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Preschool classes underway at reopened May School in Rochelle
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
Stepping Stones Preschool began operations at the newly reopened May Elementary School on Aug. 19, Rochelle Elementary School District officials said.
Stepping Stones Preschool, previously inside Lincoln Elementary School, served 180 students and had a waiting list of about 40 kids last year. The district received a preschool-for-all grant for two years (fiscal 2025 and fiscal 2026) that made it consider expanding its offerings and led to the May School location at 1033 N. Second St.
May School was closed by the school board before the 2021-22 school year as the district shifted to an attendance center model due to declining enrollment and an increase in the district’s dual language program, which was previously only offered at Lincoln and Central elementary schools. The district was facing a half-full May School before the decision was made.
Stepping Stones Preschool has been expanded to seven classrooms at May School. There are morning and afternoon classes.
“I am so proud of how things are going. It has truly been better than expected,” said Yazmin Nambo, director of Stepping Stones Preschool. “While there are some minor adjustments we still need to make, overall things are going well – and that is a direct reflection of the dedication and care of our staff. Our parents have also made the transition to the new school great by being so supportive and responsive, which makes all the difference for our students.”
The district has revamped classrooms, bathrooms and offices to make the building work for a preschool, Nambo said.
May School was closed by the school board before the 2021-22 school year as the district shifted to an attendance center model due to declining enrollment and an increase in the district’s dual language program, which was previously only offered at Lincoln and Central elementary schools. The district was facing a half-full May School before the decision was made.
Parking also has been created for staff and the administration expects to have a playground ready by mid-September.
Nambo said the district’s maintenance and technology departments have been hard at work behind the scenes to make sure everything at the school is functional for staff and students to receive the best preschool experience possible.
“To support our growing program, we added another classroom and teacher to serve more preschoolers,” Nambo said. “We also added a support specialist to help with screeners, workshops, and our Birth-to-three classes. We currently have 190 students enrolled, with two on the waiting list and about 15 more to be screened.”
The district was excited to put May School back into service and serve more
ON THE COVER
preschool learners and families in the community. The expansion is a move in the direction of potentially expanding district services for children from birth to three years old in the future.
The expansion’s future will depend on whether the district continues to receive the grant. District Assistant Tony Doyle said that May School is already planned to serve multiple purposes for the district.
“Having May School be the new location for our Stepping Stones program has led us to classroom expansion, which adds 40 more students a day, an inside and outside place space and more space for specialized services,” Doyle said.
“May School will also house maintenance resources and personnel, technology workroom/storage and eventually the district’s main kitchen for food services.”
Rochelle Community Hospital is working to make the community aware of the importance of being established with a general health provider through its Family Healthcare Clinic for individual or family health care. Shown (right) is Dr. Graham Isaacson. See story on page 3.
by Jeff Helfrich
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Photo
‘Then
they finally come in and we’re playing catch-up’
RCH Family Healthcare Clinic speaks out about importance of seeing general health provider
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
Rochelle Community Hospital is working to make the community aware of the importance of being established with a general health provider through its Family Healthcare Clinic for individual or family health care.
RCH doctors and nurse practitioners have availability for new patients in their practices, with services including annual visits for blood work and checkups, immunizations and a homebase for care in the event of a sudden or chronic illness, RCH’s Dr. Graham Isaacson said Aug. 25.
Isaacson said the benefits of having a primary care provider include finding and treating diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure before they become a problem, building a relationship with familiarity and trust, cancer screenings and immunizations for shingles, pneumonia or flu, and having someone to organize patient needs such as visits to specialists.
“There are a lot of benefits to having a primary care provider,” Isaacson said. “One of the biggest things is trying to find and treat diseases before they become a problem. You might not know that anything is wrong or you might not have any symptoms, but we can screen people for things they might not know they have, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. We can do blood work to find out if patients have high cholesterol.
“Finding these things early, before someone has symptoms, can be beneficial in helping to prevent strokes, heart attacks, complications from diabetes and things like that. A lot of these things don’t show symptoms until something scary like a heart attack happens,” he said.
Regular checkups are important, even if patients aren’t experiencing a symptom that is giving them concerns, Isaacson said. In his career, he’s seen patients who have come in to see a doctor for the first time in 20 years, who were then diagnosed with high blood pressure or diabetes that had gone unknown.
Every single week I see patients who have waited too long to come and see a doctor. I see people all the time who have sky-high blood pressure or diabetes. I’ve seen people who have had unchecked diabetes for years and years. It happens a lot. Unfortunately, it happens a lot because people didn’t have insurance for many years or couldn’t afford to come in. Then they finally come in and we’re playing catch-up. It’s a very common occurrence.
“You really can feel totally fine and have a lot of things going on on the inside that your body is doing a good job of covering for,” Isaacson said. “The sooner we can find those things, the sooner we can get you treated for them and the less likely you are to end up in the hospital a few years down the line. It’s important to have regular check-ins for things like the heart, blood pressure and basic labs.”
Isaacson has been building his practice since he came to work at the RCH Family Healthcare Clinic about a year ago. RCH also has a new physician assistant in Kristi Gonzales, who is building a practice as well.
More people in the community having an established health care provider also can help to take the burden off the
RCH convenient care and emergency departments and make for shorter waits for patients who utilize same-day appointments with their established provider.
“A lot of times people go to our convenient care or emergency room when they have an ear infection or strep throat that aren’t necessarily emergent,” Isaacson said. “Having a primary care provider you can come in and see for a same-day appointment for those things benefits the patient and the hospital. It’s typically much cheaper to see a primary care doctor compared to the emergency room, and you don’t have to wait in long lines, and you get the care you need. And you’re not overtaxing the emergency room.”
General health providers at RCH can
also refer patients easily to other specialties and services offered in the hospital, including cardiologists, kidney doctors, a podiatrist, dermatologist and urologist who offer care to patients a few days a week, and a new behavioral health clinic.
Building relationships with patients is Isaacson’s favorite aspect of being a primary care physician and doing family medicine.
“Some people I see once a year and some people I see every month,” Isaacson said. “I’ve been able to build a lot of great relationships in the past 12 months. It makes a difference. I know my patients really well and they know me and what to expect. You get better care when you
See CLINIC, page 7
Dr. Graham Isaacson, Rochelle Community Hospital’s Family Healthcare Clinic
Jeff Helfrich
Rochelle Community Hospital doctors and nurse practitioners have availability for new patients in their practices, with services including annual visits for blood work and checkups, immunizations, and a homebase for care in the event of a sudden or chronic illness, RCH’s Dr. Graham Isaacson said Aug. 25.
Steward-Caron Roads Industrial Corridor Study presents draft final recommendations
Project aims to ease semi traffic through village of Steward in the future
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
On Monday, Aug. 25, a public informational meeting was held on the ongoing Steward-Caron Roads Industrial Corridor study, which is being conducted by Blackhawk Hills Regional Council at the request of the city of Rochelle, village of Steward and Lee County regarding the development between Rochelle’s southeastern industrial area and Steward.
The meeting was attended by community stakeholders and presented draft final recommendations. The study aims to improve conditions around current and future development for the best interests of the area. The Aug. 25 meeting was held at Rochelle City Hall in the council chambers. The study started in November 2023 and will conclude its findings and recommendations at the end of September.
The SCRIC Strategic Plan focuses on Steward and Caron Roads and areas accessed by the roads and considers activity within a 5-mile corridor. It looks to address current transportation issues, such as truck traffic through the village of Steward, and to keep them from getting worse in the future. The area of the study has seen industrial development in recent years and it’s expected it will see more, with multiple current ongoing projects at various levels for new development.
“If there continues to be development along this corridor, what is that going to look like in the future?” BHRC Executive Director Daniel Payette said. “We have a really good opportunity to work on that now because a lot of that area is not built out yet. We’ve taken a look at the corridor, the transportation aspects, the economic development potential, and potential conflicts between different types of industry and transportation.”
The meeting was led by Alan Meyers of WSP USA, a consultant on the project, who presented findings and a number of
draft final recommenda-
conditions around current and future development for the best interests
different plans to make for best traffic flows.
Meyers said the strengths of the corridor include diversity of existing industrial uses, recent growth showing market interest, land available for development, rail transload for interstate proximity, and established communities. Challenges include truck conflicts through Rochelle and Steward including safety, noise and emissions; rail activity, potential impacts of growth on communities, and residential, bike/ pedestrian and open space amenities, he said.
The area is predominantly industrial and agricultural, other than the village of Steward. The area also includes a planned Steward Creek Solar energy facility, the first phase of which is planned for 1,200 megawatts, which would be the largest capacity facility of its kind in the country.
The village of Steward has long had concerns about truck traffic through the village and 24-hour truck traffic counts were done during the study.
“We had about 200 trucks going eastbound on Main Street and Perry Road and about 175 going west on Main Street and Perry Road,” Meyers said. “It doesn’t sound like a lot, but it has a lot of impact. I stood there and listened to the noise and watched them clang and bang over the railroad crossing and go past
the school. It’s not a place that can accommodate a significant amount of traffic. The numbers have disproportionate impacts and we recognized that early on.”
The Aug. 25 presentation detailed concept plans to ease truck traffic through Steward that would relocate Interstate 39 southbound on and off ramps further north to bypass the village. The bypasses would be shorter, faster and avoid rail crossings.
Four similar concepts were presented, but preferred by Meyers and attendees Aug. 25 was a concept that would relocate southbound on and off ramps west of Interstate 39 between Steward and Interstate 39 with a roundabout and a new Steward and Elva Road alignment.
“It would be faster and safer for the truckers and show up on their GPS and keep trucks out of the village of Steward,” Meyers said. “It would be north of the village and would come to a roundabout or T intersection. We like roundabouts, but we’re not married to the idea. All of the access to the village would remain in place and all the roads used today could still be used.”
The plans also include potential for green space buffers between roads for noise and visuals, bike/pedestrian paths, rail improvements and land planning.
“We think this whole program has a series of value propositions,” Meyers said. “Economic value in terms of supporting the village of Steward’s future development, potential for more than 10,000 new jobs if you build out all of these parcels, and potential to drive residential development in the area. Compared to no action, your transportation value in terms of time and cost savings for users is going to be tremendous along with reductions in emissions and crashes, and community value, protecting the village to accommodate growth and provide more green space and bike/ pedestrian access.”
The estimated construction cost for the project is a total of $50 million in terms of dollar value by the time it’s completed. The project would start with three years of preliminary engineering and environmental work, before two years of applications, final plans, right of way and permits, and 2.5 years of construction for a total of 7.5 years.
“We’d have to find funding through the Illinois Department of Transportation and get it through Federal Highway Administration grants and the Federal Railroad Administration,” Meyers said. “Local contributions would be pretty nominal. It’s an expensive proposition and not easy. It has to be a long process due to the federal involvement with the interchange.”
Jeff Helfrich photos
On Monday, Aug. 25, a public informational meeting was held on the ongoing Steward-Caron Roads Industrial Corridor study. Shown is Alan Meyers, a consultant on the study who led the meeting.
The meeting was attended by community stakeholders and presented
tions. The study aims to improve
of the area.
Memorial Garden pays tribute to civic leader Diane McNeilly
‘Each role she embraced played a vital part in the shaping of the future of Rochelle’
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The city of Rochelle honored longtime community leader Diane McNeilly on Aug. 26 with a ribbon cutting and dedication of a memorial garden at North Seventh Street and 10th Avenue.
McNeilly, who died in late 2023 at the age of 79, was an active community leader and volunteer, serving on many boards and working to bring about change within the city. The city of Rochelle erected the garden at the site in recent years and chose to dedicate it to her, along with a bench that bears her name, provided by the Rochelle Kiwanis Golden K Club. The garden is near McNeilly’s former home.
The ribbon cutting and dedication were hosted by the Rochelle Chamber of Commerce and the city of Rochelle. Speakers included Chamber Executive Director Tricia Herrera, Mayor John Bearrows and McNeilly’s daughter, Kristine.
“Everyone has a story about Diane and how special she was and what she
taught them and how instrumental she was,” Herrera said. “Right up until she passed away, she was still doing all of those things and promoting Rochelle and telling everyone how wonderful it was. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate someone who was so proud of our community and steeped in the history of it. We are so fortunate.
“She was a great educator. People like that are the heart of Rochelle and are what small-town pride is all about. We are thankful to the family for sharing her with us. We’re happy that people can come to this beautiful space and have a seat on the bench and honor her and her dedication,” she said.
McNeilly worked at Kishwaukee College from 1969-2000 and served in multiple positions there, including vice president of instruction. Outside of her professional life, McNeilly had decades of involvement in the Rochelle community through a number of governing boards, nonprofits and civic organizations. She had a passion for sports and recreation, which led to her involvement in Spring Lake Pool, founding the Rochelle Rays Swim Club and serving as a Flagg-Rochelle Park District commissioner.
McNeilly also served on the Rochelle Township High School District board, the city of Rochelle’s Planning & Zon -
ing Commission and the Downtown Rochelle Association. McNeilly was integral in the creation of LOTS (LeeOgle Transportation System) and the Hub City Senior Center. That allowed for more public transportation for seniors and residents in general in the city and area, something McNeilly was passionate about. McNeilly had a passion for political activism, especially civil rights, which led to her years of leadership of Rochelle’s League of Women Voters organization.
Bearrows called McNeilly “a remarkable individual” who he remembers for dedication and commitment.
“Diane served in every role she undertook with an exceptional level of
commitment, always prioritizing the well-being of her community over her personal preferences,” Bearrows said.
“It’s fitting that we dedicate this garden and bench in her memory and even more special that this site lies behind the last house she lived in and cherished. This location symbolizes the deep roots that she planted in Rochelle and reminds us of her lasting impact on our lives.
“Diane was filled with dedication. Her contributions were vast and each role she embraced played a vital part in the shaping of the future of Rochelle,” he said.
Photos by Jeff Helfrich
On Tuesday, Aug. 26, a ribbon cutting and dedication were held for the Diane McNeilly Memorial Garden at the intersection of North Seventh Street and 10th Avenue in Rochelle.
Rochelle Mayor John Bearrows speaks at the Diane McNeilly Memorial Garden dedication on Aug. 26 in Rochelle.
Kristine McNeilly speaks during the Aug. 26 dedication of a garden honoring her late mother, Diane McNeilly.
• GARDEN TRIBUTE
Continued from page 6
Along with her community activism, McNeilly also wrote a popular “Dear Diane” column in the NewsLeader, educating readers about health and fitness and inspiring others.
“She approached her civic duties with the same seriousness and passion she devoted to her family and friends,” Bearrows said. “As we stand here today, let us remember her not only for her achievements, but for the spirit of community service she instilled in all of us. May this park serve as the Diane McNeilly Memorial Garden, a place where her memory can inspire future
• CLINIC
Continued from page 3
have a good relationship with your doctor.”
Isaacson said regular checkups can prevent more serious health care problems from compounding after going unchecked. If an issue like high blood pressure can be regulated with one medication soon, that can prevent having to be on more medications or having a greater potential to suffer a stroke or heart attack in the future.
Fear of the unknown, not having time, potential high costs and trust issues are among the reasons Isaacson estimates more people don’t see a primary care provider. RCH offers some evening hours for patients with time constraints and wants to reach out and build trust with new patients.
High-risk issues like high blood pressure and high blood sugar that can cause strokes and diabetes can often go unnoticed over time without regular check-
generations to contribute to the betterment of our community just as she did.”
Kristine McNeilly recalled attending community events with her mother, and she thanked the community for embracing her mother.
“The neat thing is this was a place that let her be who she was,” Kristine McNeilly said. “Rochelle became a place that she called home. She moved into this house behind us, overlooking this garden. This being her space is beautiful. And she loved flowers. Even though she’s not here, there’s so much of her here. This is all that she’d ever want. Thanks to the community for being a place she could be herself. She loved it here.”
ups, Isaacson said. The RCH family practice provider wants people in the community to avoid strokes that can make it hard to talk, eat and work, and to avoid diabetes that can cause kidney problems and lead to dialysis, vision loss and nerve pain.
“Every single week I see patients who have waited too long to come and see a doctor,” Isaacson said. “I see people all the time who have sky-high blood pressure or diabetes. I’ve seen people who have had unchecked diabetes for years and years. It happens a lot. Unfortunately, it happens a lot because people didn’t have insurance for many years or couldn’t afford to come in. Then they finally come in and we’re playing catch-up. It’s a very common occurrence.
“I see people all the time who haven’t seen a doctor in decades. I want people to know that they’re not the only ones coming in that haven’t seen a doctor in many years. We don’t judge people. We figure out what needs to be done and we start taking care of them,” he said.
Jeff Helfrich
Rochelle council adopts purple as official color
City recognizes Lincoln Highway Heritage Festival volunteers
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
At its meeting Monday, Aug. 25, the Rochelle City Council unanimously accepted a strategic communications plan that will see it adopt purple as the city’s official color and change branding in the coming months.
The strategic communication plan, put together by City Community Engagement Director Jenny Thompson, covered the city’s communication procedures with residents, Rochelle Municipal Utilities customers, community stakeholders and in-house employees.
The branding change came as part of the plan and the city council supported the change after reviewing survey input and public comments.
The city underwent a rebrand in 2015, and its color scheme had been primarily red since. The city’s large water tower near the overpass in the center of town recently underwent a renovation and painting, with the color purple and the city’s newer branding font after soliciting resident feedback on the design. The new paint scheme was well-received by residents. The city’s official color will now match Rochelle Township High School’s.
“We want Rochelle’s branding to reflect the heart of our community,” Thompson said in a news release. “Purple has always been a color that connects us – whether on the field, in our schools, or at community events. At a time when so much can divide us, we’re leaning into what unites us.”
The city’s logo designs will remain unchanged, with only the primary color changing. The city will begin updating signage, digital branding, and other communications materials over the coming months. Residents can expect to see the refreshed look gradually appear throughout the community.
Thompson said during the meeting that the color change will take “some time and cost” and will be budgeted for over the next two years.
“This isn’t just a color change – it’s a statement of pride,” Mayor John Bearrows said in a news release. “Rochelle is a community that honors its traditions while looking ahead to the future. By returning to purple, we’re listening to our residents and celebrating what makes the Hub City feel like home.”
Volunteers honored
The council recognized the volun -
teers who put on the Lincoln Highway Heritage Festival after it took place Aug. 15-17. The longtime Rochelle event was held at Atwood Park this year instead of its usual downtown location due to conflicts with planned city construction. “I want to thank all of you for all that you did to make an amazing weekend come together,” Bearrows said. “We all know how it is when you have a few hands doing a lot of work. You only have about 8-10 people on your committee, and I think that’s amazing. I hope more people step up and volunteer and help them.”
Baneski promoted
Promotion and swearing-in ceremonies were held for Elvis Baneski of the Rochelle Police Department, who was promoted from detective to patrol sergeant. Baneski has been with the department since 2008 and has been a detective since 2022.
“If you are going to commit a crime, this is not the guy you want coming after you,” RPD Chief Pete Pavia said. “He will go the extra mile and turn over every stone. He’s done a great job for us. I have all the faith in the world because of his patrol and investigation experience that he will do a fantastic job as sergeant.”
Birth to five
The council heard a presentation during the meeting by Abby Hoskins of Birth to Five Illinois Region 47. The organization works to help families in Ogle, Lee and Whiteside counties to access early childhood services.
Hoskins said Birth to Five Illinois’s recent work has included gathering data and families’ experiences about barriers to services, creating a regional action
See ROCHELLE, page 12
Jeff Helfrich
The Rochelle City Council recognized the volunteers who put on the Lincoln Highway Heritage Festival after it took place Aug. 15-17. The longtime Rochelle event was held at Atwood Park this year instead of its usual downtown location due to conflicts with planned city construction.
RPD acquires armored vehicle through grant program
Starts own ERT
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Rochelle Police Department recently acquired an armored vehicle and started its own emergency response team, RPD Chief Pete Pavia said Aug. 25.
RPD took delivery of the vehicle at the beginning of summer and acquired it through the federal Law Enforcement Support Office program, which allows law enforcement agencies to receive excess Department of Defense property at little to no cost to ensure that they have access to necessary resources to perform their duties effectively.
“When I took over as chief, one of the things I wanted was for RPD to have its own ERT, or SWAT team,” Pavia said. “That’s what we’ve done. We now have our own in-house SWAT team. The city council and city manager have supported it and everyone has the armor and supplies they need for it. One thing SWAT teams need is an armored vehicle. Through the LESO program, we applied for it and it’s grant funded. We kept applying and when one became available, they gave it to us. This one came from a sheriff’s office in Iowa that got another vehicle.”
Pavia said the armored vehicle originally cost the federal government $900,000. The city’s expense for it has included bringing it to town, decal work and insurance, a total of just under $8,000. The vehicle can be returned to the LESO program if the city and RPD choose they don’t want or need it anymore.
City Manager Jeff Fiegenschuh said that any time the city can get an asset for minimal expense, it should consider it. He’s excited about the benefits of the city having its own SWAT team for safety in the community, even if it’s never needed.
“I think it’s great for the community,” Fiegenschuh said. “Any time we can bring those dollars into our community is a good thing, because they’re going to go somewhere. It’s important to have the training for our officers.
You hope you never have that situation, but if you do it’s good to have everybody ready and trained for it.”
Pavia said the armored vehicle has not been used for an official call since it was acquired, but could be used in instances such as barricaded subjects or hostage situations when the SWAT team is used. The vehicle would allow first responders to safely drive up to a home or structure in a barricaded subject situation.
Before recently establishing its own SWAT team, RPD relied on the Ogle County Emergency Response Team for its needs in that area and had three officers of its own on that unit.
“To start our own just took equipment and training,” Pavia said. “Officers want to be on a SWAT team. We’re the biggest city in Ogle County and we need to be able to take care of things
like that ourselves. That’s why we have our own drug team now and SWAT team and handle everything in house. We’ll work with the Ogle County ERT if they need it, and vice versa. But we wanted to have our own.”
RPD’s SWAT team trains eight hours each month, and each involved officer has done 40 hours of basic SWAT training school. There are two commanders of the team that lead the training that have advanced certification, Pavia said. Training is done on a different topic each month. RPD currently has 10 officers on its SWAT team and Pavia said the plan is to continue to grow that number.
“It’s just a matter of the expense and equipment with things like ballistic vests and shields,” Pavia said. “It’s a big expense. I’d like to get to the point where every single officer on the
department is ERT certified. Just because if you roll up on a scene that requires ERT experience, they’ll be ready. Then we could even split two teams up for on-call purposes.”
Pavia said the armored vehicle will also be available to neighboring communities for mutual aid if it its needed, and can also be used for community outreach, such as parades and the National Night Out event.
The emphasis behind RPD having its own armored vehicle and SWAT team was to make response times to potential situations as quick as possible, Pavia said.
“The last couple trainings our team has done have been with a call out so we can tell how long it takes,” Pavia said. “It’s something I hope we never have to use. But if we need it, I’ll be glad we have it.”
The last couple trainings our team has done have been with a call out so we can tell how long it takes. It’s something I hope we never have to use. But if we need it, I’ll be glad we have it.”
Pete Pavia, Rochelle Police Department chief
Jeff Helfrich
The Rochelle Police Department recently acquired an armored vehicle and started its own emergency response team, RPD Chief Pete Pavia said. Aug. 25.
Whiteside career center prepares teens for law enforcement
By BRANDON CLARK bclark@shawmedia.com
While their classmates head to math or English, students at the Whiteside Area Career Center are taking part in mock trials and learning how to deescalate suspects – all as part of real-world law enforcement training.
The program provides high school students from across the Sauk Valley with hands-on experience in criminal justice, preparing them for careers in law enforcement, corrections and related fields through classroom instruction and scenario-based learning.
“The program mimics if they were ever to get hired by a police department,” instructor Michael Wolfley said. “I set it up throughout the year... as if they’re going through a police academy. I run them through the same type of situations, scenarios and training.”
The program’s major objectives include:
• History of law enforcement
• Constitutional law
• Illinois law
• Courts and the legal system
• Communication and dispatch operations
• Report writing and records
• Criminal investigations
• Search and seizure
• Community relations
• Patrol functions
• Traffic investigations
• Corrections
• Private security operations
• Criminology and other related areas
Students also visit the Whiteside and Lee County jails, hear from local attorneys and judges, go on ride-alongs with local officers, and participate in mock tri-
als and real-world law enforcement scenarios where they are tasked with making tough decisions.
“In a couple of weeks, we’ll be doing taser training, and then they’ll be going into scenarios with a partner, where they’ll encounter somebody,” Wolfley said. “They’re going to have to decide if they can talk them down with verbal directions, or does the person rise to a threat level where they gotta tase them or possibly rise to a situation where they gotta use lethal force?”
Wolfley hopes to take the program a step further with the addition of a shooting simulator – a tool that would allow students to practice high-pressure decision-making in a safe, controlled environment. He plans to buy the equipment using a recent donation from the Whiteside County CrimeStoppers.
“It’d be nice to get a squad car donated to us someday,” Wolfley said. “The nice thing with that is when we do our traffic stop scenarios, Sterling has been gracious every year, letting us use one of their older squad cars.”
Since retiring from the Dixon Police Department, Wolfley’s broader mission has been to spark long-term interest in law enforcement careers and build up the region’s future public safety workforce.
“The goal was for me to come here and help regain that interest in our area youth... so that maybe we feed some kids into the Sauk [Valley Community College] program, and then build our own local talent so that everybody can have good officers coming up the pipe in the future,” Wolfley said.
Milledgeville High School senior
Brandon Clark
Instructor Michael Wolfley speaks to his criminal justice program students at the Whiteside Area Career Center in Sterling.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Rock River Center activities
Rock River Center is a resource center located at 810 S. 10th St., Oregon. Activities and trips are open to all ages.
Call the office at 815-732-3252 for assistance with Benefit Access Application for a license plate discount, Medicare, housing, homemaker service, heating assistance or other issues.
Visit rockrivercenter.org and like them on Facebook.
Morning Mug Club
Sept. 9: 9-10:30 a.m.
Outing of the Month
Sept. 11: Franklin Creek Grist Mill. New wildlife display and lunch. Registration and payment by Sept. 8
Free Bingo
Sept. 9: Bingo starts at 12:15 p.m.
Rock River Clarinet Collective
Sept. 15: 1-2 p.m. Registration requested by Sept. 11.
Meets 2-3 p.m. the fourth Wednesday in February, May, August and November. 24-hour advance registration required. Individual meetings available upon request.
Caregiver Support Group
Meets 10-11:30 a.m. third Tuesday of the month.
Diabetic Support Group
Meets 10:30 a.m. to noon first Wednesday of the month.
Low Vision Group
Meets from noon to 1:30 p.m. second and fourth Tuesday of the month.
For more information on any of the support groups, call Rock River Center at 815-732-3252 or 800-541-5479.
– Shaw Local News Network
Image provided by the city of Rochelle
At its meeting Monday, Aug. 25, the Rochelle City Council unanimously accepted a strategic communications plan that will see it adopt purple as the city’s official color and change branding in coming months. The branding change came as part of the plan and the City Council supported the change after reviewing survey input and public comments.
• ROCHELLE
Continued from page 8
plan, and looking to increase the amount of early childhood resources for local families.
The organization’s next objectives will focus on early childhood mental and behavioral health resources and continued community collaboration. More information can be found at www. birthtofiveil.com/region47.
Pickwick property sale
The council unanimously approved
an ordinance authorizing the sale of city-owned property at 1414 Pickwick Drive for $6,000.
In July, the city issued a request for proposals for the purchase of the property, which is about .29 acres in size and zoned residential. The city had the property appraised at $25,000, but was not required to sell it for at least 80 percent of the appraised value due to conducting a public RFP process. The buyers of the property reside in the adjacent property and plan to use it as additional outdoor space for their family. The property can’t be built on due to the utilities that run through it.
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
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
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
Spring Lake Pool sees highest attendance in 5 years
‘It shows that all the work and effort it takes to open it every year is worth it’
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
Spring Lake Pool in Rochelle saw its highest attendance numbers in 5 years this summer, Flagg-Rochelle Community Park District Director of Recreation
Maureen Stevens said Aug. 21.
The park district attributed the high numbers at the outdoor pool to a hotter-than-normal summer, which also necessitated creativity with staffing, such as shift swaps so staff could have extra breaks and rotations to stay cool and sharp.
Stevens said the park district hires more than 40 staff members for each summer, regardless of expected attendance or temperatures. More staff were scheduled for shifts this summer to deal with larger crowds. The park district was happy to see high numbers this summer to increase revenue and provide a place for area residents to beat the heat.
“Spring Lake has always been a community feature,” Stevens said. “Just knowing that it’s still in people’s hearts is reassuring. It shows that all the work and effort it takes to open it every year is worth it because you get to see the happiness on everyone’s faces.”
Spring Lake’s amenities also include a splash pad, which is available with admission during open pool hours and available for free when the pool is closed. That helped it to provide another way to residents to cool off outside of the pool’s 10-week season.
The facility also offers swimming lessons and a swim team, which serves to bring more residents to the pool and teach water safety. Five sponsored community swims were held this summer that offered free admission for residents, courtesy of Central Bank, Rochelle Community Hospital, the City of Rochelle, First State Bank and the Community Action Network.
With the help of an OSLAD grant, the longtime Rochelle public pool facility underwent $620,000 worth of renovations a few years ago that included the addition of the splash pad, patching and repainting of pools, new shade umbrellas, an upgraded locker room with LED lighting, 16 new lower entrance parking
stalls, new fencing and revamped landscaping.
Stevens said recent reinvestment has also included new decking, and an overhaul of the filter to help with water clarity and chemistry. The park district has plans to upgrade pool heaters before next summer.
“The board had the foresight to know that Spring Lake has always been a beloved location in Rochelle and that just doesn’t disappear overnight,” Stevens said. “Being able to reinvest those funds back into Spring Lake and something people love is completely worth it. We’re so thankful the board was willing to make that investment a few years ago
to help keep things running smoothly.”
Stevens said hiring seasonal staff for Spring Lake is a “massive undertaking”, with lifeguards, maintenance, customer service and coaching personnel needed. The hiring process typically begins in February.
Amid hotter recent summers, the park district is thankful for high attendance numbers, along with its new amenities that can help keep residents cool.
Other public outdoor pools in the area and region have gone by the wayside in recent years, but Spring Lake has not. Stevens said the facility saw “a huge influx” of nonresidents utilizing the pool this year, and expects that to continue.
“While Spring Lake is always for our residents, having that extra revenue from outside of the community really only helps us,” Stevens said. “The fact that other entities in surrounding areas have closed their pools and are going to splash pad only or no water at all is understandable when you look at it from financial and risk management standpoints. But keeping it community oriented and the benefits of Spring Lake far outweigh all of that risk and cost for us. All we can do is train our staff the best we can to make sure we can keep the community safe. I think everyone would agree that still having Spring Lake is worth that effort.”
Jeff Helfrich
Spring Lake Pool in Rochelle saw its highest attendance numbers in five years this summer, Flagg-Rochelle Community Park District Director of Recreation Maureen Stevens said Aug. 21.
CCR knocks Eagles out of Jamboree top spot
By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Move over, Eagles – CCR has the top spot now.
Fortunate Sons, a Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band, closed out the 2025 Jamboree Music Series in Mt. Morris in record-breaking style Friday, Aug.29.
“We have 2,500 tonight and that is a new all-time record,” said Larry Ubben, Jamboree organizer, grinning ear-toear as the band played its final set during the two-hour, free concert.
The four-member band had the large crowd rockin’ as they cranked out popular tunes accompanied by guitar solos and spot-on vocals at the Warren Reckmeyer Bandshell.
Chairs filled the lawn circling the bandshell, with some concert-goers securing their viewing spots hours before the music began at 7 p.m.
Heartache Tonight, an Eagles tribute band, held the attendance record for one week, bringing in 2,200 on Aug. 22.
The dance area directly in front of the bandshell was filled with concert-goers moving to the music as temperatures dipped in the mid-60s and the band cranked out fan favorites.
Other attendance totals for this year included 1,400 set by Rocks Off, a Rolling Stones tribute band; Brass from the Past, playing a selection of Motown, soul and rock tunes, 1,350; and the Chicago Tribute Anthology, a tribute band for the iconic band Chicago, 1,200.
The Mt. Morris Fire Protection District summed up the 2025 concert series with this post on social media: “Couldn’t have asked for a better night to close out the 2025 season of the Mt. Morris Jamboree. The Fortunate Sons brought in a record-smashing crowd of over 2,500 tonight. We are honored to serve our community and think events like this show what a hidden gem it is.
Fortunate Sons topped that mark with chairs stretching across South Wesley Avenue, east of the bandshell, which is closed for traffic during the concerts.
“Thank you to all who safely visited our community, and a special thank you to Larry Ubben for all his hard work to bring his dream of Mt. Morris as a musical destination to fruition.”
Earleen Hinton
A member of Fortunate Sons, a Creedence Clearwater tribute band, plays a guitar solo during the Jamboree Concert Series in Mt. Morris on Friday, Aug. 29.
$4.1M Oregon fire station expansion project on schedule and on budget
Project will double the size of the current facility
By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Construction of a $4.1 million renovation and expansion of the 40-year-old Oregon fire station is proceeding on schedule and on budget.
Workers began setting the forms to pour concrete last week after fill was brought in to shore up the ground under the new addition that will double the size of the current facility.
“We anticipated that we would be putting fill in. We knew that area had been filled previously with old concrete, so we wanted to be sure we had a solid base to work with, so that was all in the original plan,” Oregon Fire Chief Michael Knoup said. “It is my understanding that it was a lumber yard at one time.
“We’re on track and on budget.”
The existing station, 100 Washington St., is on the west bank of the Rock River next to the Route 64 bridge on the north side of the state highway.
In January, the Oregon City Council voted unanimously to approve a zoning variance and special-use permit for the fire district to expand the station despite it being located in the city’s River Front Commercial District.
About 100 people squeezed into the council’s chambers or watched from the hallway as commissioners went against a Jan. 21 recommendation by the Oregon Planning Commission not to endorse the request, opting to approve the measure by a 4-0 vote, with one recusal.
The fire station was built in 1985 and grandfathered into the River Front Commercial District when that district was formed in 2016. The variance and special-use permit were needed because the fire district is planning “significant changes” to the station that would make it “nonconforming” to the River Front district.
The council’s decision followed a presentation by Knoup detailing the planned expansion and how it will be funded.
The expansion is needed to accom-
modate larger emergency vehicles, consolidate all fire apparatuses and equipment under one roof, and provide more living quarters for full-time firefighters and paramedics.
Knoup said the expansion project will take 14-16 months to complete and will be done in three phases.
“We are looking to have the steel supports put up this month. The build-
ing shell should be up by the end of October,” Knoup said.
Fire district trustees decided that moving the fire station to a new location and rebuilding from scratch would be too costly for taxpayers, estimating that cost at $8 million to $10 million.
The proposed expansion is being funded through existing capital funds combined with bonds and grants with-
out any increase in the district’s property tax levy, Knoup said.
Consolidating all vehicles and apparatuses in one location will increase efficiency and decrease response times, which can make a difference in saving lives and property, Knoup said, noting that in 2024, the fire department rescued 26 people from the river. He also said calls for service increased from 400 in 1985 to 1,200 last year, with 80% of those being ambulance calls.
“The citizens of Oregon and its tourists are our priority,” Knoup said during the January meeting.
In the years since the existing station was built, the district has transitioned from an all-volunteer force to a combination of paid full-time and volunteer staff, employing nine full-time members working in three shifts, with three members per shift, Knoup said.
“I want to thank the public for their continued support. We are right on target,” Knoup said.
Earleen Hinton
Construction workers were busy Aug. 27 at the Oregon Fire Station expansion site. The current fire station can be seen in the background.
Image provided by the Oregon Fire Protection District
This drawing shows the planned expansion of the Oregon Fire Station.
Illinois Route 72 work underway
The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that construction on Illinois Route 72 in Ogle County began Sept. 2. The work zone is from Illinois Route 26 in Forreston to Mt. Morris Road just west of the village of Leaf River.
The $5.3 million project will mill and resurface the road. There will be daily lane closures, with traffic controlled by flaggers. All work is expected to be complete by early June 2026.
Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zone areas, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.
RCHA annual meeting is Sept. 30
The annual meeting of the Rochelle Community Hospital Association will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 30, at Alfano’s
• TRAINING PROGRAM
Continued from page 10
Kayden Knutti said he is considering pursuing a career in law enforcement at the state or federal level.
“I find the career path fascinating, and I want to help people,” Knutti said. “I really enjoy the different scenarios. We did one on cuffing people. It’s just not something I expected we’d actually get to do in the class.”
Morrison High School senior Ryan Peppers said he plans to study criminal justice at Sauk Valley Community College after graduation.
“I’ve wanted to be a cop ever since I was little. That or the Army,” Peppers said. “I’d like to be a Morrison cop or somewhere local. This class is great. Instead of sitting around for eight hours, you get to do hands-on stuff.”
Wolfley said several former students have gone on to careers in dispatch and corrections, including positions at state prisons. Now in his fifth year of teaching, he is starting to see his earliest students reach the age to enter law enforcement.
“I just had my very first student graduate from the Sauk [Valley Community College] police academy, and he’s joined
Pizzeria & Italian
Restaurant.
The RCHA was adopted in 1965 to engage the community to support the hospital in meeting the healthcare needs of the greater Rochelle area. Members of the association are required to pay a membership fee of $25 per year or $1,000 for a lifetime membership. You must be a member of the association to attend the annual meeting.
Each qualified member of the corporation shall have the right to attend any annual or special membership meeting of the corporation and to take part in the discussion of any subject that may be properly brought before any such meeting of the corporation.
Those interested in attending the annual meeting or needing more information should contact Kim Louis at 815-561-3107 or klouis@rcha.net.
– Shaw Local News Network
the Sterling PD,” Wofley said. “Another student is joining the academy this spring, and a third student just asked if he could use me for a reference and will be testing in the area soon. I always tell the seniors to get ahold of me when the time comes and I’ll help any way I can.”
Although he knows that not every student who takes the program will pursue a career in law enforcement, Wolfley hopes the experience leaves a lasting, positive impact.
“I hope that they leave a better person,” Wolfley said. “I like to see the kids come in from the different schools. In the first couple of weeks, everybody’s quiet. But by the end of the year, they’ve gelled together and formed some good bonds. I’ve seen some good friendships between other schools form, and that’s the best thing.”
The WACC is a cooperative endeavor of 16 member school districts and three parochial schools, educating students who come from five counties: Bureau, Carroll, Lee, Ogle and Whiteside, according to WACC’s website. Most of the population is from Sterling, Rock Falls and Dixon, with the remainder residing in surrounding rural areas and small towns.
For more information, visit wacc. com.
Rochelle FFA cleans up Kyle
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Rochelle Township High School
Photos provided by Rochelle Township High School FF
The Rochelle Township High School FFA recently completed its annual Kyte Creek cleanup. Each year the FFA removes trash from the local waterway.
Ogle County GOP dinner sets new records
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Ogle County Republican Party’s annual Lowden Day Dinner, held at the River’s Edge Experience in Oregon, was a resounding success, shattering fundraising and attendance records.
The event, honoring former Illinois Gov. Frank O. Lowden (1917-1921), drew the largest crowd in over two decades and raised unprecedented funds for the organization.
“This was a historic night for our party,” said Michael Koolidge, chairman of the Ogle County Republican Party since 2022 and master of ceremonies. “We were thrilled to feature Pastor Corey Brooks, ‘The Rooftop Pastor,’ whose powerful message inspired everyone in attendance. What a great way to gear up for this upcoming election season. We had more attendees and raised more total funds than at any other Lowden Day Dinner in decades.”
The evening featured two comedians: local talent Lisa Janes, whose family has historical ties to Lowden, and Chicago-based conservative comedian Jayson Cross, whose witty tales of Windy City life had the audience in stitches.
Pastor Corey Brooks, the keynote speaker, captivated attendees with stories of his 437-day total rooftop vigil in Chicago’s harsh winters to fund Project H.O.O.D. (Helping Others Obtain Des-
Chesney; state Rep. Brad Fritts; County Board members Joe Simms, Aaron Mudge and Brian Daws; and Oregon school board member Gary Schrimpsher.
Several 2026 statewide election candidates, including two U.S. Senate hopefuls, were also present, with petitions available for governor, U.S. Senate, Congress, Secretary of State, Comptroller and other offices.
The event was sponsored by Darin LaHood for Congress, Don Tracy for U.S. Senate and Bryan Drew for Illinois Comptroller.
tiny). His organization’s Leadership and Economic Opportunity Center, built through donations, is transforming lives in underserved communities by training former gang members and others in skilled trades.
Brooks also announced his next bold initiative: a coast-to-coast walk across the U.S., starting Sept. 1. Covering 54 cities and an estimated 6 million steps, Brooks will advocate for those trapped in cycles of violence and poverty.
“I’m walking for every young man who doesn’t believe he’ll see his 21st birthday, for every mother praying her son makes it home, and for every forgotten neighborhood,” Brooks said. “We can’t wait anymore.”
The dinner, catered by Ralfie’s BBQ & Catering of Rochelle, featured chicken kebabs, pork chop loins, salads, rolls, mashed potatoes and mac and cheese, with GOP-themed cookies from Dee’s Dough Jo.
A silent auction offered unique items, including Kennay Farms Distilling products, Trump Triumphant signs, a necklace, and Crossroads Blues Society concert tickets. The live auction’s highlight was a decorative case with Kennay Farms’ first Double Oaked Bourbon, complete with glasses and a decanter.
Notable attendees included House Minority Leader Tony McCombie; state Sens. Li Arellano Jr. and Andrew
The annual “Ogle GOP Republican of the Year” award was given to George Wilhelmsen, and “Ogle GOP Volunteer of the Year” was presented to Kaleb Kennay.
To cap off the night, the Ogle County Republican Party presented Pastor Brooks with a $1,000 donation to support Project H.O.O.D.’s transformative work, collected from a portion of the proceeds raised that evening.
Follow Brooks’ Walk Across America and support his mission at projecthood.org/walkacrossamerica.
The Ogle County Republican Central Committee, established in 1989, is dedicated to electing principled Republicans to public office. Learn more at oglecountygop.org or follow on Facebook at facebook.com/OgleCountyRepublicans.
Photos provided by Ogle GOP
The Ogle County Republican Party’s annual Lowden Day Dinner, held at the River’s Edge Experience in Oregon, was a resounding success, shattering fundraising and attendance records. The event, honoring former Illinois Gov. Frank O. Lowden (1917-1921), drew the largest crowd in over two decades and raised unprecedented funds for the organization.
The Ogle GOP Volunteer of the Year award was presented to Kaleb Kennay.
The Ogle GOP Republican of the Year award was given to George Wilhelmsen.
Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County to raffle off playhouse and shed
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County is excited to once again bring the opportunity for a local family to win a 6-by-10-foot hand-crafted playhouse thanks to Oregon High School’s FFA Ag Construction class.
And new this year is the addition of a second raffle of an 8-by-10-foot storage shed, thanks to Byron High School’s Construction Class. Both high school classes worked hard during the school year, building and learning the ins and outs of construction. The high schools have generously donated these items to help Habitat raise funds to buy building materials for future projects.
Raffle tickets are being sold at various locations as well as through the Habitat website at habitatoglecounty.
org. Only 500 tickets will be sold for each raffle. Tickets cost $10 each, or three can be bought for $25. The winning ticket for the playhouse raffle will be drawn Sept. 19 at the Oregon High School homecoming game. The winning ticket for the shed raffle will be drawn Oct. 17, the evening of the Byron High School homecoming game.
For more details on the raffles, go to habitatoglecounty.org, follow Habitat of Ogle County’s Facebook page, or contact Sheri Anspaugh at sheri.anspaugh45@outlook.com.
The mission of Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County is to seek to put God’s love into action by bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope. Since 2002, Habitat has built 14 houses in Ogle County, along with countless critical home repairs and mobility projects. For more information, visit habitatoglecounty.org.
Photo provided by Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County is excited to once again bring the opportunity for a local family to win a hand-crafted playhouse thanks to Oregon High School’s FFA Ag Construction class. And new this year is the addition of a second raffle of a storage shed thanks to Byron High School’s Construction Class.
Mt. Morris StrawFest ends with bale races, music and sculpture winners
By EARLEEN HINTON
Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Perfect weather graced the final day of the 10th Annual StrawFest Sculpting Contest in Mt. Morris on Aug. 23 and a light wind even made it a bit easier – at least psychologically – for the seven teams that lined up to push a several-hundred-pound straw bale down a portion of South Wesley Avenue.
The annual sculpting contest culminated with the daylong event that included music, the straw bale race, and the announcement of which straw creation won this year’s contest.
Four straw sculptures were entered in this year’s competition, with visitors and artists casting votes for their favorite.
Taking first place honors in both the People’s Choice and Artist’s Choice divisions was “Chicken Jockey” by father-daughter duo Mark and Danica Rogers of Rochelle.
“Turkey In The Straw” by Chris and Cecilia Mann of Rockford was second place in People’s Choice and second place in Artists’ Choice.
“Taft’s Treasure in Ogle County” by Doreen Hartman of Mt. Morris took third place in People’s Choice.
“King of the Leaves” by Steve Lentz of Montello, Wisconsin, was third place in the Artists’ Choice division.
Seven teams competed in this year’s bale race, in which large, round bales are rolled down a section of Wesley Avenue by teams of two people. Each race is timed and $50 goes to the team that crosses the finish line first.
This year’s winners were 17-yearolds Sawyer Marceau of Polo and Zakkary West of Mt. Morris.
“We both lift weights,” West said after edging out the Rockford team of Jerry Rumple and Keith Kelly in the finals, 9.06 seconds to 9.32 seconds. Their strategy?
“We didn’t have one, we just showed up,” Marceau said. “We raced last year, so we kinda knew what we were doing.”
Marceau works on his family farm and estimated the bale to weigh between 600-700 pounds. Other contestants and organizers said the bales could weigh upwards of 1,000 pounds. Either way, the teens kept the big bale in a somewhat straight line en route to the win in
“Chicken
the finals.
In full disclosure, Marceau admitted that his cousin, Rick Nelson of Mt. Morris, provided this year’s bales.
“The bale did come from a relative of mine,” Marceau said, smiling.
The day’s events also included food booths, vendor booths, live music, kids’ games, and a blacksmith demonstration.
The U.S. National Straw Sculpting Competition started in Rochelle in 2016, after artist Fran Volz visited the small village of Höchenschwand, Germany, which hosts an annual straw-sculpting competition that draws thousands of visitors. The event moved to Mt. Morris in 2017, where it is hosted by Encore! Mt. Morris.
According to competition rules, sculptures must be a minimum of 6.5 feet in height, length or width and at least 90% straw on the surface.
Photos by Earleen Hinton
Jockey” won the 2025 U.S. National Straw Sculpting Competition in Mt. Morris. It was created by Danica and Mark Rogers of Rochelle.
Sawyer Marceau of Polo and Zakkary West of Mt. Morris roll a large round straw bale down Wesley Avenue and across the finish line in Mt. Morris during the Straw Bale Race at Strawfest on Aug. 23. The 17-year-olds won the event with the fastest time of 9.36 seconds.
LYLE ORLIN DEUTH
Born: March 9, 1925
Died: August 31, 2025
CHANA, IL – Lyle Orlin Deuth, age 100, passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at his home in Chana, IL, with his loving wife by his side. He was born March 9, 1925, at his family farm 3 miles north of Polo on Goose Hollow Road. He was greeted by his parents Millard & Mary (Coffman) Deuth and brother Elwin. Followed later by his sister Carol (Duncan). He attended the Excelsior School; a one-room country school that both his parents and his father’s parents had gone to. He graduated from Polo Community High School class of 1943. Lyle earned the American Farmer Degree in the FFA.
During WWII farm boys were exempt from the draft because both the armed forces and the civilians at home required food. Toward the end of the war, a shortage of armed forces meant that two men from the same family farm could not be exempt. The Navy needed trained electronics personnel and created a program to fill the gap. Tests were given to volunteers. 500,00 men took the test and 30,000 passed. Lyle was in the Navy March 1945 thru July 1946 and went to school in Chicago, Great Lakes, and Corpus Christi, Texas. He received an honorable discharge as an Aviation Electronics Technician mate, second class.
On April 11, 1951, Lyle married Donna Marie Heng at the Chana United Methodist Church. They eventually had four sons, Stuart, Russell, Duane and Robert, a daughter Roxanne (who only lived for 5 days) and an adopted daughter, Liz. After farming for six years, they moved to Chana where Lyle became manager of Griffith Lumber & Grain Co. in 1962. Approximately one million
bushels of grain storage capacity and a grain dryer were added before he retired. In 1971, he suffered a back injury which was with him for the rest of his life.
After retirement, he and Donna traveled the world. They visited all 50 states and 38 foreign countries during their wonderful life together. April 8, 2015, was a very special day for Lyle. He took an Honor Flight from Chicago to Washington D.C. to attend a special ceremony at the WWII memorial. Since he had been inducted into the Navy near the end of the war and was still in training when the war ended. He often wasn’t treated as a true veteran. This day he was thanked numerous times for his service to his country by people of all ages from 5 to 95. After this day, he often wore his Navy cap and was surprised at how often a stranger would come to him and say, “Thank you.”
Lyle was predeceased by his parents, brother Elwin (Betty), sister Carol (Robert) Duncan, infant daughter Roxanne, son Russell, and grandson Joey Deuth.
He is survived by his wife Donna of Chana, sons Stuart (Linda) of Chana, Duane of Chana, Robert (Joanna) of Oregon, daughter Elizabeth (David) Dibbles of Oregon, 6 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, at the Chana United Methodist Church between the hours of 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. A funeral service honoring his life will be held immediately following the visitation at 11:00 AM at the church with Pastor Dave Rogula of Lighthouse Church and Pastor Josh Brown of Chana United Methodist Church. Lyle will then be laid to rest at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens of Dixon, IL. Memorial donations are established in his name and may be directed to either Serenity Hospice & Home of Oregon, IL or the Chana United Methodist Church. To leave an online condolence or plant a tree in Lyle’s memory, please visit www.farrellhollandgale.com.
Not in your backyard? Let our state officials know
CONSIDER THIS
Reed Harris
Many of you may think that what is happening in ICE raids with immigrants, and some citizens, and those that protest by marching, those at sitins at universities, troops in your backyard and detention camps being built, won’t happen to you or those you love or your friends.
Hopefully, then, your family and friends are white, or your children won’t fall in love with someone of color. Hopefully, your children won’t go to a university and feel a need to protest. Hopefully, if you or someone you care for is not a citizen, then they have all the paperwork needed to show that they belong here and, hopefully, that will be it. Hopefully, troops won’t march in your streets, ever, or detention camps won’t be built near you. Hopefully, you live in a state that will allow you to vote. Remember, state voting regulations apply to every state citizen.
It’s not only the public that needs to be thinking about the future. Take, for instance, our Congress. It’s very interesting how Republicans in Congress keep voting with the president. I imagine that they think that when Congress is dismantled or restructured that they will stay in power, along with the president. If you are one of these people, ask yourself, what does the president need you for if this happens? If he requires a few people to stay in a restructured Congress, to give him a “look” of being a president of the people, like Russia, why would he need 535 bodies? Good
luck with that.
One thing we, as citizens, are going to have to learn to do is to say “hi” to as many people as we can and then ask them how their day is going. Whether we are walking down the street, in a subway, on a march, or whatever the circumstance, this is the least we can do to show a small bit of comfort to others.
It doesn’t matter what their political preference is or their “looks or vibe,” simply say “Hi, how is your day going?” Yet there is one more thing that we should do in conjunction with this. Listen to their answer. Without doing this, the greeting doesn’t mean anything. By listening, we are saying we care about their answer. If necessary, we may have to stop for a short conversation. This will hopefully help them to have a better day and even feel better about their current situations. And many of them will be in situations they need to feel better about.
Let’s refocus now and talk about a few of the recent actions of President Donald Trump. He now is taking on The Smithsonian because they are too woke. “As President Trump promised, the Trump Administration is committed to rooting out Woke and divisive ideology in our government and institutions,”
White House spokesperson Davis Ingle said. This quote can be found at tinyurl. com/ytfrkwb2.
First, the Merriam-Webster definition of woke: “Aware of and actively attentive to important societal facts and issues [especially issues of racial and social justice].” Although there is an emphasis on racial and social justice, this definition refers to all of us. Do you think we should just forget that there was slavery, indigenous cruelty and Japanese internment, to name a few?
Hopefully, troops won’t march in your streets, ever, or detention camps won’t be built near you. Hopefully, you live in a state that will allow you to vote. Remember, state voting regulations apply to every state citizen.
Do you think that we would never again do these kinds of acts if we forgot? Aren’t we again doing the same thing to many different races with our handling of immigrants? Are people who consider themselves woke really divisive or create disunity or dissension?
Another action by the president was the Executive Order on Elections. “President Trump recently issued an executive order containing election policies that have traditionally been the purview of states.” This quote came from tinyurl.com/43um773s. Of course, this will be played out in court. My simple reply is Why? Why would an executive order that is blatantly against constitutional law even be followed? This can be said of many of the executive orders that President Trump has signed. Why are these not ignored? Why are these even allowed? Would you say that when it comes to President Trump’s second term that the Constitution doesn’t even exist for this administration?
Again, about elections, Trump said the following. “Vladimir Putin, smart guy, said, ‘You can’t have an honest election with mail-in voting,’ ” Trump said. “And he said there’s not a country in the world that uses it now.” This is from tinyurl.com/2pk3ex6t. Of course,
this is all a lie. There are several U.S. states that only allow mail-in voting. And in the same article mentioned above, the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance notes that 34 countries allow some form of postal voting, although some have restrictions on which voters can use the method. Why would anyone ever listen to Putin anyway? On the website rferl. org, they note that “Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed into law a new measure that allows elections at all levels and referendums to be conducted by mail and via the internet, according to the Kremlin’s website.” This was in 2020, so is Putin just blowing smoke in his conversation with Trump? Duh!
This is just a small fraction of the things our president is trying to accomplish. Is this Democracy? Are these actions following the Constitution that has taken 250 years to write and clarify? “Many have said,” to take a quote from our president, that there are no ‘teeth’ in our Constitution and laws. No way to squelch any attempts to change things. Do you agree? Can we do anything about it?
We can march. We can protest. We can write articles. But also, we can call our elected officials in Congress, Republican and Democrat, and tell them to start doing something for us, the ones who voted them in. We can also call or write the president with the same message. We also can let our state officials, from the governor down, know that we don’t want troops in our cities, ICE on our soil, nor anyone dictating what our elections look like. This is our state, not theirs.
• Reed Harris is a longtime Rochelle resident and community volunteer.
Trump Derangement Syndrome: An old problem with a new name
VIEWS
Chuck Roberts
Trump derangement syndrome is an affliction of mostly the leftists in the country. TDS can be defined as a personal behavior where one views everything that Trump does as bad. For instance, if the current president discovered a cure for cancer, ended all the wars around the world, or eliminated poverty, many of our leftist brethren would find negativity in these accomplishments, insisting that he should also have cured heart disease or diabetes.
TDS has its origin with the columnist and psychiatrist, Charles Krauthammer, who coined the term Bush derangement syndrome during the George W. Bush administration. He defined the syndrome as “the acute onset of paranoia in otherwise normal people in reaction to the policies.” The term has evolved from “Obama Derangement Syndrome” (2008) and “Clinton Derangement Syndrome” (2016), resulting in today’s TDS. According to psychologist Dr. Brad Brenner of the Therapy Group DC, TDS “is a partisan insult, not a psychiatric diagnosis” based on his review of The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM5). Just because TDS is not listed as a disorder does not necessarily mean it does not exist. For instance, in DSM-5, the diagnosis of “gender identity disorder” was changed to “gender dysphoria” in 2013, making it a diagnosis with less of a stigma. At that time, there were no breakthroughs in treating this disorder, suggesting that the change in DSM-5 could be characterized as political in nature.
A bill in the Ohio legislature was introduced to require the National Institute of Health to study TDS concerning this toxic state of mind that has
divided the country and has led to violence across the country, including assassination attempts on the current president. The research goal is to identify the basic cause and identify solutions. The Minnesota Legislature is reviewing a bill to classify TDS as a mental illness and add it to the amended statutes as a legal definition. It would be interesting to see if the definition of TDS is included in the next version of DSM if this legislation passes.
Dr. Brenner said that TDS may be taking a toll on a person’s physiology as indicated by these four characteristics. Struggling to disconnect from political news might lead to irritability, so take a step back.
Take control over what information is coming to you. For example, when scrolling through Facebook, if you pause and read about a particular topic, more content related to that subject matter will be sent to you. If you stop at a specific political page, then expect more political posts to be sent to you.
If political conversation increases another person’s anger, don’t engage. Political discussions may result in the loss of friendships with others, so Brenner advises choosing how much energy one desires to invest in these discussions.
Finally, if a person experiences headaches or trouble sleeping, these are signs that political stress is taking a toll. Brenner offers three guideposts:
• Be self-aware by noticing how you react to political discussions, such as changes in mood, a racing heart and “spiraling” thoughts.
• Manage your emotions by stepping away from the politics and doing something enjoyable like taking a walk, cooking, going for a swim – anything that brings calm to your psychological well-being.
• Talk to a psychiatrist.
Chuck Roberts is a Rochelle resident and the owner of the Roberts Armory World War II Museum.
Warranty deeds
• Tiffany Cravatta to Jacob Michael Hedden, 511 E. Buffalo St., Polo, $117,500.
• Marilyn L Gecan, deceased by heirs, to Zachary R Harden, 902 S. Third St., Oregon, $187,000.
• Dan Luepkes to F3 Realty Mm LLC, one parcel in Mt. Morris Township: 08-26-426011, $127,500.
• Mt Morris Church Of The Brethren to Rodney R Caldwell and Denise L Caldwell, 202 W. Center St., Mt.Morris, $65,000.
• Domingo Ortega-Ortega and Domingo Ortega Ortega to Michael Wolf and Hailey B Wolf, 402 North St., Monroe Center, $230,000.
• Geraldine E Timmer, deceased by heirs, to Curtis R Timmer and Jennifer A Timmer, 303 N. Walnut Ave., Forreston, $0.
• Roger G Timmer, deceased by heirs, to Kevin C Baumann and Debra A Baumann, one parcel in Forreston Township: 02-09300-001, $0.
• Kimberly Wetzel to City of Oregon, 131 S. Third St., Oregon, $62,000.
• Jacob R Rose to John Lynch, 6809 S. Joanne Ave., Rochelle, $242,500.
• Duane W Capes to Nancy L Capes and Jacob R Rose, 6809 S. Joanne Ave.,
Rochelle, $160,463.
• David J Shaw and Rosslynn E Shaw to Jeffrey Morozink and Lisa Harris, 503 N. Sangamon Lane, Dixon, $375,000.
• Thomas Oliver White Jr. to Manuel C Vasquez and Susan E Vasquez, 804 Madison St., Oregon, $105,000.
• Lindsey Reichert and Evan Reichert to Lindsey Caple, 8366 N. Canary Drive, Stillman Valley, $259,000.
• Shirley M Henson-Gilbert and Shirley M Henson Gilbert to Anthony A Peterson to Michelle M Peterson, 1020 N. Valentine Road, Polo, $85,000.
• Benjamin A Johnson to Jessica Trudeau, 533 Countryside Drive, Stillman Valley, $389,850.
• Peter J Sheldon, Janet L Tamillo and Janet L Sheldon to Kasey Anderson and Kassandra Anderson, 4839 N. Wendorf Road, Monroe Center, $295,000.
• Taylor E Strehl and Jenny L Strehl to John Rudecki, 8560 N. Hales Corner Road, Stillman Valley, $375,000.
Quit claim deeds
• Ian Jaffe to Ian Jaffe, trustee, and Ian Jaffe Declaration Trnamzo2025, one parcel in Marion Township: 05-20-400-003, $0.
• Helen L Wheeler, deceased by executor,
JONES FUNERAL HOMES
and Estate of Helen L Wheeler to Consolidated Grain And Barge Co. and Consolidated Grain & Barge Co., 10551 E. Titus Road, Rochelle, $0.
• Cristina M Pelayo, Sarah J Pelayo, Jaime S Pelayo, Emilia D Lopez, Charles H Brooks and Whitney N Sprague to Emilia D Lopez, 215 W. Second Ave., Rochelle, $0.
• Cristina M Pelayo, Sarah J Pelayo, Jaime S Pelayo, Emilia D Lopez, Charles H Brooks and Whitney N Sprague to Emilia D Lopez, 128 E. North St., Creston, $0.
• Christopher G Dewey to Jessica S Dewey, 105 N. High St., Kings, $0.
• Karen M Hey, deceased by heirs, to Martin A Hey Sr., 8297 S. Main St., Dixon, $0.
• Daniel Williams and Danielle Williams to Dennis L Williams and Laura E Williams, 1008 W. Ave. B, Rochelle, $0.
• Kennyth J Grimes and Matthew D Grimes to Sheryl L Grimes, 709 S. Second St., Oregon, $0.
• Gary Duane Blobaum and Amy Blobaum to Gary Duane Blobaum, trustee, Amy Joan Blobaum, trustee, and Blobaum Family Lv Tr, 3073 N. Silver Ridge Drive, Oregon, $0.
Executors deed
• Helen L Wheeler, deceased by executor,
and Estate of Helen L Wheeler to Consolidated Grain And Barge Co. and Consolidated Grain & Barge Co., two parcels in Flagg Township: 24-32-401-006 and 24-32-402004, $33,000.
• Roger A Hickey, trustee, and Roger A Hickey Tr, to Blake A Benesh, one parcel in Marion Township: 10-19-300-013, $384,000.
Deeds in trust
• James T McKenzie to Bruce L Hiscox, trustee, Brenda C Hiscox, trustee, and Family Hiscox Lv Tr, 2747 Brooks Island Road, Oregon, $0.
Trustees deeds
• Curtis R Timmer, trustee, Debra A Baumann, trustee, and Geraldine E Timmer Family Trust to Debra A Baumann and Kevin C Baumann, 11537 N. Baileyville Road, Forreston, and one parcel in Forreston Township: 02-09-400-003, $0.
• Curtis R Timmer, trustee, Geraldine E Timmer Family Trust and Debra A Baumann, trustee, to Curtis R Timmer and Jennifer A Timmer, 11537 N. Baileyville Road, Forreston, and one parcel in Forreston Township: 02-09-400-003, $0.
• Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office
Lawnmower blamed for rural Oregon fire
By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent
A rural Oregon home was significantly damaged Aug. 20 after a fire started in an attached garage.
Oregon firefighters responded to the 500 block of Elizabeth Road about 4:40 p.m. and saw flames coming from the roof of the one-level, ranch home.
Oregon Fire Chief Michael Knoup said the fire started in the home’s attached garage.
“The owner stated he had just finished mowing and parked the mower in the garage about five minutes prior to discovering the mower on fire in the garage,” Knoup said.
A neighbor said she saw smoke coming from the garage and called 911.
The homeowner was able to reenter the home to retrieve his dog, she said.
“He was able to get the dog outside, but he still has a cat missing, but it was not found inside the house,” Knoup said Wednesday evening. “The fire was accidental in nature and started on the lawnmower in the garage. The house did sustain significant damage with the fire, extending up into the attic space.”
Knoup said the homeowner is being assisted with housing by the Red Cross.
“No firefighters or civilians were injured in the fire,” Knoup said.
Four area fire departments – Mt. Morris, Franklin Grove, Lynn-ScottRock and Stillman Valley – assisted Oregon at the scene.
The home is located at the end of a cul-de-sac in a rural residential area east of South Daysville Road that is not served by city water and has no fire hydrants.
Man accused of running from cops with loaded gun
Alexander
Kurtz will remain in jail as his case proceeds through courts
By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent
A Rockford man accused of running from police through Byron while carrying a loaded gun will remain in jail as his case proceeds through the court system. Alexander Kurtz, 19, was remanded to the Ogle County Jail on Wednesday after Ogle County Associate Judge Anthony Peska denied Kurtz’s request to be released pending his next court date, Aug. 27.
Kurtz is charged with the felony offenses of unlawful use of a stolen firearm, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, resisting a peace officer, and illegal possession of ammunition without a Firearm Owner Identification Card.
Alexander Kurtz
All the charges stem from a traffic stop in Byron. Kurtz was arrested at 6:39 p.m. Tuesday Aug. 19, by Ogle County sheriff’s deputies when the vehicle he was a passenger in was stopped near the intersection of West Blackhawk Drive and South Fox Run Lane in Byron.
Court documents say Kurtz ran away from a deputy after being told to stop while carrying an AREX Delta X 9 mm handgun “with knowledge it had been stolen and without being entitled to possess the firearm.”
During Kurtz’s detention hearing Aug. 20 afternoon, Assistant State’s Attorney Allison Huntley said Kurtz ignored commands to halt and ran through a residential area in Byron with the gun that was loaded with 17 rounds, but had no bullet in
the chamber.
“He had a loaded handgun out in the public, running from police. He had to be tased to be stopped,” Huntley said.
Assistant Public Defender Eric Morrow asked Peska to release Kurtz since he had no criminal history, was employed, and could stay with family as his case proceeds through the court system.
“The weapon was not brandished,” Morrow said. “The allegations are that it was in his possession. There are conditions the court could set for his release. He has no criminal history at all.”
Huntley disagreed.
“There are no set of conditions that would be sufficient to protect residents,” she said. “He was running around Byron with a loaded gun...in a residential area.”
Peska agreed, noting that Kurtz failed to comply with the deputy’s directions while carrying a loaded, stolen gun.
“These are concerning actions.” Peska said. He set Kurtz’s preliminary hearing for 10 a.m. Aug. 27.
During detention hearings, a judge determines whether to release a defendant from custody as the case proceeds through the court system.
Criteria used by judges to make that decision include the nature of the alleged offenses, whether the defendant’s release would pose a “clear and present danger” to the community or certain individuals, and whether the defendant is considered to be a “flight risk” and likely will not appear again for scheduled court cases.
The driver of the vehicle Kurtz was riding in, Skylar J Risner, 20, of Rockford, was cited for improper lane use and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. He was released on a notice to appear.
Another passenger, Jordan Jarvis, 20, of Sterling, was cited for unlawful possession of cannabis as a passenger. He was released with a notice to appear.
Earleen Hinton
Oregon firefighters responded to a garage fire in the 500 block of Elizabeth Road on Aug. 20.
SPORTS
PREP FOOTBALL: ROCHELLE 41, GENESEO
14
Rochelle routs Geneseo in season opener
By ANDY COLBERT Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Any questions the Rochelle football team had after losing a stellar senior class were answered Friday with a resounding 41-14 nonconference win over Geneseo in Rochelle.
One of the biggest questions was replacing seven starters on the offensive and defensive lines.
“We looked like Rochelle football was supposed to be,” Hub line coach Erick Olson said. “But, it helps having two backs (Dylan Manning and Roman Villalobos) with over 1,000 yards coming back.”
Manning, who head coach Kyle Kissack thinks could be the best ever to play at Rochelle, started the game with an 89-yard kickoff return. Geneseo appeared to have the 5-foot-11, 185pound junior bottled up at midfield, but Manning broke free and outran everyone to the goal line.
“Actually, before the game, I envisioned a kickoff return,” Manning said. “I’ve never had one before in high school. Maybe because I was too slow before. One thing I try to do when running is not let the first guy tackle me.”
He did that all night long, rushing for 173 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries.
“Dylan is so dynamic, with great vision and agility,” Kissack said. “He doesn’t come down easy. He is such a humble individual, too.”
Manning’s running mate, Villalobos, also tore through the Maple Leaf defense. A state-caliber wrestler, Villalobos added a pair of scores and had 91 yards up the middle from his fullback position.
The Hub offense was unstoppable until late in the game when the starters were out and Rochelle attempted its only punt.
“Rochelle is what they are advertised to be with their physicality,” said second-year Geneseo coach Matt Furlong, who took over after being the defensive coordinator for Cary-Grove. “They get
off the ball well. We didn’t tackle or block good enough.”
Dating back to the genuine slugfests of the 1970s, Geneseo and Rochelle renewed their storied rivalry for the first time in several years. For now, Rochelle demonstrated they had the upper hand.
After trailing 14-0, the Leafs strung together a 16-play, 68-yard scoring drive, with Furlong showing his coaching chops by going for it on a pair of fourth downs. Quarterback Jackson McAvoy scored on a 3-yard keeper, but his real gem was a last-second pitch to Kye Weinzierl, after nearly being thrown for a loss, on a fourth-down attempt.
The Hubs quickly made it 20-7 on a 5-yard touchdown by Manning. Then, they caught the Leafs off guard with a
well-executed onside kick by Aaron Hernandez that was recovered by Jon Andrist.
With two minutes left in the first half, Rochelle was in the end zone again, taking a 27-7 lead on a Manning score.
After forcing a punt, Rochelle took possession at its own 20-yard line with 1:30 left. Quarterback Van Gerber, one of many new starters, efficiently led the Hubs downfield to the 12-yard line before time ran out at the half.
Geneseo put together a solid drive to start the third quarter, but Rochelle’s top defensive returner, Brode Metgzer, blew up a third-down attempt and the drive stalled at midfield.
Villalobos then had Rochelle’s longest run of the game, a 34-yarder, setting up his own TD three plays later to make it 34-7.
On its next possession, Geneseo pulled within 34-14 on a Weinzierl 33-yard score. During the drive, the Leafs converted their fourth of five fourth-down attempts.
Tyler Gensler, younger brother of all-staters Grant and Garrett, put the game out of reach with a fourth-quarter score for Rochelle.
Geneseo was held to 155 net yards, an average of 2.9 yards per play.
“We stayed disciplined and read our keys,” said Hub DB Mark Green, who led both sides on defense with 10 tackles.
The only glitch for Rochelle was eight penalties for 55 yards, twice allowing Geneseo drives to stay alive.
“It was a great start,” Kissack said. “We had a lot of holes to fill, and it was a challenge for our kids to prove that they could.”
Photo provided by Marcy DeLille
Rochelle’s Roman Villalobos (40) rumbles for yardage during their game with Geneseo on Friday, Aug. 29.
Rochelle volleyball drops match at Dixon
By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com
Leah Carlson and the Dixon volleyball players have a single word written on the white athletic tape wrapped around their fingers.
“One.”
It is another reminder to play as a team.
The mantra has led to success as the Duchesses improved to 2-0 after a 25-19, 25-19 win over Rochelle in Thursday night’s home opener at Lancaster Gym.
Carlson had six kills, eight assists and two aces as Dixon had a balanced attack on the stat sheet.
“We’re only focusing on our level of energy and being as one team,” Carlson said. “We write ”one” on our finger to represent that we can’t be individuals in the game. It’s not going to work.”
Rochelle (1-1) led the first set 19-17 and Dixon took a timeout. The Duchesses responded with six straight points, including one of two aces from Abby Hicks.
Morgan Hargrave (six kills, eight digs) and Solis Thompson (two blocks) also had two aces as Dixon posted nine as a team.
“Our serving was really good tonight,” Carlson said. “It’s just great to have a bunch of seniors that you’ve been playing with for four years now. It’s a good team dynamic and a good vibe.”
Rochelle stayed within striking distance in the second set, but Dixon never let the Hubs get too close down the stretch.
“It was point for point in both matches up until like 16, 17,” Rochelle coach Molly Sly said. “We kind of fell off. They were able to run with it at the end, find their hot hitters. Not to take anything away from them, but we kind of gave up in the back row.
“Our serve receive was not where it should have been for the last 10 points.”
Meredith Bruns led Rochelle with three kills and two aces. Emma Metzger and Jillian Bruns also had two aces for the Hubs.
“I think if we can take that away and kind of fight for the finish instead of the first two-thirds of the game,” Sly said, “I think we might have had a different match.”
Dixon was without its primary
libero, Yui Santos, as she was still recovering from bumping her head in the Sterling game.
She will have plenty of time to recover as Dixon now has a week off on the schedule.
“Rayven [Mowery] and Abby [Hicks] stepped in really nicely tonight for Yui’s absence,” Dixon coach Bunyan Cocar said. “I thought the folks who came in were really consistent serving. We just played good team volleyball tonight.”
Cocar said the team’s service game made up for some of the errors.
“That was really nice to see,” he said.
With an experienced group of seniors, Cocar says this year’s team can be special.
“I told them our team has probably the most experienced lineup of anybody,” he said. “We have all seniors
Leah Carlson shows her taped finger with the word “one” written on it, along with her jersey number. Playing as one is a motto she and the rest of the volleyball team have emphasized this season.
pretty much ... I expect them to know how to win games when it’s 20-19. We don’t make mistakes and we focus even more.
“That’s kind of the senior leadership
I expect from Morgan, Leah, Izzy [Queckboerner], Presley [Lappin]. All these girls who have been with us since their sophomore year playing varsity. They just know how to win.”
Alex T. Paschal
Rochelle’s Meredith Bruns makes a play against Dixon on Thursday, Aug. 28.
Dixon’s
Drake Lansman
Oregon-Stillman Tourney showcases 12 teams
Twelve teams hit the fields on Friday, Aug. 29, and Saturday, Aug. 30, at the Oregon-Stillman Varsity Soccer Tourney held at Stillman Valley and Oregon Park West. ABOVE: Rochelle’s Antonio Hueramo (14) and Genoa-Kingston’s Chris Fuentes (35) battle for the ball during action Aug. 30 at the Oregon-Stillman Varsity Soccer Tourney at Oregon Park West. TOP RIGHT: Oregon’s Steven Guardado (25) positions for the ball against Rochelle’s Anthony Estrada (12) on Aug. 30 at the Oregon-Stillman Varsity Soccer Tourney at Oregon Park West. BOTTOM RIGHT: Oregon goalkepper Dereyk Witthers gathers the ball on Aug. 29 at the Oregon-Stillman Varsity Soccer Tourney at Oregon Park West.
OCUSD announces 2025 athletic hall of fame class
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The OCUSD Athletic Hall of Fame Committee has announced the second class of inductees into the newly established Oregon Community School District 220 Athletic Hall of Fame. The committee thanks all who submitted nominations last spring.
Here are the individuals and teams
that will be honored at the induction ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 18, and introduced to the public at halftime of the Oregon-Winnebago home football game on Friday, Oct. 17.
Coach: Paul (Pat) Holland (longtime football coach at OHS)
Coach: Art Carlson (longtime Oregon track and cross country coach)
Coach: John Bothe (longtime football coach at OHS)
Athlete: Nelson Potter (MMHS Class of 1930, played Major League Baseball, pitched in 1944 World Series)
Athlete: Rob Urish (MMHS football/ basketball/track early 1960s)
Athlete: Bob Barnett (late 1970s Oregon basketball/baseball)
Athlete: Alana Krick (Murray) (early 1980s MMHS volleyball/basketball/ track)
Friend of Athletics: John Cain (long -
time Oregon High School athletic trainer)
Team: 1950-51 and 1951-52 Mt. Morris Boys Basketball (nicknamed “Whiz Kids” – only one loss each season)
Coach/Administrator: Vern Welp (MMHS and OHS athletic director)
Photos by Earleen Hinton
ED PARTIES CON-
SULT THEIR OWN ATTORNEYS BEFORE BIDDING AT FORECLOSURE SALE.)
highest bidder.
(A) The name, address, and telephone number of the person to contact for information regarding the real estate are Courtney Wigant, Compliance Associate, 1021 N. Galena Avenue, Dixon, Illinois 61021 telephone (815) 2848500.
(B) The legal description of the real estate and the common address is as follows:
laneous Records, Page 160 in the Recorder's Office of Ogle County, Illinois; situated in the Township of Grand Detour, the County of Ogle and the State of Illinois.
PIN: 21-13-107-002
2 Common address or locat ion of mortgaged premises: 8083 South Green Street, Dixon, Illinois 61021
Illinois 61061, at 10:00 a.m. on October 17, 2025.
(F) The terms of the sale are ten percent (10%) down at the time of the sale, payable in certified funds, and the full balance within seven (7) days.
(G) The case title, case number, and the Court in which the foreclosure was filed arc specified above
COMMUNITY BANK, GOODLEAP, LLC, UNKNOWN OWNERS, and NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants
Place your Garage Sale ad online 24/7 at www.ShawLo ca l.com/ garage sale s Email: classified@ shawlocal.com or call 815-526-4645 Queen size bed frame w/ headboard. Brand new $160 815-857-4282 111 W.
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Email: classified@ shawlocal.com or call: 815-526-4645
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
(IT IS ADVISED THAT INTERESTED PARTIES CONSULT THEIR OWN ATTORNEYS BEFORE BIDDING AT FORECLOSURE SALE.)
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered by the Court in Community State Bank of Rock Falls v Robert L Turner, Aven Financial Inc., d/b/a Aven Financial as successor in interest to Coastal Community Bank GoodLeap, LLC, Unknown Owners and NonRecord Claimants, Case No. 2025FC20, Ogle County, Illinois, on August 29, 2025, the property hereinafter described will be sold to the highest bidder.
(C) The improvement on the real estate is a residence.
(H) No other information is required to be disclosed.
COMMUNITY
Don't need it? Sell it!
Place a classified ad with us! 833-584-NEWS
The Og le Co. Soil and Water Conservation District is taking applications for a Conservationist position. The individual will work with agricultural landowners and producers to manage and conserve soil, water and other natural resources
For more information email taylor.ogleswcd@yahoo.com or call 815-732- 6127 ext 3
Deliver cover letter and resumes before September 18, 2025, to 1213 Pines Road, Oregon, IL 61061 or email.
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered by the Court in Community State Bank of Rock Falls v Robert L Turner, Aven Financial Inc., d/b/a Aven Financial as successor in interest to Coastal Community Bank GoodLeap, LLC, Unknown Owners and NonRecord Claimants, Case No. 2025FC20, Ogle County, Illinois, on August 29, 2025, the property hereinafter described will be sold to the highest bidder.
(A) The name, address, and telephone number of the person to contact for information regarding the real estate are Courtney Wigant, Compliance Associate, 1021 N. Galena Avenue, Dixon, Illinois 61021 telephone (815) 2848500.
(B) The legal description of the real estate and the common address is as follows:
1. Lots Seven (7), Eight (8), Nine (9) and Ten (10) in Block Sixteen (16) in the Original Town of Grand Detour, according to the revised Plat of the Town of Grand Detour and its Addition, recorded in Book B of Miscellaneous Records, Page 160 in the Recorder's Office of Ogle County, Illinois; situated in the Township of Grand Detour, the County of Ogle and the State of Illinois.
(A) The name, address, and telephone number of the person to contact for information regarding the real estate are Courtney Wigant, Compliance Associate, 1021 N. Galena Avenue, Dixon, Illinois 61021 telephone (815) 2848500.
(B) The legal description of the real estate and the common address is as follows:
1. Lots Seven (7), Eight (8), Nine (9) and Ten (10) in Block Sixteen (16) in the Original Town of Grand Detour, according to the revised Plat of the Town of Grand Detour and its Addition, recorded in Book B of Miscellaneous Records, Page 160 in the Recorder's Office of Ogle County, Illinois; situated in the Township of Grand Detour, the County of Ogle and the State of Illinois.
PIN:
21-13-107-002
2 Common address or locat ion of mortgaged premises: 8083 South Green Street, Dixon, Illinois 61021
(C) The improvement on the real estate is a residence.
(D) The real estate may not be inspected prior to the sale
(E) The time and place of the sale are as follows: The Ogle County Sheriff's Office, 202 S First Street, Oregon, Illinois 61061, at 10:00 a.m. on October 17, 2025.
(F) The terms of the sale are ten percent (10%) down at the time of the sale, payable in certified funds, and
1. Lots Seven (7), Eight (8), Nine (9) and Ten (10) in Block Sixteen (16) in the Original Town of Grand Detour, according to the revised Plat of the Town of Grand Detour and its Addition, recorded in Book B of Miscellaneous Records, Page 160 in the Recorder's Office of Ogle County, Illinois; situated in the Township of Grand Detour, the County of Ogle and the State of Illinois.
PIN: 21-13-107-002
2 Common address or locat ion of mortgaged premises: 8083 South Green Street, Dixon, Illinois 61021
(C) The improvement on the real estate is a residence.
(D) The real estate may not be inspected prior to the sale
(E) The time and place of the sale are as follows: The Ogle County Sheriff's Office, 202 S First Street, Oregon, Illinois 61061, at 10:00 a.m. on October 17, 2025.
(F) The terms of the sale are ten percent (10%) down at the time of the sale, payable in certified funds, and the full balance within seven (7) days.
(G) The case title, case number, and the Court in which the foreclosure was filed arc specified above
(H) No other information is required to be disclosed.
COMMUNITY STATE BANK OF ROCK FALLS, Plaintiff By EHRMANN GEHLBACH BADGER & CONSIDINE, LLC
By Courtney E. Kennedy
Courtney E. Kennedy
Courtney E Kennedy (6322625) Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger & Considine, LLC Attorneys for Plaintiff
114 E. Everett
St S
(D) The real estate may not be inspected prior to the sale
(E) The time and place of the sale are as follows: The Ogle County Sheriff's Office, 202 S First Street, Oregon, Illinois 61061, at 10:00 a.m. on October 17, 2025.
(F) The terms of the sale are ten percent (10%) down at the time of the sale, payable in certified funds, and the full balance within seven (7) days.
(G) The case title, case number, and the Court in which the foreclosure was filed arc specified above
(H) No other information is required to be disclosed.
COMMUNITY STATE BANK OF ROCK FALLS, Plaintiff By EHRMANN GEHLBACH
BADGER & CONSIDINE, LLC By Courtney E. Kennedy
Courtney E. Kennedy
Courtney E Kennedy (6322625) Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger & Considine, LLC
Attorneys for Plaintiff 114 E. Everett Street, Suite 300 Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 288-4949 (815) 288-3068 (FAX) kennedy@egbclaw .com
Sept. 12, 19, 26, 2025 , O
STATE BANK OF ROCK FALLS, Plaintiff By EHRMANN GEHLBACH
BADGER & CONSIDINE, LLC By Courtney E. Kennedy
Courtney E. Kennedy
Courtney E Kennedy (6322625) Ehrmann Gehlbach
Badger & Considine, LLC
Attorneys for Plaintiff 114 E. Everett Street, Suite 300 Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 288-4949 (815) 288-3068 (FAX) kennedy@egbclaw .com
Sept. 12, 19, 26, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, IL LINOIS COMMUNITY STATE BANK OF ROCK FALLS, Plaintiff, v. ROBERT L. TURNER, AVEN FINANCIAL INC., d/b/a AVEN FINANCIAL as successor in interest to COASTAL COMMUNITY BANK, GOODLEAP, LLC, UNKNOWN OWNERS, and NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants
Property Address: 8083 South Green Str eet Dixon, Illinois 61021 No. 2025FC20 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
(IT IS ADVISED THAT INTERESTED PARTIES CONSULT THEIR OWN ATTORNEYS BEFORE BIDDING AT FORECLOSURE SALE.)
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered by the Court in Communi -
Property Address: 8083 South Green Str eet Dixon, Illinois 61021 No. 2025FC20 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
(IT IS ADVISED THAT INTERESTED PARTIES CONSULT THEIR OWN ATTORNEYS BEFORE BIDDING AT FORECLOSURE SALE.)
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered by the Court in Community State Bank of Rock Falls v Robert L Turner, Aven Financial Inc., d/b/a Aven Financial as successor in interest to Coastal Community Bank GoodLeap, LLC, Unknown Owners and NonRecord Claimants, Case No. 2025FC20, Ogle County, Illinois, on August 29, 2025, the property hereinafter described will be sold to the highest bidder.
(A) The name, address, and telephone number of the person to contact for information regarding the real estate are Courtney Wiga nt, Compliance Associate, 1021 N. Galena Avenue, Dixon, Illinois 61021 telephone (815) 2848500.
(B) The legal description of the real estate and the common address is as follows:
1. Lots Seven (7), Eight (8), Nine (9) and Ten (10) in Block Sixteen (16) in the Original Town of Grand Detour, according to the revised Plat of the Town of Grand Detour and its Addition, recorded in Book B of Miscellaneous Records, Page 160 in the Recorder's Office of Ogle County, Illinois; situated in the Township of Grand Detour, the County of Ogle and the State of Illinois. PIN: 21-13-107-002
2 Common address or locat ion of mortgaged premises: 8083 South Green Street, Dixon, Illinois 61021
(C) The improvement on the real estate is a residence.
(C) The impro ment on the estate is a dence.
(D) The real est may not be spected prior the sale
(E) The time place of the are as follows: Ogle County S iff's Office, 202 First Street, O gon, Illinois 61061, at 10:00 a.m. October 17, 2025.
(F) The terms the sale are percent (10%) down at the time the sale, payable certified funds, the full balan within seven days.
(G) The case case number, the Court in whic the foreclo was filed arc sp fied above.
(H) No other infor mation is require to be disclosed. COMMUNI STATE BANK ROCK FALLS Plaint By EHRMA GEHLBAC
CONSIDINE, By Courtney Kenne
Courtney Kenne
Courtney E. Kennedy (6322625) Ehrmann Gehlb
Badger & Considine, LLC Attorneys for Plaintiff 114 E. Everett Street, Suite 300 Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 288-4949 (815) 288-3068 (FAX) kennedy@egbcl .com
Sept. 12, 19, 2025
PIN:
21-13-107-002
AL NOTICES
MMUNITY NK, OODLEAP, LLC, UNKNOWN OWNERS, and NONRECORD IMANTS, fendants operty Address: 8083 South Green Str eet Dixon, Illinois 61021 No. 2025FC20 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE IS ADVISED AT INTERESTPARTIES CONULT THEIR OWN TORNEYS BERE BIDDING AT RECLOSURE LE.) UBLIC NOTICE hereby given pursuant to a DGMENT OF RECLOSURE tered by the Court in CommuniState Bank of ck Falls v bert L Turner, n Financial Inc., a Aven Finanas successor interest to astal Communiank GoodLeap, LLC, Unknown ners and Noncord Claimants, se No. 2025FC20, Ogle County, Illinois, on ust 29, 2025, property hereer described be sold to the highest bidder. The name, adess, and teleone number of person to confor information rding the real te are CourtWiga nt, Comliance Associate, 1021 N. Galena enue, Dixon, Illi61021 teleone (815) 2848500. The legal deription of the real te and the mmon address s follows: Lots Seven (7), Eight (8), Nine (9) Ten (10) in k Sixteen (16) the Original wn of Grand De, according to revised Plat of Town of Grand etour and its Adon, recorded in ok B of Miscelneous Records, ge 160 in the corder's Office gle County, Illi; situated in Township of and Detour, the County of Ogle and State of Illinois.
2 Common address or locat ion of mortgaged premises: 8083 South Green Street, Dixon, Illinois 61021
(C) The improvement on the real estate is a residence.
(D) The real estate may not be inspected prior to the sale
(E) The time and place of the sale are as follows: The Ogle County Sheriff's Office, 202 S First Street, Oregon, Illinois 61061, at 10:00 a.m. on October 17, 2025.
(F) The terms of the sale are ten percent (10%) down at the time of the sale, payable in certified funds, and the full balance within seven (7) days.
(G) The case title, case number, and the Court in which the foreclosure was filed arc specified above.
(H) No other information is required to be disclosed.
COMMUNITY
STATE BANK OF ROCK FALLS, Plaintiff By EHRMANN GEHLBACH
BADGER & CONSIDINE, LLC
By Courtney E. Kennedy
Courtney E. Kennedy
Courtney E. Kennedy (6322625) Ehrmann Gehlbach
Badger & Considine, LLC
Attorneys for Plaintiff 114 E. Everett Street, Suite 300 Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 288-4949 (815) 288-3068 (FAX) kennedy@egbclaw .com
Kennedy Courtney E. Kennedy
Courtney E. Kennedy (6322625) Ehrmann Gehlbach
Badger & Considine, LLC
Attorneys for Plaintiff
114 E. Everett Street, Suite 300 Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 288-4949 (815) 288-3068 (FAX) kennedy@egbclaw .com
Sept. 12, 19, 26, 2025
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.
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:
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
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.
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.
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.
must be mailed or delivered to the Estate legal representative and to his attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Publication Notice
21-13-107-002
Common ads or locat ion of rtgaged premis8083 South een Street, n, Illinois 61021
The improvent on the real te is a resince.
Sept. 12, 19, 26, 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
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.
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
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
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.
Dated: August 27, 2025
*This
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
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
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.
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
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
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.
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:
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
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
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
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.
/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
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
Ogle County Classifieds 833-584-NEWS
Dated: August 25, 2025.
s/Laura J. Cook
Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk Sept. 5, 12, 19, 2025
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,
IN THE UNITED S TATE S DIS TRICT COURT FOR THE NORTHERN DIS TRICT OF ILLINOIS ROCKF OR D DIVISION
ILLINOIS DEBT ACQUISITION COMPANY, L.L.C., Plaintiff, v. EL PASO HCC, LLC, et al. Defen dants.
Case No. 3:24-CV-50034 Ju dges Honorable Iain D. Johns ton and Honorable Margaret J. Sch neider NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to 28 U.S.C. Secs. 2001 and 2002, the Order Appointing Receiver entered on January 25, 2024 (Dkt No 8) entered in the above captioned matter and the July 18, 2025 Orde r setting sale pr ocedures for the sale of Defendants' assets (Dkt. No 129), the Court's Receiver shall, with the assistance of Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation ( Inte rcounty), place for public sale to the highest bidder , the rea l and pe rsonal property mor e full y described below and more fully describ ed in the Verified Complaint in the above captioned matter (Dkt No 1 and incorporated herein by refer ence) on October 10, 2025 at the hour of 12 Noon, CDT, through hybrid means via Zoom (Zoom Instructions) and in person in the Lobby of U.S Courthouse, 327 South Church Street, Rockford, IL 61101: Real Property: Th e real property commonly known as 850 East 2nd Street, El Paso, IL 61738, operating as El Paso Health Care Center, a 123-bed licensed skilled nursing facility, which is at issue in and more fully d escrib ed in the Verified Complaint in the above captioned matter (Dkt. No. 1)
The real property commonly known as 201 East Falcon Highway, Flanagan, IL 61740, operat ing as Flanagan Rehab & Health Care Center, a 75-bed licensed skilled nursing facility, which is at issue in and more fully described in the Verified Complaint in the above captioned matter (Dkt. No. 1)
The rea l property commonly known as 141 South Junior Avenue, Kewanee , IL 61443, operating as Courtyard Estates of Kewanee, a 35-bed licensed assisted care living fac ility, which is at issue in and more fully described in the Verified Complai nt in the above capti oned matter (Dkt. No. 1 ).
The real property commonly known as 415 East Main Stree t, Knoxville, IL 61448, operating as Courtyard Estates of Knoxville, a 32-bed licensed assisted care living facility, which is at issue in and more fully described in the Verified Complaint in the above captioned matter (Dkt. No. 1)
The real propert y commonly known as 1200 West Broadway, Monmouth, IL 61462, operating a s Legac y Estates of Monmouth, a 59-bed licensed assisted care living facility, which is at issue in and more fully described in the Verified Complaint in the above captioned matter (Dkt. No. 1)
The rea l property commonly known as 275 East Carl Sandburg Drive, Galesburg, IL 614 01, operating as Mar igold Rehab & Health Care Center, a 172-bed licensed skilled nursing facility, which is at issue in and more fully described in the Verified Complaint in the above cap tioned mat ter (Dkt. No. 1)
The rea l property commonly known as One Courtyard Boulevard, Monmouth, IL 61462 operating as Courtyard Estat es of Monmouth, a 51 -bed licensed assisted care living facility, which is at issue in and more fully describ ed in the Verified Complaint in the above cap tioned mat ter (Dkt. No. 1)
The rea l property c ommonly known as 703 East Buffalo Street, Polo, IL 61064, formerly operating as Polo Rehab & Health Care Center, an 81-bed licensed skilled nursing fac ility, which is at issue in and more fully d escrib ed in the Verified Complaint in the above captioned matter (Dkt. No. 1). Polo Reh ab & Health Care Center is currently not operating.
Personal Property:
All personal property that is pledged by the Defenda nts as collateral, which is at issue in and more fully described in the Verified Complaint in the above cap tioned matter. (Dkt. No. 1) Terms of sale are outlined in the July 18, 2025 Order sett ing sale proc edur es for the sale of Defendants' ass ets (Dkt. No. 129)
Additi onal Sale terms Bidders may contac t either Intercounty or the Receiver's attorneys to r eceive Zoom login instructions prior to the sale Bids shall be su bmitte d to the Receiver on the day of the sale and shall include a signed asset purchase agree ment from the bidder and a redline of the bidd er's asset purchase agreement to the stalking hor se bidder's asset purchase agreement. All bids (other than the stalking horse bid) must be in the form of an all cash bid in an amount that exceeds the s talking horse bid by at least two percen t ( 2%) of the stalking horse bid of $18,150,000.00, plus a minimum overbid of an additional $200,000.00 (i.e. $18,713,000.00). All bids must be irrevocab le and may not be subject to conditions or financing contingencies The asset purchase agreement must include the proposed closing date, all final terms of the bid and all schedules thereto. All bids must include sufficient infor mation, as reasonably determined by the Receiver, to allow the Rece iver to determine, in his reasonable business judgment, whether the interes ted party has the financial wherew ithal to consummate the sale. The winning bidder will be required to deposit in a sum equa l to ten perce nt (10%) of the purchase price contained in the accepted offer accepted by Receiver to the Receiver's designated title company within seven (7) business days after notification of acceptan ce
Pursua nt to the Order entered in the above captioned matter on July 18, 2025 as Dkt. No. 129, at the public sale , Intercounty shall hold an auction whereat bidders that complied with the requirements set forth in the foregoing paragrap h 6 of the Order entered in the above captioned matter on July 18, 2025 as Dkt. N o. 129 start ing with the highest and best bid submitted in compliance with paragraph 6 of the Orde r entered in the above captioned matter on July 18, 2025 as Dkt. No. 129, which highest and best bid shall be determined by Receiver Bidders who complied with the requirement s set forth in the foregoing paragraph 6 of the Order entered in the above captioned matt er on July 18, 2025 as Dkt. No. 129 shall be permitted to submit topping bids at the auct ion until Intercounty and Receiver determine the final and best bid (the "Winning Bid"), and, if multiple bid s are submitted, a back- up bid (the "Back-up Bid" ).
The accurac y of the information solicited by bidders cannot be guarante ed, and prospective bidders are ther efore encouraged to complete any desired and non-invasive due diligence at their own expense . The sale of the Receivership Assets is without rec ourse to Receive r and in "AS-IS" condition, and in any event any sale will otherwise be consistent with the sale proced ures approved in the above referen ced matter The sale is further subject to confirmation by the Court in the above captioned matt er. Any expenses associat ed with the sale also will be subject to and presente d to the Court in the above captioned matt er for approval
Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file in the above cap tioned matt er to verify all information.
Prospective Bidders may contact Inte rcounty and or the Rece iver's attorneys for Zoom Instruc tions.
Property tours will be available to all intereste d bidders at times to-be-scheduled wi th the Recei ver, and the Receivership Assets may also be shown by appointment. Receiver will provide information relat ed to the Receivership Assets for review to prospective bidders, including subject to a confidentia lity agreemen t. To arrange a tour of the facilities or for further information concerning the real and personal pr operties, interested partie s may contact the Receiver through his counsel(s) at Scott & Kraus, LLC: Eugene S. Kraus Jason R. Sleezer Scott & Kraus, LLC
150 S Wacker Drive, Suite 2900 Chicago, IL 60606 (312) 327-1050 ekraus@skcounsel .com jsleezer@skcounsel.com
