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MT. MORRIS TIMES VOLUME 53 NO. 12 • SERVING THE MT. MORRIS AREA SINCE 1967

FRIDAY, May 15, 2020 • $1.00

TRIO IN TUNE

REGIONAL NEWS

Motion Filed Convicted comptroller is asking to be released due to COVID-19. / 18

LOCAL NEWS

A Wave Parade Perfect weather for Pinecrest’s first “Wave Parade”. / 15

Weekend Event An area business is offering a special outside event for Memorial Day Weekend. / 14

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

Oregon music and band teachers Miles Beske (center), Andy Eckardt (left), and Zach Hall (right) play at the Warren Reckmeyer Bandshell in Mt. Morris on Monday during the school district’s “Musical Telephone Performance”. Student musicians were asked to play their instruments at home when they heard the music start. The event was also held in Oregon earlier in the day. Story on page 2.

One Section - 20 Pages

INDEX Betty’s Column......... 5 Church News............12 City Council............... 2 Classifieds.......... 18-19 COVID-19 Update...... 3

Published every Friday

by Ogle County Newspapers, a division of Shaw Media

Encore!...................... 11 Extension................... 9 Library News..........7-8 Park District............ 10 Oregon Police...........17

DEATHS None Submitted

Otto’s Column........... 6 Property Transfers...17 School News............16 Sheriff Activity.........17 Statue Update..........14

Mt. Morris Times / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 15, 2020

| MT. MORRIS BEAT

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MT. MORRIS

Times

VILLAGE BOARD

Concerts still up in the air

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

oglecountynews.com OFFICE 113-115 Peoria Ave. Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 732-6166 ext. 2592 Fax: (815) 284-2078 SUBSCRIPTIONS $39 in Ogle County, and $52 outside Ogle County.

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CLASSIFIED SALES 815-284-2222 OBITUARIES 815-732-6166, ext. 2591 ehinton@oglecountynews.com Deadline for obituaries is 2 p.m. Tuesday for Friday’s edition SEND NEWS news@oglecountynews.com General Manager Earleen Hinton 815-732-6166, ext. 2591 ehinton@oglecountynews.com

Kable summer band concerts in Mt. Morris are still up in the air due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Band Director Andy Eckardt addressed the Mt. Morris Village Board on Tuesday seeking the board’s thoughts on the possibility of concerts taking place this summer.

The board opted to take no action and to wait and see what happens with state mandates.

“I’m trying to plan and figure out if we’re going to have a season,” Eckardt said. “I’m also worried that it’s going to come down from the state or the village that we can’t do it. The Kable board wants to wait and see. Area bands are waiting until after July 4. I guess for now I should plan on moving forward.”

The concerts have taken place in downtown Mt. Morris for over 120 years. They take place on Wednesday and Friday nights.

Village Attorney Rob LeSage said that

the Governor’s current stay-at-home order is the law of Illinois. That order currently bans gatherings of more than 10 people.

“At this point, there’s nothing for you to authorize,” LeSage said.

LeSage also added that the guideline situation is fluid and he believes it could change by the next board meeting or the one after that.

Trustee Philip Labash cited the state’s reopening plan and noted that the future phase four of the Reopen Illinois plan allows for gatherings of 50 people or fewer, which would put the summer concerts in jeopardy.

“I’d hate to see a summer with no band concerts, that would be miserable,” Labash said. “But I don’t know if that’s going to happen.”

It was also said at the meeting that the village’s Fourth of July Festival has been cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns and low funding.

The organizers are working on still having some sort of presence, with ideas like a 60-40 drawing still in play.

SPECIAL EVENT Mobile food pantry May 20 Loaves & Fish Food Pantry alongside Northern Illinois Food Bank is hosting a Mobile Food Pantry on May 20.

The truck will be located at Mt. Morris Church of the Brethren (lower level) 409 West Brayton Road, from 10 – 11:30 a.m.

This mobile pantry is open anyone in Ogle County. Northern Illinois Food Bank partners with over 800 feeding program partners across 13 counties to serve those needing food.

This is an “extra” food distribution. Loaves & Fish Pantry clients are still eligible to receive their normal monthly food allotment.

The pantry is open on the first and third Thursdays from 4:30 – 7 p.m. and the second and fourth Mondays from 2-4:30 p.m.

For more information, call 815734-4250 or 815-734-4573.

LIVE MUSIC

Music students bring live music to streets in Oregon and Mt. Morris

Oregon and Mt. Morris residents who heard live music in their neighborhoods on Monday can thank music students, and their three instructors.

A “Musical Telephone Performance” began will with Andy Eckardt, Miles Beske, and Zach Hall performing through the football stadium loud speakers at 3 p.m. followed by a 4:30 p.m. start from the Church of the Brethren in Mt.

Morris.

Students were asked to be ready to play/sing any music they wanted from 30 seconds up to 30 minutes.

“This was meant to be a performance opportunity for our musicians who missed out on their spring concerts,” Eckardt, the OHS band director, posted.

The invitation to play extended to non-students of any age.

Editor Jeff Helfrich 815-732-6166, ext. 2590 jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com Advertising Sales Lori Walker 815-625-3600, Ext. 2555 lwalker@oglecountynews.com Mt. Morris Times, Ogle County News and oglecountynews.com are a division of Shaw Media.

Ogle County Newspapers also prints the Forreston Journal, Oregon Republican Reporter, and Polo’s Tri-County Press.

The MT. MORRIS TIMES (USPS No. 365-440) is published weekly by B.F. Shaw Printing Co., Shaw Media.

Periodical postage paid at Mt. Morris, Illinois.

POSTMASTER Send address changes to MT. MORRIS TIMES, P.O. Box 8, Oregon, IL 61061.

Phone 815-732-6166, ext. 2516.

All rights reserved.

Copyright 2020

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

Alex T. Paschal/Shaw Media

TOP LEFT: Brandon Rowe plays the drums from his home in Mt. Morris on Monday afternoon during the school district’s “Musical Telephone Performance”. Student musicians were asked to play their instruments at home when they heard the music start. The event was also held in Oregon earlier in the day. TOP RIGHT: Abigail Rogers, Brandon Hyde-Jones and Rowe play a selection of music in front of the Oregon High School.

COVID-19 UPDATES

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com The Ogle County Health Department announced 14 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, bringing its total to 171.

The 14-case jump was the largest in a single daily report since the start of the pandemic. Ages and locations of the individuals are not being released to protect their privacy.

The Illinois Department of Public Health announced one new death in

the county on Tuesday, a man in his 80s. The OCHD has not yet reported the death, which would be its third since the start of the pandemic.

Six new recoveries were confirmed Tuesday, totaling 97.

The IDPH site said Tuesday that there are 114 cases in the 61068 zip code that includes Rochelle, Creston and White Rock.

Stillman Valley’s zip code, 61084, has six cases in it according to the IDPH site. Byron’s zip code, 61010, has six cases.

The zip codes that house Oregon

(61061) and Mt. Morris (61054) each have six cases, respectively.

The OCHD’s Tuesday Facebook post included information that may explain why their information and the IDPH’s may differ.

“There are various reasons why the numbers do not match,” The post said. “For example, was the specimen tested at the state lab or a commercial lab? Does the commercial lab use the state system?

Were the results of a test faxed to the health department? Was it transferred from another county? Things

like this take time to catch up and will impact when it is reflected in state reporting. Your county health department numbers are always the most accurate up to date numbers available.”

Lee, Ogle leaders to submit plan to state for reopening

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

ber one thing is to keep everyone safe. We researched extensive documents. It was received positively and gone through critically by the health department administrators and hospital personnel.”

The plan has five phases. Phase zero is planning. Phase one is the opening of nonessential businesses and continued planning. Phase two is the allowing small social gath-

erings. The third phase involves capacities for businesses and gatherings and partial restaurant openings. The fourth phase is the governor lifting the stay-at-home order.

Occupancy requirements would involve 25 percent capacity or no more than five people. Langloss said these plans are made with “main

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• Friday, May 15, 2020

A group of Lee and Ogle County leaders have drafted a pilot plan to submit to the state that could see the area reopen differently and sooner than larger communities, Dixon City Manager Danny Langloss said last week.

County and city leaders, hospital

representatives, health department administrators, first responders and State Rep. Tom Demmer are among those involved with the plan. Demmer plans to submit the plan to the Governor’s Office, but as of Tuesday, he hadn’t.

“The driving force was that rural communities shouldn’t be held to the same restrictions as larger communities,” Langloss said. “The num-

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Ogle COVID-19 case total at 171 as of Tuesday, May 12

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Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 15, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

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COVID-19 ON THE FARM

Beef farmers struggle with supply chain issues ‘This is going to make some people go bankrupt’

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com In January, Justin Rahn was in Cancun. That was where he first started reading news of COVID-19.

Shortly after returning, the Polo and Mt. Carroll farmer sold his cattle in February as he usually does.

He did it at the right time.

“I had several looks at my cattle when I got back and they gave me bad prices,” Rahn said. “The next week it went up $5 and I got rid of them. It ended up being a good time.

It was by luck. After, it fell $35. If I wouldn’t have gotten out, it would have been more of a bloodbath.”

The beef market has fallen since the outset of COVID-19 due to supply chain issues like processing plants shutting down or cutting back and demand changing due to restaurants closing.

Rahn has around 100 feedlot steers and 150 cows. In addition to selling in February, he sells cows throughout the year. Prices have been in the place where he’s taking a loss. Circumstances have also pushed back his usual process to start back over.

“Am I going to go broke tomorrow? No,” Rahn said. “ But it’s a financial strain on farmers. I bought cows to fill the feedlot back up in February and it’s fallen since.”

The current value of Rahn’s cattle isn’t going to pay the bills, Rahn said. The possibility of getting rid of them if he had to is 8-10 weeks out. Individuals have called him and asked if they could buy beef directly.

Some pig farmers are resorting to selling to individuals to get rid of their livestock and avoid eutha-

• REOPENING? Continued from Page 3 street-type businesses” in mind.

Training and personal protective equipment would be required and “hopefully” more testing. There will be additional cleaning and lists of who comes into the businesses as well.

The Governor’s office introduced its own five-phase plan on May 5 for reopening the state, which is under a stay-at-home order through

Alex T. Paschal/Shaw Media

ABOVE: Grain and beef farmer Justin Rahn gestures while speaking about his cattle in a pasture near Polo. Rahn has no lack of beef but just simply has nowhere to sell them. The COVID-19 pandemic has interrupted the supply chain and the farmers are really hurting.

BELOW: Justin Rahn’s cattle graze in a pasture near Polo. nasia. Things won’t come to that for beef farmers, Rahn said. And smaller processing plants are booked up for months anyways.

Rahn is most frustrated by misconceptions about the supply chain that suggest that there’s a shortage of beef.

“They say there’s a lack of meat in stores,” Rahn said.

“In reality, we have lots full of animals ready to go and we can’t get them to markets. It’s a bad situation.”

President Donald Trump signed an executive order last week mandating that meat processing plants stay open. But, Ogle County Farm Bureau manager Ron Kern said that may not change much due to the nature of COVID-19 outbreaks closing them.

“They shut down and clean up,”

Kern said. “When they come back and reopen, if 400 of 1,200 have it, they’re not coming back. The other 800, they’re saying they might not want to go, so there’s absenteeism.

They’re only running at 50 percent capacity at best. And you can’t grab people off the street to do that work.”

It is the hope of Rahn and other

farmers that the economy gets back to where it was before the pandemic. He believes it’ll be slow. It’s also his hope that he’ll see the same faces in business in August that he saw in January.

“We just want normal, open markets,” Rahn said. “But this is going to make some people go bankrupt.”

Rahn said the situation will make him a better manager with cutting costs and expenses. He farms grain as well, which is also down due to bad weather last year and ethanol plants being shut down or at minimal capacity. He’s being hit on both sides.

“What makes me not sleep at night is knowing I’m losing money no matter what I’ll be working on the next day,” Rahn said.

May 30. Langloss said the group had to make some edits to its plan after Restore Illinois was released Tuesday such as numbering phases differently on its own to avoid confuTom sion.

Demmer The group is unsure of the timeline for the possible pilot program, but thinks it could take effect before May 30.

“Based on data, we should be able to move into phase one,” Langloss

said. “By the end of the week, Demmer will present the plan to the Governor’s office. We can’t know when or how they’ll respond.

We’ll work with them from there.”

Danny If an uptick in Langloss COVID-19 cases or less capacity in hospitals is seen, the plan would revert backwards, Langloss said.

The group submitting the plan is called the Lee and Ogle County Exec-

utive Leadership Team. It looked at plans some other counties are putting together, like Adams County.

Langloss said the group wants to help its businesses, who have had different impacts and needs than those in other communities.

“Our businesses are struggling and they need to know their leaders are fighting for them,” Langloss said.

“Everyone is eager to get going. Our community has made so many sacrifices. Nobody knows how to help local communities more than local leaders. That’s why we did this.”

POLO HISTORY

BY BETTY OBENDORF Curator, Polo Historical Society

Ken Obendorf (seated in center) received a gift bag from Leroy Toms, 95, also of Polo in social distancing style, on the end of a long pole. Obendorf celebrated his 90th birthday on May 7. Sitting with Ken is his wife, Betty. Photo supplied We went through a great many bags of Tootsie Rolls in all the years we marched for Jerry Mitchell in numerous parades.

It was great to see Kurt and Pat Erickson from Galena.

We had worked with them on so many Jerry Mitchell parades when we volunteered together and had not seen them since they left Polo.

Another surprise was Tim Bivins and his wife Terrie who drove by and greeted us.

We had not seen them since Tim retired from the political world where we all worked together.

Then came the Polo police with sirens going and the old REO firetruck that is also 90 this year.

That was the frosting on the cake for Kenneth as we finished up two hours of the drive-by birthday on that beautiful afternoon just perfect for a different type of birthday celebration.

What surprised us the most was our daughter Krista and her husband Jim, who drove-by in the beginning and joined us.

We had not anticipated them coming at all for just the drive-by. It was difficult not having a big party as planned for everyone.

We have not been the only ones to have plans change.

It has been a different year and we all have adjusted.

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• Friday, May 15, 2020

We both woke up at 2:30 a.m. on May 7 and I said, “Happy 90th birthday!”

Kenneth replied, “I made it!”

He really was surprised at reaching that milestone since his father had died at 62, his mother in her mid- seventies, and his sister at 53.

Kenneth always said he would not reach 80 and I always said I would then go down and spend the winter in Cape Girardeau with my cousin Rosemary.

Here we are celebrating Kenneth’s 90th and I have not been down to spend one winter with Rosemary.

We are both amazed that we have reached this point in our lives and it was quite a day on Thursday, May 7.

Soon after breakfast on that eventful day the doorbell rang and it was Polo Floral with a beautiful pink azalea plant from Rich and Jeanne Hose in Eagle Point.

Kenneth was speechless and said, “I have never received flowers before!”

Then at noon here came Bob and Shirley Heath with our lunch from Polo Food Market. Chicken legs, mashed potatoes and gravy, and green beans!

My, did that taste good. We have missed running over there for a quick lunch of our favorite food these last two months. We were off to a great start.

Soon family members started to arrive to get ready for the big driveby that the kids had planned for their dad. It was a beautiful day to sit out on our drive-way and greet people as they drove by.

Over 90 cars drove by and others walked up to say happy birthday.

Even though there were no hugs or handshakes people were clever in making it a day to remember.

They came with signs and balloons on their cars to say “happy birthday.”

LeRoy Toms was indeed clever and followed the social distancing guidelines.

He jumped out of his van, placed a gift bag on the sidewalk, and then pulled out a long pole which he hooked the gift bag on the end, and then handed it to Kenneth. He was definitely the required distance for coronavirus guidelines. How clever for someone 95 years young.

Carol Garkey also was clever with a container of Tootsie Rolls for Kenneth.

She said “You always throw out candy in a parade!” She was correct.

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

90th birthday celebration was full of surprises

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Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 15, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

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LOCAL HISTORY

Historic flag once graced White Rock Burg Editor’s note: Otto Dick, Oregon has researched the people, places and events important in the Oregon area’s history for the Ogle County Historical Society. The following is one of a series of the articles he has written.

BY OTTO DICK An article in the Civil War Centennial Edition of the Rockford Morning Star is titled “White Rock Burg’s Flag Signaled Joys, Sorrows”.

White Rock Burg was a community in White Rock Township located in Ogle County. Early on this was one of the largest communities in eastern Ogle County.

This community, which no longer exists, received its mail from a stagecoach from Chicago on the C & I Trail.

The C & I Trail came through Oregon past the VFW heading west into Iowa.

Merle Haselton of Rochelle, a former president of the Ogle County Historical Society, showed his grandson, James Haselton, the historic American flag which gave the White Rock settlers news of the Union victories and defeats. This photo is missing.

“When the Union won a battle the flag was hoisted to the very top of the two 50 foot poles and the good news could be seen for miles. When the Union was defeated, the flag hung low and spirits drooped accordingly.”

When news of Lincoln’s assassination reached Ogle County via stagecoach, the flag was lowered to just above the ground.

The flag of White Rock Burg was sewed by hand during the summer of 1863. It was 30 feet long and 30 feet high with red and white stripes each 18 inches in width.

The five point white stars were 8 inches in diameter. They numbered 35 because West Virginia had entered the Union June 20, 1863 as the 35th state.

Intricate sewing was necessary to insert the 35 white stars into the same size designs cut out of the blue material , but the task was accomplished so the stars were visible from both sided of the flag.

This same flag was hoisted at Memorial Day services for 50 years. At that time the White Rock Center Cemetery Association voted to retire this flag and a duplicate flag was hoisted during Memorial Day services.

In order that the flag might be preserved as a reminder of the far greater carnage and sacrifices in the War Between the States I intend to display a photo of this flag at the Oregon Depot in our Military Room.

With TV, cell phones, radio and

ABOVE: This was taken at the Ogle County Historical Society several years ago. Notice you can see the courthouse through a torn hole in the star section. BELOW: This flag is now located at the Ogle County Judicial Storage Facility. Photos supplied by Otto Dick Internet let’s not forget that during the Civil War if our son died in battle sometimes it took several days to receive the news.

An article adjacent to the above article was titled “Sumter Soldier Died in Mishap. Daniel Hough, a U. S. artillery private was killed in an accidental explosion that occurred when a salute was being fired before the evacuation of Fort Sumter”.

In military action, Hough can be called the first fatality of the Civil War. During the Civil War many soldiers died from accidents and illness caused by the conditions of war.

The Dixon Evening Telegraph wrote: “Among the exhibits in the Ogle County Historical Society Museum is the 35-star flag made by women of the White Rock Community and was used during the Civil War. Paul Hardesty, Oregon, former President of the Society, is pictured holding the flag, obtained by C. Merle Haselton of Rochelle for the Society.”

This flag was flown for this photo at the Historical Society. This flag was flown on Memorial Day for 50 years after the Civil War. C. Merle Haselton was a member of the first Ogle County Historical Board of Directors in 1955.

POLO LIBRARY

Byron Public Library Closed Due to the shelter in place order issued by the state of Illinois, the Byron Public Library is completely closed until further notice. Due dates have been extended by our library system so there is no need to worry about late fees! If you need to contact the library you can send us a message through email, Facebook, or our website, or you can leave us a message at 815-234-5107. Practice social distancing and stay safe, everyone!

Temporary Library Building Closure In cooperation with the Governor’s Stay at Home orders, and to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, Polo Public Library is closed until further notice and all programs scheduled during this time have been cancelled or rescheduled.

FHN – W E’ RE HERE , FOR YO U.

Need a Library Card?

If you are new to Polo and haven’t had a chance to get a library card, or maybe you aren’t normally a reader but would like to try ebooks during this time, we will be issuing temporary library cards for people in Buffalo Township.

If you are interested in this, please email library@pololibrary.org for more information.

2020 Summer Reading Program June 1- July 31 “Dig Deeper: Read, Investigate, Discover!”

Our 2020 Summer Reading Program has gone digital! We have programs for all ages. Visit our website, pololibrary. org, to register.

Read for a Cause With the help of Community Partners, our Summer Reading Program can make a difference. Instead of physical prizes this year, we will be reading towards a monetary donation to the Polo Lifeline Food Pantry. Join us in reading and give back to our community this summer!

From the history of Buffalo Township Public Library The Polo Library opened on Dec. 21, 1871 for two evenings and on Saturday afternoon and evening. Miss E. Franc Barber was the librarian and teaching school in the daytime.

Miss Barber told in her history sketch that “we were the first Public

Library to have open shelves; that is, where people could select books from the shelves rather than from catalogues.” Also from her history sketch, I quote ”This was the first public library west of Chicago, and two years older than Chicago’s, which did not exist until after the great fire of 1871 (then Queen sent them a large consignment of books).

So we were pioneers in this work.

In the Tri-County Press, April 22, 1971, a quote, “Despite previous historical writings, the Library is the 23rd oldest in Illinois.” - Karen Scholl, Librarian Wi-Fi Access Wi-Fi is still available outside of the library building by joining the Polo Public Library Guest Access network, you do not need a password.

Questions?

If you have any questions or comments, please let us know by calling 815-946-2713 or emailing library@ pololibrary.org.

We sincerely hope that everyone stays healthy and safe during this time.

WE’RE OPEN FOR YOU. WE’RE SAFE FOR YOU. WE’RE HERE…FOR YOU. As we’ve all seen even more clearly recently, your health is so important – so don’t put off visiting your FHN provider or scheduling appointments! Our offices and hospital are open, and we’re as ready as ever to care for you and your family.

If you are cautious about being out in public, please know that we’ve taken every possible precaution to keep both you and our staff safe. From wearing masks and social distancing to vigilant cleaning and reorganizing our locations for appropriate separation and isolation, you can find details of the many steps we’ve taken at our coronavirus update page at www.fhn.org/coronavirus.

Our providers and staff are ready to welcome you, and we’re asking you to start visiting us again now to help us continue to be a strong and viable part of your community. If you already have an FHN provider, just call their office – if you need help, call us at 1-877-600-0346 ext. 965.

As we all begin to return to a “new normal,” some things will certainly be different.

What won’t change is our commitment to providing the best healthcare we can offer. We’ve been here since 1902 and with you as our partner, we look forward to being here for the rest of our second century too. Please call today and make that appointment you’ve been putting off – we’re still here, for you!

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• Friday, May 15, 2020

Online Book Club Are you missing the ability to chat with other book lovers? Join us for Hoopla Book Club. There are two ways to participate either virtually or over the phone.

The book we will be discussing is “The Art of Racing in the Rain” by Garth Stein.

It is available on Hoopla either as an ebook or audiobook. We will be “meeting” on Monday, May 18 at 10 a.m. through Zoom. Zoom Meeting information: Meeting ID: 885 8182 2730 Password: 017822 or if you prefer to join us by phone call 312-626-6799 and enter the Meeting ID number and Password.

If you have any questions about Hoopla or book club, please email bethm@byron. lib.il.us.

Online Resources You are still be able to use Axis 360, OMNI/Overdrive, Libby, and Biblioboard for e-resources (books, audio books) and we will continue to share resources on our Facebook page (Facebook. com/pololibrary) to help fill the gap while you can’t use the library.

Materials Renewed All currently checked out materials have been renewed until June 26.

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

BYRON LIBRARY

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 15, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

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OREGON LIBRARY “Books are good company, in sad times and happy times, for books are people – people who have managed to stay alive by hiding between the covers of a book.” – E.B. White, author of Charlotte’s Web, Stuart Little & The Trumpet of the Swan.

Did You Know?

In January 1933, a small fire, probably from faulty electric wiring in the basement of the west wing of the Library, burned and charred a section of the floor of the children’s room. 200 books were totally destroyed and 481 books were severely damaged. Cost of repair, material replacement and cleaning was $570.13. The Library was closed to the public for one week.

(Information compiled from historical documents found in cupboards in the Library office and Ogle County Reporter Jan. 18, 1933.)

Library Closure Due to the shelter in place order the Oregon Public Library will be closed until further notice. All programs have also been cancelled. We hope to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and contribute to the health of the community.

Since we are a fine free library you will not be accruing fines for overdue materials, so don’t worry about returning your items.

Use our WiFi outside of our building by connecting to the Oregon Library

can also download titles onto Libby for offline use. To get started enjoying ebooks, audiobooks and more, visit https://omnilibraries.overdrive. com/ or download Libby today.

Big News!

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mt. Morris and Oregon Public Libraries are temporarily waiving non resident fees and offering that anyone living within the boundaries of the Oregon Unit School District can sign up for a temporary library card.

This special digital card will allow access to the library’s electronic resources for a limited time period which will be helpful in supporting stuThe winner of the Lego Challenge at the Oregon Public Library was Kendra Ehrler. dents’ e-learning as well as meet other informational and recreational needs.

Guest Access WiFi network that doesn’t This temporary card is valid until Sept. 1.

To apply for a free temporary card, need a password. please visit http://oregonpubliclibrary. com/services/library-cards/ to complete We Now Have Overdrive the online form or email Mt. Morris for E Books!

Readers may browse OPL’s digital col- library at mmlib@mtmorris-il.org. lection, instantly borrow titles and start Senior Chats! - NEW reading or listening for free with a valid Are you home alone, would you like library card. This service is compatible a call from your favorite library staff with all major computers and devices, member? Call the Oregon Public Library iPhone®, iPad®, Android™ phones and tablets and Chromebook™ without wait 815-732-2724 and leave a message with two days of the week that work, what lists or holds.

Through Libby, readers can also “send time of day and who you would like to speak with from the library. to Kindle®”. All titles will automatically We don’t want anyone feeling isolated expire at the end of the lending period during this unusual time and we miss and there are no late fees. Readers

Virtual Story Time- Every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m.

Join Miss Kaitlyn for story time at home!

Visit our facebook page every Wednesday.

Can’t join live? No problem! We will be

What Ya Watchin’ Wednesdays every other Wednesday Join the Library Director, Hilaree Lombardo and Adult Programming’s, Cari Berg to discuss what you are watching during shelter-in-place. We will share our thoughts on various television shows, Netflix series, Movies, Podcasts, and more. Visit our Facebook page for the Zoom link to our next discussion on May 6 at 7 p.m. Of course, we will cover The Tiger King!

Available Resources for Your Stay at Home Online Resources: Audiobooks & eBooks are available on Axis 360 and Biblioboard.Links are available on our website: oregonpubliclibrary.com/ online-resources/TumbleBooklibrary (www.tumblebooklibrary.com) TumbleBooks - eBooks for eKids! is a collection of animated talking picture books, read-alongs, ebooks, quizzes, lesson plans, and educational games which is used by thousands of schools and public libraries in over 100 countries across the world.

TumbleBooks can be accessed by our patrons from the comfort and safety of their homes! Go to the Library website, free educational resources for login procedures.

The Oregon Public Library is located at 300 Jefferson Street in Oregon.

FORRESTON LIBRARY

MT. MORRIS LIBRARY Get a Digital Card!

Big news! Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mt. Morris and Oregon Public Libraries are temporarily waiving non resident fees and offering that anyone living within the boundaries of the Oregon Unit School District can sign up for a temporary library card.

This special digital card will allow access to the library’s electronic resources for a limited time period which will be helpful in supporting students’ e-learning as well as meet other informational and recreational needs.

This temporary card is valid until September 1st, 2020.

To apply for a free temporary card, please email Mt. Morris library at mmlib@mtmorris-il. org.

our patrons!

uploading the video for you to view at any time.

Summer Reading Program!

Summer Reading Program is still happening! We will be using a program called Readsquared to make goals, track books, and issue challenges from home.

There will be a few take home projects you can pick up with your books as well.

Though the library plans to reopen for lending purposes as soon as possible we will not be having any in person activities this summer.

We are also working on how to include those that will not be able to use an internet based program.

Keep your eyes open for more information as we work through this change.

The Mt, Morris Public Library is located at 105 S. McKendrie Ave. in Mt. Morris. Call 815734-4927 or visit www.mtmorris-il.org.

Library Closure To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, Forreston Public Library will remain closed until further notice. All programs/ activities are cancelled and all due dates have been extended.

You may return materials in the book drop at any time. eBooks/WiFi Even though the library is closed, you may still enjoy eBooks through Axis 360 and Biblioboard. If you would like more information on creating an account, please message us on Facebook or email forrestonpubliclibrary@gmail.com and we’ll help you get set up. You may also access the internet outside the library by connecting to our WiFi. No password is required.

Preschool Outreach If your preschooler would like to receive a story page and activity sheet through the mail, please call the library at (815)938-2624 or message us on Facebook or through email.

Census 2020 Local and state funding depends on an accurate count for the census. If you haven’t completed yours, please do. Everybody counts!

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Ogle County Master Gardeners pose for a photo at the 2019 Master Gardener picnic. Pictured here, including some spouses are: Bill Paulin, Joan Stehulak, Bill Sarafin, Merilyn May, Sally Sarafin, Mary Korth, Jim May, Sue Paulin, Judi Bright and husband, Elizabeth Sosa, Norah, Sosa, Larry Ermey, Phil Bratta, Norm Metz, Jim Patapack, and Leah Patapack. Photo supplied

Horticulture Hotline is open First year gardeners who want to know what and when to plant or to have a plant or insect identified can contact an Ogle County Master Gardener via the telephone or email.

You can call or email your question at the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners of Ogle County call 815-732-2191, or email your question with photos, uiemg-ogle@illinois.edu,”

said Elizabeth Sosa, Extension program coordinator. “The hotline is available now through September. We’ll make sure your question gets answered by our expert Master Gardeners,” Master Gardeners are volunteers who are trained by University of Illinois Extension Educators. They offer expert advice on gardening questions. “Helping Others Learn to Grow”.

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• Friday, May 15, 2020

A Ogle County attraction will be featured on the May 14 episode, “Small Town Big Deal” RFD-TV show.

Co-hosts Rodney Miller and Jann Carl will feature Barnacopia, located between Mt. Morris and Polo on Illinois 64. The show, scheduled to air at 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, will highlight Gary Bocker’s collection of tractors and farming artifacts..

With more than 1 million viewers weekly, Small Town Big Deal show travels the country highlighting interesting people, communities and events in celebration of the countless great stories of America.

A lifelong farmer, Miller is also a former CEO with national tractor manufacturer McCormick International.

Carl is a former correspondent and weekend anchor for Entertainment Tonight.

“Small Town Big Deal” premiered in September 2012 on cable channel RFD-TV and since then has grown and attracted a nationwide audience.

The highly rated show celebrates the great stories of America, showcasing communities, unusual events and inspirational individuals across the country.

The show appears in syndication on more than 170 local stations in over 87 percent of U.S. television markets, including such leading TV stations as ABC in New York City, Philadelphia, Chicago and Atlanta and CBS in Los Angeles.

It is also broadcast on the Armed Forces Network for viewing at U.S. military bases across the world.

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Ogle County’s Barnacopia to be featured in RFD-TV show

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 15, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

10

COVID 19 & RECREATION

Oregon Park District progressing on projects But special events and softball, baseball seasons are canceled

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com The Oregon Park District planned to refinish its hardwood gym floors in late May. Due to COVID-19 closing, it was able to complete that project on Wednesday, April 29.

The park district and its Nash Recreation Center have been closed since March 14.

Two bathrooms have also been refinished and painting was done.

Staff is being rotated so only one employee is in the building at a time.

This usually vibrant district is quiet.

“It’s been difficult,” Executive Director Erin Folk said. “Our staff works hard to do programs. They had to cancel them into June due to guidelines. We’re looking at rescheduling some of them in the summer or fall.”

The park district’s outdoor crew is working full-time and getting things like mowing done as usual. Construction on its Park West project is still moving along and is scheduled to be finished by June 2.

Currently, work is being done on grading and getting the path ready for asphalt. That will happen in early May. The shelter is in the process of going up. The south parking lot was finished on April 28 and 20 parking spots were added. The playground at the top of the park will be in on May 4.

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

New playground equipment and a new shelter are all part of the upgrades currently under construction at Oregon Park West.

“COVID-19 really hasn’t delayed us,” Folk said. “Our two contractors, Martin and Stenstrom said prior to this that they had no concerns due to COVID-19.”

The recreation staff has tried to get creative to step up virtual activities in an effort to get the community active at home, Folk said.

All special events through July

Thank You We want to thank all the many law enforcement departments, Oregon Fire department, City of Oregon Departments, Ogle County Highway department, Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home, Brent Johnson and each and every one who reached out to us and supported us for the passing of our son, husband and father.

Your thoughts, prayers and show of support was truly humbling and gave us much needed comfort in our time of need and great sorrow.

A distance of 3.8 miles leads from the funeral home to the Daysville Cemetery and there wasn’t a 100 yard stretch that did not have someone posted showing support and wishing us well-being.

This display was staggering and we deeply appreciate each one of you. You helped make up for the services we could not have for Scott or the send off he deserved.

You all have a very special place in our hearts. God Bless you all.

The Family of Scott Bowers

31 have been canceled, including the Color Run, the summer concert series, Brown Bag lunches and the sprint triathlon.

The 2020 softball and baseball seasons have also been canceled. The farmer’s market is planned to open on July 7 and will only go on if safety guidelines can be followed.

Folk is unsure about a potential reopen date after the shelter in place is lifted and said it will depend on guidelines by the Illinois Depart-

ment of Public Health and the Center for Disease Control.

Her biggest concerns are the fitness center and the pool at Nash.

“We can’t put a timeframe on it, but we’d like to be open June 1,” Folk said. “We’re putting up glass partitions at the desk and putting in more hand sanitizer stations. The number of people allowed in could be limited and we could move equipment to allow for social distancing.”

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COVID-19 & RECREATION

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

Elliot Blache, of Byron, poses by the straw sculpture The Troll as Tracy Concerton, also of Byron, takes a photo during the 2019 event in Mt. Morris. the use of the campus. It’s a little empty, not being able to do the things we’re used to doing. We’re usually promoting in February and March.”

Bold isn’t sure how to quantify the amount of

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• Friday, May 15, 2020

Jeff Bold has been working on funding and reserving spaces for his recently-rescheduled Encore! Mt. Morris summer community art events.

Those asks have been tough for the Encore Chair with uncertainty due to COVID-19.

“Usually we have an idea of what we need and where and when it’ll be,” Bold said. “It’s hard to go to people and ask for it when we don’t know.”

Encore’s events usually run throughout the summer. A revised schedule only has events in July and August in the hopes that at least small public gatherings will be allowed.

The slate includes the fourth annual PorchFest (Aug. 8) and StrawFest Day (Aug. 22). Other events include fine art shows and an artist in residence that teaches youth classes.

PorchFest sees bands play on the porches of homes in the village. StrawFest involves sculptors making works of art out of straw over two weeks and putting them on display for the public in a competition format.

Bold and Encore usually spend this time preparing for events, many of which take place downtown on the site of Mt. Morris’ old college campus.

“The whole thing is a little strange,” Bold said.

“We’re very summer-focused on these events and

time he’s spent working on logistics since the outset of the pandemic. It’s the busiest part of his job, he said.

Much of the rest of his time has been spent brainstorming ways that the events could be social distancing and health guideline-friendly.

PorchFest, for example, usually has people gathering to watch the bands.

StrawFest is an event that could be particularly social distancing-friendly if state guidelines need it to be, Bold said.

The sculptures could be put along the road where people could drive by to see them.

Bold doesn’t believe that the pandemic will deter people from coming out once it’s allowed.

“I don’t think there will be an impact,” Bold said. “But we don’t know. Hopefully we move past it and we’re back up and flying. People will be hungry to be here, I think. I’m 65, I get the scare of it. We’re being really safe about things.”

Bold sees the value in Encore events for the Mt. Morris downtown area and the village as a whole.

The straw events have brought between 5,000 and 6,000 people each year. He hopes at least a part of that will come this summer.

“We’re trying to still do what we want to do with the community with our mission of creating a destination for rural arts,” Bold said. “There’s still things we can do in a challenging time.”

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Encore! Mt. Morris is busy rescheduling events

11

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 15, 2020

| CHURCH NEWS

12

ADELINE ZION EVANGELICAL CHURCH 9106 Cedar St. in Adeline Phone 815-541-4863

BAILEYVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH

303 W. Franklin St., Baileyville Pastor Gary Branam www.baileyvillebaptistchurch.org

BAILEYVILLE REFORMED CHURCH

400 W. Center St., Baileyville Pastor Bruce Otto 815-235-1201

BROOKVILLE & ELKHORN UNITED METHODIST CHURCHES

Brookville: 17725 W. Chamber St. in Brookville Elkorn: Corner of Wilson Mill & Brick Church Roads

CHANA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 606 Main St., Chana Pastor Matt Smith 815-732-7683 chanaumc@gmail.com

CHRIST OUR SAVIOR LUTHERAN CHURCH

2035 Ill. Rt. 26, Dixon 815-284-4554 Pastor David Andermann 815-632-6767

OPEN BIBLE

302 S. Franklin St., Polo Luke Schier, Pastor 815-946-2848 PoloOpenBible.org

CROSSROADS COMMUNITY CHURCH Polo Campus

EAST OREGON CHAPEL CHURCH OF GOD

107 N. Daysville Rd., Oregon Pastor John Guthrie 815-732-2960 or 815-732-6569

EBENEZER REFORMED CHURCH

FORRESTON REFORMED CHURCH

EMMANUEL EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH

FREEDOM LUTHERAN CHURCH, ELCA

2997 N. German Church Rd. Rev. Josiah Youngquist.

815-732-6313 www.ebenezerreformed.com

764 N. Stillman Road, Oregon (Payne’s Point) Pastor Andrew Kayes 815-732-2424

EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH OF MT. MORRIS 102 S. Seminary St., Mt. Morris Senior Pastor Bruce McKanna Associate Pastor Logan Murphy 815-734-4942 www.efcmm.org office@efcmm.org

FAITH DISCOVERY CHURCH 801 W. Oregon St., Polo Pastor Jeremy Heller 815-946-3588

501 Third Ave. Pastor Lyle Zumdahl 815-938-2424 lylezumdahl@gmail.com

Pastor Karyn Kost 815-661-6315 www.freedomlutheran.org.

GERMAN VALLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

FAITH EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH

402 Second Ave., Forreston Pastor Scott Ralston Church 815-938-3203

FAITH UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 702 E. Dixon St., Polo Pastor Brian LeBaron 815-946-3212 faithumcpolo

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

DISCIPLES UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (USA)

505 Hill St., Oregon Pastor David Snow 815-732-2642 www.fbcoregon.org

200 S. Fifth St., Oregon Rev. Karen Gerhard Conner 815-732-2894 www.fpcoregon.com

EAST JORDAN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 402 First Ave., Forreston Pastor Sung-Eun Kim 815-938-2380

860 W. Oregon Trail Rd. Pastor Michael Hoffman 815-732-6847

OREGON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC CHURCH

200 S. Fourth, Oregon Rev. Megan Smick 815-732-2994 oregonumc@outlook.com

PINE CREEK CHRISTIAN CHURCH 5076 S. Lowell Park Rd. Pastor Charlotte Hoppe 815-946-3949

POLO CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN

GRACE VALLEY CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH

PRAIRIE DELL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

8210 E. Edwardsville Rd., German Valley Pastor Eric Schlukebir 815-362-6601 6941 N. Mt. Morris Rd., Leaf River Pastor Billy Hardy 815-738-2205 leafriverbc@gmail.com

ST. WENDELIN CATHOLIC CHURCH 18 S. Linn St., Shannon Rev. Michael Bolger 815-864-2548

SAUK VALLEY SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH

SILVER CREEK REFORMED CHURCH

609 S. 10th St., Oregon Craig Arnold, Pastor 812-236-1213

ST. BRIDE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

LIGHTHOUSE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

ST. JAMES LUTHERAN CHURCH

10384 W. Coffman Rd., Forreston Pastor Mark Phillips Church: 815-938-2194 Pastor’s Cell: 760-550-4563

114 S. Fifth St., Oregon 815-732-2367

RIVERSTONE CHRISTIAN CHURCH

104 E. Rt. 72, Leaf River Pastor Sung-Eun Kim 815-345-3038

NORTH GROVE EVANGELICAL CHURCH

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH

16032 W. Coffman Rd., Shannon 815-864-2448

LEAF RIVER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

409 W. Brayton Rd, P.O. Box 2055 Mt. Morris, IL 61054 Pastor Ginny Haney Phone: 815-734-4573

213 N. Franklin Ave., Polo Father Joseph P. Naill 815-946-2535

416 Prospect St., Dixon John Lewis, Pastor 815-677-9199

1000 Ill. 64 West Oregon Rev. Eldred George 815-732-7211 www.saintbrides.org saint.bride.church@gmail.com

4938 S. Daysville Rd., Oregon Pastor Matt Smith

ST. MARY CHURCH 301 N. Fourth St., Oregon Father Joseph P. Naill Office Phone 815-732-7383 Office FAX 815-732-4742

Congress Ave. & Webster St. Pastor Leslie Lake PoloCob@risebroadband.net

MT. MORRIS CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN

102 N. Maple St., Mt. Morris Pastor Julie Bunt 815-734-4853 www.disciplesumc.org

OREGON CHURCH OF GOD

Church and Main Streets Pastor Don Plock

LEAF RIVER BAPTIST CHURCH

205 N. Jefferson Ave., Polo Pastor Chris Bradshaw 815-837-5255 polo@crossroadscn.com www.crossroadscn.com

22027 Polo Rd., Sterling Jim Miller, Pastor 815-626-0104

FORRESTON GROVE CHURCH

7246 N. Freeport Rd., Forreston Presbyterian Church in America Pastor Drew Jones 815-938-3605 www.forrestongrovechurch.com

6024 N. Columbine Rd., Forreston Rev. Karyn Kost 815-661-6315 pastorofstjames1850@gmail.com

ST. MARK’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

201 N. Division Ave., Polo Pastor Terrie Wilder 815-946-2919

326 S. Bunker Hill Rd. German Valley Pastor Grant Mulder 815-362-2129

TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 308 E. Brayton Mt. Morris Pastor Josh Ehrler 815-734-6354 trinitymmil@frontier.com www.trinitymmil.net

VAN BROCKLIN-FLORENCE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3582 Bolton Rd.., Freeport Pastor Dawn Barr 815-291-0601

WEST BRANCH CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN 4014 West Branch Rd., Forreston 815-938-2586

How to submit church news Changes in church listings and articles about special church services and events can be emailed to news@oglecountynews.com.

For more information call 815-732-6166 ext. 2591.

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REGIONAL COVID-19 ISSUE

BY KATHLEEN A. SCHULTZ Shaw Media

Michael Krabbenhoeft/Shaw Media

ABOVE: Kevin Promenschenkel, owner of Poopy’s Pub n’ Grub in Savanna, stands at the ordering window for the outdoor dining area. BELOW: Tables in the outdoor dining area at Poopy’s were spaced so customers could respect a six foot social distance.

on their business premises met with any resistance from the local health department,” the suit said.

When the county “did not find it necessary to take action against Poopy’s,” that’s when the Illinois Liquor Control Commission stepped in, DeVore said in the suit.

Carroll County Health Department Administrator Craig Beintema could not be reached for comment as of press time.

“Please be advised that your establishment is unlawfully operating amidst a declared limitation on services that is necessary and proper to prevent further spreading of the COVID-19 pathogen,” said the ceaseand-desist order, which Promenschenkel posted on the bar’s Facebook page.

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Poopy’s Pub & Grub is suing Gov. JB Pritzker, saying he lacks the statutory authority to issue executive orders putting restrictions on businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, and therefore a cease-and-desist order issued to the biker bar as a result of such an order should be voided.

In addition, only the Carroll County Health Department, acting through the Illinois Department of Public Health, has the “supreme authority” vested by the constitution to shut a business down for health code violations, and it has not done so, says the suit, filed on May 11 in Carroll County Circuit Court by Greenville attorney Thomas DeVore, who represents Poopy’s owners Peggy and Kevin Promenschenkel.

DeVore also represents state Rep. Darren Bailey, R-Xenia, who also is challenging Pritzker’s authority to issue successive 30-day disaster proclamations.

The restaurant and bar, a popular destination for motorcyclists throughout the region, does the bulk of its business during the riding season.

It opened for curbside delivery May 1, and was shut down on May 6 for allowing patrons to eat and drink beverages, including beer, “on premises” – in this case, outdoors at tables spaced 10 feet apart.

Should the health department have shut Poopy’s down for health code violations, there would have been measures Promenschenkel could take to appeal the action; under the emergency declaration, those measures don’t exist, which is a violation of his due process rights, the suit said.

Not only has it not investigated Poopy’s relative to this incident, “at no time has any of Poopy’s activities

and authority of state public health officials, the governor of the state of Illinois has ordered that on premises consumption cease at establishments serving food and beverages.”

Poopy’s is not shut down: The bar and restaurant portion remains open Friday through Sunday for curbside service, carry-out and delivery, as is allowed under the order.

Why the ILCC involvement?

“By statute the ILCC has authority to take action on the state liquor license of an establishment found to be unlawfully operating,” commission spokesman Terry Horstman said in an email. “So if this establishment is selling alcohol in a manner not allowed under the current stay-athome order, the ILCC would issue a cease-and-desist order.

“The cease-and-desist order affords a licensed liquor establishment the opportunity to come into compliance before the ILCC moves forward with due process which, in this type of instance, could include imposition of a fine, or revocation or suspension of the establishment’s state liquor license issued by the ILCC.” Per the executive order, “All license holders authorized by the State Commission and local liquor control commissions to sell alcoholic liquor, non-alcoholic liquor and food at retail for consumption off the licensed premises may conduct ‘in-person’ sales on a ‘to go’ basis only but not for the consumption on the licensed premises.”

Promenschenkel said he has since moved the tables off premises – to a wooded site behind the building that also belongs to him, but has a different address than the bar. It is up a hill accessible by a gravel road.

“It does not make us happy, but we are back to serving,” he said in the post. “We are going to simplify some food items to get it out to you quicker so you can get up the hill.”

REGIONAL NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Poopy’s sues, claims executive orders are unlawful

13

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 15, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

14

SPECIAL EVENT

Biking event to take place Memorial Day weekend Bikers and runners will hit checkpoints at local landmarks

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com White Pelican Canoe, Kayak and Bike Rental is hosting a free exercise event over Memorial Day weekend that will highlight local art and history in Oregon.

Participants in the Oregon Alley Cat will be biking or running throughout Oregon where they’ll

have to take selfies at each checkpoint. The first 10 participants to complete the challenge will receive a $10 gift card to the Oregon restaurant of their choice.

Dominic Cozzi is the chief organizer of the event and hopes it will help give people a safe and healthy way to spend the weekend during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’ve had a couple different ideas for bike routes that go in town,” Cozzi said. “Now we’re taking this opportunity to do it while people can’t come together.

It’s super important that people get

outdoors.”

Cozzi asks that people be cautious and respect social distancing guidelines. There is no assigned course.

Participants must just reach each checkpoint and share it with Oregon Alley Cat organizers over Facebook Messenger or on the event page.

“You’ll be full of endorphins, looking good and helping local businesses thrive during this socially isolating time,” Cozzi said.

Checkpoints include the Riverside Cemetery Gravestone of Oregon pioneer John Phelps, the Park

West Solar Reef statue by Andrew Langoussis, the Mix Park Statue Paths of Conviction by Jeff Adams, the Oregon Train Depot on Collins Street and the Park East Statue From the Rivers Come My Bounty

by Ray Kobald.

“The hope is that people come in and see the special little corners of Oregon,” Cozzi said.

Event organizers suggest starting and ending at Conover Square Mall where there’s plenty of parking and views and photo opportunities of the Rock River dam.

A recommended nine-mile route connecting the checkpoints has been built.

STATUE UPDATE

Black Hawk unveiling postponed before COVID-19 Historic statue may need additional work

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com The scheduled May 2 Black Hawk statue unveiling ceremony was cancelled, but not due to COVID-19.

Scaffolding was removed from the statue early this year and many believed it was finished after a yearslong restoration process. Engineers conducted an inspection afterwards and concluded that it was “90-95 percent” done and touch up work would be required, Jan Stilson, Chairman of the Black Hawk Area Restoration and Development Committee, and Oregon Mayor Ken Williams said.

“More concrete work needs to be done,” Williams said. “It may use a lift truck or scaffolding again. It’s up to the conservators. It’d be inappropriate to have a grand unveiling and then touch up started afterwards.

The touch up costs are already covered in the contract for the repairs.”

Lowden State Park was one of 20 in the state that was allowed to reopen on May 1. Visitors can now go and get a look at the landmark statue.

Stilson said she plans to go and see how the winter treated Black Hawk.

Stilson also said that an April 30 fundraiser to raise money for the statue’s upkeep was rescheduled to Aug. 5 due to COVID-19. Donors played a large part in getting the statue to where it is now.

Back when the scaffolding was removed, Stilson said she noticed some touch up work that could be done. She said she’s interested to see how the concrete will cure over the summer.

“There’s some damage to the old concrete in the front of the blanket,” Stilson said. “They did some sandblasting to blend the new patch with the old. On the left elbow there’s a ledge left by the mold.”

It is unknown what or when touch up work will be done on the statue.

A call placed to the Illinois Conservation Foundation, the organization in charge of the restoration, was not returned.

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

The Black Hawk Statue is located in Lowden State Park that reopened on Friday, May 1.

SCHEDULE CHANGES Two Ogle County meetings cancelled Due to recommendations of the Ogle County Health Department, the regular monthly meetings of the Ogle County Regional Planning Commission scheduled for Thursday, May 21 and the Ogle County Zoning Board

of Appeals scheduled for Thursday, May 28 have been cancelled.

The next Regional Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, June 18 at the Old Ogle County Court House, First Floor Conference Room #100, 105 S. Fifth St.

The next Zoning Board of Appeals meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, June 25 at the Old Ogle County Courthouse, Third Floor County Board Room #317, 105 S. Fifth St. Call Harry Adams at 815-732-1190 for more information.

Special Event

15 OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Wave Parade a hit at Pinecrest It was a perfect spring day for a “Wave Parade” on Tuesday in celebration of National Skilled Nursing Care Week at Pinecrest Manor in Mt. Morris.

Pinecrest Manor residents were socially distanced along sidewalks while families and community members drove by to greet residents with waves and cheers.

Some participants decorated their vehicles and made signs to brighten residents’ day.

• Friday, May 15, 2020

Michael Krabbenhoeft/Shaw Media

ABOVE: A woman waves at a Pinecrest resident as she holds a sign that reads “I Miss You!”. BELOW CENTER: First responders and the fire department’s antique fire truck were part of the Wave Parade. BELOW BOTTOM: Kids look through a cloud of bubbles from the tailgate of a truck during the parade. BOTTOM RIGHT: A sign on the back of a Jeep said “Hi Mom We Love You”. Sunny skies and warm temperatures greeted residents on Tuesday afternoon.

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 15, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

16

COVID-19 & SCHOOLS

Teachers drive up for thanks, and three free tacos Lunch was part of Teacher Appreciation Week May 4-8

BY EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@oglecountynews.com Twenty-five Oregon High School teachers and staff received a free “drive-thru” lunch from a local restaurant on May 6.

“I’m very appreciative,” said Dane Bell, a math teacher who drove to the Blackhawk Center on his bike.

The event, organized by school administrators, was in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week. Oregon Elementary School teachers and staff were served on May 5 and David L. Rahn Junior High teachers and staff got their free lunches on May 7.

Wednesday’s lunch was three tacos, chips and salsa from Oregon restaurant, Hector’s Cocina.

Faculty and staff were able to pullup to the entrance of the Blackhawk Center where the lunches were staged on a table with serving starting at 11:30 a.m.

“The meals have everything they need to construct their own taco,” said Principal Heidi Deininger who greeted each teacher who drove up in their car, or bike, to receive the lunch.

“Thank you so much for what you do,” Deininger said as she handed out the lunches.

Band director and teacher Andy Eckardt pulled into the drive to get his lunch noting that he and his family were doing well.

“We’re holding up and I’ve been checking in with my students making sure they are holding up,” Eckardt said. “My children haven’t torn

TOP LEFT: Dane Bell picks up his lunch from Heidi Deininger, principal at Oregon High School. TOP RIGHT: Oregon High School math teacher Angela Nordman holds her new puppy, Benton, as she and her fiancée pick up lunch at the Blackhawk Center. BELOW: Hector’s Cocina provided the lunches. Each container had three tacos, chips, and salsa including all toppings to construct their own taco. A note on the lid said “Thank You” from the owners and “Muchas Gracias for being nacho average teacher!”. each other up yet. We just need to keep positive and keep everybody going.”

Bell agreed. “We’re doing OK. We’re missing the kids, but were doing what we can. Some of my students have admitted that they do miss school. But the calendar goes on and the world keeps spinning.”

Math teacher Angela Nordman, made the trip to the school with her fiancée, Jarrett Reynolds, and their new puppy, Benton.

“We’re doing the best we can,” Nordman said. “Benton has been in some of the videos I’ve done for the students.”

Reynolds was ready to assist the high school baseball team, but has

instead been helping construct the new press box and storage field next the baseball field.

“I was supposed to be the assistant coach, but that got cut short,” Reynolds said. “We’ve been working on the box and shed and we’re just about done.”

Nordman and Reynolds, who are both OHS graduates, are supposed to be married in October. That date is still on the books, technically.

“We’re in a holding pattern,” said Nordman. “Our venue is only doing cancellations on a month-to-month basis. They won’t let us reschedule so we’re going ahead and planning like we will have it anyway.”

YOUR ENVIRONMENT

Rockford Wild Ones to host an online program Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wild Ones Rock River Valley Chapter will present online program venues to the public.

On Thursday, May 21, at 7 p.m., Nathan Kutok and Ben Davies will present the program, “Amphibians and reptiles found in natural habitats of Northern Illinois,” with an emphasis on habitat associations, relative distribution, and local conservation efforts.

Kutok will attend Southern Illinois University

– Carbondale this fall, majoring in wildlife biology and conservation. He has assisted with several regional herpetofaunal inventories, assisted the McHenry County Conservation District in a survey of smooth green snakes, and is doing a study on the ecology and distribution of crayfish snakes. He is on the seasonal stewardship staff of the Boone County Conservation District.

Davis is a junior at the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point, majoring in forestry-ecosystem

restoration and management, with a focus on botany, plant ecology, and ecosystem restoration.

He has interned with Citizens for Conservation in Barrington and also has worked as a seasonal employee for the Boone County Conservation District.

For information about this program or how to link to the video, contact Jerry Paulson at 815222-4414. Go to wildonesrrvc.org to see upcoming Wild Ones programs or for more information.

OGLE COUNTY SHERIFF

May 5 At 4:48 p.m., deputies responded to the intersection of Flagg Road and Skare Road for an injury accident. Upon arrival,

it was determined that William Bishop, 52, of Stillman Valley, failed to yield at the intersection and was struck broadside by a car driven by Adrian Daughtery, 26 of Dixon.

Both drivers and the passenger of Bishop’s car, Marcia Kelly, 58 of Stillman

Valley, were taken by Rochelle Ambulance to Rochelle Community Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

Bishop was cited for failing to yield at a stop intersection.

May 9

Teodoro Jimenez, 20, of Freeport, was arrested on an outstanding Ogle County warrant for driving while license suspended following a traffic stop.

Jimenez was given a $1,000 recognizance bond and a return court date of June 3 at 9 a.m.

OREGON POLICE Oregon Police Chief Shawn Melville reports the following police activity.

May 1 At 10:20 a.m., police investigated traffic crash in the drive-through area of the Central Bank where a 2004 Chevrolet driven by Zackery A. Letcher, 25, of Dixon, struck a pillar. No citations were issued.

May 2 At 2:22 p.m., police were investigating a hit and run that had occurred at some point between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the parking lot of the Dollar General Store, located at 1050 Pines Road, in Oregon.

A 2007 white Toyota Camry belonging to Shelby R. Hummel, 24, of Oregon, was struck by an unknown vehicle, that left blue paint transfer and the impression of a bumper sticker for the Illinois Sheriff’s Association on Hummel’s vehicle.

Anyone with any information of this incident, please contact the Oregon Police Department at 815-732-2162.

May 7 At 6:36 p.m., police responded to a domestic disturbance call in the 700 block of E. Washington Street, resulting in the arrest of Taylor R. Young, 22, of Oregon, for domestic battery. Young was transported to the Ogle County Jail.

May 8 At 11:11 a.m., police responded to a domestic disturbance call in the 300 block of S. 2nd Street, resulting in the arrest of Lamarcus A. Fulson, 20, of Rockford, for domestic battery and interfering with the reporting of a domestic battery. Fulson was transported to the Ogle County Jail.

Please note: Any arrests listed are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Eleven parking citations and five

verbal warnings issued from April 27 through May 10.

General calls for service through dispatch April 27-May 10 Checking a Subject / Vehicle...........12 Citizen Complaints.............................18 Citizen Assist / Civil Problem.......... 10 Assist EMS / Other Dept.................. 10 Disturbance / Dom Battery............... 5 Lockout Vehicle / Building..................1 Alarm Response....................................1 Ordinance Violations..........................14 Traffic Stops......................................... 3 911 Hang-up / Open Line.................... 2

Ogle County property transfers recorded week of May 1-7: Warranty Deeds • New Leaf Homes LLC to William and Tammy Schnidt, 933 White Birch Lane, Davis Junction, $181,622.

• Roderick R. and Maria K. Freidel to Scott E. and Amber D. Swanson, 4422 E. Open View Drive, Byron, $293,000 • Thomas E. Hanlin and Rick T. Snodgrass to Neil L. and Stephanie M. Wills, 2430 E. State Route 72 and one parcel in Byron, $167,000.

• JBM Hammer LLC to Ag Products Co., 805 W. Lighthouse Road and two farmland parcels in Oregon, $3,469,680.

• JBM Hammer LLC to Joe Ludwig LLC, 815 W. Lighthouse Road, Oregon, $56,000.

• Jeffrey D. Wagner and Shelly R. Williams to Lawrence and Kimberly Walton, 306 W. Fourth St., Leaf River, $0.

• Scott E. and Amber D. Swanson to Richard A. Nelson Jr., one parcel and 5040 E. Brooke Court, Byron, $240,500.

• Ryan and Christy Howell to Abbie K. and Keynon T. Janicke, 8091 N. Ryan Circle, Byron, $181,000.

• 935 Blackhawk LLC to Byron Legacy Properties LLC, 935 W. Blackhawk Road, Byron, $300,000.

• Gary L. Asher to Byron Legacy Properties LLC, 531 N. Luther Drive, two parcels at 617 N. Allison Circle, one parcel at Luther Drive, 217 S. Franklin St., nine parcels at 134 W. Third St., Byron, 351 N. Chestnut St., and 520 N. Luther Drive, Byron, $1,950,000.

• Lisa D. Schroeder, also Bogie, to Andrew K. Bush, 301 S. Seventh St., Oregon, $45,000.

• James P. and Louise M. Moore to David T. and Paula Turner, 1212 Lakeland Drive, Rochelle, $182,000.

• Hawthorn Holdings LLC to Applewood Lawn and Landscape LLC, 915 S. Division Ave., Polo, $160,000.

• Loni Slothower to Julian R. and Sarah E. Sills, 411 E. Colden St., Polo, $44,075.

• Austin and Chelsey Stolte to Holly S. Fink, 822 N. Ninth St., Rochelle, $86,000.

• Lane M. Hollonbeck to Marisol Martinez Esparza, 401 N. Woolf Court, Rochelle, $67,000.

• Dustin W.G. Kammes to Travis J. and Michelle B. Brown, 310 W. North St., Creston, $114,900.

• Ruth A. Peterson to James and Loretta Kellen, 312 Knollwood Dr., Dixon, $187,000.

• Shawn P. and Mary E. Schmitz to One Rental Holdings LLC, 310 W. Fourth

St., Byron, $0.

Quit Claim Deeds • Jennifer M. Schneider, also Lascola, to Jacob A. Schneider, 1165 Lincoln Hwy., Rochelle, $0.

• Kimberly N. Moses, also Johnson, to Bradley S. Johnson, 104 N. Sixth St., Oregon, $0.

• Joseph Leo Reising II to Joseph Leo Reising II and Muhamet Ajvazi, 308 E. Washington St. Oregon, $0.

Trustee’s Deeds • Robert D. and Jo Marie Branson Trust, Robert D. and Jo Marie Branson, trustees, to Patricia J. Brown Trust 2016, 500 Mill Ridge Road, Byron, $124,000.

• Eubanks Family Trust, Kenneth E. and Carol L. Eubanks, trustees, to Kathy and Timothy M. Mayo, 115 N. Division Ave., Polo, $20,000.

• Mordan Family Revocable Living Trust, Mark W. and Karen A. Mordan, trustees, to Wendell E. and Dolores J. Horst, 2834 W. Oregon Trail Road, Oregon, $380,000.

• John B. Franklin Living Trust given Trust 20091, Leslie A. Sadowski, trustee, to Kristi A. Gile, 402 S. Sunbeam Court, Stillman Valley, $183,500.

• Signe L. Eber Trust, Marcia L.

Massie, trustee, to Paul D. Harrison, 426 N. 11th St. and 425 N. 12th St., Rochelle, $0.

• Signe L. Eber Trust, Marcia L. Massie, trustee, to Jason E. Beck, 427 N. 12th St., Rochelle, $0.

• Greenfield Family Trust 116, Gary L. and Lori A. Greenfield, trustees, to Alex and Samantha Geeves, 205 Century Hill Drive, Oregon, $252,000.

• Donna K. Tilton Declaration Trust, Donna K. Tilton, trustee, to Mary Parson and Linda Luciani, 15626 E. Twombly Road, Rochelle, $240,000.

• George L. and Sandra K. Brown Revocable Living Trust, George L. Brown, trustee, to Jordan T. Stinnett, 10956 E. South Woodlawn Drive, Rochelle, $162,000.

Sheriff’s Deed • Sheriff of Ogle County and David Karas, Angela Domenick, Janet and Donald E. Ross, and Ross Property Trust, trustee, to Christiana Trust, Wilmington Savings Fund Society, trustee, Pretium Mortgage Acquisition Trust and Isanthes LLC, 5481 N. River Road, Byron, $70,400.

Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office

• Friday, May 15, 2020

PROPERTY TRANSFERS

17 OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle reports the following activity

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 15, 2020

| REGIONAL NEWS

18

CRIME UPDATE

Infamous embezzler seeking a compassionate release from federal prison, cites COVID-19

Former Dixon comptroller files motion raising health concerns about pandemic

BY KATHLEEN A. SCHULTZ

Shaw Media Dixon’s former city comptroller Rita Crundwell is asking for compassionate release from Pekin federal prison – and to be returned to her family in Dixon – because of her fear of contracting COVID-19 given a wide range of health issues.

“I know at my sentencing you felt I was not given a death sentence with my projected age of release of 77, but now with my deteriorating health condition, and the danger of the COVID-19 pandemic, I feel I have been given a death sentence,” Crundwell wrote in a 7-and-a-half page handwritten request to Judge Philip Reinhard, filed April 27 in federal court in Rockford.

In his response, filed April 29, Reinhard said that, per statute, Crundwell can file a motion seeking compassionate release after she “has fully exhausted all administrative rights to appeal a failure of the Bureau of Prisons to bring a motion on the defendant’s behalf or the lapse of 30 days from the receipt of such a request by the warden of the defendant’s facility.”

Crundwell said she had filed such a request with the warden at Pekin on April 22 and was awaiting a response. She asked Reinhard for a reduction in her sentence so that she will have served half, or compassionate release if the warden denies her request.

A federal defender was appointed to represent her. That attorney has until May 15 to file documentation that Crundwell has exhausted all administrative avenues, along with her medical records and other pertinent information upon which Reinhard will base his decision, federal court records show.

The judge will file his ruling by June 5; the defense will have until June 26 to file its response.

Reinhard sentenced Crundwell on Feb. 14, 2013, to 17 years and 5 months for wire fraud.

Crundwell stole close to $54 million over 20 years from the town she lived in her entire life – and under the noses of people she had worked with since high school, and who considered her a close friend.

It was the biggest municipal theft in U.S. history.

In her letter, Crundwell cites several reasons she believes meets the criteria for a compassionate release. They include her age, 67; health issues; her status as a model, minimum-security prisoner, which already has shaved 5 months off her sentence; that she has learned new skills (she was a seamstress in Waseca, Minnesota her first lockup, for four years, and worked in the kitchen in Pekin for two); and can live with her brother in Dixon.

Those are among the considerations Attorney General William Barr has said must be met for a

Former Dixon comptroller Rita Crundwell, who is serving more than 17 years in federal prison for embezzling nearly $54 million from the city, is asking for compassionate release – and to be returned to her family in Dixon – because COVID-19 has put her in fear for her life. federal prisoner to be released to home confinement.

Should she be allowed to come home, she would pose no danger to the community, she wrote.

To be released because of the virus, the Bureau of Prisons has said in a memo that it is prioritizing prisoners who have served at least half of their sentences, or who have 18 months or less left and have served 25% of their sentences.

Crundwell is two years away from the 50% benchmark.

Originally set to be released March 5, 2030, her new release date is Oct. 29, 2029.

As for her health, in her letter Crundwell cites “several” issues, including “chronic hypertension, high cholesterol, chronic pain from severe scoliosis, and a pinched sciatic nerve in lower back causing constant pain and numbness to my toes.

“I had one hip replaced 8/17 in Carswell Medical Center and the doctor warned the other hip will need to be replaced due to deterioration caused by arthritis. I currently have only 56% of my kidney usage remaining due to the large amounts of ibuprofen I was prescribed for four years by the doctor in Waseca, Minnesota, for the chronic pain. …

“I also just had a mass removed April 20, 2020, from under my right arm that they were afraid might be a malignant tumor due to my long family history of cancer.”

Crundwell was arrested April 17, 2012, at Dixon

City Hall, and the story that unfolded detailed a lavish lifestyle with millions siphoned from city coffers and spent on building an international quarter horse empire, multiple homes, clothes and jewelry, all while her hometown struggled to repair roads and pay its bills.

According to the BOP Information, Policy and Public Affairs Division, Crundwell was at Waseca from June 3, 2013, to Jan. 25, 2017, when she was transferred to the Federal Medical Center in Carswell, Texas.

She was transferred to the Federal Transfer Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on April 10, 2018, and to a minimum-security satellite camp at Pekin federal prison, about two hours away from Dixon, 6 days later.

Crundwell has two surviving brothers, Ray “Doc” Humphrey Jr. and Richard Humphrey, with whom she says she would live, and two sisters, Carol Beardin and Linda Burkitt, all of Dixon. Her brother Roger Humphrey died Dec. 11; he was 77.

If released, she said she will seek employment and help her brother out around his farm in rural Dixon.

“I will be very low-keyed,” she wrote. “I am going to do everything possible to make up for my mistakes. I have taken responsibility for my actions since the first day.

“I will do anything in my power to repay the citizens of Dixon for my crime.”

A1

OGLE COUNTY NEWSPAPERS 815-625-3600 815-284-2222

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101

STATE OF ILLINOISIN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE In re the Estate of: DANIEL E. STROHECKER, 2020 P 33 Deceased.

CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of death of the DANIEL E. STROHECKER. Letters of Office were issued on April 15, 2020, to SARA MARTIN, as Independent Executor, whose attorney is M. Thomas Suits, of the Law Offices of M. THOMAS SUITS, P.C., 114 Mason West Street, Polo, Illinois61064.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 or delivery is required

by Section 5/18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 1975, as amended, whichever date is later. Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above shall be Claims barred. against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Circuit Clerk, Ogle County Center, Judicial 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: SARA MARTIN Independent Executor Law Offices of M. THOMAS SUITS, P.C.114 West Mason Street Polo, IL 61064 (815) 946-2276 tom@suits legal.com May 1, 8, 15 2020

VOLUNTEERS

126

CASA 15th Judicial Circuit (Lee/ Carroll/Ogle Counties) is seeking volunteers in the Ogle County area to advocate for children in the Ogle County court system involved in abuse and neglect cases.

Your involvement can impact a child’s future.

Contact Trisha Morrow, Executive Director (815) 288-1901 www.casaleecar roll.com

BUSINESS PROPERTY

205

Building for lease: apx., 4200 sq. ft., laydown area apx 2 acres, (2) 12'x 14' OHD shop area & office.

815-626-8790

FOR SALE

BY OWNER

209

House for Sale 414 E Lincoln, Mt Morris Illinois 3 bed,1 bath, full unfinished basement. $89,000 Owned by Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County Call Gail at 815-494-2114 or visit habitat oglecounty.org Equal Housing Opportunity

SELL those unwanted items with the help of the Classifieds!

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WANT TO BUY 795 Local Buyer Pays Cash 4 Gold, Silver, Coins, Estate Gold, Single Earrings, Antiques, etc. 24/7 779-245-2950

MISCELLANEOUS 796 FOR SALE See More Online Photos, Commerce, Expanded Text

➛Look for WEB ID ➛Log on to: www.saukvalley. com classifieds MOBILE HOMES ➛Enter the WEB ID 315 FOR RENT in the WEB ID Box ➛View Photos, CHILD CARE 512 Expanded Text BUY ONLINE!!

NO INDIVIDUAL, saukvalley.com unless licensed or CLASSIFIEDS holding a permit as a childcare facility, L / IVESTOCK may cause to be 840 published any ad- SUPPLIES vertisement soliciting a child care DISABLED service.* A childLIVESTOCK care facility that is WANTED licensed or operatTop Prices Paid ing under a permit issued by the IlliCall toll free 815-871-2697 nois Department of SCHAAP Children and FamiLIVESTOCK ly Services may publish advertisements of the ser- MOTORCYCLES 935 vices for which it is lispecifically 2010 Hyosung censed or issued a GV250 motorcycle. permit. Sauk Valley $1,300 Media strongly 815-441-2644 urges any parent or guardian to verify the validity of the license of any facility before placing a child in it's care. *Family homes that care for no more than three (3) children under the age of twelve or which receive only children from a single household, for less than 24 hours per day, are exempt from licensure as day care homes.

The three children to whom this exemption applies includes the family's natural or adopted children and any other persons under the age of 12 whether related or Call today to place unrelated to the operator of the day an ad 815-625-3600 care home. (DCFS 815-284-2222 Rule, Part 377.3 www.oglecountynews.com (c))

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• Friday, May 15, 2020

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LEGAL NOTICES

www.oglecountynews.com

Sometimes it really is as simple as black & white.

CLASSIFIEDS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Classified advertising

19

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 15, 2020

| CLASSIFIEDS

20

A2 Find Crossword Answers in today’s classifieds

SUDOKU PUZZLE

Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.

BEWARE OF INTERNET PUPPY SCAMS!

Visit the American Kennel Club website (www.akc.org) for tips on how to avoid getting scammed and to find a responsible dog breeder.

If you have been the victim of a scam, report it to your local authorities and your local BBB (www.bbb.org)

Astrograph Be receptive, but not gullible. Listen to an offer, consider the information that is valuable to you and apply what you can to reach your goals as the year progresses. Recognize that your glass is half full, not half empty, and trust in your ability to succeed.

FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- Do some fact-finding. Be aware of the changes going on around you and stick to the rules and regulations. Be part of the solution, not part of the problem.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- Truth matters, and trust must be earned, not bought. Take pride in the way you conduct yourself and avoid getting trapped in regrettable circumstances.

Backtracking won’t be easy.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- Stretch your mind and your plans. It’s time to explore what’s available and how you can use your skills to get ahead. Changing times mean altering the way you do things.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -Be careful with investments, joint ventures and matters that can affect your health and well-being. Sit tight and observe. Time is on your side. Concentrate on physical fitness and health.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept.

22) -- Keep busy, and don’t

get into a spat with a loved one. Problems will escalate if you act on information that isn’t verified. Make adjustments to protect yourself against loss.

concerns will lead to a change at home. Comfort is one thing, but convenience is what counts. A lifestyle change will lead to some free cash.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -- Pick up information and skills that will prepare you for the future. Insight into trends will help you make a wise decision. Pay attention to your health and personal needs.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) -- Don’t take chances with your health or possessions. Be direct, thorough and ready to say no to anyone pressuring you to go against your better judgment.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -- Make changes at home that are conducive to expanding one of your interests. A change in the way you live or do things will add to your comfort and entertainment.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- Consider how best to deal with some controversy that sprouts.

Investigate what you hear to verify that the information is valid before you make a decision or respond.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Time spent addressing personal

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) -- Emotions will surface around personal topics.

Don’t share sensitive information with others or get involved in a joint money venture. Discipline will be necessary to avoid health concerns. Trust issues are apparent.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- Stick to your plan and take responsibility for your actions. Be smart regarding the information you share.

Don’t give the wrong impression or say something you might regret. ©2020 UFS

Searching for a job

SHOULDN’T BE THIS COMPLICATED.

The Classifieds make it easy to find the right job!

Oregon Republican Reporter Mt. Morris Times Tri-County Press Forreston Journal

www.oglecountynews.com