SERVING OGLE COUNTY SINCE 1851 • ShawLocal.com
Monday, October 13, 2025 • Free
NEWS
44 years of pumpkins The Seebach family has been growing and selling pumpkins outside of Rochelle / 4
BREAKING GROUND
YOUR HOME FOR ALL THINGS BANKING counts at Why juggle multiple ac Byron Bank can different banks when l needs under meet all your financia g accounts to one roof? From checkin s banking, mortgages and busines we’ve got you covered. bank.com
815.234.2561 | byron
TODAY’S EDITION: 32 pages • Vol. 37, Issue 27
A Tuesday ceremony in Mt. Morris marks the upcoming construction of the Hill Street Neighborhood / 3, 7
Do we still have free speech?
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
2 ShawLocal.com
UNLIMITED DIGITAL ACCESS Included in every subscription Activate your digital subscription today. Email: digitalactivation@shawmedia.com OFFICE
211 IL Route 38 East, Rochelle, IL 61068 SUBSCRIBER SERVICES
Phone: 815-526-4420 Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. SUBSCRIPTIONS
Subscriptions in our service area are free on a requester basis. To subscribe or discuss your delivery, contact Subscriber Services. Rochelle News-Leader (USPS #004-083 / ISSN #1045-3059) is published Monday and delivered to homes by Shaw Media, 211 IL Route 38 East, Rochelle, IL 61068 Periodical postage paid at Rochelle, IL and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address corrections to Shaw Media, 211 IL Route 38 East, Rochelle, IL 61068 DEPARTMENTS To reach all other departments, call 833-584-NEWS. NEWSROOM news@oglecountynews.com CLASSIFIED SALES classified@shawlocal.com HELP WANTED employment@shawlocal.com RETAIL ADVERTISING
info@shawmediamarketing.com Publisher Jennifer Heintzelman
815-632-2502 jheintzelman@shawmedia.com Editor Charlene Bielema
815-632-2518 cbielema@shawmedia.com Subscriber Terms and Conditions may change at any time. The current version will supersede all previous versions. The most current version of subscription terms are posted on the website under Terms and Conditions. Ogle County Life and ShawLocal.com are a division of Shaw Media. All rights reserved. Copyright 2025
It’s very interesting that our current President gets away with bypassing the constitution, ignoring our legal system, and even demanding that our United States attorney general pursue a particular case or what to pursue in a case. This has never happened before, that I know of. If this is what most of us want from our President, to demand pursuance rather than suggesting, then we should, at least, be ready for the realization that we will never get the same treatment as the “well invested” will get. Take, for instance, the First Amendment of our Constitution that protects free speech. President Trump said at his inauguration, “After years and years of illegal and unconstitutional federal efforts to restrict free expression, I will also sign an executive order to immediately stop all government censorship and bring back free speech to America. Never again will the immense power of the state be weaponized to persecute political opponents, something I know something about.” This excerpt can be found at “www.usatoday.com/story/ news/politics/2025/01/20/donald-trump-inauguration-speech-full-texttranscript/77839163007/”. But do we really have free speech anymore? Is this something that is beginning to be dismantled? Do you feel free to get on social media, a podcast, or online in some other way and say “everything” you want to say? I would guess that none of us have a problem in talking about things such as vaccinations being limited or taken away, especially from our children. HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy has altered the CDC so much it will have a tremendous effect in the future. CDC, formerly a science-based agency, is now based on, well it’s hard to say. We don’t really know, at least I don’t. If the suggestions they are currently making about vaccines are followed by us, our children may see the measles, polio, mumps, and many more childhood diseases, eradicated in the past, again affect their lives. HHS may not restrict these vaccines, but because they don’t suggest them, our drug companies will eventually be able to charge us for them. Do you think that
COMMUNITY VIEWS Reed Harris they will be more expensive than they were for the government when they paid for them? I’m pretty sure the drug companies won’t get hurt in the long run. But what else happens if these vaccines aren’t taken? Children get sicker, there are more hospitalizations, and there will probably be more deaths. Do you know who might benefit due to these horrible actions? Do you think hospitals, clinics, and other health institutions will benefit? Do you believe insurance companies, if affordable at all, will benefit? What about funeral homes and cemeteries? Not all, but some, are in the upper brackets for income, so will you also benefit? Do you even want to benefit from children getting sick and dying? Let’s move on from free speech opinions and focus on our beloved White House. It is, after all, the people’s house. If you don’t believe this, then go to “www.thepeopleshouse.org”. Are we OK with a ballroom being built? Trump has said it has been the thought of many for a long time. Do you believe this? I don’t ever remember anyone saying the White House had to have a ballroom. Not that it was never said but how would it benefit us? What would a ballroom do for the heads of state that visit? They could dance, but that’s about it. When previous Presidents of this country have had dinners, there has always been music, too. I’m not sure if there was room to dance but does that help our country and others to get business done? In the past, the White House has been changed by many of our Presidents, but those were internal changes to keep up the “House” or to improve its security and add rooms needed to conduct business. Maybe that’s why President Trump wants the ballroom. To conduct the business of the state. It’s a slight possibility but he may just conduct his own personal business instead. We shall see. It’s already in the process of being built so we will soon see. For me, I’m not a fan of
putting on a show. More of getting required business done. What are your thoughts? So, the business before us is not adding a ballroom to the White House. It’s not saying we will pray for families of children being shot at school or for citizens being shot while shopping, nor for spectators and attendees of sports games or concerts being shot at the event. It’s being able to vocalize our thoughts no matter what they are. It’s for taking a deeper look at the Second Amendment to determine what was really meant by our founding fathers and early Presidents. If we don’t tackle the latter, shootings will still happen at a more alarming pace than in the past. The only way to really do anything about gun crime, whether it is a single person committing immoral crime or a gang war on our streets, is to do something about guns. Is it too late for this? I certainly hope not, but it might be. Yes, we can talk about mental illness all we want when these events happen and, sure, bringing back programs and professionals to help prevent this will benefit all. In my mind, however, we must look at all these immoral crimes as if they are being committed by those not in their moral mind. Do you agree? Let’s demand that our politicians begin doing something about those things that happen to us every day. Let’s make sure that the money allocated by Congress for our police, our schools for education, our health professionals and institutions that support us goes to those entities and/or people. Let’s get back full access to vaccinations and other recently scaled-back or eliminated services. Let’s make sure what we have worked and paid for, such as Social Security and Medicare, continue to be supported. More importantly, let’s remember that most of these things will be called socialism, but this word is being used in an inappropriate way. We are not trying to control companies and the economy. These programs are to make sure people survive within their status. To make sure they have an avenue to get ahead
ON THE COVER
HOW ARE WE DOING?
Plans for the Hill Street Neighborhood include 24 units in 12 duplexes and a four-acre public park with walkways to access the park for all units in Mt. Morris.
We want to hear from you. Email us your thoughts at feedback@shawmedia.com.
Jeff Helfrich
See Harris on page A7
Scan here here to Scan to get get Ogle County Kendall County Text Alerts Alerts Text
3
Hill Street Neighborhood will give people with disabilities the opportunity to choose their own services, an option not seen in group homes. Plans call for 24 units in 12 duplexes and a 4-acre public park with walkways to access the park for all units. There will also be a community building open to anyone in Mt. Morris and acreage for By JEFF HELFRICH future expansion. jhelfrich@shawmedia.com “Five years ago, VOP Executive Director Brion Brooks told me about a A groundbreaking ceremony in Mt. crazy idea in Mt. Morris to build housMorris on Tuesday, Oct. 7, marks the ing for people with intellectual disabiliupcoming construction of the Hill Street ties where they can control their own Neighborhood – a unique $10 million housing,” Kreider Services Executive duplex apartment project. Director Jeff Stauter said. “That may A collaboration between the Village seem like nothing to people without disof Progress in Oregon and Kreider Ser- abilities. vices in Dixon, it will offer a new living “Here in Mt. Morris, unlike anyoption for people living with disabilities where else in the state, those folks are whose options typically have included going to be able to pick who provides living with parents or in a group home. their services and who is in their home After many years of planning, the supporting them. And if they don’t like
State agency plan with strong local backing aims to integrate people with and without disabilities
Mt. Morris Village President Phil Labash (left) and Kreider Services Executive Director Jeff Stauter were among the speakers at a groundbreaking for the Hill Street Neighborhood on Tuesday, Oct. 7, in Mt. Morris. them, they can hire someone new. It puts them in control of their space and lives. And that is amazing.” Major support for the project has come from the Corporation for Supportive Housing, the Illinois Department of Human Services’ Division of Developmental Disabilities, IHDA, the Ogle
County Housing Authority, Sauk Valley Bank, ComEd, and the Village of Mt. Morris. Mt. Morris Village President Phil Labash spoke at the groundbreaking on Oct. 7 and said he’s excited Mt. Morris was chosen for the development. He is looking forward to welcoming new residents. “I’m confident this development will result in many positive outcomes for Mt. Morris and set us apart as a very special destination,” Labash said. “Thank you to everyone who was involved in bringing this to life. Today the work begins on a project that will impact and transform the lives of many tomorrow. I’m excited to see it come to life.” The Hill Street Neighborhood will have a full-time staff member to service its tenants. Half of the duplexes will be occupied by people without disabilities.
See Hill Street on page A7
OCL
Ground broken for $10M Hill Street Neighborhood project in Mt. Morris
OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
Photos by Jeff Helfrich
A groundbreaking ceremony was held on Tuesday, Oct. 7, in Mt. Morris for the Hill Street Neighborhood. The duplex apartment project is planned to serve both people with disabilities and people from the general population.
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
4
Seebach’s Pumpkins returns for 44th year Scott Seebach: ‘It’s fun to see generations of families come out here for pumpkins’ By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com The Seebach family has been growing and selling pumpkins in Flagg Center just outside Rochelle for the past 44 years. Seebach’s Pumpkins at 5498 S. Center Road opened for the season Sept. 13. The operation was started by the late Jerry Seebach and taken over by his sons, Jeff and Scott, who now do the work with their children and help from other family members and friends. The stand has seen generations of Rochelle-area residents come out to pick pumpkins each October. “It’s just something we’ve always done,” Jeff Seebach said. “When you’ve done it for 40-plus years, it’s something that you just do.” “The community is ecstatic that we do it every year and keep doing it. I see people who bring their families here, and I remember them as kids.” The Seebachs grow about 10,000 pumpkins each year. Their operation has grown from just over an acre of planting to six acres. Pumpkins are planted in early June and later on in that month weeding and thinning starts and takes about three weeks. Mother Nature takes it from there, and the sales location and picking crew are readied in early September. The pumpkin growing season this year was challenged by extremely wet, then extremely dry conditions, the Seebachs said, which resulted in the loss of about a third of their crop, especially the larger pumpkins. But the community doesn’t have to worry about coming out to a sold-out Seebach’s Pumpkins stand this year. The brothers will purchase pumpkins and resell them if it comes to that. “We want to make sure we have pumpkins on hand no matter what to keep people coming out and keep people coming back year after year,” Jeff Seebach said. “We don’t want to run out a week before Halloween and have people come out here and not get one. We want to make sure they come back next year. We want to make sure everyone gets a pumpkin.”
Photos by Jeff Helfrich
ABOVE: Seebach’s Pumpkins was started by the late Jerry Seebach and taken over by his sons, Jeff (left) and Scott (right), who now do the work with their children and help from other family members and friends. BELOW: The Seebach family has been growing and selling pumpkins in Flagg Center just outside Rochelle for the past 44 years. Growing six acres of pumpkins serves the Rochelle community and customers that come from the towns surrounding it. The Seebach brothers look at yields and sales numbers each year when considering their approach to the next year. Jeff Seebach enjoys seeing families come out to the pumpkin stand each year as a family tradition and letting their kids run around and pick a pumpkin. Scott enjoys walking his dog in the mornings in his neighborhood and seeing pumpkins on doorsteps and porches. “Fall seems to be a lot of people’s favorite season,” Scott Seebach said. “I like it. It’s my passion to grow pumpkins for the fall for people to enjoy. The community really supports us. There are a lot of customers that come out and thank us for doing it. They tell us not to give it up.” The Seebachs look forward to families coming out to the stand this year and in years to come. The tradition that has
lived on for generations of Rochelle-area families – and generations of the Seebach family – will continue to live on. “It’s fun to see generations of families come out here for pumpkins,” Scott Seebach said. “My son and Jeff’s daughter
have helped out with the pumpkin growing and sales. They’re the third generation. We did it with our dad. It’s fun to keep the family involved. We thank the community for supporting us. We’ll do it as long as we can.”
5 OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
Olde English Faire in Oregon By ALEX T. PASCHAL
OCL
apaschal@shawmedia.com Brewing up a mix of fantasy and history, the Olde English was poured out at the Stronghold castle in Oregon for the annual faire Sunday, Oct. 5. Visitors could tour the castle, learn sword play, peruse
vendors, listen to music and be educated on Middle Ages history during the weekend festival. The fair runs in conjunction with Oregon’s Autumn on Parade celebration.
Photos by Alex T. Paschal
TOP LEFT: Loki, a citrus leatherback bearded dragon, hangs out with Serafina Wyncoop of Yorkville Sunday, Oct. 5, during the Olde English Faire at the Stronghold in Oregon. The fair was running in conjunction with Oregon’s Autumn on Parade celebration. TOP RIGHT: Countess Lennox, aka Margaret Douglas (left) and Countess Lincoln, aka Elisabeth Fitzgerald, play a game of cables Sunday, Oct. 5, in the parlor of Stronghold. The castle was opened to visitors during the Old English Faire. ABOVE: Dan the Bard plays with this merry group of musicians Sunday, Oct. 5, during a show at the Olde English Faire, at the Stronghold. LEFT: Sarah Bogosh of Chicago, dons a fantastic outfit while touring the Olde English Faire on Sunday, Oct. 5, at the Stronghold. The fair hosted a mix of fantasy and history on the grounds of the Oregon castle.
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
6
Streamwood woman killed in Saturday crash Ogle County fatal accident occurred when scooter collided with pickup truck SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com A Streamwood woman was killed
Saturday, Oct. 4, in a two-vehicle crash on Pines Road, between Oregon and Polo. Kathryn L. Good, 68, of Streamwood, was pronounced deceased at the scene after the 4 p.m. collision near
5000 W. Pines Road, Ogle County sheriff’s deputies said in a news release. According to the news release, Good was traveling east on Pines Road on a 2018 Yamaha SMAX scooter when a westbound 2017 Ford F150 pickup truck began to turn south into a private drive. An initial investigation determined that Good “struck the rear quarter panel of the Ford due to the Ford turn-
ing in front of the Yamaha”. Good sustained life-threatening injuries and was later pronounced dead at the scene. The occupants of the Ford were uninjured, the release said. The crash remains under investigation. Deputies were assisted at the scene by Oregon Fire/EMS and the Ogle County Highway Department.
Rochelle Christian Food Pantry set record in August Cal Jacobs: ‘The need has nearly doubled in the past 5 years’ By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com The Rochelle Christian Food Pantry at 770 Lincoln Ave. set a record for families served in August 2025, board member Cal Jacobs said Sept. 25. The food pantry that serves Rochelle served 747 families during its nine openings in August, with an average of 83 families per day. Its previous record was an average of 73 families per day in a month. Jacobs said RCFP is seeing about three to four new client families per week. The RCFP has seen numbers rise in recent years. The food pantry is open from 12:30-3:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays. People can either pick up boxes or come in and do their own shopping. On distribution days, cars are often lined up as early as 9 a.m. and occasionally distribution starts early to serve the large number of people in time. “We’re keeping up with the need,” Jacobs said. “It keeps us busy. We’re always looking for more volunteers. It takes 15-16 people every day we open the doors. Getting 16 people to volunteer twice a week is a task, but we’re getting through it so far. I started here in 2020. We were running about 35-40 families a day. Now we’re up to 70-80. The need has nearly doubled in the past five years.” Jacobs and RCFP attribute the rise in need to the economy and reductions in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits post COVID-19. “SNAP benefits went way up during COVID-19 and now they’re coming back down,” Jacobs said. “People were used to getting $700-800 per month and are now getting $200-300. That hasn’t helped. Inflation and prices at the grocery store are big issues as well. Those are the reasons we hear from clients when they come in.” President Donald Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law July 4. The legislation makes almost $200 billion in cuts in the next 10 years to SNAP. The bill changes eligibility requirements, putting an estimated 360,000 Illinoisans at risk of losing SNAP ben-
Jeff Helfrich
The Rochelle Christian Food Pantry has seen numbers rise in recent years. The food pantry is open from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays. efits. Area food pantries expect an increase in demand when the SNAP cuts take effect. SNAP is a federal program that provides monthly benefits to low-income individuals and families to help them purchase food. Gov. JB Pritzker’s office has said that almost one in five Illinois SNAP recipients are at risk of losing food benefits. Cuts to SNAP won’t take full effect until after the 2026 midterm elections. Along with the change in eligibility requirements, Illinois and other states will have to cover a greater portion of costs for the SNAP program. “I don’t see the need slowing down,” Jacobs said. “Once it gets this high and with all the new people we’re getting every week, I think it’s going to continue to grow. It’s been sustainable for us to be able to support this many people so far. If someone asked me if we could support this many people in 2020, I would’ve said they were crazy.” RCFP has had days where it served as many as 120 families. Jacobs said years ago, serving 60 families in a day was considered a high number, but now numbers are consistently in the 70s, 80s and 90s. “The work our volunteers do is huge,” Jacobs said. “If it wasn’t for them, this place wouldn’t be open. Nobody here gets anything for their work. They just volunteer their time. I spend about 40 hours a month here. I like to do it. I like to give back. It’s not much
more work to serve this much more people. We don’t have to do anything special. We just have to do what we usually do, many more times an hour than we did before.” Jacobs said that RCFP is always accepting donations, and canned goods is its highest need area. He thanked the community for its volunteer efforts along with donations of food and money. If people want to donate or volunteer, they can stop by the food pantry at 770 Lincoln Ave. on Tuesdays and Fridays. This year, RCFP has seen large donations of $15,000 from From the Heart, $5,000 from the Rochelle Moose Lodge, $5,000 from United Way, and $5,000 from Rochelle Foods. Jacobs said the food pantry’s mission could not be met without that support. Rochelle Foods also recently donated $5,000 to the Rochelle Area Community Foundation’s Rochelle Foods Hunger Challenge Fund, which was established in 2011 by Jacobs when he was the plant manager at Rochelle Foods. The fund has grown from $5,000 to over $200,000 and now grants out over $8,000 a year to the RCFP or school programs that provide meals for kids. “Getting donations like the one from Rochelle Foods means the world,” Jacobs said. “When I was there for 16 years I had several opportunities to work someplace else. And every time I turned it down. Because I love the community and I loved my workforce. The community is very giving. Every time there was somebody in the plant that had a challenge, everyone in the plant pitched in to help. There are fantastic people in this community.” The Rochelle Christian Food Pantry is the only organization of its kind in Rochelle. “Without RCFP here, there would be a lot more homeless people,” Jacobs said. “There would be a lot more starving people. We’re the lynchpin to the food distribution in the community. “We have people who come from other towns. They say they come because they heard how good our pantry is and how much we have to offer and give away. We only serve them one time and tell them to find a place in their own community. Because we’re servicing our area and the people in it.”
• HILL STREET The apartments will be deemed affordable housing, but at a level of 50% of the area median income rather than the typical 30%. The duplexes will be uniform with those in the subdivision next door and the development won’t stand out from other areas of Mt. Morris. Hill Street will be extended for the development. The general contractor for the project is North Arrow Partners, and Jeff Cronin, its chief technical officer, said Oct. 7 that construction will take about 14 months to complete. He called the need for affordable housing “a crisis” and the need for permanent supportive housing “so much greater.” “Delivering 24 new homes for people with disabilities is a special occasion and so needed,” Cronin said. “At North Arrow we’ve done some permanent supportive housing across the state. It can be a challenge. It’s admirable that the community and leadership here support this project. They understand what a wonderful addition to the community this will be. We’re excited to get started.” Mt. Morris was chosen as the location of the project because the commu-
Continued from page A2 and not an avenue to be like everyone else. If we were alike, it would be a boring life. For instance, Social Security doesn’t give the same check to everyone on the program. Instead, it’s based on
nity was receptive to it and the village is small and walkable with the right amenities. The 20 acres of land was purchased from a farmer that owned the land. The first phase of the project includes six acres for the development and four acres for the park, which will be the only park in the northeast quadrant of Mt. Morris. The remainder of the property will be held in reserve for possible
future phases, which may be more market-based housing or privately owned residences. ComEd has supported the Hill Street Neighborhood project with a grant for energy efficiency that will include “state-of-the-art” equipment, such as high-performance windows, HVAC equipment and lighting. “Our energy efficiency team has worked to put together some of the most
OCL
• HARRIS
Jeff Helfrich
ComEd External Affairs Manager and Kreider Services Board of Directors Vice President Nick Escobar speaks at a groundbreaking for the Hill Street Neighborhood on Tuesday, Oct. 7, in Mt. Morris.
7 OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
Continued from page A3
advanced energy efficient programs and development possible,” ComEd External Affairs Manager and Kreider Services Board of Directors Vice President Nick Escobar said. “We’re going to be able to save energy across the board and with energy prices rising we know how important that is. “It will save enough power to cover nearly 40 homes per year. There will be close to $60,000 in incentives that this project will receive from ComEd.” The Village of Progress has been serving adults with developmental disabilities in Ogle County since 1969. Kreider Services provides direct care programs to people with developmental disabilities. Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities Director Kim Mercer-Schleider thanked Stauter and Brooks for their dedication to the project. “Their work inspired the council to invest further in more technical assistance for other developmental disability service providers that are interested in housing like this,” Mercer-Schleider said. “We need more of this. We need more passion and innovative, committed service providers. We need more people to understand why this is important.”
previous income. Medicare doesn’t cost the same for each individual but adjusts payments depending on any income you may receive while being on the program. These are not social programs in the definition of the word. These are programs that help our neighbors, family, and friends survive their preferred status in life.
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
8
Meridian Schools to address facility needs with projects, no referendum SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com The Meridian Community Unit School District will move forward with state-mandated Health/Life Safety projects to improve existing facilities after a recent communitywide survey indicated a lack of support for a bond referendum at this time, according to a news release. The survey, conducted by the independent research firm School Perceptions, was designed to gather resident feedback on the district’s facility challenges and potential solutions. The survey was completed by 822 residents, providing the Board of Education with guidance on facility
planning. When asked for advice, a weighted analysis of residents showed 27.2% supported exploring a bond referendum to complete projects beyond the required HLS updates. A specific proposal to build a new PK-5 elementary school through a $47.8 million bond referendum received weighted support from just 25.6% of residents. Support for smaller bond amounts was also below passing levels. “We are incredibly grateful to the hundreds of community members who took the time to provide thoughtful feedback,” said Michael Plourde, superintendent of schools. “The message from the survey is clear: Residents value the high-quality education
Meridian provides, but there is not an appetite for a tax increase to fund major new construction at this moment. The board is listening, and we will respect the community’s decision.” Based on this feedback, the district will focus its capital improvement efforts on the legally required HLS projects. These facility updates, which the district will fund without a referendum, are necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff. The scope of work across the district includes HVAC improvements, roofing system replacements, interior renovations, and site work, according to the release. The survey also affirmed the community’s confidence in the district’s
educational programs, the release said. A strong majority of respondents (84%) rated the district as “Great” or “Good” at delivering a high-quality education, placing Meridian in the 70th percentile when compared to other districts. “Our priority is to be responsible stewards of both our financial resources and our school buildings,” Plourde said. “Proceeding with these necessary health and life safety projects allows us to address our most pressing facility needs while honoring the feedback we received from our taxpayers.” Meridian Community Unit School District serves approximately 1,465 students in Stillman Valley, Davis Junction and Monroe Center.
Stillman Valley High School to host blood drive Oct. 21 SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com The Stillman Valley National Honor Society is playing host to a community blood drive from 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, at Stillman Valley High School. Anyone in good health, at least 17 years old, or 16 years old with parental consent, and at least 110 pounds may donate blood. For every pint of blood donated, up to three lives can be saved. Not only will you help to save lives but also help the senior members of the National Honor Society to earn a college scholarship. To make an appointment, contact Michelle Rogers at mrogers@mail. meridian223.org. Stillman Valley High School’s National Honor Society is holding a blood drive from 1-6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21 at the school.
Jeff Helfrich
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com Compeer Financial recently announced awards to 65 schools in Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin for a total of $239,815 to support agricultural education programs and equipment through its Agriculture Education and Classroom Equipment Grant Program. Forreston Junior/Senior High School/Forrestville Valley CUSD 221 received a grant for polycarbonate panels and connection supplies for its greenhouse. The grants represent Compeer’s commitment to rural communities by providing middle and high school students with hands-on learning experiences and new technologies that showcase the limitless opportunities within the agricultural industry, according to a news release. Part of Compeer Financial’s Fund for Rural America, the Farm Credit cooperative’s giving program, the Agriculture Education and Classroom Equipment Grant Program is intended
industry,” said Karen Schieler, manager of corporate giving at Compeer Financial. “Compeer is committed to helping ag education programs have access to classroom equipment and technology so students can have realworld experiences. These grants provide support to high school programs that are essential to creating the next generation of agriculture advocates.” Each recipient school will receive up to $4,000 to fund programs and technologies for a variety of classes linked to agriculture, including animal and plant sciences, food science/chemistry, veterinary, horticulture, mechanics, forestry/wildlife, aquatics and more. Of this year’s recipients, 31 schools, Submitted photo or 34%, are receiving the Agriculture Education and Classroom Equipment Forreston Junior/Senior High School/Forrestville Valley CUSD 221 received a grant for polycarGrant for the first time. bonate panels and connection supplies for its greenhouse. Middle and high school agriculture to give students a glimpse into the survival to inspire the next generation d e p a r t m e n t s w i t h i n C o m p e e r ’ s many ways agriculture touches our of farmers, ranchers, innovators and 144-county territory are eligible to lives and spark interest in pursuing a leaders, according to the release. apply for the grant program, provided career in the ag industry. With a mere “We know when young people expe- they did not receive a grant during the 1.2% of U.S. employment tied to direct rience agriculture through hands-on prior two years. The 2026 application on-farm jobs, it is vital to humanity’s activities, it sparks a passion for the will open in April 2026.
OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
FJSHS gets grant to fund ag programs, equipment 9
OCL
Stream DIRECTV to any device no satellite dish needed. Contact your local DIRECTV dealer! IVS Holdings
866.397.0263
CHOICE ™
PACKAGE
$89
.99*
/MO.
FOR 24 MO + TAX & FEES.
($117.98/mo.w/ req’d Regional Sports Fee of up to $17.99/mo.& $10/mo. Geminileasefee). Cancel anytime.
Service subject to DIRECTV terms and conditions (see https://www.directv.com/legal/legal-policy-center/). Available only in the U.S. (excludes Puerto Rico and U.S.V.I.). Some offers may not be available through all channels and in select areas. Different offers may apply for eligible multi-dwelling units. DIRECTV App: Req’s compatible device and data connection or high-speed internet; data/ internet charges may apply. Requires high speed internet. Minimum internet speed of 8Mbps per stream recommended for optimal viewing. Pricing: CHOICE $117.98/mo. for 2 years. After 2 years, continues month to month at then-current prevailing prices unless canceled. Prices reflect base package prices plus one req’d. $10/mo. Gemini lease fee and, for CHOICE Pkg. or higher, a Regional Sports Fee (RSF) of up to $17.99/mo. varies by location. May be lower in some areas. $10/mo. for each additional device added to your account. Additional Fees & Taxes: State and local taxes or other governmental fees and charges may apply including any such taxes, fees or charges assessed against discounted fees or service credits. See directv.com/directv-fees/ for additional information. DIRECTV Svc Terms: Subject to Equipment Lease & Customer Agreements. Taxes, surcharges, add-on programming (including premium channels), DIRECTV TECH PROTECT (www.directv.com/techprotect) Lease Agreement and transactional fees, are not included in two-year price guarantee. Visit directv.com/legal/ or call for details. Equipment Non-Return-Fees: If service is cancelled you must return all leased devices to avoid a non-return fee of $120 per device. Regional Sports & Local Channels: Regional sports available with CHOICE Pkg. and above. Not available in select areas. Channels vary by package & billing region. Device may need to be in billing region in order to view. Limits: Programming subject to blackout restrictions. All programming, terms & restrictions subject to change at any time without notice. See directv.com for details. Premium Channels Offer: Max: Access Max through Max app or max.com with your DIRECTV log-in credentials. Visit directv.com to verify/create your account. Use of Max is subject to its own terms and conditions, see max.com/terms-of-use for details. To learn more, visit directv.com/max. Paramount+ with SHOWTIME: Access Paramount+ with SHOWTIME streaming plan through Paramount+ app or paramountplus.com with your DIRECTV log-in credentials. Visit directv.com to verify/create your account. Use of Paramount+ is subject to its own terms and conditions, see viacomcbs.legal/us/en/pplus/sub-terms for details. Access to Paramount+ requires a subscription to Paramount+ with SHOWTIME and access to your local CBS affiliate. To learn more, visit directv.com/paramountplussho. General Terms: Programming and content subj. to change. Offer requires account to stay in good standing. Upon cancellation of your video service you may lose access to Max and Paramount+. Cancel your premium channels online at directv.com or by phone at 800-531- 5000. If you cancel your service, you will no longer be eligible for this offer. Limits: Access to one Max account and one Paramount+ account per DIRECTV account holder. May not be stackable w/other offers, credits or discounts. Max and related elements are property of Home Box Office, Inc. Cinemax and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. SHOWTIME is a registered trademark of Showtime Networks Inc., a Paramount Company. Paramount+ and related marks are trademarks of Paramount Pictures Corporation. All rights reserved. Starz and related channels and service marks are the property of Starz Entertainment, LLC. Visit starz.com for airdates/times. MGM+ is a trademark of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Lion Corp. 2025 DIRECTV. DIRECTV and all other DIRECTV marks are trademarks of DIRECTV, LLC. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
Rochelle hospital closes 2nd Street entrance to H&W Center amid work SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com Rochelle Community Hospital in September began its multi-year facilities improvement initiative, including a significant expansion of its Health & Wellness Building located at the south side of the campus. One of the first of the many updates was to reroute the Health & Wellness entrance to be adjacent to its emergency exit on Third Street. The change was officially completed Friday, Sept. 26. Continuing on to the next phase, Schmeling Construction Company started the process of closing the entrance to the Health & Wellness Center from Second Street. As of Wednesday, Oct. 1, that entrance is now closed. All patients and visitors now will have to use the newest Third Street entrance to access the Health & Wellness Center, Family Healthcare Clinic and Multi-Specialty Clinic. “This renovation reflects RCH’s commitment to reinvesting in services for our community,” a news release said. For construction and wayfinding updates, visit www. rochellehospital.com/construction-updates/.
Jeff Helfrich
Rochelle Community Hospital is continuing facility improvements.
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
10
SERVICES Tree Trimming & Removal Stump Grinding Storm Clean Up Lawncare Landscaping Spring & Fall Clean-Up
Girl Scouts builds girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place.
1-844-476-4463 www.girlscoutsni.org
Shrubbery Trimming & Planting Mulching Forestry Cutting
WELLNESS PANEL INCLUDES: FULL LIPID PANEL (FASTING CHOLESTEROL) COMPLETE METABOLIC PANEL (14 TESTS)
Gabriel Mack
pineview@daystar.io Phone • Fax 779-251-0254 • 815-946-4372
HEMOGLOBIN A1C (3 MONTHS SUGAR)
$100 AREA AVERAGE $754 VALUE LAB IN-HOUSE $181 NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED
11 OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
Oregon’s Autumn on Parade By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent treats in the festival’s food court. The Olde English Faire was held at the Stronghold Retreat, and Conference Center, both days for an admission fee. But the big draw on Sunday was again, the Harvest Time Parade with 125 units threading their way along downtown streets with thousands lined along the way waiting to see marching bands, acrobats, and more. This year’s parade theme was “Carving Creativity” and included hired entertainment as well as local Scout and youth groups and local businesses. This year’s Unit of Honor was the Rock River Center and the Guests of Honor were Mark Gale and Kevin Wiegmann. E.D. Etnyre was Autumn on Parade’s 2025 Presenting Sponsor. Autumn on Parade was founded in 1970 and is organized and operated by an all-volunteer committee. Festival weekend is aided with support from the City of Oregon, Ogle County, the Oregon School District and Oregon Park District. “A big thank you to our wonderful sponsors and hardworking volunteers who make this festival a fantastic success,” Benesh said. To volunteer to help with the 2026 festival, visit autumnonparade.org or Facebook.
OCL
It didn’t really feel like fall, but the thousands who filled Oregon’s downtown streets on Saturday and Sunday for the annual Autumn on Parade festival didn’t seem to care. A steady stream of visitors came to the town of 3,800 residents to shop for unique, handmade items, bounce around in the kids’ Fun Zone, check out classic cars and trucks, listen to live music and watch a 125-unit parade, all for free. “It was an amazing weekend. The beautiful weather brought out lots of friendly faces to our downtown area both days, making the whole event so lively and enjoyable,”Autumn on Parade president Destini Benesh said. Temperatures climbed into the mid80s and sunny skies made the October event feel more like July, but that didn’t deter visitors from coming out to the 2-day festival. The heart of the festival is its 190-plus vendor booths in the “Market,” located around the Ogle County Courthouse square and nearby streets. Saturday events also included a car and tractor show at Oregon Park East and live music and beer garden at the Hot Spot, on Jefferson Street. On both days, kids could bounce to their delight in the Kids Zone or visit the petting zoo and sample a variety of
Photos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
TOP LEFT: Sunny skies and hot temperatures greeted visitors to the Harvest Time Parade held during Autumn on Parade on Sunday, Oct. 5, in Oregon. Here, the Oregon Fire Department raises an American flag for the national anthem in front of the parade-viewing stand on South Fourth Street. TOP RIGHT: The “Dancing Grannies” of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, were a crowd favorite at the Harvest Time Parade on Sunday. ABOVE: This vendor booth sold homemade cookies in the Market at Autumn on Parade Saturday, and Sunday, Oct. 4-5, in Oregon.
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
12
AREA CHURCH DIRECTORY BYRON ALL SAINTS LUTHERAN CHURCH
624 Luther Drive, Byron IL 61010 815-234-5277 Pastor: Vicar Michelle Wandersee Sunday Worship Service held at 9:00 am. A recording of each Sunday’s worship service is available on our Facebook page and our website later in the day. Communion is served every Sunday. Sunday School for ages 3 through Adult is held at 10:00 am September through May. Confirmation studies for 7th and 8th grade students are held each Sunday morning at 10:00 am. Monday afternoon Bible Study is held at 1:30 pm via Zoom. In person Bible Studies are held Tuesday evening at 7:00 pm and Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 pm. Book Club and The GATHERING meet monthly; quilters meet twice monthly. Visit our website http:// www.AllSaintsByron.org or call the church office for further information.
CORNERSTONE FAMILY CHURCH
205 N. Peru St., Byron 815-234-8737 cornerstonefam ily.church Sr. Pastor: Erik Ness, NextGen/ Family Pastor: Collin Nicholls Children’s Ministry Director: Katie Dodd Worship Service on Sundays at 10am with Children ‘s Worship Service and Nursery Available Revive Jr High and Sr High Youth Ministries Meet Sundays at 6:30pm Numerous Small Groups Available for All Ages throughout the week . Please call our Church Office or visit our website for more details . Office Hours: 8:00am -4:30pm Mondays-Thursdays
BYRON ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH
226 E. 2nd St, Byron, IL 61010 - Phone 815-234-7431 – Fr. Richard Rosinski. Weekday Masses: Tuesday – Friday 7:30am, Weekend Masses: Sat. 5:00 pm, Sun. 8:00 am and 9:30 am, Reconciliation: Fri. 8:00 am – 8:30 am; Sat. 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm or by app. Eucharist Adoration Fri. 8-9am www.saintmaryinbyron.org secretary@saintmaryinbyron.org
UNITED CHURCH OF BYRON
A Member of the United Church of Christ 701 W. Second Street; PO Box 927, Byron IL 61010, 815-234-8777 Email: ucb@comcast.net Website: unitedchurchofbyron.org Pastor: Rev. Tyler Spellious Youth Ministry Coordinator: Richard Simpson Sunday Schedule & Worship opportunities: Service of Meditation & Prayer: 8:15am- 8:45am Adult Sunday School Hour: 9am Kids Sunday School: (for ages 3 thru 5th grade) during the 10:30 worship Coffee & fellowship time: 10:00am - 10:30am Main Worship: 10:30am Spark Youth Group (for ages 6th grade thru 12th grade) - Sundays, 5pm-7pm For complete ministry schedule and other activities, please check our website or Facebook page or contact the church office. Whoever you are or wherever you are on your journey, you are welcome here!
BEACON HILL ASSEMBLY OF GOD
“Building Faith for Life” 6467 N. German Church Rd., Byron, IL - Ph. (815) 246-2685 - beaconhillbyron.org Mailing Address: P.O. Box 448, Byron, IL 61010 Pastor: Gary Cortese Service Times: Sundays at 10AM; Wednesday night Faith-Lift at 6:30PM Find us on Facebook/Beacon Hill Assembly of God
CHANA CHANA UNITED METHODIST
Pastor Josh Brown, 606 Main Street, Chana, IL 61015. Church office 815-732-7683. (E-mail address: chanaumc@gmail.com Adult & Children’s Education 9:00 a.m. Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion celebrated the first Sunday of each month. At Chana Church you will find Open Hearts-Open Minds-Open Doors.
DIXON LOST LAKE COMMUNITY CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE Pastor Bob Clardie 815-535-6990 90 W. Flagg Road Dixon IL 61021
8:30am Sunday School 9:30am Church Service www.lostlakechurch.org
FORRESTON FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH
402 2nd Avenue, Forreston, IL 61030, Phone 815-938-3203Pastor Scott Ralston Sunday Worship 9:00 am; Sunday School 10:00 am
FORRESTON FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
402 First Ave., Forreston, IL Phone: 815-938-2380 Worship at 9:00 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 9 am to 11 am Sunday Mornings: Divine Service @ 9am; Food & Fellowship @ 10am; Sunday School and Adult Bible Study @ 10:30am Food Bank: 1st and 3rd Saturdays, 9am-11am 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 DISCIPLES UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
“By God’s grace in Christ, we LIVE, LOVE, and SERVE” All are welcome here! 9:30 a.m. – Sunday Worship with Communion open to all, followed by fellowship hour 10:45 a.m. Sunday School (Sep. – May) 102 N. Maple Ave., Mt. Morris, IL 61054 815-734-4853 secretary@disciplesumc.org www.disciplesumc.org Pastor Marcia Peddicord
EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH OF MT. MORRIS
102 S. Seminary Ave., Mt. Morris, IL 61054 815-734-4942 www.efcmm.org Senior Pastor: Bruce McKanna. Sunday Schedule: 8:30 a.m. Sunday School for all ages. 9:30 a.m. Coffee Fellowship. 10:00 a.m. Morning Worship with Childcare and Children’s Church.
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!
OREGON ST. BRIDE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
1000 Highway 64, West (Hwy 64 W & Mongan Drive on Liberty Hill), Oregon 7327211 – Office Rev. Eldred George Webpage: saintbrides.org • E-mail:saint.bride.church@gmail.com Worship Services: Sunday 10 am Holy Communion with Hymns Christian Education Available
ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH, NALC
114 S. 5th St. Oregon, IL Phone: (815) 732-2367 Website: stpaulnalcoregonil.weebly.com 10:15 a.m. Fellowship/Education hours 11:30 a.m. Worship
POLO CHURCH OF THE OPEN BIBLE
302 S. Franklin Ave., Polo, Illinois • 815-946-2848 • Luke N. Schier, Pastor Sunday Worship: 9:30am We include our children in our Sunday Worship Experience. “”THE GRAND Kids Class” Ages 3-10 are then dismissed right after Praise & Worship. Blended Services. “Passion for God” “Compassion for People” Visit our website: PoloOpenBible.org
CROSSROADS COMMUNITY CHURCH ~ POLO CAMPUS
Meeting Sundays @ 10AM Service 205 N. Jefferson Avenue, Polo ~ 815.837.5255 polo@crossroadscn.com We offer contemporary worship and relevant Bible teaching through engaging messages and powerful video. Join us after services for coffee, snacks & fellowship. Kidzlink Children’s Ministry (nursery-5th grade) ~ during 10AM service Crave Youth Group (6th-12th grade) ~Wed. 6:30PM - June 1st . Visit our website: www.crossroadscn.com
FAITH DISCOVERY CHURCH
801 W. Oregon St., Polo • 815-946-3588 • Jeremy Heller, Pastor Sunday School 9:00 a.m., Worship Service 10:00 a.m., Nursery Available, Wednesday Bible Study 7:00 p.m. We Are an independent non-denominational Christian church. Visitors are always welcome.
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. 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 RED BRICK CHURCH OF STILLMAN VALLEY
Pastor Rev. Dr. Chris Brauns | Associate Pastor David Bogner 207 W Roosevelt Road (Rte 72), Stillman Valley. 815-645-2526 | www.theredbrickchurch.org Sunday: Worship at 9:00 and 10:30 am. Sunday School at 9:00 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
8195 Kishwaukee Road, Stillman Valley, IL 61084 / 815-965-1940 Rev. Nick Garner, Pastor www.kishchurch.org Sunday Schedule: Discipleship Hour 9:00 AM, Coffee Fellowship 11:15 AM Gathered Worship 10:00 AM For complete ministry schedule check out our website or call the church office.
VALLEY EVANGELICAL COVENANT CHURCH
Lead Pastor Barry Norris 103 S Maple St, Stillman Valley, IL 815-645-8872 | www.valleycov.org Sunday Morning 9am ‘Gather’ for learning & conversation, 10:15am Worship both onsite and online at facebook.com/VECCfSV Home of Valley Covenant Preschool 815-645-8882 Director Jill Huber Bible Studies, Youth Group, Bread of Life Food Pantry Please visit website for more information or contact the church office M-F 9am-2pm
WINNEBAGO MIDDLE CREEK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
12473 Montague Road, Winnebago, IL 61088 Located West of Tower Road on Montague Rd. Sunday: Worship Service at 10:30 am. Pastor Phil Thompson Phone: 815-335-2609. Email: middlecreekchurch@gmail.com
Photos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
ABOVE: Wildhaven Carrle Co. of Forreston, brought some of their mini Highland cows to the Harvest Time Parade held during the Autumn on Parade festival in Oregon on Sunday. RIGHT: 2025 Ogle County Fair Queen Ruby Mulvaney (center), Second Runner Up Ali Danekas (left), and First Runner Up Julia Hoefle (right) wave to the crowd as they ride in the Harvest Time Parade during the Autumn on Parade festival on Sunday in Oregon.
29
$
95 ANY BRAND
We Service All Makes & Models. Test & check.
Over 30 Years Experience.
AFFORDABLE WATER
815-625-3426 Toll Free: 877-353-7638
SM-ST2274229
OCL
SERVICE CALL SPECIAL
OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
Sunshine aids turnout of Oregon’s harvest parade
13
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
14
No change of judge for Ogle County woman charged with suffocating son By EARLEEN HINTON
Dachsies to Danes
Shaw Local News Network correspondent An Oregon woman charged with killing her 7-year-old son in 2021 will not get a new judge to preside over her case. Sarah Safranek, 38, sat motionless with her attorney, Ogle County Public Defender Kathleen Isley on Wednesday, Oct. 8, as Ogle County Chief Judge John “Ben” Roe denied her request to replace Associate Judge Anthony Peska. Safranek is accused of suffocating her son, Nathaniel Burton, in the family’s Oregon home in February 2021. She is charged with five counts of first-degree murder and one count of aggravated battery. She was arrested April 21, 2021, was indicted May 4, 2021, and pleaded not guilty May 6, 2021. She has been held in the Ogle County Jail since her arrest. Isley filed a defense motion in September stating that Safranek could not receive a fair trial if Peska remained as the presiding judge. Judge John Redington was the initial judge for Safranek’s case, presiding over many hearings and delivering pretrial rulings, before he retired in 2024. Roe entered an order in July 2024 assigning the case to Peska upon Redington’s retirement. Wednesday’s hearing was just the third time in more than a year that Safranek has appeared in court, as some pre-trial rulings made by Redington were under appeal. Peska only presided over one hearing for Safranek, on Sept. 17, 2025, when the motion for a substitute judge was made. But Isley had argued that Safranek’s case should be assigned to another judge and that the motion asking for the substitution was timely due to the monthslong delay, as the appeal was pending. She argued that the trial would not have been done before Judge Redington retired and no matters could be heard while rulings were under appeal. Assistant Ogle County State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten disagreed, arguing that Isley’s motion was “untimely” and had missed the 10-day window to ask for a substitute judge. Isley said Peska had never ruled on any matters in relation to the case, making the state’s argument that case law supports a 10-day filing limit inapplicable. Roe disagreed. “The 10 days ran from the date of the
Pet Care Services Boarding, Dog Park, Grooming, Pet Products & Rescue
Sarah Safranek
Family Owned & Operated • Over 25 Years of Experience
Nathaniel Burton
reassignment,” said Roe. “I believe that is supported by case law.” Roe said he had reviewed case law and considered all of the attorneys’ arguments before rendering his decision. He said the 10-day time period was his reason to deny the motion and not a comment made in the defense motion that claimed Peska was “so prejudiced against her [Safranek] that she cannot receive a fair trial.” Isley clarified that the word “prejudiced” was only used as a legal language required for the motion. Safranek’s next court date is 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, in Peska’s courtroom. Safanek’s jury trial was removed from the court calendar in July 2024 following a motion by prosecutors who argued that some rulings made by Redington limited the evidence they wanted to present to jurors. They argued Redington’s decision had “impaired” their ability to proceed with first-degree murder charges. Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock filed an appeal July 10, 2024, nine days after Redington ruled on several motions in limine filed by the defense and prosecutors. Motions in limine determine whether certain evidence may be presented to the jury. They are commonly entered and argued before a trial begins, allowing evidentiary questions to be decided by the judge. Motions in limine in the Safranek case have been sealed and are not viewable to the public. In June 2024, Redington listened to testimony and arguments regarding the motions and, after reviewing case law, limited the state’s ability to enter all internet searches and journal entries they said Safranek made. He also limited hearsay statements prosecutors said others made regarding domestic
See Son on page 21
Call for an Appointment
815-453-2843
1751 Melugins Grove Road, Steward www.dachsiestodanes.net
ROCHELLE VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Compassionate Quality Care for your companion. Dr. Nicole Marquardt • Dr. Christina Edlebeck A Full-Service Clinic • Experienced Groomer • Boarding and Daycare • Surgical Laser • Digital Radiography • Gas Anesthetic • On-site Laboratory
• Geriatric Care • Dentistry • Dental Radiographs • Therapy Laser • Prescription Diet Pet Food
www.rochellevet.com Lobby Hours: Mon-Fri 8-5 • Sat 8-Noon
(815) 562-5207 • 1381 N. 7th St., Rochelle
Looking to Adopt? Visit our Website for Photos & Information about Available Pets!
2250 Barber Greene Road, DeKalb 815-758-2457 • tailshumanesociety.org Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri 12pm-7pm Thu 12pm-6pm • Sat & Sun 12pm-5:30pm
Tik Tok
TO ADVERTISE HERE, CONTACT: Chris McCarter Ackland • Rochelle News-Leader 815-632-2537 • cackland@shawmedia.com Chris Grimm • Ogle County Life 815-632-2504 • cgrimm@shawmedia.com SM-ST2273648
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
15
Chiropractic care is a holistic approach to health that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, with a particular emphasis on the spine. The core of chiropractic care is the premise that a healthy, properly aligned spine can support not only the body itself, but its natural healing abilities. Chiropractors are licensed health care professionals are often referred to as doctors of chiropractic (D.C.) According to data from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, approximately 11 percent of adults in the United States sought chiropractic care in 2022. It is a popular form of treatment in the United States as well as Canada, where the Canadian Chiropractic Association says about 16 percent of the adult population utilizes chiropractic care annually. A significant majority use chiropractic care for pain management, including neck and back pain. The NCCIH reports that there is a growing body of evidence supporting the benefits of chiropractic care. They note it is “generally considered a safe and effective treatment for back pain.” A 2018 study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association found that spinal manipulation therapy was associated with modest improvements in pain and function for patients with acute low back pain. The hallmark of chiropractic care is chiropractic adjustment, which uses the hands or a small instrument to apply a controlled, specific force to a joint. The goal is to improve spinal motion, re-
store joint function and alleviate pain. Beyond spinal adjustments, proaches, which address the root causes of patients’ pain instead chiropractors may use a variety of treatments, including massage, of just treating symptoms. Chiropractic care is a form of treatment that aims to address soft tissue therapy and corrective exercises. Some chiropractors also may provide nutritional counseling and lifestyle advice to help many issues that can affect the body. patients achieve overall wellness. This is common of holistic ap-
OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
Getting to know chiropractic care
OCL
NOW IN BYRON!
Male Wellness Panel
Female Wellness Panel
Includes all of the tests below at a discounted price 832 N. Galena Ave. Dixon | 404 W. Blackhawk Ste. 101, Byron, IL 815-677-9384 | www.valuelab-dixon.com
TIRED OF
OVERPAYING? OUR PRICE VS. AREA AVERAGE
$340
$240
$2,519.00 CBC CMP CRP HS LIPID PSA TESTOSTERONE A1C
$1,305.00 CBC CMP CRP HS LIPID THYROID PROFILE A1C
Other area labs:
Offering thousands of tests at prices you can afford. Give us a call. We are here to help Mon-Fri 7am-4pm
WE ACC EPT MEDICA RE & MEDICA ID
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
FAQ about diabetes Diabetes cases have risen dramatically in recent decades. According to the World Health Organiza- risk, as overweight or obesity are risk factors for the disease. A sedentary lifestyle in which people are tion, the number of people living with diabetes has more than quadrupled since 1990, rising from 200 physically active less than three times per week also is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. million that year to 830 million by 2022. The prevalence of diabetes underscores how significant a threat it poses across the globe. And What are the signs and symptoms of diabetes? recognition of that prevalence may prompt questions about the disease, including what can be done The WHO reports symptoms of diabetes may occur suddenly but also notes that they can take to prevent it. years to be noticed in people with type 2 diabetes. But some of the more notable symptoms include: • Feeling very thirsty What is diabetes? • Need for frequent urination The WHO notes diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce • Blurred vision enough insulin or the body cannot effectively utilize the insulin that is produced. The Centers for Dis• Fatigue ease Control and Prevention notes that’s problematic because insulin acts like a key to let blood sugar • Unintentional weight loss into the body’s cells for use as energy. The Kovler Diabetes Center at UChicagoMedicine notes that tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, a condition known as neuropathy, also may indicate the presence of diabetes. This occurs over Are there different types of diabetes? time because high glucose levels can damage the nervous system. Delayed healing of bruises or cuts Yes. The CDC notes type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed in children and young adults, though it’s or frequent infections also can be signs of diabetes. important people recognize it can be diagnosed at any age. Type 1 diabetes is believed to be caused Diabetes cases are on the rise across the globe, which only underscores the need for everyone to by an autoimmune reaction that stops the body from making insulin. People with type 1 diabetes must learn more about the disease and what can be done to prevent it. take insulin every day to survive. Type 2 diabetes is characterized by an inability to utilize insulin well and maintain normal blood sugar levels. Though the CDC notes more and more young people are being diagnosed with type 2 • Senior Information Service diabetes, the disease is more often diagnosed in adults and tends to develop over many years. • Transportation Gestational diabetes is another form of the disease that can develop in pregnant women who have • Medicare Counseling never had diabetes. Gestational diabetes typically goes away after giving birth, but the CDC notes a baby could be at elevated risk for health problems like childhood obesity or type 2 diabetes if a mother • Caregiver Services develops gestational diabetes during pregnancy. Serving Older Adults and Their Families Throughout Ogle County & Tours • Education/Recreation/Trips 10142024
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
16
Are there risk factors for diabetes? Risk factors vary for each type of diabetes. The risk factors for type 1 diabetes include family history, notably a first degree relative (i.e., parent or sibling) who has the disease, and age since most cases are diagnosed in childhood or adolescence. Age also is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, as the CDC notes most diagnoses of the disease are made in people age 45 and older. Risk for type 2 diabetes also is greater if a person has a first-degree relative with the condition, but that might be because families tend to live similar lifestyles relating to diet and exercise. A poor diet can increase type 2 diabetes
• Senior Information Service • Transportation • Medicare Counseling www.rockrivercenter.org • Caregiver Services810 • Education/Recreation/Trips & Tours South 10th St., Oregon Monday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. www.rockrivercenter.org (815) 732-3252 810 South 10th St., Oregon
(800) 541-5479 (815) 732-3252 | (800) 541-5479 Monday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Community Partner
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
17
Dementia is an umbrella term used to refer to various illnesses, including Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia is a sinister illness that slowly steals away memories, cognitive function and even personality. According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, as of 2020 there were an estimated 55 million people living with dementia around the world. That number is expected to rise to 139 million by 2050. The organization reports that someone develops dementia every three seconds. Alzheimer’s disease can be challenging for patients and their loved ones. Individuals may wonder if there are any controllable risk factors that ygen deprivation. Hypertension also may trigger can help prevent or delay the formation of the brain inflammation, which can contribute to cell disease. Although risk factors like age cannot be damage and cognitive decline. avoided, there are some controllable risk factors for Alzheimer’s. Diabetes Research indicates that type 2 diabetes inHigh blood pressure creases a person’s risk of developing dementia, High blood pressure, also known as hyper- and is dependent on the length of time someone tension, is a significant risk factor for dementia, has diabetes and how severe it is, says the Alzaccording to NYU Langone Health. High blood heimer’s Society. Diabetes, like hypertension, can pressure can damage the small blood vessels in cause damage to blood vessels feeding nutrients the brain, leading to reduced blood flow and ox- and oxygen to the brain.
Head trauma The Alzheimer’s Association reports there appears to be a link between Alzheimer’s and serious head trauma, especially when an injury causes loss of consciousness. Taking steps to avoid head injury may be a preventive step against Alzheimer’s.
Smoking Smoking is a tricky subject when it comes to Alzheimer’s research. A report published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia in June 2015 indicated cigarette smoking has been linked to both increased and decreased risk for Alzheimer’s disease. However, the study’s findings indicated overall former/active smoking is related to a significantly increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease because of the related cerebral oxidative stress that facilitates Alzheimer’s disease formation.
Alcohol There is a complex relationship between alcohol and Alzheimer’s disease. BrightFocus Foundation reports moderate alcohol use may accelerate Alzheimer’s disease, while the Alzheimer’s Association says recent research published in the journal Neuropsychiatric Disease has shown moderate drinking (two alcoholic drinks per day) reduces one’s chances of developing Alzheimer’s, while regular heavy drinking can increase the chances by 300 percent. Managing serious illnesses and modifying lifestyle choices may help keep Alzheimer’s disease at bay.
OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
Modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease
OCL
When you or a loved one are ready for care...
READY CARE
We’re ready for you!
Walk-In Care
NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED Now with locations in Sterling & Dixon! Dixon & Sterling Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8 am to 8 pm (OPEN THROUGH THE LUNCH HOUR!)
Saturday - Sunday: 8 am to 1:30 pm WWW.CGHMC.COM/READYCARE
1321 N. Galena Ave., Dixon, IL | 815.284.1600 (Inside CGH Dixon Medical Center)
Walk-In Care Includes: X-ray & Lab Services On-Site Workers’ Compensation, Initial Injury Visit Stitches, Strain/Sprain/Fracture Evaluation & Management Follow-Up Appointments Additional Services for...
Allergies, cold, influenza, ear infections, bladder infections, strep throat, pneumonia, COVID, rashes, camp & sports physicals, insect bites, minor burns and more!
15 W. 3rd Street, Sterling, IL | 855.460.2273 (Lower Level of CGH Downtown Clinic)
HEALTH AND WELLNESS The goal of palliative care ing illnesses. Palliative care is offered alongside other treatments a person may receive. The Mayo Clinic says palliative care largely involves managing pain and other symptoms of a serious illness. It also can help one cope with side effects from medical treatments. Palliative care does not depend on whether or not the condition can be cured.
• Lung diseases like emphysema • Multiple sclerosis (MS) • Parkinson’s disease • Stroke
Who offers palliative care? Teams of professionals provide palliative care. A care team can Is palliative care hospice care? consist of doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, Palliative care and hospice care are not one and the same. In fact, social workers, and spiritual advisors. hospice care is a type of palliative care that focuses exclusively on patients who are expected to live for six months or less. Palliative Which conditions can palliative care help with? care can be offered to patients with serious illnesses at any stage. Patients may receive palliative care to assist with symptoms of depression, pain, fatigue, constipation, nausea, difficulty sleeping, Who is palliative care for? anxiety, and much more, according to the organization Get PalliaJust about any person suffering from a serious, prolonged illness can benefit from palliative care. The Cleveland Clinic notes people tive Care.
Medical care often falls into two umbrella categories: curative and illness management. Palliative care belongs to the second category because it focuses on improving the quality of life for those with serious or life-threatening illnesses and is not designed to cure or eradicate an underlying condition. The World Health Organization says an estimated 56.8 million people, including 25.7 million with these conditions may benefit from palliative care. in the last year of life, require palliative care each year. However, • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) worldwide, only about 14 percent of people who need palliative • Alzheimer’s disease care currently receive it. • Cancer • Cardiovascular disease What does palliative care do? • Cystic fibrosis Palliative care can improve the quality of life of patients and their • HIV/AIDS families who are facing challenges associated with life-threaten• Kidney disease
When does palliative care end? There is no time limit on palliative care; it can last as long as the patient requires and is exhibiting symptoms suggesting care can help. Palliative care is an option for those facing serious illnesses. It is designed to help manage symptoms from the illness itself or the side effects of treatment.
FR I E N D LY. H E L P FU L . N E A R .
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
18
We’re part of your community. April Moore MD, FAAFP Family Practice
Dr. Moore is committed to helping patients of all ages make their best healthcare choices. She is currently welcoming new patients. To make an appointment, please call 815-599-7060. 803 First Avenue, Forreston 815-938-3130 | fhn.org
76th Grand Detour Arts Festival winners named contact@shawmedia.com The Grand Detour Arts Festival took place recently, and the results are in, with many accolades for area artisans.
2025 adult winners • Charles Kested Best of Show – Ryan Jandrey, Dixon • Best Painting Medium – Karen Tucker, Dixon; runner-up, Stuart Roddy, Coleta • Best 3D – Nancy Ocken, Polo; runner-up, Robert Spickerman, Sheridan • Best 2D – Ben Calvert, Villa Park; runner-up, Petal Pushers, Dixon • Best Photography – Stephen Hart, Sterling; runner-up, David Bingaman, Dixon • Best Woodwork – Michael Kriz, Walnut; runner-up, Bill Thumm, Rockford • Best Jewelry – Margaret Rogowski,
Lockport; runner-up, Carol Musial, Lombard • The Tradition Continues Award – Rachel Newell, Chillicothe
• Judge’s Choice – Kaylee Steele for mixed media Sixth grade through eighth grade:
• 1st – Olivia Showalter for oil pastel and Student winners watercolor Kindergarten through second grade: • 2nd – Kenzie Alletto for mixed media • 1st – Jeremiah Anderson for watercolor • 3rd – Mishel Yordy for clay • 2nd – Lilah Bunch for oil pastel and glitter • Honorable Mention – Cooper Fox for • 3rd – Gracelynn Wicker for watercolor mixed media • Honorable Mention – Finley Becker for • Judge’s Choice – Charlotte Gallagher for mixed media crayon • Judge’s Choice – Riveya Galindo for Ninth grade through 12th grade: marker • 1st – Nivea Noon for colored pencil Third grade through fifth grade: • 2nd – Abbie Ludwig for watercolor • 1st – Emersyn Smice for chalk • 3rd – Claire Freeman for colored pencil • 2nd – Grey O’Rourke for oil pastel and • Honorable Mention – Cristen Morgan watercolor for computer generated • 3rd – London Laurent for chalk • Judge’s Choice – Daeshia Palmer for • Honorable Mention – Mitzy Peralta for oil colored pencil pastels • Best of Show – Nivea Noon for ceramic
Please visit https://aandtauctionservices.hibid.com/ for full sale viewing beginning 10/15/2025. Pictures will be uploaded prior to that date as they are available. Personal Property: This is an auto repair shop liquidation–tools of all kinds, including power and hand tools, wrenches, screwdrivers, filter wrenches, etc. including Craftsman, Tool Shop, Snap-On, and more; Various extra auto parts– filters, bulbs, fuses, and more; parts washing bin; tire balancing machine; floor jacks; jack stands; upright presses; large air compressor; tool carts; large hydraulic auto lift; and much, much more. Everything must go! Item Viewing: Items will be available for online viewing @ 8am on 10/15/2025. If you wish for more information on an item or an appointment to view an item, please contact A & T Auction Services directly. Pick-Up: pick-up for items will be held on Tuesday, October 21st from 4:30-7:00pm at the sale site listed above. Terms & Conditions: This is an absolute sale. There will be a 10% Buyer’s Premium added to all items sold. Items can be purchased with cash, GOOD check, or credit card. There will be a 3.5% fee added to any credit card transaction. Follow A & T Auction Services on Facebook for more information! Travis Cunningham, Auctioneer IL Lic. # 441.002600 A & T Auction Services, LLC atauctionservices@gmail.com 815-297-4595
2025 WINTER STORAGE at the OGLE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS The Ogle County Fair Storage Day is approaching. All returning customers from 2024 may bring your cars, boats, campers, trailers, etc. on Saturday November 1, 9 – 12:00. New customers can place units in storage on Saturday November 8, 2024, 9 – 12:00 at the Fairgrounds. There are no reserved spots. Information needed when checking in: Owners Name, address, phone number, and email. The storage item’s brand, color, height, length (including trailer & hitch), license plate number, and its approximate value. We are offering three (3) options for storage space. The enclosed exhibit building, barns with open sides, and outside with no cover (not directly under any trees). Maximum height is 12 feet for all units (including anything on top of the unit, i.e. AC units). The cost is based solely on the length of your unit and the type of building you wish to place your unit. If you store more than one item, there is a $20 discount on each additional unit. Contracts can be found on the website: www.oglecountyfair.com.
Location
Up to 18’
18.1’ - 32’
32.1’ and up
Enclosed Exhibit Building
$ 215.00
$ 250.00
$ 300.00
Open Sided Barn
$ 150.00
$ 175.00
$ 200.00
Outside (not covered)
$ 120.00
$ 140.00
$ 160.00
Units placed into storage first are the last to be removed (i.e., Last In must be First Out). Spring checkout day is Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 9:00 am. QUESTIONS: Call the fair office at 1-815-732-6962.
SM-ST2277341
OCL
Online Personal Property Auction Hometown Auto Repair, LLC Liquidation 89C S. Daysville Road, Oregon, IL 61061 Thursday, October 16th 8AM to Sunday, October 19th 5PM This is an Online Auction.
Provided By Grand Detour Arts Festival
Ryan Jandrey, the Charles Kested Best of Show winner, is pictured with Judge Danielle Koenig at the 2025 Grand Detour Arts Festival in Grand Detour.
OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK
19
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
20
Creston Village Board OKs $268K sewer payment The project consisted of 36-inch storm sewer pipe being put in to replace broken drain tile. The work was suggested due to issues with stormwater overflow. The preliminary storm sewer project work involved securing easements from nearby property owners. About 800 feet of storm sewer pipe was put in.
Planned farmland officially acquired from landfill By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com The Creston Village Board of Trustees unanimously approved a $268,168 payment Tuesday, Oct. 7, to Martin & Company Excavating for a recent storm sewer project that was completed in the village. Back in June, the board awarded a $290,734.80 bid to Martin & Company Excavating to do the work to improve drainage in Creston. Village Engineer Kevin Bunge said the final payment to
Creston Village President Tom Byro
Creston Village Board Trustee Reid Elliot
Farm
for 3.5 years and stems from an agreement that Creston, the Rochelle Landfill and City of Rochelle came to back in 2021 that will result in closing the Rochelle Landfill by or on Dec. 31, 2040. The delay was due to Illinois Environmental Protection Agency approval. The land will be changed as part of the deal, including the removal and addition of roads for clearer farming, removal of trees and fencing, and the potential removal of berm. The landfill has been giving the village farm lease revenue during the negotiations. Creston has additional farmland in the area that it leases out. Tess said Tuesday that work is ongoing on some berm, tree and fence
the contractor was less than the bid, meaning the project went well. “They did a nice job of cleaning up all the way through it,” Village Trustee Mike Kerns said. “They put everyone’s yards back together. Grass is coming up. It looks nice.”
Village Attorney Dave Tess provided an update to the board on an agreement it approved last month with the Rochelle Landfill that saw the village officially acquire 111.3 acres of land that will be used as farm property that will be leased out. Tess said the land is now owned by the village. The land deal was negotiated
most. Jimbo was truly dedicated to his church. He helped with the construction of its current Born: April 5, 1964 in Portsmouth, VA location and maintained the service of many Died: October 3, 2025 in Dixon, IL things within the church. Jimbo felt a sense of pride in serving his church by teaching Sunday OREGON, IL ~ James School, being a trustee for several years, and “Jimbo” F. Callaway, especially mowing the lawn. He loved to help age 61, died suddenly people, whether it was through his job or just at St. Katherine “KSB” Hospital in Dixon, IL, on in passing. Jimbo was a friend to all. The most Friday, October 3, 2025. important thing in his life was his family. He married the love of his life, Joyce Jones, on He was born on April 5, 1964 in Portsmouth, October 30, 1982 at the Oregon Church of God, in Oregon, IL. They spent the next 43 years VA, the son of John Callaway Sr. & Anna (Alexander) Keys. Jimbo always enjoyed being together building their family. Jimbo loved his active throughout his life. His interests includ- sons more than they will ever know and he ed trap shooting, deer hunting and fishing. He was proud to be their dad. The family is forever grateful to the staff at enjoyed riding his motorcycle and golfing the Davita Dialysis in Dixon. They took wonderful
care of him and were more like friends than caregivers. We are also very thankful for all of the years of care and support from Dr. Gregory Reckamp and his staff. Jimbo is preceded in death by his beloved daughter Sarah, father John Callaway Sr, sister Jennifer Callaway, maternal-grandparents Jim & Vera Cross, paternal grandparents and his father & mother-in-law, Huck & Helen Jones. He is survived, and will be missed everyday, by his loving wife Joyce of Oregon, IL; sons Tim (Mandi) Callaway of Mt. Morris, IL; Eric (Brekk) Callaway of Mt. Morris, IL; grandchildren Kaedance, Kaylen, Landin, Nevaeh, and Lucette; mom and dad Anna and Phil Keys of Sterling, IL; sister-in-law Marianne Jones of Dixon, IL; brother-in-law Jim (Krista) Jones of Dixon, IL; brother John Callaway Jr of Dixon, IL;
several nieces and nephews; and many, many dear and special friends. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, between the hours of 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM, at the Oregon Church of God on Oregon Trail Rd, Oregon, IL. Funeral services are scheduled for the following day, Thursday, October 9, 2025 at the church beginning at 10:30 AM with Pastor Michael Hoffman presiding. Jimbo always enjoyed being comfortable in his sleeveless t-shirts and jean shorts so please dress casually in his honor. Jimbo will then be laid to rest with his daughter, Sarah, at Riverview Cemetery of Oregon, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be established in his name as decided by the family. To leave an online condolence please visit, www. farrellhollandgale.com.
MICHAEL L. GYORKOS
enjoyed trying new hobbies. He found joy in the art of woodworking, tinkering, gardening, bird watching, and building all sorts of birdhouses. Mike was a true history buff; he enjoyed discovering his genealogical heritage and thoroughly enjoyed participating in Civil War reenactments. Mike believed in serving his community and enjoyed being an alderman on the Byron City Council for many years. He leaves behind a legacy of passion and dedication that touched the lives of many. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Fran (Ron) Heisler and Christopher Gyorkos. He is survived and missed by his wife, Marsha of Byron; children, Kimberly Gyorkos of Byron and Jeffrey (Kristen Acton) Gyorkos of Rockford; two grandchildren; siblings, Kay (Jerry) Kolls, Becky (Rich) Cashman, Patty Gyorkos
Marinelli, Frank (Margaret) Gyorkos, and Anne (Pete) Prehn; sister-in-law, Patti Gyorkos; brother-in-law, Greg (Sandy) Beitel and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends. Visitation will be held on October 15th, 2025 from 5pm to 7pm at Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home, 506 W. Merchant St, Byron, IL. A funeral service will be held on October 16th, 2025 at 11am at The United Church of Byron, 701 W 2nd St, Byron, IL with Pastor Tyler Spellious officiating. Memorials are established in his name. To leave an online condolence please visit www.farrellhollandgale.com
See Creston on page 21
OBITUARIES JAMES “JIMBO” F. CALLAWAY
Born: June 2, 1955 in Springfield, IL Died: October 3, 2025 in Milwaukee, WI Michael L. Gyorkos, age 74, departed from this world on October 3, 2025. He was born on June 2, 1951 to Frank and Mary “Mercedes” (Casteel) Gyorkos in Springfield, IL. He graduated from Rockford West High School in 1969 and earned his bachelor’s degree from Northern Illinois University. Mike married the love of his life, Marsha Beitel, on May 20, 1978. Their lives were blessed with the birth of their two
beautiful children, and they built a wonderful life full of love over the next 47 years. Mike had a fulfilling career as a manufacturing engineer through his work at Rockwell International in Rockford beginning in 1976, then transferring to Cedar Rapids Iowa, in 1982. He worked for the next 30 years at Hamilton Sundstrand in Rockford, retiring in 2014. He especially enjoyed his travels to Singapore during his tenure at Sundstrand and the friendships he cultivated there. After retirement he spent his extra time working with the grounds crew at Prairie View Golf Course, where he took pride in maintaining the beauty of the greens. He was a man with a strong faith in God and was a member of the United Church of Byron. Mike was a man of many interests and
Knight named winner of Ogle County Fair raffle
Presidents Becky Waltrip (2013-2021), Jim Mays (2005-2013), Jim Leather (1984-2005) and Current President Marty Typer (2021-present). – Shaw Local News Network
• CRESTON
and Depot Street. The village aims to have a sidewalk plan in place by the spring.
Continued from page 20 removal. The land will be leveled out for farming. The acquisition of the land saw no purchase amount for the village, but the lengthy negotiation and agreement work will cost the village $24,562 in attorney’s fees.
Sidewalks
• SON Continued from page 14
Photo provided by Ogle County Fair
violence directed toward Nathaniel. Redington removed Safranek’s scheduled jury trial date over the objection of Isley, and no court dates were set, pending the appeal process. The appellate court issued its opinion July 25 and its mandate Sept. 4. Nathaniel was a first-grade student at Oregon Elementary School. He was found unresponsive and not breathing at 2:30 a.m. Feb. 17, 2021, in his bed at home in the 400 block of South 10th Street. He was pronounced dead later that day at KSB Hospital in Dixon. According to records obtained by
The board voted unanimously to give Village President Tom Byro the authority to hire an electrician for a cost not to exceed $15,000 for upcoming work on the installation of a mixer in Creston’s water tower. The mixer installation project was put into motion following rust issues that have been seen in Creston’s water system. The village has found difficulty hiring an electrician for the project and currently has bids of $14,550 and $11,725 with another unknown bid on the way. The work is planned to take place Nov. 4.
Christmas
The board unanimously approved a donation of $1,000 to the Creston-Dement Public Library to help purchase Christmas presents for children at the library’s Christmas in Creston event in December. Last year, the library gave out 106 presents at the event.
Halloween
The board resolved to have Halloween trick or treating take place in Creston from 5-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31. The City of Rochelle’s trick or treating will take place the same day and time. Shaw Local News Network in a Freedom of Information Act request, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services visited the house about a dozen times over two years, following up on five reports of suspected abuse and neglect. Each time, DCFS closed the case after finding no indications of parental wrongdoing. Nathaniel was 4 when the allegations first surfaced. Redington ruled in November 2022 that Safranek was fit to stand trial after reviewing a mental health evaluation requested by the defense. Redington agreed with attorneys on June 28, 2024, to exclude Safranek’s mental health records from being entered at the trial.
OCL
Board members expressed a desire Tuesday to replace sidewalks in Creston and establish a regimented sidewalk improvement program each year. The board will look at making a master sidewalk improvement plan and budgeting a certain amount for replacement each year. Village Trustee Mark Hibshman estimated about three quarters of Creston is in need of sidewalk replacement. Village Trustee Curt Ward said any sidewalk that hasn’t been replaced in the village since its installation will need replacing, due to meeting ADA requirements. The board is currently planning a sidewalk replacement project at Village Hall and on South Grove Street and East South Street. Other sidewalk areas of priority mentioned by the board Tuesday included Main Street, Prairie Street,
Tower
OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
Current, former village presidents ride in parade
The 2025 Stillman Valley Fall Festival 2025 Parade was held Sept. 28, 2025. Riding in the parade were Former Village
This year the Ogle County Fair held its first 50/50 raffle. Walker Knight of Ashton was the winner of $319. The mural behind Walker was painted this year by Beth Hall of Oregon. She donated her time and materials to make the fair office look beautiful.
21
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
22
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
AUTO & TIRE
OCL
815-946-3033
HANDYMAN
MATTRESS
Storage - Lawncare - Plowing - Painting - Handyman - Oil Changes - Brakes
815-758-4320
Jason Conderman • Sr. Store Manager
2395 Sycamore Rd • DeKalb, IL • 60115 mattressfirm.com
Promote Your Local Business! Contact Chris Grimm for more details. 815-632-2504.
SM-ST2275673
23
OGLE COUNTY PROPERTY TRANSFERS FOR SEPT. 29-OCT. 3 • Kenneth William Lapp and Timothy Wayne Lapp to Kassandra M Rosecke, 712 N Hampton Dr, Byron, $270,000. • Michael Munns and Kimberley Munns to Keith Munns and Georgia Munns, 2995 N Silver Ridge Dr, Oregon, $306,500. • Thomas W Johnson and Debra J Johnson to Alan Warneke and Susan Schafer, 906a Carlisle, Rochelle, $217,500. • David N Hueramo and Jessica Hueramo to Brittany Guillotte and Guillotte Deven, 1442 Rock Island, Davis Junction, $320,000. • William A Freeman and Tanya S Freeman to James Harvey Brusky and Barbra Brusky, 109 Amber Dr, Oregon, $238,000. • Nancy D Alderks and Becky J Borchers to Straight Roes Farm Llc, 18427 E Mcneal Rd, Monroe Center, $0. • Joseph R Casurella to Amber L Klouse and Kyle K Putzstuck, one parcel in Flagg Township: 24-07-300-010, $40,000. • Valerie J Bunting to Aiden B Ahmer and Ann M Hendrickson, 213 Main St, Leaf River, $77,500. • Bonnie J Moore to Rosa P Umana, 1133 N 7th St, Unit 704, Rochelle, $125,000. • Charles D Vardman and Rhonda L Vardman to Steven D Katzman and
Deborah K Katzman, 124 E Depot St, Creston, $287,000. • Pineapple Development Llc to Headon & Sons Inc, 114 W. North St., Creston; 110 W. North St., Creston; 103 S Main St., Creston; and 103 S Main St, Creston, $300,000. • Janet R Kramer, Deceased By Heirs, and the estate of Janet R Kramer to Maria Lopez and Alfredo Lopez, 332 N Woolf CT, Rochelle, $110,000. • Brian Cunningham and Janet Cunningham to Michael David Lefevre, 205 S Botanic Ave, Mt. Morris, $68,000. • Patrick K Olson to Justin Holder and Angela Holder, 625 N. 12th St., Rochelle, $160,000. • Christie A Brenz and Christie A Armstrong to Jackson Britnell, 211 E 5th St, Byron, $200,900. • Rdsd Llc to Guiseppe Alfano, 204 E Washington St, Oregon, $30,000. • David C Knie, trustee, Charles J Knie Tr and Eileen Y Knie Tr to Christine Y Shenefelt, 606 E Wayne St, Polo, $0. • David C Knie, trustee, Charles J Knie Tr and Eileen Y Knie Tr to Dms Investment Group Llc, 708 S Division Ave, Polo, and 702 S Division Ave, Polo, $0. • Nicholas P Yianibas and Carlen M Yianibas to Jordan K Kilmer, 1196 W 2nd St,
Byron, $290,000. • Janet A Stukenberg to Brayden A Schlaf, Kristen A Schlaf, and Tonya Poppen, 1134 W 2nd St, Byron, $207,900. • Bruce A Mueller and Sophia A Mueller to Catherine Clarke and Margaret Regnier, 318 Slippery Rock Dr, Dixon, $2,750. • David W Mincemoyer, David Mincemoyer, Jodi L Mincemoyer and Jodi Mincemoyer, to Maynard L Stivers and Lorene K Stivers, 553 Countryside Dr, Stillman Valley, and 543 Countryside Dr, Stillman Valley, $350,000. • Robert De La Rosa to Ritz Rentals Llc, 801 Adams, Oregon, $248,000. • Matthew G Mcgrail to Jeromy Jacobs, one parcel in Taylor Township: 22-07-201004, $60,000. • Erik Peterson to Tyler Davis and Sarah Davis, 6913 W Wagner Rd, German Valley, $119,900.
Quit claim deeds
• Ralph Beckham to Ralph Beckham and Sandra Beckman, 1035 Turkington Ter, Rochelle, $0.
Trustees deeds
• Edith M Davis, trustee, James C Davis Tr and Edith M Davis Tr to Benjamin Miller
and Rebecca Miller, two parcels in Leaf River Township and 4256 W Egan Rd, Leaf River, $700,000. • Jeffrey L Frazier, trustee, Michele M Frazier, trustee, Frazier Jam Tr and Jam Frazier Tr to Kevin W Connors, trustee, Kathleen M Connors, trustee, and Connors Family Tr, 712 N Kari CT, Byron, $340,000. • Joshua W Franks, trustee, and Joshua W Franks Rev Tr to Daniel Collins, 2030 Southfield Ln, Byron $279,900.
Deeds of trust
• Steven R Meiners, trustee, John L Meiners, trustee, and Meiners Family Tr to Austin D Schriner and Marti K Schriner, one parcel in Eagle Point Township: 13-12-200-003, $1,482,000.
Trustees deeds
• Edward J Wedell, trustee, and James L & Janet H Wedell Dec Tr to Seger Randal Larson and Samantha Christine Larson, 309 Saddlewood Cir, Dixon, $327,500. • Baruch M Schur, trustee, and Baruch Schur Rev Tr to Jeffrey Sondgeroth and Korie Sondgeroth, 714 Kaskaskia Dr, Dixon, and 712 N Kaskaskia Dr, Dixon, $475,000.
OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
Warranty deeds
OCL
COMPLETE SERVICE COMPLETE SEPTIC SEPTIC SERVICE
PAINTING PAINTING
HAIR CARE WALLPAPER FREE ESTIMATES
PAINTING
K&J
STAINING HANDYMAN SERVICES
DECORATING, INC.
Specializing in painting or staining kitchen cabinets or woodwork. Insured
Ken
SM-ST2278277
TREE TREE SERVICE SERVICE
Over 40 Years Experience Cell (815) 353-5754 NO JOB TOO SMALL! Stillman Valley, IL
WORD FIND
This is a theme puzzle with the subject stated below. Find the listed words in the grid. (They may run in any direction b always in a straight line. Some letters are used more than once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have com pleted the puzzle, there will be 19 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.
WORD FIND
24 OGLE COUNTY LIFE
Getting hitched
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
© 2025 Australian Word Games Dist. by Creators Syndicate Inc.
Solution: 19 Letters
OCL
Acceptance Advice Alcohol Amaze Amity Balloons Beach Blue Boutonniere Bride Cake
China Civil Compliments Crystal Dear Delight Emerald Express Eyes Fond Gifts
Groom Happy History Kiss Knee Like Love Park Photography Poem Relatives
Shoes Sign Speeches Spouse Surprise Tables Toasts Veil Wife
Solution: Walking down the aisle
Speed Bump
Creators Syndicate 737 3rd Street • Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 310-337-7003 • info@creators.com
Date: 10/9/25
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
25
NEWSDAY CROSSWORD
OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
Byron Women’s Club to host bingo fundraiser Oct. 25
OCL
The Byron Women’s Club invites you to join in the fun on Saturday, Oct. 25, for Fiesta Nachos & Bingo. This casual fundraiser is a fun way to support the club’s mission of community service. Enjoy refreshments, prizes, a 50/50 drawing, raffle baskets and Bingo. This event is hosted at Cornerstone Family Church 205 N. Peru St., Byron, from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25. Tickets are $25 per person. Email bonnie. hodina@gmail.com to preorder. Tickets are also available for purchase at the Byron Museum during regular hours, Wednesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and at the door. Proceeds benefit these local charities: Serenity Hospice & Home, Rock House Kids, Rock River Center, Shining Star, Village of Progress, Veterans Honor Flight, HOPE, Operation Santa, Pegasus Special Riders, Rockford Rescue Mission, and Habitat for Humanity, and awards an annual $1,000 Women’s Empowerment Scholarship to a Byron High School senior. Byron Women’s Club donates to 13 local charities and supports student empowerment scholarships each year. The General Federation of Women’s Clubs is an international women’s organization dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service.
Photo provided by Oregon Lions Club
The Oregon Lions Club annual drawdown event was Sept. 11. Grand prize winner Chuck Shaffner (left) took home $1,000 cash. Jan Conkrite (right) won $100 cash.
Oregon Lions hold drawdown event
The Oregon Lions Club annual drawdown event took place Sept. 11. Grand prize winner Chuck Shaffner took home $1,000 cash. Jan Conkrite won $100 cash. The emcee for the evening was Lion James Brown. Joe Kryszak also won $100 in cash and Tony Peterson took home the $200 cash prize. There were several $50 cash prize winners, as well. Besides cash, there were many door prizes awarded, with well over $4,000 in prizes total. Shaw Local News Network
PUZZLE ANSWERS
Play now by going to ShawLocal.com/games or by scanning the code at the right. eNewspaper readers, click the link above to play now.
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
26
CLASSIFIED To place an ad
833-584-NEWS (6397)
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
Part-Time CDL Class A Drivers Needed
LIGHT DUTY MAINTENANCE PERSON
for Fall Harvest Polo Area. Manual Transmission. Flexible Hours. Call 815-590-5265
EMPLOYMENT
CLOTHES DRYER Samsung Electric Dryer. Multiple features, very good condition. $150 Cal 815-441-4828
wanted for 35-40 hours per week in Dixon, Durand & Ohio, IL locations. Seeking a reliable individual with basic handyman skills to perform light maintenance task at three properties. This includes minor repairs, basic plumbing, baseboard heaters, thermostats and general upkeep. Must be detail-oriented, physically capable and able to work independently. Prior maintenance experience preferred. Must have own tools, valid driver's license and reliable transportation. Call 815-440-2769 for an interview or email: dburke@baywestres.com
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
APPLIANCES
EMPLOYMENT
Byron School District #226 Job Postings Full-time Positions: Maintenance Worker Elementary Library Aide / Paraprofessional Apply online at:
www.byron226.org Click the Menu tab, then click the Employment Opportunities tab in the “About Us” section
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
Farm Help Wanted $25 / hour
10-15 hours per week Rochelle area
Some lifting required. Flexible hours.
Call 815-751-9076 Do not text
classified@shawlocal.com
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
WIXN AM/FM MORNING SHOW HOST Dixon Join the Voice of the Sauk Valley!
Are you a dynamic, engaging personality with a passion for radio and a deep connection to your community?
OREGON GARAGE SALES
OREGON GARAGE SALES
OREGON - 803 Jackson Friday 10/17 & Saturday 10/18 8am to 4pm
Top of the line baby stroller and rocking bassinet, baby pull behind bike trailer, 2 Smith Brothers overstuffed wing back chairs, electric fireplace, antique curved glass oak curio cabinet, oak highboy dresser, brand new never used air gun with scope new $1200, asking $800, snow blower, grass seeder, BB gun, Coach purses, tons of glassware, stationary bike, waffle maker, rice cooker, DVDs, PS4 video games, large bird cage, bathroom faucets & lights, queen bed & boxspring. Tons more! No clothes or shoes.
Shaw Local Radio in Dixon, IL is looking for a full-time Morning Show Host to lead the day on WIXN AM/FM. What You'll Do: Host a compelling, local-focused morning show that informs, entertains, and connects with listeners across the Sauk Valley. Deliver news, weather, interviews & community updates with energy & authenticity. Engage with listeners on-air, online, and in person - become a trusted local voice. Collaborate with our production team to create high-quality audio content & promos. Represent WIXN at community events, remotes, and station promotions. What We're Looking For: Strong on-air presence and excellent communication skills. Experience in radio broadcasting, audio production, and Adobe Audition preferred. Ability to write, voice, and produce engaging segments and commercials. Passion for local news, events, and building community relationships. Comfortable with social media and digital platforms to extend your reach. Why Join Us: At Shaw Local Radio, we believe in the power of local voices. You'll be part of a team that values creativity, community, and connection. If you're ready to wake up the Sauk Valley with energy and purpose, we want to hear from you! Apply today with your resume, demo reel & short note about why you love local radio to:
Online: www.shawmedia.com/careers or mail it to us at: Shaw Media - Human Resources; c/o WIXN Morning Host; PO Box 250; Crystal Lake, IL 60039 Shaw Media is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Drug-free employer. A pre-employment background check, motor vehicle record, and drug screen are required. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply!
Ogl
FA
Tuesda
Sal
JUST GIVE US A CALL
350
Se Tract 2) 31 Tract 3) 86 Section Tract 4) 39 Section Tract 5) 19 Section Tract 6) 29 Tract 7) 10 Section Tract 8) 43
For complete li
For Informat Lenny Bryso Ph: 815-946
Jackson
rday 10/18
m
er and rocking d bike trailer, fed wing back antique curved oak highboy r used air gun asking $800, der, BB gun, glassware, e maker, video games, om faucets & boxspring. s or shoes.
AUCTIONS
AUCTIONS
FARMLAND AUCTION
AUCTIONS
LIVE ONLINE
OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS
LAND AUCTION
Ogle County, IL
Saturday, November 15, 2025
AUCTIONS
AUCTIONS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2025 AT 1:00 PMCT
Sale will be held at 11:00 AM
at the Pine Creek Christian Church Fellowship Hall, 8111 W Penn Corner Road, Polo, IL 61064 The 160 acres of farmland will be selling in 5 surveyed Parcels A,B,C,D,E. Parcels A and E are tillable grounds with Open Tenancy for 2026. Parcels C and D is timber/retired quarry ground and will be sold together. Parcel B is the nice 2 story country home on 5 acres with 2 car garage, corn crib and barn. This property is located in Sections 31 and 32 of Pine Creek Township, Ogle County, Illinois. For more information including maps, tax info, soil types, etc, plus terms and conditions, visit:
www.auctionzip/publicauctionservice.com or www.lennybrysonauctioner.com
Owner: Mary Elizabeth Love Stuff Revocable Trust #1 Lenny Bryson 815-946-4120
Public Auction Service Lyle Hopkins 815-441-1251
112.09 SURVEYED ACRES • 1 TRACT
OPEN HOUSE: SATURDAY, OCT. 4 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Physical Address: 292 N Meridian Road, Chana, IL 61015
The land is located 9 miles east of Oregon, IL or 20 miles south of Rockford, IL and is further described as being located in Section 1, T23N-R11E, Pine Rock Township, and Section 18, T41N-R1E, White Rock Township, Ogle County, Illinois. A combination of productive, tillable farmland and a country home situated in a beautiful setting. Close to excellent grain market outlets.
ESTATE OF DIANE C. WENCK ERIN CARPENTER, ADMINISTRATOR
Representing Attorney: Jack Vieley | (309) 827-8888 121 N Main St, Suite B-1, Bloomington, IL 61701 Auction Manager: Kevin Haas (309) 264-7767
Attorney for the Trust is Emily Vivian of Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger & Considine, LLC SM-ST2278569
AUCTIONS
AUCTIONS
AUCTIONS
AUCTIONS
Ogle & Winnebago County, IL
FARMLAND AUCTION Tuesday, November 18th, 2025 at 10:30 AM Sale to be held at: Prairie View Golf Club/ Pavillion 6734 German Church Road Byron, IL 61010
350 Acres +/- Selling in 7 parcels NO COMBINATIONS OPEN TENANCY FOR 2026
Section 17 Byron Township, Ogle County, IL Tract 2) 31.521 Surveyed Acres & Various Outbuildings Tract 3) 86.121 Surveyed Acres Section 8/17 Byron Township, Ogle County, IL Tract 4) 39.489 Surveyed Acres Section 26 of Byron Township, Ogle County, IL Tract 5) 19.33 Platted Acres Section 35/36 Byron East Township, Ogle County, IL Tract 6) 29.53 Platted Acres Tract 7) 102.98 Platted Acres Section 28 Winnebago Township, Winnebago County, IL Tract 8) 43.87 Platted Acres
S
Picture it
www.lennybrysonauctioneer.com
Owner, Alvin Oltmanns Trust Joe McCoy, Stillman Bank Trust Dept Attorney, Dave Smith Ph: 815-732-6124
PUBLIC NOTICE The Board of Commissioners of the Byron Forest Preserve District, Ogle County, Illinois will hold a public hearing on October 20, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. The hearing will be held at the Jarrett Prairie Center, 7993 North River Road, Byron, IlliThe nois 61010. purpose of the hearing will be to public receive comments on the proposal to sell general obligation in an bonds amount not to exceed $2,325,000 to finance the costs of (i) acquiring land developing and forest preserve lands in and for the District, and (ii) certain costs of issuance of the Bonds. Kris Baker, Secretary October 13, 2025 PUBLIC NOTICE The President and Board of Park Commissioners of the Byron Park Ogle District, County, Illinois will hold a public hearing on October 21, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. The hearing will be held at the Park District Conference Room, 500 N. Colfax Street, Byron, The purIllinois. pose of the hearing will be to receive public comments on the proposal to sell general obligation park bonds in an amount not to exceed $700,000 to finance (i) the payment of land condemned or purchased for parks, for the building, maintaining, improving and protecting of the same and the existing land and facilities of the District, (ii) debt service on the District's outstanding General Obligation Park Bonds (Alternate Revenue Source), Series 2020, that financed the payment of land condemned or purchased for parks or boulevards, for the building, maintaining, improving and protecting of the same and for the payment of the expenses incident thereto, and (iii) certain costs of issuance of the Bonds. Jeff Wilmarth, Secretary October 13, 2025
LD
For complete listing of survey, sale bill, maps, tax info, and terms & conditions, etc. visit For Information Contact: Lenny Bryson - Auctioneer Ph: 815-946-4120
SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION
LEGAL NOTICES
In Print & Online
Baileyville Storage LLC 300 N. Commercial Street Baileyville, IL 61007 262-679-1850 (Office) 262-271-8344 (Cell) Will hold a public sale to enforce a lien(s). Date of Sale Monday, October 20, 2025 Delinquent Tenants: Units 10, 11 and 12 Jeffrey Phen Oct. 6, 13, 2025
27
OCL
T VE S ALL
AUCTIONS
OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
EGON
RAGE SALES
AUCTIONS
Illinois. The purpose of the hearing will be to receive public comments on the proposal to sell general obligaLEGALpark NOTICES tion bonds in an amount not to exceed $700,000 to finance (i) the payment of land condemned or purchased for parks, for the building, maintaining, improving and protecting of the same and the existing land and facilities of the District, (ii) debt service on the District's outstanding General Obligation Park Bonds (Alternate Revenue Source), Series 2020, that financed the payment of land condemned or purchased for parks or boulefor the vards, building, maintaining, improving and protecting of the same and for the payment of the exincident penses thereto, and (iii) certain costs of isof the suance Bonds. Jeff Wilmarth, Secretary October 13, 2025
Be prepared before the next power outage.
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
28
Receive a free 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase* - valued at $535.
Call 844-377-3452 to schedule your free quote!
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Photo provided by Emily Anaya
Oregon Junior High School cross country runner Callum Groenhagen runs at the team’s recent meet in Byron. tion. Several runners continue to set personal records which shows how hard each athlete continues to work-even at the end of the season,” OJHS coach Emily Anaya said. All athletes listed have qualified for the Sectional Meet on Saturday, Oct. 11, at Fuller Forest Preserve in Winnebago, where they will race 2.05 miles.
The top three teams and top seven individuals will advance to the State Meet on Saturday, Oct. 18, in Normal. “We’re proud of all our Hawks today. Every runner gave their best, and this sets an exciting tone as we head into Sectionals and State. Go Hawks!” Nic Anaya said.
Forreston falls to longtime rival Eastland-Pearl City
Photos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
ABOVE: Forreston’s Mickey Probst (34) runs with the ball as linemen Carter Fox (75) and Collin Bismark (50) block against Eastland-Pearl City during a Friday, Oct. 3 game in Pearl City. LEFT: Forreston’s Eli Faris (12) fights his way into the end zone as Eastland-Pearl City’s Sawyer Williams (2) tries to stop him at during a game at Pearl City High School. Forreston lost 54-24.
OCL
The Oregon Junior High cross country teams competed at the Route 72 Middle School Conference Meet at Byron Forest Preserve on Oct. 7, where both the girls and boys teams claimed third place overall. The girls’ team saw Kollins Anaya claim first place and the conference championship for the second consecutive year with a 35-second lead over the runner-up. Marie Ramirez placed 16th, McKenna Moseley placed 17th, Mara Bell placed 27th, Carolina Kaskavage claimed 28th, Presley Contreras placed 34th and Oakleigh Kiesling placed 37th. “Kollins ran an exceptional race today, and our girls all showed amazing heart and determination. Every runner improved, and we are so proud of their efforts,” OJHS coach Nic Anaya said. Ramirez and Moseley finished side by side, both setting new personal records, while Bell, Kaskavage, Contreras, and Kiesling also posted personal bests, marking a day of major improvements for the entire squad. The boys’ team also earned third place, led by Graham Kaskavage and Nicanor Anaya, who placed seventh and eighth in a field of mostly eighth graders. Callum Groenhagen placed 16th, Luca Cozzi placed 18th, Wesley Rogers placed 34th and Hayden Roos placed 50th. “Our boys showed great growth and determina-
OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
Oregon Junior High cross country teams place 3rd 29
OCL
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
30 OGLE COUNTY WEEKLY SPORTS ROUNDUP
Photos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
Oregon’s Sarah Eckardt watches her drive at the 1A Oregon Girls Golf Regional on Tuesday, Sept. 30, at Silver Ridge Golf Course. Eckardt qualified for the state finals after shooting a 92 on Monday, Oct. 6, at the Rockford Lutheran Sectional.
Oregon girls golf advances in playoff tournament By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com
Tuesday, Sept. 30 Girls golf
Oregon Regional: The Hawks shot a 399 to take third at the Class 1A Oregon Regional to advance as a team to the sectional at Forest Hills Country Club in Rockford. Lutheran (338) was first and Byron (369) second. Aniyah Sarver (87) took seventh, Sarah Eckardt (95) was ninth, Toni Withers (104) was 12th, and Noelle Girton (113) was 24th for Oregon. E-P takes second at Eastland Regional: E-P (403) was second behind only Dixon (391), and River Ridge (414) took third to advance to the sectional as teams. Polo’s Elsa Monaco (95) took sixth.
Rockford Lutheran Sectional: Byron advanced to the state finals finishing second as a team behind Lutheran. Oregon’s Sarah Eckardt advanced to the state finals as an individual with a 92. Oregon finished fifth as a team.
Volleyball
Polo d. AFC 25-10, 25-11: Reese Mekeel led Polo with five kills, and Grace Miatke (two aces) had seven digs in the win. Cam Jones (two aces) added four kills and four digs for the Marcos. Brylee Laskowski also had two aces for Polo. Oregon d. North Boone 25-15, 25-23: Ashlee Mundell had 10 digs, Emma Eckerd (nine digs) had five assists, and Izzy Berg had two blocks and two kills for Oregon.
Wednesday, Oct. 1 Boys golf
Fulton takes second at Byron Hills: Riverdale (301) was the team champion at its home course as Fulton (306) took second. Eastland (324) also advanced as a team. Oregon (332) was fourth, followed by Bureau Valley (336). Fulton’s Owen Van Zuiden tied his Forreston’s Kaden Brown watches his drive on own school record with a 67 to take first Hole No. 4 at the 1A Pearl City Regional on individually. Riverdale’s Braden Janicki Wednesday, Oct. 1, at Wolf Hollow Golf Course (70) was runner-up and BV’s Wyatt in Lena. Novotny (71) was third. Also advancing to the Class 1A Cambridge Sectional at Valley View Club were Boys soccer Oregon’s Nole Campos (77) and Jackson Oregon 7, Indian Creek 2: Eduardo Gar- Messenger (82). Forreston’s Kaden Brown takes third at Wolf cia had a hat trick in the win for Oregon Hollow: Brown shot a 75 to advance from (10-8, 4-4). See Roundup on page 31
• ROUNDUP Continued from page 30 the Class 1A Pearl City Regional. Dakota (309), Rockford Christian (310) and Byron (319) were the advancing teams as Forreston shot a 324 to take fifth. Also advancing was Forreston’s Daylen Rahn (80). Kendall Erdmann shot an 83 but did not advance; Darin Greenfield shot an 86. Cambridge Sectional: Forreston’s Kaden Brown shot a 75 to advance to the state finals. Daylen Rahn shot a 90. Oregon’s Nole Campos (86) and Jackson Messenger (87) also competed.
looked more like a 6A team instead of 3A. They ended up beating Wheaton 35-28, who was No. 2 in 5A at the time. Leading up to that, they’ve only lost 29-28 to Marist (8A) and 24-21 to Nazareth, the No. 2 team in 6A. With its passing attack, they look better than Montini last year. The 3A classification is shaping up into exactly what everyone warned about after the 2024 IHSA championships – an unfair private school advantage. If there is positive, Byron has shown the wherewithal to mix it up with IC and Montini, as evidenced by thrilling semifinals wins in 2021 and 2023 and a narrow loss last year in the second round. My question to IC is this: If you are already competing at such a high level, why wouldn’t you petition up to play in a class or two for the post season? I recall a Catholic League player telling me he felt the playoffs were a step down from the regular season. I would not dispute that. Remember two years ago when Nazareth snuck into the playoffs at 4-5 and ran the table to win 5A. Other than Dixon, Byron is relegated to what the BNC has to offer and to be quite frank, the league is at its lowest ebb ever. Come post season, that lack of competition is detrimental.
It was scary news out of Rochelle with the serious head injury suffered by Dylan Manning in a football game against Morris. Manning was flown from Morris to Loyola Hospital and is improving after emergency surgery. Before the season, Hub coach Kyle Kissack mentioned that Dylan had the potential to be the best player ever to come out of Rochelle. In the same breath, he also said Dylan was as good of a human being as he is a player. Hundreds of people came to the Rochelle’s football field Saturday night to pray for Dylan’s recovery and this was no idle show of support. Through its youth Rock Ministries and adult Tres Dias movements, there is a genuine spirit of faith in that town. “We are very blessed to have such a strong Christian community,” Kissack said. “They always show up in a big way. The prayers were loud and went straight up to heaven.” Over the years, this column has been critical of fan behavior at highschool sporting events. The previous week, European golfers and their entourage at the Ryder Cup were verbally berated by Americans. It wasn’t good-natured us-vs.them nationalism, but ugly personal attacks, bordering on jingoism. Some blamed it on the location near New York City, where vulgarity is a finely honed art. Others said alcohol fueled the flame. Ironically, Europeans Rory McIlroy (Masters) and Tommy Fleetwood (Fed Ex Cup) were applauded for emotional wins earlier in the season by American audiences.
Thursday, Oct. 2
Friday, Oct. 3
Volleyball
Football
VIEWS Andy Colbert
Polo d. Oregon 25-19, 25-12: Reese
Eastland-Pearl City 54, Forreston 24: The Wildcats (4-2, 3-2) snapped Forreston’s four-game win streak with the home win. Draven Zier had 182 yards rushing and four TDs for E-PC in the win. Zier also went over 1,000 yards rushing for the season. E-PC led 30-8 heading into the fourth quarter. Forreston (4-2, 4-2) Boys soccer had 275 yards rushing in the setback. Somonauk 4, Oregon 2: Ivan Hernandez Oregon 45, North Boone 13: Jakobi Donascored both goals for Oregon in the loss. gen led the Hawks (4-2, 4-2) with 173 The Hawks fell to 10-9. yards rushing and four TDs in the road win. Oregon held the Vikings scoreless until the fourth quarter and led 28-0 at halftime. Polo 54, Orangeville 8: Polo (5-1) built a Mekeel led Polo with 10 kills and two blocks in the win. Grace Miatke had 13 digs while Cam Jones had seven kills, 10 digs and 11 assists. Emma Eckerd led Oregon with seven digs, eight assists and one ace.
That same weekend at the University of Colorado, college students used profanity to deride the BYU football team and mock their Mormon faith. It was a pathetic display from a group of foul-mouthed brats who needed to be disciplined, something sadly lacking in today’s younger generation. When I was a kid and used swear words, my mouth was washed out with soap. I didn’t care for that kind of discipline, but I eventually learned my lesson and my language was far less profane than Colorado’s. The Mountain West did supply discipline in the form of a $50,000 penalty to the school. However, there were no consequences for the offenders, as the school had to pick up the tab for their bad behavior. “Don’t indict us just based on a group of young kids that were probably intoxicated and high simultaneously. BYU, we love you, we appreciate you, and we support you,” Colorado coach Deion Sanders said. Rather than spewing hatred, Colorado could take a lesson from the way BYU treats visitors. Opposing fans are greeted with a warm welcome and friendship. Those sitting in the visitors section have even been treated to free brownies and ice cream. Besides the faith-based approach to interacting with a rival, another difference at Provo, Utah compared to New York and Colorado was absence of booze and pot. Andy Colbert is a longtime Ogle County resident with years of experience covering sports and more for multiple area publications. 46-0 halftime lead in the home win. JT Stephenson threw two TDs to Mercer Mumford, who also scored four TDs on the ground with 174 yards rushing.
Saturday, Oct. 4 Boys soccer
Oregon 4, Kewanee 1: Steven Guardado, Owen Wynn, Aiden Hammer and Noah Near all had goals in the win for the Hawks (11-9). Deryk Withers had six saves in goal for Oregon.
Girls cross country
Anya Anaya leads Oregon: Anaya ran a PR of 20:11.32 to take 14th at the Freeport Invite at Highland Community College. Madeline Rogers was 27th and Evelyn Anderson was 31st for the Hawks.
OCL
While resting up in the comfort of home for an ultra trail run on the Hennepin Canal, I took the night off from covering football and watched a few games on the NFHS streaming network. Simultaneously, I followed Byron, Forreston, Oregon and Stillman. Much was made of the Byron and Du-Pec tilt by local media, but make no mistake about it, Du-Pec, though leading 14-12 at half, is not at the level of Byron. The Tigers dominated action for much of the game and fell behind at half because of two turnovers and a long Du-Pec kickoff return. On a sidenote, I preferred Byron’s YouTube version of the game over the NFHS with Evan Burris providing local banter. The picture was also clearer, though a higher sightline would have been helpful. Missing its quarterback, a lineman and leading rusher, Oregon crushed North Boone, setting up this week’s battle for third place in the BNC with Stillman Valley. Regardless of the outcome, both teams are locks to reach the playoffs. In looking at playoff projections, Stillman is close to 2A. It wasn’t too long ago the Cardinals were in 4A, albeit as one of the smaller schools. In 2019, SV had 588 students compared to 419 now, a 28% drop. Maybe all those families moving into the new subdivisions in the 1990s and early 2000s are done having children. Also on the NFHS, I viewed part of the IC Catholic-Wheaton St. Francis football game, as IC will be Byron’s biggest impediment to a state title. IC
31 OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
The football playoffs run and prayers in Rochelle
SPORTS Polo’s JT Stephenson makes a move away from an Orangeville defender during 8-man action on Friday, Oct. 3, at Polo High School.
Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, October 13, 2025
OGLE COUNTY LIFE
32
OCL
Photo by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
POLO PEELS AWAY FROM ORANGEVILLE In 8-man competition, the Marcos take a Homecoming victory over Orangeville in Polo / 30-31