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President Trump, immigrants, and the behavioral immune system
President Trump’s language is plain and clear when he speaks of immigrants. They’re criminals, rapists, drug dealers, murderers. Foreign governments have sent them to us from their prisons and mental institutions. They’re poisonous snakes, robbing Americans of public benefits and jobs.
He’s made these claims hundreds of times, according to the Marshall Project, at themarshallproject.org. Their factchecks indicate that all are misleading at best and more often simply false. Crime rates for immigrants, legal and otherwise, are, for example, far lower than for native-born Americans.
But statistics sometimes lose when they’re up against human nature. Distrust and fear of strangers is strong among us Homo sapiens, as well as many other animals. We can trace it in part to the prehistoric past, as cognitive scientist Mark Schaller explained in the Dec. 12, 2011, issue of the British journal, Royal Society.
We have since the earliest times felt disgust toward feces, rotten food and anything else that could expose us to dangerous viruses and other germs, and have instinctively avoided them. Likewise for strangers from outside the community. They could carry new diseases to which local people had no immunity, and they might not follow local customs for cleanliness and disease prevention.
People who are vulnerable to disease, or at least think they are, are likely to be especially fearful of outsiders. It happens to pregnant women during their first three months, when their immune systems weaken to avoid mistakenly attacking the fetus. Surveys reveal heightened feelings of xenophobia, which dictionaries define as “the fear or hatred of strangers or foreigners or of anything foreign or
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strange,” during this time.
The behavioral immune system, as scientists call it, errs on the side of caution. It reacts against people who don’t really present health hazards as well as those who do, crossing over from reasonable carefulness to bigotry and xenophobia. President Trump capitalizes on this when he talks about immigrants.
He appeals to our sense of disgust for rotten meat, feces and other pollutants when he says that immigrants are poisoning the nation’s blood, have bad genes, and eat dogs and cats. He pulls on the same feelings when he compares them with Hannibal Lecter and his fondness for human meat. Calling them animals, criminals and mentally ill magnifies our sense of how different and therefore how dangerous, they are.
The president and his allies multiply the persuasive power of these claims by relentlessly repeating them. Scientists call it the Illusory truth effect. Aumyo Hassan and Sarah J. Barber at cognitiveresearchjournal.springeropen.com on May 13, 2021, reported on their research, and that of others, revealing that the more often people hear a statement, the more likely they are to believe it, whether it’s true or not.
We can, once we’ve become convinced that immigrants are enemies who are less than fully human, justify treating them in ways we would otherwise oppose as un-American. Denial of due process, racial profiling and inhumane detention conditions can now
seem necessary, even desirable.
Mr. Schaller doesn’t claim that our instinctive fear of disease is the only influence on our attitudes toward immigrants. Our customs, beliefs and experiences also play a critical part. They can intensify our natural wariness toward outsiders or, instead, encourage an equally natural curiosity and attraction to them.
A balanced view avoids going to an extreme in either direction. It realizes the benefits as well as the risks of immigration. The president’s language represents, instead, a deep hostility toward immigration and immigrants, as seen in his reaction to the recent attack on two national guard members in Washington, D.C.
Mr. Schaller cites evidence that the behavioral immune system no longer serves as an effective defense against disease. The president has nevertheless found it to be a persuasive political strategy with many Americans – but not all. A Pew Research survey, at pewresearch.org on June 17, 2025, reveals that majorities oppose many components of his immigration policy, such as workplace raids and suspension of most applications for asylum.
Most Americans aren’t persuaded by the president’s talk of pollution, disease and disgust. They realize that immigrants are an important part of a healthy economy and society. This presents Democrats with an opportunity to claim the middle ground by offering a moderate alternative to the president’s anti-immigrant policies, one that balances the benefits of immigration with effective controls.
• Lowell Harp is a retired school psychologistwhoservedschooldistricts in Ogle County. For previous columns, follow him on Facebook.
will be Wednesday, Dec. 10. The concert begins at 7 p.m. in the OHS Music Room.
The proposal for the Route 251 and Route 64 intersection is a modern roundabout with a 20-foot-wide circulating single lane. The center and long splitter islands would deflect entering vehicles approaching the roundabout. Photo provided by IDOT
The high school band, choir, jazz band and madrigals will perform.
– Shaw Local News Network
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Lowell Harp
IDOT details plans for $2M proposed roundabout just north of Rochelle
The state Route 251, Route 64 intersection has been a safety concern, according to Tuesday’s presentation
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
Ogle County residents on Nov. 18 were able to get a glimpse at the Illinois Department of Transportation’s plans regarding a proposed roundabout for the state Route 251 and state Route 64 intersection north of Rochelle.
The plans were shared Tuesday night, Dec. 2 during a public online meeting led by IDOT Program Development Engineer Michael Kuehn, IDOT Project Manager and Geometrics Engineer Rob Bates, and Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc. Project Manager Andrew Schlichting.
IDOT has undertaken a preliminary
engineering and environmental study of the intersection to examine suitable traffic control alternatives that address the safety and mobility of traffic cur -
rently experienced at the intersection.
“This intersection has been a safety concern for some time,” Schlichting said. “The recent restriping step is a
temporary step to try to improve safety until we can work through the entire process and get a more permanent solution implemented. IDOT is studying this intersection because of the crash history. This intersection has seen twice the rate of injury crashes statewide. It’s the combination of two high-speed routes and right-angle crashes that are the cause of injuries.”
The intersection currently is a fourway stop. Illinois Route 251 previously was four lanes at the intersection before the recent restriping project reduced the lanes to two.
The proposal for the intersection is a modern roundabout with a 20-foot-wide 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
on page 4
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, IDOT’s website said.
Image provided by IDOT
Shown is crash history data at the intersection of Illinois Route 251 and Illinois Route 64. See RoundaBout
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. Each entry to the roundabout will have a yield sign.
Phase two of the project will involve preparing contract bid plans and phase three would be construction.
All three phases currently are funded. The total project is estimated to cost $2.05 million, with the bid for the work to be awarded in November 2026.
Construction would begin in the spring of 2027 and be completed by the end of summer 2027. The project could take shorter or longer depending on whether traffic is allowed through the area or a detour is put into place.
Illinois Route 251 and Illinois Route 64 carry about 5,000 vehicles per day. Due to crash concerns, rumble strips and flashers were installed at the intersection in the past before the recent restriping.
The intersection saw 26 crashes, 13 injuries and one death from 2015 to 2024. It saw 13 crashes, five injuries and one death from 2020-2024, the meeting’s presentation said.
61% of the total crashes were angle crashes, 62% of the accidents were property damage, 15% were possible injury, 15% were non-incapacitating injury and 8% were fatal.
Schlichting said potentially installing signals at the intersection would not improve safety the way a roundabout would. Roundabouts result in an 82% reduction in fatal and injury crashes over a traffic signal, according to a Federal Highway Administration study cited during the meeting.
“We understand that people have concerns about roundabouts being unnecessary or confusing,” Schlichting said. “Their potential for saving lives is just too significant to ignore.”
The proposed roundabout would be about 150 feet in diameter. The narrowest part between two curbs anywhere on the roundabout would be 24 feet, the width of two lanes on the highway, Schlichting said.
The meeting showed a concept video of semi trucks and farm equipment moving through the intersection.
IDOT has found no potential impacts of the change so far that would delay the project. IDOT will need to purchase some private property for right of way for the roundabout, less than one acre.
IDOT is evaluating potential detours of traffic through the construction. Illinois Route 251 traffic would be detoured
to Interstate 39, and Illinois Route 64 traffic likely would be detoured to Illinois Route 72.
With a full closure, the construction would take two months. With traffic
during construction, it likely would take all of summer 2027.
Construction would be done in the summer with spring planting and fall harvest operations in mind.
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Shown is the right of way that the Illinois Department of Transportation would have to acquire for a proposed roundabout project at the intersection of Illinois Route 251 and Illinois Route 64.
20th annual 2-Ton Thanksgiving Food Drive in Rochelle
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The 20th annual Two-Ton Thanksgiving Food Drive in Rochelle, hosted by 102.3 The Coyote, SuperHits 93.5, and Prescott Brothers Ford, set records this year with more food and monetary donations than ever.
On Thursday, Nov. 20, dozens of local businesses, organizations and residents contributed hundreds of pounds of nonperishable food and more than $30,000 in cash donations.
On Thursday, Nov. 20, dozens of local businesses, organizations and residents contributed hundreds of pounds of nonperishable food and more than $30,000 in cash donations to the Two-Ton Thanksgiving Food Drive in Rochelle.
The Coyote and SuperHits owner Gary Petersen expressed gratitude for the support, saying, “A big thank you to all the sponsors that support our TwoTon Food Drive every year. This event started long before I was here, and Prescott Brothers Ford has done an outstanding job taking the lead over the past five years. Every little donation helps a lot.”
Rochelle Christian Food Pantry Manager TyAnne Unger called the drive “a wonderful asset for our community. There aren’t a lot of other places that do this, and we are always so blessed with
the food we receive.”
Prescott Brothers Ford opened its showroom for 11 hours and featured a new Ford Ranger to be filled with donations.
“It’s crazy. Over four pallets of food
were dropped off today, stacked higher than I’ve ever seen,” General Sales Manager Chad Young said.
“We’re always amazed by the generosity of our community and our sponsors,” Kris Wexell, program director and operations manager for The Coyote and SuperHits 93.5, said. “Every year, they step up and make a huge difference, and this food drive was no exception.”
The more than $30,000 collected will allow the Rochelle Area Christian Food Pantry to purchase food at rates far below retail prices, stretching the impact of each donation. Unger said demand continues to grow, noting the pantry served 744 families last month, double the previous year.
Frozen turkeys, canned goods, pasta and other essentials collected during the drive will help stock shelves and support families across Ogle County this holiday season.
Road crews worked through Thanksgiving weekend clearing snow, battling wind for travelers
By EARLEEN HINTON
Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Old Man Winter delivered Saturday, Nov. 29, as he dropped close to a foot of snow across the region, launching road and highway crews into action during the Thanksgiving weekend.
Ogle County Highway Engineer Jeremy A. Ciesiel said early weather forecasts helped his department plan for the storm.
“Saturday’s snowstorm was nice along the lines that it was predicted well in advance, the prediction was accurate and many people and organizations altered their travel plans and activities ahead of the storm,” Ciesiel said. “I would like to thank the residents of Ogle County for limiting their travel during the storm. The fewer vehicles on the roadways during inclement weather, the better.”
Heavy snow coupled with wind made clearing the roads more difficult for
Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
Two Ogle County Highway Department snowplows head east on Pines Road Nov. 30, en route to the garage on state Route 2, south of Oregon, after a long day of clearing county roads. State, county and township trucks were busy over the weekend clearing almost 12 inches of snow that fell on Saturday.
crews throughout the day.
“Saturday was a challenge due to the constant snow and wind. This resulted in the roads being snow covered even
shortly after being cleared by the plows,” Ciesiel said. “Even though the snowfall died down overnight, the winds picked up, resulting in substantial drifts
across the highways. Thankfully, the sun came out on Sunday, the temperature rose and the wind died down. These improved conditions allowed us to finally clear most of the county highways.”
In Oregon, Public Works Director Bill Covell said his crew started prepping for the storm five days ahead of its predicted onset.
“We started preparing for the storm on Monday (Nov. 24),” Covell said. “Salt was ordered, all plows were installed and serviced, all equipment was refueled and we began planning for labor.
“On Wednesday, we had a quick meeting with the city manager, police and Public Works to make sure we were all on the same page. Friday night, we pre-salted the roads to keep them from icing up.”
Covell’s crew started plowing early Saturday morning.
See TRAvELERS on page 10
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An employee of Oregon’s Public Works department clears snow from sidewalks Nov. 29 in the city’s downtown. The Oregon Chamber of Commerce’s Candlelight Walk was rescheduled to Dec. 6 due to the snow storm.
TRAVELERS
“We started plowing at 2 a.m. and quit at 8 p.m. because we had to wait for the odd/even parking to change (the 16-hour maximum had been reached). We were back in at 1 a.m. Sunday and plowed until 1 p.m. … then came back in at 8 p.m. to clean up the parking stalls.”
The storm was the first of the season for road crews and their equipment.
“As with the start of any season, we did have a couple mechanical issues. Thankfully, these were minor and resulted in minimal delays. We now have a small window to get everything back working ahead of the next forecasted snow,” Ciesiel said.
Covell said his department battled some major mechanical issues.
“We experienced three truck issues/ breakdowns. At one point, all we had were small trucks to plow. Two of the trucks were fixed, but we were down one truck for the entire snowstorm,” Covell said.
statewide mutual aid system that is available to all public works agencies to request equipment.
Through IPWMAN, hundreds of Illinois member agencies work together to find mutual aid and support during natural or man-made disasters by coordinating personnel and resources for those who require assistance.
“Luckily, two of the trucks were fixed before we had to finalize emergency help,” Covell said.
Both Ciesiel and Covell praised their crews for battling the wind and snow over a holiday weekend.
“I want to thank our crew for altering their holiday weekend plans to keep the roads in Ogle County passable for the traveling public,” Ciesiel said.
“The guys did a fantastic job, especially with all the variables thrown at them. We also had two employees experiencing their first-ever municipal plowing, and it was during a winter storm. Both employees did a tremendous job,” Covell said.
Covell said the storm also impacted the sewage treatment plant.
“Like always, Scott [Pennington] was amazing and took care of all the obstacles himself,” Covell said. Continued from page 7
He said he reached out to the Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network, a
Ogle County groups land Community Foundation of Northern Ill. grants
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois recently announced the recipients of Community Grants for the 2025 program cycle: $1.63 million granted to 91 organizations in support of projects, programs and events benefiting the people of Boone, Ogle, Stephenson and Winnebago counties.
The grants were awarded in eight focus areas: Arts & Humanities; Basic Needs & Compassionate Support; Career Pathways; Complementary Education; Equity, Dignity, & Respect; Health; Sustainable Communities; and Youth & Families.
From the stage to the classroom, from the doctor’s office to the riverfront, and at all points in between, the projects funded by Community Grants help build a more vibrant region, according to a news release.
“The people of Northern Illinois consistently demonstrate a deep spirit of generosity and a shared commitment to building a stronger, more vibrant future for all,” James Patterson, CFNIL president, said. “We are profoundly grateful for the donors whose vision and generosity make this work possible, and for the nonprofit partners whose dedication brings that vision to life each day.
“It is an honor for CFNIL to help con-
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Author, educator Bill Massey talks at Oregon Lions Club meeting
The Oregon Lions Club recently hosted its 1-D central zone meeting.
Special speaker, author and educator Bill Massey from North Carolina was Zoomed in to present to the group. He has been blind for about eight years and shared several experiences he has had with white cane training and Leader Dog as well as the events that Lions host for the blind, including a putt putt golf tournament and a fishing trip. Massey has had life-changing experiences with Meta AI glasses and was more than happy to share that with the group.
nect donors and nonprofits in ways that strengthen our entire region. The ongoing impact we see throughout Northern Illinois is a testament to the generosity of thousands of donors, the commitment of hundreds of volunteers, and the exceptional efforts of our nonprofit grantees.”
The 2025 Community Grants Program cycle continues CFNIL’s 71-year commitment to investment in Northern Illinois through grantmaking.
Ogle County organizations that received grants are:
Arts & Humanities: Coliseum Museum of Art, Antiques & AmericanaMoveable Steps for Stage Access, $8,372. The Arc of Winnebago, Boone and Ogle counties - Project Art, $28,750. Village of Mt. Morris - 2026 Mt. Morris Jamboree Free Concerts, $5,750.
Career Pathways: United Way of Ogle County - Fueling Imaginations. The Dolly Parton Imagination Library for Ogle County, $11,252.
Equity Dignity, & Respect: Farmworker and Landscaper Advocacy Project - Empowering Low-Wage Youth and Families Through Culturally Responsive Support, $34,500.
Sustainable Communities: Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County - Habitat Housing Solutions 2026: Impacting Futures, $5,750. Mt. Morris Fire Foundation - NFP Mount Morris Fire Department Training Room Equipment, $20,000.
NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE FOR SAUK VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT NO.
506
I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy increase for Community College District No. 506 (Sauk Valley Community College), Counties of Bureau, Carroll, Henry, Lee, Ogle and Whiteside and State of Illinois for 2025 will be held on December 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Sauk Valley Community College, 173 IL RT 2, Dixon, Illinois, 61021.
Any person desiring to appear at the public hearing and present testimony to the taxing district may contact: Peggy Eshleman, Assistant to President & Board, Email: peggy. eshleman@svcc.edu, Phone: (815) 835-6311.
II. The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $8,496,707. The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $9,071,250. This represents a 6.76% increase over the previous year.
The club also shared all it has been doing to help local communities including food boxes, donations to the American Legion, VFW, grade school library and Leader Dog, along with sponsorship for the Honor Flight.
Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center plans potluck & singalong
The Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center will have a Christmas Potluck and singalong at Noon, Tuesday, Dec. 9. Local musicians that play at the monthly jam session will be playing holiday favorites. There will not be a regular jam session in December. – Shaw Local News Network
III. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2024 were $2,008,391. The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2025 are $1,997,606. This represents a 0.54% decrease over the previous year.
IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $10,505,098. The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $11,068,856. This represents a 5.37% increase over the previous year.
THE BENEFITS OF GETTING YOUR FLU SHOT
Cooler temperatures bring many things, including the arrival of fun and festive holidays. But flu season also kicks into high gear between the months of December and February.
Although flu season runs from October to May, a combination of factors during the chilliest months of winter, such as increased time indoors in close proximity to others who may be ill, tends to escalate the rates of flu infection. Also, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says cold, dry conditions make it easier for the virus to spread.
Individuals can take different steps to reduce their risk of contracting the flu, which includes frequent handwashing, keeping a distance from others who are sick and eating a healthy diet to help boost the immune system. Getting an annual flu shot is another notable and highly beneficial strategy to beat the flu.
REDUCES RISK OF GETTING THE FLU
The primary reason to get a flu shot is to train the body’s immune system to recognize and fight off the most common strains of influenza anticipated in a given year. During seasons when the shot is a good match, individuals who get it can reduce their risk of flu contraction by 40 to 60 percent.
LESSENS SEVERITY OF THE FLU
For those who do get the flu, being vaccinated means the illness is likely to be less severe than it might be for those who are not vaccinated.
PREVENTS SERIOUS CONDITIONS
The flu can be dangerous to vulnerable populations, but the virus also can lead to health problems like inflammation of the heart or brain, pneumonia, or the worsening of conditions like asthma and diabetes. By getting the vaccine, one can reduce their risk of these serious outcomes.
OFFERS PROTECTION TO PREGNANT WOMEN
Pregnancy increases risks posed by the flu. The flu shot can reduce the chances of flu-related hospitalization for pregnant women. Also, the mother’s antibodies to the flu will be passed to the fetus, helping to protect the newborn baby for several months during a time when the infant is too young to be vaccinated.
PROTECTS KIDS
A flu vaccine can significantly reduce a child’s risk of pediatric intensive care unit admission and even death from the illness.
TIPS TO REDUCE NUTRIENT LOSS WHILE COOKING
It’s not unheard of for people to turn over a healthy leaf at the start of a new year. After a holiday season filled with social engagements and diet-busting meals, it’s no surprise many celebrants view January as a time to right the dietary ship.
Home cooking provides an opportunity for people to gain greater control over what they eat, and it’s well known that certain methods of cooking are healthier than others. But Healthline notes that nutrient content is often altered during cooking. For example, a 2017 study published in the journal Food Science and Biotechnology noted that vitamin C is a water-soluble and temperature-sensitive vitamin, which means it is easily degraded during cooking. As a result, researchers behind the study noted that elevated temperatures and long cooking times have been found to cause substantial losses of vitamin C.
Such knowledge is undoubtedly useful, but individuals may wonder what they can do to ensure the meals they prepare remain as nutritious as possible, even after they’ve been cooked. When preparing meals, individuals looking to maximize the nutritional value of each meal can consider these tips.
• Consume the liquid left after cooking vegetables. It’s commonplace to drain pots and pans of water after using them to cook vegetables. However, when doing so, individuals might literally be pouring nutrients down the drain. In a 2016 interview with CNN, registered dietitian and author Elaine Magee noted that boiling vegetables causes water soluble vitamins like vitamin C, B1 and folate to leach into the water, thus denying people some of the nutritional content of these healthy foods. Though it might seem unusual, consuming the water that vegetables are cooked in can ensure no nutrients are poured down the drain of a kitchen sink.
• Consume cooked vegetables within a day or two. Healthline notes that exposure to air after cooking can decrease the vitamin C content of vegetables. This is something for people to keep in mind, particularly if they like to prepare meals in advance due to hectic schedules that leave little time for daily cooking. Consume cooked vegetables within a day or so of preparing them to avoid losing out on nutrients.
• Avoid pre-cut fruits and vegetables. Some grocery store produce aisles feature an array of pre-cut fruits and vegetables. Though such offerings are undeniably convenient for time-pressed individuals who want to eat healthy, they also might not be as nutritious as shoppers hope. According to Verywell Fit, heat, oxygen and light are the three factors that lead to nutrient loss. When produce is uncut, the interiors are of the food are protected from oxygen and light. Once cuts are made, such as when apples are sliced, then nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A and vitamin E might be lost. Healthy eating is a common New Year’s resolution. It’s important individuals aspiring to eat healthy recognize that how foods are cooked and cut may affect their nutritional value.
SHORT-TERM FITNESS GOALS that can lead to long-term success 3
As New Year’s Day 2026 approached, millions of individuals were preparing to make changes they hoped would improve their fitness. In a Forbes Health/One Poll survey of 1,000 adults in the months leading up to the start of 2026, nearly half (48 percent) of respondents indicated improving their physical fitness would be a top priority over the course of the new year.
Fitness-based resolutions are popular every year, but people who aspire to make such changes recognize how difficult it can be to achieve them. In fact, the Forbes Health/One Poll survey found that roughly 44 percent of respondents indicated their resolutions flamed out at the two- or three-month marker. Though there’s no one-size-fits-all strategy for sticking with and ultimately achieving a resolution, identifying short-term goals that can help people stay motivated can lead to longterm progress. Individuals who want to improve their physical fitness can consider these three short-term goals and use them as measuring sticks as they pursue more long-term objectives.
1. ASPIRE FOR INCREMENTAL WEIGHT LOSS. Weight loss goals were the fourth most popular New Year’s resolution for 2026 among participants in the Forbes Health/One Poll survey. Though that survey separated fitness goals from weight loss goals, the two are certainly linked. Individuals who aspire to lose 10 pounds undoubtedly recognize that such a goal cannot be achieved overnight, so why not aspire to lose small amounts of weight at predetermined intervals? For example, if the end goal is losing 10 lbs., aim to lose two pounds by the end of January. Incremental progress can motivate individuals to stay the course and ultimately propel them toward achieving a more substantial, long-term goal.
2. EXERCISE FOR A PREDETERMINED NUMBER OF DAYS EACH WEEK. Another way to gradually build toward achieving long-term fitness goals is to establish monthly minimum exercise sessions. Individuals accustomed to a sedentary lifestyle can resolve to exercise three days per week in the first month of their resolution, and then increase that by a day in the second month. A consistent schedule when designing this goal is imperative, which is why it can make more sense to plan for three days per week as opposed to 12 days per month.
3. RESOLVE TO WALK A MILE PER DAY. Walking is an accessible cardiovascular activity that can have a profound effect on overall health. Walking also can help condition sedentary individuals’ bodies for more strenuous activity, which is a transition many people aspire to make when setting long-term fitness goals. A daily one-mile walk won’t require a significant commitment of time, but it can help acclimate the body to routine exercise. As the effects of a daily walk begin to take hold, individuals may find it easier to engage in more strenuous physical activities, making this an ideal stepping stone on the way to achieving long-term fitness goals.
Short-term goals can help people remain motivated as they pursue more substantial goals that take longer to achieve. Such an approach can be especially useful for individuals resolving to improve their physical fitness at the start of a new year.
DAILY TASKS to keep your kitchen clean
The kitchen may be the heart of a home, but health experts notes it’s also the dirtiest room in the house.
According to the National Sanitation Foundation, areas where food is stored and prepared have more fecal contamination and bacteria than other places in a home, like the bathroom. The NSF found more than 75 percent of dish sponges and rags tested positive for salmonella, E. coli and fecal matter. This is a much higher percentage than bathroom faucet handles, 9 percent of which were found to contain these harmful microorganisms.
Kitchens also are vulnerable to additional pathogens. Since food is found in kitchens, there may be higher rates of insect and animal pests, which come with their own health dangers. Pest droppings can be a serious health hazard that contaminate food sources and spread airborne pathogens that can trigger asthma and allergic reactions. Pest waste also can lead to gastrointestinal upset.
Kitchens require frequent cleaning. In fact, the following daily cleaning tasks can help keep people safe and healthy.
• Wash dishes. Hand wash all dishes or load them into the dishwasher promptly after use.
• Clean away clutter. Remove unnecessary ingredients, tools and other items that do not need to be on countertops, as such items may be vulnerable to contamination.
• Address surfaces. Use an all-purpose cleaner to clean countertops and the stovetop. Clean up spills as they happen. Look for cleaners that offer microbial protection, but warm, soapy water also works.
• Clean frequent-use items. Cutting boards, the coffee maker, the kitchen sink, and areas of the refrigerator that come in contact with uncooked and unwashed food require frequent, thorough cleaning.
• Soak sponges. Sponges can collect germs. Heating damp sponges in the microwave for a minute can kill bacteria, offers Healthline. Sponges also an be soaked in a quart of warm water with half a teaspoon of concentrated bleach. Others have said to run sponges through the dishwasher cycle to sanitize.
• Wipe down handles. Take time each day to wipe refrigerator handles, stove knobs, microwave handles, faucets, and light switches in the kitchen.
• Replace towels. Frequently switch out kitchen towels, and especially if they have come in contact with raw food. Use a separate towel for drying hands than you do for drying dishes.
• Clean the floor. Vacuum the kitchen floor each day, particularly after dinner. Routine mopping also ensures floors remain clean.
Game on: Rochelle’s Royal Arcade celebrates opening with ribbon-cutting
Arcade inside Roiel Scoop is collaboration with Star Worlds Arcade in DeKalb
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
A ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, Nov. 21, celebrated Royal Arcade, a new arcade space inside local ice cream shop Roiel Scoop at 316 N. Sixth St., Rochelle.
Royal Arcade features various arcade games, including pinball, Skee-Ball, claw machines and more along with darts, pool tables and a jukebox. The space is a collaboration with Star Worlds Arcade, a longtime DeKalb business that has expanded to new locations.
Roiel Scoop is owned by Jon and Marcela Nuyen, and opened in June 2024. Marcela Nuyen said the business is always looking to bring new activities for the community, and is looking at adding an outside climbing wall in the summer for kids.
“We’ve never had more support anywhere we’ve lived or with anything we’ve ever done than we do here in Rochelle,” Jon Nuyen said. “We really appreciate all the people that come here. We look forward to being of service to people and we hope they enjoy our environment. It’s clean, fun and safe. It’s a good move for all involved.”
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was hosted by the Rochelle Chamber of Commerce and the city of Rochelle. Speakers included Chamber Executive Director Tricia Herrera and Rochelle Mayor John Bearrows. Herrera said she was excited about the new arcade space and thanked the Nuyens for their forward thinking.
“If you come into any space with Marcela, you will leave smiling,” Herrera said. “She is a great, positive person and we love having that as part of the Chamber. She’s always thinking of ideas and what can be done to expand. We love to have that as part of the Chamber as well. Thank you both for your investment in so many businesses. You’re a huge part of all of our events and you support athletics at the high school. We are honored to have you in our member-
ship and we’re excited for many more things to come.”
Bearrows thanked Herrera for her work on organizing ribbon-cuttings and said the new arcade space being family friendly is positive for the community.
“This isn’t just a space for machines and games,” Bearrows said. “This is a space for a family to get together. It’s a family-friendly, fun, safe zone. That’s the type of thing we want to see in our community. We’re so thankful that you did it. We like your positive attitude and your willingness to try new things.
“This reminds me of back in the day. It gives our young people a place to go. On behalf of the city, we thank you so much and we look forward to being your partner and seeing you thrive.”
Photo provided by Jason Popp
Nathan Popp and Jojo Volkert, both of Rochelle, play pinball games Nov. 21, at Royal Arcade.
From left to right: Rochelle Mayor John Bearrows, Roiel Scoop owners, John and Marcela Nuyen, and Rochelle Chamber of Commerce
Executive Director Tricia Herrera.
Jeff Helfrich
Ogle County’s Focus House marks 50 years of serving, empowering at-risk youths
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
Focus House celebrated its 50-year anniversary Nov. 14, to honor the half century it has provided a continuum of services, including residential, counseling, education and alternative programming, to at-risk youths.
The event saw speakers including Foundation for Focus House Board President Dave Tess, Focus House Executive Director Brenda Mason, New Hope Fellowship Church Pastor and Former Focus House Teacher Nick Tornabene, Judge John B. Roe III, Rochelle Schools Superintendent Jason Harper and Former Focus House Director Greg Martin.
“Tonight we celebrate 50 years of empowering youth,” Tess said to open the event.
The facility, located just north of Rochelle, offers residential treatment for males aged 12-17 who are court ordered by a judge to go to the facility. Kids in the program eventually transition back to their homes after education, treatment and public service work at Focus House. The facility has three teachers and two paraprofessionals.
Other programming includes alternative to suspension services for kids who receive out-of-school suspension in Ogle County.
Focus House also offers alternative to expulsion services and outpatient treatment for youths on probation,
along with evaluations for youths and work with students at the Chana Education Center.
Tornabene spent 17 years working at Focus House from 1999-2016.
“I have a huge place in my heart for the young men and women that were placed at Focus House,” Tornabene said. “I truly believe the best aspect of Focus House is its family atmosphere. Focus House is a very special place.”
Focus House is one of two facilities of its kind in the state. It is owned and operated by Ogle County. The facility is supported by the community through donations and outreach. Community members come in and work and talk with kids, and Focus House students work for area organizations.
When Focus House first started, it served as a home for youths involved in juvenile abuse and neglect cases without places to go. It previously served boys and girls from infants to teenagers, typically for longer terms than today.
The first location was the Miller House in Rochelle before the move to its current Illinois Route 251 location that has seen new buildings over the years. Roe worked at Focus House in his early 20s, and he said that time shaped his career when he had opportunities to serve kids in the community in the juvenile justice system.
“I was able to put myself in the shoes of the kids and families that we serve,” Roe said. “Without the community and its support of Focus House, we wouldn’t be celebrating 50 years tonight. Many of you have taken kids into your homes over the holidays or taken them on trips. These kids came from less fortunate backgrounds, and those mentoring moments meant tons. I think the program has been visionary. It’s supported change over time. It’s changed with the services and needs of our community.”
Rochelle Township High School employs the teachers that work at Focus House, providing academic services in an individualized fashion for the youths that go there. Harper praised those that have worked to improve the lives of youths at Focus House over the past 50 years.
“All the way from 1975 to 2025, that
vision and commitment to at-risk youth has somehow transcended and moved through changes,” Harper said. “That isn’t common. Organizations change over and rules on placement of kids change. Somehow the one thing that persevered is the commitment of all the people who have worked on behalf of the kids in our community, which is incredibly special. Thank you to everyone who has had a hand in this.”
Martin told stories of staff’s dedication and work with students during his time with the organization.
“What made Focus House work was the staff members,” Martin said. “Every day, I could depend on the fact that we had great staff taking care of the kids. They were committed to the program. I was amazed at how well the teachers did in the teaching environment they had.”
Roe called Focus House staff “dedicated, passionate and accountable” and said every kid that entered the program is treated as an individual with goals. He said the program is respected across the state and is being used as a model for more facilities like it.
“Success is the kids who are now adults and serve our community that went through the program at Focus House,” Roe said. “That’s how we define success. I’m confident that the pillars that support Focus House will continue and there will be a 100-year celebration. It’s about the community, the kids and the program.”
Jeff Helfrich
A Focus House 50th anniversary celebration was held on Friday, Nov. 14, at Luna in Rochelle.
Nick Tornabene
Greg Martin
Dave Tess
BYRON
ALL SAINTS 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: All Saints Lutheran Church and on our website: http://www.allsaintsbyron.
org 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.
Adult Bible Studies are held on Tuesday evenings at 7:00 pm and on Wednesdays at 1:30 pm.
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
“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
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) 246-2685beaconhillbyron.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
AREA CHURCH DIRECTORY
FORRESTON
FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH
402 2nd Avenue, Forreston, IL 61030, Phone 815-938-3203Pastor Scott Ralston
Sunday Worship 9:00 am; Sunday School 10:00 am FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
402 First Ave., Forreston, IL Phone: 815-938-2380
Worship at 9:00 a.m. (childcare provided) with coffee and fellowship
immediately following. Sunday School Age 3-Adult, 10:15 am.
God is Good, All the Time, All the Time, God is Good! ST. JAMES LUTHERAN CHURCH
Celebrating 175 Years!
West Grove Rd. At Columbine Rd.
Worship Service 10:30 am. Communion is served every Sunday.
“Singing the Song of Christian Faith in Worship, Service, Learning, Outreach and Welcome” in a beautiful rural setting.
Everyone is cordially invited to be with us.
Follow Us on Facebook “St. James Lutheran Church”
LEAF RIVER
LEAF RIVER BAPTIST CHURCH
Pastor Billy Hardy Sunday Morning: 9:30am Bible Classes for all ages 10:30am Worship Service with nursery available. Live stream available at leafriver.church/live-now 6941 N. Mt. Morris Rd., Leaf River, IL 61047 815-738-2205 office@leafriverbaptist.org leafriver.church
LEAF RIVER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
104 E. 3rd St., Leaf River, IL 61047 - Phone: 815-345-3038; Pastor Cherie
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
KINGS
ELIM REFORMED CHURCH
140 S. Church Road, Kings, IL 61068 • Pastor Marv Jacobs Phone 815-562-6811 E-mail: goelimchurch@gmail.com Website: www.goelimchurch.org
Sunday morning worship 10:00 am
MOUNT MORRIS
DISCIPLES UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
“By God’s grace in Christ, we LIVE, LOVE, and SERVE” All are welcome here!
9:30 a.m. – Sunday Worship with Communion open to all, followed by fellowship hour 10:45 a.m. Sunday School (Sep. – May)
102 N. Maple Ave., Mt. Morris, IL 61054 815-734-4853 secretary@disciplesumc.org www.disciplesumc.org Pastor Marcia Peddicord
EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH OF MT. MORRIS
102 S. Seminary Ave., Mt. Morris, IL 61054 815-734-4942 www.efcmm.org
Senior Pastor: Bruce McKanna. 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
MOUNT MORRIS
TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH MT. MORRIS
308 E. Brayton Rd., Mt. Morris IL | Phone: 815-734-6354 | Rev. Josh Ehrler Worship Services: Saturday 5:30 PM, Sunday 9:30 AM. Sunday School 10:45AM www.trinitymmil.net| facebook.com/tlcmm
OREGON
EAST OREGON CHAPEL CHURCH OF GOD
East Oregon Chapel Church of God
The Sharing is Caring Church
107 N Daysville Rd. Oregon, IL Phone: 815-732-2960
Sunday Worship: 10:30 AM We look forward to meeting you!
LIGHTHOUSE UNITED METHODIST
Pastor Dave Rogula 4962 S. Daysville Rd., Oregon, IL 61061 lighthouseUMC@yahoo.com
Worship at 11:00 a.m. Holy Communion celebrated the first Sunday of each of month. Lighthouse will lite up your life!
LITTLE PRAIRIE MENNONITE CHURCH
1831 S Harmony Rd. Oregon, IL 61061
Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Morning, 7:00 PM 1st & 3rd Sunday Evening, 7:30 PM 2nd & 4th Wednesday Evenings of the Month. Pastor: Norman Reinford 779-861-3700
OREGON CHURCH OF GOD
860 W. Oregon Trail Road, Oregon, IL. 61061 Phone: 815-732-6847 www.oregoncog.com Pastor Michael Hoffman; Associate Pastor Nathan Massie Sunday School for all ages, 9:30 am; Worship - 10:30 am Tuesday - Prayer Group - 9:30 am; Women’s Bible Study1:00 pm Thursday Men’s Group - 7:00 pm
OREGON FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
505 Hill St. Oregon, IL 61061 Phone: 732-2642
Pastor: David Snow “A Christ-centered, Bible-believing, family-oriented ministry.” Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Sunday Morning Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Afternoon Service 1:15 p.m.; Wednesday Night Bible Study 6:30 p.m.
OREGON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
200 S. 4th Street, Oregon, IL 61061 | 815-732-2994
www.oregonumc.org
Pastor Rev Megan Smick 9:00 am Adult & Youth Bible Study
10 am Worship & Children’s Sunday School In-person or live on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OregonUMC 5:30 pm Wednesday Night Meal All are welcome!
RIVERSTONE CHRISTIAN CHURCH
609 S. 10th Street Oregon, IL 61061
Pastor Craig Arnold ~ 812-236-1213
Sunday Service @ 10:45 AM ~ contemporary style worship with coffee and doughnuts in our cafe! Online worship is also available via Facebook. We believe in sharing Communion every Sunday as an act of worship. RiverKids Service @ 10:45 AM for nursery-6th grade ~ provides a safe and fun environment where kids can learn about who God is and who they are because of Him.
Encounter Youth Ministry for kids in 7th-12th grade meets on Sunday afternoons. Please see our Facebook page for scheduled dates and times. For complete ministry info and events, visit us online at Riverstonecc.com or on Facebook at facebook.com/RiverStoneChristianChurch
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
OREGON
ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH
301 N 4th St, Oregon, IL 61061 - Phone 815-732-7383 - Fr. Bernard Sehr;
Mailing/Office Address: 8 81 Mongan Dr, Oregon IL 61061
Weekend Masses: Sat. 4:30 pm, Sun. 8:30 am and 6:00 pm
Weekday Masses: Mon. 12:05 pm, Wed. and Fri. 8:30 am
Communion Service: Tues. 8:30 am; Reconciliation: Sat 3:30-4:00 pm or by appt. Eucharistic Adoration: Wed. 9-10 am www.stmaryop.org stmary-oregon@rockforddiocese.org
Sunday: Worship at 9:00 and 10:30 am. Sunday School at 9:00 am. Wednesday: AWANA (Sept – April) from 6:00 to 7:30 pm.
Men, women, youth Bible Studies throughout the year. See website for all activities or contact the church office.
KISHWAUKEE COMMUNITY EVANGELICAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
8195 Kishwaukee Road, Stillman Valley, IL 61084 / 815-965-1940 Rev. Nick Garner, Pastor www.kishchurch.org
Sunday Schedule: Discipleship Hour 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
Bible Studies, Youth Group, Bread of Life Food Pantry
Please visit website for more information or contact the church office M-F 9am-2pm
Coffee & Chat (Everyone is welcome!): Tuesdays 8-10am
Visit our Facebook page or YouTube channel for online worship
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Byron Public Library offers Creative Studio sessions, composting class
Wriggle into vermicomposting: On Wednesday, Dec. 17, turn those kitchen scraps into nutrient rich gold for your houseplants and garden! Join Illinois Extension educator Bruce Black from 1–2 p.m. for a fun and informative demonstration on how to create your very own vermicomposting system. Call 815-234-5107 to register.
New mobile App: Did you know that there is an easy way to use the library from your phone? Just download the new “PrairieCat On the Go” app to your phone or mobile device and log in with your library card number and PIN. You’ll be able to view your checkouts and holds, renew renewable materials, search the library catalog and so much more.
Creative Studio: The Creative Studio is open on Sunday afternoons and two evenings a week, so stop by for monthly crafts and to use the maker space equipment. Crafts out on the tables are free of charge, while some other projects will incur a cost depending on materials. Middle school and high school youths can use some of the materials while with an adult or during Teen Time.
Creative Studio hours are Sunday from 1-5 p.m.; Monday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5–8 p.m.; Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5–8 p.m.; Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The studio is closed Friday and Saturday.
Bridge: The bridge group meets every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon at 1 p.m. Anyone from the community is welcome to join, from experienced players to those who want to learn how to play, and no registration is required.
Library Teen Instagram pages.
All Saints Lutheran Church in Byron to host Blue Christmas service on Saturday, Dec. 20
A Blue Christmas worship service will be held at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec 20, at All Saints Lutheran Church at 624 Luther Drive in Byron.
Special hours: In observance of the Christmas holiday, the Byron Public Library will be closed Dec. 24 and 25 and will reopen for regular hours Friday, Dec. 26.
Visit the Byron Library Facebook page, or subscribe to newsletters at byronlibrary.org, to keep up to date on library news and programs. Be sure to also check out the Byron Library and Byron
While Christmas is a season of joy, not everyone feels hopeful or like celebrating. Grief, illness, aging, depression, loneliness, unemployment and loss are magnified.
Even those who are not struggling with losses may feel the stress of preparations and expectations around Christmas time.
State Sen. Chesney to host pet adoption fair at Friends Forever on Saturday, Dec. 13 in Freeport
State Sen. Andrew Chesney, R-Freeport, will host a pet adoption fair on Saturday, Dec. 13, from noon to 2:30 p.m. at the Friends Forever Humane Society in Freeport at 966 W. Rudy Road.
A Blue Christmas service may provide a time and place of solace during the frenetic days surrounding the celebration of Christmas.
This will be a meditative and prayerful service with some music for all those that need this time to heal and feel support. Join the church after the service for coffee, cookies and fellowship. Check out its website: allsaintsbyron.org
Chesney’s pet adoption fair will provide an opportunity for residents of the 45th District to meet adoptable pets, receive information on state programs and speak directly with the senator.
“This adoption fair is a simple way for people to meet pets in need of a forever home and learn more about the resources available in our community,” Chesney said.
“I hope residents will stop by and find a new addition to their family.”
–
Shaw Local News Network
Andrew Chesney
Rochelle works to overcome residents’ objections to potential data center project
A petition titled “Reject plans for a data center in Rochelle, Illinois” had 265 signatures as of Nov. 18
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
Rochelle residents almost filled City Hall council chambers Tuesday, Nov. 18, to learn more about a 50-megawatt, 300,000-square-foot data center potentially locating in Rochelle.
Community members heard presentations from city officials and the data center developer, LFF Industrial, which has been working on a potential project with the city. Public comments and a question-and-answer segment were part of the meeting.
The city has seen recent social media reaction to news of it talking with a developer about a new data center. A petition titled “Reject plans for a data center in Rochelle, Illinois” had 265 signatures as of Tuesday, Nov. 18. The City of Rochelle recently created a “Data Center Q&A” page on its website in an effort to address residents’ concerns.
During his presentation portion, Rochelle City Manager Jeff Fiegenschuh said the developer has owned the potential site near Steward Road since 2013, contacted the city in 2024 and has been working with it on the project since.
Fiegenschuh said the city is soliciting public feedback on the project this month and next steps would be taken in December, including the city council voting on a development agreement for the data center.
The city owns Rochelle Municipal Utilities, which would provide power, water and storm water services to a potential data center.
Fiegenschuh said a development agreement would stipulate and enforce limits on utility use by the data center, along with its obligations to pay for any improvements needed and other items such as noise pollution. The city would not provide any incentive funds to the developer. The data center would be eligible for the state’s 50% property tax
future, it would have to pursue a ComEd reconfiguration of transmission lines.
RMU Superintendent of Water/ Water Reclamation Adam Lanning said Nov. 18 that the data center would be capped at 100,000 gallons of water use per day, but its actual use would be about 10,000 gallons per day or less. The RMU water system sees 4-5 million gallons of water used per day, with its largest current customer using 1 million gallons per day.
abatement for six years, as other businesses located within the Lee-Ogle Enterprise Zone are.
Rochelle already is home to two data centers, owned by Allstate and Northern Trust. Those data centers have been in Rochelle for 15 years and use a combined seven megawatts of electricity.
DeKalb is home to a Meta (Facebook) data center, which is about six times the size of the proposed project in Rochelle.
RMU Superintendent of Electric Operations Blake Toliver presented on the power use of the proposed data center. The data center would be RMU’s largest customer. After the development, the city would have 68 megawatts of power available for other development in the community.
“The reason we decided to cap this potential project at 50 megawatts is to not stifle the growth of any of our other businesses in the event they want to expand,” Toliver said. This data center would be significantly large as a new customer, but we do have the capacity to handle it.”
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 due to long-term power purchase contracts and behind-the-meter generation it has in place.
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. If the data center needed more power than expected in the
“For wastewater, we establish a local discharge limit for all industries to prevent any upsets at the wastewater treatment plant,” Lanning said. “We would regularly inspect this industry as we do all others looking for any chemicals and they would provide a list of any chemicals on site and how they store them. If we didn’t approve of them, they would
Jeff Helfrich
Rochelle hosted a public meeting Nov. 18, on the topic of a 50-megawatt, 300,000-square-foot data center potentially locating in Rochelle.
Lifeline Food Pantry distributes food
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Many volunteers from the Polo Lifeline Food Pantry helped distribute food items from the North-
ern Illinois Food Bank’s mobile food pantry truck on Wednesday, Nov. 19 in Polo.
Photos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
TOP LEFT: Polo Lifeline Food Pantry volunteers helped distribute food items on Wednesday, Nov. 19, from the Northern Illinois Food Bank’s mobile market truck. People waited in their vehicles and took turns filling shopping carts during the morning event in the parking area next to the pantry in Polo. TOP RIGHT: People waited Nov. 19, when the Northern Illinois Food Bank’s mobile market truck was in town. ABOVE: Director Kathy Wragg (left) talks to a woman Nov. 19 during activities. LEFT: Volunteers from the Polo Lifeline Food Pantry help someone in a gray hoodie Nov. 19 during food distribution.
Polo Women’s Club decorates themed Christmas tree for festival
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Polo Women’s Club recently set up its annual Christmas tree at the Polo Area Senior Center. The theme for the tree this year is kindness, so all ornaments, most of them created by club members, feature various acts of kindness. The Grinch sets the tone that a change in attitude will allow “kindness to make your heart grow.”
The center will be featuring several themed trees as part of Polo’s Christmas Festival. Stop by the Center starting Dec. 6 to see and enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday season.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Deputy coroner: Oregon man dies after being struck by car Thursday
An Oregon man died Nov. 20 after he was struck by a car on Route 2 in Ogle County, just north of Grand Detour.
The pedestrian, James Morrison, 68, of Oregon, died at OSF St. Katharine’s Medical Center in Dixon as a result of the collision, Lee County Deputy Coroner Jerry Denault said.
Ogle County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched at 6 p.m. Nov. 20 to the single-vehicle collision in the 7000 block of South Route 2 for a report of a vehicle striking a pedestrian in the road.
According to an Ogle County Sheriff’s Office news release, a white 2012 Kia Sorento, driven south by Justin A. Lange-Anderson, 30, of Camanche, Iowa, struck a pedestrian that was in the road in the 7500 block of South Route 2.
Morrison, who suffered serious injuries, was helped at the scene by Dixon Rural emergency medical services and taken to OSF St. Katharine’s Medical Center in Dixon, where he later was pronounced dead.
The Ogle County Sheriff’s Office and its crash reconstruction unit responded to the scene. The cause of the collision is under investigation.
Deputies were assisted at the scene by
OBITUARIES
LARRY F. CRAMER
Born: August 10, 1935 in Dixon, IL
Died: November 29, 2025 in Oregon, IL
Larry F. Cramer, age 90, passed away on November 29, 2025 at home. He was born in Dixon, IL the son of Lawrence and Adeline (Blackburn) Cramer on August 10, 1935. After graduating high school, Larry proudly served his country in the United States Army. He farmed and raised cattle for many years in the Chana area which he loved and also worked as the press room manager. He was married to Dorothy (Fruin) Cramer between December of 1962 until her death on February 24, 1988. He married Karen Bentley (Layman) on February 20, 1989 and they built
a beautiful and loving life together. He enjoyed spending time with Karen; especially going on long car rides together. After retirement in 1998 he stayed busy by working for Ken Nelson for another 22 years. He owned many German shepherds and his favorite dog, Rex passed away in January 2025. But, more than anything he loved his family. He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Mary Jane, Esther, and Joann; and son, Larry Edward. He is survived and missed by his wife, Karen; children, Stanley and Carmelita; 3 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. A funeral service celebrating his well lived life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Farrell Holland gale Funeral Home in Oregon with Pastor Willie Little officiating with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM until time of service.
Dixon Rural Fire/EMS, Oregon Fire/EMS and the Oregon Police Department.
– Jeff Helfrich
Chana Education Center’s Kalnins wins Principal of the Year award
Ogle County Educational Cooperative and Chana Education Center recently announced that Lynn Kalnins has been chosen as the Illinois Principal Association Northwest Region Middle School Principal of the Year.
“With 18 years of service in alternative education, Lynn has dedicated her career to supporting students who need it most,” a Chana Education Center news release said.
“She has served as building principal for two years and assistant principal for 11 at Chana Education Center, following years of teaching at the elementary, junior high and high school levels. This wide-ranging experience gives her a deep understanding of students’ academic and social-emotional needs.”
grounded in respect, responsibility and student success. Known as a creative and compassionate interventionist, she develops innovative strategies to help struggling students thrive, always guided by her unwavering belief in their potential, according to the release.
Local Ag in the Classroom program accepts $1K donation
The University of Illinois Extension serving Ogle and Carroll counties has received a $1,000 donation from CHS Rochelle to support the Ag in the Classroom program.
The contribution will help expand agricultural education opportunities for local students and educators. Melinda Colbert, AITC program coordinator, accepted the donation during a check presentation ceremony.
The program provides free lessons, activities and resources to schools and teachers, connecting agriculture to their school curriculum.
Melinda
check.
are
CHS; Melinda Colbert, U of I Extension AITC program coordinator; Samantha Zaccaria, CHS; and Josh Brandau, CHS.
University of Illinois Extension Ogle County in collaboration with the Ogle County Farm Bureau and Carroll County Farm Bureau.
“Supporting agricultural education and investing in our youth is one of the many ways we live out our commitment to stewardship in the communities where we live and work,” Samantha Zaccaria of CHS Rochelle said.
She was instrumental in building Chana’s PBIS program and shaping the school’s foundational principles, fostering a culture
Ag in the Classroom is a statewide initiative that offers engaging, curriculum-aligned lessons to students from kindergarten through eighth grade. The program aims to deepen understanding of agriculture’s vital role in society and the economy.
Locally, AITC is delivered through the
The donation will help ensure that teachers and schools in Ogle and Carroll counties continue to have access to free educational materials, hands-on activities and classroom visits that bring agriculture to life.
–ShawLocalNewsNetwork
Photo provided by Polo Women’s Club
Pictured from left to right: Sheila Dean, Marianne Cimino and Pat Kuhn.
Lynn Kalnins
Photo provided by Ogle Extension
Ag in the Classroom Program Coordinator
Colbert accepts CHS Rochelle’s donation
Pictured
(from left) Mark Zaccaria,
OBITUARIES
ANN D. MARTIN
Born: February 21, 1939 in Dalton, KY
Died: December 1, 2025 in Dixon, IL
Ann Daves Martin, daughter of the late Curtis and Ruth Daves, was born in Dalton KY February 21, 1939. She is survived by her husband, Chrissie, of Oregon, IL. They were married July 3, 1963 in Oregon. They have three sons, Christopher (Tara), Byron, IL; Curtis (Ceci), Reno NV; and Zackery (Daphne), Encino CA. Ann is also survived by her two grandsons Zackery (Natilee), Oregon and Adam Walden (Heather), Byron and great-grandchildren Sabrina and Eli Martin and Farrah and Christopher Walden. Ann is also survived by her sister Eva
• DATA CENTER
Continued from page 22
not be allowed to have them on site or discharge them into our system.”
Fiegenschuh said the data center would bring 25-35 permanent jobs with an average salary of $85,000. The project also would bring 500-800 temporary construction jobs. The developer would pay the city $125,000 in permit fees for its build, and would pay $450,000 per year in utility tax.
Based on most recent numbers, following the construction of the data center, if it was hypothetically valued at $250 million, Rochelle residents would see a decrease in their overall property tax rate from 8.55 percent to 7.52 percent and a home valued at $100,000 would see a bill decrease of $340.33.
“One of the reasons we want to see more commercial and industrial growth in this community is we want more value to tax from, so we’re not as reliant on property taxes of homes,” Fiegenschuh said.
Zach La Motta presented at the meeting representing the data center developer, LFF Industrial. The property under consideration is 124 acres and currently is farmland. The data center
Tucker (Robert), Princeton KY; “big brother” Jim Garnett, Princeton KY; nephew Shawn Tucker (Melody); niece Teryl Farmer (Joey), Dalton, KY; cousin Karen Maddux (Greg), Marion KY; grand-nieces Maggie Jo Sawyer (Quentin) and Laney Watts (Austin); and new great grand-nephew Colter Sawyer. Ann was pre-deceased by her parents, brothers James and Keith Daves, Aunt Edith Richards, Uncle John Richards and his wife Algie. Ann worked as a legal secretary for Fearer and Nye in Oregon for several years before she started her career as a hearing officer for the State of Illinois, a job she loved and excelled at. She retired in April 2003. Ann was a talented bridge player, wood worker, basket weaver, quilter and enjoyed sewing. In her younger years she was an avid tennis player, often playing in local tournaments. Any activity she was involved in was done with passion and obtaining all the knowledge she could about
that skill or game. She enjoyed canning fresh vegetables from the garden and she could stand at the stove canning tomatoes for hours and hours. Her greatest passion was being a mother and grandmother. Her children took part in every activity that she participated in - sports, cooking, sewing, painting, ceramics, reading and fishing. It doesn’t get better than that! Ann was a tremendous supporter of her husband Chris in his governmental activities and elective offices. She organized her ceramics class to walk door-to-door in most of the towns in Ogle County for his first campaign for Ogle Country Treasurer in 1978. In 2011 Ann and Chris became part of the Oregon Church of God family, making new friends and establishing a warm friendship with Pastor Michael Hoffman and his wife Linda. During her most recent hospitalizations Ann would often say “God has been good to me and my family.” Ann always remained active and engaged in
would use a footprint of 5-10 acres south of Interstate 88 up against train tracks and away from residential property.
Next steps would include a development agreement, a bond posted by the developer, securing of power, finding an end user for the data center and construction. The final design of the data center would be subject to the end user, but would be subject to a development agreement with the city.
“We really do view the city as an active participant and partner in this project every step of the way,” La Motta said. “We feel we’ve eliminated the downside for the city and residents of this community and we look forward to bringing this development to Rochelle.”
During the question-and-answer portion of the meeting, Rochelle resident Megan Sneyd asked how power would be prioritized by RMU for the
her full life and will be greatly missed by her family and many friends, which include her Rockford Bridge Center and special far-away friend Honey Wilde in Central, Alaska. Her family thanks the UW Health providers for their care and friendship. Visitation will be Sunday December 7 from 3-5pm at Oregon Church of God, 860 West Oregon Trail Road, Oregon, IL 61061. The funeral service will be Monday December 8 at 10am at the Oregon Church of God with Pastor Michael Hoffman officiating. Burial will follow the service at Mt. Zion Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Ann requested any gifts in her name to be made to the Oregon Church of God. To leave a condolence or memory of Ann visit www.farrellhollandgale.com.
data center in the event of a large outage.
“RMU has an outage restoration plan that prioritizes all public services before any of our industrial customers,” Toliver said. “In the event of a large-scale outage here, the data center would be on its own. That’s how we operate here. We prioritize residents and our public services first.”
Rochelle resident Dawn Nance spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting.
“Even though we can support this, should we?” Nance said. “This industry is all new. Does our small community want to be a guinea pig? Are we sure we’re asking the right questions?”
To close the meeting, Fiegenschuh thanked community members for attending and making comments and encouraged residents to reach out to the city with questions regarding the potential data center.
“We appreciate everyone’s comments and concerns,” Fiegenschuh said. “Myself and the mayor and city council and much of our staff live here. We want to make sure we’re getting the best development for the community. I want to see us generate more revenue for the city so we can reduce taxes overall for our residents.”
Image provided by LFF Industrial
Shown is a conceptual rendering for the proposed data center looking at locating in Rochelle.
HOW TO PLAY
Each row, column and set of 3-by-3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 through 9 without repetition.
Pickles
Wizard of Id
Alley Oop Garfield
Hagar the Horrible
Barney Google and Snuffy Smith
Daddy Daze
JANRIC CLASSIC SUDOKU
This is a theme puzzle with the subject stated below. Find the listed words in the grid. (They may run in any
but always in a straight line. Some letters are used more than once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have com pleted the puzzle, there will be 19 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.
Pets or performers?
Solution: 19 Letters
Active Aegean Agile Bed Birds Bite Bobtail Breed Cattery Claws Coat Comb Cornish Rex Dams Feline Feral Fight Funny Furry Groom Hairball Hunt
Creators Syndicate 737 3rd Street • Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 310-337-7003 • info@creators.com
Date: 12/6/25
Speed Bump
PUBLI CATION IS G IVEN TO: RANDAL L C. HALL
That on the 5th of November, 2025, Plaintiff C.M HALL & SONS, LLC, filed an original of its Petition for Revival of Judgment in the above-entitled cause with the Circuit Court of the 15th Judicial District, Ogle County, Illinois in the amount of $348,368.98 plus costs and interest as of November 4, 2025.
CLASSIFIED
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE, STATE OF IL LINOIS
C.M. HALL & SONS, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. RANDALL C. HALL, Defendant.
In case no.: 2018 L 20 NOTICE B Y PUBLI CATION IS G IVEN TO: RANDAL L C. HALL
That on the 5th of November, 2025, Plaintiff C.M HALL & SONS, LLC, filed an original of its Petition for Revival of Judgment in the above-entitled cause with the Circuit Court of the 15th Judicial District, Ogle County, Illinois in the amount of $348,368.98 plus costs and interest as of November 4, 2025.
A default Order for Revival of Judgment may be taken against you for new or additional relief unless you file a response and/or otherwise file an appearance in the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Ogle County, Illinois at 106 S 5th St #300, Oregon, IL 61061, on or before December 24, 2025, that being thirty (30) days after the first publication date of this notice.
E-filing is mand atory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. For help with e-filing and to learn more visit ilcourts.
info/efiling
A default Order for Revival of Judgment may be taken against you for new or additional relief unless you file a response and/or otherwise file an appearance in the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Ogle County, Illinois at 106 S 5th St #300, Oregon, IL 61061, on or before December 24, 2025, that being thirty (30) days after the first publication date of this notice.
E-filing is mand atory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions.
For help with e-filing and to learn more visit ilcourts.
info/efiling
TIM SCORDATO, RENO AND ZAHM, Attorney for Plaintiff, 2902 McFarland Road, Suite 400, Rockford, Illinois, 61107 (815) 987-4050
Nov. 24, Dec. 1, 8 2025
Immediate opportunity for an Electronics professional with thorough understanding of PLCs, VSDs, & ability to troubleshoot electrical issues. Heavy industrial electronics exp. required; Supervisory exp. preferred. Salary + monthly incentive pay, insurance, retirement & time off benefits. Detailed description, pay info & application available at https://Leggett.com/careers.
EEO/Veteran/Disability Employer
TIM SCORDATO, RENO AND ZAHM,
Oregon boys open basketball season with win
By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com
Monday, Nov. 24
Boys basketball
Oregon 74, South Beloit 34: Benny Olalde (10 points), Cooper Johnson (12), Tucker O’Brien (10), Keaton Salsbury (11) and Brian Wallace (12) all were in double figures for the Hawks to open the season with a win.
Girls basketball
Eastland 49, Forreston 15: Tatum Grim led the Cougars with 17 points, seven rebounds and four assists at the Forreston Tournament. Trixie Carroll added 13 points for Eastland (5-0).
Boys bowling
Oregon 3,258, St. Bede 2,637: Oregon freshman Rylann Delehanty led the way with a 615 series. Ivan Hernandez had a 570, and RJ Keene rolled a 566.
Tuesday, Nov. 25
Boys wrestling
Oregon wins two: The Hawks beat West Carroll 66-18 to open the season before tying a school record with a perfect 84-0 win over Amboy. The Clippers were shorthanded after winning the Illinois 8-Man Football Association state title.
Against West Carroll, Oregon’s Kendra Ege, Isaiah Perez and Jack Benesh earned pins. Against Amboy, Josiah Perez, Isaiah Perez, Nelson Benesh and Ian Tajiboy won by pin for the Hawks.
Girls basketball
Riverdale 46, Polo 40: Carlee Grobe led Polo with 18 points and Cam Jones scored 12 in the road loss. Grobe hit six 3-pointers.
Oregon 56, Mendota 38: Sarah Eckardt led Oregon with 14 points in the win. Avery Kitzmiller and Aniyah Sarver each added 10 points for Oregon.
Stockton 35, Forreston 18: Eva Hunertmark led the Cardinals with seven points in the loss to take fifth at their home tournament. Forreston was JV champion at the tournament.
Boys bowling
Oregon 3,340, Dixon 2,831: Oregon was led by Ivan Hernandez’s 568 series. Caleb Ehrler (564) and Ethan Rowe (560) were right behind as Oregon had six bowlers roll 542 or better. Aaron Fitzanko (558) and Sam Gingras (537) led Dixon.
Wednesday, Nov. 26
Boys basketball
Oregon 68, Marian Catholic 53: The Hawks are off to a 2-0 start, and the offense has looked sharp at their home Thanksgiving tournament. Cooper Johnson scored 19 points, Benny Olalde scored 18 and Tucker O’Brien scored 13.
Oregon hit 10 3-pointers in the win.
“This is a very fun group to be around, and I’m grateful for it every single day,” Oregon coach Jarrett Reynolds said. “They listen, they play hard. I mean, we haven’t proven any -
thing yet, but I think we’re heading in the right direction.”
Reynolds said the team has done a great job sharing the ball with plenty of players capable of getting hot.
“The guys have a great feel for the game, and they see whoever has a hot hand, they want to go back to that guy,” he said. “Everybody plays their role really well, which is important.”
Girls basketball
Polo 69, West Carroll 22: Cam Jones scored 17 of her 25 points in the first quarter to help give Polo early control. Elsa Monaco and Macie Mandrell each
scored 11 points for the Marcos. Macie Carroll scored 11 points, and Catty Houzenga added nine for the Thunder.
Saturday, Nov. 29
Boys bowling
Oregon takes third in Rockford: The Hawks had their highest finish in 23 years after tallying a 5,036 at the NIC-10/NIBC Tournament at Don Carter Lanes. Hononegah (5,821) was first and Harlem (5,151) took second. RJ Keene (1,105) was eighth individually and Rylann Delehanty (1,076) was 14th for Oregon.
Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
Oregon’s Cooper Johnson shoots against Woodstock Marian at the Oregon Boys Basketball Thanksgiving Tournament Nov. 26 at the Blackhawk Center in Oregon.
Big favorite Byron fends off Tolono to win state
Andy Colbert SPORTS VIEWS
Friday morning at the Nash Rec Center, a friend asked me what the 3A football championship point spread would be in the Byron-Tolono Unity game. At first, I said Byron by 50 points, thinking that this would be easier for them than the IC Catholic and Richmond-Burton were. Remembering Tolono had a good quarterback; I amended that to be more along the lines of 30 points.
Boy, was I ever wrong in predicting a blowout win by the Tigers. At least I had company on that one with prognosticators all over the state. About the only person who dared give Tolono a chance was Matt Leng on the popular “Edgy Tim” high school football podcast.
Being from central Illinois, Leng was hip to the abilities of Tolono quarterback Dane Eisenmenger. He boldly stated that if Tolono could stay close into the fourth quarter, they would win because of Eisenmenger.
Not only did Tolono stay close (56-50), but after recovering an onside kick, they had the ball first-and-goal with under a minute left in the game. Considering Tolono already had scored 21 points in the fourth quarter and Eisenmenger had 205 yards passing in that quarter alone, the odds were now stacked against Byron. What a stunning development.
Needing only three yards to score and all the momentum in the world, Tolono was poised for one of the biggest championship game upsets in IHSA history and the opportunity to win its first state title after six runner-up finishes.
What could prevent them from getting a simple three yards on four tries after already piling up 652 yards of offense? But, football is a crazy game, one reason for its widespread popularity.
First, it was an incomplete pass. Then a false start penalty, another incompletion, another penalty, another incompletion and suddenly it was fourth-and-13.
Still, Tolono was 3-3 on fourth down attempts and 13 yards was no impediment for a quarterback who had already had 14 completions of over 15 yards. Strangely, it can sometimes be
an advantage to have an extra 10 yards to work with so close to the end zone.
With fans all over the state getting a dose of entertainment rarely seen for all 48 minutes of the IHSA football finals, everyone had to be on edge as the ball left Eisenmenger’s golden arm.
Tyler Henry, who had 16 catches for 160 yards, was the intended receiver in the corner of the end zone. He had company, though, in the form of Caden Considine.
Considine, who had set a 3A championship game record with 367 yards rushing, made a defensive play that will likely be remembered more than any of his 30 rushing attempts. He knocked the ball away from the sure-handed Henry and Byron could finally party like it was 2023, its last state title.
In the aftermath, those very same fans, be it inside Hancock Stadium, watching online or on TV, are calling this thriller one of the best ever played in the annals of IHSA history.
I can’t dispute that. To me, it harkens back to 2001 when Riverside-Brookfield was in a similar scenario against Joliet Catholic in the
5A playoffs.
Like Tolono, Riverside-Brookfield had a prolific passing attack, while Joliet Catholic was more in the vein of the Byron-type power rushing game. There was so much hype leading up to this game, a carload of us went in to watch it, my first time back in Brookfield since going to the zoo there as a kid.
With thousands of fans and not enough bleachers, I seem to remember fans hanging from trees like monkeys, just to get a glimpse of the action.
A pronounced underdog, R-B stunned big, bad Joliet the same way Tolono did to Byron. With under a minute to play, it was an identical 56-50 score and R-B had a first-and-goal. Here was a chance to shake up the hierarchy of prep football and send shockwaves all over the state? Since they hadn’t been stopped all night, wasn’t it a given R-B was going to score.
Unfortunately not. As was stated earlier, football is a crazy game and Joliet managed to keep the R-B out of the end zone on four tries, just like Byron did to Tolono.
Joliet went on to win one of its 15 state titles. Byron is up to four crowns and it isn’t out of the question for them to reach 15 state titles.
In the last 10 years, the Tigers have won more games (113) than anyone in Illinois other than Lena-Winslow (117), which made it state title number seven with a blowout win over Brown County.
In post-game comments, L-W coach Ric Arand made it a point to mention that conference rival Stockton was better than any other 1A team in the state. So very true and it was a shame Stockton couldn’t have been in the title game. Getting back to the Byron-Tolono game, credit needs to go to both squads for tremendous sportsmanship. Play after play, kids were helping each other up from the ground. Extending a friendly hand to an opponent during heated competition says a lot about the character of a program.
• Andy Colbert is a longtime Ogle County resident with years of experience covering sports and more for multiple area publications.
Alex T. Paschal
The Byron Tigers celebrate their 56-50 win over Tolono-Unity Nov. 28 in the Class 3A football finals at Hancock Stadium at ISU.
Byron hangs on, grabs title with wild win
Multiple state records fall in thrilling, high-paced tilt
By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com
In a game that saw over 100 points and 1,200 total yards, it seemed strange that it all came down to a defensive stop to decide the Class 3A state title game on Friday night.
But Byron got that stop, and that, coupled with an amazing effort from Caden Considine, allowed the Tigers to claim a 56-50 win over the Rockets.
“It was a great year, a great game and all credit to Tolono Unity,” Byron coach Jeff Boyer said. “All the respect in the world to their program and their kids and their coaches because they played one heck of a game and probably deserved to win too.”
Considine ran for a Class 3A state record 367 yards, breaking the previous record of 270 yards held by IC Catholic’s Jordan Rowell in 2016.
Considine did it by powering through tacklers and, in some cases, simply running them over in a game that turned into much more of an offensive shootout than most expected.
“I’m happy that this wasn’t a blowout tonight like a lot of people expected it to be, and I’m happy that they played us down to the wire,” Considine said. “It makes this game so much more special to win.”
Byron (14-0) turned the tide of the game after trailing 29-28 at halftime by getting a pair of 6-yard touchdowns, one by Andrew Talbert and the other by Considine, that went unanswered by Tolono Unity.
Unity (12-2) had managed to keep the game close largely due to a prolific passing effort by Dane Eisenmenger.
Eisenmenger eclipsed the 3A passing yardage record by the end of the third quarter by throwing for z340 yards through three quarters, eclipsing the previous record set by Williamsville’s Conor McCormick of 335 from 2019.
Eisenmenger’s final numbers of 42 for 65 for 545 yards and seven touchdowns also gave him 3A records for completions and touchdown passes.
That fifth touchdown did allow
Tolono to climb within 42-36, but after Considine broke a long run to give him the Class 3A record for rushing yardage in a game, Talbert scored from seven yards out to increase the Byron lead to 50-36.
Eisenmenger tossed his sixth touchdown pass to once again turn it into a one-score game once again only to see Byron answer quickly on Considine’s third touchdown run on a drive that broke another record, total yardage achieved by both teams, with the final tally ending up at 1,211 yards.
Tolono still had a little left in the tank and Eisenmenger tossed his seventh touchdown pass to pull the Rockets to within 56-50 with two minutes to play. Unity then recovered an onside kick and drove all the way down to the Byron 13-yard line before being denied on a fourth down and goal play, with the deciding play being shut down ultimately by Considine.
The two teams battled through an explosive first half that saw Tolono
emerge with a 29-28 lead.
The two teams have combined for 633 yards of first-half offense as Tolono’s Eisenmenger threw for 299 yards and four touchdowns and Byron’s Considine ran for 145 yards on just 10 carries.
The loss was tough to swallow for Tolono, its seventh time in a state title game without a victory. But first-year
coach Tony Reetz focused on the accomplishments his Rocket team put forth.
“I never had a doubt that we’d be right there at the end,” Reetz said. “I think these kids have never given us any reason to believe that we’re out of a game and think that it was very fitting for us to be in a game that nobody gives us a chance to be in.”
Photos by Alex T. Paschal
Byron’s Caden Considine fights for yards against Tolono-Unity Nov. 28 in the Class 3A football finals at Hancock Stadium at ISU in Normal.
Byron’s Kade Politsch lifts the first place trophy as Byron celebrates their 56-50 win over Tolono-Unity Nov. 28, in the Class 3A football finals at Hancock Stadium at ISU in Normal.
SPORTS
TIGERS CLAIM FOURTH TITLE
BYRON FOOTBALL HISTORY
TIGERS TITLES: The Byron Tigers have won state football championships in 1999, 2021, 2023 and 2025.
Byron hangs on to claim a thrilling 56-50 victory over Tolono Unity in Class 3A final as multiple state records fall / 30, 31
Byron hoists its first place trophy Nov. 28 in the Class 3A football final at Hancock Stadium at ISU in Normal. The Tigers beat Tolono Unity, 56-50.
