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FROM THE CEO’S DESK
John Rung
On Aug. 6, the Rochelle NewsLeader, Ogle County Life, Mendota Reporter and Amboy News ceased publication. Like many of you, we at Shaw Media felt the loss deeply. Local newspapers are a vital part of the fabric of a community, and when they go silent, something important goes missing.
That’s why I’m proud to share that Shaw Media has acquired the rights to publish these papers. Beginning with this edition on Aug. 27, they will once again serve the readers and communities that rely on them.
I want to be candid: We are working hard and moving quickly to bring these
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
First Fridays Open Mic is Sept. 5
The First Fridays Open Mic presents its monthly show at the Oregon VFW on Friday, Sept. 5. This indoor event attracts many talented performers, but musicians and singers of all skill levels find acceptance from its supportive audience.
The show starts at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, although a jar is available for donations. Performers can sign up for time slots on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s best to arrive by 6 p.m. or earlier. Interested parties who have questions can contact Jerry Tice at 815-449-2660.
The VFW is located at 1310 W. Washington St. in Oregon. It provides ample parking, along with the availability of a restaurant and bar within the building. A fish fry runs from 4-8 p.m.
–JeffHelfrich
WHERE IT’S AT
publications back. In these first issues, you may notice that some of the content or presentation is still taking shape. The News-Leader, Life and Reporter resume publishing this week. The Amboy News will restart in the next few weeks. Please bear with us – we are committed to improving coverage and presentation in short order.
Most importantly, we want to assure you that your subscriptions will continue to be honored. In addition, readers will now benefit from expanded digital coverage of their communities through our website, ShawLocal.com. This means more timely updates, more photographs, and more ways to stay connected to the stories that matter most.
Shaw Media has a long tradition of local journalism. Our company was founded in nearby Dixon in 1851, and over the past 174 years, we have grown
to serve dozens of communities across Illinois and Iowa. In 2023 and 2024, we welcomed nine Northern Illinois radio stations into the fold. What has never changed is our commitment to being a trusted, local news source and an active, engaged member of the communities we serve.
We look forward to working with readers, advertisers and community leaders in Rochelle, Ogle County and Mendota. We plan to be here for the long haul – as stewards of these publications, partners in your communities and believers in the power of local news.
Thank you for welcoming us into your homes once again. Together, we will write the next chapter for these newspapers.
•JohnRungisthepresidentandCEO of Shaw Media.
ON THE COVER
On Jan. 6, the Monroe Township Fire Protection District began staffing its station from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to better service residents and improve response times. The move was made due to an increasing number of calls for service during working hours, when many paid on-call members are unavailable due to their career commitments. See story on page 3. Photo by Jeff Helfrich
CORRECTIONS
Accuracy is important to Ogle County Life. Please call errors to our attention by email at news@oglecountynews.com.
HOW ARE WE DOING?
We want to hear from you. Email us your thoughts at feedback@shawmedia.com.
Photo provided by Lowell Harp
Jerry Tice (center) performed at last month’s First Friday. Tim Laurence, on banjo, (left) and Larry Wallace, on dobro, backed him up.
Monroe Center Fire adopts new staffing model
Ogle County town made the change because of increasing number of calls for service
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Monroe Township Fire Protection District has seen success with a new daytime fire and emergency medical services staffing model since January, Deputy Chief Richard Wilson said Aug. 4.
On Jan. 6, the station began staffing from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to better service its residents and improve response times, with plans to possibly expand to seven-day coverage in the future. The move was made due to an increasing number of calls for service during working hours, when many paid on-call members are unavailable due to their career commitments.
“The new staffing model has drastically helped our community through quicker response times,” Wilson said. “We are evaluating expanding right now with funding. Right now, it’s working out great, and the community is being served. We’ve seen a drastic reduction in mutual aid coming into our community to cover our town while all of our personnel are at work. The calls that we couldn’t respond to last year were in the 30th percentile. Now we’re at around the 12th percentile.”
Before the staffing change, mutual-aid companies from the area including Kirkland, Lynn Scott Rock, New Milford and Stillman were responding to more calls in Monroe Township’s coverage area.
“They were getting a lot of the burden,” Wilson said. “All of our employees are paid on-call and work jobs outside of town and were unavailable. Stillman fire has a full-time ambulance. LSR has people around during the daytime. This being an older community with no volunteers in town, we were relying on them. We’re starting to take more care of our own community.”
The Monroe Township fire district mostly responds to medical calls. From January to the end of July, it received 60 EMS calls. Last year, that number was 55 over the same period. Total calls from January through July last year was 91,
and this year it’s at 105. With the increase in calls, the new staffing model has been on-site for service three days a week.
With its proximity to Interstate 39, the Monroe Township fire district on occasion responds to serious highway incidents, and did as recently as July 26 for a two-vehicle crash with multiple injuries. One person suffered severe injuries and required helicopter transport. Wilson said responses like that wouldn’t have been possible without response from mutual-aid companies from the area.
“In the fire service, a firefighter is a firefighter,” Wilson said. “They all have the same common goals of protecting lives and saving property, in that order. You can go to another state or country and the same goal applies. It’s life safety first and then property conservation. We’re an all-hazards fire department. We respond to everything.”
On July 18, the Monroe Township fire district put a new 2024 ambulance into service, replacing a 2006 unit. The new ambulance was bought due to high maintenance costs on the older model. Wilson said the new ambulance will serve the district for the next 15 to 20 years and has upgraded technology to
aid personnel and patients such as power-loading cots and a power-assisted stair chair.
Wilson credited Monroe Township Fire Chief Scott Jaeger and EMS coordinator Capt. Michaelle Jaeger for their work on acquiring the new ambulance and putting it into service.
“The new ambulance took hours and hours to get and get put into service,” Wilson said. “It goes from evaluating what you want and what you need. The needs outweigh the wants, and it comes down to dollars and cents. Once you identify the need, you have to be forward-thinking. We read articles and learned about the newest, best technology. The chief is a good steward of taxpayers’ money, and he came up with a good proposal with the EMS coordinator, and the board approved it.”
The new ambulance saw a two-month delay in delivery due to supply chain issues, and the Monroe Township fire district worked to outfit it for two months before it was put into service. Wilson thanked taxpayers for allowing the district to purchase equipment and stay current.
The new staffing model has seen a positive response from people in the
community, Wilson said.
“One person recently called 911 for their mother, who was not feeling well,” Wilson said. “The station was staffed at the time. We pulled up, and the 911 caller told me they were going to drive themselves because they thought it would take too long for the ambulance to get there. And we pulled into the driveway, and the caller was surprised. We want the fact that we’re doing daytime staffing to get out to the community.”
Wilson previously worked as a battalion chief in a full-time fire department for 26 years in a suburb outside Chicago. He’s been with the Monroe Township fire district for about 17 years and noticed the difference in longer response times in rural communities.
“Those services, you hang up the phone and people are pulling into the driveway,” Wilson said. “Here, people were OK with 15-minute response times. We’ve almost cut that in half just with daytime help. We can be out of the station within one to three minutes. We can be at the house within six to seven minutes versus 15 to 20 minutes. People have made comments about how fast it’s been. That’s another feather in our cap of doing our job right.”
Jeff Helfrich
The Monroe Township Fire Protection District has seen success with a new daytime fire and EMS staffing model since starting it in January, Deputy Chief Richard Wilson (right) said Aug. 4. Also seen are District EMS Coordinator Capt. Michaelle Jaeger (from left), and firefighter/EMT Tyler Kilcullen.
Dixon man accused of attempted murder, attorney argue media coverage
By PAYTON FELIX pfelix@shawmedia.com
The defense attorney for a rural Dixon man charged with the attempted murder of three police officers in Ogle County is asking the court to reconsider its previous ruling regarding media coverage.
Jonathon Gounaris, 33, is charged with four counts of attempted first-degree murder, three counts of aggravated discharge of a firearm, three counts of aggravated battery and two counts of possession of a firearm without a firearm owner’s identification card – all of which stem from a June 12, 2024, standoff with police in the rural Dixon subdivision of Lost Lake. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is being held in the Winnebago County Jail in Rockford.
Gounaris appeared before Ogle County Judge John “Ben” Roe on Monday, Aug. 25, with his attorneys, William Wolf and Jack DeBacker of Wolf Criminal Law, based in Chicago.
Soon after Gounaris was arrested, the court granted extended media coverage that allows cameras to photograph those involved in the court proceedings at Gounaris’ hearings.
Wolf said he’s concerned allowing the media to take and publish “voluminous” photos of Gounaris wearing handcuffs, leg irons and a jumpsuit issued to inmates will contaminate the jury pool.
Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock disagreed.
Gounaris’ case has received “no more attention” than other “high profile cases” in the county, Rock said. “No one is being prejudice.”
Roe agreed with Rock, stating that “nothing has been out of the ordinary” with the media coverage in this case.
But Wolf disagreed and asked Roe to “stop this from becoming a perpetual perp walk court date after court date” and requested that Gounaris be allowed to participate in hearings wearing civilian clothes and without being shackled.
Rock objected, arguing that someone in custody doesn’t get “dressed out,” he said.
Roe said he wouldn’t have a problem with allowing Gounaris to attend hearings without handcuffs.
“That is the one thing I would consider,” Roe said.
Rock also told the court that he “didn’t learn about this until right now” and would like to see “something in writing.”
Roe also said that he “would consider something in writing” and made no ruling on the issue Monday.
At a hearing in May, Wolf said he plans to pursue a motion asking to hold the trial outside of Ogle County,
a motion that was filed March 6 by former Assistant Public Defender Michael O’Brien, who left the office in mid-April. As of Tuesday, Aug. 26, Wolf had not yet filed that motion.
Motions asking to move a trial to a different location typically cite pretrial publicity as a reason why the filing party believes a defendant would not get a fair trial in the county in which the case was filed. Gounaris’ next court appearance is set for 3 p.m. Sept. 25.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
PAG to present Tapestry of Shadows Oct. 10-12
This fall, The Performing Arts Guild will present Tapestry of Shadows, a theatrical tribute to Edgar Allan Poe. The show will consist of four of Poe’s most haunting works to the stage –“The Raven,” “The Black Cat,” “The Cask of Amontillado” and “The Tell-Tale Heart.”
Performances will be held Friday through Sunday, Oct. 10-12, at the Allure of Pinecrest Grove Theater, 500 Evergreen Lane, Mt. Morris. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7 p.m. and the Sunday matinee is at 2 p.m..
There will be open seating on a first-come, first-served basis. Doors open a half hour before show time. For tickets call 815-734-2103 or order online at www.performingartsguild. com.
Auditions were held in June and we are pleased to announce the cast as follows: Maxwell George, Joe Helfrich, Sherri Stiles, Larry Ubben, Trudy Whalen and Morgan McConnell. Edgar Allan Poe is known for his tales of mystery and the macabre. Enjoy something truly unique – a theatrical experience that honors one of literature’s darkest voices in the very month of his death.
Tapestry of Shadows is reimagined and directed by Morgan McConnell with Trudy Whalen as co-director. Producers are Jennifer Bakener and Pamela Ballard.
Polo Chamber Dinner is Sept. 24
The Polo Chamber of Commerce will hold its 58th annual meeting and dinner 5 p.m. Sept. 24 at the Polo Room at 712 N. Division Ave. in Polo.
The event will begin with registration and cocktails followed by dinner at 6 p.m. and the meeting and presentation of awards at 6:30 p.m.
Awards announced will be the Citizen of the Year and the Carole Nettz Volunteer of the Year. Chamber President Joey Kochsmeier will give a report on Chamber activities through 2024-2025 and election of the 20252026 board of directors will be held. Three vacancies need to be filled and nominations will be accepted.
– Jeff Helfrich
Alex T. Paschal photos
Jonathan Gounaris leaves an Ogle County courtroom Monday, Aug. 25, in Oregon.
William Wolf, attorney for Jonathan Gounaris, appears Monday, Aug. 25, in Ogle County Court. Wolf requested his client not appear in court wearing shackles when media is present.
‘Laying the groundwork for new opportunities’
Rochelle breaks ground on intermodal expansion
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The City of Rochelle held a groundbreaking for the expansion of its Rochelle Intermodal Transload Center on Thursday, Aug. 14.
The RITC, at 1851 S. Steward Road, opened in 2020 as a joint effort between the city and the Greater Rochelle Economic Development Corporation to provide industries of all sizes with direct rail access.
To date, the facility has transloaded 1,000 railcars and has served as a staging area for hundreds of shipping containers used by 12 customers. Increased demand in the area for rail-to-truck transloading and third-party logistics brought about the $4.8 million expansion, which will be 80% funded by the Illinois Department of Transportation.
The event was attended by city officials and staff, economic development personnel, state officials and representatives from the railroad and trucking industries. Speakers at the event were City Economic Development Director Tom Demmer, Mayor John Bearrows, City Manager Jeff Fiegenschuh, City Engineer and Railroad Director Sam Tesreau, Illinois Secretary of Transportation Gia Biagi, and the Burlington Junction Railway’s Peter Hoth.
Demmer said the City of Rochelle Railroad is unique and offers opportunities for economic development by local businesses and the chance to attract new businesses. He called the RITC expansion “a great opportunity” for the city, Ogle County and the region and thanked the state for its support of the project.
Bearrows said the project will have “a significant impact” on Rochelle and local and regional businesses. He thanked IDOT and GREDCO for their support on the project, which he said took many hands to bring to fruition.
The RITC came about following the closure of Global III intermodal in 2019. After that, the city began work to open its own facility to serve local and regional businesses. Bearrows thanked former City Economic Development Director Jason Anderson, Fiegenschuh, the City Council and city staff for their work and support.
Rochelle held a groundbreaking for the expansion of its Rochelle Intermodal Transload Center on Aug. 14. Increased demand in the area for rail-to-truck transloading and third-party logistics brought about the $4.8 million expansion, which will be 80 percent funded by the Illinois Department of Transportation.
“I stand here today filled with gratitude and pride as we celebrate what we’ve overcome together,” Bearrows said. “Numerous individuals played crucial roles in bringing this project to fruition. As we break ground today, we’re not just creating an international facility. We’re laying the groundwork for new opportunities, growth and prosperity for Rochelle. This facility will serve as a vital link for local businesses, helping them thrive in an ever-changing global economy.”
Biagi reiterated the state’s support for infrastructure projects like the RITC that serve local municipalities and businesses.
“It’s wonderful to be here at this incredible facility,” Biagi said. “So much hard work has gone into the investments that preceded this and getting to this point. We have the money and willpower, and we’re all pulling on the same rope in the same direction, and we’re going to continue to get great infrastructure investments done in this region and the state.”
Fiegenschuh called the RITC “a truly historic partnership” between the city, state, GREDCO and trucking and rail representatives. The RITC and the CIR help to keep Rochelle competitive in today’s economy, he said.
IDOT’s support of the project was vital, the city manager said.
“I’m pleased to highlight our strong relationship with IDOT,” Fiegenschuh said. “This kind of commitment is absolutely vital to the success of the RITC and our private sector partners. Our partnership with IDOT is broad,
deep and essential to Rochelle’s future. On behalf of our community, I want to thank Gov. JB Pritzker, his staff and the entire IDOT team for their vision, investment and continued support of Rochelle and our economic growth.”
The city’s railroad is operated by the Burlington Junction Railway and has been for the past 19 years. Hoth thanked the city for its partnership and called transloading “a vital part” of growing economies and railroads.
“Not every industry can be directly rail served,” Hoth said. “Here we can serve people that are a quarter mile away or 50 miles or more away and give them access to our national rail network and increase what they can do. We’re proud to invest in Rochelle and our services here and look forward
The Burlington Junction Railway’s Peter Hoth speaks at the city of Rochelle’s groundbreaking for the expansion of its Rochelle Intermodal Transload Center at 1851 S. Steward Road on Aug. 14. Mayor John Bearrows is on the right.
to doing that for a long time.”
Closing remarks at the event were made by Tesreau, who recently took on the added responsibility of serving as the city’s railroad director. He thanked everyone who has worked on the project, including IDOT and Fehr Graham, the project’s engineering consultant.
“Since late last year, this has been a whirlwind,” Tesreau said. “But today we’ve set yet another project in motion. It’s what we do as transportation and engineering professionals. We make it happen. Let’s savor this success today and move on to the next challenge ahead of us. Now the boots on the ground and moving of dirt begins, to see this project go from plans to reality. Let’s dig in and move some earth.”
Jeff Helfrich photos
Ogle County Board denies 2 solar permits
Update on long-range planning projects presented, including memorial circle plaza
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Ogle County Board voted unanimously Aug. 19 to deny special-use permits for two solar energy developments.
The first proposed development was for a 5-megawatt community solar energy facility on 89.56 acres in the 7000 block of North Stillman Road in Scott and Marion townships. Those township boards also voted against the proposal, along with the Ogle County Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning and Zoning Committee.
Residents of the area near the proposed solar facility attended the meeting and held up signs thanking the County Board after the denials. One resident
Ogle County Board Chairman Bruce Larson (right) and Board Vice Chairwoman Patricia Nordman are shown at the board’s monthly meeting Aug. 19, when the board voted unanimously to deny two special-use permits for solar developments.
spoke during public commentary.
“You voted for your constituents and for your people, and you said no,”
Heather Lalor of Stillman Valley said.
“You said, ‘Not here,’ where it has the potential to negatively impact so many people who simply chose to live where they chose to live.”
JONES FUNERAL HOMES
A representative from U.S. Solar, the developer of the Stillman Creek Solar project, also spoke during public commentary and said he hopes to come to a compromise with the county for a project to go forward in the future.
“It’s obviously not the outcome we were hoping for,” Ryan Magnoni of U.S. Solar said. “U.S. Solar is open to hearing any conditions that could be added to the application to find a happy medium for residents and the public to eventually move this forward.”
The second special-use permit denied Tuesday was for Cenergy Power for the construction of a 5-megawatt community solar energy facility on 29.34 acres at 9336 E. Hales Corner Road in Scott Township.
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 a special-use permit for a solar facility in Mt. Morris Township by a vote of 17-4, with residents citing the property’s value as farmland.
Back in December, the board narrowly approved a special-use permit for a solar project between Forreston and
See COUNTY BOARD, page 7
Jeff Helfrich
• COUNTY BOARD
Continued from page 6
Polo after previously denying that project due to it being on productive farmland. That petitioner changed its siting to less productive farmland and filed a lawsuit against Ogle County for the denial, stemming from a new state law that set statewide standards for wind and solar farm siting and took away previous local controls such as at the county level.
Planning committee updates
The board heard a facilities update from long-range planning committee Chairman Don Griffin during the meeting. Griffin updated the board on work that has been done in the basement of the old Ogle County Courthouse and introduced Steve Nelson of Larson & Darby engineering.
Nelson said a roof replacement is planned for the old Ogle County Courthouse in the coming months and presented proposed plans for a memorial circle plaza on the south end of the old courthouse, the former site of the previous Ogle County Jail.
Nelson said the project would be broken into three phases due to
needed funds and would involve fundraising. Three benches for the project already have been donated. The first phase would include a statue on a podium with a circular concrete sidewalk surrounding it, connecting to existing sidewalk. Landscaping
and shrubbery would be included as well.
The second phase would include a curved walkway into the memorial from the east, with a total of seven benches. The third phase would include landscaping including trees
and shrubs, along with a canopy, the most expensive aspect of the project.
Constellation approval
The board voted 16-5 to approve a rezoning of 184.98 acres of land in the 4000 block of North Black Walnut Road in Marion Township from agricultural to industrial use for Constellation Energy, the owner of the Byron Nuclear Plant.
The Ogle County Board voted back in August 2024 to rezone 524 acres of land owned by Constellation around the Byron Nuclear Plant from agricultural to industrial as Constellation considers attracting industrial development, such as data centers.
“I want to thank the board for its vote of support tonight on behalf of our nearly 800 employees, site vice president and our plant family,” Ryan Tozer, Constellation manager of local government affairs, said Aug. 19.
Vehicle purchase
The board unanimously voted during the meeting to spend $52,464.20 in opioid funds to buy a 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe for the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office. The new vehicle will replace a squad car that was recently totaled in a crash.
Jeff Helfrich
At its Aug. 19, meeting, the Ogle County Board heard a report on proposed plans for a memorial circle plaza at the former site of the previous Ogle County Jail.
Arroyos win Rochelle Chamber Lawn of the Week
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Rochelle Chamber of Commerce presented its Lawn of the Week award for the week of Aug. 22 to Jose and Lourdes Arroyo. They received a sign and a $25 Rochelle ACE Hardware gift card, presented by Rochelle Ace Hardware Manager Jesse Lopez.
The Chamber has partnered with Rochelle Ace Hardware to award gift cards to the winners.
The 2025 Lawn of the Week program has begun for the summer and will run through September. Nominate a neighbor/yard each week by submitting a name and address by emailing rochellechamber@gmail.com.
“We are proud to recognize our residents that display community pride in Rochelle,” Chamber Executive Director Tricia Herrera said. “We love that this program gives us the chance to showcase the hard work and dedication they put into making our city look great.”
and a $25
Photo provided
The Rochelle Chamber of Commerce recently presented its Lawn of the Week award for the week of Aug. 22 to Jose and Lourdes Arroyo. They received a sign
Rochelle ACE Hardware gift card, presented by Rochelle Ace Hardware Manager Jesse Lopez.
LIBRARY NEWS
Bertolet library
CLOSED Monday, Sept. 1
Bertolet Memorial Library will be closed Monday, Sept. 1, in observance of Labor Day.
Story Time Returns Sept. 4 at 10 a.m.
Join Miss Stacey and your pre-K friends for a fun time of stories and activities every Thursday at 10:00am.
September Take & Make Craft
Stop by the circulation desk to pick up your kit to make an apple core today.
Adult Book of the Month
In Kate Quinn’s “The Huntress,” Nina Markova is a Soviet Union pilot who falls victim to The Huntress. Ian Graham becomes a post-war Nazi hunter, with his sights set on The Huntress. Jordan McBride is not a fan of her step mom and begins to dig deeper into her past. The more she digs, the more suspicious she becomes. Pick up your copy from the circulation desk today.
Spice of the Month: Oregano
A member of the mint family, oregano originated in Greece but didn’t gain popularity in the U.S. until after World War II. Stop by the circulation desk to pick up your sample of oregano and try some new recipes.
Community Puzzle
This is a tough one with lots of fall foliage colors!
Game Table
We have a variety of board games, including checkers, for anyone to play. Stop in and bring your competitive streak.
Plastic Recycling
*No animal feed bags are allowed (cat, dog, bird, etc)* We ask that you make sure plastic is clean with no debris in the donation. Also please remove any Ziploc-type seals and paper/sticker labels. Thank you for your cooperation.
New Releases
Adult Books: “American Sky” by James Grady, “One Good Thing” by Georgia Hunter Picture Book: “Pop! Goes the Nursery Rhyme”
DVD: “Broke”
Byron Public Library
Special Hours
The Byron Public Library will be closed Monday, Sept. 1, in observance of the Labor Day holiday. It will reopen for regular hours on Tuesday, Sept. 2.
The American Civil War
Wednesday, Sept. 3, at 3 p.m.: The American Civil War is said to be one of the bloodiest wars in American history. Step
back in time with historian Jim Gibbons as he brings to life the gripping story of the Civil War – uncovering the pivotal events that led to it, the fierce battles that defined it, and the profound aftermath that reshaped a nation. Discover how this defining conflict claimed the lives of more than 700,000 American soldiers and forever changed the course of U.S. history. Call 815-234-5107 to register for this program.
Creative Studio
The Creative Studio is open on Sunday afternoons and two evenings a week, so stop by for monthly crafts and to use maker space equipment! Crafts out on the tables are free of charge, while some other projects will incur a cost depending on materials. Middle school and high school youths can use some of the materials while with an adult or during Teen Time. Creative Studio hours: 1-5 p.m. Sunday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Monday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5–8 p.m. Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday. It is closed Friday and Saturday.
Check out Our Mobile App
Did you know that there is an easy way to use the library from your phone? Just download the PrairieCat app to your phone or mobile device and log in with your library card number and PIN! You’ll be able to view your checkouts and holds, renew renewable materials, and search the library catalog. There’s even a digital copy of your library card.
Curbside Delivery
The library is open for browsing, but patrons can still use our curbside service! Place your holds online at byronlibrary.org or call 815-234-5107. Not sure what you want? Call for help! We will call or email you with a confirmation when your holds are ready to be picked up. Call us when you arrive at the library, and we will bring your items out to you, already checked out. A receipt with your due dates will be included with your items.
Visit the Byron Library Facebook page, or subscribe to newsletters at byronlibrary.org, to keep up to date on library news and programs! Be sure to also check out the Byron Library and Byron Library Teen Instagram pages.
Forreston library
SSET4School donations
Thank you so much for your wonderful response and supplying school supplies during our annual collection. Our giant box
was filled to the top! Your generosity helps ensure our local students start the school year with the supplies they need!
Community Room
Looking for a place to hold your event? Our community room (with a small kitchenette) is available for meetings, parties, showers, family reunions and more. Call the library at 815-938-2624 for information.
Soft plastic recycling
We are collecting film-type plastic for recycling. This includes plastic bags, zipper-type baggies (with the zip portion removed), cereal/snack bags, bubble wrap and other soft plastic. Make sure bags are free from debris and remove all paper/sticker labels. Animal food bags, including birdseed, cannot be accepted.
Mt. Morris Public Library
Mount Morris Library Hours
The Mount Morris Library is open every day Monday through Saturday. Hours are from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays and from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays.
*New Day* Ink with a Friend Tuesday, Sept. 9, at 5 p.m.
We will be offering a card-making class from a local crafter, Liz Gullett. She will be at the library 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9,. You will get all the materials to make two beautiful cards to take home. Stop by to see the samples; there is a $5 fee when you register. Registration is limited so call the library or stop by to save your spot before Sept. 2.
Lego Night! Thursday, Sept. 25, at 6 p.m.
Bring the family out for some awesome brick building. We will pull out #AlltheLegos for this night and kids can build whatever they can imagine. Then, they can put a name on their creation and keep it on our display for all to enjoy until the next Lego night.
Display Case Showings
Stop by to see the awesome display of dolls from our very own, Margaret Dannhorn. Dolls play a critical role in many families lives and these are no different. Come admire all the ups and downs of childhood through the styles of our dolls. We are always looking for collectors or artists who are willing to share their treasures in our display cases. If you are interested, call 815-734-4927.
See LIBRARY NEWS, page 11
Leaf River Soaring Eagles attend Ogle County Fair
Photos provided
Leaf River Soaring Eagles 4-H Club members were busy with their projects being judged and working at the Ogle County Fair this year. The members were involved in showing their animals, clothing, general projects, foods, horticulture and photography. Some of the members were around the fair volunteering their time as well. They helped in the Children’s Farm during the fair and with cleaning up the Children’s Farm. Another member helped with the judging by handing out ribbons at the rabbit judging. Some of the members worked in the Exhibit Building, setting it up for the fair, helping in it during the fair and helping with the cleanup process on the last day. They still managed to have time to enjoy the fair as well. If being active in the fair is something that sounds fun to you, joining 4-H is a great way to do that. The projects are fun as well as educational. If you would like to know more about 4-H or the Leaf River Soaring Eagles 4-H Club, contact Nickie Lingbeck at 815-275-2492. TOP: Kaden Lingbeck
Hazel Friday and Lydia
are
the
(left),
Sherburne
seen in
Children’s Farm at the Ogle County Fair. BOTTOM: David Wehler is seen with his computer science project.
From deer to ducks and turtles to turkeys, the Franklin Creek Conservation Association’s wildlife museum has a broad range of animal displays.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
Franklin Creek Conservation Association to host Grist Mill Market Day on Sept. 20
The Franklin Creek Conservation Association will host a Grist Mill Market Day on Sept. 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will include Franklin Creek Corn Grinding and a wildlife display. Join to watch the big wheel of the grist mill turn on, powered by the waters of Franklin Creek.
Corn-grinding demonstrations will be offered twice throughout the day at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Come see the new wildlife
• LIBRARY NEWS
Continued from page 9
Explore More Illinois
Explore More Illinois users can access, and reserve passes from any of the attractions on the Mount Morris Library website, mtmorris-il.org, under the resources page. Visit the website to browse attractions.
Hot Spots available at Mount Morris Library
The library has hotspots available to check out for use at home. These are available to Mount Morris Library card holders and will be checked out for 14 days. Get more information from a librarian if you would like to use this free service.
Lions Club Glasses and Hearing Aids Collections
Donation boxes for eyeglass recycling are available at the library. When the boxes are full, they are picked up by local Lions members and dropped off at collection depots. These recycled eyeglasses are given to people in need, with the help of various medical missionaries, in Central and South America and around the world. When the eyeglasses arrive in these countries, doctors and technicians conduct
display exhibit on the second floor and enjoy a day in the park.
Vendors will be set up on the front lawn and barbecue beef sandwiches and grilled hot dogs will be available for purchase, along with mini corn muffins and other treats.
The gift shop will be open with hats, T-shirts, paintings, hoodies, mugs and more. Mill tours will be available throughout the day and fresh ground cornmeal will be available to buy. The Grist Mill is located at 1893 Twist Road in Franklin Grove.
– Jeff Helfrich
eye exams and provide a free pair of prescription eyeglasses that are as close as possible to that person’s sight needs. When donating hearing aids, please be sure to place them in a small box or hard-covered case so they do not get crushed or damaged.
Adult Programming
We would love to hear from you. Do you have any program ideas? Do evenings or weekends work better? Do you have a program you would like to share/lead?
Contact Mary Cheatwood at the library through email at mmlib@mtmorris-il.org or call 815-734-4927.
Newspaper Available!
We will now be receiving the Dixon Telegraph daily. We receive the Ogle County Life, Sauk Valley and Mt. Morris Times. Curbside service is available
We want to remind everyone that you still have the option of having your materials delivered to your vehicle. If you have holds waiting for you, call us to tell us you are on your way, and we will bring them out to your vehicle when you arrive. Call us if you need more information.
The Mount Morris Public Library is located at 105 S. McKendrie Ave., Mt. Morris.
Travis Cunningham Owner/Auctioneer
Alex T. Paschal
OPINIONS THE
FIRST AMENDMENT
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Curate your circle like it’s an investment in your future
You can have the strongest mindset in the world, but hang out with the wrong people, and that mindset will begin to sink like an anchor.
I remember my parents drawing strict lines around whom I could hang with – and it infuriated me. They were my friends, after all. But as I’ve grown, I’ve realized my parents understood something my youthful optimism didn’t: The attitudes, habits and moods of others seep into your life – unnoticed, until they’ve stuck.
I was a sneaky teenager, a little rebellious, always finding ways to hang out with my friends despite my parents’ disapproval. Over time, I started to notice something strange – my thoughts, my behavior, even the way I talked started to sound less like me and more like them. Deep down, I knew something was off, because the way I was thinking didn’t line up with how my parents raised me – it was more like I had borrowed my friend’s mind without realizing it.
My dad took me to see the famous motivational speaker Jim Rohn one time, and I heard Mr. Rohn say, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” At the time, it sounded like one of those catchy quotes
Toby Moore VIEWS
you jot down and forget. But as the years have gone on, I’ve realized it was more than a nice line – it was a scientific truth.
Ever hear of mirror neurons? These are neurons in your brain that fire when you see someone else act or feel something. In a way, your brain copies them without asking permission. Studies show that if your friends are negative, lazy or full of doubt, your brain begins to mirror that state. Your focus drops, your motivation decreases and, slowly, their reality becomes your reality. You begin to think and act like them.
And it doesn’t stop with your closest circle. Researchers at MIT ran a study on the “hidden influence of social networks.” They found that our moods, choices, and even levels of ambition ripple out three degrees. That means your friend’s friend’s friend – someone you’ve never even met – still can be shaping your outlook.
It’s called emotional contagion. Emotions spread through groups like the flu.
If your circle is pessimistic, it spreads. If they’re optimistic, that spreads too. There’s also something called the Default Mode Network, or DMN, in your brain. Think of it as your mental autopilot – the backdrop of your identity, self-image and the story you tell yourself about who you are. Neuroscience shows your DMN is highly malleable. Spend too much time around people who doubt themselves, and you’ll doubt yourself, too.
But here’s the flip side. Mirroring isn’t destiny. Just as negativity rubs off on you, so does passion. Hang around people who are building, creating, chasing their vision, and your brain taps into that energy, too. Watch someone take bold risks, and your own neural circuits for courage light up. Inspiration isn’t magic – it’s your brain being reshaped by the people around you.
That’s why Warren Buffett once said, “It’s better to hang out with people better than you. Pick out associates whose behavior is better than yours and you’ll drift in that direction.”
And it echoes an even older truth, passed down in different forms for centuries: “Show me your friends, and I’ll show you your future.”
Curate your circle like it’s an invest-
ment in your future. Spend time with people who believe bigger, live with more discipline, and push themselves further – not because they’re flashy, but because their habits rub off on you. Their standards become your standards. Your brain literally rewires itself to match the company you keep.
So before you beat yourself up for not living up to your full potential, pause and look around. Who are you spending most of your time with? Their doubts – or their dreams – are setting the boundaries for what you believe is possible.
If your people are impatient dreamers, grounded believers, creative disruptors – keep them close. If they’re dragging you into doubt, laziness, or “good enough” thinking, let them go – gently, but firmly.
Your brain is wiring itself every single day. Intentionally choose people who light sparks – not just for your mood, but for your mind, your vision and your future.
•TobyMooreisaShawLocalNews Network columnist, star of the Emmy-nominatedfilm“ASeparate Peace” and CEO of CubeStream Inc. He canbereachedatfeedback@shawmedia. com.
Pretrial detention reform is a regular political punching bag
Lying about pretrial detention rules in Illinois has been the go-to move for opponents of criminal justice reform for so long it’s starting to seem like maybe there isn’t a way to win the argument on factual merits.
In January 2021, before Gov. JB Pritzker even signed the law currently in the White House’s crosshairs, state Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, wrote an essay proclaiming, “By removing even the option of imposing cash bail, you are handcuffing our judicial system. Under this legislation, everyone, no matter what crime they committed, is entitled to immediate release.”
Bail is for the accused, not the convicted, but “presumed innocent” as a legal concept is rarely relevant in the court of public opinion. Of larger concern was Rezin’s assertion that “everyone” was entitled to release despite the fact the bill included sev-
eral classes of criminal allegations that would not be eligible for such consideration.
In seeking to preserve the old system, opponents contended the reform was bad public policy without advancing a convincing argument for the public safety benefits of allowing suspects to buy their way out of jail while awaiting prosecution. The stated and applied goal of doing away with cash bail was to make pretrial detention assessments on factors of charges, danger and flight risk without considering the likelihood of someone having (or finding) enough money to stay out
of county lockup.
In September 2023, when cash bail formally ended, House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, said, “The end of cash bail means the legal deck is stacked against the victim and community in favor of the criminal. This law makes it more difficult for police officers and prosecutors to keep our communities safe.”
Yet reform opponents were oddly silent just a few weeks earlier when a 52-year-old man in Madison County paid 10% of a $1 million bond to be released three days after being charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with a shooting at the home of a woman with whom he had a relationship.
Who is made safer because the courthouse is sitting on a $100,000 bond? The rhetorical response is that once a suspect posts bail, they’re more
likely to comply with release terms and make all their court dates than someone given a money-free bail. But if we’re so concerned about accused murderers being back on the street, why support any rules that make that an option?
The state court system maintains a useful landing page for judicial opinions and data dashboards at illinoiscourts.gov/courts/additional-resources/pretrial-resources. It’s a primary source for learning how these rules came to be and understanding their daily application.
Such information is admittedly dry, but hopefully truth has more value than partisan spin.
• Scott T. Holland writes about state government issues for Shaw Local News Network. He can be reached at sholland@shawmedia.com.
Scott T. Holland EYE ON ILLINOIS
Doesn’t sound pro family to me
To the Editor:
Our Congressman, Darin LaHood, of the 16th congressional district, recently sent out a news letter where the “Big Beautiful Bill” was described as the “most pro family piece of legislation in history.” And he was glad to support it.
How does a bill that cuts SNAP benefits become pro family? Struggling families need help. Cutting SNAP benefits is going to hurt families.
How is cutting Medicaid going to benefit families? Again, families that are struggling need Medicaid to keep their families healthy. Without Medicaid payments, some smaller, rural hospitals may find it difficult to provide medical services to all the people in their area. Those payments are important, because hospitals will not turn away poor people. Without reimbursement, how will those hospitals survive?
And since he is boasting about protecting families, How does having armed, masked men rounding up citizens and taking them into custody without warrants, often without cause, and without due process, help families? In fact it hurts families as news stories frequently tell of husbands or wives taken away, leaving their families without both parents, or grandparents. This is not helping families.
And exactly how does targeting Haitian immigrants for removal and returning them to Haiti benefit families? Haiti is in chaos, killings and rapes occur daily, yet our government is sending people back. Women and children. People who came here to escape the violence.
This “Big Beautiful Bill” does not benefit us.
It benefits the billionaires and multimillionaires.
Those who supported it should be ashamed.
And those who remain silent when men and women are rounded up based on skin color are not representing the values and
WRITE TO US
morals of the United States of America.
Terry Dickow Rochelle
The Good Place
To the Editor,
The Good Place. Within a day’s drive of Ogle County, you can visit five different examples of utopian communities, all established between 1839 and 1857.
They are the Latter-day Saints (Mormons), Nauvoo, Illinois; the Jansonists of Bishop Hill, Illinois; the Trappist monks of New Melleray Abbey, Dubuque, Iowa; the French Icarians, Corning, Iowa; and the Community of New Harmony, New Harmony, Indiana, established in 1814.
This part of the Midwest was certainly fertile ground for the Utopian experiment. The idea of Utopia, meaning “good place,” originated with Sir Thomas More and his book titled “Utopia” in 1516. In his book he painted a picture of a community that possessed highly desirable qualities in religious, social and political customs.
What is a utopia? It is an intervention of the imagination at a time of transition or crisis that suggests alternative values to the current ideology and offers the possibility of a new kind of society.
Is this such a time? Are we still fertile ground for such an effort? Have we reached a time where enough people are discontent with what they are discontent about? Is the current ideology failing to inspire and influence striving for a better life? Can a utopian imagination lead us to a place where we have not yet been but are willing to go towards?
A utopia is not a dream or a wish of “only if”, but the result of every human act which is directed towards the construction of a more just society. For me this would lead to a society that cherishes liberation for all and the development of a culture that is free of social, economic and political inequality. We would become a freer, more human humankind. I think that is worth working for.
Rev. Ronald D. Larson Retired clergy, Mt. Morris
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EMAIL LETTERS TO: news@oglecountynews.com.
We welcome original letters on public issues. Letters must include the author’s full name, home address and day and evening telephone numbers. We limit letters to 250 words and one published letter every 21 days. All letters are subject to editing for length and clarity at the sole discretion of the editor.
Oregon business owner wins international aesthetics award
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Oregon Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to share that Jennifer Dahm, owner of Allure Aesthetics and Beauty in Oregon, has been named one of only three winners in an international BioRePeel case study competition.
In April, Dahm entered the 15-week competition, which featured thousands of aestheticians and medical providers worldwide. Participants were challenged to create a treatment protocol using at least 80% BioRePeel products – a no-downtime chemical peel manufactured in Pisa, Italy – and to track the progress of a client over the course of the study.
Her winning case study focused on improving pigmentation (dark spots) and stimulating collagen for anti-aging bene-
fits. Dahm submitted detailed weekly reports and photos documenting the client’s transformation, earning recognition for her meticulous documentation and outstanding results.
The competition’s other winners hail from Puerto Rico and Florida, underscoring the truly global scale of the event.
As part of her award, Dahm will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Italy this fall, where she will meet the chemists behind BioRePeell; take a private masterclass; tour the production facility in Pisa; and experience Italian culture firsthand.
“I’m excited to bring the improved skill and knowledge back to Ogle County,” Dahm said. “I’m proud to be the pioneer of BioRePeel here in Oregon and look forward to offering my clients even more advanced skin care solutions.”
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Rochelle’s Wexell named 1 of America’s best program directors Kris Wexell, program director and operations manager at WYOT-FM and WRHL-FM in Rochelle, has been recognized by “Radio Ink” magazine as one of the Best Program Directors in America for 2025.
Kris Wexell
Wexell, who has 32 years in radio and 23 as a program director, oversees 102.3 The Coyote, the top-rated country station in the market. Under his leadership, 102.3 The Coyote was named Small Market Station of the Year in Illinois and locally honored as Community Partner of the Year.
Wexell has also been recognized by the Illinois General Assembly and named Illinois Radio Personality of the Year for Small Market four consecutive years. The combined digital reach of 102.3 The Coyote and SuperHits 93.5 exceeds 182,000 Facebook followers, with a weekly audience of up to 13 million, and Wexell continues to have a major impact on country music in the region.
–ShawLocalNewsNetwork
Coliseum Museum presents Wild Blue Ukulele Orchestra on Sept. 14 Wild Blue Ukulele Orchestra will appear at the Coliseum Museum in Oregon from
3-5 p.m. Sept. 14 for a Sunday afternoon concert featuring a full range of ukuleles – from the soprano to the UBass!
The fully orchestrated arrangements cover a variety of genres and eras and demonstrate the versatility of the instrument.
John Lindhorst is the owner of the popular little Ukulele Station America, as well as his latest dream venture, Oregon Music Garage.
Throughout his 40-year career, as a singer, songwriter and teacher, John has lived and taught in Illinois, Hawaii and California, For the past several years, John’s sphere of artistic influence as well as business leadership has returned him to the beautiful and historic town of Oregon; the place he calls home.
Doors open at 2 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person. You may register online at https:// www.cmaaa.org/events.html. You also may call 815-595-5810 or email info@ cmaaa.org to buy tickets or for more information.
The CMAAA mission is to present Art, Antiques, Americana and history through permanent and rotating exhibits, workshops, music, theater and more. Additional information can be found on the website, www.cmaaa.org and Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ColiseumMuseum.
–JeffHelfrich
Heartache Tonight sets attendance record for Mt. Morris Jamboree
Heartache Tonight, an Eagles tribute band, now holds the record for the largest crowd at the Jamboree Concert Series in Mt. Morris.
The popular band filled the lawn circling the Warren Reckmeyer Band Shell on Aug. 22, all to the delight of Jamboree organizer Larry Ubben.
“We have 2,200 here tonight,” said Ubben, sitting in the middle of the large crowd that came out to the free concert on a perfect summer night.
When the lawn area was filled, concertgoers set up their chairs on Wesley Avenue, which is closed for traffic
during the concerts.
The previous record this year was 1,400 set by Rocks Off, a Rolling Stones tribute band. But Brass from the Past, playing a selection of Motown, soul and rock tunes, with a large horn and rhythm section, was a close second with 1,350, and the Chicago Tribute Anthology, a tribute band for the iconic band Chicago, followed with 1,200.
“Heartache Tonight is one of the finest Eagles tributes in the country,” Ubben said. “They always put on a great show.”
– Earleen Hinton
Photos by Earleen Hinton
TOP: Heartache Tonight, an Eagles tribute band, performed at the Jamboree Concert Series in Mt. Morris on Aug. 22. ABOVE: The lawn surrounding the Warren Reckmeyer Bandshell in downtown Mt. Morris was packed with people to hear Heartache Tonight.
Hiemstra hired to lead economic development
New director takes the helm at Ogle County Economic Development Corporation
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
On her first day on the job, new Ogle County Economic Development Corporation Director Liz Hiemstra took a picture of Oregon’s downtown from the window of her courthouse office.
“I did it just so I could look back in five or 10 years and see how it’s changed,” Hiemstra said. “I’m excited to see those wins for our communities so people can continue to have their small-town pride. I’m excited to welcome new people into the area and show them what we have to offer.”
Hiemstra was hired by the OCEDC to fill its vacant director position last month. The OCEDC was established in 2023 as a nonprofit economic development organization representing a unified effort by the entire county. It represents the communities of Polo, Oregon, Mt. Morris, Byron and Creston. Ogle County and the city of Rochelle also provided startup funds for the organization. Charlene Coulombe was the organization’s previous director.
Hiemstra has lived in Oregon for the past 30 years. She currently serves as the market manager for the River’s Edge Farmers Market in Oregon and has her own small business in Libra Farms. She brings a background in marketing, community engagement and small business expertise.
Hiemstra said she has become more involved in the community in the past 10 years, including working with the Oregon Together nonprofit and, along with Melanie Cozzi, taking over the farmers market.
“I want to be involved and I love my community,” Hiemstra said. “I want to do what I can. I expressed that to [Oregon City Manager and OCEDC Board Vice President Darin DeHaan] and said I wanted to be part of the community in any way I could. When this opportunity came along, I applied and interviewed, and was hired.”
OCEDC Board President Randy Schoon of Polo said, “It means everything” to the OCEDC to have Hiemstra on board as director. He said the organi-
I’m excited to see those wins for our communities so people can continue to have their small-town pride. I’m excited to welcome new people into the area and show them what we have to offer.”
Liz Hiemstra, director, Oglce County Economic Development Corporation
marketing and promotion, capital development, recreation, sports and tourism.
Housing will be the No. 1 objective, Hiemstra said. Some homebuilding is currently taking place in Creston and Byron, and Mt. Morris, Polo and Oregon have “prime subdivision real estate” waiting on development, she said.
“We’ve been talking to local builders,” Hiemstra said. “There are a few out there that are building homes that are being sold. We know that there is an appetite. It’s just about finding that sweet spot of making sure everyone has a home that is affordable and works for them. Different towns have different needs. There are some vacant buildings. We want to see more retail in downtowns and bring that sense of place. With industry, there are some empty industrial buildings and plots that are ripe for development. That’s on the horizon, too.”
zation is excited to have a longtime county resident and active community member as its leader and face.
“It’s almost like the stars aligned,” Schoon said. “She is going to do great things, and the sky is the limit for her. She just has to put her head down and do the work. She’s very capable, and we’re more excited than we’ve been since we put the OCEDC together. I think we’re at the point now where we’re finally going to start to see some good things happen.”
Hiemstra said that as a small-business owner, she’s realized the workload it takes to be successful in business, beyond just knowledge and passion. That was one of the reasons she was interested in the OCEDC director position, and she plans to use that experi -
ence when working with current and potential businesses.
Initial OCEDC work for Hiemstra has included visiting each town and entity the organization represents and meeting with its leaders and stakeholders.
“I’ve been working to immerse myself in the towns I’m not as familiar with,” Hiemstra said. “I’ve been trying to reach out and get an idea of what these communities have, need and want. I’ve been really impressed with the work these communities are already doing. I feel like there’s momentum and we’re on the brink of something really great.”
Schoon and Hiemstra said top priorities for the OCEDC include housing, business retention, attracting industry,
OCEDC meetings involving the leaders of the various communities in recent years have brought about collaboration and idea sharing that didn’t previously exist. Hiemstra said working as a team to improve the county as a whole is needed, along with making for a louder voice in the industrial development arena and at the state level for potential opportunities.
“We have to work together to make our voices heard and get what we need for our beautiful small towns,” Hiemstra said. “Rural populations have been declining. And with that goes a lot of our amenities. The things that we want to see, we have to be able to support. I enjoy work like this because I love meeting new people and talking with people. I like to hear about what people have going on in their lives. I love being creative. This job is a lot of creativity and putting puzzle pieces together to create solutions that have a tangible impact I can see.”
Jeff Helfrich
The Ogle County Economic Development Corporation recently announced the appointment of Liz Hiemstra as its new director of economic development.
National Bus Trader celebrates 40 years in Polo
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
National Bus Trader, Inc. celebrates 40 years in Polo in 2025. It was in 1985 that the company moved to Polo from Delavan, Wisconsin. A home for the Plachno family was bought on Judson Road and adjacent property was acquired and zoned to build an office.
Larry Plachno graduated from DePaul University in Chicago with a bachelor’s degree in English. He then served in the U.S. Army and returned as a disabled American veteran.
In 1977, he founded National Bus Trader and the company grew so rapidly that he had to quit his regular job as an advertising manager of a manufacturing company to manage it.
Today, the company continues with its basic work of publishing two trade magazines in the bus industry. The monthly National Bus Trader now is digital and is primarily a bus equipment magazine. Readers are primarily in the
U.S. and Canada while advertisers come from all over the world.
Bus Tours Magazine is both print and digital and comes out six times annually. It is primarily an idea book for bus tour planners looking for places to take their groups. Readers and advertisers are primarily in the U.S. and Canada.
Over the years the company had done other things. For several years it published transportation history books under the Transportation Trails imprint. In addition, it ran a show called Bus Bash for about 40 events.
The company also has managed three bus operations at various times. The most recent was when National Bus Trader Inc. was in Delevan, Wisconsin, it owned Wisconsin Illinois Stages. That company operated bus routes from southern Wisconsin to Chicago and Madison as well as tours and charters.
Company founder Plachno said that much of the credit for the company’s success is because of their professional staff, including his wife Nancy, who
Polo people with working well together, starting from supporting the high school teams through Town and Country Days, Second Hand Rose, the Polo Lifeline, the Senior Center and a great historical society.
He also is complimentary of the Polo school system. His seven children attended the Polo schools continually from 1985 to 2019, which may be a record for a parent. Plachno credits the Polo Schools with providing a great education for his older children. With the younger ones, daughter Panjee went on to become Dr. Pamela Plachno, a doctor of physical therapy. Youngest daughter Patricia now is in graduate school at DePaul University in Chicago working on an advanced degree in speech disorders.
serves as company vice president and office manager.
He also said that he has been pleased with their location in Polo. He credits
The company now is looking forward to its 50th anniversary in 2027. A 50th anniversary logo has been designed that appropriately is in blue and gold colors to match the colors of the Polo Marcos teams.
Photo provided by Larry Plachno
The National Bus Trader office on Judson Road was built like a house to blend in with the homes along the road. It has always been used as an office.
Image provided by Larry Plachno
The company logo celebrating the National Bus Trader’s forthcoming 50th anniversary in 2027 is colored blue and gold to match the colors of the Polo Marcos.
AREA CHURCH DIRECTORY
BYRON
ALL SAINTS LUTHERAN CHURCH
624 Luther Drive, Byron IL 61010 815-234-5277
Pastor: Vicar Michelle Wandersee
Sunday Worship Service held at 9:00 am. A recording of each Sunday’s worship service is available on our Facebook page and our website later in the day. Communion is served every Sunday. Sunday School for ages 3 through Adult is held at 10:00 am September through May. Confirmation studies for 7th and 8th grade students are held each Sunday morning at 10:00 am. Monday afternoon Bible Study is held at 1:30 pm via Zoom. In person Bible Studies are held Tuesday evening at 7:00 pm and Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 pm. Book Club and The GATHERING meet monthly; quilters meet twice monthly. Visit our website http://www.AllSaintsByron.org or call the church office for further information.
CORNERSTONE FAMILY CHURCH
205 N. Peru St., Byron 815-234-8737 cornerstonefam ily.church
Sr. Pastor: Erik Ness, NextGen/ Family Pastor: Collin Nicholls Children’s Ministry Director: Katie Dodd
Worship Service on Sundays at 10am with Children ‘s Worship Service and Nursery Available
Revive Jr High and Sr High Youth Ministries Meet Sundays at 6:30pm
Numerous Small Groups Available for All Ages throughout the week . Please call our Church Office or visit our website for more details Office Hours: 8:00am -4:30pm Mondays-Thursdays
BYRON ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH
226 E. 2nd St, Byron, IL 61010 Phone 815-234-7431 – Fr. Richard Rosinski. Weekday Masses: Tuesday – Friday 7:30am, Weekend Masses: Sat. 5:00 pm, Sun. 8:00 am and 9:30 am, Reconciliation: Fri. 8:00 am – 8:30 am; Sat. 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm or by app. Eucharist Adoration Fri. 8-9am www.saintmaryinbyron.org secretary@saintmaryinbyron.org
UNITED CHURCH OF BYRON
A Member of the United Church of Christ
701 W. Second Street; PO Box 927, Byron IL 61010, 815-234-8777
Email: ucb@comcast.net
Website: unitedchurchofbyron.org
Pastor: Rev. Tyler Spellious
Youth Ministry Coordinator: Richard Simpson
Sunday Schedule & Worship opportunities:
Service of Meditation & Prayer: 8:15am- 8:45am
Adult Sunday School Hour: 9am
Kids Sunday School: (for ages 3 thru 5th grade) during the 10:30 worship Coffee & fellowship time: 10:00am 10:30am
Main Worship: 10:30am
Spark Youth Group (for ages 6th grade thru 12th grade) Sundays, 5pm-7pm
For complete ministry schedule and other activities, please check our website or Facebook page or contact the church office.
Whoever you are or wherever you are on your journey, you are welcome here!
BEACON HILL ASSEMBLY OF GOD
“Building Faith for Life”
6467 N. German Church Rd., Byron, IL
a.m. (childcare provided) with coffee and fellowship immediately following. Sunday School Age 3-Adult, 10:15 am. God is Good, All the Time, All the Time, God is Good!
ST. JAMES LUTHERAN CHURCH
Celebrating 175 Years!
West Grove Rd. At Columbine Rd.
Worship Service 10:30 am. Communion is served every Sunday.
“Singing the Song of Christian Faith in Worship, Service, Learning, Outreach and Welcome” in a beautiful rural setting. Everyone is cordially invited to be with us.
Follow Us on Facebook “St. James Lutheran Church”
LEAF RIVER
ADELINE ZION EVANGELICAL CHURCH
9106 Cedar St. in Adeline, Leaf River, IL 61047 • Ph:815-541-4863 Sunday Services: Sunday School 9:00 am, Worship Service 10:15 am VISITORS WELCOME
LEAF RIVER BAPTIST CHURCH
Pastor Billy Hardy
Sunday Morning 9:30am Bible Classes for all ages 10:30am Worship Service with nursery available. Live stream available at leafriver.church/live-now 6941 N. Mt. Morris Rd., Leaf River, IL 61047 815-738-2205 leafriverbc@gmail.com leafriver.church
LINDENWOOD
IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH – LCMS immanuel-lindenwood.org (for sermons, events, etc.) 16060 E. Lindenwood Road, Lindenwood, IL 61049 815-393-4500 • office@immanuel-lindenwood.org
Sunday Mornings: Divine Service @ 9am; Food & Fellowship @ 10am; Sunday School and Adult Bible Study @ 10:30am Food Bank: 1st and 3rd Saturdays, 9am-12pm Pastor: Rev. Dr. Matthew Rosebrock pastor@immanuel-lindenwood.org
LINDENWOOD UNION CHURCH
101 N Galena st, P.O box 67, Lindenwood IL Regular worship service Sundays at 10:00am with fellowship following. Tuesdays 10:00 am Sr Exercise! Lunch afterwards. Thursdays 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Library time. Snacks and coffee. Everyone is welcome!
KINGS
ELIM REFORMED CHURCH
140 S. Church Road, Kings, IL 61068 • Pastor Marv Jacobs Phone 815-562-6811 E-mail: goelimchurch@gmail.com Website: www.goelimchurch.org Sunday morning worship 10:00 am
MOUNT MORRIS
MT. MORRIS CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN
409 W. Brayton Road, Mt. Morris, IL 61045 Phone 815-734-4573
Pastor-Rodney Caldwell. Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. followed by fellowship time and Sunday School. Worship service available online, call for details. Email: mtmorriscob@gmail.com
MT. MORRIS TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH
308 E. Brayton Rd. Mt. Morris, IL Phone: 734-6354 Rev. Josh Ehrler
Worship Services: Saturday 5:30 PM; Worship Sunday 9:30 AM . Sunday Church School follows Worship Service (Sept.-May) Chime Choir Wednesday 6:00 PM
OREGON
EAST OREGON CHAPEL CHURCH OF GOD
East Oregon Chapel Church of God The Sharing is Caring Church EOCCOGministries@gmail.com 107 N Daysville Rd. Oregon, IL Phone: 815-732-2960
Sunday School 9:30 a.m. with Sunday Worship following at 10:30 a.m.
Breakfast is served every fifth Sunday beginning at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday evenings both Adults & Youth (during the school year) meet weekly beginning at 6:30 p.m.
In the event that Oregon Schools are not in session the Youth group does not meet on Wednesdays. We look forward to meeting you!
EBENEZER REFORMED CHURCH
2997 N. German Church Rd., 815-732-6313
3 miles east of Oregon on Rt. #64 then 2 miles north on German Church Rd. • Rev. Josiah Youngquist www.EBENEZERREFORMED.com • Sunday school 9:00 a.m. Worship 10:00 a.m.
LIGHTHOUSE UNITED METHODIST
Pastor Dave Rogula 4962 S. Daysville Rd., Oregon, IL 61061 lighthouseUMC@ yahoo.com
Worship at 11:00 a.m. Holy Communion celebrated the first Sunday of each of month. Lighthouse will lite up your life!
LITTLE PRAIRIE MENNONITE CHURCH
1831 S Harmony Rd. Oregon, IL 61061
Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Morning, 7:00 PM 1st & 3rd Sunday Evening, 7:30 PM 2nd & 4th Wednesday Evenings of the Month. Pastor: Norman Reinford 779-861-3700
OREGON CHURCH OF GOD
860 W. Oregon Trail Road Oregon, IL Phone: 732-6847 or 732-2604 Pastor Michael Hoffman; Sunday School, 9:15 a.m.; Morning worship, 10:30 a.m.; Wednesday activities: Adult, Children, and Youth Groups 7 p.m. At the church.
OREGON FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
505 Hill St. Oregon, IL 61061 Phone: 732-2642
Pastor: David Snow “A Christ-centered, Bible-believing, family-oriented ministry.” Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Sunday Morning Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Afternoon Service 1:15 p.m.; Wednesday Night Bible Study 7:00 p.m.
OREGON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
200 S. 4th Street, Oregon, IL 61061 | 815-732-2994 | www.oregonumc.org
Pastor Rev Megan Smick 9:00 am Adult & Youth Bible Study
10 am Worship & Children’s Sunday School In-person or live on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OregonUMC 5:30 pm Wednesday Night Meal All are welcome!
RIVERSTONE CHRISTIAN CHURCH
609 S. 10th Street Oregon, IL 61061
Pastor Craig Arnold ~ 812-236-1213
Sunday Service @ 10:45 AM ~ contemporary style worship with coffee and doughnuts in our cafe! Online worship is also available via Facebook. We believe in sharing Communion every Sunday as an act of worship.
RiverKids Service @ 10:45 AM for nursery-6th grade ~ provides a safe and fun environment where kids can learn about who God is and who they are because of Him.
ST. BRIDE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
1000 Highway 64, West (Hwy 64 W & Mongan Drive on Liberty Hill), Oregon 732-7211 – Office Rev. Eldred George
Webpage: saintbrides.org • E-mail:saint.bride.church@gmail.com
Worship Services: Sunday 10 am Holy Communion with Hymns Christian Education Available
ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH, NALC 114 S. 5th St. Oregon, IL Phone: (815) 732-2367
Website: stpaulnalcoregonil.weebly.com 10:15 a.m. Fellowship/Education hours 11:30 a.m. Worship
POLO
CHURCH OF THE OPEN BIBLE
302 S. Franklin Ave., Polo, Illinois • 815-946-2848 • Luke
9:30 a.m. Coffee Fellowship. 10:00 a.m. Morning Worship with Childcare and Children’s Church.
Encounter Youth Ministry for kids in 7th-12th grade meets on Sunday afternoons. Please see our Facebook page for scheduled dates and times. For complete ministry info and events, visit us online at Riverstonecc.com or on Facebook at facebook.com/RiverStoneChristianChurch
STILLMAN VALLEY
am. Wednesday: AWANA (Sept – April) from 6:00 to 7:30 pm. Men, women, youth Bible Studies throughout the year. See website for all activities or contact the church office. KISHWAUKEE COMMUNITY EVANGELICAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
WINNEBAGO
Ogle County dog rescue brings rescues together
September event in Oregon lets people meet with adoptable dogs
By PAYTON FELIX pfelix@shawmedia.com
An Ogle County all-breed dog rescue is bringing multiple rescues together for a September event at which people can hang out with adoptable dogs.
The fifth annual event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 27 at Carnation Park, 1 Webster St. in Oregon. Aside from seeing the dogs, attendees can grab a bite to eat while shopping vendors for dog products and service providers, and participate in activities with prizes for kids, Bonafied rescue owner Melodee Hoffman told Shaw Local.
Those looking to be a vendor at the event are required to pay a $20 fee and
turn in the sign-up form to Bonafied at P.O. Box 66, Oregon, IL 61061. Vendors also are asked to donate a basket, product or service valued at $15 to $20 that will be included in prizes.
Bonafied, which stands for Bring Out Natural Abilities Found in Every Dog, was founded in 2017 with the goal to match orphaned dogs with loving families. To do that, the rescue has a comprehensive adoption and education process, Hoffman said.
The rescue takes in dogs of any age, breed or physical condition. All dogs are then spayed or neutered, given the appropriate veterinary care, and placed in foster homes before adoption, she said.
The September event is intended to raise awareness and educate the public about the overpopulation and need for homes for animals that would otherwise be euthanized, Hoffman said.
All funds raised from the event will go toward the care of dogs at Bonafied.
For information, contact Hoffman at bonafied@yahoo.com or 815-973-9162.
Jessica Fair of Oregon decks out her dog,
the dog park in Oregon’s Carnation Park.
Sept. 27 at the park.
Get your boat and gloves: It’s time to ‘sweep’ the Rock River
By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Are you tired of seeing trash in and around the banks of the Rock River as it winds its way through Oregon?
Well, here’s your chance to do something about that.
After a four-year absence, volunteers are being asked to hit the water and the banks to “sweep” the river of trash during the Oregon Area Rock River Sweep, organized by the City of Oregon’s Sustainability Committee
People are needed from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6.
“Volunteers are needed on foot or in boats to clean up a 9-mile section of the Rock River, from Mud Creek Road to the Castle Rock State Park boat landing,” said Meanie Cozzi, one of the event organizers. “Boaters, fishermen, paddlers, river land owners, Scout groups, service organizations, and individuals are requested to help protect and preserve this beautiful asset by helping to pick up trash as well as sort the recyclable items from the waste.”
Students can earn community service hours for participating, Cozzi said.
All Sweep participants must register at one of three staging sites:
• Kiwanis Park (123 N. Second St., Oregon): For those using paddle craft or working along the shore on foot. Those on foot will walk or drive to areas accessible from shore.
• Lowden State Park boat landing: (Route 2, north of Oregon): Motorized boats
• Castle Rock boat landing (south of Oregon): Motorized boats
Volunteers will be at all three sites to register and assign participants to a portion of the river.
Gloves, trash bags, bug spray, snacks, and water will be available for participants, who are encouraged to wear long sleeves, long pants, and old shoes or boots, and to bring a reusable water bottle to the event to reduce waste.
Water jugs will be available at all three starting points for refilling water bottles. Life jackets must be worn by all volunteers in boats.
Several drop-off sites for trash will be located along the cleanup route, where crews from the Oregon Park District and the Solid Waste Management Department will pick it up and take it back to Kiwanis Park to be sorted for disposal or recycling.
Butitta Automotive will recycle any waste tires collected from the river.
Shaw Local News Network file
Volunteers use their boats to bring trash to the shore at Kiwanis Park in Oregon during the 2020 Rock River Sweep. Volunteers are being sought to help with his year’s event on Sept. 6.
Organizers are expecting to collect a sizeable amount of trash this year since the river sweep has not been held for several years.
And if you don’t have a canoe, but want to paddle out to collect trash, a local business can help.
White Pelican Canoe & Kayak Rental Inc., located next to Kiwanis Park, behind Conover Square, below the Oregon dam, will be providing a limited number of free canoes for use for the sweep, Cozzi said.
“White Pelican will also provide free shuttle service from Castle Rock boat
landing back to Kiwanis Park before the event for those with their own canoes or kayaks,” Cozzi said.
Anyone interested in using a canoe or shuttle service needs to call White Pelican at 815-263-4088 for details and registration requirements.
For more information about the sweep, contact Cozzi at mcozzi@cityoforegon.org or Steve Rypkema at rypkemas@gmail. com.
History of the ‘Sweep’
The Rock River Sweep was an annual event for 10 years, sponsored by the nonprofit RockRiverSweep.org. That group dissolved in 2021.
The Oregon Sustainability Committee included hosting cleanup events in its Sustainability Plan, which was adopted by the city in 2024.
The 2025 Oregon Area Rock River Sweep is being sponsored by the City of Oregon, the Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department, the Oregon Park District, Oregon Fire Protection District, White Pelican Inc., Butitta Automotive, and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
The rain date for the 2025 event is Sept. 13.
Shaw Local News Network file photo
Jazzy, during Bonafied’s first Rescue Rally in 2020 at
The fifth annual event will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
photo
Warranty deeds
• James T Janes and Marilyn A Janes to Peter W Hodapp and Lyndsey Hodapp, 8666 N. Riverview Drive, Byron, $326,000.
• Lakeview Loan Servicing Llc to Marco A Hernandez, 130 S. Sixth St., Rochelle, $59,900.
• Jamoine 3 Llc to Darrel L Stukenberg, 12 parcels in Mt. Morris Township: 08-05-300-006, 08-06-400-001, 08-06-400-002, 08-07-100-004, 08-07-100-006, 08-07-100-012, 08-07-100-014, 08-07-200-002, 08-07-200-003, 08-08-300-002, 08-08-300-007 and 08-17-100-002, $0.
• Sheri L Bossany to Jace T Warkentien and Alyssa J Ealy, 5370 E. Scarlet Oak Lane, Byron, $287,000.
• Michael E Keeton and Alyson R Augustyn to Margaret Hare and Zachary Hare, 5338 E. Aspen Court, Byron, $336,500.
• Adam Herwig and Clifford C Jones to Robert Borgen, 300 Main St., Chana, $64,500.
• Carol A Arnould, trustee, and Carol A Arnould Tr to Czupryna Radoslaw, 1006 Timber Trail Drive, Dixon, $35,000.
• S&c Renovations Llc and S & C Renovations Llc to Jeremy R Buehn and Veronica L York, 4 E. Lincoln St., Mt. Morris, $70,000.
• Donald E Cook and Judith A Cook to Daniel Phillips, 102 S. 2nd Ave., Forreston, $170,000.
• Groenewold Fur And Wool Company to Groenewold Guy G Tr, 9945 N. Hollywood Road, Forreston, $200,000.
• Jason Robert Clark, April Lynn Donegan and April Lynn Clark to Vytautas Rozmanas and Simona Rozmane, 1442 W Indian Heights Dr, Oregon, $235,000.
• Andrew T Baatz and Amber Marie Baatz to Lane Dinges, 900 S 3rd St,
Oregon, $150,000.
• Jml Llc to Steven Book and Susan Book, 608 E Hewitt St., Forreston, and 610 E Hewitt St, Forreston, $22,000.
• Donald J Binkley to Jon M Ludwig, 10555 W Grove Rd, Forreston, $110,500.
• Benjamin C Johnson and Jacquelyn C Johnson to Neona Lundgren and Spencer Disimoni, 108 Janet Ave., Rochelle, $186,000.
• Carolyn Myers, trustee, and Larry L Myers Tr99 to Steven B Conner and Sandra M Conner, 1424 Crimson Ridge, Byron, $195,000.
• Manuel Sotelo-Covell and Manuel Sotelo Covell to Melissa Joyner and Matthew Joyner, 311 E South Park Drive, Byron, $155,000.
• Derek E Price to Donna Witkowski, 924 W 8th Ave., Rochelle, $210,000.
• Michael Bailey to Stephen Gibson and Kendra Gibson, 103 Wolf Drive, Dixon, and 105 Wolf Dr, Dixon, $3,800.
• Contry Homes Group Llc to Nathan Dean Haas and Juliana L Haas, 1110 Burlington Way, Davis Junction, $288,545.
• Patricia Braun to Gavin J Meiners and Tracy L Meiners, 316 Knollwood Drive, Dixon, $18,500.
• Erica M Schwoeppe and Erica M Graden to Irene S Saunders, 612 W Mason St, Polo, $127,000.
• Brent Pearson to Karleen B Williams, 111 W Roosevelt St, Stillman Valley, $165,000.
• Judity M Himes to Crimson Tiger Holdings Llc, 215 E 3rd St, Byron, $156,000.
• Hre Builders Llc to Dusten D Pribble and Marisa Katelyn Pribble, 351 Mill Ridge Dr, Byron, $370,900.
• Shawn Shepherd to Michael Elrod and Katrina Koch, 402 W Fulton St, Polo, $163,000.
• David Trudeau and Jessica Trudeau to
Thomas Lovgren, 7048 E Executive Court, Stillman Valley, $400,000.
• Taylor N Carlson and Ryan J Carlson to Timothy R Gronewold and Audra M Gronewold, 405 N Division Ave., Polo, $125,000.
• Carrie L Phillips and Cari L Phillips to Dominique Gonzalez and Erin Guadalupe, 2689 N Lynnville Court, Lindenwood, $220,000.
• Treyton Buh to Samuel Girkin and Kaitlyn Girkin, 108 Hillside Dr, Polo, $154,000.
• Michael Luke Goessman and Kirsten Eva Goessman to Erin Cooper and Paul Cooper, 3075 E. Water Road, Byron, $439,000.
• Gerald Mcintyre and Voirin Enterprises Llc, one parcel in Brookville Township, 06-10-300-002, $13,000.
• Keven J Costello and Melanie J Costello to Joshua Mccleary and Carmen Mccleary, 14704 E Eddy Rd, Davis Junction, $70,000.
Warranty deed in trust
• Dennis Swinton to Jeffrey W Jones, trustee, and Jeffrey W Jone Declaration Tr2013, 212 S. Seventh St, Rochelle, $50,000.
Quit claim deeds
• Chance E Doane to Annie M Bettenhausen and Kastner Construction Inc, 214 Minnesota Dr, Dixon, and 212 Minnesota Dr, Dixon, $0.
• Miguel Garcia Vazquez and Beatris Esparza to Miguel Garcia Vazquez, trustee, Beatris Esparza Lopez, trustee, and Garcia Miguel Lv Tr, 215 Irene Ave., Rochelle, $0.
• Dora W Betz to Dora W Betz and Shirley Zaman, 305 E 2nd St, Leaf River, $0.
• Michael J Stewart to Michael J Stewart, trustee, and Michael James
Stewart Tr, 607 N Luther Dr, Byron, $0.
• Michael J Stewart to Michael J Stewart, trustee, and Michael James Stewart Tr, 6442 N Marrill Rd, Byron, $0.
• Michael J Stewart to Michael J Stewart, trustee, and Michael James Stewart Tr, 322 N Hamer Ct, Byron, $0.
• Michael J Stewart to Michael J Stewart, trustee, and Michael James Stewart Tr, 914 N 7th St, Rochelle, $0.
• Michael J Stewart to Michael J Stewart, trustee, and Michael James Stewart Tr, 212 N Sumner St, Byron, $0.
• Michael J Stewart to Michael J Stewart, trustee, and Michael J Stewart Tr, 224 N Sumner St, Byron, $0.
• Michael J Bossany to Sheri L Bossany, 5370 E Scarlet Oak Ln, Byron, $0.
• Edward Drager to Edward Drager and Lucia Drager, 745 Golden Prairie Dr, Davis Junction, $0.
• Richard D Elliott, trustee, and Richard D Elliott Land Tr to Richard D Elliott, 1030 N 7th St, Rochelle, $0.
Trustees deeds
• Terrill D Janes, trustee, Carole R Janes, trustee, and Terrill D & Carole R Janes Family Tr to Kaytlin Neale and Kaleb Hess, 615 Missouri Dr, Dixon, $196,000.
Deeds in trust
• Jessie S Diduch, Jessie S Bazzell and Dennis A Diduch to Jessie S Diduch, trustee, and Jessie S Lv Diduch Tr, 11638 N. Springfield Road, Baileyville, $0.
• Dennis A Diduch, Jessie S Diduch and Jessie S Bazzell to Dennis A Diduch Jr, trustee, and Dennis A Diduch Lv Tr, 11638 N Springfield Rd, Baileyville, $0.
• Audrey R Kilker to Audrey R Kilker, trustee, and Ark Tr725, three parcels in Forreston Township: 02-21-100-016, 02-21-200-006 and 02-21-200-007, $0.
• Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office
SM-AT250826_163503
SPORTS
TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY
2001: Facing the Atlanta Braves’ Greg Maddux, Cubs slugger Sammy Sosa hits the longest home run in Turner Field history as his 53rd of the season travels 471 feet to straight away center.
Oregon’s goal: take next step in playoffs
The Hawks hope to build on back-to-back postseason appearances in 2025
By TY REYNOLDS Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Oregon is looking to take the next step this season and is turning to a time-honored Hawks mantra to do so.
After snapping a six-year playoff drought with back-to-back 5-5 seasons, the Hawks hope to build on that foundation of success. Senior running back and defensive back Cooper Johnson succinctly summed up how they want to go about that.
“Play fast and hit hard,” he said.
That’s the style Oregon used during a run of 12 playoff berths in 16 years during John Bothe’s tenure, and with head coach Broc Kundert entering his fourth season, the Hawks’ familiarity with the system and style of play should help with that.
“It makes it a lot smoother,” Johnson said. “We don’t have to start from Day 1. It’s already like we’re on Day 30. We just keep on growing and getting better. I think we’re a step ahead of where we were last year.”
“Implementation-wise, we just kind of feel like we’re where we need to be, maybe like a week before our first game, and we’ve got plenty of days to continue to get ready,” Kundert said. “I think maybe with it being Year 4, the kids know what to expect, they know the system, it’s stayed the same, and we can just fly to the football because we don’t have to think as much anymore.”
In addition to Johnson, Oregon also brings back seniors in quarterback/ defensive back Benny Olalde, running back/defensive back Keaton Salsbury and two-way lineman Tristin SmithVan Cura, and juniors such as running back/linebacker Jakob Moser and Jayden Berry, and running back/defensive back Jakobi Donegan.
Senior Ethan Reed (defensive line)
and juniors Zandyr Withers (tight end and defensive line), Dawson Alcala (offensive and defensive lines), Zayden Vandesand (offensive and defensive lines) and Ethan Peeling (wide receiver and linebacker) will be key newcomers who are expected to step up for the Hawks.
“We’ve got a bunch of young guys stepping in for the seniors last year,” Johnson said. “I think we’re much faster than last year, we’re definitely going to be a lot faster team, we’re definitely going to get to the ball faster as a team.”
A hard-nosed defense is always key in the tough Big Northern Conference, and some balance on offense is expected this season in Oregon. With a strong stable of running backs and a returning signal-caller in Olalde, the Hawks would like to spread the ball around in various ways on offense.
“We’re going to be balanced,” Olalde said. “Everyone’s been working really hard during the offseason, getting everyone to help each other and make sure we’re all going the same way. I think we’re going to be really balanced and have a little bit more fire on offense.
“I think it’s going to start with our O-line and our H-backs. After they start clicking, everyone else starts clicking with them.”
The goal for the season is clear: not only to get back to the playoffs, but to make some noise when they get there.
Recent trends stoke some optimism for that. The Hawks have won three of their final four regular-season games each of the past two years before firstround playoff losses, so a faster start to the season – and continuing to build their mental toughness – could help them carry that momentum deeper into
the postseason.
“I think they’ve kind of tasted it, ‘This is what success tastes like – and I like it, and I want to continue it.’ No shot at the previous staff before, but I think we had to kind of learn how to win,” Kundert said. “Year 2 [in 2023], when we did make the playoffs, we were learning at the varsity level. Last year was just a cluster of injuries that just hurt us, but if you would have had that scenario with all those injuries happen two years ago, we wouldn’t have been able to handle that adversity like we did last year.
“I feel like these guys kind of know what it takes, they’ve tasted it, they want to continue it, so not necessarily that the sky’s the limit, but we want to take off running right away and not have any mess-ups or anything like that, just play well every game. I’m excited for our guys.”
Earleen Hinton file photo
Oregon’s Cooper Johnson (center) tries to evade a Rockford Lutheran defender Oct. 18, 2024, in Rockford.
By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com
The 2025 girls volleyball season starts this week. Here are previews of teams from around the area.
Amboy
Coach: Nicole Jones (third season)
2024 record: 12-18-3, 5-8 NUIC
Top returners: Jillian Anderson, sr., OH; Kiera Karlson, sr., MB; Peyton Payne, sr., MB; Jadyn Whelchel, sr., S
Key varsity newcomers: Maddie Althaus, jr., OH; Lili Leffelman, jr., RS; Morgan Kreiser, jr., S
Worth noting: Coach Jones says she returns a lot of key players, making up a majority of the varsity team.
“Our team is very talented,” Jones said. “We have a lot of options. If we all work together and our leaders emerge, we will have a very good season. We have our goals and we will accomplish them together.”
Forreston
Coach: Shannon Williams (11th season)
2024 record: 14-18-2
Top returners: Bree Schneiderman, jr., OH; Hailee Vogt, sr., OH/S; Makenna Jordison, sr., LB
Key varsity newcomer: Cara Pals, so., MH
Worth noting: The Cardinals will have a new look after the graduation of the program’s all-time leader in kills in Jaiden Schneiderman, a Wisconsin-Stevens Point recruit who finished with 1,655 career kills. That total is No. 10 all-time according to IHSA.org’s online records for kills in a career.
“We have a young team, but we are returning five players who played significant time last season,” Williams said. “We will be missing our key offensive player, Jaiden Schneiderman, but we have Jaiden’s very talented sister, Bree, who will hopefully step up and take over where her sister left off. Our goal is to finish top 3 in the conference.”
Oregon
Coach: Farrell Tremble (sixth season)
2024 record: 18-17, 6-3 BNC
Top returners: Skylar Bishop, sr., M; Lola Schwarz, so., OH
Key varsity newcomer: Shaylee Davis, jr., OH
Worth noting: The Hawks reached the Class 2A regional semifinals last season before falling to E-P.
“Our team this year is small but scrappy,” Tremble said. “We are about half returning and half new to varsity, so it may take some time to hit our groove, but we will be competitive regardless as Oregon volleyball always is.”
Polo
Coach: Emily Meinert (first season) 2024 record: 14-14-4
Top returners: Cam Jones, sr., S; Laynie Mandrell, sr., MH; Reese Mekeel, so., MH; Grace Miatke, sr., L; Brylee Laskowski, so., S
Key varsity newcomer: Hadley Hillison, jr., DS
Worth noting: “We’re heading into this season in a great spot, coming right off a winning year with most of our starters returning,” Meinert said. “We’re looking to have an even more successful season. I am excited to see what these girls are capable of.”
Shaw Local News Network file photo
Oregon’s Skylar Bishop blocks a ball from Erie-Prophetstown’s Lauren Abbott Oct. 29, 2024, in the Class 2A regional volleyball semifinal at Newman High School.
Oregon takes on EPC in practice game
Photos by Earleen Hinton
TOP LEFT: Oregon’s Cooper Johnson tries to jump over Eastland-Pearl City’s Brody Simons (0) during a practice game Aug. 22 at Lanark. The Hawks open the 2025 season at Genoa-Kingston on Aug. 29, while EPC hosts Fulton. TOP RIGHT: Oregon’s Cooper Johnson runs with the ball behind Edward Gomez, and Jakob Moser throws a block during a practice game with Eastland-Pearl City. ABOVE: Eastland-Pearl City quarterback Deaken Hofmaster looks to pass during a practice game with Oregon. LEFT: Oregon’s Landon Ziller catches a pass for a gain during the practice game with Eastland-Pearl City.
Forreston learning from growing pains
Cardinals hope experience will pay off after rough 2024
By TY REYNOLDS Shaw Local News Network correspondent
There were a lot of new faces on the field for Forreston last season, and the youth and inexperience showed as the Cardinals went 2-7 and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2009.
But by taking their lumps last season, the Cards believe they’ll be in a much better position to return to their usual standard this fall.
“We were real young last year, just a lot of inexperience, and then that leads to things like guys being on the field maybe when it’s too soon or too early,” fifth-year head coach Keynon Janicke said. “But we kind of took care of that last year by getting guys on the field so they’d be ready for this year.”
Tight end/defensive lineman Hunter DeWall was the only all-conference player for Forreston last season. But the Cardinals bring back 10 starters on offense (four linemen, two tight ends, three running backs and a quarterback) and eight on defense (three linemen, two linebackers and three defensive backs), meaning the inexperience from last year has turned into veteran presence this season.
“Last year, the problem was our team was really young – a lot of sophomores and a couple freshmen on varsity – and this year they’re all maturing,” DeWall said. “If they keep maturing, that will help for this year and next year, and just keep it going.”
Not only do the Cardinals now have a lot of varsity experience, but those players are hungry for success after learning the hard way last fall.
“A lot of these guys are ready to step up,” Janicke said. “Our season ended, and we’ve been in the weight room since November, and I haven’t had to do a lot of motivating for that. We’ve got upperclassmen that are ready to lead the way.”
Playing for a program with three state titles, two more trips to the semifinals, and an additional pair of quarterfinal berths since 2011, these Cardinals are aware of the legacy that’s been passed down to them. After a down year, they’re ready to get back to the
team that went 119-32 in the 13 years between 2011 and 2023.
To do that, DeWald said it will take a return to physical play and hard work, as well as learning lessons from last season. The biggest thing: finishing off drives and finishing off tackles.
“We just have to be physical,” he said. “Last year, a lot of people on our team were afraid to hit, and that cost us several games. We had so many games that were within reach where we weren’t physical enough, and we couldn’t finish them off and get the win.
“We’ve had a strong system in place for a long time now, and we’ll just keep running that until it doesn’t work. It
makes it really easy for us in the offseason, because it’s just the same thing as last year, but working harder to achieve what we want. It’s just adding more to what we worked on last year, and getting better.”
For their part, Janicke and his coaches realize that they can’t just run it back after a two-win season, especially after seeing halftime leads turn into losses three different times last year because of second-half struggles where “we were just flat,” Janicke said.
But the year of experience, the dedication he’s seen from the players throughout the offseason and the adjustments the coaching staff has
made since last November have Janicke thinking about a strong turnaround this fall.
“If we clean ourselves up, if we fix what we need to fix, the wins will come,” Janicke said. “And we have to change a little bit, we can’t just keep doing the same things that we’re doing. We’ve got to be aware that there have to be some changes in some areas. We can’t be ignorant as coaches to that fact. So we’ve tried our best to make some adjustments offensively and defensively, and then just change our mindset to stop letting things happen to us and just be physical football players.”
Earleen Hinton file photo Forreston’s Kayden Loomis looks for blocks against Eastland-Pearl City in a NUIC game last season at Pearl City.
Polo seniors stepping into leadership positions this season
By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com
A perennial state contender in the Illinois 8-Man Football Association, the Polo Marcos look to continue their winning ways behind new senior leaders.
Following the graduation of all-state quarterback/defensive back Gus Mumford, Polo will turn to JT Stephenson, who also was in the mix behind center last season.
“We’re hoping he can step up and fill that void,” Polo coach Ted Alston said. “He’s a little bit different kind of player, but I think he can do a lot of the same things that Gus was able to do.
“He’s got a nice arm and has looked pretty good so far throwing the ball as well.”
Despite coming into the season with little varsity experience at QB, Mumford accounted for over 1,200 yards rushing and 800 passing last season.
“JT has had some experience and played in pretty much every game we played last year at some point at quarterback,” Alston said. “We feel good about that. He’s been out there and it won’t be a big surprise for him.”
Alston said the receiving depth is not as prominent this season, but the tight end group is solid.
All-state senior two-way lineman Wyatt Plachno looks to anchor the trenches and classmate Damon Rowe is another returning all-conference player at defensive end/tight end. Alston also listed Korbin Cavanaugh (TE/DE) and Quinton Hart (RB/LB) as top players to watch.
“I think both sides, the offensive and defensive lines are pretty solid,” Alston said. “And we have some good depth there. That’s probably going to be our strength; our depth and skill.”
Alston said the team can’t afford to make many mistakes this season.
“We’ve got to be sharp to win games this year,” he said. “So hopefully we are disciplined and we do those things well.”
Winning 8-man state titles in 2019 and 2021, Polo has reached the semifinals the past two years. Milledgeville broke through last season to reach the championship game against Amboy after beating Polo 28-14.
A history of success in the league, which started in 2019, has helped the Marcos keep a high standard for new players.
“Success breeds success,” Alston
Those kids, they’ve put in their time and they’ve worked hard.”
Ted Alston, Polo coach
said. “The kids don’t want to disappoint, so they’ve worked hard to be the next team up and try to fill the shoes of those guys before them that did really well.
“I think they’ve embraced that role as well so I’m pretty happy about that.”
Alston said Plachno, Rowe, Stephenson and the other seniors will need to step up as leaders this season. Polo opens the season at home against Bushnell-Prairie City on Aug. 29.
“Those kids, they’ve put in their time and they’ve worked hard,” Alston said. “They’ve got to not just be good football players, but they’ve got to be the leaders of the team.
“At some point, bad things happen to a football team. And if you don’t have those leaders on the team, it makes it a little bit harder to recover.”
Alex T. Paschal file photo
Polo’s JT Stephenson avoids a safety by getting out of the end zone against Milledgeville on Oct. 4, 2024, at Milledgeville High School.
Shaw Local News Network file photo
Polo’s Wyatt Plachno (right) celebrates a Marco touchdown against Alden-Hebron during 8-man playoff action last season in Polo.
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APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE 25-08
BE IT ORDAINED by the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of Mt. Morris, IL:
Section 1. That for the purpose of defraying all the necessary expenses and liabilities of the Village of Mt. Morris for the following sums, or so much thereof as by law may be authorized and the same are here-by set aside and appropriated for the following purposes.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
OGLE COUNTY, IL LINOIS
Estate of:
RENEE J. FELTS, Deceased
No. 2025 PR 48 CL AIM NOTICE
Notice is given of the death of RENEE J FELTS. Letters of Office were issued to TANYA M. HARROLLE, 1256 Glacier Dr., Byron, IL 61010, as Represen tative, whose attorneys are WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C., 202 E 5th Street, Sterling, Illinois 61081. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061, or with the Representative, or both, on or before March 6, 2026, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: August 21, 2025
Tanya M. Harrolle, Representative Ryan M. Olson ARDC 6333161 WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C. Attorneys for Estate
202 E. 5th Street P.O. Box 400 Sterling, IL 61081 P: 815.625.8200 olson@wmpj.com
August 29, Sept. 5, 12, 2025
Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061, or with the Representative, or both, on or before March 6, 2026, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: August 21, 2025
Tanya M. Harrolle, Representative Ryan M. Olson ARDC 6333161 WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C. Attorneys for Estate 202 E. 5th Street P.O. Box 400 Sterling, IL 61081 P: 815.625.8200 olson@wmpj.com
August 29, Sept. 5, 12, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
OGLE COUNTY, IL LINOIS
Estate of: JOYCE I. GATZ, Deceased No. 2025 PR 50 CL AIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of JOYCE I. GATZ. Letters of Office were issued to JANETTE S FOLKERS, 2535 South Wilson Mill Road, Polo, IL 61064, as Represen tative, whose attorneys are WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C., 202 E 5th Street, Sterling, Illinois 61081.
Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061, or with the Representative, or both, on or before March 13, 2026, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed. Dated: August 27, 2025
Janette S. Folkers, Representative Ryan M. Olson ARDC 6333161 WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C.
Attorneys for Estate
202 E. 5th Street
P.O. Box 400 Sterling, IL 61081
P: 815.625.8200 olson@wmpj.com
Sept. 5, 12, 19,
OGLE COUNTY, IL LINOIS
Estate of: JOYCE I. GATZ, Deceased
No. 2025 PR 50 CL AIM NOTICE
Notice is given of the death of JOYCE I. GATZ.
Letters of Office were issued to JANETTE S FOLKERS, 2535 South Wilson Mill Road, Polo, IL 61064, as Represen tative, whose attorneys are WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C., 202 E 5th Street, Sterling, Illinois 61081. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061, or with the Representative, or both, on or before March 13, 2026, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: August 27, 2025
Janette S. Folkers, Representative Ryan M. Olson ARDC 6333161 WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C.
Attorneys for Estate 202 E. 5th Street P.O. Box 400 Sterling, IL 61081 P: 815.625.8200 olson@wmpj.com
Sept. 5, 12, 19, 2025
to the Repres entative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: August 27, 2025
Janette S. Folkers, Representative Ryan M. Olson ARDC 6333161 WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C.
Attorneys for Estate 202 E. 5th Street P.O. Box 400 Sterling, IL 61081 P: 815.625.8200 olson@wmpj.com
Sept. 5, 12, 19, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, IL LINOIS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF:
BERNADINE T. MACK, deceased NO. 2025-PR-51 CL AIM NOTICE NOTICE IS GIVEN of the death of BERNADINE T. MACK of Oregon, Illinois. Letters of office were issued on August 18, 2025, to STILLMAN BANCCORP N.A , 8492 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, whose attorney is David A Smith, of Smith Law Group, P.C. at 129 South Fourth Street, P. O. Box 10, Oregon, Illinois, 61061-0010. CLAIMS against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court at Ogle County Judicial Center, 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, Illinois, 61061, or with the representative, or both, within 6 months from the first publication of this Notice, or within three months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probat e Act, 1975, as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed with in that period is barred
Copies of claims filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the estate legal representative and to the attorney within 10 days after the claim has been filed.
Joseph McCoy, Senior Trust Officer
Stillman BancCorp N.A., Independent Executor
August 29, Sept. 5, 12, 2025
N.A , 8492 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, whose attorney is David A Smith, of Smith Law Group, P.C. at 129 South Fourth Street, P. O. Box 10, Oregon, Illinois, 61061-0010.
CLAIMS against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court at Ogle County Judicial Center, 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, Illinois, 61061, or with the representative, or both, within 6 months from the first publication of this Notice, or within three months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probat e Act, 1975, as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed with in that period is barred
Copies of claims filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the estate legal representative and to the attorney within 10 days after the claim has been filed.
Joseph McCoy, Senior Trust Officer Stillman BancCorp N.A., Independent Executor August 29, Sept. 5, 12, 2025
STATE OF IL LINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY
PROBATE
DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: Roger E Cunz Deceased CASE NO 2025-PR-59 CL AIM NOTICE NOTICE is given of the death of ROGER E CUNZ, who died on May 29, 2025. Letters of Office were issued on July 25, 2025, to Roger E Cunz, Jr, 80 Riveside Road, Rockford, IL, 61114, who is the legal representative of the estate The attorney for the estate is Michael J. Smith, of Barrick, Switzer, Long, Balsley & Van Evera, LLP, 6833 Stalter Drive, Rockford, Illinois 61108. Claims against the Estate may be filed on or before March 5, 2026, that date being at least 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 18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 1975 as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed by the uisit
STATE OF IL LINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY PROBATE DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: Roger E Cunz Deceased CASE NO 2025-PR-59 CL AIM NOTICE NOTICE is given of the death of ROGER E CUNZ, who died on May 29, 2025. Letters of Office were issued on July 25, 2025, to Roger E Cunz, Jr, 80 Riveside Road, Rockford, IL, 61114, who is the legal representative of the estate
The attorney for the estate is Michael J. Smith, of Barrick, Switzer, Long, Balsley & Van Evera, LLP, 6833 Stalter Drive, Rockford, Illinois 61108.
Claims against the Estate may be filed on or before March 5, 2026, that date being at least 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 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 barred. Claims against the Estate may be filed in the Office of the Ogle County Circuit Clerk, Probate Division at the Ogle County Courthouse, 106 5th Street, Oregon, Illinois, 61061, or with the Estate legal representative, or both.
Copies of claims filed with the Circuit Clerk's Office, Probate Division, must be mailed or delivered to the Estate legal representative and to his attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: /s/Roger E Cunz, Jr, Executor Michael J. Smith
BARRICK, SWITZER, LONG, BALSLEY & VAN EVERA, LLP 6833 Stalter Drive Rockford, IL 61108 (815)962-6611 service.msmith@ bslbv.com
September 5, 12, 19, 2025
on or before March 5, 2026, that date being at least 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 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 barred. Claims against the Estate may be filed in the Office of the Ogle County Circuit Clerk, Probate Division at the Ogle County Courthouse, 106 5th Street, Oregon, Illinois, 61061, or with the Estate legal representative, or both.
Copies of claims filed with the Circuit Clerk's Office, Probate Division, must be mailed or delivered to the Estate legal representative and to his attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: /s/Roger E Cunz, Jr, Executor Michael J. Smith BARRICK, SWITZER, LONG, BALSLEY & VAN EVERA, LLP 6833 Stalter Drive Rockford, IL 61108 (815)962-6611 service.msmith@ bslbv.com
September 5, 12, 19, 2025
As sumed Name
Publication Notice Public Notice is hereby given that on August 26, 2025, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County Clerk's Office setting forth the names and postoffice address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as: BK Exteriors loca ted at 7926 S Pine St Grand Detour, IL 61021
Dated August 26, 2025.
Laura J. Cook
Laura J. Cook Ogle County Clerk
September 5, 12, 19, 2025
Publication Notice Public Notice is hereby given that on August 25, 2025, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County Clerk's Office setting forth the names and post office address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as: Cleary Exteriors Pressure Washing 389 Red Fox Dr Davis Junction, IL 61020
Dated: August 25, 2025.
s/Laura J. Cook
Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk
Sept. 5, 12, 19, 2025
Publication Notice Public Notice is hereby given that on August 25, 2025, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County Clerk's Office setting forth the names and post office address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as:
Cleary Exteriors Pressure Washing 389 Red Fox Dr Davis Junction, IL 61020
Dated: August 25, 2025.
s/Laura J. Cook
Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk Sept. 5, 12, 19, 2025
Publication Notice
Public Notice is hereby given that on August 13, 2025, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County Clerk's Office setting forth the names and post office address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as: Truck '61 11282 N. Leaf River Rd., P.O. Box 4 Leaf River, IL 61047
Dated: August 13, 2025. s/Laura J. Cook
Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk Aug. 29, Sep. 5, 12, 2025
