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LOCAL NEWS

IDOT PROPOSES ROUNDABOUT

Veterans honored

Oregon school district and the VFW saluted veterans on Veterans Day, Nov. 11 / 13 TODAY’S EDITION: 32 pages • Vol. 37, Issue 32

The Illinois Department of Transportation poses new intersection at Routes 251 and 64 north of Rochelle / 3

Consider this: When do we start winning?

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

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How many of us believed that President Donald Trump would ever send tomahawk missiles to Ukraine? How many believed that talking with Putin prior to meeting with Zelensky was appropriate? How many believe that it is Putin calling the shots when it comes to most any discussion between the U.S. and Russia? Does anyone think that the meeting with China, Russia and India on Labor Day had anything to do with the U.S. having a leading position in the world or that India is going to reduce its purchases of Russian oil? So, what kind of standing in the world does the U.S. currently have? Are things looking better or are they deteriorating? How about at home? Do things look better here? Are we tired of various troops of National Guard from several states deploying to cities in their states and others? Are we tired of ICE personnel moving into towns and stopping residents that are not white, though many are believers in our democracy, work and pay taxes, without searching for the criminals that they were supposedly directed to remove? What about the tariffs? Are we raking in the money yet? Now look at soybean farmers. Farmers historically have voted for Republican presidents, viewing them as more friendly to farmers and their needs. In 2018, however, President Donald Trump’s trade war with China caused a loss to soybean farmers that cost the U.S. taxpayers $10.5 billion in farm subsidies. See article at “www.apmresearchlab.org/farm-aid”. With President Trump back in the White House, and the trade war with China and others back in our outlook, Republicans have estimated that U.S. soybean farmers need as much as $50 billion to stay in the black. See the article at “www. forbes.com/sites/fresh-take/2025/10/15/ trumps-trade-war-upends-soybean-market-with-no-aid-in-sight/.” How are our farmers feeling about Republicans now? Even more critical to our farmers is the fact that the House of Representatives is on break, I guess until the government shutdown is over. Although our Congress is still getting paid, they

creative, but most were made for the rally and included thoughtful meaning. Third, were the demonstrations small? Did he check them out or look at them? Fourth, if he is looking at the first listed definition of “whacked out” which aren’t doing work. Well maybe it is just means “worn-out and exhausted”, then status quo. But some farmers will not he is correct. We are worn out from his make it to the next harvest. They need daily bombardment of our constitution, to have something done by the end of legal system, and First Amendment the year. When, and if, something is rights. done, it’s the taxpayers who will foot the Those that are fine with the way our bill. More taxes produced by tariffs. government is being run now, rememAnd, even now, the Republicans could ber this. What do the lives of the people fund our government if they wanted. in countries that are currently oligarDemocrats are not needed to do that. So chies, autocracies and dictatorships why are the members of Congress getlook like? Can you tell which are for ting paid? their government and which are against Many of us might be fine with things it? Is there a large population, say 49.8% as they are. That is, of course, until they of the country’s citizens, living their aren’t and we may no longer have a best lives? In videos, news feeds, on chance to change things. This is partly social media and other outlets, is it why there have been No Kings rallies. being reported that at least half of these Some say that the participants hate populations can afford everything they their country. But through our deducneed for living their everyday lives? tive skills, we can realize this is just a Finally, should we really be blowing ruse. There were seven million particiup boats and murdering people in interpants and no problems. You can tell that national waters whether they are carrythey are only concerned about the auto- ing drugs or not? If so, then is the borcratic tendencies being displayed and der not closed tightly enough to prevent that they love America and its democthis traffic? Are there other ways to get racy. If you don’t agree with this, then the job done? Is it fair to our troops to what would change your mind? force them to go against the oath they About the rally, President Donald took when signing up? Trump said, “I looked at the people. Is the $40 billion of our money that They’re not representative of this coun- the President wants to send Argentina try, and I looked at all the brand new just to keep their government in power? signs paid for. I guess it was paid for by If so, is this truly a necessity? Should we Soros and other radical left lunatics,” even be thinking about this during a the president said. “It looks like it was government shutdown? $40 billion worth checking out. The demonstrawould go a long way within the governtions were very small, very ineffective ment to keep jobs, health care subsidies, and the people were whacked out. When and other government benefits that help you look at those people, those are not all American citizens. representative of the people of our counI realize this is a lot of questions. I try.” am hoping that you will review them First, I and the others at our local and answer some of these for yourrally were very representative of this selves. Maybe, however, you are waitcountry. I would say more representaing for your taxes to be reduced when tive than he and our other Republicans we finally start winning. Take a deep in Congress and of those in his adminis- breath, now hold it, hold it, hold it. But tration. please breathe when you must. No govSecond, just look at the videos from ernment is worth it. the rallies all over America. These signs were handmade, some designed by the • Reed Harris is a longtime Rochelleindividuals attending who were very area resident and community volunteer.

COMMUNITY VIEWS Reed Harris

ON THE COVER

HOW ARE WE DOING?

The Illinois Route 64 and Illinois Route 251 intersection currently is a four-way stop. Route 251 previously was four lanes at the intersection before a recent restriping project reduced the lanes to two. Jeff Helfrich

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3 OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025 OCL Jeff Helfrich

The Illinois Department of Transportation has proposed a roundabout for the Illinois Route 251 and Illinois Route 64 intersection in Ogle County north of Rochelle, according to IDOT’s website. The proposal for the intersection is a modern roundabout with a 20-foot-wide circulating single lane.

IDOT proposes roundabout for Illinois Route 251, Route 64 intersection near Rochelle Future phases of the potential project currently are funded

engineering and environmental study of the intersection to examine suitable traffic control alternatives that address the safety and mobility of traffic currently experienced at the intersection. The intersection is a four-way stop. Illinois Route 251 previously was four By JEFF HELFRICH lanes at the intersection before a recent jhelfrich@shawmedia.com restriping project reduced the lanes to two. The Illinois Department of TransIDOT will hold a virtual public portation has proposed a roundabout meeting on the topic from 5 to 6 p.m. for the Illinois Route 251 and Illinois Nov. 18. The meeting link is https:// Route 64 intersection in Ogle County cmtengr.zoom.us/j/83204340396. north of Rochelle, according to IDOT’s Phase two of the project will involve website. preparing contract bid plans and phase IDOT has undertaken a preliminary three would be construction.

All three phases currently are funded, according to the IDOT website. No timeline was listed on the website. The proposal for the intersection is a modern roundabout with a 20-footwide circulating single lane. The center of the roundabout and long splitter islands would deflect entering vehicles approaching the roundabout. A 12-foot-wide concrete truck apron, located just outside of the central island, is proposed. The area would accommodate large trucks, farm equipment and emergency vehicles, providing them with an additional area to maneuver through the circle. Entering

vehicles would yield to traffic circulating counterclockwise in the circle. Lighting around the roundabout would be installed. As the project study progresses, IDOT will periodically update its website to assure that motorists are kept informed of project developments, public involvement opportunities and construction-related activities. Comments can be sent to Region Two Engineer; Attn: Studies and Plans; Illinois Department of Transportation, 819 Depot Ave., Dixon, IL 61021-3500. Questions and comments can be submitted online at https://apps1.dot. illinois.gov/WER/?from=40.

City hears public on data center, will hold meeting to utilities such as electricity and water, procure its own power off the market the data center needed more power than City currently working the amount of jobs the data center would and use RMU for billing and delivery. expected in the future, it would have to create, noise issues and what entity The Q&A page said the proposed data pursue a ComEd reconfiguration of with developer, answering would pay for infrastructure costs. center would use up to 50 megawatts of transmission lines, the city said. A petition, titled “Reject plans for a electricity. Rochelle currently has more centers are large users of water, questions from residents data center in Rochelle, Illinois,” had than 90 megawatts of additional electric andData the potential development in

By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com The city of Rochelle has recently seen social media reaction to news of it talking with a developer about a data center potentially locating in Rochelle. Through its Facebook page, the city has responded to questions and concerns raised by residents about the impact of a potential data center, and has scheduled a public meeting on the topic in Rochelle on Nov. 18. That meeting will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at City Hall at 420 N. Sixth St. The meeting will be streamed live on Facebook and YouTube. Resident concerns voiced on social media and at the Rochelle City Council’s Oct. 26 meeting have included impacts

150 signatures as of Oct. 31. “It’s crucial that we take a stand against this proposal and protect our beloved town from unnecessary harm,” Dawn Nance, the petitioner’s organizer, wrote on the site. “The cost savings purported by hosting a data center are overshadowed by the risks and long-term undesired consequences it poses. Our voices, as residents of this town, must be heard and considered by those making these decisions.” The city of Rochelle recently created a “Data Center Q&A” page on its website in an effort to address residents’ concerns. The city has not approved any agreement with any developer or data center. The city owns Rochelle Municipal Utilities, which would see it provide power, water and storm water services to a potential data center, which would

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

Fundraiser for Leaf River Historical Society & Museum

capacity available, according to the page. The proposed data center is not a “mega site” like those commonly seen in national data center developments, such as Meta in DeKalb. The potential data center customer would pay an 11% power distribution surcharge and standard demand charges and may elect to manage their own capacity and transmission costs. RMU’s power rates would not increase due to a potential data center because of long-term power purchase contracts and behind-the-meter generation it has in place, the city said. A data center developer would be required to post a surety or bond to cover any purchased power or infrastructure obligations if it ceased operations or relocated. The data center would see a hard cap on electric use. If

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Rochelle would use 100,000 gallons a day with a closed-loop cooling system to minimize water consumption, the city said. RMU pumps 4-5 million gallons of water per day, with its largest current customer using 1 million gallons per day. A data center’s water use would be capped in a development agreement, the city said. All costs of potential infrastructure and utility improvements would be paid for by the data center developer and enforced by a development agreement with the city. Data centers are only permitted to locate in industrial-zoned areas. The lot under consideration is 75 acres and is currently farmland, the city said. The project would be subject to EPA requirements and the city can apply specific

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LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS The following events are happening at the Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center:

We Offer

Potluck

Tuesday, Nov. 18: There will be a potluck at noon. Bring a dish to pass. Crafts

Thursday, Nov. 20: At 1 p.m., Momentum Health Care will have a free craft for anyone who can join.

Competitive Prices, Often Paying You More! Shaw Local News Network file photo

The Mt. Morris Senior and Community Center is located at 9 E. Front St.

theme for this year is “The Unfinished Madrigal Dinners.” Dinner will be at 6 p.m. Dec. 5 and 6 p.m. Trip Dec. 6 at Stronghold in the Brubaker Wednesday, Dec. 3: There will be another Center. Dinner will be served as well as trip to the Metropolis Performing Arts wassail. Center in Arlington Heights to see “Home When emailing for tickets, provide the for the Holidays: An Evening with Levi day you are coming, the number of people Kreis.” The bus leaves at 10 a.m. and in your group and the names of everyone returns at 6 p.m. Cost is $85 a person. Call in your party. Cost is $25 per ticket. the center at 815-734-6335 to sign up. If you are interested in attending, email zhall@ocusd.net. If you’d prefer to call or Oregon High School madrigal text, the phone number is 815-677-5493. dinners are Dec. 5-6 Reservations close Monday, Dec. 1. Oregon High School’s madrigal dinner –Shaw Local News Network Diamond painting

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Continued from page 4 conditions or restrictions through a development agreement. Any potential noise concerns would be addressed through a development agreement, the city said, including the use of muffling materials to reduce noise. The potential data center would be located in the Lee-Ogle Enterprise Zone and benefit from a 50% tax abatement for six years, as previous local large developments such as Americold, Mighty Vine, Wheatland Tube and CHS Ethanol have. The company name of the data center is not available at this time, and the city currently is working with a developer that would then work to bring a company to Rochelle, the city said. City officials have not been asked to sign non-disclosure agreements regarding the project. It is anticipated that 25-35 full-time jobs would be created by the potential data center, with an average salary of $85,000 per year for the permanent positions. Rochelle already is home to two data centers, Allstate and Northern Trust,

which are smaller than the potential future development. Elsewhere in Ogle County, Byron also may be a potential site for a data center in coming years. The Ogle County Board voted in August 2024 and 2025 to rezone a total of 709 acres around the Byron Nuclear Plant from agricultural to industrial use for Constellation Energy, the plant’s owner. Constellation is considering attracting industrial development such as data centers, which locate near power availability. Rochelle City Manager Jeff Fiegenschuh said Oct. 15 that a development agreement with a potential data center could come before the City Council for a vote in the coming months and if approved, the build would be within three years. The city’s data center information page said the potential project would strengthen RMU’s electric system and generate new local revenues such as property tax, utility tax, rate revenue and “other negotiated fees.” “The data center would have minimal impact on police, fire, and public works services,” according to the city data center page. “It will provide property tax revenue for other taxing districts [schools, parks, social services] without increasing service needs.”

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Antiques & Collectibles

Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center potluck is Nov. 18

Ogle County Sheriff’s Office begins campaign transit or a rideshare service (e.g., Uber, Lyft). • If you host, offer alcohol‑free beverages, and help guests arrange sober transportation. • If you’ve used cannabis, do not drive. Effects can be delayed and impair reaction time and judgment. • If you see an impaired driver on the road, pull over safely and call 911. • Make sure everyone in the vehicle wears a seat belt. It’s your best defense against an impaired driver. This Thanksgiving enforcement effort is supported by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. It aligns with Illinois’ statewide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” “Click It or Ticket” and “It’s Not a Game” campaigns.

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com This Thanksgiving, the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office is joining the Illinois State Police and local partners to keep holiday travel safe. The “Click It or Ticket” and “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement campaigns run from Nov. 21 to Dec. 2. Officers will be looking for seat-belt violations, speeding, distracted driving and impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs, including cannabis. “Thanksgiving brings more vehicles, longer trips, and more festivities,” Sheriff Brian VanVickle said. “Seat belts remain one of the simplest and most effective ways to save your life in a crash. We’re asking every

Alex T. Paschal file photo

This Thanksgiving, the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office is joining the Illinois State Police and local partners to keep holiday travel safe. driver and passenger to buckle up, use cannabis, don’t drive.” every trip, every time – and to make a Plan ahead with these tips: plan for a sober ride before the cele• Before you go out, choose a sober brations begin. If you drink alcohol or driver or plan to use a taxi, public

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

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SENIOR LIFESTYLE

Driving is often associated with independence. The freedom that comes with being a licensed driver is often noted when newly minted motorists get a driver’s license. But the sense of independence that comes with being a licensed driver affects all motorists, including seniors. Many seniors have spent half a century if not longer behind the wheel. That history undoubtedly makes it difficult for aging drivers to relinquish their keys should factors beyond their control begin to jeopardize their ability to drive safely and thus pose a threat to themselves and others. In such instances, family members may need to step in and make difficult decisions for aging relatives in relation to their driving. Before that decision is made, families can keep an eye out for various signs that a loved one might no longer be safe behind the wheel. • Frequent accidents or near misses: The National Institute on Aging notes that aging drivers who are in multiple vehicle crashes or near misses may no longer be safe to drive. Even drivers who are not at fault in a given accident may otherwise have been able to avoid being involved if not for diminished abilities behind the

wheel. The NIA notes that slower reaction time and reflexes are two driving abilities that can diminish over time, and that can increase the chances aging drivers are in an accident. • Vehicle damage: Another sign an aging driver may be experiencing diminishing driving abilities is the presence of new dents or scrapes on a car. The NIA notes that stiff joints and muscles and difficulty seeing are some common age-related health conditions that can affect a driver’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. When such problems begin to appear, drivers may experience difficulty navigating areas like parking lots and narrow streets that do not have ample shoulder space. The results can be vehicle damage like dents or scrapes. • Increase in traffic tickets: The NIA suggests two or more traffic tickets or warnings within the last two years is a sign drivers’ skills are diminishing. • Anxiety about nighttime driving conditions and other motorists: Aging drivers who express anxiety about driving at night may no longer be safe to drive, especially after the sun goes down. Some aging drivers simply stop driving at night, which suggests they might be capable of driving safely during the day. In addition, drivers who have anxiety or make frequent complaints about other drivers’ actions, including their speed and decision-making in regard to actions like lane changes, may be experiencing diminished abilities behind the wheel. There’s no universal age when older drivers should stop driving. But families can keep an eye open for various signs suggesting aging drivers are no longer safe behind the wheel.

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AUCTIONEER DIRECTORY

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

SIGNS AN AGING DRIVER MIGHT NO LONGER BE SAFE BEHIND THE WHEEL

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SENIOR LIFESTYLE

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

Food fuels the body throughout the day, ideally providing the energy people need to make the most of each day. But the foods people eat are more than just fuel. Indeed, a delicious meal is hard to forget, and that underscores how significant a variable flavor can be when people choose the foods they eat. Flavor is certainly important when choosing and preparing meals, but it cannot be the only variable that determines what people eat. That’s true for everyone, and especially notable for seniors. Age-related changes to the body should affect seniors’ approach to diet. The National

Council on Aging notes that metabolism slows as bodies grow older, which means seniors require fewer calories to fuel their daily activities than they needed when they were younger. That’s just one of the many notable things seniors should consider when designing their daily diets. • Plan a well-rounded diet. School children learn the basic food groups as youngsters, and it’s good for seniors to keep those long-ago lessons in mind when planning their daily diets. The American Heart Association notes the importance of incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and proteins into daily diets. In regard to dairy, the AHA advises consuming the equivalent of three cups of low-fat (1 percent) or fat-free dairy each day. When picking a protein source, the AHA identifies eggs, fish, lean meat, legumes, nuts, and poultry as healthy and protein-rich foods. Even polyunsaturated and monounsaturated oils like olive oil and peanut oil can be healthy. • Resolve to read more labels. Aging adults need not study nutrition to identify what they’re putting into their bodies each time they take a bite. The NCOA notes that food labels are useful sources of information that can indicate how much fat, sodium and added sugars are in a given item. Seniors should be especially vigilant when

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trying to avoid foods that contain a lot of added sugars, which can contribute to weight gain. That’s notable given seniors’ naturally slower metabolisms. • Practice portion control. It’s not necessarily the foods seniors eat but how much they eat that can derail their efforts to maintain their overall health. Seniors’ recommended daily calorie intake varies by both gender and activity levels. Guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services notes women 61 and over who are moderately physically active should consume roughly 1,800 calories per day, while those living an active lifestyle are advised to eat around 2,000 calories per day. Moderately active men age 66 and older are advised to eat 2,400 calories per day, while active men between the ages of 61 and 75 should aim for 2,600 calories per day. When reading food labels, pay attention to calories per serving, as that can act as a useful guide to control portions. The National Institute on Aging recognizes it can be hard to control portion sizes when dining out, and recommends seniors share an entrée or order from the appetizers menu when picking their main course. The right daily dietary habits can help seniors live longer, healthier and happier lives, and picking the right foods does not require sacrificing flavor.

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Retirement is often characterized as a carefree time in life when adults who spent years in the workforce get to enjoy the fruits of their labors. But upon retiring, many retirees find themselves fighting boredom. A recent study from Indeed found that, as of March 2022, 3.2 percent of workers who retired a year earlier had already reentered the workforce. No two retirees are the same, and a host of variables, boredom among them, likely compelled recently retired professionals to go back to work. Retirees who like the freedom of not working but are confronting a good bit of boredom can consider these tips to cultivate a new hobby that can help them pass the time in a rewarding and engaging way. • IDENTIFY NEW (OR OLD) INTERESTS. Many retirees discover new passions in retirement, while others turn back the clock and revisit favorite hobbies from their youth. A good way to begin cultivating a new hobby is to jot down a list of activities you always found interesting but never had the time to learn or became too busy to fully invest in. Some seniors hit the links for the first time in retirement, while others return to school to study subjects they find interesting but did not engage with

• CONSIDER LOCALLY BASED RESOURCES. Community parks departments and libraries may offer an array of free or affordable opportunities for seniors to engage with a new hobby. Parks departments may offer anything from cross country skiing tutorials to age-based hiking excursions, while libraries may offer weekly crafting sessions or wellness programs to local residents. In addition to providing fun ways to discover and cultivate a new hobby, programs offered through parks departments and local libraries are great ways to meet fellow retirees.

• PUT YOUR EXPERIENCE TO USE. Retirees with years in their field don’t have to go back during their college years. The options are endless, and to work to make use of their professional expertise. jotting down a list of new or old interests is a great way Contact local youth organizations or outreach to get the ball rolling. programs sponsored by churches, libraries or local law enforcement agencies and offer to share your expertise • EMBRACE NEW WAYS TO ENGAGE A PASSION. with young people. Such opportunities allow retirees Virtual resources like online courses and book clubs to continue to engage with their professions and help conducted over Zoom with fellow readers across the a younger generation of aspiring professionals gain nation and possibly even the globe are a great way to valuable insight into fields they’re interested in. cultivate a new hobby in retirement. Virtual resources can be especially beneficial for seniors with mobility There’s no shortage of ways for seniors to overcome issues. retirement boredom and cultivate rewarding hobbies.

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OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

HOW SENIORS CAN CULTIVATE A NEW HOBBY

SENIOR LIFESTYLE

WHAT SENIORS CAN DO TO SAFEGUARD THEIR MENTAL HEALTH Organization notes older adults are uniquely vulnerable to potential mental health issues. That’s because mental health is shaped by numerous variables, including earlier life experiences and some notable stressors related to aging, such as a decline in functional ability that can cause psychological distress. Seniors also are more likely than others to experience adverse events like the loss of a loved one Mental health has increasingly been noted as a or even a loss of purpose, which can affect anyone key ingredient to an individual health regimen. The upon retirement. Recognition of this vulnerability stigma once assigned to mental health issues has may be enough to compel seniors to seek advice and largely dissipated, and many people now recognize assistance on how to safeguard their mental health that mental health should be just as big a priority as from age-related stressors. physical health. • Take time out if you’re a caregiver. The WHO Seniors may not have come of age in a world where notes that many older adults serve as caregivers for mental health was prioritized, and thanks to that spouses with chronic health conditions, including aging men and women may not recognize where their dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that mental health is suffering and what they can do to studies have found that 70 percent of caregivers combat such problems. Recognition of the importance report feeling stress related to coordination of care, of mental health is a step in the right direction, and while two in three caregivers have difficulty finding seniors also can consider these strategies to safeguard resources and support for their needs. Seniors who their mental health. have taken on caregiving duties for a loved one must • Recognize your vulnerability. The World Health protect their own mental health by taking time out

to care for themselves as well. Work with family members to share responsibilities when caring for a loved one. If family members cannot pitch in, then work with local government agencies to alleviate some of the stress of caregiving. • Make a concerted effort to socialize. A 2025 report from the WHO indicated that roughly one-fourth of all older adults are affected by social isolation and loneliness. Social connection can significantly improve mental health and provide a sense of life satisfaction while improving quality of life. Seniors are urged to prioritize socialization. Many community-based groups, including government offices, run programs designed specifically to facilitate socialization among older residents. Take advantage of such programs whenever possible. Seniors living alone also may want to consider relocating to communities exclusive to people age 55 and over, as such developments typically offer an array of socialization opportunities to residents. Seniors are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues, but older adults can take many steps to safeguard their mental health.

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

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Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is a lifelong processs. Children tend to be so physically active and grow at such a consistent pace that it’s easier for them to consume a high-calorie diet without becoming overweight. That’s generally not the case after adolescence, and it might be particularly difficult for seniors to avoid gaining weight. In a 2020 interview with Tufts Medicine, Jillian Reece, a bariatric dietitian at Tufts Medical Center, noted that a person’s basal metabolic rate slows downs with aging. The basal metabolic rate indicates the rate at which the body uses energy while at rest. As that rate slows down, body weight can increase. But seniors should know they aren’t helpless against nature and Father Time. In fact, there is much aging adults can do to maintain a healthy weight throughout their golden years. • LIMIT PORTION SIZES WHEN EATING. Controlling portion sizes is easier said than done, particularly for seniors who dine out with frequency. When dining out, seniors can order off the appetizer menu instead of ordering an entrée, especially when visiting an establishment known for its hefty portions. At home, pay attention to serving size data on product labeling. If necessary, measure portions when eating foods such as cereal so the

portion you eat reflects the serving size noted on the box. • EAT BREAKFAST EACH MORNING. Seniors who skip breakfast, which may be more likely upon retiring, could be doing their waistlines a notable disservice. A 2017 statement from the American Heart Association noted that several large, long-term, prospective, observational studies have found an association between breakfast consumption and lower risk of obesity. The less structured pattern of retirement living may compel some seniors to skip breakfast, but committing to a morning meal can help keep off extra pounds. • COMMIT TO ROUTINE EXERCISE. Diet can go a long way toward helping seniors maintain a healthy weight. However, diet is not the only area where seniors can help their waistlines. Routine physical activity can help seniors maintain muscle mass and make it easier to be more mobile. Staying mobile can help keep pounds off, as a sedentary lifestyle is one of the more notable risk factors for overweight and obesity. The National Institute on Aging recommends seniors aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. Moderate-intensity aerobic activities are those that raise the heart rate and help seniors break a sweat, such as walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling.

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• MAKE A CONCERTED EFFORT TO REMAIN HYDRATED THROUGHOUT THE DAY. The Cleveland Clinic notes that age-related body composition changes make seniors particularly vulnerable to dehydration. An aging body does not demand water like it once did, so it’s easy for seniors to forget to hydrate because they don’t feel thirsty. But remaining hydrated is important for seniors looking to maintain a healthy weight because dehydration can mimic symptoms of hunger. Seniors may reach for snacks feeling they’re hungry when all they might need is a glass of water to hydrate. A healthy weight can allow seniors to live life to the fullest. Various strategies can help seniors achieve a healthy weight.

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

WHAT SENIORS CAN DO TO MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

SENIOR LIFESTYLE

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One of the primary lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic was how challenging social isolation can be. Social isolation often goes overlooked, but it’s a key contributor to poor mental health. Experts state that it is increasingly important for adults to maintain an active social life as they age. There are many benefits that come from staying engaged and socializing with others. The following is a look at seven ways socialization benefits seniors. 1. Regular social interactions can help older adults avoid depression, anxiety and feelings of isolation, according to Integracare, a senior living company.

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4. Regular social interaction may compel seniors to embrace healthier eating habits. Social events expose seniors to different types of food, which can help them get the nutrients they need to live healthy. 5. Regular socialization can help seniors feel they are needed and have a sense of purpose, which can boost self-esteem. Engaging with others often means contributing to a community, and that can be satisfying. 6. Getting out and interacting with others can serve as an informal wellness check, potentially alerting family and friends to issues that may need attention. 7. Getting outside and interacting with others can open seniors up to new hobbies. Whether that is participating in a new sport or joining a club, there are mental and physical advantages to engaging socially. Socialization is an important factor in seniors’ overall wellness, and one that should be discussed along with diet, exercise and illness management.

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By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent

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The Oregon School District 220’s Blackhawk Center was packed Tuesday morning as students paid tribute to veterans thanking them for their military service on Veterans Day. The Veterans Day Assembly included songs by students in each grade level, musical selections by the junior high and high school bands and decorations created in the classrooms. It also allowed for students to step down from the bleachers to give their special veteran a flag and – of course – big hugs. “A special thank you goes out to all of our veterans and their families. We appreciate your dedication and sacrifice to the country that we share,” school officials said in the event program. Soon after that event, several blocks east of the school, the Oregon VFW presented a short program by the Soldiers Memorial on the north lawn of the Ogle County Courthouse Square. VFW Commander Bob Coulter told attendees to do what they can to help living veterans. Held on the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour, the VFW Veterans Day ceremony paid tribute to the exact moment an armistice was signed to end World War I on Nov. 11, 1918. Nov. 11 now is known as Veterans Day after originally being called Armistice Day. Coulter said Veterans Day is held for all veterans whereas Memorial Day is held to honor those who have died. On Tuesday, he asked everyone to try to do more for those who served and curPhotos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network rently are serving. ABOVE: Oregon Elementary School students salute as they sing a song for all the branches of the military on Nov. 11, during the Oregon School “There are thousands of veterans living in tents across the country who are District’s Veterans Day Assembly. The event was held Tuesday morning in the Blackhawk Center and also included performances by junior high homeless, let alone all the other home- and high school bands and choir students. BELOW LEFT: A veteran salutes during the OSD 230’s Veterans Day Assembly on Tuesday. less,” Coulter said. “There are several RIGHT: Navy thousands of veterans still in the hospital veteran Matt trying to recuperate from Iraq and Dressman Afghanistan and some from even before received a flag that. and hugs from “Thank somebody for what they’ve his kids Amelia done. You talk about freedom but you and Elijah during can’t buy it. Be thankful for these service the OSD 230’s members regardless of what branch they Veterans Day are in ... they continue to provide us with Assembly on that freedom. Because we have a Constitution that up until this has been Tuesday. He is unbreakable.” seen here with For information about the Oregon his son Elijah. VFW, call 815-732-6851 or visit https:// www.facebook.com/oregonvfwpost8739/

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

OSD 230, VFW pay tribute to veterans

Oregon Rotary Club’s 30th and last Angel Ball on Dec. 6

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Shaw Local News Network file photo

Forreston High School’s Class of 2025 tosses caps into the air after exiting the gym at the end of commencement on May 18.

Forrestville foundation announces Max Wenzel Educational Scholarship SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com Forrestville Valley School Foundation is honored to announce the establishment of the Max Wenzel Educational Scholarship, a monumental gift that will profoundly shape the future of its students for generations to come. In early October, the foundation learned it was the administrator of the fund, established for students graduating from Forreston High School. Starting with the Class of 2026, Wenzel’s gift allows any graduate enrolling in a twoor four-year college or university an equal scholarship allocation for their first academic year. In addition to the news, the district has worked to establish partnerships with Illinois universities to close any cost gap after application of the Max Wenzel Scholarship and other financial aid or merit awards.

The district is finalizing university partner agreements to allow for free tuition and mandatory fees for the first year of attendance for the graduating classes of 2026, 2027 and 2028. Partner universities include Eastern Illinois University, Illinois State University, Northern Illinois University, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, University of Illinois Springfield and Western Illinois University. The scholarship will live for decades, forever impacting Forreston High School graduates. Junior and senior students and their parents are invited to join the announcement and celebration of the gift at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, at Forreston Junior/Senior High School. The event will include an overview of the Max Wenzel Scholarship, information from seven university partners and fun prizes.

The Oregon Rotary Club on Dec. 6 will host what is billed as the 30th and final Angel Ball, a milestone evening marking the club’s long-running gala in support of local causes. For three decades, the Angel Ball has served as one of the most anticipated events in the area – an evening of elegance, fellowship, dining and fundraising that has benefited several key local nonprofits, including Serenity Hospice & Home, the Village of Progress and the Oregon Rotary Foundation. “This event has always been about more than a night out – it’s been about coming together as a community to lift others up,” Club President Kathy Groenhagen said, adding that the final edition will pay tribute to the volunteers, donors and Rotarians who have made the ball possible through the years. The December evening will feature a program of dinner, live music, a silent

and live auction and a retrospective of notable themes and highlights from past Angel Balls. Guests are encouraged to dress in formal or semi-formal attire and arrive ready to celebrate both the legacy and the future of service in Oregon and Ogle County. In choosing to end the Angel Ball, the club said it is responding to evolving community -fundraising landscapes and new opportunities for service. The board indicated that this final gala is not the end of its charitable work, but a transition into new formats of giving back. All proceeds from the event will be distributed to the beneficiary organizations to ensure the spirit of the Angel Ball continues beyond this final night. “We’re proud of what it accomplished – and we’re excited to see how Rotary continues to adapt and find new ways to give back,” said Rotarian Chris Madden, who has chaired the event in years past. As the final evening draws near, the community is encouraged to secure their tickets and join the celebration.

Public meeting to be held Dec. 2 for comprehensive plan update work By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com

Comprehensive plan meeting set

The board resolved to hold a public meeting at Village Hall at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, before its regularly scheduled meeting at 7 p.m. in an effort to update its comprehensive plan. Creston has started the process of updating its outdated comprehensive plan, which includes the future vision for the village including infrastructure, business development, housing and codes. Byro and Elliot have worked with the Ogle County Economic Development Corporation and the University of Illinois Extension on a framework of a plan. The public meeting will allow residents and other Creston entities to provide feedback. The village’s last comprehensive plan was done before 2000, and municipalities typically update them every 10 years. By law, comprehensive plan updates must be done following boundary agreements, and Creston agreed to one with the city of

Photos by Jeff Helfrich

Creston Village Trustees Curt Ward (left) and Reid Elliot participate in a meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Rochelle in recent years. “It needs to be what the village wants,” Elliot said. “It needs to be realistic and what we see in the village’s future.”

Water tower

Village Engineer Kevin Bunge provided an update to the board on ongoing work to install 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 found difficulty hiring an electrician for the project and approved an $11,725 bid for the work. The electric work will be done in coming weeks and will involve new lighting and an electrical box up on the tower. The mixer may not be installed until the spring due to the village needing to apply for an Illinois Environmental Protection Agency permit.

Creston Village Board President Tom Byro participates in a meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 4. installation will need replacing, due to meeting ADA requirements. The top of the village’s sidewalk replacement plan list is work in the area of Depot and South streets, along with Main Street. Byro said he would discuss a budget with Village Treasurer Penny Payton for the initial projects and for each year going forward. Village Trustee Curt Ward estimated that sidewalk replacement on the full length of Main Street could cost $80,000$100,000 or more.

to alleviate rust issues in Creston that would include upsizing four-inch mains, shutoff valve work and hydrant work including removing dead-end lines. The work would likely be the first phase of a multi-phase project. Bunge has theorized in the past that rust issues are likely due to four-inch mains with not enough capacity. Bunge said the work could be done in the winter or spring depending on bids received, and trustees gave him approval to accept winter work proposals if the project could be finished sooner.

Downtown grants

Byro expressed desire during the meeting to see the village apply for grants for infrastructure work in Creston’s downtown after speaking with the OCEDC and hearing about grants that neighboring communities have received. Mt. Morris recently received a $3 million grant to improve its downtown. Sidewalk The Illinois Transportation EnhanceTrustees discussed needed sidewalk ment Program streetscape grant awards replacement in Creston on Tuesday along state and federal funds every two years with a possible sidewalk improvement and covers 80% of projects that improve program with dedicated funds each year. Water line underground infrastructure, roads, sideVillage Trustee Mark Hibshman said Bunge said during the meeting that walks and parking lots. “most of” the sidewalks in Creston need the village would be going out for bids in “I’d like to see us apply for this,” Byro replacement. Any sidewalk that hasn’t the coming days for a water line replace- said. “It’s something I want to keep lookbeen replaced in the village since its ment project on South Street to attempt ing into and pursue.”

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The Creston Village Board of Trustees on Tuesday, Nov. 4, discussed the potential purchase and placement of a digital sign somewhere within Creston in the future. Village President Tom Byro presented trustees with a concept drawing of a 4-foot-by-8-foot digital sign and discussion was held on potential locations for the sign, which would feature information such as planned village events and messages such as hydrant flushing days. Potential locations for the sign include North Main Street, or on Illinois Route 38 on the north or south side. The board resolved to talk to property owners to decide a permanent location. No sign has been bought yet. “We want to do the sign, we just need to determine where,” Village Trustee Reid Elliot said.

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

Creston Village Board discusses desire for digital sign, potential location

2025 Ogle County tentative multiplier announced SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com Ogle County has been issued a tentative property assessment equalization factor of 1.0000, according to David Harris, director of the Illinois Department of Revenue. The property assessment equalization factor, often called the “multiplier,” is the method used to achieve uniform property assessments among counties, as required by law. This equalization is particularly important because some of the state’s 6,600 local taxing districts overlap into two or more counties (e.g., school districts, junior college districts, fire protection districts). If there was no equalization among counties, substantial inequities among taxpayers with comparable properties would result.

State law requires property in Illinois to be assessed at one-third of its market value. Farm property is assessed differently with farm homesites and dwellings subject to regular assessing and equalization procedures. Farmland and farm buildings are assessed according to standards based on productivity. The equalization factor is determined annually for each county by comparing the sales price of individual properties sold over the past three years to the assessed value placed on those properties by the county supervisor of assessments/ county assessor. If the three-year average level of assessment is one-third of market value, the equalization factor will be one (1.0000). If the average level of assessment is greater than one-third of market value, the equalization factor will be

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less than one (1.0000). And if the average level of assessment is less than one-third of market value, the equalization factor will be greater than one (1.0000). Assessments in Ogle County are at 33.27% of market value, based on sales of properties in 2022, 2023, and 2024. The equalization factor currently being assigned is for taxes, 2025 payable in 2026. Last year’s equalization factor for the county was 1.0271. The tentative factor is subject to change if the County Board of Review takes actions which significantly affect the county assessments, or if local officials or others can present data showing that IDOR’s estimates of the average level of assessments in the county should be adjusted. A public hearing on the tentative multiplier will be held

between 20 and 30 days after the tentative factor is published in a newspaper of general circulation within the county. A change in the equalization factor does not mean total property tax bills will increase or decrease. Tax bills are determined by local taxing bodies when they request money each year to provide services to local citizens. If the amount requested by local taxing districts is not greater than the amount received in the previous year, then total property taxes will not increase even if assessments may have increased. The assessed value of an individual property determines what portion of the tax burden a specific taxpayer will assume. That individual’s portion of tax responsibility is not changed by the multiplier.

Christianity and Morality If you are a Christian, how does your Christian religion affect your morals? A person’s morals are the rules by which they live their life. Every religion has a code of conduct. Every country has a set of laws governing its citizen’s conduct, based on an understanding of morality. The Christian understanding of morality, or right and wrong, must come from the Bible. The New Testament, as the primary guide for Christians today, reaffirms the timeless principles of the Ten Commandments, and teaches us how to find peace with God through Jesus Christ. The Bible’s moral code is not subject to the whims of theologians to be interpreted however they please. “No scripture is of any private interpretation” (2 Peter 1:20) God laid out the rules to live by if you want to please Him, and those rules are absolute. If you want to be a Christian, you must obey the Bible. Can a Christian even enjoy life if it means following a bunch of rules? God created people to bring glory to Himself. Just as an engineer builds a complicated robot, and takes pride in programming it to do exactly what he wants, so God created the human race. But God didn’t just make mindless robots; He designed humans to love and to be loved. He also gave His humans the power to choose whether they would love Him and obey Him, or not. The beauty of love is to be chosen. God loves us and so He wills our good. He deeply desires our happiness and fulfillment. The moral code of the Bible is God’s design (or you might say, programming) for the successful operation of the human race. The moral code is God’s gift to humanity! The moral laws of God are fixed in cause and effect, just like the laws of nature. You cannot disregard the laws of gravity and inertia, and escape injury for long. You cannot disregard the Bible, and find fulfillment in life. When we study the Bible and obey it, we will find true happiness, and answers for the questions of life. As Christians, let us show others that God’s way is the best way!

SM-ST2284900

Brought to you by: Little Prairie Mennonite Church Pastor Norm Reinford (779) 861-3700 littleprairieministries@upwardmail.com

17 OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

New site for Essential Infusions Plus celebrated ‘We want this to grow and be a good part of [Rochelle’s] community’ By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Tuesday, Nov. 4, for the new location of Essential Infusions Plus in Rochelle. The business is owned by Rochelle native Angie McGough, a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner. Essential Infusions Plus has locations in Rochelle, Freeport, Byron and Rockford and its services include hormone therapy, medical weight loss, vitamin IVs/injections, botox, anti-aging and more. Now located at 310 N. Main St. in Rochelle, its previous Rochelle location was 604 N. Main St. McGough has 20 years of healthcare experience. She turned to the func-

tional side of health care during the COVID-19 pandemic and grew her business. “Our goal is to really help your body do what it was created to do,” McGough said. “We do more natural, functional regenerative procedures. We offer esthetics, but we offer a lot more of the regenerative esthetics versus fillers. We offer vitamin IVs and injections that can really help you supplement and optimize things.” Essential Infusions Plus has a new salt sauna to help people detox. It also offers a skin analyzer, regenerative therapies, ozone therapy and biologic injections. “I travel across the country to do these procedures, and they’re here in Rochelle,” McGough said. “I think you guys should be really proud of that. We have patients flying across the country to come here for these procedures and that can help other businesses. We want this to grow and be a good part of

Essential Infusions Plus owner Angie McGough speaks Tuesday, Nov. 4, at the ribbon-cutting for her business’ new location at 310 N. Main St., Rochelle. the community. Thanks to my team for all the work they do.” The ribbon-cutting was hosted by the Rochelle Chamber of Commerce and the city of Rochelle.

Along with McGough, speakers included Chamber Board Vice President Ashley Bick and Rochelle Mayor John Bearrows. Bick thanked McGough for keeping her business in Rochelle and said she’s excited to see it grow. Bearrows said Essential Infusions Plus moving into a larger space with easier access is a positive sign and offered the Chamber and city’s help in the future. “We want to be partners for you and see your business thrive,” Bearrows said. “We saw that during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Chamber and the city worked together with businesses that were hurt during the pandemic and had to close. We hope we never see that again. That’s what we’re here for, to help with marketing through the Chamber and programs through the city. Thank you for staying in Rochelle and moving to your new location. Welcome to Rochelle again.”

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Photos by Jeff Helfrich

On Tuesday, Nov. 4, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for the new location of Essential Infusions Plus at 310 N. Main St. in Rochelle.

Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

AREA CHURCH DIRECTORY BYRON

FORRESTON

MOUNT MORRIS

ALL SAINTS LUTHERAN CHURCH

FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH

624 Luther Drive, Byron, IL 61010 815-234-5277 Pastor: Vicar Michelle Wandersee All are welcome to weekly Sunday Worship services at 9:00am Holy Communion is served every Sunday. A Contemporary Style Worship with our Praise Team is on every 3rd Sunday of the month. A recording of each Sunday’s service is available on our Facebook page:

Sunday School for ages 3 through 5th grade students are held at 10:15am each Sunday. Middle School Confirmation class for 6th grade - 8th grade students are held at 10:15 am each Sunday. Both classes begin in September and end in May.

ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH

308 E. Brayton Rd., Mt. Morris IL | Phone: 815-734-6354 | Rev. Josh

301 N 4th St, Oregon, IL 61061 - Phone 815-732-7383 - Fr. Bernard Sehr;

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Ehrler Worship Services: Saturday 5:30 PM, Sunday 9:30 AM. Sunday

Mailing/Office Address: 8 81 Mongan Dr, Oregon IL 61061

School 10:45AM www.trinitymmil.net| facebook.com/tlcmm

Weekend Masses: Sat. 4:30 pm, Sun. 8:30 am and 6:00 pm

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

Adult Bible Studies are held on Tuesday evenings at 7:00 pm and on Wednesdays at 1:30 pm.

LEAF RIVER BAPTIST CHURCH

Visit our website for more information or email us at allsaints624@ hotmail.com.

CORNERSTONE FAMILY CHURCH 205 N. Peru St., Byron 815-234-8737 www.cornerstonefamily.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. Romeo

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TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH MT. MORRIS

402 2nd Avenue, Forreston, IL 61030, Phone 815-938-3203Pastor Scott Ralston Sunday Worship 9:00 am; Sunday School 10:00 am

All Saints Lutheran Church and on our website: http://www.allsaintsbyron. org

“Mio” Pavino 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

OREGON

OREGON LIGHTHOUSE UNITED METHODIST

each of month. Lighthouse will lite up your life!

Website: stpaulnalcoregonil.weebly.com

LITTLE PRAIRIE MENNONITE CHURCH

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. Associate Pastor: John Foss 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.

MT. MORRIS CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN Allure of Pinecrest Grove Community Building (S. McKendrie Ave. and Evergreen Lane) Mt. Morris, IL. 61054 Phone 815-734-4573 Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. followed by fellowship time and Christian education. Worship service available online, call or email for details. Email: mtmorriscob@gmail.com

11:30 a.m. Worship

POLO

Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Morning, 7:00 PM 1st & 3rd Sunday

ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH

Evening, 7:30 PM 2nd & 4th Wednesday Evenings of the Month.

Massie Sunday School for all ages, 9:30 am; Worship - 10:30 am Tuesday

KINGS

10:15 a.m. Fellowship/Education hours

1831 S Harmony Rd. Oregon, IL 61061

leafriver.church

immanuel-lindenwood.org (for sermons, events, etc.) 16060 E. Lindenwood Road, Lindenwood, IL 61049 815-393-4500 • office@immanuel-lindenwood.org Sunday Mornings: Divine Service @ 9am; Food & Fellowship @ 10am; Sunday School and Adult Bible Study @ 10:30am Food Bank: 1st and 3rd Saturdays, 9am-11am Pastor: Rev. Dr. Matthew Rosebrock pastor@immanuel-lindenwood.org

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH, NALC 114 S. 5th St. Oregon, IL Phone: (815) 732-2367

www.oregoncog.com Pastor Michael Hoffman; Associate Pastor Nathan

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH – LCMS

www.stmaryop.org stmary-oregon@rockforddiocese.org

Worship at 11:00 a.m. Holy Communion celebrated the first Sunday of

office@leafriverbaptist.org

LINDENWOOD

by appt. Eucharistic Adoration: Wed. 9-10 am

lighthouseUMC@yahoo.com

Pastor: Norman Reinford 779-861-3700

104 E. 3rd St., Leaf River, IL 61047 - Phone: 815-345-3038; Pastor Cherie Quillman Mailing Adress: PO Box 126, Leaf River, IL 61047 Worship Service: Sunday at 10:30 am Brewed Connections - Free Coffee with Devotion, 2nd & 4th Tuesdays www.leafriverumc.org leafriverumc@gmail.com

Communion Service: Tues. 8:30 am; Reconciliation: Sat 3:30-4:00 pm or

Pastor Dave Rogula 4962 S. Daysville Rd., Oregon, IL 61061

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

LEAF RIVER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Weekday Masses: Mon. 12:05 pm, Wed. and Fri. 8:30 am

OREGON CHURCH OF GOD 860 W. Oregon Trail Road, Oregon, IL. 61061 Phone: 815-732-6847

- Prayer Group - 9:30 am; Women’s Bible Study -

211 N Franklin Ave, Polo IL 61064-Phone 815-732-7383 -Fr. Bernard Sehr Mailing/Office Address: 881 Mongan Dr, Oregon IL 61061 Weekend Masses: Sun. 10:15 am Daily Masses: Tues. and Sat. 8:30 am Reconciliation: Sat. 9:00-9:30 am or by appt. www.stmaryop.org stmary-oregon@roclcforddiocese.org

STILLMAN VALLEY

1:00 pm Thursday Men’s Group - 7:00 pm

RED BRICK CHURCH OF STILLMAN VALLEY

OREGON FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 505 Hill St. Oregon, IL 61061 Phone: 732-2642

Pastor Rev. Dr. Chris Brauns | Associate Pastor David Bogner

Pastor: David Snow “A Christ-centered, Bible-believing, family-oriented

207 W Roosevelt Road (Rte 72), Stillman Valley.

ministry.” Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Sunday Morning Service 10:45 a.m.;

815-645-2526 | www.theredbrickchurch.org

Sunday Afternoon Service 1:15 p.m.; Wednesday Night Bible Study 6:30

Sunday: Worship at 9:00 and 10:30 am. Sunday School at 9:00 am.

p.m.

Wednesday: AWANA (Sept – April) from 6:00 to 7:30 pm.

OREGON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Men, women, youth Bible Studies throughout the year. See website for all activities or contact the church office.

KISHWAUKEE COMMUNITY EVANGELICAL PRESBYTERIAN 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

8195 Kishwaukee Road, Stillman Valley, IL 61084 / 815-965-1940

10 am Worship & Children’s Sunday School

Rev. Nick Garner, Pastor

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

www.kishchurch.org Sunday Schedule: Discipleship Hour 8:45 AM, Coffee Fellowship 9:30 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

and fun environment where kids can learn about who God is and who

Bible Studies, Youth Group, Bread of Life Food Pantry

they are because of Him.

Please visit website for more information or contact the church office M-F

Encounter Youth Ministry for kids in 7th-12th grade meets on Sunday

9am-2pm

afternoons. Please see our Facebook page for scheduled dates and times.

WINNEBAGO

For complete ministry info and events, visit us online at Riverstonecc.com or on Facebook at facebook.com/RiverStoneChristianChurch

ST. BRIDE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 902 Mongan Drive (at the top of Liberty Hill), Oregon, IL 732-7211 -Office Rev. Eldred George Webpage: saintbrides.org • E-mail:saint.bride.church@gmail.com Worship Services: Sunday 10 am Holy Communion with Hymns Christian Education Available

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. Sunday School: 9am Pastor Phil Thompson Phone: 815-335-2609. Email: middlecreekchurch@gmail.com Coffee & Chat (Everyone is welcome!): Tuesdays 8-10am Visit our Facebook page or YouTube channel for online worship

Canopy formation world record attempt: ‘We believe we’ll be able to do it’ By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com

Photos provided by Keith Paulsen

Skydiver Keith Paulsen of Morrison will represent Chicagoland Skydiving Center in Rochelle as he travels to Lake Wales, Florida, this month to attempt to break the world record for canopy formation. the formation, and slower parachutes will be on the outside to ensure stability. “It’s going to be a big deal,” Paulsen said. ”It could stand for a long time if we break it. The current record has stood a long time – 18 years. It was set in the same place. This has taken a lot of preliminary work. All I’ve done in the past five years is this discipline. We open our parachutes right away and fly together. I’m 65, so this is my last chance to be a part of something like this.” Canopy-formation skydiving is a unique discipline within the sport, and Paulsen travels all over to find other people to do it with. His travels have included Michigan, Wisconsin, Canada, Portugal, California, Florida and more. Canopy-formation skydiving also has been done at CSC in Rochelle. The discipline is very technique-specific, Paulsen said, with skydivers flying up to a formation and getting a hold of it to fly together. Skydivers in other disciplines are usually taught to stay away from other parachutes to avoid collisions. Paulsen did his first canopy formation jump in 1986.

From Nov. 16 to 23, skydivers from around the world will gather to attempt to break the standing world record of 100 people in parachute formation in flight, set in 2007.

“It’s been a lifetime of working up to a record like this,” Paulsen said. “To be at the top level for this world record takes a lot of dedication and focus on the discipline. I’ve been focusing on it for the past few years. It’s always fun, and it can be a lot of work, but it’s worth it.” The idea of achieving the record is what excites Paulsen most about his trip to Florida. When he saw the current record set 18 years ago, he wanted to break it. Paulsen said canopy-formation skydivers have fun and help each other as

they work toward a common goal. He’s honored to be among a group of 131 skydivers from all over the world as they try to leave a legacy. Paulsen has made more than 5,000 skydiving jumps in his career. “Skydiving is a relief from the day to day,” Paulsen said. “You don’t think about things like paying bills or doing chores when you’re up in the air and enjoying the view. Some of the views are spectacular. The people are the biggest part of it. They’re just awesome, wonderful people to have fun with.”

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Skydiver Keith Paulsen of Morrison will represent Chicagoland Skydiving Center in Rochelle as he travels to Lake Wales, Florida, this month to attempt to break the world record for most skydivers in a canopy formation. From Nov. 16 to 23, skydivers from around the world will gather to try to break the standing world record of 100 people in parachute formation in flight, set in 2007. Paulsen will be in a group of 131 elite skydivers who aim to build a new formation of 107 to 109 skydivers, marking a historic milestone in the sport. If successful, the record could stand for years to come, Paulsen said. Paulsen is a regular skydiver at Chicagoland Skydiving Center in Rochelle. He previously was an instructor at the business that calls the Rochelle Municipal Airport home. He’s spent recent years training at CSC and across the U.S. with jumpers from all over the world to prepare for the record attempt. Athletes from 19 countries have been invited. “We will work our way up to the record,” Paulsen said. “I will be in the second wave of skydivers. The top group will get out at 19,500 feet and will wear oxygen. Four passes will be made with eight airplanes all together. “A lot of hard work has gone into it by the organizers. We’ve all been practicing. We’ve done a lot of camps, and we’ve been graded on our performances. I made the cut and was invited. You have to keep and earn your spot in the pool.” Paulsen, 65, has been skydiving for the past 40 years. He recalls seeing skydivers at a baseball game when he was a child, which sparked his interest in the sport. He did his first jump when he was 24 years old. The group trying to break the record is optimistic about its chances, Paulsen said. Organizers have done analytics on timing and skydivers’ skill grades. Bigger parachutes will be located on top of

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

Morrison skydiver to be part of world record try, repping Rochelle’s Chicagoland Skydiving Center

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

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OGLE COUNTY MARRIAGE LICENSES FOR OCTOBER 2025 • Joshua Holder and Linda Siakakaba, both of Stillman Valley. • Patrick Beavers and Natasha Hagemann, both of Mt. Morris. • Jacob Edwards and Samantha Kratochvil, both of Rochelle. • John Lydon of Byron and Sarah Hise of Plainfield. • Matthew Lenox and Brianna Doyle, both of Dixon. • Timothy Harriman and Nicole Molnar, both of Byron. • Lane Isley and Madlyn McNees, both of Memphis, Tennessee. • Jeffery Smith and Tracey Oliver both of Polo. • Gerardo Mendez Juanz and Maria Palacios Rosales, both of Rochelle. • Chase Stoddard and Darcy Franklin, both of Winnebago. • Matthew Cascio and Heidi Deininger, both of Oregon. • Jared Breitbach and Haley Mizner, both of Oregon. • Christopher Near and Carrie Lempke, both of Dixon. • Brent Boehle and Sarah Flammang, both of DeKalb. • Declan Olson and Jessamyn Ericksen, both of Rochelle.

–Shaw Local News Network

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com A Small Business Bingo event will be held this year at Flight Deck Bar & Grill at 1207 W. Gurler Road in Rochelle to benefit area nonprofits. The upcoming event will be Tuesday, Dec. 2, from 6-8 p.m. to raise money for Shining Star Children’s Advocacy Center and HOPE of Ogle County. Doors will open at 5 p.m. The cost is $15 per person for 10 rounds of bingo. Raffles also are available for an additional cost. Food and drinks will be available. Small Business Bingo was started in 2023 by AP Massage Therapy Owner Ashley Patrick, who came up with the idea of bingo nights in the community with prizes donated by local businesses to raise money for area nonprofits. Small Business Bingo has distributed a total of $36,540 to local nonprofits since its

Photo provided by Ashley Patrick

A Small Business Bingo events will be held on Dec. 2 at Flight Deck Bar & Grill at 1207 W. Gurler Road in Rochelle to benefit area nonprofits. inception in 2023. The first Small Business event held on Nov. 6 raised a record-breaking $5,710 for Community Action Network and the VFW. So come out Tuesday, Dec. 2 and see if this record can be broken for area nonprofits.

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OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

• Brody Grobe of Polo and Katlyn Reber of Oregon. • Austin Smith and Lauren McQuen, both of Pekin. • Chad Bradford and Katelyn Trenholm, both of Davis. • Logan Ruiz and Lauryn Cayo, both of Belvidere. • Joseph Clark and Madisyn Hobbs, both of Dixon. • Ryan Dyson and Monica Mon, both of Polo. • Marcus Samuel and Christina Alcocer, both of Aurora. • Ryan Bowlds and Whitney Bignell, both of Minooka. • Jon Hunley and Sherry Warning, both of Rochelle. • Robert Bailey and Francisca Vela, both of Aurora. • Ronnie Stewart III of Bloomington and Rebekah Ijams of Minonk. • Jordan Gilmour and Destiny Kahly, both of Oregon. • Vaughn Greenwood of Sterling and Cassandra Higgins of Dixon. • Andrew Tyner of DeKalb and Raewyn Sumeraj of Naperville. • Travis Wood and Jasmine Engle, both of Forreston. • Branden Gordon and Angelica Strutzenberg, both of Dixon.

Small Business Bingo event 21 set for Dec. 2 in Rochelle

OCL

Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

Oregon mom pleads guilty to suffocating 7-year-old son in 2021 Sarah Safranek sentenced to 35 years in prison By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent Sarah Safranek sobbed softly as she pleaded guilty Wednesday, Nov. 12, to suffocating her 7-year-old son, Nathaniel Burton, in their Oregon home in February 2021. Safranek, 38, admitted to Judge Anthony Peska that she was responsible for the death of Nathaniel, pleading guilty to first-degree murder. She was then sentenced to 35 years in prison. She was charged with five counts of first-degree murder and one count of aggravated battery after being arrested April 21, 2021 and indicted May 4, 2021. She pleaded not guilty May 6, 2021 and had numerous court hearings as she remained in custody in the Ogle County Jail as her case proceeded through the court system. On Wednesday, she pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree murder and the other counts were dismissed. “As to this count today how do you want to plead?,” asked Peska. “Guilty,” Safranek replied through tears as she sat next to her attorney, Ogle County Public Defender Kathleen Isley. At the start of Wednesday’s afternoon hearing, Isley requested a 402 conference - a pre-trial meeting between the judge and attorneys to discuss a potential resolution to a criminal case. “Is it your desire for me to participate in this conference,” Peska asked Safranek, to which she replied “yes”. When the hearing reconvened, Isley told Peska she believed a proposed plea had been reached in which Safranek would plead guilty to one count and in return be sentenced to 35 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections with credit for 1,666 days already served. Isley asked the court to request mental health treatment be provided to Safranek as she serves her sentence in prison. “Do you want to accept [those terms]?” asked Peska.

Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

Sarah Safranek leaves her sentencing hearing Wednesday, Nov. 12, after pleading guilty to murdering her son, Nathaniel Burton, in 2021. She was sentenced to 35 years in prison. In the backround is Safranek’s attorney, Ogle County Public Defender Kathleen Isley. “Yeah,” Safranek replied while choking back tears. Peska said Safranek would have to serve 100% of the sentence. He said he could ask for – but not guarantee – mental health treatment or services while she is incarcerated. “I can’t order the IDOC to do that,” Peska told Safranek. “But I have no problem signing that order.” Peska asked Safranek if she wanted to say anything else before the hearing ended. “No,” she said softly while shaking her head. “I think this is an appropriate sen-

tence,” Peska said. “You are very emotional right now. There is no greater gift than having a child and having that taken away is the greatest hurt. Living with this is going to be a very large burden for you to bear.” Ogle County Assistant State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten said Nathaniel’s father and grandmother had been informed of the plea agreement prior to Wednesday’s hearing. After the hearing, Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock said Safranek would not be eligible for release until 2056. “Based on the the defendant’s accep-

tance of responsibility and in consideration of prior court rulings we felt this was the best way,” Rock said. “This term of imprisonment shall be served at 100 percent and is followed by three years of mandatory supervised release.” During a 2024 hearing, former Judge John Redington agreed to allow as evidence an Aug. 5, 2020, online search titled “I’ve had thoughts about killing my kid. Thoughts of killing my children – anyone else have them?” Prosecutors argued that Safranek made those searches in addition to

See Safranek on page 23

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Mt. Morris Legion donates $250 to All Hands on Deck project Mt. Morris American Legion Post 143 made a $250 donation to “All Hands On Deck,” an outreach project of the Evangelical Free Church of Mt. Morris. The community-wide project is sending care packages to all 350 sailors aboard the USS Fitzgerald, deployed to the Middle East since June 2. Lt. Logan Murphy, command chaplain of the ship, served as the associate pastor of EFCMM before joining the U.S. Navy in 2023. He and his family lived in Mt. Morris from 2018 to 2023. “We are grateful for this generous donation to ‘All Hands On Deck,’ ” said Joyce Long, the volunteer coordinator of the project. “This will go a long way toward purchasing items to include in the care packages as well as defer shipping costs.” The American Legion is dedicated to the well-being of all veterans and active-duty servicemen and servicewomen. “We appreciate the opportunity to lend a hand to this very worthwhile project,” Post Commander Stan Ballard said. The care packages will be shipped by

• SAFRANEK

Continued from page 22 another, made Nov. 1, 2020, that asked “What is it called when a parent is obsessed with the thought of killing their child?” Redington also allowed Feb. 17, 2021, searches of: “How much does cremation of a child cost?” and “How long does an investigation take after a child passes away?” But he reserved ruling on some of the other motions made by both the prosecution and defense. During a June 17, 2024, hearing, four prosecution witnesses testified that Nathaniel, before his death, told them that he was being abused by his mother. Defense attorneys countered that the statements were hearsay and should not be allowed as evidence. Safanek’s jury trial was removed from the court calendar in July 2024 after prosecutors argued that some rulings made by Redington limited the evidence they wanted to present to jurors. They argued that the court’s decision

Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

Ogle County Chief Public Defender Kathleen Isley (left) returns to her desk on Wednesday, Nov. 12, after giving Sarah Safranek’s signed guilty plea to Judge Anthony Peska (right). Safranek was sentenced to 35 years in prison after pleading guilty to the 2021 first degree murder of her 7-year-old son, Nathaniel Burton. had “impaired” their ability to proceed with first-degree murder charges. 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.

Oct. 17. They are expected to arrive before Christmas, bringing with them 350 handwritten thank-you notes and a bit of holiday cheer to all sailors aboard the ship.

Serenity Hospice & Home Workshop ‘Cooking for One’ is Nov. 19

Serenity Hospice & Home will host a Cooking for One Workshop for those grieving a loss at 1:30 p.m. Nov. 19 at the Ogle County Farm Bureau, 421 W. Pines Road in Oregon. After a loss, the kitchen can feel like one of the hardest places to be, filled with memories, empty chairs, and routines that no longer feel the same. Join Serenity for a free, hands-on grief support workshop in partnership with Lynnie’s Kitchen, supported by the Ogle County Community 708 Board. Together, participants will explore practical ways to find comfort and creativity in the kitchen while learning how to cook nourishing meals for one. You’ll gain tools to help navigate the grocery store and bring a little joy back to the table. Call 815-732-2499 to sign up. – Shaw Local News Network

On Wednesday, Rock thanked the Oregon Police Department for its work on the case. “I would like to thank the Oregon Police Department for their hard work on this case. This agreement was reached after consultation with the victim’s family and after taking into consideration the prior court’s evidentiary ruling,” Rock said. 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 Shaw Local 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.

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Lydia Anderson was named the September 2025 Student of the Month at Polo Community High School. She received a scholarship from the Polo Schools Foundation for her efforts. She is the daughter of Nate and Amy Anderson. Anderson participates in cheerleading, Student Council, Spanish Club, FCCLA, BLIND, Varsity Club and National Honor Society. After high school, she plans to pursue a Lydia Anderson career as a pediatrician. Anderson answered questions relating to her future and school experience upon winning the award. What class do you find really engaging and why? I really enjoy Environments Health (or any science class) with Mrs. Cole. I think her teaching style is very clear, and I enjoy challenging myself with difficult coursework. What are your career and post-graduation plans? Post graduation I plan to attend Sauk

Valley Community College for two years with the Impact Program, then I plan to transfer to a larger university and work toward becoming a pediatrician. As far as travel, I would like to visit every national park in the U.S. What are your two favorite extracurricular, volunteer or community activities you participate in? I joined cheer my sophomore year and I love it! I love being involved with the school and being a part of a team. I also enjoy volunteering with people with special needs. I have volunteered at special camps as a counselor for the past few summers and have found it very rewarding! It is something I would like to continue doing in the future. Please share a moment, group event or activity at school that was meaningful or memorable. Joining cheerleading has been very impactful for me. My confidence has grown, I feel more involved in the school, and I have built many friendships. Being a part of the cheer squad has created so many positive memories for me. What is your hope for the future? I hope to be able to achieve my dream of being a doctor and to be able to help as many people as I can.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

Anderson named September Student of the Month at Polo High School

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

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24 OBITUARIES JANICE “JAN” DECKER Born: April 5, 1931 in Sandwich, IL Died: November 7, 2025 in Naperville IL Janice “Jan” Decker, age 94, of Naperville, Illinois, formerly of Oregon, Illinois died on November 7, 2025 at Sunrise Senior Living Naperville North. Jan was born on April 5, 1931, in Sandwich, Illinois, the daughter of Harold and Emma (Sawyer) Bjelland. She grew up in Millbrook and graduated from Yorkville High School before attending the University

PENNY O’ROURKE

of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. During her first year of college, she met Jackson “Jack” Decker, who had returned from serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. They were married on April 9, 1950 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Leland, Illinois, and made their first home in Dixon, Illinois, where their sons, Marc and Eric, were born. They later moved to Oregon, Illinois, where they raised their family and became deeply involved in the community. Jan and Jack were among the founding members of St. Bride’s Episcopal Church in Oregon. She was an exceptionally talented organist and vocalist, remembered for the beauty of her music and her dedication to the life of the church. Jan was preceded in death

planning, writing grants, and overseeing the construction of the current Library. However, Born: June 23, 1950 she was the proudest of her two sons, Timothy Died: November 8, 2025 II and Ryan. Penny was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Penny O’Rourke, Tim, of almost 55 years Oregon Illinois: Sons: Oregon, Illinois, was Timothy (Tammie) O’Rourke II Leaf River, born in Maquoketa, Illinois; Ryan (Ginger) O’Rourke Oregon, Illinois: Iowa on June 23, 1950 Granddaughters: Krystal O’Rourke/Patrick to John and Doris (Weasmer) Thompson. Schumaker Oregon, Illinois; Rebekha (Kyle) She passed away under Janssen Byron, Illinois; Grey Helen O’Rourke the careful supervision Oregon, Illinois: Great Granddaughters: Taliyha Janssen Byron, Illinois; Miyha Janssen Byron, of Oregon Living and Rehabilitation Center Illinois: Great Grandson Tripp Janssen Byron, and Serenity Hospice Care in Oregon, Illinois Illinois: Sister Patricia (Lyle) Haakenson Davon November 8, 2025. As a young child Pen was an avid reader. Therefore, it is only fitting enport, Iowa: Brother John (Dawn) Thompson Riverdale, Iowa. There will be a private family she became a Librarian after graduation from celebration at A Better Place Forests, in the Savanna Community High School, June 1968; married Tim in Savanna, Illinois, January 1971; Rock River Memorial, north of Oregon, Illinois at a later date. The family wishes to thank graduated from NIU in DeKalb, Illinois, June the staff of Oregon Living and Rehabilita1972; she became the Director of the Byron, tion Center for their loving care of Penny. A Illinois Library from June 1974 until July 2015. In addition to her job, she raised her two sons, memorial fund has been established for trees obtained a Master’s Degree in Library Science and a bench at Oregon Park West. Please send contributions to: Tim O’Rourke 406 Lillemor from NIU, involved with the Illinois State Lane Oregon IL 61061. The family is being Library in training Librarians, and helped Tim assisted with arrangements by Farrell-Holwith all his teaching and coaching activities. Penny helped the Byron City Library move from land-Gale Funeral Home. Please visit www. the one room Culture Center into a District Li- farrellhollandgale.com to leave a condolence brary. One of her many accomplishments was or memory of Penny.

by her parents; her husband Jack (2008); Jack’s parents, Roy and Ruth Decker; and her siblings Howard, Robert, and Andrew Bjelland, Eleanor Harms and Doris Rubenking. She will always be loved and remembered by her sons, Marc (Mary) Decker of Aurora, Illinois, and Eric (Anne) Decker of Shipton-under-Wychwood, England; grandchildren Jenna (Kevin) Kelly of Ponte Vedra, Florida; Jordan (Jen) Decker of Winnetka, Illinois; and Grace (Damian) Holland of Witney, England; and great-grandchildren, Declan and Deirdre Kelly, Sophie and Hadley Decker, and Leo and Maia Holland; and eight nieces and nephews. Her family wishes to extend special thanks to the compassionate staff at Sunrise Senior Living Naperville North and

Residential Hospice for their loving care and support. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, November 14, 2025, at St. Bride’s Episcopal Church, Oregon, Illinois with a brief visitation in the church foyer prior beginning at 10:00 am until time of service. Father Eldred George will officiate the service. Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorial donations may be made to St. Bride’s Episcopal Church, PO Box 223, Oregon, IL 61061.

Online Only Personal Property Auction Multi-Location Estate Auction Milledgeville, IL 61051 & Lanark, IL 61046 Thursday, November 20th 8AM to Sunday, November 23rd 5PM This is an Online Auction. Please visit https://aandtauctionservices.hibid.com/ for full sale viewing beginning 11/19/2025. Pictures will be uploaded prior to that date as they are available.

Personal Property: Selling items from several estates–Household items; glassware; dishes & collectibles; sports memorabilia; large Barbie Doll collection; beer signs & memorabilia; vintage & modern furniture; some antiques; vintage local memorabilia; jewelry–including gold & silver; collectible & vintage coins; tools; yard/garden items; fishing supplies; and so much more! Everything must go–something for everyone! Item Viewing: Items will be available for online viewing @ 8am on 11/19/2025. 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: SEPARATE pick-up times will be held for EACH location–specific pick-up information for items will be distributed to winning bidders upon completion of the auction. Alternate pick-up times are available due to Thanksgiving the following week–communicate with the auctioneer! 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

Alley Oop

Pickles

Hagar the Horrible

Barney Google and Snuffy Smith

JANRIC CLASSIC SUDOKU

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

Garfield

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Daddy Daze

Wizard of Id

HOW TO PLAY Each row, column and set of 3-by-3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 through 9 without repetition.

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 16 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

WORD FIND

26 OGLE COUNTY LIFE

Winged wonders

Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

Solution: 16 Letters

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Albatross Avian Bush Butcherbird Clip Coot Crane Crow Cuckooshrike Cuttlefish Dodo Dove

Eggs Egret Emu Erne Fruit Hawk Hens Insects Kite Koel Lark Myna

Nightjar Noisy Owls Pardalote Peewee Perch Pigeon Pipit Raven Rhea Robin Scrub

Seed Soar Sociable Species Swallow Teal Tree Wagtail Wing Wonga

Solution: Beautiful plumage

Speed Bump

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LEGAL NOTICES Assumed Name Publication Notice Public Notice is hereby given that on October 27, 2025, a certificate was filed in the County Ogle Clerk's Office setting forth the names and post office address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as: Simple Intentions 982 Etnyre Terrace Oregon, IL 61061 Dated: October 27, 2025. s/Laura J. Cook Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk

Nov. 3, 10, 17, 2025 NOTICE Rochelle The Wildlife Conservation Club will hold its annual election of directors at the December 18th meeting. The election will take place at the Dugdale Lodge at 3501 S Sweeney Road, Rochelle IL. Voting will take place between 7 and 9 p.m. Any members are able to attend and are welcome to address the board. There are three director and four officer positions up for re-election. The Rochelle Wildlife Conservation Club is a non for profit focused on conservation, education and community. For information to contact any of the directors call 815732-2808 or see the website. Nov. 17, 2025

NOTICE The Rochelle Wildlife ConservaLEGALClub NOTICES tion will hold its annual election of directors at the December 18th meeting. The election will take place at the Dugdale Lodge at 3501 S Sweeney Road, Rochelle IL. Voting will take place between 7 and 9 p.m. Any members are able to attend and are welcome to address the board. There are three director and four officer positions up for re-election. The Rochelle Wildlife Conservation Club is a non for profit focused on conservation, education and community. For information to contact any of the directors call 815732-2808 or see the website. Nov. 17, 2025

Public Notice K&P Self Storage 1563 Kysor Dr. Byron, IL 61010 Pursuant to the Landlord's Lien Provision, in paragraph #11 in the agreement rental between KCH Enterprises DBA K & P Self Storage, Landlord, and Jonathan Ruiz unit #52. These items will be held in possession for ten (10) days, at which time they will be disposed of unless the tenant pays the landlord in full, in accordance with the Self Storage Facilities Act. Must be paid in full by November 22, 2025.

Public Notice K&P Self Storage 1563 Kysor Dr. Byron, IL 61010 Pursuant to the Landlord's Lien Provision, in paragraph #11 in the rental agreement between KCH EnLEGAL NOTICES terprises DBA K & P Self Storage, Landlord, and Jonathan Ruiz unit #52. These items will be held in possession for ten (10) days, at which time they will be disposed of unless the tenant pays the landlord in full, in accordance with the Self Storage Facilities Act. Must be paid in full by November 22, 2025. Nov. 10, 17, 2025

Be prepared before the next power outage.

AUCTIONS

Ogle County, IL

REAL ESTATE / FARMLAND AUCTION Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025 at 11:00 AM Sale to be held at: Charles D. Bertolet Foundation 103 W. 2nd St Leaf River, IL 61047

SELLING IN TWO TRACTS OPEN TENANCY FOR 2026

Section 21 Maryland Township, Ogle County, IL 142.352 Surveyed Acres Tract 1) 42.544 House, Buildings & Farmland 2-Story House in Country with Timber Tract 2) 99.808 Farmland Only

Nov. 3, 10, 17, 2025

Nov. 10, 17, 2025

For complete listing of survey, sale bill, maps, tax info, and terms & conditions, etc. visit

Receive a free 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase* - valued at $535.

For Information Contact: Lenny Bryson - Auctioneer Ph: 815-946-4120

Call 844-377-3452 to schedule your free quote!

www.lennybrysonauctioneer.com

Owner, Vaida Yelinek Estate Kenneth Lingbeck, Executor Attorney, Dave Smith Ph: 815-732-6124

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Availability Monday - Saturday Hours Will Vary Must be willing to travel between branches & work on call. For details, contact Samantha at: 815-946-3660 - or - email: samantha.harazin@bacu.org

Assumed Name Publication Notice Public Notice is hereby given that on October 27, 2025, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County Clerk's Office setEGAL OTICES L N ting forth the names and post office address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as: Simple Intentions 982 Etnyre Terrace Oregon, IL 61061 Dated: October 27, 2025. s/Laura J. Cook Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk

27 OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

CLASSIFIED

NOTICE The Rochelle Wildlife Conservation Club will hold its annual election of directors at the December 18th meeting. The election will take place at the Dugdale Lodge at 3501 S Sweeney Road, Rochelle IL. Voting will take place between 7 and 9 p.m. Any members are able to attend and are welcome to address the board. There are three director and four officer positions up for re-election. The Rochelle Wildlife Conservation Club NOTICES isLEGAL a non for profit focused on conservation, education community. and For information to contact any of the directors call 815732-2808 or see the website. Nov. 17, 2025

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

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By EDDIE CARIFIO ecarifio@shawmedia.com

against Western Illinois at the start of last year and the most against an FCS team since a 55-14 win against Akron on Oct. 17, 2023. It was the second-highest point total allowed by the Minutemen this season (0-10, 0-6). “I think our players felt it,” Hammock said. “They worked really hard at practice and continued to do the things we asked them to do. I really appreciate the hard work and the effort the players and coaches have put into this to make sure we continue to try to play football the way we know how to.” NIU scored touchdowns on the next six drives. Macon had four of them as NIU built up a 31-0 halftime lead. Macon scored on a 1-yard run at the end of the first half, capping a 13-play drive set up when Lance Ingold sacked quarterback Brandon Rose and forced a fumble and Dasean Dixon recovered. The Huskies opened the second half with the ball, scoring on a 36-yard run by Macon. Macon came out of the game on the next NIU drive. Davidson led a two-play scoring drive, finding Gary Givens III

for a 31-yard touchdown and a 45-0 lead. Macon attempted four passes, completing three of them for 73 yards. He had a touchdown pass to Elijah Porter from 67 yards. He also ran 12 times for 98 yards and three touchdowns. NIU finished with 433 yards of total offense and rushed for 318, both season highs. Chavon Wright ran 12 times for 86 yards and a touchdown. Laz Rogers ran 12 times for 60 yards. It was also a huge game for the defense against the worst scoring offense in the country. A late field goal prevented the first NIU shutout since a 24-0 win against Western Michigan on November 24, 2023. It matched the lowest point total for the Minutemen this year, set in a 21-3 loss to Western Michigan. “The offense went on the field, did what they had to do. The defense went on the field, did what we had to do,” said Jacob Finley, who led the Huskies with 14 tackles. “We played a great game together. Going off each other, going off the offense’s energy and the offense going off the defense’s energy.”

Playoff game area prep football fans have wished for is here It’s finally here. The game that area high school football fans had earmarked since the season began. Byron versus Immaculate Conception Catholic Prep of Elmhurst at 2 p.m. Saturday in Byron. Both teams know what is at stake. It was four years ago that the Tigers stunned ICC with a 15-14 comeback win on their way to the Class 3A state title. Sandwiched around that was a 7-0 win by ICC in 2017 and a 35-0 victory in 2022. Coming from the rugged Chicago Catholic League, the Knights have won four state titles under coach Bill Krefft and are 28-2 against public schools in the playoffs. Other than Byron, the only other public school to hang a loss on them was Richmond Burton, which could be waiting in the semifinal for the winner. Under Jeff Boyer, Byron is a public school rarity in that it has a winning playoff record (5-4) against the pri-

SPORTS VIEWS Andy Colbert vates. In winning six state titles, Mike Lalor of Stillman Valley has a 9-7 record against them. As much as many of us complain about the competitive disparity between public and privates, we sure have been treated to some scintillating games with Byron and Stillman Valley against the “evil empire.” There will be drama played out Saturday at Byron, just like there was last year in Lombard. Realizing my limitations as a football evaluator, I cannot offer any predictions, especially with such different styles of ball and no common opponents. Here’s what I do know watching

numerous area schools against the Chicago suburbs. There is a more disciplined brand of football around here. Because of the wide swath of population, there is more athleticism, speed and skill around Chicago. Coaching is coaching. Both Byron and ICC have great staffs. There’s even former NFL players coaching on each team with Sean Considine and Matt Bowen. Both have sons who should play pivotal roles. Senior Caden Considine will be the biggest star on the field and the one most capable of being a game changer. As a freshman, it was a long run against Reed Custer that turned the tide in a game that was getting away from the Tigers early on. Two years ago, he stymied a potential Montini game-winning drive with an interception. Against the proficient passing game of ICC, that kind of defense will be needed.

It is critical for Byron to play smart – it has a history of doing so – and exert its physical presence. Another huge asset is an experienced quarterback in Andrew Talbert, who might be as shifty as anyone ICC has seen. It also may take awhile for ICC to become accustomed to the running game Byron employs. Make no mistake about it. ICC is very talented and hungry to win a state title after missing the playoffs last year. After playing much larger schools, it won’t be fazed one bit about coming into Byron as most other schools are. After being on the state cross country beat last weekend, I excitedly look forward to being in Byron to cover this game on what looks like a beautiful November day.

• Andy Colbert is a sports writer for Shaw Local covering high school sports in Ogle County.

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Jalen Macon’s first career start was one to remember. Macon ran for three touchdowns, threw for one and helped NIU roll past UMass 45-3 on Wednesday in Amherst, Massachusetts, in the team’s final Mid-American Conference road game. “I was just trying to get into the flow of things, really,” Macon said. “I wanted to get the running backs going, using that game plan. Then that started getting me going with my legs.” Macon got the start in place of Josh Holst, who was injured against Toledo last week. Macon also jumped ahead of true freshman Brady Davidson, who made two starts earlier this year. Macon has spent the past couple of seasons competing with Holst for the starting quarterback job during the offseason. He hurt the thumb on his throwing hand earlier this season and had been used sparingly, mostly in running situations this year. “His thumb is still getting back to

where it needs to be,” NIU coach Thomas Hammock said. “I thought pregame he threw the ball well. He provides another element from an offensive perspective. They have to defend the quarterback. He’s a true guy that can throw and run and opens things up for everyone else.” Macon said he suspected after the Toledo game he may be starting after Hammock texted him, asking about his thumb. “I kind of had some thoughts about what that was leading to,” Macon said. “It wasn’t until the next day or whatnot when we got into the meeting. ... [Quinn Sanders, offensive coordinator] had a talk with us and he let me know then it would be this week.” The Huskies (3-7 overall, 2-4 MAC) scored on their first seven drives of the game. They settled for a field goal after starting on their own 25 thanks to a blocked punt by true freshman Kimar Nelson. They scored more points Wednesday than they had in any two games combined this season. It was the most points they scored in a game since a 54-15 win

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

Jalen Macon leads NIU’s biggest offensive performance of season in 45-3 win at UMass

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

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Polo moves on to 8-man playoff semis Polo junior running back Mercer Mumford made a statement with 165 yards and three touchdowns in the Marcos’ 46-14 victory

in an Illinois 8-Man Football Association quarterfinal game against St. Anne on Saturday, Nov. 8 at Polo.

Photos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

TOP LEFT: Polo’s Eli Perez (left) and Mercer Mumford celebrate a score against St. Anne on Nov. 8 during an I8FA playoff game at Polo High School. The Marcos won, 46-14, to advance to the quarterfinals. TOP RIGHT: Polo’s JT Stephenson escapes from St. Anne’s Raymon Grant for a gain. ABOVE: Polo’s Wyatt Plachno (75) recovers a fumble against St. Anne on Saturday at Polo High School. LEFT: Polo’s Damon Rowe (left) makes a hit on St. Anne’s Grant Pomaranski to knock the ball loose on a pass play.

Marcos score 46 straight points in quarterfinal victory over Cardinals By TY REYNOLDS for Shaw local News Network

Photos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

Polo’s JT Stephenson runs with the ball against St. Anne during an I8FA playoff game on Nov. 8 at Polo High School. “We have great young men that want to come and win. They did their best, but we made lots of mistakes and Polo’s a hell of a program,” St. Anne coach Alan Rood said. “We could never get back the momentum, and they kept it rolling. They capitalized, and that’s how you win the game.” St. Anne took the opening kickoff 36 yards to the Polo 29-yard line, but came up empty after an 11-play drive took the Cardinals inside the 10-yard line. But on the Marcos’ second play, the wet ball slipped out of Mumford’s hands, and St. Anne recovered at the 16. Four plays later, Pomaranski hit Trevor Van Pelt for a 9-yard touchdown pass on fourth-and-3, and the Cardinals led 6-0 eight minutes into the game. Mumford and the Marcos shook it off. Mumford covered 70 yards on the next two plays, scoring on a 44-yard sprint for an 8-6 lead just 23 seconds later. Polo then forced consecutive three-and-out possessions and scored on short touchdown runs after both of them. “Same thing as last week, just that next-play mentality,” Stephenson said. “If you worry about the last play, it’s going to kill the next one. We came out strong and just kept going.” Damon Rowe forced a fumble and Wyatt Plachno recovered on St. Anne’s next drive. Polo cashed in again for a

Polo’s Mercer Mumford (right) battles for yardage as St. Anne’s Grant Pomaranski tries to bring him down during an I8FA playoff contest on Nov. 8 at Polo High School. The Marcos won the game, 46-14, to advance to the next round.

30-6 lead with 2:05 left before halftime. After three incomplete passes by St. Anne, the Marcos got another chance before the break and capitalized. Stephenson scampered out of bounds with four seconds left after a 31-yard run and then hit Mumford for a touchdown on a wheel route as time expired for a 38-6 halftime lead. Polo went 65 yards in six plays to open the second half. Stephenson capped it with a 15-yard TD run and a 46-6 lead to set the running clock in motion. “We’ve had a great season, but we came up short today, and it’s just unfortunate that we don’t get to keep playing,” Rood said. “We thought we could,

and you meet a team like this, boy, they’re a team to be reckoned with. I think they’ve got a chance [to win it all]. Props to them.” Polo advanced to the I8FA semifinals for the sixth straight season and will take on South Fork this weekend. Polo is seeking its first trip to the state championship game since back-to-back titles in 2019 and 2021. “It’s a great feeling. We’ve made it there every year we’ve been in 8-man, and we wanted to keep the streak alive,” Mumford said. “We’ve been there, we know the challenge that’s there, the hype around the game, and I think we’re ready.”

OCL

After missing last week with an injury, Mercer Mumford made his presence felt early and often for Polo in its Illinois 8-Man Football Association quarterfinal against St. Anne on a soggy Saturday afternoon at Polo. The junior running back lost a fumble on his first carry of the game, but bounced back in a big way with 165 yards and three touchdowns in the Marcos’ 46-14 victory. “It feels great to be out here. I missed last week, and that kind of sucked, but I was happy to hear the news that I could play today,” said Mumford, who was cleared to play on his injured right shoulder by a medical trainer Friday afternoon. “At the start of the game, I was a little nervous. I didn’t really want to take a shot to that shoulder. But once I started going, I thought, ‘I can do this, I can take a hit, take a shot to it, I’m fully healed, let’s go.’ ” Mumford and senior quarterback JT Stephenson provided a powerful 1-2 punch. Stephenson ran for 170 yards and two scores, and connected with Mumford on a 26-yard touchdown pass on the final play of the first half as Polo (10-1) scored 46 straight points after falling behind 6-0. “It’s amazing to have multiple guys making plays, and makes a huge difference. Having different weapons is where it’s at,” Stephenson said. “The holes were wide open, and our line did great. Just an amazing job all day.” Defensively, Polo held St. Anne (9-2) to eight yards rushing, and the rainy, windy weather wasn’t conducive to the Cardinals’ preferred aerial attack. Grant Pomaranski threw for 100 yards and two touchdowns on 9-for-24 passing, but 69 of that came in the second half when St. Anne was trailing by 40. “Our weakest part of our game is our pass defense, and they’re a really good passing team, but we were able to zone in on that, work on it in practice this week, and really focus on that today,” Mumford said. “I thought we did pretty well. Our DBs did a really good job covering their guys, and our D-line stopped them in their run.”

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, November 17, 2025

Polo pounds St. Anne in 8-man playoffs

SPORTS

TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY 1975: Pittsburgh’s Tony Dorsett rushes for 303 yards, 1 TD in win over Notre Dame. 2013: Jimmie Johnson becomes a 6th-time champion in NASCAR. Monday, November 17, 2025

Polo’s JT Stephenson (right) battles for yards against St. Anne’s Grant Pomaranski during I8FA playoff action on Nov. 8 at Polo High School. Photo by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

A STIFF-ARM TO SEMIFINALS

ercer Mumford’s 165 yards and 3 TDs lead the Marcos to a 46-14 victory M over St. Anne in the Illinois 8-Man Football Association quarterfinals / 30, 31