustee, Richard L. Speiden Trustee, Speiden Rev Living Tr., 1623 Southfield Lane, Byron, $0.00
• Richard P. Herrmann, and Beverly J. Herrmann to Shane Erdman, 312 W. Willis Ave., Rochelle, $218,000
• Hunter R. Gray and Brittanie R. Gray to Jacob Parola, 303 S. Prairie Ave., Polo, $265,000
• R. Brad Long to Justin Broitzman, one parcel in Buffalo Township: 14-09-355-003, $10,000
• T&r Property Management II Llc to Scott Brown, 370 W. Lightsville Road, Leaf River, $75,000
• Ernest M. Lindgren Trustee, Ruth C. Lindgren Trustee, Ernest M. Lindgren, and Lindgren Rev Lv Tr. To Hunter R. Gray and Brittanie R. Gray, 10245 W. Penn Corner Rd, Polo, $360,000
• Mattie E. Detweiler to Pamela J. Oleson, 15812 W. Robin Rd, Polo, $176,000
• Friends Of Nachusa Grasslands to Nature Conservancy, two parcels in Taylor Township, $84,000
these people. This was a rescue.”
Cooper accused the couple of concocting the home invasion as a “cover-up” of the incident.
“Look at the evidence,” he told the jury. “I beg you, don’t be set on my appearance. Look deeper into the situation. That’s all I can ask.”
Leisten disagreed, adding that Cooper’s version of the events that night “evolves constantly.”
“This was not a date ‘gone bad,’ ” Leisten said. “This was a home invasion and armed robbery. [Cooper and Blitch] didn’t wait around for the Rochelle police. They needed a couple of weeks to come up with a story that doesn’t make sense.”
The jury consisting of six men and six women agreed, coming back with guilty verdicts on all charges after deliberating for about two hours and 15 minutes at the Ogle County Judicial Center in Oregon.
Peska ordered a presentencing report for Cooper and set his sentencing hearing for 1:30 p.m. Dec. 9.
Arellano to host veterans’ appreciation program and expo
State Sen. Li Arellano Jr., R-Dixon, is inviting veterans and their families from across the 37th District to join him for a special event honoring their service and dedication.
“We want our veterans to know how much they’re valued,” Arellano said. “This event gives us the opportunity to say thank you in person and learn more about the incredible people who have served our country from right here in our district.”
The Veterans Appreciation Program and Expo will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 3, at the Rock Falls Community Building, 601 W. 10th St. Attendees can connect with representatives from veterans’ organizations and local agencies and enjoy free refreshments. Those interested in attending can email moldenettel@sgop.ilga.gov to RSVP.
–ShawLocalNewsNetwork
• Timothy J. Gleason to James B. Cappel and Caroline L. Cappel, 924 Carrie Ave., Rochelle, $134,000
• Thelma M. Bell to Mark Capps, 1133 N. 7th St., Unit 806, Rochelle, $119,000
• Jeffery M. Byerly and Laura B. Byerly to Jeffery J. Whaley and Katrina N. Whaley, 9310 E Valley Rd, Stillman Valley, $396,000
• Km’s Properties & Investments Llc and Jose Manuel Reveles Murro to Jeremy Mote, 431 E 2nd St., Byron, $212,500
• Martin J. Decrane and Tracey R. Decrane to Amber Kay Frye, 504 S. Green Ave., Polo, $30,000
• Troy A. Vandenbroek to Vandenbroek Investments Llc, 309 W Center St., Mt. Morris, and 5965 N Esther Dr, Byron, $0.00
• Allan H. Gravenstein to Allan H. Gravenstein Trustee and Allan H. Gravenstein Trustee, 6185 N Brookville Rd, Forreston, $0.00
• Trisha, Blassage to George Blassage, 6070 N Knoll Rd, Monroe Center, $0.00
• Martha P. Gonzalez to Emilia D. Lopez, 128 E. North St., Creston, $0.00
• Wade S. Terviel to Anthony Dinges and Richelle Dinges, 7040 Crestview Rd., Stillman Valley, $0.00
• Manitoqua Ministries Inc. to Kings Camp Llc., 9634 E Lindenwood Rd, Chana, $100
• Youssi Investments Llc to Youssi Real Estate & Development Inc 401k Profit Sharing Tr, Yredi Roth 401k, and Yredi Roth 401k, two parcels in Marion Township:
05-26-330-003 and 05-26-330-005, $0.00
• Youssi Real Estate & Development Inc 401k Profit Sharing Tr, Yredi Roth 401k, and Yredi Roth 401k to Youssi Investments Llc, two parcels in Marion Township: 05-26327-002 and 05-26-328-001, $0.00
Trustees Deeds
• Roger F. Kelly Trustee, and Joan Kelly Rev Tr. To Roger F. Kelly Trustee and Roger F. Kelly Rev Tr., three parcels in Grand Detour Township: 21-14-276-007, 21-14277-003, and 21-14-277-004, $0.00
• Arlene H. Grub Trustee and Ahg Tr314 to Tim M. Devres, one parcel in Marion Township: 05-26-400-019, $24,000
• Roger F. Kelly Trustee and Roger F. Kelly Rev Tr to Roger F. Kelly, three parcels in Grand Detour Township: 21-14-276-007, 21-14-277-003, and 21-14-277-004, $0.00
• Chicago Title Land Trust Company Trustee, South Holland Trust And Savings Bank Trustee, Tr10062,Chicago Title Land Trust Company Tr10062, Mb Financial Bank Tr10062, South Holland Trust And Savings Bank Tr10062, North Star Trust Company Trustee, Mb Financial Bank Trustee, and North Star Trust Company Tr10062 to Kings Camp Llc, three parcels in Whiterock Township: 18-07-200-002, 18-07-200-003, and 18-07-400-001, $649,900
• Shirley M. Gentry Trustee and Shirley M Rev Tr. To Paul S. Mitchell and Nancy G. Mitchell, 513 E. Buffalo St., Polo, $60,000
• Daniel W. Montague Trustee, Douglas E. Montague Trustee, and Darlene A.
Montague Trustee to Julie Hodgson, 7649 W Anterier Rd, Dixon, $336,000
Deeds in Trust
• Mary R. Devries and Todd M. Devries to Arlene H. Grubb and Ahg Tr314, one parcel in Marion Township: 05-26-403-007, $20,000
• David A. Head and Patricia Head to David A. Head Trustee, Patricia Head Trustee and Dph Tr825, 208 S. 5th St., Oregon, $0.00
• Jan B. Emmons to Jan B. Emmons and Emmons Family Tr825, 1 Parcel: 03-05-31106-008, $0.00
• Timothy A. Dayton to Timothy A. Dayton Trustee and Timothy A. Dayton Trustee, three parcels in Flagg Township: 24-04300-005, 24-04-300-008, and 24-17-400031, $0.00
• Gregory Folkers and Mary Jo Folkers to Gregory J. Folkers Trustee, Mary Jo Folkers Trustee, and Fokers Family Rev Tr1, 422 Sunbeam Court, Stillman Valley, $0.00
• Edward M. Tyne and Kay F. Tyne to Edward M. Tyne Lv Tr, Edward M. Tyne Trustee, Kay F. Tyne Trustee, and Kay F. Tyne Lv Tr., three parcels in Eagle Point Township: 13-14-200-001, 14-12-200-006 and 14-13-200-001; two parcels in Buffalo Township: 13-14-100-002 and 14-13-400001; and three parcels in Pine Creek Township: 15-07-100-002, 15-18-100-001 and 15-18-100-002, $0.00
Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office
SALES
ANTIQUE S & COLLE CTIB
Antique Farm Bell with yoke, cradle & dap per Appraised to be between: 1866-1872
Blymeyer, Norton and Co. Cincinnati, Ohio , 15 inch diameter, no chips or cracks $850 If inter ested leave a message at 815-994-0700
2 BR house for re nt between Polo & Mt Mo rris. Polo schools. 1 car garag e. $550/ mo + $550 deposit References, referrals. No pets. Avail Nov 15 815-291 -208 4
Advertise your job openings here! Email: classified@ shawlo cal.com or call: 815-526-4645 Ogle County Classifieds 833-584-NEWS
Picture it D
Print & Online
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF Ogle - Oreg on , ILLINOIS U.S. BANK NAT IONAL AS SOCI ATION Plaintiff vs DANIEL J. STE EL E II; TAYLO R M. FOX; IL LINOIS HOUSING DE VE LOPMENT AUTHORITY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendant 24 FC 27 CALENDAR
NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause the Sheriff of Ogle County will on December 5, 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 mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 02-33-129-008. Commonly known as 104 S 1ST AVE., FORRESTON, IL 61030.
The real estate is: single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a c ommon inter est community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 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 Prospective 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 I3275368 Forreston Journal Oct. 3, Nov. 7, 14, 2025
Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025 at 11: 00 AM
Sale to be held at: Charles D. Bertolet Foundation 103 W 2nd St Leaf River, IL 61047
For complete listing of survey, sale bill, maps, tax info, and ter ms & conditions, etc visit www.lenn ybrysonauction eer .com
For Information Contact: Ow ner, Vaida Yelinek Es tate Lenn y Brys on - Auction eer Kenneth Lingbeck, Executor Ph: 815-946-4120 Attorn ey, Dave Smith Ph: 815-732-6124
VILLAGE GREEN - MT MORRIS Barbara St., Mt. Morris, IL 61054 815-234-2620
VillageGreenMtMorris@ppmil.com "We are accepting applications" 1-Bedroom Apartments Includes: Washer / Dryer , A/C, Garbage & Sewer and Community Room 24 hr. Emergency Maintenance
VILLA GE GREEN - GENOA Railroad Ave, Genoa, IL 60135 815-234-2620
VillageGreenGenoa@ppmil.com
"We are accepting applications" 1-Bedroom Apartments Includes: Washer / Dryer , A/C, Garbage & Sewer and Community Room
VILL AGE GR EEN - BYRON Blanchard Ct., Byron, IL 61010 815-234-2620
VillageGreenByron@ppmil.com
"We are accepting applications" 1-Bedroom Apartments
Includes: Washer / Dryer , A/C, Garbage & Sewer and Community Room
24 hr. Emergency Maintenance 62 years of age or older, or disabled regardless of age Rental assistance available Extremely lo w income persons are enco
Chevy 1500 Crew Cab 4x4 Z71 RST 35K Miles, Gray ........................................$43,900* 2023 Chevy Colorado 4x4 Z71 Crew Cab 5K Miles, White ........................................$40,900* 2023 Chevy 1500 Crew Cab LT 4x4 Z71 33K Miles, Maroon .....................................$38,900*
4x4 44K Miles, Blue .............................................$42,900*
2021 Chevy Traverse Premier AWD 74K Miles, White ...................................................$28,900*
2020 Chevy 2500 Crew Cab LTZ 4x4 Z71 Gas 71K Miles, Silver ..............................$45,900*
CIRCUIT
COUNTY OF Ogle - Oreg on , ILLINOIS U.S. BANK NAT IONAL AS SOCI ATION
Plaintiff vs DANIEL J. STE EL E II; TAYLO R M. FOX; IL LINOIS HOUSING DE VE LOPMENT AUTHORITY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS
Defendant 24 FC 27
CALENDAR
NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause the Sheriff of Ogle County will on December 5, 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 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 OGLE AND STATE OF ILLINOIS P.I.N. 02-33-129-008.
Commonly known as 104 S 1ST AVE., FORRESTON, IL 61030.
The real estate is: single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a c ommon inter est community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 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 Prospective 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
I3275368 Forreston Journal Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 2025
ILLINOIS STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION School Business Services 217-785-8779
ANNUAL STATEMENT OF AFFAIRS FISCAL YEAR ENDING June 30, 2025
SCHOOL DISTRICT/JOINT AGREEMENT
NAME: Polo Community Unit School District #222 DISTRICT TYPE RCDT NUMBER: 47-071-2220-26-0000 Elementary
ADDRESS: 100 S. Union Avenue High School COUNTY: Ogle, Lee, Whiteside Unit X NAME OF NEWSPAPER WHERE PUBLISHED: Tri- County Press Joint Agreement
ASSURANCE
The Annual Statement of Affairs has been posted on the district's website and published in accordance with Section 10-17 of the School Code no later than December 1. (Put "X" in blue box if yes.) Yes X
SIZE OF DISTRICT IN SQUARE MILES 116 NUMBER OF ATTENDANCE CENTERS 3
NUMBER
The ASA must be posted on the school district’s website and published in a newspaper of general circulation no later than December 1, 2025. Refer to Section 10-17 and Section 10-20.44 of the School Code.
Data previously included in the Annual Statement of Affairs can be found at:
Payments to certified personnel Posted on district website per 105 ILCS 5/10-20.47
Student Counts Included in district’s report card
Financial Data Included in district’s Annual Financial Report posted on ISBE’s Cerberus Server
SALARY SCHEDULE OF GROSS PAYMENTS FOR NON-CERTIFICATED PERSONNEL
Salary Range: Less Than $39.999; Bardell, Clifford L; Bardell, Thomas E; Bawinkel, Holly Anne; Bialek, Nancy A; Blake, Connie; Blum, Natalie G; Bowers, Shannon; Bowlin, Angela C; Byrd, Allison Louise; Call, Jonathan L; Cantwell, Connie J; Cavanaugh, Kurt E; Chesnut, Katie L; Chesnut, Keith S; Clapper, Mya L; Clothier, Calvin D; Cole, Gina L; Cole, James R; Corcoran, Christina Marie; Culbertson, Benjamin J B; Deets, Janice L; Ditzler, Emily Kathleen; Dodson, Lora Lynn; Downey, Mark S; Eubanks, Connor D; Faivre, Benjamin; Frey, Melissa A; Fulton-Stebbins, Inga C; Galor, Lori L; Gaulrapp, Laura B; German, David; Gonzalez, Elizabeth; Gorzny, Joshua Amos; Gray, Kimberly M; Grobe, Jason J; Herndon, Anna Louise; Hill, Drew Douglas; Hillison, D. Sue; Holland, Paul R; Hollewell, Katie L; Hopkins, Susan M; Johnstone, Candy A; Jones,
4imprint, Inc. 2,506.76; Aep Energy 10,716.91; Airgas Usa Llc 4,208.71; Alpha Controls & Services, Llc 22,856.74; Alston, Edwin J 10,479.69; Amazon 36,119.87; American Funds Service Co 41,370.00; Apple Inc. 3,621.00; AstroVen 5,121.48; Bergstrom, Isabella 3,400.00; Bill Doran Company 3,915.28; Blue Cross/Blue Shield 495,339.75; Bray Associates Architects Inc. 6,000.00; Breedlove Sporting Goods 32,914.57; Cardmember Service (Elan) 71,787.07; Casey`S Business Mastercard 6,187.36; Cash 6,860.00; Cdw Government, Inc 33,864.26; Cgh Medical Center 5,696.00; Cimino’s 3,353.70; City Of Polo 29,245.86; Comed (Constellation New Energy) 93,027.81; Correct Electric, Inc 19,897.12; Culbertson, Benjamin J B 3,111.20; Delta Dental Of Il-Risk 23,506.27; Dixon Napa Auto Parts 3,903.41; Doors Inc. 2,806.91; Dubuque Fire Equipment 2,642.80; Eastland Cusd 308 5,380.00; Elliott Graphix 7,650.00; Employers Compensation Ins Co 17,990.00; Farmtek 4,900.26; First State Bank (D) 27,343.80; First State Bank -Federal 538,785.77; First State Bank -Fica 183,290.92; Follett Software, Llc 2,692.38; Ford, David 3,005.00; Forrestville Valley Sd 18,834.58; Fort Dearborn Life 9,485.71; Four Seasons Fundraising 4,321.50; Frontline Technologies Group Llc 2,788.48; Gjonola, Nick 6,600.00; Gordon Food Service 141,633.29; Grainger 3,114.89; Great Western Supply
Annette Teresa; Jones, Kelsi Elizabeth; Krogman, Karlie Ann; Krogman-Grobe, Katie Marissa; Lampe, Katherine A; Maginnis, Mark; Mandrell, Kelly Dawn; Mathis, Robbie D; Meinert, Emily Ellen; Mercer, Daniel P; Merdian, Joseph David; Merdian, Tyler Zachary; Messer, Matthew V; Miatke, Erich; Millard, Taylor Kay; Miller, Andrew J; Miller, Betty J; Morgan, Wendy L; Morse, Jeanie; Mumford, Michael; Nelson, Sarah U; Nielsen, Susan; Peterson, Elizabeth Krista Marie; Prebula, Kendra A; Quaco, Billie Jo; Reid, Kathy J; Rhodes, Samantha; Robieson, Heather Lee; Rozanas, Jody L; Sands, Jeffrey B; Schmidt, Amy M; Scholl, Matt I; Scott, Kathryn Louise Michelle; Seible, Rhiannon; Shambaugh, Isabella Katelyn; Sheats, Kathleen A; Shipman, Elizabeth A; Soltow, Brenda Clare; Stanley, Leanna Mari; Steer, Monique Michelle; Straw, Caroline K; Stroh,
37,899.35; Green River Lines 6,400.00; Grp Mechanical Co., Inc 726,258.62; Headon’s 6,693.00; Howard Industries, Inc 14,700.50; Illinois Association Of School Boa 8,018.00; Illinois Department Of Employmen 6,272.00; Illinois Dept. Revenue 223,810.74; Illinois Municipal Retir. 118,933.08; Imagine Learning Llc 6,245.00; Imprest Fund P.c.u.d. 44,989.49; Integra Business Sys, Inc 16,067.11; Internal Revenue Service 11,110.90; Ixl Learning, Inc ~ Teachers Pay Te 5,276.25; Johnson Oil Company 8,133.07; Josten’s 5,652.17; Kaleel`S Clothing & Printing 17,460.00; Ken Nelson 3,658.78; Kone Inc. 3,357.80; Krueger International, Inc 9,389.32; Kuffel, Scott D 3,871.74; Leading Edge Fundraising 5,022.85; Learnwell 8,859.01; Lee/Ogle/Whiteside Roe 47 10,959.09; Legacy Prints 3,408.94; Liberty Mutual Insurance 134,340.00; Mandrell, Kelly Dawn 3,228.67; Marco Technologies, Llc 3,976.54; Meinert, Emily Ellen 6,855.79; Meinert, Sean 2,827.32; Menard`S ~ Sterling 12,336.36; Midwest Transit Equipment 4,609.61; Model 1 Commercial Vehicles, Inc. 94,165.00; Ncs Pearson, Inc 7,687.00; Nicor 27,021.57; North End Auto & Tire 7,589.66; Northern Illinois University 8,475.00; Nothing Bundt Cakes 4,450.00; Nwea 6,364.00; Ogle Co.educ.coop 742,438.11; Open Up Resources 3,292.75; Pepsi Cola Of Rockford 9,026.32; Philadelphia Insurance Company 3,572.00;
Katrinna M; Sundman, Beth B; Terry, Drew R; Tirado, Michelle A; Velez, Tracey L; Waller, Paige Kathryn; Webster, Sheila L; Weilacher, Andrew; Wells, Christan L; Wells, Randi L; Wetzell, Alec M; White, Nathan D; Whitehead, Kathryn Marie; Wiegmann, Beth A; Wiersema, Lisa; Wiersema, Mark A; Wilhelms, Erin Elizabeth; Wolber, Meredith Marie; Wolfley, Kimberly S; Yucus, Christopher E; Zeigler, Alissa S; Zuck, Mercedes N, Salary Range: $40,000 - $54,999; Rhodes, Brenda K; Setchell, Nina Sue; Wakenight, Shari A; Wolfley, Robert A; Young, Andria Lyn, Salary Range: $55,000-$74,999; Elms, Edward J; Zollinger, Christine Renee, Salary Range: $75,000 & Over; Moen, Keenan A
Play Illinois Park & Playground So 51,846.72; Polo C.u.s.d.#222 19,305.49; Polo Cooperative Assn. 28,809.49; Polo Fresh Food Market 2,783.55; Polo School Foundation 10,000.00; Poole Farms 3,780.00; Prairie Farms Rockford 29,382.25; Precision Sports Training Llc 3,275.00; Project Wayfinder, Inc 7,500.00; Renaissance Learning Inc. 16,218.06; Riddell All American Sports 11,815.31; Rockford Steam Boiler Wks 2,855.00; Rogers Athletic Co. 3,677.00; Rrca Accounts Management, Inc 3,060.11; School Specialty Inc. 4,228.60; Schultz, Stephanie K 5,971.27; Selmis 2,515.25; Sherwin Williams 3,016.31; Stalker Sports Floors 6,050.00; Sterling Business Machine 5,921.57; Sterling C.u.s. Dist. #5 38,967.00; Stratus Network, Inc. 19,065.30; Sweetwater Sound, Llc 8,118.62; Symmetry Energy Solutions 50,407.60; Syndeo Networks, Inc 8,150.64; Sysco Baraboo Llc 19,036.36; Teacher Retirement System 344,903.04; Teachers` Health 59,820.77; The Blind Man, Inc 45,136.28; The Hartford 42,072.00; Tri-Merit, Llc 12,000.00; Trs Nc 3percent 22,100.05; Umb Bank 668,832.14; Vista Learning, Nfp 2,693.25; Voya Institutional Trust Company 19,239.96; Vsp Of Il, Nfp 4,475.67; Ward Murray Pace & Johnson 6,223.75; Wetzell, Alec 4,546.25; White Pines Lodge Llc 2,686.85; Wipfli Llp 31,660.00; Witkowski, Natalya 2,900.00; Zeigler, Gage 3,900.00
PAYMENTS TO PERSON, FIRM, OR CORPORATION OF $1,000 TO $2,500 EXCLUDING WAGES AND SALARIES
3 Guys & A Bus Inc 2,200.00; Aaa Certified Confidential Securit 1,138.50; Ace Hardware And Outdoor Cente 1,001.82; Ackeberg, Myah 1,900.00; Act Education Corp 2,244.00; Aed Professionals 2,072.00; Agparts Worldwide, Inc 1,048.50; Albano, Alex 1,000.00; Anne`S Landscape Sup Inc 1,439.60; Avanti Foods 1,083.19; Bawinkel, Holly Anne 1,267.65; Birkey’s Farm Store, Inc 2,232.13; Blain Supply 1,465.81; Bsn 1,219.72; Bushue Background Screening 1,036.00; Cardio Partners, Inc 1,283.88; College Board 1,564.35; Comcast 1,882.03; Compliace Signs 1,578.84; Conserv Fs, Inc 2,217.33; Correct Monitoring Services 1,800.00; Country Investors 1,200.00; Danekas, Aylivia 1,750.00; Demco 2,128.84; Edmentum 1,200.00; Embrace Education 1,985.21; Ffa Greenhouse Bank 2,000.00; Firm Systems 1,488.50; Flinn
Scientific Inc. 1,051.77; Flowers, Jordan 1,000.00; Fp Mailing Solutions 2,318.00; Frontier Bag, Inc 1,969.00; Gray Excavating, Inc 1,650.88; H & H Custom Designs, Inc. 1,731.85; Hinckley Springs 1,094.27; Hudl 2,250.00; Ihsa 2,443.22; Jostens Neff 1,455.77; Journeyed.Com, Inc; 2,157.09; K&T Greenhouse, Robert Gaulrapp 1,531.20; Krogman-Grobe, Katie Marissa 1,901.13; Livengood Charter 2,150.00; Mckenna`S Floor Coverings 1,386.78; Messer, Matthew V 1,182.24; Moore Tires 1,614.77; Mo-St Plumbing & Mechanical, Llc 1,260.00; National Ffa Organization 1,942.00; National Mississippi River Museum 1,360.00; Nelson Fire Protection 2,146.60; New Documents & Labels, Inc. 1,126.00; Nickels And Dimes Inc 2,090.00; Pest Control Consultants 2,037.75; Pinney Printing Company 1,304.94; Prairie Cat
1,061.50; Quality Ready Mix Concrete Co. 1,232.50; Rahn, Sydney 1,026.25; River Ridge High School 1,028.00; Rock Falls High School 2,500.00; Rock River Service Co. 1,647.50; Route 72 Conference 1,684.00; Sanders, Julie S 1,249.13; Sands, Jeffrey B 1,004.39; Sauk Valley Community College 1,950.00; Sauk Valley Community College 2,250.00; Shell 1,700.00; Silver Ridge Golf Course 1,050.00; Skyward 1,880.79; Soltow, Brock 1,000.00; Summit Financial Resources, L.p. 1,175.68; Teaching Strategies Llc 1,620.00; United Way Of Lee & Ogle County 1,275.14; Wells, Christan L 1,229.43; Wells, Elleanna 1,000.00; Wilkins, Cheyenna 1,400.00; Wyatt, Zoie 1,000.00
REPORT ON CONTRACTS EXCEEDING $25,000 AWARDED DURING FY2025
In conformity with sub-section (c) of Section 10-20.44 of the School Code [105 ILCS 5/10-20.44], the following information is required to be submitted in conjunction with publication of the Annual Statement of Affairs [105 ILCS 5/10-17].
1. Total number of all contracts awarded by the school district: 2
2. Total value of all contracts awarded: $191,633.00
3. Total number of contracts awarded to minority owned businesses, female owned businesses, businesses owned by persons with disabilities, and locally owned businesses:
*If there are no contracts of this nature, please enter “0” in box to the right.
4. Total value of contracts awarded to minority owned businesses, female owned businesses, businesses owned by person with disabilities, and locally owned businesses:
*If there are no contracts of this nature, please enter “0” in box to the right. $0.00
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGL E COUNTY, IL LINOIS
In the interest of: Charles Wallace III, a minor Case No: 2020 JA 2 NOTICE BY PUBL ICATION
To: Any and all unknown fathers, respondents, and to all whom it may concern, take notice that on July 8, 2025, a petition was filed under the Juvenile Court Act by ASA R Russo, in the Circuit Court of Ogle County entitled “In the interest of Charles Wallace III, a minor”, and that in courtroom 202 at 106 South Fifth, Oregon, Illinois on November 4, 2025 at 8:45 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 written notices or publication notices of the proce edings in this case, including the filing of an amended petition for a motion to terminate parental rights. Unless you appear at the hearing 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 7 day of October, 2025
Kimberly A. Stahl Clerk of the Circuit Court
quests 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 written notices or publication notices of the proce edings in this case, including the filing of an amended petition for a motion to terminate parental rights.
Unless you appear at the hearing 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 7 day of October, 2025
Kimberly A. Stahl Clerk of the Circuit Court By: Lisa Baker, Deputy Clerk
Oct. 17, 24, 31, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, IL LINOIS IN THE MATTER OF A CERTIFICATE OF TITLE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE MOUNT MORRIS ESTATES MHP, LLC, an Illinois limited liability company, Plaintiff, v. MARK DENHAM, Defendant. 2025 CH 25 NOTICE BY PUBL ICATION
Mark Denham
company, Plaintiff, v. MARK DENHAM, Defendant. 2025 CH 25 NOTICE BY PUBL ICATION
Mark Denham
That this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendant requesting the entry of a Court Order directing the Illinois Secretary of State issue title to and in that certa in 1974 Mobile Home: VIN: unknown; Title Number unknown, located at 3747 IL Rt 64, Lot 39, Mt Morris, Illinois 61054.
NOW, THEREFORE, UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the Office of the Clerk of this Court: Clerk of the Circuit Court Ogle County Courthouse 106 S. Fifth Street Oregon, IL 61061
On or before December 1, 2025. A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRAYER OF SAID COMPLAINT.
Clerk of the Circuit Court Ogle County Courthouse
106 S. Fifth Street Oregon, IL 61061
On or before December 1, 2025. A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRAYER OF SAID COMPLAINT.
Dated: 10/22/2025
/s/Kimbe rly A Stahl/KG Clerk of the Circuit Court Ogle County, Illinois SEAL
Courtney E. Kennedy (6322625) Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger & Considine, LLC 114 E. Everett St., Suite 300 Dixon, IL 61021 815-288-4949 815-288-3068 (FAX) kennedy@egbclaw. com
NOTE: This law firm is deemed to be a debt collector. Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 2025
STATE OF IL LINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE
I n re the E state of: LESTA F. HARMON, Deceased 2025 PR 58 CL AIM NOTICE
Notice is given of the death of LESTA F HARMON Letters of Office were issued on October 21, 2025, to SHAWN H. HARMON, as Independent Executor.
filed within six (6) months from the date of first publication, or within three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing ordelivery is required by Section 5/18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 1975, as amended, whichever dateis 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 Circuit Clerk, Ogle County JudicialCenter, 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061 - or with the estate legal representative, or both
to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.
By: SHAWN H. HARMON
Independent Executor Law Office s of M. THOMAS SUITS, P.C. 114 W. Mason St. Polo, IL 61064 (815) 946-2276 tom@suitslegal com
Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OG LE COUNTY, ILL INOIS
Dated: 10/22/2025
LLACG Community Investment Fund Plaintiff, Vs. Donna R O`Hara, Unknown Heirs and Legatees of Dennis R O`Hara, Unknown Heirs and Legatees of Donna R O`Hara, unknown owners and non-record claimants, Defendants. 2024FC47 NOTICE BY PUBLICATION NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU: DONNA R O`HARA
UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF DENNIS R O`HARA
UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF DONNA R O`HARA UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS
/s/Kimbe rly A. Stahl/KG Clerk of the Circuit Court Ogle County, Illinois SEAL
Courtney E. Kennedy (6322625) Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger & Considine, LLC
114 E. Everett St., Suite 300 Dixon, IL 61021
Claims against the estate may be filed within six (6) months from the date of first publication, or within three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing ordelivery is required by Section 5/18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 1975, as amended, whichever dateis 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 Circuit Clerk, Ogle County JudicialCenter, 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061 - or with the estate legal representative, or both
Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.
By: SHAWN H. HARMON Independent Executor Law Office s of M. THOMAS SUITS, P.C.
114 W. Mason St. Polo, IL 61064 (815) 946-2276 tom@suitslegal com
Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 2025
the approx. vicinity of 4015 W Edgewood, Grand Detour, Ogle County, IL 61021. Public comments regarding potential effects from this site on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: Trileaf Corp, Lisa Skeens, l.skee ns@trileaf com, 1821 Walde n Office Square Suite 500, Schaumburg, IL, 60173, (630) 227-0202 ext. 554
Oct. 31, 2025
By: Lisa Baker, Deputy Clerk
Oct. 17, 24, 31, 2025
That this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendant requesting the entry of a Court Order directing the Illinois Secretary of State issue title to and in that certa in 1974 Mobile Home: VIN: unknown; Title Number unknown, located at 3747 IL Rt 64, Lot 39, Mt Morris, Illinois 61054.
NOW, THEREFORE, UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the Office of the Clerk of this Court: Clerk of the Circuit Court Ogle County Courthouse 106 S. Fifth Street Oregon, IL 61061 On or before December 1, 2025. A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU AT
815-288-4949 815-288-3068 (FAX) kennedy@egbclaw. com
NOTE: This law firm is deemed to be a debt collector. Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 2025
That this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendants, praying for the foreclosure of a certain Mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to-wit: LOT FOUR (4) IN BLOCK SIXTY-THREE (63) OF B.T. PHELPS' ADDITION TO THE TOWN, NOW CITY OF OREGON, COUNTY OF OGLE, STATE OF ILLINOIS. COMMONLY KNOWN AS 405 N 4TH ST, OREGON, IL 61061 PIN # 16-03-114-004 and which said Mortgage was made by: DENNIS R. O'HARA AND DONNA R. O'HARA, the Mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee as nominee for American Advisors Group, its successors and assigns as Mortgagee, and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of OGLE County, IL, as Document No. 201201205451; and for other relief; that summons was duly issued out of said Court against you as provided by law and that the said suit is now pending. NOW, THEREFORE, UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the Office of the Clerk of this Court, on or before December 1, 2025 A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDG MENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH TH E PRAYER OF SAID COMPLAINT.
Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.
By: SHAWN H. HARMON Independent Executor Law Office s of M. THOMAS SUITS, P.C. 114 W. Mason St. Polo, IL 61064 (815) 946-2276 tom@suitslegal com
E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider. Visit http://efile. illinoiscourts.gov/service-prov iders.htm to learn more and to select a service provider. If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www.i llinoiscourts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp.asp.
Potestivo & Associat es, P.C.
Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 2025
223 W Jackson Blvd., Suite 610 Chicago, IL 60606
NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act you are advised that this law firm is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.
Our File No.: 319522
I3275438 Forres ton Journal Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 2025
Pu blic Notice Cellco Partnership and its controlled affiliate s doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) proposes to collocate wireless communications antennas at a top height of 172 feet on a 178-foot self-support telecommunications tower at the approx. vicinity of 4015 W Edgewood, Grand Detour, Ogle County, IL 61021. Public comments regarding potential effects from this site on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: Trileaf Corp, Lisa Skeens, l.skee ns@trileaf com, 1821 Walde n Office Square Suite 500, Schaumburg, IL, 60173, (630) 227-0202 ext. 554
ing. This meeting will be held at 5:30 pm in the Oregon City Hall Council Chambers at 115 N. 3rd Street. This hearing is regarding a variance/zoning request for the property located at 708 W. Washington Street parcel #16-04-292-004. The reques t is to rezone the property from R-1 Single Family to R-2 Multifamily. Persons with disabilities or non-English speaking persons who wish to attend the public hearing and need assistance should contact City Hall at 115 N 3rd Street Oregon, IL 61061, 815-732-6321. Every effort will be made to make reasonable accommodation for these persons.
Oct. 31, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OG LE COUNTY - OREGON, I LL INOIS METROPOLITAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, PLAINTIFF VS. BRUCE K HOBSON, UNKNOWN OWNERS GENERALLY, AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS. DEFENDANTS CASE NO. 2025FC41
Property Address: 6986 Route 72 Stillman Valley, IL 61084 NOTICE FOR PUBLI CATION
Oct. 31, 2025
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that a public hearing will be held before the Oregon Planning Commission on November 18th, 2025, prior to the Planning Meeting. This meeting will be held at 5:30 pm in the Oregon City Hall Council Chambers at 115 N. 3rd Street. This hearing is regarding a variance/zoning request for the property located at 708 W. Washington Street parcel #16-04-292-004. The reques t is to rezone the property from R-1 Single Family to R-2 Multifamily. Persons with disabilities or non-English speaking persons who wish to attend the public hearing and need assistance should contact City Hall at 115 N 3rd Street Oregon, IL 61061, 815-732-6321. Every effort will be made to make reasonable accommodation for these persons.
Oct. 31, 2025
The requisi te affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given to: Bruce K. Hobson and Unknown Owners, and Non Record Claimants, Defenda nts in the above-entitled action, that a Complaint for Foreclosure and Other Relief has been commenced in the Circuit Court of Ogle County, by said Plaint iff against you and other defendants, praying for the foreclosure of certain mortgages conveying the premises legally describe d as follows: PART OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER (1/4) OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER (1/4) OF SECTION 3, TOWNSHIP 24 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE FOURTH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, BOUNDED AND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS, TO-WIT: BEGINNING AT A POINT OF INTERSECTION OF THE EAST LINE OF SAID QUARTER SECTION AND THE CENTER LINE OF STATE AID ROUTE 72, THE PLAT OF WHICH ROUTE IS RECORDED IN BOOK 5 OF PLATS ON PAGE 104 IN THE RECORDER`S OFFICE OF OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS; (SAID POINT OF INTERSECTION BEING 783.4 FEET NORTH OF THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID NORTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER); THENCE NORTH ALONG THE EAST LINE OF AFORESAID QUARTER SECTION, A DISTANCE OF 295.35 FEET; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY PARALLEL WITH THE CENTER LINE OF AFORESAID ROUTE 72, A DISTANCE OF 150 FEET; THENCE SOUTH PARALLEL WITH THE EAST LINE OF SAID QUARTER SECTION, A DISTANCE OF 295.35 FEET TO THE CENTER LINE OF SAID ROUTE 72; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY ALONG THE CENTER LINE OF SAID ROUTE 72, A DISTANCE OF 150 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; (THE SOUTHERLY 45 FEET [A PERPENDICULAR DISTANCE OF CENTER LINE OF HIGHWAY] OF ABOVE DESCRIBED PREMISES ARE DEDICATED FOR HIGHWAY PURPOSES); SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF OGLE AND THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. P.I.N.: 10-03-400-002
COMMON ADDRESS: 6986 Route 72, Stillman Valley, IL 61084
And which mortgages were made by Bruce K. Hobson, as Mortgagor(s); and given to Ameriques t Mortgage Company as Mortgagee; to wit: that certain "Mortgage" dated (a) 12/13/2002, and recorded as Document No.0218193, that Summons was duly issued out of said court against you as provided by law, and that the said Complaint is now pending for foreclosure of said mortgages and for other relief
Now, therefore, unless you Bruce K. Hobson and Unknown Owners, and Non Record Claimants, file your Appearance and Answer to the Complaint in said action in the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Ogle County, Chancery Division, on or before NOVEMBER 17, 2025, default may be entered against you at any time after that day and a judgment entered in accordance with the prayer for relief in said Complaint.
CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Kluever Law Group, LLC 200 N. LaSalle St. Suite 1880 Chicago, IL 60601 312-236-0077 courtresults@klueverlawgroup.com Atty. No. 6275308 Firm Case#: SMS001572-25FC1 8190-958649 Forreston Journal Oct. 17, 24, 31, 2025 958649
The eagerly awaited IHSA football pairings have been announced. With all the prognostication leading up to them, there weren’t too many surprises.
Here at Shaw Local Sports, we have a numbers guru in Steve Soucie, who turns the state over in predicting the pairings in advance of the IHSA. After Friday’s results from the final regular-season games were in the books, he and his partner, Matt Rodewald, stayed up until the wee hours of the morning, putting up mock brackets for all eight classes.
A bit much you say?
Not for us high school football nerds. I was one of those still awake past 2 a.m. to see what the “Souc” came up with. It’s kind of like when you were a kid on Christmas Eve and could hardly wait until the morning to open presents.
Sure, we could have got it straight from the IHSA on Saturday night, but there is something in the human psyche about the desire for immediacy. Admittedly, it is a character defect, but once in a while, curiosity gets the best of us.
The first thing that stood out is how tough the north bracket is in Class 3A. It has the top five teams in the last statewide AP poll in it.
The potential quarterfinals are doozies with Richmond-Burton (9-0) vs. Bloomington Central Catholic (9-0) and Byron (9-0) vs. IC Catholic (6-3). Even with an undefeated record, Bishop McNamara probably won’t get past ICC in the second round.
Such overloading on one side of the
Andy Colbert
state gives further evidence that each class needs to be seeded 1-32, not north and south 1-16 brackets.
A big question mark is the opposition to 1-32. Where is it coming from? It’s not from the coaches. For years, they have been pleading to play teams from all over the state.
Is it from school administrators who do not want to facilitate long trips? Or is it from schools in the south, who have a pronounced advantage by steering clear of northern teams?
In 2022, the IHSA decided to go 1-32 for all classes, only to rescind that a few months later. Gas prices are a consideration, but I will tell you this from years of covering state tournament action: It doesn’t matter if gas is $10 a gallon; fans and parents will travel anywhere for an important football game. That’s the emotional pull the sport has on us.
And football is a different animal than all other IHSA sports. Certainly, basketball or volleyball would not be bracketed statewide.
Maybe the IHSA feels 1-16 is an adequate compromise over the eight-team quadrant form that used to be in place, which was such a travesty to the landlocked NUIC.
Even with 1-16, it is still Forreston vs Le-Win and Galena vs Stockton, both NUIC rematches. Nobody wants that.
At least Le-Win and Stockton wouldn’t meet until the semifinals.
But anything is possible in high school football. Three weeks ago, I mentioned that Oregon and Stillman Valley were locks to make the playoffs. Well, SV didn’t make it and Oregon barely limps in after a running clock loss to 1A Dwight. Driving home from an early starting Rochelle game, I turned my radio on to listen to 95.7 FM’s Sam Ramirez and Mark Herman call the second half of the Hawks game and was stunned to hear a 28-0 halftime score in favor of Dwight.
At first, I thought Sam had made a mistake. Not so and this partially explains why the IHSA needs to implement 1-32 seeding.
There was an enticing mystery to facing a team you never have seen before. Most of us assumed Oregon would beat Dwight, even Steve Soucie himself.
Although it was a long drive to Dwight, there was an air of intrigue for a first-ever matchup between strangers. When Oregon goes to Byron or Forreston goes to Le-Win in the playoffs, there is no such thing, as these teams have been playing each other forever.
One quirk of the playoff pairings was Benton and Chicago South Shore needing a coin flip to decide who would go 3A or 4A as both had identical enrollments and were right on the 3A/4A bubble. It’s extremely rare for this occurrence and Benton won the coin toss, putting them in 3A.
A side beneficiary of this was Rochelle as a No. 10 seed in 4A, a team
that Soucie had forecasted as facing a very tough Metamora squad. With South Shore ending up in 4A, it became the No. 10 seed and will take on Metamora. Rochelle moved to No. 11 and will face Geneseo, a team it soundly trounced in the first game of the year.
With all the adversity this season, it was good to see the Hubs catch a break. If their defense plays the way it did against Geneseo earlier, they should win. Also, the second-round opponent is a better draw for them as No. 11.
Hard luck story of the playoffs was 4-5 Chicago Marist losing out to 4-5 Chicago Urban-Bronzeville for the 256th and final spot. Six criteria were needed before Bronzeville was declared the qualifier.
Feel-good story of the area is 5-4 Rockford Jefferson making the playoffs for the first time since 1993 when Joe Blume was coaching.
The next longest drought might be Rock Falls, which last qualified in 1992. In a battle between winless opponents, it was Rockford Lutheran edging the Rockets, 22-16.
North Boone got into the playoffs with a 5-4 record, but was whipped by Genoa-Kingston 56-36, which did not get in. G-K (4-4) lost three games by a touchdown or less.
Byron and Dixon ended up with a 828-115 advantage in points over the rest of the BNC.
• Andy Colbert is a longtime Ogle County resident with years of experience covering sports and more for multiple area publications.
By CODY CUTTER ccutter@shawmedia.com
If Polo was looking to get its offense fine-tuned before heading into the Illinois 8-Man Football Association playoffs, it picked the right game to do it.
Polo ended the regular season with a 70-42 nonconference win over South Beloit.
Polo (8-1) enters the 8-man playoffs as a No. 3 seed and will battle No. 14 Hiawatha (5-4) in the first round. Polo beat Hiawatha 54-14 in Week 8 of the regular season.
Against South Beloit, Marcos junior running back Mercer Mumford and senior quarterback JT Stephenson pro-
vided most of the offense for Polo, logging 336 yards of the Marcos’ 440 and all but one of their 10 touchdowns. The pair connected on pass plays for two scores, Stephenson had four TD runs, and Mumford had two TD runs and a 89-yard kick return on a reversal after a Stephenson catch.
Junior running back Jordan Reed’s 68-yard TD run in the fourth quarter saw the Marcos crack 70 points for the first time this season.
“Overall, it was a pretty good game,” Mumford said. “We had some lows, but we managed to pull through to get the victory. Our line held up great when they needed to and picked up our big guys when they needed to. Our backs hit the
holes and helped us get long runs.”
The Marcos overcame a lost fumble on an early punt return to lead 14-8 at the end of one quarter after a 32-yard score by Mumford and his kick return. Polo led 32-14 at halftime after two scores from Stephenson and one by Mumford.
“It took us a couple of tries to get going,” Stephenson said. “We dropped a punt to give them two offensive possessions in a row, but we pulled it off.”
The Sobos (7-2) got as close as 40-28 in the third quarter after scoring back-toback touchdowns. Senior quarterback/ defensive back Kaden Cook started the run with a three-yard TD at 4:24 to cap a drive that began with his interception of a Stephenson pass at the 50. Sophomore
Cristobal Ortega recovered an onside kick to give the Sobos the ball back, and Jaycee Schober capitalized with his third rushing touchdown at 2:14.
Senior lineman Wyatt Plachno captained both lines of scrimmage for Polo and blocked a punt in the fourth quarter.
“Our line did pretty good and did our assignments correctly,” he said. “Our D-line did pretty good for what it is and filled holes when they needed to be filled.”
On the ground, Polo had triple-digit nights from Mumford (23 carries, 220 yards) and Stephenson (15 carries, 162 yards).
Marcos senior Quinton Hart had an onside kick recovery after a Stephenson run put Polo ahead 46-28.
By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com
Boys cross country
Winnebago Regional: Oregon’s Daniel Gonzalez took 12th to advance to the Sherrard Sectional on Saturday. West Carroll’s Roscoe Davies (15th) also advanced as an individual. Forreston took seventh and advanced as a team, led by Landon Graden (22nd). Levi Bocker (36th), Noah Genandt (40th), Eli Weilacher (56th) and Casen Grobe (65th) also scored for the Cardinals. Newman freshman Samuel Gascoinge took 74th but did not advance.
Girls cross country
Winnebago Regional: Oregon took third to advance as a team to the Sherrard Sectional on Saturday. Anya Anaya (11th) led the Hawks, Madeline Rogers was 19th and Jillian Hammer was 20th. Evelyn Anderson was 23rd and Mari Rager was 30th, followed by Lorelai Dannhorn and Christine Ramirez.
Volleyball
Polo wins AFC tournament: The Marcos went 3-0 to take first place, beating Hiawatha (25-13, 25-9), Serena (13-25, 25-21, 15-4) and Somonauk (25-16, 25-15).
Oregon’s Anya Anaya (298) and Sterling Newman’s Grace King (386) run at the Class 1A Winnebago Regional on Oct. 25 at the Levi and Ester Fuller Memorial Forest Preserve. Anaya finished 11th and King was 21st.
Cam Jones was named all-tournament after tallying 37 assists, 22 digs and 10 aces.
Boys soccer
Byron 1, Oregon 0: The fourth-seeded Hawks battled but fell short in a Class 1A regional final matchup against the top-seeded Tigers (17-5-1). Oregon finished the season 15-10. It was their most wins in a season since going 16-9 and winning a regional title in 2019.
Football
Stockton 44, Forreston 6: The Cardinals (5-4, 4-4) fell on the road to the No. 1
Blackhawks (9-0, 8-0) to close the regular season. Forreston is a No. 14 seed in the Class 1A playoffs and will face No. 3 Lena-Winslow (8-1) in the first round. They return to the playoffs after a rare 2-7 down season last year following three straight eight-win seasons under Kenyon Janicke.
Dwight 41, Oregon 8: The Hawks (5-4) were shut out until the fourth quarter in the road loss. Dwight (6-3) led 28-0 at halftime. Oregon received a No. 15 seed and will face No. 2 Byron (9-0) in the playoffs. The Hawks qualified for the playoffs for a third straight year under Broc Kundert for the first time since a run of six straight appearances in 20062011.
Thursday Oct. 23
Volleyball
Polo def. AFC 25-13, 25-17: Reese Mekeel led the Marcos with eight kills and Laynie Mandrell (three aces) added six kills. Grace Miatke had eight digs.
Tuesday Oct. 21
Boys soccer
Oregon 6, North Boone 3: Ivan Hernandez scored a hat trick, and Deryk Withers had six saves as the fourth-seeded Hawks (15-9) advanced to the Class 2A Byron Regional final against top-seeded Byron.
Aidan Hammer, Steven Guardado and Elliot Peeling also found the net against North Boone.
Volleyball
Polo def. Amboy 25-15, 25-18: Cam Jones (six digs, nine assists) led Polo with eight kills, and Grace Miatke had eight digs and an ace in the win. Brylee Laskowski added 10 assists, and Laynie Mandrell had six kills and an ace.
Monday, Oct. 20
Volleyball
Morrison def. Erie-Prophetstown 25-22, 26-24: The Mustangs earned the road win.
1973: Tom Seaver wins National League Cy Young Award.
2014: Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, Frank Thomas, Bobby Cox, Tony La Russa and Joe Torre are inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York.
Friday, October 31, 2025
Oregon advances to regional final with 6-3 win over North Boone / photos, page 15; prep roundup, page 14