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IT’S YOUR WRITE
Critics
of
immigration enforcement need to get a civics lesson
To the editor:
After reading recent comments in the Ogle County Life I wondered if, in general, we are weak on civics and maybe weak on composition skills as well.
The author of the Love for America article stated he didn’t like politicians and the Supreme Court ignoring our Constitution and walking all over it as if they own it, yet gave no examples. Do people actually accept this type of presentation as sufficient to persuade?
The media presents the current administration in a bad light by sensational headlines. The weakness of our civics knowledge needs to be strengthened so that the headlines can be read and reason applied, not swallowed whole with no flavor.
The “walking all over it” comment may stem from the Trump firings of agency employees. One was Special Counsel of the U.S. Office of Special Counsel Hampton Dellinger. Another was the National Labor Relations Board General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo and Board Member Gwynne Wilcox. A current case is Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook. These cases stem from our Article I Congress creating departments and delegating them to the Article II Executive authority. Congress called them independent agencies. That is the problem.
Article II Section I - The executive power shall be vested in a President of the United States of America. One person. A President. The President then delegates his executive authority to whom he chooses. There is no independent agency clause or article in our Constitution. Congress can create an agency, if authorized under its Article I Section 8 enumerated powers, and can delegate its authority to the Article II Executive, but Congress cannot make them independent. That is what the chief executive is doing, exercising Constitutional authority to choose and remove who he, the executive, delegates that authority to. The president challenged Congressional overreach.
When the fired party sues in a district court, many judges issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) on the executive. On appeal these
TROs have been overturned due to failures of the inferior court judges to apply the law properly. That is not walking over the Constitution, it is exercising the proper use. Only the current President runs the executive branch.
Perhaps the “walking all over it” are the court cases where states sue the executive for exercising militia authority. States have no standing in this argument. When a state joined the republic, it recognized the superiority of the Constitution. Per Article I, Section 8, Clause 15 and 16, Congress has the power to call up the militia and delegate its authority to the Article II President under several statutes. Calling forth the militia is not reviewable by the courts because it has no authority in the matter. Article I Congress and the Art II President are the political branches of government and make policy decisions. They are subject only to the will of the people. Congress can amend this power, but not the courts. Article III Judicial is not political and serves for terms of good behavior. When the court interjects itself in these militia (National Guard) cases it usurps authority never granted and that judge becomes the un-appealable tyrant subject to no authority.
The Article II President clarifying the abused policy of anchor babies by proper application of the intent of Amendment 14 is not “walking all over it” either. Children born in the United States of foreign nationals are citizens of their parents’ country, not ours. This will be clarified in January by the Supreme Court. Sound reasoning, logic and good understanding of history will prevail.
For the first time in a long while there is an Article II President exercising executive authority like it should be, placing America and citizens first, above other countries and the reckless invasion of sovereignty taking place. Congress alone, not sanctuary states, has authority on how to deal with immigration. The illegal border crashing is not immigration, it is migration.
With a proper understanding of civics and government, good reason and judgment would side with the current Article II President. If his policy is bad, vote him out. If the law is bad, tell Congress to change it. So far, the president is headed for more success
causing one attorney to state, “Trump is 25-0 at the Supreme Court and headed to 30”. We are getting a real lesson on government right before our eyes.
John Dickson Oregon
SNAP: Part of the great food debate
To the editor:
There are currently at least 42 million Americans dependent upon SNAP to provide the necessary funds to feed themselves and their families. Children are particularly at risk, as are the elderly, and those with various disabilities. Why are there so many in need? For some, it’s because of unemployment. We are learning that many people receiving SNAP are working but not making nearly enough to provide for this basic need. A commonly-expressed concern is that the system of supplementary food assistance is being abused. We need to remove waste as well as disqualify those taking advantage of funds available.
What I find to be appalling is that food funding is being used as a political tool to force certain political results. Since when did it become acceptable for a civilized society to decide to withhold food from her citizens? When did it become necessary for us to have to turn to the courts to decide whether people might have enough funds to buy food?
Food has been used as a weapon of subjugation in many third-world countries. Historically, cities were besieged until hunger drove the citizens to surrender. Food has been used to reward those loyal and punish those opposed. Apparently, that is what we are becoming here. I find it shameful.
I applaud local efforts to feed the hungry through food pantries and congregations. But it is not enough, nor should a society-wide concern be addressed by these types of agencies alone. Where you stand on this issue, I think depends upon how you answer this question. Is being able to have the money to be able to eat to be seen as a reward for productivity or loyalty to a particular point of view or is being able to buy food a basic human requirement for being alive?
-Rev. Ronald D. Larson Mt. Morris
Holcomb and Ogle County’s Dewayne Adams, placed fifth in his division at the National Corn Husking Contest Oct. 18 in Indiana. At age 90, he was the oldest competitor at the event. Photo provided by Dewayne Adams ON THE COVER
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Ogle County man, 90, places 5th in National Corn Husking Contest
Adams: ‘I feel lucky to be able to do it at my age. I try to stay active’
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
Ogle County’s Dewayne Adams placed fifth in his division at the recent National Corn Husking Contest in Nappannee, Indiana, and, at age 90, was the oldest competitor at the event.
“I felt pretty good to get fifth place out of nine states, being as old as I am,” Adams of Holcomb said of the Oct. 18 event in which he both hand picked and husked corn.
“I think the next oldest person was around 80. I continue to do it each year because it’s become my hobby. It’s something to do and I enjoy doing it each year,” Adams said.
Before farming became mechanized, picking corn by hand and pitching ears into a horse-drawn wagon was how harvesting was done.
In the late 19th century, local contests were held to determine the best corn picker in the community.
By the 1930s, hand corn husking became the fastest-growing sport in America, drawing more than 100,000 spectators at national contests.
Adams has memories of attending the popular contests as a small child.
His brothers competed locally and his father once took the family to attend a national contest in Illinois.
Decades later, the Holcomb man is competing, and placing, in the contest.
The National Cornhusking Association sponsors a contest in the fall to determine who is the best.
There are 12 classes that huskers can participate in. Nine states are members of the National Cornhusking Association: Iowa, Indiana, Ohio, Minnesota, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, South Dakota and Nebraska.
Adams qualified for the national contest by finishing in the top two in the state. He’s been participating in contests since 2017.
“Wagons are pulled just ahead of
you with tractors,” Adams said. “You draw a number to decide the land you pick in. They pick rain, shine or snow.
“When you pick, you can’t miss an ear on the stalk or miss the wagon, or you get a deduction. You’re allowed to have 2% of the husk still be on the ear,”
Adams said.
Adams farmed for 18 years in the area before working as a crop adjuster for another 18 years. He’s now retired.
He got into hand corn husking competitions through a friend that took part in them. He’s done it every year since.
“I’ve done a lot in my lifetime,”
Adams said. “I feel lucky to be able to do it at my age. I try to stay active. I try to do something every day. I felt pretty good about getting fifth and I got third last year at nationals in Iowa.”
Adams plans to enter the contest again next year at age 91.
Adams practices the craft at home and did some physical therapy for a few weeks before the event this year to get his arms and legs loosened up.
“I like going to state,” he said. “I think they’ll keep it going. I think they have enough active members that want to keep it going. You meet a lot of different people. It’s fun to do.”
Photos provided by Dewayne Adams Ogle County’s Dewayne Adams placed fifth in his division at the National Corn Husking Contest Oct. 18, in Nappannee, Indiana. At age 90, he was the oldest competitor at the event.
Dewayne Adams qualified for the national contest by finishing in the top two in the state. He’s been participating in corn husking contests since 2017.
Northern Illinois’ water system sold
Aqua America provides water in Ogle, DeKalb, DuPage, Kane, Kankakee, Lake, McHenry, Will counties, among others
By LEE PROVOST lprovost@shawmedia.com
Where your water comes from isn’t changing.
However, the company that will manage, operate and supply area customers soon will change if all goes as planned.
The merger of American Water Works and Essential Utilities Inc., in which Aqua America operates, is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of 2027.
American Water Works, a Camden, New Jersey-based company, is heading the merger and will operate under the name American Water and will have an enterprise value of $63 billion.
Essential Utilities is based in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, where it operates as Aqua America and Peoples Natural Gas. When the merger is completed, the company will call Camden home.
The deal must clear public utility commissions in at least seven states, including Illinois, as well as shareholder approvals and federal antitrust clearances, according to published reports.
American Water is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S.
With a history dating to 1886, the company provides drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and 18 military installations.
In addition to Illinois, American Water serves customers in Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Hawaii, Georgia and California.
The company has a workforce of about 6,700.
Essential Utilities served about 5.5 million customers in nine states, including Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New Jersey, Texas and Pennsylvania.
Asked how long Aqua Illinois leader-
ship was involved in the merger discussions, spokesman Patrick Wenger said that detail will be made available when the companies file their proxy materials in the coming weeks.
“It’s important to note that operations will continue normally until the transaction closes,” Wenger said regarding a question about the fate of the South Schuyler Avenue office in Kankakee.
The Kankakee office has a workforce of about 40.
Wenger said the Aqua Illinois name will continue to be used until the merger’s closing.
Aqua Illinois replaced Consumers
Illinois as the drinking water source in Kankakee County in March 2004.
Essential Utilities said there would
be no change in customer rates.
The company “will be better able to maintain an average customer water bill that is affordable, supporting the economic prosperity of the more than 2,000 communities in which the combined company will operate,” Essential Utilities officials said.
Aqua Illinois serves about 280,000 people across 14 counties in Illinois. These counties include Kankakee, Will, DuPage, DeKalb, Kane, Lake, Winnebago, McHenry, Vermillion, Ogle, Knox, Cook, Champaign and Boone.
In Illinois, American Water provides water and/or wastewater services to 1.3 million residents.
Photos by Tiffany Blanchette
The Aqua Illinois office in Kankakee is shown on Oct. 29. Aqua America, the company which owns area water supplier Aqua Illinois, has been sold and is expected to begin operating under the name American Water in 2027 following the merger of American Water Works and Essential Utilities Inc., in which Aqua America operates.
The Aqua Illinois office on South Schuyler Avenue is shown on Oct. 29.
Steward man identified as victim of Monday farm equipment and field fire in Lee County
Lee County Coroner’s Office said autopsy took place Wednesday
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
A Steward man has been identified as the victim of a farm equipment and field fire Monday in rural Steward and Lee County.
The Rochelle Fire Department was called at 3:29 p.m. Monday to Reynolds Road, about a mile west of Steward Road, for a field fire with a combine, tractor and grain cart involved.
The report said there was a fatality, and the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal and Lee County Coroner’s Office were called to the scene to investigate.
The victim was identified Wednesday as Henry Knetsch, 63, of Steward, Lee County Deputy Coroner and Secretary Lori Miller said. An autopsy took place Wednesday, and the cause of death has not yet been released.
A combine, tractor, grain cart and utility vehicle sustained fire damage in the incident and were total losses. About 15 acres of farmland burned as well, some with standing crops and some without. No other individuals or firefighters were injured in the incident.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, but Rochelle Fire Capt. Zach Prewett said Monday that it is suspected to be due to equipment failure.
Fire Chief Dave Sawlsville said Monday night that Knetsch was the only farmer at the scene. The fire was called in by a passerby. Monday saw an increased
risk of field fires due to dryness and wind, Sawlsville said.
Sawlsville said fire officials believe the fire started in one of the pieces of equipment and spread to the field and other pieces of equipment. Knetsch was found inside the cab of the combine, and there was no indication of foul play, the fire chief said.
“This goes to show why farming is one of the most dangerous occupations,” Sawlsville said Monday.
Responding agencies included the Rochelle Fire Department; the Ogle-Lee Fire Protection District stations of Hillcrest, Flagg Center, Steward and Creston; the Lee Fire Protection District; the Paw Paw Fire Department; the Lee County Sheriff’s Office; and the Lee County Coroner’s Office.
Jeff Helfrich
Rochelle firefighters were called at 3:29 p.m. Nov. 3, to Reynolds Road, about a mile west of Steward Road, for a field fire with a combine, tractor and grain cart involved.
Ogle County 4-H Achievement Day winners named
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Ogle County 4-Hers were recognized for excellence in 4-H project work at the recent county 4-H Achievement Celebration. Held Oct. 19 at the Pinecrest Grove Theatre, the program featured the presentation of numerous awards, including the “County Project Honor Award.”
An unlimited number of awards are given to all 4-Hers who obtain a score of 30 or greater on the County Project Honor Award Application (20 or greater for the 8-11 year olds). 4-Hers may only be recognized in one project area annually. The award consists of a plaque and silver/gold discs. (* indicates first-time winner) This year’s winners were as follows:
Hammond - Weather. *Misha JimenezVisual Arts. Annaliese Koziol - Visual Arts. Nicolette Koziol - Entomology. Eli Lotz - Woodworking. *Gianni RacanelliFood & Nutrition. *Kinsley Ryia - Visual Arts. *Quintin Walton - Beef. *Emma Zimmerman - Clothing & Textiles. Ogle County 4-H’ers between the ages of five and seven years old are known as Cloverbuds. Cloverbuds who obtain a score of 40 or above on the Cloverbud County Project Honor Award Application are recipients of the Cloverbud Project Honor Award. This year’s Cloverbud winners were as follows: Camila Bonne, Hannah Braffett, Bailey Clark, Brayden Deuth, Ellis Deuth, William Dorwaldt, Elliott Eckerstrom, Rowen Eckerstrom, Enoch Groenhagen, Brooklyn Harbaugh, Paisley Harbaugh, Kaiser Hauch, Cora Hosseini, Layla Hosseini, Macklin Hubbard, Emilia Janoski, Aniella Lombardozzi, William Marks, Julia Newkirk, Emma Rasmussen, Millie Rasmussen, June Robertson, Natalya Ruthe, Will Safranek, Alice Shick, Finnegan Slattery, Allan Smith, and Luna Wagner. For more on 4-H, contact the Ogle County Extension staff at 815-732-2191.
Ogle County candidates had until 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 3, to turn in their nomination papers as they seek candidacy for the March 17 primary election.
On that day, voters can choose a Democratic or Republican ballot to pick who appears on the ballot in November 2026.
All voters, partisan or not, can weigh in on referendum questions.
Democrats
Here’s a list of Democratic candidates who have filed their nomination papers in Ogle County:
Precinct committeeperson:
• Muriel M. Messer (D): Buffalo 3
• Meredith Townsend (D): Byron 1
• Rebecca Hines (D): Byron 2
• Beth Bull (D): Byron 4
• Denis Cheek (D): Mt. Morris 3
• Linda Pottinger (D): OregonNashua 4
• Diana L. Speck (D): OregonNashua 6
• Avril Folk (D): Pine Creek
• Nicholas Head (D): Pine Rock
• Maja Shoemaker (D): Rockvale 1
Republicans
Here’s a list of Republican candidates who have filed their nomination papers in Ogle County: County clerk:
• Rebecca (Becky) Duke (R) County treasurer:
• Tiffany O’Brien (R) Sheriff:
• Brian VanVickle (R) County Board District 1:
• Zachary S. Oltmanns (R)
• Rick Fritz (R) County Board District 2:
• Patricia Nordman (R)
• Wayne Reising (R) County Board District 3:
• Joseph C. Simms (R)
• Karl Hansen (R) County Board District 4:
• David Williams (R)
• David W. Sawlsville (R) County Board District 5:
• Donald Griffin (R)
• Bruce E. Larson (R) County Board District 6:
• Jeffrey M. Billeter (R)
• Steven P. Huber (R)
County Board District 8:
• Marcia Heuer (R)
• Lyle Hopkins (R)
Precinct committeeperson:
• Karl Hansen (R): Flagg 2
• Kaleb Kennay (R): Flagg 4
• Patricia K. Goodwin (R): Flagg 5
• Mike Koolidge (R): Flagg 6
• George R. Wilhelmsen (R): Flagg 8
• Bruce E. Larson (R): Marion 2
• Martin Typer (R): Marion 3
• James Gallant (R): Maryland
• Summer Theisen (R): Mt. Morris 4
• Norman A. Beeh (R): Oregon-Nashua 4
• John A. Dickson (R): Oregon-Nashua 5
• Brian VanVickle (R): Pine Rock
• Hunter Simmons (R): Scott
• Joseph M. Wolf (R): White Rock
Important dates
Nov. 10: Last day to file objections challenging whether candidates can appear on the ballot.
Nov. 17 to 24: Filing period for candidates seeking to fill judicial vacancies.
Dec. 3: Deadline to file objections in judicial vacancy races.
Dec. 15: Deadline to file petitions for referenda to appear on the March ballot. This does not include referendum questions authorized by local governments, just ones submitted through voter-signed petitions.
Dec. 17: First day to apply for a mail-in ballot.
Dec. 22: Deadline to file objections on referendum questions.
Dec. 29: Deadline for local government boards – such as school boards and city councils – to adopt a resolution or ordinance for a binding referendum.
Jan. 8: Last day for a candidate to withdraw from the race.
Jan. 15: Last day for a candidate to file as a write-in.
Feb. 5: Early voting starts, and county clerks begin mailing ballots.
March 1: Last day to register to vote online through the Illinois State Board of Elections website. Grace period registration and voting continues through election day.
March 17: Election day for the 2026 primary. Polls close at 7 p.m. Voters can request a partisan ballot with either Democratic or Republican candidates listed or a nonpartisan ballot, which includes any referenda.
NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE FOR OREGON COMMUNITY UNIT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 220
I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy increase for Oregon Community Unit School District No. #220, Ogle County, Illinois for 2025 will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the Oregon District Office, 206 S 10th St, Oregon, IL 61061.
Any person desiring to appear at the public hearing and present testimony to the taxing district may contact Dr. PJ Caposey, Superintendent, 206 S 10th St, Oregon, 815-980-0310.
II. The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $13,794,489.
The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $14,769,020. This represents a 7.06% increase over the previous year.
III. The property taxes extended for debt services and public building commission leases for 2024 were $1,703,280.
The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt services and public building commission lease for 2025 are $1,735,000. This represents a 1.86% increase from the previous year.
IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $15,497,769.
The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $16,504,020. This represents a 6.49% increase over the previous year.
Ogle County to host electronics recycling event
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department will host a residential electronics recycling event and food drive Friday, Nov. 21.
The event will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 909 Pines Road in Oregon.
This event is for Ogle County residents only and a free permit is required in advance of the event. To obtain a free permit call 815-732-4020 or email solidwaste@ oglecountyil.gov and provide your name, address, phone number and email address by 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20.
Accepted items include all residential televisions and computer monitors, computers, computer hardware and cables, laptops, tablets, cell phones, printers, FAX machines, scanners, shredders (no tubs), copiers, video gaming equipment, DVD/VCRs, cable/satellite boxes, stereo equipment, radios, digital clocks, cameras, calculators, phone systems, holiday light strands, extension cords, rechargeable batteries, printer ink cartridges, CD/ DVDs and CFL bulbs. Microwave ovens
nominal fee.
The limit is seven large or bulky items per permit and one permit per county household per month. Business or institutional electronic materials are not accepted at these events. Business or institutional electronics are accepted by the OCSWMD via separate program. Call the number above for more information and pricing for business electronic recycling, and to make an appointment for drop off of the materials to be recycled.
Also, in conjunction with this event, the county is again this year hosting a food drive. All donations will be distributed by OCSWMD to local food pantries across Ogle County.
Items accepted include non-expired canned goods and jars of food, boxed food items, as well as household essentials such as sealed toothpaste, soap, cleaning supplies, laundry supplies, paper towels and toilet paper.
are accepted for $5 a unit. Cash and checks are accepted.
Large toner cartridges are no longer
accepted. They can be taken back to office supply stores or recycled through the business recycling program for a
For more information about this recycling event, call the OCSWMD at the number above or visit www.oglecountyil.gov or the Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department’s Facebook page.
Promote Your Local Business! Contact Chris Grimm for more details. 815-632-2504
Shaw Local file photo
A computer equipment recycling event will be held 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 21, at 909 Pines Road in Oregon. It’s for Ogle County residents only and people need to get a free permit by 4 p.m. Nov. 20, to participate.
Byron’s Huber served 33 years in National Guard
Huber saw deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, got rank of brigadier general
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
Steve Huber of Byron served in the U.S. National Guard from 1979 to 2012, including 26 years of active duty. His service included deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, and he reached the rank of brigadier general.
Huber grew up on the north side of Chicago. After college and with influence from his U.S. Army veteran father, he decided to enlist in the National Guard for a few years to better himself. He later went to officer candidate school and went on to become a platoon leader, company commander and battalion staff member. He worked in operations and logistics, in command at battalion brigade, and deputy command at the division level. He retired as a brigadier general.
Huber was deployed to Iraq from 2004 to 2005 and to Afghanistan from 2008 to 2009. In Iraq, he was embedded with a Polish division. Every U.S. National Guard unit has a sister or brother country.
“When Iraq broke out, Poland agreed to go as one of the coalition countries to join the U.S., and they asked for Illinois, so we went,” Huber said. “There were about 13 years of that rotation, and I was the second one to go with my team.
“We were just below Baghdad. That was a year. I was the assistant chief of staff. You’re just doing staff work for the division, and they were doing patrols and nation building-type stuff.”
Huber’s deployment to Afghanistan was with the 33rd Infantry Brigade, where he was in charge of 10,000 troops spread all over the country. He said serving on those deployments put his years of training to the test.
Being away from his family was difficult.
“I think it’s harder on the family than the person that goes, depending on what they’re doing,” Huber said. “When you’re over there, you’re so focused on the mission. The people back home are dwelling on you being there and the things they have to deal with at home.
“Poland asked Illinois to go. I agreed to go. I was asked to lead up the team. It’s what you train for. Most military
members look forward to that day to do something like that. That’s the mindset you’re in. You want to go and do well, and represent the country well.”
Upon enlisting into the military, Huber didn’t know he had a desire to be an officer. He’s glad he took the chance and he found gratification in leadership and doing what he’d been trained to do. He sees his deployment to Afghanistan as a culminating event in his military career after so many assignments and schools.
Huber found himself always working toward the next responsibility in the military.
“When I went active duty full time and I became an officer, I figured I could make major and retire, and maybe make lieutenant colonel and retire at 20 years and do something else,” Huber said. “And then one thing leads to another, and you see the next rank and stay a little longer. I don’t regret any of it. I’d still be doing it today if I could.”
Huber, now 71, has lived in Byron since he was in his late 30s. Since his retirement, he’s worked as a contractor for the Department of Defense, now the Department of War, as a trainer for the past 13 years.
That work allowed Huber to stay connected to the military, working with soldiers and getting them ready for deployments. He may return to that work in the future under a new con -
tract.
Huber’s time in the service gave him an appreciation and understanding for how large of a machine the military is. He recalls being deployed as a general and realizing how small the things he was dealing with were compared to the people above him.
The military saw advancements and change under different presidents during Huber’s service. He started in the post-Vietnam War era and saw funding increase, along with more training requirements and improvements in technology, equipment, logistics and weapons.
Huber’s service taught him that character is everything.
“If you lose that, you lose your ability to lead,” Huber said. “You have to be
competent and be willing to do what you’re ordering others to do. I am very glad I started as an enlisted private and knew how that felt. I saw the military from different perspectives.”
As Veterans Day approaches, Huber feels pride. He’s part of the Byron American Legion, so he spends Veterans Day each year celebrating with other veterans and speaking to younger generations in the community to help them understand what service and sacrifice mean. During his deployment to Afghanistan, Huber saw the loss of 43 service members.
“I remember every one of them,” Huber said. “Their death or loss of life wasn’t in vain. It was for something bigger. And that’s why they went. It means something.”
Photos provided by Steve Huber
Steve Huber of Byron served in the United States National Guard from 1979-2012, including 26 years of active duty.
Steve Huber’s service included deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan and reaching the rank of brigadier general.
JOSEPH “JOE” W. WILKINSON
Born: September 16, 1943 in Galena, IL
Died: November 5, 2025 in Oregon, IL
Joseph “Joe” William Wilkinson, age 82, passed away on November 5, 2025, at Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon. He was born on September 16, 1943, to Lansford and Martha (Tindell) Wilkinson in the Galena area. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps.
Joe married the love of his life, Toni Hilfiker, on November 30, 1968, and together they shared 57 years of love and laughter. He worked as a sheriff’s deputy, a real estate agent, and taught real estate classes. His favorite job was driving a school bus for area schools. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing—especially on his yearly trips to Canada—and taking road trips with Toni. He was an avid high school sports fan and a founding member of Ogle County Pheasants Forever in 1988. Joe was a social person who never knew a stranger. More than anything,
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
DWP Custom Cabinetry of Forreston receives two awards from Cabinet Makers Association
DWP Custom Cabinetry has received top honors from the Cabinet Makers Association.
The company earned “Best Frameless Kitchen over $50,000” and “Best Bar under $25,000” at the organization’s recent national awards program in Detroit.
The award-winning project blends the clean lines and simplicity of modern design with the warmth and elegance of traditional touches, creating a timeless, functional and visually stunning space.
This recognition celebrates not only the company’s craftsmanship but also its commitment to excellence in design and execution, according to a news release.
“We are incredibly honored to be recognized by our peers in the industry,” said Dan Reif, owner of DWP Custom Cabinetry.
“Our team takes great pride in creating cabinetry that is both beautiful and built to last. This award reflects the passion and dedication that goes into every
Joe loved his family. He loved being a father, grandfather and uncle.
He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Ruth, Harold, Dorothy Ann, Donnie, Gary, Carolyn, and Jim. He is survived and missed by his loving wife, Toni of Byron; daughters, Michelle (Dave) Hoshaw of Byron and Erin (Daniel Araya) Chavez of O’Fallon, MO; sisters, Mary Lee (Richard, deceased) of Oregon, Martha (Bob) Hickman of Byron, and Emma (Junior) Scharpf of Galena; and grandchildren, Sarah Hoshaw, Eric Hoshaw, Elliana Chavez, and Makayla Chavez.
A memorial service honoring his well-lived life will be held at 12:00 PM on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home in Oregon, with Pastor Walt Hoshaw of First Baptist Church in Beloit officiating. A visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 10:00 AM. Memorials are established for Ogle County Pheasants Forever or Serenity Hospice & Home of Oregon. To leave an online condolence visit www.farrellhollandgale.com
project we complete,” Reif said Founded in Forreston, DWP Custom Cabinetry has been serving homeowners and businesses across the Midwest for more than three decades.
Known for its hands-on approach and attention to detail, the team works closely with clients to bring their vision to life. For more information about DWP Custom Cabinetry or to view their portfolio, visit www.danleewoodproducts. com or follow them on Instagram @danlee_wood_products.
Two Ogle County students are named to dean’s list at Palmer College of Chiropractic
The following students were named to the 2025 spring trimester dean’s list at Palmer College of Chiropractic’s Main Campus in Davenport, Iowa: Britney Salinas of Lindenwood, and Jacob Sigwards of Stillman Valley.
Palmer College of Chiropractic, the first and largest college in the chiropractic profession, has campuses in Davenport, Iowa, and Port Orange, Florida. – Shaw Local News Network
ABCs OF MEDICARE & MEDICARE ADVANTAGE
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Annual Enrollment Options
Medicare Alphabet: - A, B, C, & D
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Additional Resources
Zumdahl is Byron Women’s Club Woman of the Year
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Byron Woman’s Club has named Susan Zumdahl as its 2025 Byron GFWC Woman of the Year. She joined the club in 2016 and has demonstrated the volunteer spirit that fuels the group, according to a news release.
Zumdahl has been an avid International Aglow area team member, supporting Aglow Ministries for over 20 years. She also serves as president of her church counsel in Pecatonica, helping with their many salad luncheons.
Club members have said… “Susan spreads joy wherever she goes!” “She is often the first smiling face to greet you when you attend BWC meetings.”
Upcoming fundraiser
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 Serenity Hospice
Leaf River Soaring Eagles
4-H Club promotes 4-H
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
National 4-H promotion week is Oct. 5 through Oct. 11 and to help promote it, the Leaf River Soaring Eagles Club decorated the bulletin board at the Bertolet Memorial Library. The library is located at 705 Main St., Leaf River.
This year’s theme is on how 4-H helps youth be beyond ready for the future through the variety of skills that 4-H activities and projects teach the
& 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.
The Byron Women’s Club was organized in 1909. Members meet monthly September through May on the third Tuesday for lunch and a speaker presentation.
If you are interested in attending or would like more information about the Byron Women’s Club, email kvavra90@gmail.com with any questions.
4-H members.
Several members tell how 4-H has helped them prepare for their future careers and volunteerism within their community.
Come by, check it out and grab information on the club. Visitors are always welcome to the club’s meetings the second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Leaf River Complex.
If anyone would like more information on the club, please contact Rene Wehler at 815-973-8132.
Polo Christmas Festival seeks help
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Polo Christmas Festival Committee is seeking volunteers to help make this year’s holiday celebration a success. The festival will take place Dec. 6, and there are a variety of opportunities available to get involved.
“Your participation not only helps bring holiday cheer to our community but also supports one of Polo’s most cherished traditions,” according to a news release. “Whether you can lend a hand for a few hours or the entire day, your time and support are greatly appreciated.”
To sign up as a volunteer, visit linktr.ee/polochristmasfestival.
Photo provided by Byron Women’s Club
Susan Zumdahl (left) was named Woman of the Year 2025 in the Byron Women’s Club. The award was presented by Club President Bonnie Hodina.
Shaw Local File Photo
Kids wave from the back of a decked-out golf cart that participated in the Polo Christmas Festival’s first Parade of Lights on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023.
Photo provided by Leaf River Soaring Eagles
Pictured with the 4-H bulletin board at Bertolet Memorial Library are David Wehler, Hazel Friday, Izabel Cortinez and Kolton Motszko.
LET’S TALK TURKEY!
CONTEST RULES:
1. Register, complete as many of the coupons on this page as you’d like. Be sure to fill out each completely, with your name, address and daytime phone number.
2. Coupons MUST be deposited in the registration boxes located at the business advertised on the coupon. No purchase necessary to enter.
3. Deadline is: Sunday, November 16th at Noon.
4. One coupon at each of the participating sponsors will be drawn on Monday, November 17th.
5. Contest winners will be contacted by phone. Gift cards will be available for pickup at the participating businesses during their regular store hours.
6. Contest registrants must be at least 18 years old.
7. Employees of the newspaper and participating sponsors are not eligible.
8. One turkey per person
9. Original copies only, photocopies will not be honored.
Photo provided by Ogle County Democrats
Beth Bull, Ogle County Democratic vice chair (from left); Brendyn Morgan, candidate for 16th District Congressional representative; Paul Nolley, candidate for 16th District Congressional representative; Kevin Lamm, emcee and candidate for state central committeeman; Joe Berning, candidate for 45th District State Senate; Patrick Cortesi, candidate for state central committeeman; Linda Pottinger, Ogle County Democratic chair; Fidencio Campos, Whiteside County Democratic chair and Kevin Ryan, candidate for U.S. Senate, are shown at the Ogle County Democrats’ annual Fall Fundraiser on Sept. 28, at Historic Stronghold Castle Conference Center.
Ogle County Democrats hold fall fundraiser
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Ogle County Democrats held their 27th annual Fall Fundraiser on Sunday, Sept. 28, at Historic Stronghold Castle Conference Center.
“We had a great turnout, one of our largest ever,” said Linda Pottinger, chair of the Ogle County Democratic Central Committee. “Our primary goals are to raise funds and support Democratic candidates on the ballot for local, state and federal positions. Today we raised the most funds ever and had some great candidates speak at our event.”
In addition to many individual donations, the event was sponsored by eight local unions: Sheetmetal Workers, Local 219; Plumbers and Pipefitters, Local 23; Laborers International, Local 727; Ironworkers, Local 498; Carpenters Local 790; IBEW Local 364; IUOE Local 150; and Teamsters Local 325.
Local musician and music teacher Chris Kolling started the afternoon off playing the national anthem with his guitar. Kevin Lamm, one of the candidates for Democratic State Central Committeeman in the 16th District, served as emcee. Attendees heard from the following Democratic candidates: Kevin Ryan for U.S. Senate, Patrick Cortesi and Kevin Lamm for State Central Committeeman, Nolan Kemp for 74th District state representative, Joe Berning for 45th District State Senate, and Brendyn Morgan and Paul Nolley for 16th District Congressional representative. Videos were provided by Gov. JB Pritzker; Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, candidate for U.S. Senate, and
Rep. Raja Krishnamorthi, candidate for U.S. Senate.
In addition to food and discussion, the group bid on a variety of silent auction items and donated for a chance to win several hundred dollars in the 50/50 raffle.
“I was elected chair of the county Democratic Party just a year ago and this event reinforced the progress we have made in growing our party over the last year,” Pottinger said. “While we are still working on getting more candidates for local seats in the townships and county, it is encouraging to see the quality of Democratic candidates for state and local elections. Democratic and Independent voters in Ogle County are looking for Democratic candidates on the ballots at all levels, and next year we will be providing candidates for many seats that have been unopposed in the past.”
The Ogle County Democrats have been active this year with multiple rallies held in front of the old courthouse, each bringing at least 150 people or more to voice their opinions and concerns. There is also concern about the increasing violence directed at politicians and political figures in both parties. They put a formal statement in the paper denouncing this type of violence on Sept. 29.
“While many of the changes being made in D.C. are not yet being felt by the people of Ogle County, it is important that we work hard to find and support Democratic candidates who share our valuessupport legislation that help our working families, especially our union and agricultural workers, protect our democratic institutions, maintain our constitutional rights,” Pottinger said.
VFW FOOD BASKETS FOR THOSE IN NEED
Once again at Christmas time, Oregon VFW Post 8739 will be making and delivering Christmas food baskets to families and individuals who are in need in the OREGON AREA. We are still going through tough times. Everyone is experiencing setbacks. Lack of work, rising living cost, medical issues. Groceries are at an all-time high. We are asking those who can donate for this purpose please be generous again this year. Donations can be sent to Oregon VFW Post 8739 at 1310 W. Washington St., Oregon IL, 61061. We normally do 120+ baskets. We feel the number will be much larger this year. We want to send a heartfelt thanks to those who donate as well as The Snowblazers who volunteer to deliver them every year. It truly makes people happy. Any family or individual who is in need must call the VFW Monday thru Thursday from 4 PM till 7 PM (815732-6851). Please do not call on Fridays as our phone and people are busy with other work. We will start taking calls November 10. In order to order food we will stop taking calls December 5. Each individual or family must call for themselves. Even if you have called in the past you need to call this year to update your information and make sure you are on the list. We will only ask for address, phone number and number living in your household. Baskets may be a little different due to shortages in food supplies. An adult must be home December 20, 2025 to receive the basket. Delivery’s will start around 8:30 AM and should be finished by noon. If no answer when we deliver basket will be donated to a food pantry. We will start taking phone calls November 10. We ask you to please be patient we know this is important.
November 10, 2025
We will start taking
Please
December 5, 2025
We will stop taking calls. Each individual or family must call for themselves, even if you called in the past you must call again this year.
December 20, 2025
Food Basket Drop off Date An
Veteran’s Day Salute
A prison sentence isn’t enough to end Springfield’s culture of corruption
On Oct. 13, former Illinois Speaker of the House Mike Madigan, now also known as Inmate #90368-509, reported to federal prison to begin a 7.5-year sentence after being convicted on 10 counts of public corruption. His incarceration marks a long-overdue moment of justice. However, an initial punishment against the disgraced former Speaker could have and should have been delivered much sooner.
Back in August 2020, while serving in the Illinois House of Representatives, I led an effort and joined two of my Republican colleagues in filing a petition under a specific House rule to launch a Special Investigating Committee into Madigan’s alleged misconduct. At the time, Madigan’s name had become synonymous with a sprawling federal investigation involving ComEd and a well-documented pattern of abuse of power that cast a long shadow over the Capitol.
The committee was supposed to be the General Assembly’s own mechanism for accountability. It was intended to be a means of determining whether one of our own had betrayed public trust. But from the beginning, that effort was stifled. The committee heard testimony from just one witness before it was abruptly shut down by
Madigan’s right-hand man and ultimate successor as Speaker of the House, Chris Welch. When shutting down the committee, Welch called the effort “a sham show trial.”
When Welch ended the proceedings after hearing from just one witness, he shined a spotlight on a political culture in Springfield that prioritizes loyalty, power and self-preservation over integrity and accountability.
Thank goodness the Feds saw Welch’s actions for what they were and forged ahead with their own investigation against Mike Madigan.
Although Madigan now sits behind bars, Illinois’ culture of corruption is still very much alive today. The legislative response to this latest embarrassment has been silence, not reform. Several ethics reform bills have been filed by Republicans in both the House and the Senate, aiming to raise the ethical bar for elected officials. These proposals include commonsense measures like empowering watchdogs, improving transparency in lobbying,
and strengthening investigative processes within the legislature.
Every one of these bills has sat untouched, blocked by Democrat leaders who appear far more interested in protecting the status quo than fixing a rotten system. In fact, when addressing the press corps before the first day of veto session this year, Speaker Welch said he did not intend to bring forward any ethics reforms during the fall session.
The refusal to even debate reforms filed by Republicans sends a message that corruption will only be punished when federal prosecutors get involved. That should alarm every Illinoisan who is tired of seeing their government operate like a criminal enterprise instead of a public institution.
The Madigan saga may have culminated in a conviction, but the culture
that enabled him for decades remains intact. It is a culture that rewards silence, punishes whistleblowers, and protects those in power. Real change in Illinois will not come from a single resignation or a high-profile sentencing. It will come when the legislature finally chooses to clean house, not just symbolically, but structurally. Until then, the people of Illinois have every reason to remain skeptical of the promises made inside the Capitol.
We must stop pretending that accountability ends when the prison doors close behind a disgraced politician. True reform begins when we change the rules that allow any elected official who abuses their power to thrive in the first place.
• Andrew Chesney, R-Freeport, is the Illinois state senator for the 45th District.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Polo’s Wolber receives PEO grant to pursue master’s degree
Meredith Wolber, a student at American College of Education, was awarded a PEO Program for Continuing Education Grant from the PEO Sisterhood. She was sponsored by PEO Chapter DW of Polo.
The PEO Program for Continuing Education was established in 1973 to provide need-based grants to women in the U.S. and Canada whose education has been interrupted and who find it necessary to return to school to complete a degree or certification that will improve their marketable skills for employment to support themselves and/or families.
Wolber is pursuing a master’s degree in educational leadership. She received her certification as a licensed teacher three years ago.
Chapter DW has been part of the Polo community since it was organized in 1932.
PEO (Philanthropic Educational Organization) has been motivating, educating and celebrating women for more than 155 years. Since its inception in 1869, the nonprofit organization has helped more than 129,000 women pursue educational goals by providing about $462 million in grants, scholarships, awards and loans.
Kish earns ACTLA Online Tutoring Program certification
Kishwaukee College’s Tutoring Services department recently received certification of its online tutoring program through the Association of Colleges for Tutoring and Learning Assistance.
The ACTLA awards Online Tutoring Program Certification to online tutoring programs that meet or exceed rigorous professional standards for tutoring methodology, technological innovation and other programmatic considerations.
“As the needs of our students change, Kishwaukee College has shifted to a greater variety of online or hybrid classes,” Director of Library & Academic Support Services Frances Whaley said. “It is important for our tutors to support all our students interactively in any learning environment. Tutoring Services is proud to earn this certification to help our students succeed.”
An ACTLA review team performed a thorough review of Kish’s tutoring services practices before awarding the certification.
“The reviewing team was impressed with your thorough training plans, focus on
Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center offers Arlington Heights trip
student success, and thoughtful observation and evaluation process,” they noted in their review.
Tutoring Services at Kishwaukee College offers free academic support in math, writing, science, technology and more. Students can meet with Kish tutors via Zoom or in-person or utilize 24/7 tutoring through Brainfuse. In addition to the ACTLA certification, Kish tutoring services maintains a College Reading and Learning Association International Tutor Training Program Certification.
Learn more or connect with Kish’s tutoring services at kish.edu/tutoring.
Leaf River Lions Club donates to Soaring Eagles 4-H Club
The Leaf River Soaring Eagles 4-H Club met Oct. 13, when Leaf River Lions Club President Kaden Lingbeck presented a check to the Leaf River Soaring Eagles 4-H Club for the help club members gave to make pizzas for the Lions Club fundraiser.
The club went over the many events that happened at the beginning of October.
One exciting result from National 4-H week was the club won first place for the 4-H week bulletin board.
Hazel Friday led the committee that designed the bulletin board. David Wehler
brought writing supplies and led the club members in writing letters to sailors. These letters will be sent to military members aboard the USS Fitzgerald.
On Dec. 3, the Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center is going on a trip. The library on Wednesday, Dec. 3, is hosting a trip to the Metropolis Performing Arts Center in Arlington Heights to see “Home for the Holidays: An Evening with Levi Kreis.” The bus leaves at 10 a.m. and returns at 6 p.m. Cost is $85 a person. Call The Center at 815-734-6335 to sign up.
– Shaw Local News Network
AUCTIONEER DIRECTORY
A&T Auction Services, LLC LIVE & Online Auctions
Travis Cunningham 815-297-4595
Located in Forreston, IL www.aandtauctionservices.hibid.com
Lenny Bryson Sales of ALL Kinds! 815-946-4120 www.lennybrysonauctioneer.com
Whitetail Properties Real Estate / Ranch & Farm Auctions
Todd Henry - Broker, Land Specialist / Licensed in IL
Meredith Wolber receives her Program for Continuing Education certificate from Maggie Henning, PCE chair.
Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
The Mt. Morris Senior and Community Center is located at 9 E. Front Street.
Bertolet Memorial Library hosting microgreen learning session
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Has microgreens ever come up in a talk? Microgreens are simply the first leaves of the vegetables that the public know. They are small in stature but contain high levels of powerful vitamins, minerals and health-supporting components.
Learn how to grow them at a session that will take place 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at the Bertolet Memorial Library in Leaf River.
Presented by Joyce Lewis, grant coordinator from the Ogle County Health Department, participants will learn how to grow microgreens and explore creative ways to incorporate them into their diets through engaging hands-on classes.
Each participant will receive a free passive microgreen kit to grow their own microgreens at home. The kit contains a
Stories With Stacey
Join Miss Stacey and some pre-K friends for a fun time of stories and activities every Thursday at 10 a.m. when participants read their way through the alphabet.
Adult Book of the Month
mini grow light, a microgreen tray, nutrients for water, a seed packet and all the information needed for success. Registration is required and limited to 15 participants a class. Call 815-738-2742 to register.
UNO Game Night
Monday, Nov. 17: From 5-6:30 p.m., UNO Dos, Flip, Attack and Original will all be available for people to show off.
In “When Ghosts Come Home” by Wiley Cash, Winston Barnes is the sheriff in a small town in North Carolina. As he begins a plane crash and murder investigation that could sway the outcome of his re-election, racial tension rises and his daughter flies home after a major loss. Stop by the circulation desk to pick up your copy today.
Spice of the Month: Rosemary
Native to the dry, rocky areas of the Mediterranean, rosemary has long been associated with memory, remembrance, happiness, loyalty, and love. Stop by and
pick up a kit to try some delicious recipes featuring rosemary.
Community Puzzle
The library has swapped out that impossible fall foliage puzzle. The new one is coming together nicely. Stop and add a piece.
Game Table
The library has a variety of board games, including checkers, for anyone to play. Stop in and bring a competitive spirit.
New releases
Adult books: “The Courtship Plan” by Kathleen Fuller and “The Lost Baker of Vienna” by Sharon Kurtzman Chapter book: “Aqueduct of Segovia” by Brienna Rossiter Picture book: “If We Were Dogs” by Sophie Blackall
Photo provided by University of Illinois Extension Office Microgreens growing in a greenhouse.
Oregon library full of activity
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Maker Space creates
Thursdays at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. – reservations required. The Oregon Public Library Makerspace offers tools and resources for hands-on creation and learning. Patrons can explore design, engineering, and creative projects using a variety of equipment and materials. Reserve a one-hour session in advance. The library will contact patrons to arrange details. Need more than one hour? Register for both time slots. Must be an Oregon Library cardholder.
Preschool
Story Time
For ages 18 months to 6 years. Join on Mondays at 10 a.m. for stories, crafts and fun social time. Registration is required. Visit oregonpubliclibrary.com or call 815732-2724 to register.
Ink with A Friend monthly card club
At 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17, create personalized greeting cards with beautiful cardstock, designer paper, stamped images, die-cuts, ink, ribbon and embellishments.
All skill levels welcome. Kits include matching envelopes. Registration required. Call 815-732-2724 or visit oregonpubliclibrary.com.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Byron 2nd grade teacher wins Outstanding Young Alumni Award
The Byron School District has announced that Annie Burke, second grade teacher at Mary Morgan Elementary School, has been awarded The Outstanding Young Alumni Award from Illinois State University.
Burke earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Illinois State University. She also earned a master’s in educational leadership. Burke has served as a second grade teacher in Byron for 5 years. Burke is known for her dedication to student success. She adapts her
Try It Tuesday: no-sew hand warmers
Tuesday, Nov. 18 at 1:30 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. (choose your time). Prepare for cold weather by making hand warmers –no sewing needed. Adults only (18+). Space is limited; registration required. Call 815-732-2724 or visit oregonpubliclibrary.com.
Book
clubs
“2WBC” meets at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12 to discuss “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Afternoon Book Club meets at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19 to discuss “The Underground Library” by Jennifer Ryan. “Cocktails and Crime” meets Nov. 16; stop by the Library for details on title, location, and time. “Books on Tap” meets at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30 at Cork & Tap to discuss “The Favorites” by Layne Fargo.
Knit & crochet group
At 1 p.m. Mondays, all skill levels welcome. Bring a project or start a new one. Socialize and get help with knitting or crocheting. Registration requested at oregonpubliclibrary.com.
Oregon Writers Group
This group meets the second Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. Writers and aspiring writers gather to support each other, brainstorm, and improve their craft.
Pet Care Services
teaching to meet the diverse needs of her classroom, ensuring every student feels valued and inspired to learn.
A committed leader, she organized Family Bingo Night, an event that has engaged over 600 participants in just two years to promote literacy and celebrate student achievement. Burke also contributes to a positive school culture as part of the social committee.
Her passion for education and holistic student support earned her the 2024 ISBE Those Who Excel Early Career Educator Award. She was recognized for her impactful contributions both in and beyond the classroom.
Burke said she feels honored that her alma mater has recognized her hard work in the field of education.
ROCHELLE VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Annie Burke
Warranty Deeds
• Clinton Veterinary Clinic Sc to Arthur Mueller, 18530 E Twombly Rd, Rochelle, $140,000
• David G. Schoenholz to Lawrence Burke, 3606 W Cedar St, Dixon, $85,000
• Hre Builders Llc to Denise R. Frankes and Jeffrey S. Frakes, 522 N 6th St., Rochelle, $67,500
• Mackenzie G Chudzik and Bailey R. Lang to Diana K. Penaran, 604 N 7th St, Rochelle, $244,00
• Suzanne K. Altenburg to Unique Needs Property Management Llc, 211 Jeffrey Ave, Rochelle, $110,000
• Sydney R. Adkisson to Joseph King, 306 W Front St, Mt. Morris, $165,000
• Richard J. Harms and Janaan K. to Jack Schuit and Allyson Bartling, 10-07-300006, $728,250
• Wendy J. Mertes Trustee and Wendy J. Mertes Tr. To Charles J. Ostrander Iii and Averi G. Ostrander, 703 N 4th St, Oregon, $15,000
• Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation to Cook Colten Mcquay, 109 N Seminary St, Mt. Morris, $148,000
• Matthew Gendusa and Haylee K. Gendusa to Jared Lee Pottorff, 707 S 7th St, Oregon, $170,000
• Gary K. Dunn, Lori J. Dunn and Lori J. Halterman to Randal D. Tabor and Mandy D. Tabor, 155 Joanne Lane, Rochelle, $130,000
• Shreeji Prakash Llc to Swamibapa Rochelle Llc, 601 E IL Rte 38, Rochelle, and one parcel in DeMent Township, $2,400,000
• City Of Rochelle Illinois, City Of Rochelle Illinois, and City of Rochelle to Jason M. Harper and Eryn M. Harper, 1414 Carrie Ave, Rochelle, $6,000
• William Messenger and Nancy Messenger to Kevin M. Wolf, 1071 W Washington St, Oregon, $300,000
• Hale Airport Properties Llc to Jeffrey M. Lizeth L. Kay, one parcel in Rockvale Township, $160,000
• Timothy A. Dayton to Steven E. Grover and Cambria C. Grover, one parcel in Pine Rock Township: 17-02-100-011, $290,000
Quit Claims
• Kalen Spengler to Tristen Spengler, 403 N Division Ave, Polo, $0.00
• Bonnie L. Blumeyer to Francis E. Blumeyer, 7202 S Lowden Rd, Oregon, $0.00
• Haleigh Palchik to Colin O. Malley, 210 E Lincoln St, Mt. Morris, $0.00
Trustees Deeds
• Donna J. Cerveny Trustee, Lori L. Fagan Trustee and Dj Cerveny Living Tr to Donna J. Cerveny, Brian C. Fagan, and Lori L. Fagan, 847 W Jennie Ln, Oregon, $0.00
• Stillman Bank Trustee and Alvin D. Roberts to Williams H F Roberts, 4392 E Short Rd, Byron, $327,000
Deeds in Trust
• Katherine A. Braner to Katherine A. Braner Trustee and Katherine A. Braner Rev Tr, 20620 E Lindenwood Rd, Lindenwood, $0.00
• Jorge Delatorre and Susann Delatorre to Jorge Delatorre Trustee, Susann Delatorre, and Jorge & Susann Rev Lv Tr, 17934 E Marcia Dr, Monroe Center, $0.00
• Stanwood S. Black, Stanwood Black, Tricia M. Black and Tricia Black to Stanwood S. Black Trustee, Tricia M. Black Trustee, and Black Family Trl., 409 E Hitt St, Mt. Morris, and 505 N Hannah Ave., Mt. Morris, $0.00
• Jacqueline K. Holder, to Jacqueline K. Holder Trustee and Jacqueline K. Holder Land Tr., 120 W 2nd St, Byron, and one parcel in Byron Township: 05-32-152-007, $0.00
• Scott L. Martin to Angela L. Martin-Bakener Trustee, Slm Tr825, Angela L. Martin-Bakener Trustee, one parcel in Pine Creek Township: 15-12-100-009; 715 Monroe St, Oregon; and one parcel in Oregon-Nashua Township: 16-04-289002, $0.00
• Aaron Mendoza, Heather E. Mendoza and Heather Mendoza to Heather Mendoza Trustee, Aaron Mendoza Trustee, and Aaron & Heather Mendoza Lv Tr, one parcel in Oregon-Nashua Township: 16-03-126-003, $0.00
• Aaron Mendoza, Heather E. Mendoza, and Heather Mendoza to Heather Mendoza Trustee, Aaron Mendoza Trustee, Aaron & Heather Mendoza Lv Tr, 791 N River Rd, Oregon, $0.00
– Shaw Local News Network
NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE FOR THE LEAF RIVER FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy increase for the Leaf River Fire Protection District for 2025 will be held on November 24, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the District Fire Station, located at 205 W. 3rd Street, Leaf River, Illinois.
Any person desiring to appear at the public hearing and present testimony to the taxing district may contact President Katie Sheely c/o Leaf River Fire Protection District, 205 W. 3rd Street, Leaf River, Illinois, telephone (815) 738-2979
II. The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $139,018. The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $211,500. This represents a 52% increase over the previous year.
III. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2024 were $0.00.
The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2025 are $0.00. This represents a 0% increase or decrease over the previous year.
IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $139,018. The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $211,500. This represents a 52% increase over the previous year.
JUDITH L. JOLLY
Born: March 24, 1940 in Belvidere, IL Died: November 1, 2025 in Rockford, IL
Judith L. “Judy” Jolly, age 85, died Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, at Grand Victorian Senior Living and Care Community in Rockford, IL. She was born March 24, 1940, in Belvidere, IL the daughter of Harold A. and Mildred L. (Simerl) Washburn. Judy graduated as valedictorian from Stillman Valley High School in 1958. She married William “Bill” Jolly on August 29, 1958, in Davis Junction, IL. After her children started school, she went back to school herself and got her teaching degree. She first attended
Rock Valley Community College, then obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Master’s Degree in Education from Northern Illinois University. Judy taught for 30 years at Highland Elementary School for the Stillman Valley School District (now Meridian CUSD 223). She loved to teach children to read, so after her retirement she became a reading tutor for 10 years at Rockford Public Schools. Judy taught Sunday School at Congregation Christian Church and was a longtime member of Valley Evangelical Covenant Church of Stillman Valley where she served on several boards. She was a member of the Association of American University Women, Illinois Education Association, National Education Association, Ogle County Retired Teachers Association and Monroe Center Historical Society. She was predeceased by her husband Bill, her parents Harold and Mil-
SVHS Students of the Month for September named
Photo provided by Stillman Bank Stillman Valley High School Students of the Month for September were recently named. Pictured from left to right are SVHS Assistant Principal Jeff Voltz, Connor O’Sullivan (12th grade), Averie Aughenbaugh (11th grade), Liam James (10th grade), Camden Hansen (ninth grade), and Stillman Bank Retail Office Manager Jennifer Simons. Each of the students received a gift card for their achievement.
dred Washburn, and her brother Glee (age 11). She is survived by her son Chris (Nancy) Jolly of Ormond Beach, FL; her daughter Jill (Bill) Huber of Stillman Valley, IL; her sister Linda (Warren) Dutton of Oregon, IL; her grandchildren Hannah (Dan) Meyers of Lake Bluff, IL; Mitchell (Tricia) Detig of North Barrington, IL; Benjamin (Cassie) Detig of Janesville, WI; and Catherine Jolly (Kaleigh Henry) of Boulder, CO; step grandchildren Tara Yanes of Harmon, IL, and Derek (Kelly) Huber of Buffalo Grove, IL; great grandchildren Aiden Detig, Jocelyn Detig, Cooper Detig, Beau Detig, Payton (Tyler) Hammer, Jace Yanes, Harrison Huber, and Jorie (Zach) Pageloff; great great grandchildren Rory Hammer, Fynn Hammer, Thea Pageloff and Revan Pageloff; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held Thursday evening from 4-7 PM at Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home,
136 W. Roosevelt Road in Stillman Valley, IL. A funeral service will be 11:00 AM, Friday, Nov. 7, 2025, at Valley Evangelical Covenant Church, 103 S. Maple Street in Stillman Valley, IL with Pastors Lisa and Bill Orris Co-officiating. Visitation will also be held at the church prior to the service from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM. The family would like to thank the staff at Grand Victorian Senior Living and Northern Illinois Hospice for their special care of Judy. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is established In Judy’s name for Valley Evangelical Covenant Church, Valley Covenant Preschool, Northern Illinois Hospice, and Meridian Education Foundation.
HOW TO PLAY
Each row, column and set of 3-by-3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 through 9 without repetition.
Pickles
Wizard of Id
Alley Oop
Garfield
Hagar the Horrible
Barney Google and Snuffy Smith
Daddy Daze
JANRIC CLASSIC SUDOKU
This is a theme puzzle with the subject stated below. Find the listed words in the grid. (They may run in any direction but 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.
Bank industry
Solution: 19 Letters Alarm Analysis Applied ASIC Assets Bank Bonds Buck Card Cash Cent Coin Copper Costs Crown Debtor Deposit Ducat Euro Fees Gain Gold Goods Guinea Kits Lending Loan Loss Mint Money Mortgage Notes Pay Real Risk Safe Sale Secure Seller Sixpence Staff Stock exchange Taxes Terms Thrifty Trade Users Value
Solution: They like us when we owe Date: 11/7/25 Creators Syndicate 737 3rd Street • Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 310-337-7003 • info@creators.com
Speed Bump
CLASSIFIED
EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT
HVAC REPAIR & INSTALLATION TECHS
Anderson Plumbing & Heating in Ro chelle is seeking full tim e HVAC Repair & Installation Techs with 3+ years of exp erience.
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TELLER
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*Handicapped accessible unit Affordable RD Housing for All Ages If you or someone you know is interested, please call or visit our website: 60 8-78 4-13 81 allegiantprop ertym gm tllc.com
FARMLAND AUCTION
Section 17 Byron Tow nship, 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 Eas t 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
For complete listing of s ur vey, sale bill, maps, tax info, and ter ms & conditions, etc visit www.lenn yb ryson au ctioneer .com
For I nformation Contact: Ow ner, Alvin Oltmanns Trus t Lenn y Brys on - Auction eer Joe McCoy, Stillm an B an k Trust Dept Ph: 815-946-4120
Attorney, Dave Smith Ph: 815-732-6124
Antique Farm Bell with yoke, cradle & dap per Appraised to be between: 1866-1872
Blymeyer, Norton and Co. Cincinnati, Ohio , 15 inch diameter, no chips or cracks
$850
If inter ested leave a message at 815- 994-0 700
815-213-1665 BOAT DOCK 25' by 3' $100 815- 626-4 991 2004 Range Rover 93,000 mi les $12,000 815- 626-1 117
LASALLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS LAND AUCTION
The farm is located 3 miles east of McNabb, IL or 12 miles southwest of Peru, IL. The land is further described as being located in
6, T31N-R1E, Hope Township, LaSalle County, Illinois. This investment grade farm contains 100% Class A soils!
Representing Attorney: Cote J. Klinefelter Herbolsheimer, Duncan & Klinefelter, P.C. 654 1st St, La Salle, IL 61301 | (815) 223-0111
Auction Manager: Kevin Haas (309) 264-7767
Reminder
Farmland Auction - Ogle County
Sa turd ay, November 15, 202 5
Sale will be held at 11:00 am at the Pine C reek Christian C hurch Fellowship Hall, 8061 W Penn Corner R oad, Polo, IL 61064
The 160 acres of far mland will be selli ng in 5 surv eyed Parcels2 parcels farm ground, timb er , quarry and country home with out-buildings
Ow ne r: Mary Elizabeth Love Stuff Trust #1
Auctioneer: Lenny Bryson 815-946-4120
Public Auction Service Lyle Hopkins 815-441-1251
Attorney for the Trust is Emily Vivian of Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger & Considine, LLC
Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025 at 11: 00 AM
Sale to be held at: Charles D. B ertolet Foundation 103 W. 2nd St Leaf River, IL 61047
SELLING IN TWO TRA CTS -
TENANCY FOR 2026
VILLA GE GREEN - GENOA Railroad Ave, Genoa, IL 60135
815-234-2620
VillageGreenGenoa@ppmil.com
"We
VILLAGE GREEN - MT MORRIS Barbara St., Mt. Morris, IL 61054 815-234-2620
VillageGreenMtMorris@ppmil.com
"We are accepting applications"
VILL AGE GR EEN - BYRON Blanchard Ct., Byron, IL 61010 815-234-2620
VillageGreenByron@ppmil.com "We
ORDINANCE NO. 2025 - 01
ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE BUDGET AND APPROPRIATIONS OF THE LE AF RIVER F IRE PROTECTION DISTRICT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, FOR THE FI SCAL YEAR BEGINNING MAY 1, 2025, AND ENDING APRIL 30, 2026
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of the Leaf Rive r Fire Protec tion Dis trict, Ogle County, Illinois, caused to be prep ared in tentativ e form a Budget and the S ecretary of this Board has made the same conv eniently available for public inspection for at least thirty ( 30) days prior to final ac tion thereon; a nd
WHEREAS, a public hearing was he ld as to such Budget on the 7th day of August 2025 and Notice of said hearing was given at le ast thirty (30) days pr ior thereto as re quired by law , and the Board having met a ll other applicable legal requirements
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Trus tees of the Leaf River Fire Protection District, Ogle County , Illinois , as follows:
Section 1: Tha t the fiscal yea r of the Fire Prote ction District is hereby fixed to begin on May 1, 2025, and end on A pril 30, 2026.
Section 2: That the follow ing Budget c ontaining an estimate of the revenue s available and expenditures a nd the appropria tions contained therein be and the sa me is hereby adopte d as the Budget and Appropria tions for this fire protection district for this fiscal year; and the following sums of money, or as much thereof as may be authorized by law, is hereby a ppropriated to defray the necessa ry expenses and lia bilitie s of the District, for the respe ctive objects and purpose s, as hereinafter s et for th namely:
Estimat ed Corporate Fund Revenues
Item 1: Bala nce on hand as of Ma y 1, 2025 $
(Includ ing capital Rese rve of $400,00 0.00) Item 2: Prop erty taxe s to be receive d
Section 3: That all unexpende d balances of any item or it ems of any ge neral appropria tion in this Ordinance be expende d in making up any insufficienc y in any
general appropriation and for the same ge neral purpose of a ny like a ppropriation made by this Ordinance.
Section 4: Tha t the inva lidity of any item or Sec tion of thi s Ordinance shall not affect the validity of the whole or a ny other part hereof
Section 5: Tha t this O rdinance sha ll be in full force and effec t from and after passage, approval and publication as prov ided by la w.
ADOPTED this 7th day of August 2025, pursuant to a roll call vote as follows:
AY ES: 3
NAYS: 0
ABSTAI N: 0
ATTEST:
Da wn Plock, Sec retary, Board of Trustees Leaf River Fire Protection District STATE OF ILLINOI S ) )SS COUNTY OF OGLE)
SE CRETA RY'S CE RTIFICATE
I, Da wn Plock, the duly qualified S ecr eta ry of the Board of Trustees of the Leaf Rive r Fire Protection District, Ogle County, Illinois, do he reby certif y that the a tta ched hereto is a true and correct copy of an Ordinance entitled:
ORDINANCE NO. 2025 - 01
ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE BUDGET AND APPROPRIATIONS OF THE LE AF RIVER F IRE PROTECTION DISTRICT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, F OR THE FI SCAL YEAR BEGINNING MAY 1, 2025, AND ENDING APRIL 30, 2026
which Or dinance was adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Lea f River Fire Protection District at a mee ting held on August 7, 2025. I do furthe r ce rtify that a quorum of sa id Boa rd was present in person at said me eting, and that the Board compl ie d with all requirements of the Illinois Open Meetings Ac t. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto se t my hand this 7th da y of August 2025
Dawn Plock, Sec retary, Board of Trustees Leaf River Fire Prote ction District November 10, 2025
Considine’s 3 TD runs aid Byron’s rout Oregon
Byron running back rushes for 182 yards on 14 carries in victory
By SAM RAMIREZ for Shaw Local News Network
Byron scored 36 straight points in the second quarter and went on to beat Oregon, 63-15, in the Class 3A first-round game on Friday in Byron.
Caden Considine rushed for 182 yards and three touchdowns on 14 carries for Byron (10-0).
Oregon, which finished the sea -
son 5-5, closed the gap to 14-7 with 11:51 left in the second quarter on a 55-yard touchdown pass from Benny Olade to Keaton Salisbury.
However Byron would take a 50-7 lead into halftime.
The Tigers finished the game with 443 yards rushing on 45 carries. Six different players scored for Byron.
Oregon finished the game with just 184 total yards.
The 63 points given up by Oregon are the most in a single game in school history.
Byron advanced to play at Pecatonica on Saturday in the second-round of the Class 3A playoffs.
Losses in the playoffs need to be put in perspective
Andy Colbert SPORTS VIEWS
This was one of those weeks when it was hard to get motivation to do a column. Could it be from a bad head cold, writer’s block or burnout from 627 trick or treaters on Halloween?
I’d like to say yes to any of the above, but sadly it is from emotional distress after seeing my beloved Rochelle Hubs lose a playoff game by the cruelest of measures.
Ahead 14-13 with less than a minute to play, all the Hubs had to do was recover an onside kick to seal the win. Instead, Geneseo managed to grab the loose ball and drove down to connect on a knuckleball field goal as time expired for a miracle victory.
Sorry to sound like a whiner as this isn’t the first time I shared emotional pains experienced from high school sport losses. Sure, I have a long history with the old alma mater of Rochelle, and still haven’t quite gotten over the sting felt on a long three-hour drive from Carthage in Barney Vecchia’s RV after an improbable football loss by Oregon in the 2008 playoffs.
Maybe putting this down on paper
will have a cathartic effect and relief will be found. Rochelle was the only team in the state to lose a first-round rematch against a team that it had beaten (41-14) in the regular season, but it was a legitimate loss.
It was a different case for the Fairfield Mules in far downstate Illinois. Like Rochelle, they also lost on a last-second field goal, but winning team PORTA was allowed five downs before kicking the field goal.
Apparently, officials got confused in the frantic final seconds and failed to recognize the extra down.
Video evidence of the debacle was sent to the IHSA and here are excerpts from a statement by Executive Director Craig Anderson:
IHSA by-law 6.033 clearly states that “the decisions of game officials shall be final; protests against the decision of a game official shall not be reviewed by the Board of Directors. Neither have the ability to alter the outcome of a contest that has been determined on the field. The contest result shall remain final with PORTA Co-op advancing to the 3A second round.
I recognize that there will be calls for the game result to be changed, or for PORTA to forfeit, but neither option is a possibility within the IHSA by-law structure. What occurred on the field in the waning moments of the contest
appears to be a simple case of human error, something that occurs in all levels of sport.
The most important part of what was essentially a 455-word apology to Fairfield from the IHSA was the fact that a human error occurred.
As evidenced by social media, people not only in Fairfield, but in all parts of the state are irate over this perceived miscarriage of justice. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a march with pitchforks and torches on the IHSA headquarters in Bloomington. Well, maybe not.
Let’s not forget a cautionary tale from 31 years ago.
In a quarterfinal playoff game between Stockton and Durand, officiating errors contributed to Durand losing 20-14. After being subjected to a barrage of criticism and insults, one of those officials attempted suicide.
Written on the back of a sheet of paper from the IHSA that mentioned the official had been selected to referee the state finals was the suicide note. That official was the son of one of the most successful officials in the state and had been waiting 20 years for the call to do a state final, like his father had done so many times.
After the game, the IHSA rescinded the opportunity to do that coveted state final. Combined with the outrage from
Durand, the coach and educator couldn’t take it anymore. Into his garage he went on a November day like this, downing pills and turning on the ignition of his car to end the pain he felt.
Fortunately, he came to his senses before death set in and left the garage seeking help. Eventually he got back into everyday life, including officiating, but those scars from 1994 never left him.
As hard as it is to accept, we have no other choice than to realize that mistakes are made. Simple ones with little consequences can be easy to look past. But when one team’s playoff life is at stake, not so easy.
Throw out common sense, grace and kindness to our fellow man. The final outcome of a game has taken precedence over anything. Apart from divine intervention, emotions will overrule intellect. Trust me, I know what that emotional roller coaster is like after seeing Rochelle stop a 2-point conversion at the goal line to preserve the lead, totally convinced the game was over, until the unthinkable happened. I’m no different that the Fairfield people whose team lost.
• Andy Colbert is a sports writer for Shaw Local covering high school sports in Ogle County.
Byron’s Caden Considine (37) runs with the ball against Oregon Oct. 31, in the first round of the 3A state playoffs held at the Everett Stine Stadium in Byron.
Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
Polo pulls away from Hiawatha in playoff opener
Marcos overpower Hawks in the trenches to advance to 8-man quarterfinals
By TY REYNOLDS
Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Polo grabbed momentum early, and then Hiawatha fought back. But the Marcos had the answers in the second half and went on to defeat the Hawks 36-14 in their Illinois 8-Man Football Association first-round playoff game Saturday in Polo.
The Marcos (9-1) scored on their first three possessions, and then saw Hiawatha turn two turnovers into touchdowns. But the second half was all Polo as it held the Hawks to minus18 yards rushing while adding two Jordan Reed touchdown runs to pull away.
“Our defense definitely set the tone today. Our offense struggled a little bit at times, but we found our stride again and finished it,” said senior lineman Wyatt Plachno, who got a second-half carry for three yards. “They did what we expected them to do. We were expecting more trick plays, so we were more on our toes than usual, but we got in the backfield and we rattled them a little bit.”
Polo recovered an onside kick to start the game, and quarterback JT Stephenson scored on a 9-yard run eight plays later for an 8-0 lead. Hiawatha drove to the red zone, but Reed intercepted a pass at the 1-yard line to thwart a scoring chance.
The Marcos then marched 99 yards in 11 plays with Stephenson scoring from 11 yards out for a 14-0 lead.
“It was really our energy,” Reed said. “We had to get it up, get it going, and our coaches were saying that we needed to punch them in the mouth right away and get our offense going.”
Polo forced a three-and-out, and then Stephenson threw a 43-yard touchdown pass to Reed on a wheel route to make it 22-0.
Polo then recovered its second onside kick of the half.
“It’s really big to get those. We work on it a lot at practice, our onside kicks, and we got two of them today,” Stephenson said. “We work hard on it, and we’ve got eight guys going after the ball
that really want it.”
A fumbled snap was kicked about 15 yards downfield, and Hiawatha recovered. Senior quarterback Aidan Cooper then sprinted 68 yards for a Hawks touchdown.
On the next series, Tim Pruitt picked off a Polo pass and returned it 53 yards to the 7-yard line before running in from five yards on a direct-snap sweep to cut the Hawks’ deficit to 22-14 with 39.7 seconds left in the first half.
“It feels nice that we can overcome things and change really quick the way that we’re moving,” said Cooper, who finished with 59 yards rushing and 56 yards passing. “We really gave it all that we had out there and left it all on the field, but I think they just kind of outpowered us.”
Hiawatha (5-5) was playing without three offensive starters – both guards went down with early injuries and its top receiver also was sidelined – and just couldn’t keep up with the Marcos in the second half.
Reed’s 16-yard run on a direct snap capped Polo’s opening drive of the third quarter, and then he redeemed himself after fumbling on the next possession to score from 22 yards out for a 36-14 lead with 1:13 left in the third.
“Our biggest thing is the next play. Don’t worry about the last one,” Stephenson said. “You can’t go back in the past, so you can’t change it. That’s one thing we preach is looking ahead to the next play, make the next one count.”
Stephenson rushed for 179 yards on 28 carries, and also connected with Reed on three passes for 56 yards. Stephenson added a team-high five tackles.
Reed had 129 yards on 17 carries as Polo amassed 387 yards of total offense, including 331 on the ground. Reed had four tackles and an interception.
Plachno had two tackles for loss, two sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Ethan Dewey had three tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack and a fumble recovery. Esteban Salinas
had an interception for the Marcos.
“It’s really the front four. They were making a whole lot of plays and getting in their backfield constantly, making tackles behind the line of scrimmage,” Reed said. “That helped us DBs make big plays, too, because they were forcing bad throws.”
Hiawatha managed only 113 total yards, rushing for minus-11 yards besides Cooper’s long touchdown run. The Hawks turned the ball over four times and managed only six first downs, with only one of their eight possessions including multiple first downs.
“The kids kept fighting,” Hiawatha coach Kenny McPeek said. “We played without three offensive starters, and that kind of hurt, but we played well doing it. The interceptions really helped, and our defense was real solid and played well. Overall, this is the best we’ve played Polo in the five years I’ve been coaching, and being in the playoffs, that’s a good thing.”
Alex T. Paschal
Polo’s Jordan Reed (17 carries, 129 yards) runs for against Hiawatha Nov. 1, in the first round of Illinois 8-man football playoffs.
Marcos gain playoff victory
Photos by Alex T. Paschal
TOP LEFT: Polo’s Quinton Hart grabs a hold of Hiawatha’s Tim Pruitt Nov. 1, in the 8-man football playoffs.
TOP RIGHT: Polo’s Jordan Reed celebrates a touchdown with teammate Ethan Dewey against Hiawatha on Saturday. ABOVE: Polo’s JT Stephenson fight for yardage against Hiawatha’s Tim Pruitt during Saturday’s game. LEFT: Polo’s Korbin Cavanaugh hauls in a 2-point conversion pass against Hiawatha on Saturday. Polo won the contest, 36-14.
SPORTS
TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY
1857: Paul Morphy won the first American Chess Congress.
1963: Gordie Howe become the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer, netting his 545th.
Monday, November 10, 2025
VICTORY RUSH
Polo grabbed momentum early and Hiawatha fought back, but the Marcos beat the Hawks, 36-14, in their 8-Man playoff game Saturday in Polo / 30, 31
Polo’s JT Stephenson gains yardage against Hiawatha Nov. 1, in the 8-man football playoffs.
