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Celebrating 3 years

OnCall Imaging in Rock Falls places a focus on giving patients a choice for their needs / 4 TODAY’S EDITION: 32 pages • Vol. 37, Issue 37

LATE RAILWAY WORKER HONORED

J​ osé ‘Carlos’ Ordaz, a Rochelle resident with 30-year career with BNSF Railway, recently was featured in Chicago art exhibit / 3 ​

Christmas Greetings from your friends at

Early work on phone in north-central Illinois

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

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The human-built systems, including tools, machines, knowledge, and resources to send and receive messages to other humans or machines, are called communication technology. These systems have a great influence on people throughout the world. Communication technology influences, and often controls, our lives, and when we understand more about it, we can adapt by making choices about how it will be used in our lives. This understanding can start with having a general knowledge of its history.

Message sending is the fundamental goal of communication technology. Messages are composed of data, the smallest pieces of the message content. If we think of a message as if it were a song, the data are the individual notes, notations and symbols. By themselves, they are meaningless. But when combined in an organized way, the entire song makes sense and provides information and emotion.

As I discussed in a previous article, the telegraph emerged during the mid1800s as a new, nearly instantaneous process to move a message over a long distance by using binary data of dits and dahs (dots and dashes). Wires connecting locations near and far carried the electric data from one telegraph to another, creating the communication system. Starting in the mid-1800s, telegraph companies began to emerge and eventually grow to be large, connected hubs of communication. But telegraph messages had to be encoded and decoded by specially trained telegraph operators. And the messages were typically just short, to-the-point statements.

They certainly lacked that “human touch” and were not widely used by the public, unless a very important message needed to be sent.

The development of the telephone in north-central Illinois changed that during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the telephone began to transform how communities communicated, conducted business and organized social life. While the invention of the telephone itself occurred far from Illinois, its adoption in Rochelle and the towns around us mimicked the broader pattern of development shaped by local

​COMMUNITY VIEWS Kurt Wolter needs, private enterprise and community culture. In north-central Illinois, the telephone became a crucial link between rural life and an increasingly modern, interconnected society.

After the telephone moved beyond experimental use, telephone service began appearing in Illinois in the late 1870s and 1880s. Early systems were only local and very simple, typically connecting just a handful of businesses, railroad depots and/or government offices. Because it didn’t require a telegraph operator at every terminal, the telephone could be adopted by small private companies, rural cooperatives and local governments. This characteristic was especially important in rural regions of north-central Illinois, where farms and small towns demanded faster communication without waiting for large urban corporations to take interest in their specific town.

These private and public ventures promoted telephone service in our region. Early telephone companies were often small, locally owned enterprises created by businessmen, farmers or local investors. These companies built wooden poles, strung wire along roads and fence lines, and set up switchboards staffed by local operators who became important figures in their communities.

Everyone knew the telephone operators! (Just think, they eventually would get their own spot on the telephone dial) Over time, larger corporate systems such as Illinois Bell expanded outward from Chicago and major cities, absorbing or interconnecting with these smaller companies. This gradual consolidation brought greater reliability and long-distance capability, while still relying heavily on infrastructure first established at the local level.

When two separate telephone companies became interconnected, a telephone “exchange” was needed.

The exchange provided a location where the wires from one system could

be connected with the wires from another. This is where they exchanged telephone signals. Typically, the exchange operator would plug one cable from one system into the connection to another cable from the other system.

You may have seen this depicted in movies or on TV, or even old Carol Burnett comedy shows!

In larger cities such as Rockford, telephone development occurred earlier than in the smaller rural towns, and at a faster pace. Rockford’s industrial economy and growing population demanded efficient communication for factories, banks, utilities and municipal services. By the early 20th century, Rockford had multiple telephone exchanges, purpose-built telephone company buildings, and a workforce of technicians and operators. Businesses depended on the telephone to coordinate production and shipping, while city government used it to modernize public services such as police and fire response.

Smaller rural cities and towns, such as DeKalb, Oregon, and Rochelle, each experienced a slightly different but related pattern. All were agricultural centers, with DeKalb a growing educational town, Rochelle a major transportation Hub and vacation destination (because of our railroad connections to Chicago), and Oregon as a legal and governmental center. Each relied on a mixture of local independent companies and later connections to larger networks. Small businesses of all kinds came to rely on and demand easy access to quality telephone communications.

Surrounding rural area farmers wanted the telephone to reduce their isolation, facilitate the sale of crops and livestock, and allow rapid communication during emergencies – particularly important in regions where travel could be difficult during winter months. In all places, the telephone connected people from different walks of life. I wonder who the first person in Ogle County was to mutter the words, “Can you hear me now?”

The social effects of telephone adoption were just as significant as the economic ones. Telephones changed

ON THE COVER

HOW ARE WE DOING?

José “Carlos” Ordaz worked for BNSF from 1974-2004 as a laborer, grinder and welder. See story on Page 3.

We want to hear from you.

Email us your thoughts at feedback@shawmedia.com.

Photo provided by Paola Huerta

See Wolter on page 5

Scan here here to Scan to get get Ogle County Kendall County Text Alerts Alerts Text

3 OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025 OCL Photo provided by Paola Huerta

José “Carlos” Ordaz is seen with his wife, Gloria, and their five children, Jesús, Rosa, Debora, Lorena and Carla.

Late Rochelle railroad worker featured in exhibit at National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago ican Art in Chicago.

“It was a very big part of our family,” that there were opportunities in the rail-

‘Our family is so proud The exhibit highlights the contribu- Huerta said. “I remember being little and road industry. So he traveled north to tions of Mexican and Mexican immigrant seeing him leave with his uniform on Illinois. He arrived in Rochelle in 1973. to see him recognized’: railroad workers throughout Chicago with his lunchbox. My aunt and grand- He worked at Caron International and and the Midwest. Rieles y Raíces (tracks mother remember him being called into Del Monte Foods before starting at BNSF. Ordaz was a BNSF Railway and roots), curated by Ismael Cuevas, work in the middle of the night. He was Ordaz began as a laborer, advanced to M.A., and Alejandro Benavides, Ph.D., always on call. It was very nice to see him grinder, and eventually became a welder, worker for 30 years shares the history of Mexican and Mexi- recognized. We saw his old coworkers which he did until his retirement.

By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com José “Carlos” Ordaz, a longtime Rochelle resident and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway worker of 30 years, recently was featured along with Rochelle in the Rieles y Raíces exhibit at the National Museum of Mex-

can-American traqueros (railroad workers) through community stories and archival research, highlighting the communities they created along the very tracks they maintained.

Ordaz’s story, photos and items were submitted to the exhibit by his granddaughter, Paola Huerta. Ordaz, who died in 2024, worked for BNSF from 1974-2004 as a laborer, grinder and welder.

recognized as well. It was cool to see all of those people honored and recognized, as they should be.”

Ordaz was born Nov. 4, 1940, in Rancho Grande, Zacatecas, Mexico. He married his wife, Gloria, on Oct. 21, 1971, and they had five children, Jesús, Rosa, Debora, Lorena and Carla.

In 1972, Ordaz emigrated from Zacatecas to El Paso, Texas. There he heard

“Though Burlington Northern often recognized its employees with anniversary gifts such as gold-filled Cross Pen sets, Red Wing boots, and commemorative rings, José also faced the painful reality of racism and isolation,” according to his submission to the museum exhibit. “As one of the few Mexican

See Ordaz on page (To)

OnCall Imaging of Rock Falls enters 3rd year of providing services to the region Imaging center offers patients MRI, CR, X-ray, DEXA, mammogram and ultrasound

By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com OnCall Imaging in Rock Falls recently began its third year in business.

The 8,000-square-foot imaging center on the corner of Routes 40 and 30 and two minutes from the Interstate 88 interchange offers MRI, CT, X-ray, DEXA, mammogram and ultrasound services.

OnCall Imaging places an emphasis on giving patients of the region a choice for their imaging needs, Director of Operations Skip Sage said. It touts short wait times and and lower prices than area

dent offerings are up to 80% cheaper than local hospitals and have “revolutionized” imaging resources in the rural area.

Transparent pricing lets patients know what their expenses will be, and cash payment is available. OnCall Imaging has fellowship-trained radiologists and experienced technicians. Its three longest-tenured techs have more than 100 years of experience combined, Sage said.

“A center like this is very uncommon in this area,” Sage said. “I don’t know of a similar center within at least 100 miles.

We’re free-standing. It’s unique to have in a rural area like this with what we offer. There just aren’t any others.

“We draw patients from southern Wisconsin, eastern Iowa, the Peoria Photo provided by OnCall Imaging area and the suburbs. Some patients can’t afford a $6,000 MRI at a hospital.

OnCall Imaging at 1609 First Ave. in Rock Falls recently began its third year in business.

Here, it’s probably an average of $600 – hospitals, and accepts almost all insurThe center has more than 150 five-star 80% cheaper. It’s been a real plus for the ances, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Google reviews, Sage said.

Medicare and Medicaid.

Sage said OnCall Imaging’s indepenSee OnCall on page (To)

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

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• WOLTER

Continued from page 2 patterns of social interaction by making communication faster and more frequent. Neighbors no longer needed to travel to relay news, and families could remain in closer contact despite distance. In rural towns, the local switchboard became a social hub where operators not only connected calls but also helped spread information – sometimes officially and sometimes informally. This new communication culture reshaped community

Photo provided by Paola Huerta

José “Carlos” Ordaz, a longtime Rochelle resident and Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railway worker of 30 years, was recently featured along with Rochelle in the Rieles y Raíces exhibit at the National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago. in 1973.

Ordaz was a well-known member of the community and St. Patrick’s Church.

Along with his family, he loved music, dancing, food, sweet treats, and horses.

Huerta said when her grandmother saw the museum exhibit, she was amazed.

“She didn’t think there would be any sort of gallery for something like that,” Huerta said. “It brought tears to her eyes and happiness that her husband was featured in a museum. It warmed her heart.”

Huerta wants to see more representation of people like her grandfather for the work that they did.

“Our family is so proud to see him recognized,” Huerta said. “Especially with how the political climate is around immigration now, something positive like that is amazing to see. Having him be a part of the exhibit leaves behind a legacy of resilience, strength and love. That work was a big part of his life. His story stands as a testament to the sacrifice and spirit of Mexican workers who helped build and maintain railways across the Midwest.” life throughout north-central Illinois.

The telephone didn’t have the last word, surprise, surprise. It paved the way for more, better, faster communication technology in the years to come.

Stay tuned for more on that later!

• Kurt Wolter has studied and taught technology, including production, transportation, energy, and communication, for over 30 years. He enjoys trying to understand technology and its past, present and future while also attempting journalism. He can be reached at technohistory100@ gmail.com.

OCL

workers in both the company and the town of Rochelle, he endured harassment severe enough to affect his health and force him to switch work teams. Out of fear of losing his job, he never reported the discrimination.”

Huerta said her grandfather channeled the struggles he saw on the job into perseverance and proving himself. To his daughters and grandchildren, he would often say, “Tienes que ser mejor que el mejor, y aún más mejor que eso,” meaning “You have to be better than the best, and even better than that.”

When Ordaz’s final day at BNSF arrived after three decades of service, the company marked his retirement with nothing more than a box of doughnuts.

On his walk home that day, he removed his safety helmet and lunch box and hurled them down the tracks.

In his later years, José often joked about how much water he had to drink while working on the railroads. Because of the extreme heat and conditions, he’d often have to drink a gallon or more of water each day. So, when his family would encourage him to drink water in his retirement, he would stubbornly refuse, saying he’d already had enough water for a lifetime, now he deserved a can of pop instead.

Huerta said if her grandfather was here today, he would’ve enjoyed seeing his name in the exhibit.

“He always had so many stories of the railroad and BNSF,” Huerta said. “He would’ve loved to go to the exhibit and answer questions and tell his stories about what he used to do.”

The Rieles y Raíces exhibit has started a new archive of Mexican and Mexican American railway workers. Huerta said the amount of submissions that were seen shows how much history there is.

The Rochelle area had very few Mexican families when Ordaz came to work there

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

Continued from page 3

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

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OnCall Imaging also offers a women’s center with a spa-like environment and the “latest diagnostic technology” designed for comfort, privacy and early detection.

OnCall Imaging came about as a collaboration between OSF Healthcare and Imaging Centers of Illinois, which saw the need in the area for an alternative place to have cost-effective imaging done.

“People often find out what the cost is for imaging at a hospital, and they just decide not to get it done,” Sage said.

“We work with patients, and we offer cash pay. We do everything we can to make sure they get their exam done.

This was like a prototype of what OSF and Imaging Centers of Illinois would like to do in rural areas in the state. I think they want to do more centers like this one.”

Sage said OnCall Imaging can get patients in for same-day or next-day imaging, with timelines depending on insurance. Quality is on par with imaging services that area hospitals offer, he said.

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OnCall Imaging (Rock Falls) places an emphasis on giving patients of the region a choice for their imaging needs, Director of Operations Skip Sage said. patients that screenings wouldn’t have been feasible for them if they didn’t have access to its independent services, Sage said. The center has been honored as a top employer, business of the year and for its Google reviews by local business organizations, Sage said.

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40 years,” Sage said. “I worked for OSF St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford and did more retail imaging in the suburbs. Of everything I’ve done, this has made the biggest impact on the people and employers of the area and myself. I’m proud to work here, with all the good things we do to help people.”

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7 OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

Continued from page 4

OnCall Imaging offers CT calcium score screenings, with a self-pay price of $49 until Dec. 31. The scan takes 10 minutes, and same-day appointments are available with no physician’s order required. Sage said those screenings have yielded positive outcomes for patients.

“They measure the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries,” Sage said. “We’ve probably had four to five people come in here and basically say, ‘You saved my life.’ People got that test done here and found out they had severe coronary artery disease, and then went on to have open-heart surgery. We’ve had people say that if they didn’t come here, they probably would have had a massive heart attack.”

Sage called the demand for imaging in the area “huge” and expects that to continue as the population ages. He wants the community to know that they have a choice when it comes to their imaging needs.

“If your doctor wants you to go to a hospital for an MRI, and the patient knows about us at OnCall and that it’s cheaper with the same quality, they have the right to choose OnCall for their imaging,” Sage said. “That’s the biggest hurdle we need for more awareness. Patients can orchestrate their own health care.”

Attorney for Mt. Morris man charged with killing stepson asks for more time to review evidence

By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent A Mt. Morris man accused of fatally shooting his stepson after an argument in a Mt. Morris apartment in April will appear in court again in February as his attorney continues to sift through evidence provided by prosecutors.

“I’ve received a substantial amount of discovery evidence including videos and downloads of a phone. There have been some tech issues,” Ogle County Assistant Public Defender Eric Morrow told Judge Anthony Peska. “I am asking for more time.”

Morrow is the court-appointed attorney for Derek Swanlund, 45, who is charged with the first-degree murder of Cameron Pasley, 25, also of Mt. Morris.

Police have described the shooting death as a “domestic incident.”

Peska set Swanlund’s next court hearing for 1 p.m. Feb. 11 and remanded him to the Ogle County Jail, where he has been

Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

Derek Swanlund is escorted into an Ogle County courtroom by deputy Dan Daub for a pretrial status hearing on Dec. 10. held since his arrest.

Swanlund is charged with three counts of first-degree murder and a misdemeanor charge of using a Smith & Wesson 9 mm handgun without having a Firearm Owner’s Identification card. Swanlund has pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

During an April preliminary hearing, prosecutors said Mt. Morris police officers responded to an apartment complex on Ogle Avenue in Mt. Morris after receiving a 911 call at 4:59 p.m. April 21 from Pasley’s mother in which she said her hus-

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

8

Merry

band had shot her son.

When a Mt. Morris police officer arrived at the scene, she saw Swanlund walking away from the apartment complex while carrying a black and silver handgun in his right hand, according to police.

Assistant State’s Attorney Melissa Voss said a verbal argument inside the apartment evolved to “shoulder bumping” with Pasley, after which Swanlund shot him.

When more officers arrived at the scene, they discovered Pasley inside the apartment, bleeding from multiple gunshot wounds, Voss said.

Pasley was pronounced dead at OSF Saint Katharine Medical Center in Dixon after being taken from the scene by Mt. Morris EMS. Pasley’s mother told police she had entered a different room after arguing with Swanlund and after he “belly bumped” her into her son. She then heard Pasley say “He shot me,” Voss told

the court.

In earlier hearings, Morrow has argued for Swanlund’s pretrial release, noting that Swanlund has no criminal history other than one misdemeanor charge for which he received and completed court supervision.

Morrow said Swanlund bought the gun legally when he lived in North Carolina and had lived in Mt. Morris for 10 years. He said Swanlund cooperated with police when they arrived at the scene.

During an April hearing, Ogle County Detective Chad Gallick testified that autopsy results showed Pasley suffered four gunshot wounds to his torso, one to his abdomen and one to his hand before his death.

Gallick said Pasley had come to his mother’s apartment that day to visit his dog.

Pasley was a 2018 graduate of Oregon High School and a full-time custodian for the Oregon School District at the time of his death.

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9 OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025 OCL

Polo rings in the Christmas season

The Polo Christmas Festival offered activities for kids, shopping, refreshments and more on Dec. 6.

Photos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

TOP LEFT: Tom, Kathleen, Blake and Rhett Wilkinson of Polo shop Dec. 6 at the Doughmama booth at the Polo Christmas Festival’s Craft and Vendor Show. The event was held in the gymnasium of Centennial Grade School.

TOP RIGHT: Polo High School students helped kids decorate Christmas cookies at the Polo Senior Center during the Polo Christmas Festival. ABOVE: Baylee Dunseth, 9, of Davis, and Astrid Griggs, 7, of Polo, roast marshmallows to make smores on Dec. 6 at First State Bank during the Polo Christmas Festival. LEFT: Bea WattMay, 7, decorates a cookie with the help of Polo High School students at the Polo Senior Center.

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

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OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

12

Oregon celebrates the Holidays Oregon’s Candlelight Walk included plenty of holiday shopping, activities, lighting of the Christmas tree and a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus on Dec. 6.

Photos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

TOP LEFT: Evie Cooper, 4, of Byron, smiles Dec. 6 as she visits with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus at the Conover Square Mall during Oregon’s Candlelight Walk. TOP RIGHT: Tim Grote and his children, Brielynn, 7, and and Jase, 3, watch a model train Dec. 6 at the Blackhawk Model Train Club in Conover Square Mall during Oregon’s Candlelight Walk. ABOVE: Visitors to Oregon’s Candlelight Walk on Dec. 6 watched as the Christmas tree was lit on the Ogle County Courthouse lawn. LEFT: Bob Vogl, the husband of the late Sonia Vogl, speaks Dec. 6 before the lighting of the Christmas tree at Oregon’s Candlelight Walk. The tree was dedicated in memory of Sonia Vogl and stands with a sign that reads: “In memory of Sonia Vogl. Her generosity and dedication to our community has not gone unnoticed. Thank you for keeping our community ‘lit up’ over the past several years!”

20 additional years levied for being an armed habitual criminal

By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent A Rockford man will spend at least the next 31 years in prison after being sentenced Tuesday, Dec. 9, for home invasion and armed robbery at a Rochelle home earlier this year.

Mark A. Cooper, 48, of Rockford was sentenced to 58 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections on concurrent sentences of 29 years for the home invasion and armed robbery at a Rochelle home in February. He then will serve an additional 20 years for being an armed habitual criminal.

Cooper must serve 50% of the home invasion and armed robbery sentences

and 85% of the habitual criminal sentence, making him eligible for release in 2054, Assistant State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten said.

The sentences were levied by Mark A. Cooper Associate Judge Anthony Peska, who at the start of the hearing denied Cooper’s motions for a new trial, which prompted Cooper to refuse to remain in the courtroom.

“I don’t want to be here for the sentencing,” Cooper told Peska. “I don’t want to be here.”

Peska warned Cooper that under Illinois law he could be sentenced in absentia. Cooper persisted that he did not want to be at the hearing.

When deputies began to escort Cooper out of the courtroom, he continued

his own evidence during the trial.

“The judge is supposed to support the defendant’s rights,” Cooper argued.

“You conspired with the prosecution to procure a conviction. I was wrong about you, man.”

Peska disagreed, telling Cooper that his arguments had been heard and argued in open court. He also said Leisten had spent additional time and expended extra effort to help Cooper understand trial procedures and enter evidence.

“As a whole, you handicapped me,” Cooper said. “Every motion I made was denied.”

Cooper also wanted to know what “method” jurors had used to determine his guilt.

“That is not something the jury has to answer,” Peska said.

Leisten agreed.

“No one is entitled to know why they

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yelling at Peska and then turned his anger on the deputies.

“Get your hands off me,” he yelled at the deputies. “Let go of me, man. I am going to spit in this [expletive’s] face.

Man, let me go.”

An Ogle County jury convicted Cooper on Oct. 22 after a two-day trial during which he chose to represent himself after repeatedly declining the services of a public defender.

Cooper was charged with entering the home of a Rochelle couple in the 100 block of Seventh Avenue about 6 p.m. Feb. 21, robbing them while brandishing a handgun, and then “pistol-whipping” the husband before leaving with the man’s wallet.

During the trial, Cooper claimed that he entered the townhome to “rescue” a “loved one” who worked as an online escort and had entered the home.

On Wednesday, Cooper told Peska that he was entering motions for a new trial because he was not allowed to enter

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

Rockford man sentenced to 58 years in prison for Rochelle home invasion, armed robbery

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

14

• COOPER

[Mark A. Cooper] is a true danger to whatever community he is in. For two ruled a certain way,” he said.

But Cooper continued to argue, again decades, he has been committing objecting to Peska’s denial of his violent attacks. This was a violent motions, claiming that his constitutional rights had been violated during attack that clearly left a couple the process. traumatized. This is not a situation “These were issues that were brought up during the trial. The rulings that where we are looking at a young were made were proper. I think every- teenager. He’s basically been a thing you allege in your motions is untrue,” Peska said. “Your motions are career criminal.”

Continued from page 13

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denied.”

Conduct in jail

After Cooper was escorted out of the courtroom, the sentencing hearing continued, with Leisten calling two Ogle County correctional officers as witnesses to testify to aggravating factors involving Cooper during his incarceration.

Aggravation is one of the phases of a sentencing hearing at which testimony can be presented to justify a harsher sentence. Mitigating factors – offered by the defense – also can be made in an attempt to receive a lesser sentence.

A female corrections officer testified that Cooper had directed “vulgar” and obscene comments at her while she was making welfare checks on inmates.

When he was told to stop making the lewd, sexual comments, she said, Cooper replied that he “was in jail and could say whatever he wanted to.”

Another corrections officer testified that Cooper was seen on video “defecating on the floor of a cell” and then smearing feces on the walls. That officer said Cooper also had urinated on his dinner tray before returning it to an officer.

Victim impact statement

Leisten read a victim impact statement from the couple, who were present at the sentencing hearing.

The couple said that as Christians they are “taught forgiveness,” but there still should be “consequences for actions.”

“Things beside money were taken from us ... [including] peace of mind,” Leisten read from the statement. “If anyone comes to our door now, our hearts race.”

Matthew Leisten, assistant state’s attorney They said the ordeal has made them paranoid that it could happen again.

“Some things will never be the same for us,” they said in the statement. “We trust the court to weigh all the factors and give a just sentence.”

Leisten said Cooper was a habitual criminal with several violence-related convictions, including second-degree murder in 2002 in Winnebago County.

Jurors were informed that Cooper had previous felony convictions, but they were not provided with the nature of those convictions so as not to prejudice them in the Ogle County case.

“He is a true danger to whatever community he is in,” Leisten said. “For two decades, he has been committing violent attacks. This was a violent attack that clearly left a couple traumatized.”

Leisten noted that a long sentence was needed to deter others.

“This is not a situation where we are looking at a young teenager. He’s basically been a career criminal,” Leisten said, adding that Cooper’s “ridiculous” behavior while in the Ogle County Jail also should be considered.

Peska agreed.

“His background speaks for itself,” Peska said. “He defaced his own cell. He refused to be part of his own sentencing.

His obscenities [were] directed at the court and [he threatened] to spit on a deputy. He put on a full display of his character.

“A person should be secure in their own home,” he continued. “[The couple’s] sense of innocence has been taken from them. They will never get that back.”

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By EARLEEN HINTON

Shaw Local News Network correspondent

By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent An Ogle County man has pleaded not guilty to allegations that he sexually assaulted and abused a woman numerous times between November 2024 and March 2025.

Trevor A. Brandner, 32, was remanded to the Ogle County Jail on Dec. 3 after Associate Judge Anthony Peska ruled that probable cause existed to hold him for trial after testimony and arguments during a preliminary hearing. Brandner is charged with two counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault, six counts of criminal sexual assault, one count of criminal sexual abuse and four counts of domestic battery.

Court documents accuse Brandner of sexually assaulting the victim in addition to striking and kicking her.

Aggravated criminal sexual assault is a Class X felony, criminal sexual assault is a Class 1 felony, criminal sexual abuse is a Class 4 felony, and domestic battery is a misdemeanor Trevor Brandner offense.

B r a n d n e r pleaded not guilty to the charges and demanded a jury trial. Brandner’s attorney, Richard Gill, argued that Brandner should be released from custody with a condition of pretrial release that he have no contact with the woman.

Peska disagreed and remanded Brandner to the Ogle County Jail.

Brandner’s next court appearance is at 1 p.m. Dec. 17 for a pretrial status hearing.

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HANK’S REPAIR

A rural Dixon man accused of shooting three police officers during a standoff at his home in June 2024 will appear in Ogle County court again in February.

Jonathon Gounaris, 33, appeared by video from the Winnebago County Jail on Thursday, Dec. 11, for a pretrial status hearing.

Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock said he was notified earlier in the day that because of a shortage of staff at the Winnebago County Jail, Gounaris could not be transported to the Ogle County Judicial Center in Oregon to appear in person for the hearing.

Rock notified Gounaris’ attorneys, suggesting they also could appear in court via video.

Gounaris is charged with four

c o u n t s o f a t t e m p t e d first-degree murder, three counts of aggravated discharge of a firearm, three counts of aggravated battery and two counts of possessJonathon Gounaris ing a firearm without a firearm owner’s identification card. The charges stem from a June 12, 2024, standoff with police at his home in the Lost Lake subdivision near Dixon.

Gounaris has pleaded not guilty to all charges and has been held in the Winnebago County Jail in Rockford since his arrest.

Gounaris and one of his attorneys, Jack DeBacker of Wolf Criminal Law,

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

Ogle County man pleads Rural Dixon man charged with 15 shooting 3 police officers to not guilty to sexual appear in court again in February assault, abuse charges

Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

16

AREA CHURCH DIRECTORY BYRON

FORRESTON

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:

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

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.

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

“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

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 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

LINDENWOOD IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH – LCMS immanuel-lindenwood.org (for sermons, events, etc.)

16060 E. Lindenwood Road, Lindenwood, IL 61049 815-393-4500 • office@immanuel-lindenwood.org Sunday Mornings: Divine Service @ 9am; Food & Fellowship @ 10am; Sunday School and Adult Bible Study @ 10:30am Food Bank: 1st and 3rd Saturdays, 9am-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

OREGON

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH MT. MORRIS

ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

301 N 4th St, Oregon, IL 61061 - Phone 815-732-7383 - Fr. Bernard Sehr; Mailing/Office Address: 8 81 Mongan Dr, Oregon IL 61061

OREGON

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

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

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

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH, NALC 114 S. 5th St. Oregon, IL Phone: (815) 732-2367 Website: stpaulnalcoregonil.weebly.com 10:15 a.m. Fellowship/Education hours 11:30 a.m. Worship

POLO ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH 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

OREGON CHURCH OF GOD

STILLMAN VALLEY

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 Study 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: 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

Pastor Rev. Dr. Chris Brauns | Associate Pastor David Bogner 207 W Roosevelt Road (Rte 72), Stillman Valley.

815-645-2526 | www.theredbrickchurch.org Sunday: Worship at 9:00 and 10:30 am. Sunday School at 9:00 am.

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

Men, women, youth Bible Studies throughout the year.

See website for all activities or contact the church office.

KISHWAUKEE COMMUNITY EVANGELICAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 8195 Kishwaukee Road, Stillman Valley, IL 61084 / 815-965-1940 Rev. Nick Garner, Pastor www.kishchurch.org Sunday Schedule: Discipleship Hour 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

WINNEBAGO MIDDLE CREEK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 12473 Montague Road, Winnebago, IL 61088 Located West of Tower Road on Montague Rd. Sunday: Worship Service at 10:30 am.

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

17

• DIXON

Chicago, appeared via Zoom in front of Judge John “Ben” Roe with Rock and Assistant State’s Attorney Heather Kruse for the afternoon hearing.

DeBacker told the court that the defense still is waiting for a report it ordered and suggested the next hearing be set for January.

Roe said his office, as well as Rock and Kruse, would be involved in a lengthy jury trial in January and suggested Feb. 4 for the next hearing date.

DeBacker, Rock and Kruse agreed to that date.

Gounaris was arrested after authorities were dispatched at 9 a.m. June 12, 2024, to his home at 402 Wild Rice Lane with a warning that they could be facing a “suicide by cop” situation.

The sheriff’s office activated the emergency response team, which is made up of individuals from different agencies that include the sheriff’s office, Oregon and Byron police departments, and SWAT medics from the Rochelle Fire Department.

During an exchange of gunfire with Gounaris, tactical medic Tyler Carls of the Rochelle Fire Department was struck twice in his body armor; Sgt. Tad

Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

Jonathon Gounaris (upper left) and his attorney, Jack DeBacker, appeared in Ogle County Court via video on Thursday, Dec. 11.

Dominski, then a member of the Oregon Police Department, suffered a gunshot wound to the upper arm; and Lt. Jason Ketter of the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office suffered a gunshot wound to the face.

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Gounaris also was struck during the exchange and suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen. He was treated at KSB Hospital in Dixon before being transported and booked into the Winnebago County Jail in Rockford.

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Who Is Jesus?

Christmas is an exciting time for most people; the lights, the shopping, the gifts and getting together with family. Of course, Christmas is actually a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. In the hurry and scurry of the season, we too often forget this.

Who is this Jesus?

In the Gospel of John, Jesus tells us who He is Himself, by giving us common, everyday illustrations of His work with people. He tells us: “I am the Bread of Life” (John 6:35) Jesus fills our hearts with all things needful for fulfillment and happiness in life.

“I am the Light of the world” (John 8:12) Jesus brings light to our hearts, so that we can make wise decisions with life’s questions.

“I am the Door” (John 10:9) Jesus is the doorway in the wall of sin that keeps us away from God and His goodness.

“I am the Good Shepherd” (John 10:11) Jesus leads us as a shepherd leads his sheep and protects us from the temptations of the devil.

“I am the Way, the Truth and the Life” (John 14:6) Jesus opens a path through the most difficult circumstances we face, His words are a landmark of truth in the clamor of the world’s voices, and by His death and resurrection He offers us eternal life! What a wonderful Savior!

The Christmas story is more than an interesting myth. Jesus is more than a baby in a manger. The salvation He offers is more than theology. Jesus wants to offer practical solutions to everyday problems we face: loneliness, addictions, bad relationships, grief, loss and fear. If we believe in Jesus, and yield our life in obedience to Him, He will be our Savior from all the problems that human sin has brought to the world.

Ketter was flown to OSF Medical Center in Rockford, where he underwent surgery and was released two days later. Dominski and Carls were treated at KSB Hospital in Dixon and released later the same day.

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

Continued from page 15

Byron power plant gear arrives by ‘heavy haul’ team

By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent Motorists traveling in Lee and Ogle counties last week had to navigate around or wait out an oversized load en route to the Constellation Clean Energy Station on German Church Road, south of Byron.

A very large turbine – part of a $355 million turbine project at the nuclear power plant – made its way through northeastern Lee County before heading north on Daysville Road to state Route 64, east of Oregon.

The 300-foot trailer carrying the turbine was pulled and pushed by two semitractors that were escorted by advance crews, some of which raised traffic lights and wires at the Daysville/ Route 64 intersection as the behemoth turned east en route to German Church Road.

The Ogle County Sheriff’s Office warned motorists of the oversized load.

“This shipment will impact the intersection of Daysville and Illinois Route 64. Expect a minimum of a 30-minute delay,” the sheriff’s department posted

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

18

Constellation’s Power Uprate Project, slated to begin in 2026 and be completed in 2029, will include replacing six low-pressure turbines and two high-pressure turbines.

The new turbines will generate an additional 79 to 80 megawatts of energy and part of the project will be updating the electrical system to accommodate that increase, Byron Site Vice President Harris Welt said in a news release earlier this year.

Construction of the Byron plant began in 1975 by Commonwealth Edison. It includes two reactors – Unit 1, which began operating in September 1985, and Unit 2, coming online in August 1987.

U.S. nuclear energy facilities initially Earleen Hinton are licensed to operate for 40 years and a On Dec. 8, two semi tractors pulling and pushing the trailer carrying a large turbine for Nuclear Regulatory Commission rule Constellation’s Byron generating station head north on German Church Road en route to the allows licensees to apply for initial and nuclear power plant. subsequent license renewals of up to 20 on its Ogle Safe app. east on state Route 64 before turning years each after the initial 40-year term.

The turbines were transported by the north onto German Church Road en The NRC approved initial license “Heavy Haul Team” of Barnhart Crane route to the plant. Traffic was stopped renewal on Nov. 19, 2015, authorizing and Rigging Co., Memphis. on German Church Road as the large Byron Unit 1 to operate through 2044 After making the turn at the Days- piece of equipment turned into the and Unit 2 to operate through 2046, Conville Road intersection, the team headed plant’s main entrance. stellation said on its website.

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As we wrap up another year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all my incredible clients who entrusted me with the privilege of helping them buy or sell their homes in 2025. Together, we successfully closed 41 properties, and I feel both blessed and grateful to have been a part of so many meaningful journeys.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year ahead!

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

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Work moves to the top of historic courthouse The picturesque courthouse was built in 1891 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981.

Last week’s frigid temperatures didn’t It has undergone several renovations stop the crew from Sterling Commercial during its life and still houses the county Roofing from working on the cupola of the offices of County Clerk and Recorder, and historic Ogle County Courthouse in Ore- Treasurer. gon.

In October, the Ogle County Board Workers braved the winter temps to awarded the 2025 roof contract to Sterling remove the old shingles on the 134-year- Commercial Roofing, which was the low old building and cover it with underlay- bidder for the project at $813,125, with a ment Friday, Dec. 12. $30,000 general contingency allowance.

By EARLEEN HINTON

Shaw Local News Network correspondent

Photos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

LEFT: Scaffolding surrounds the historic Ogle County Courthouse in Oregon as the 134-year-old building is in the process of getting a new roof. ABOVE: Workers for Sterling Commercial Roofing work on the cupola of the historic Ogle County Courthouse on Friday, Dec. 12, in Oregon.

The roof is being replaced on the 134-year-old building.

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

20

MERRY

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There will be a freewill offering that The menu includes egg casseroles, sau- will be donated to the New Life Food PanFaith Lutheran Church in Forreston sage, ham, pastries and fresh fruit, try. once again is hosting a Christmas brunch. ensuring there’s something for everyFaith Lutheran is located at 402 Sec-

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ond Ave. in Forreston. The church is ADA-accessible and has an elevator to access the basement, making it convenient for all guests. All are welcome to attend to share in the food and fellowship.

OBITUARIES Born: December 16, 1963 in Worth, IL Died: December 12, 2025 in Chicago, IL Nancy G. Bendis was born in Worth, Il. the daughter of David and Nancy (McBride) Karstrand on December 16, 1963. After graduating from UIC college she married her husband Edward on October 17, 1987. They lived and raised their four children in Oregon, Il : Jillian (Adam) Pflugshaupt, David,

Brianna and Michael. Nancy was the beloved and cherished Nana to her six grandchildren: Izzy, Cooper, AJ, Aria, Eddie and Willow. Nancy dedicated her life to her family. She was filled with love, joy, kindness and an unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. Nancy enjoyed gardening, bird watching, reading and journaling on her back porch. She loved kayaking with friends on the Rock River and sailing on Paw Paw Lake in Michigan at her parent’s lake house.

Nancy enjoyed entertaining family and friends with good food and laughter. Nancy loved attending parties with her extended family and cherished her church family at Evangelical Free Church of Mt. Morris. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of her family and friends.

Nancy is survived by her beloved husband Ed, four children, six grandchildren, mother

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AM. Immediately following the services at the church, Nancy will be laid to rest at Riverview Cemetery of Oregon, IL. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation to Serenity Hospice and Home of Oregon, IL. To leave an online condolence, plant a tree in her memory, or donate to Serenity Hospice and Home, please visit www.farrellhollandgale.com.

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Nancy Karstrand, sisters Sue Karstrand and Maureen (Larry) Coleman and brothers Steve and Robert Karstrand. Nancy has many sister and brother in-laws, aunt, nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her father Dave Karstrand, and brother Davy Karstrand. A visitation will take place on Sunday, December 21, 2025 at Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home of 110 S. 7th St, Oregon, IL, 61061 between the hours of 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM. A funeral service honoring Nancy’s life will take place the following day, Monday, December 22, 2025, beginning at 11:00 AM at the Evangelical Free Church of 102 S. Seminary Ave, Mt. Morris, IL, 61054 with Pastor Bruce McKenna presiding.

Prior to the services at the church a visitation will take place between 10:00 AM and 11:00

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OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

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OBITUARIES PAMELA “PAM” LISING

Born:March March 5, 1968 in Philippines Born: 5, 1968 in Philippines Died: December 11, 2025 in Leaf River, Died: December 11, 2025 in Leaf River, IL IL

LEAF RIVER, IL – Pamela “Pam” Lising Ellorando, age 57, passed away LEAFpeacefully, RIVER, IL ~ surrounded by her loving Pamela “Pam” Lising family, on Thursday, Ellorando, age 57, December 11, 2025, at passed away peaceher home in Leaf River, fully, surrounded

by IL. She born on March herwas loving family, on 5,Thursday, 1968, in the Philippines, December 11, the daughter Pedroin& 2025, at herofhome Amelia (Rocha) Leaf River, IL. Lising.

She was Pam grew up in the born on March 5, 1968, Philippines and went on the Philippines, toingraduate from the daughter Women’ of Pedros& Philippines Amelia (Rocha) University with a Lising.

IT’S YOUR WRITE

Pam grew up in the

La Sagrada Familia

To the Editor: Every year I am asked what I would like for Christmas. Each year my reply is “Peace on Earth.” I understand peace to mean not merely the absence of conflict, but also a wholeness to creation. Each Christmas Eve I believe that you can both sense the expectation that people have for such peace, and for a moment or two a sense of the peace that God spreads

Church of Byron, IL. close out the visitation hours beginning at is preceded in death by her parents 8:00 PM. A20,Mass Christian at Burial &She Amelia, and brothers, Daniel Lising, AlamoPedro “Tok December 2025,ofbeginning 11:00will AMtake at &Tok” Amelia, DanielLising.

Lising,Pam Alamo place the following day, December Lising,and andbrothers, Jesus “Jessie” is the church with Father MioSaturday, Pavino presiding.

“Tok Tok”and Lising, anddearly Jesusby “Jessie” Lising.

20, 2025, beginning 11:00 AMPam at the survived missed her loving Immediately followingatthe Mass, willchurch be laid with Mio Pavino presiding.

Immediately Pam is survived and missed by(Zheng) her husband Nep Ellorando; sonsdearly Kenneth to restFather at St. Mary’ s Catholic Cemetery of Byron, loving husband Ellorando; sonsNolasco Kenneth following the Mass, Pam will be laid to rest Ellorando; Dean Nep Ellorando; brothers IL. (Zheng) Ellorando; Dean Ellorando; brothers St. Mary’sare Catholic Cemetery Byron, “Noli” Lising; Celso “Choy” (Millett) Lising; sisters atMemorials established in herofname andIL. Nolasco (Millett) Memorials are established her name and of Perscilla “Noli” “Ni Ni”Lising; (Caref)Celso Monta“Choy” de Ramos; Fe may be directed to St. Mary’sinCatholic Church Lising; Perscilla “Ni Ni” (Caref)Jocelyn Monta may beIL.directed Mary’s Catholicor Church (Rene) sisters Lenon; Araceli “Cely” Barbosa; Byron, To leaveto anSt. online condolence plant de Ramos; FeElwertowski; (Rene) Lenon; Araceli“Jeng” “Cely” Byron, IL. To leave anplease onlinevisit condolence “Talin” (Paul) Angelica aoftree in Pam’ s memory, www.

Barbosa; Jocelyn “Talin” (Paul)expected Elwertowski; or plant a tree in Pam’s memory, please visit (Edwin) Orbe; a granddaughter next farrellhollandgale.com.

March; and many(Edwin) dear nieces Angelica “Jeng” Orbe;&anephews. granddaughter www.farrellhollandgale.com.

A visitation be taking thenieces evening expected nextwill March; and place manyon dear & of Friday, December 19, 2025, between the hours nephews. ofA5:00 PM and PM at St. Mary’ Catholic visitation will8:00 be taking place onsthe eveChurch of 220 E. 2nd St, Byron, IL, 61010.

Rosary ning of Friday, December 19, 2025, between prayers willoftake to close the hours 5:00place PM and 8:00out PMthe at visitation St. hours beginning at 8:00 of PM.220 A Mass Christian Mary’s Catholic Church E. 2ndofSt, Byron, Burial will take place the following day, Saturday, IL, 61010. Rosary prayers will take place to

upon the Earth. It is fleeting, but it’s real. I also believe that I cannot fully know such peace, until all humanity knows this peace.

A prayer for this time of year suggests that we pray for the needs of the whole world, for peace and justice on Earth. And because Jesus particularly loves them, the poor and helpless, the hungry, the oppressed, the sick and those who mourn, the lonely and unloved, the aged and little children, as well as those who do not

know and love the Lord Jesus Christ. Christmas is the story of God’s loving purpose that heals all these things by his holy Child Jesus.

Part of the Christmas story we skip over is the account of the Holy Family (La Sagrada Familia) fleeing to Egypt because Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.

I am more aware of this part of Christmas this year because I see it being played out yet again. They were migrants, seeking political

asylum and running for their lives; but more importantly they were seeking how to dwell among us. God is on the move, joining us in our plight. Being the Word that becomes flesh will dwell among us.

God wanders wherever we wander. And so, peace is possible. Both the receiving of peace, but just as importantly the giving of peace.

Rev. Ronald D. Larson Mt. Morris

23 OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

PAMELA “PAM” LISING ELLORANDO ELLORANDO

Philippines and went on to graduate from Philippines Women’s University with bachebachelor’ s degree in nursing in 1989.

Shea worked degree inNurse nursing in 1989.

She Hospital worked as aslor’s a Regisered at Cook County for at Cook Hospital 12a Registered years beforeNurse working at KSBCounty hospital in Dixon, years before working at KSB hospital ILforfor12another 13 years.

On November 11, 1992, in Dixon, IL forNephtali another“Nep” 13 years.

On November she married Ellorando, and the 11, 1992, she married Nephtalimany “Nep” Ellorando, two started a family, spending wonderful and the two started a family, many years together.

Throughout her spending life, Pam enjoyed wonderful years together. her life, being creative, whether it be Throughout by singing, sewing, Pam enjoyed beingdecorating creative, for whether it be by gardening, or even different singing,and sewing, gardening, seasons events.

Pam lovedortoeven plandecorating parties, events, and trips that she takePam withloved her to for different seasons andwould events. family.

She could also often be found in thewould plan parties, events, and trips that she kitchen, cooking for herShe family, shealso loved to make take with her family. could often be food andinshare it with those shefor loved.

Pam was found the kitchen, cooking her family, ashe woman shefood wasand formerly at lovedoftofaith, make shareaitmember with those St. s Catholic of Dixon,ofIL,faith, before shePat’ loved.

PamChurch was a woman she was joining St. aMary’ s Catholic of Byron,Church IL. formerly member at St.Church Pat’s Catholic She is preceded in death by her parents Pedro of Dixon, IL, before joining St. Mary’s Catholic

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

24 OBITUARIES DALLAS “LANT” ALANSON HUNTLEY

The year of 1978, Lant became certified with the International Society of Arboriculture where he remained active throughout the next Born: March 15, 1939 in Pine Rock Township, IL forty years. Lant, a Certified Arborist, was the Died: December 15, 2025 in Rockford, IL owner of Huntley Woods Tree Research Facility Dallas “Lant” Alanson near Oregon, Illinois. Lant once said, “He never Huntley, 86, of Oregon, thought of it as a job--it was a way of life.”

Dallas is survived by his three daughters: Illinois, passed away Melissa (John) Green of Fernandina Beach, Monday, December 15, FL, Carrie Grimail of Tampa, FL and Suzan 2025 at Anam Care in (Michael) Monsky of Clearwater Beach, FL; six Rockford, IL. Dallas was born March grandchildren: Elizabeth, Hunter, Logan, Olivia, Garrett and Nicole; and sister-in-law, Norma 15, 1939, to Roland and Grace (Strang) Huntley in the family farm Huntley of Chana.

Dallas was preceded in death by his parents; house five miles southwest of Chana on what two sisters: Margene Rager, and Dellouise is now known as Sportsman Club Road in Ogle Greenfield and brother, Don Huntley.

County. Later in life, Dallas would be known as Visitation will be from 5:00 to 5:50 P.M., “Lant” as he was named after his great uncle, Thursday, December 18, 2025 at Unger-Horner Alanson Huntley, also called Lant.

Lant was raised on the family farm where he Funeral Home, 400 N. 6th St., Rochelle with the funeral immediately following at 6:00 P.M. developed a deep love for the outdoor world.

He attended both Rochelle and Ashton schools with Pastor Dave Rogula officiating. Cremation care will be provided after the funeral service. and managed Spring Lake in Rochelle during A private burial will be at a later date at Washsummers. Lant attended Northern Illinois, Southern Illinois University and Western Illinois ington Grove Cemetery, a rural cemetery near University. Upon graduation, he taught school, Chana. In lieu of flowers, donations may be served as District Scout Executive for the Boy made to Chana Methodist Church, Chana, IL. Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online Scouts of America and was Park Ranger at guest book.

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PAUL J. MAAS, JR. Born: September 11, 1938 in Stillman Valley, IL Died: December 16, 2025 in Byron, IL Byron, Illinois – Paul J. Maas, Jr., age 87, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. He was born September 11, 1938, on the family farm near Stillman Valley, IL the son of Paul and Josephine (Bulthaus) Maas, Sr. He graduated from Stillman Valley High School in 1956 where he was a 4-sport athlete competing in football, basketball, baseball, and track. He was also class president for two years, vice president of the FFA, and participated in the band and musicals. After graduation he served his country by joining the U.S. Army.

On August 28, 1960, he married the love of his life Mary Nutt, and they shared 65 years together. Paul worked over 30 years for UPS as a package delivery driver. He was a member of the Kishwaukee Community Evangelical Presbyterian Church. Paul also served his community as an alderman for the Byron City Council.

He was an avid Bears, White Sox, and Fighting Illini fan. Paul enjoyed playing golf. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family,

especially his grandchildren, often traveling to Florida to see them. He was predeceased by his parents and recently by his sister Jacquelyn Schumacher. He is survived by his wife Mary of Byron; his children: Vickie (Greg) Hilliard of Stillman Valley, IL; Kim Osterman (Mike Rossman) of Wesley Chapel, FL; and Scott Maas (Amy Long) of Byron; grandchildren: Michelle (Kyle) Miller of Dekalb, IL; Karl Hilliard of Stillman Valley, IL; Jennifer (Collin Speight) and A.J. Osterman of Wesley Chapel, Florida; and Blake Osterman of the U.S. Air Force service serving in Tucson, Arizona; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Kishwaukee Community Evangelical Presbyterian Church with the Pastor Nick Garner officiating. Visitation will be prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. – noon at the church on Tuesday. Burial will follow the service at the Byron Cemetery. A memorial fund is established for the Serenity Hospice and Home near Oregon, IL and the Village of Progress in Oregon, IL. Visit www.farrellhollandgale.com to leave a condolence or a memory of Paul.

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OBITUARIES the air for German bombers. Akron was the rubber capital and a prime enemy target. After Born: December 26, 1938 in Akron, OH the war, the family moved to Glencoe and LaDied: December 11, 2025 in Oregon, IL Grange, IL, before making Oregon their home.

Agnes Hull (Simmons) Aggie was in fifth grade when her father was relocated to Oregon as a Plant Manager for Bettner, 86, passed Quaker Oats. The family lived in the Sinnissippi peacefully on DecemHotel for two months before moving into Clyde ber 11 in her Oregon Meyers’ house on north sixth street. There, her home. Agnes (Aggie) was born on December childhood friends, Norma Armour, Pat Kinn, and Claudia Nice ice skated on their flooded 26, 1938, in Akron, Ohio, to George H. Sim- side yard. They hopped the fences to avoid paying admissions at the Ogle County Fair, mons and Agnes A. Simmons. The family left and did primitive camping with the Girl Scouts Akron and moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on at Camp McCormick. In high school, Aggie December 6,1941. Pearl Harbor was bombed on December 7. The family immediately moved loved playing the drums in the band and was instrumental in creating the Oregon fight song. back to Akron to live with Fisk and Fairy Hull, She met her future husband, Ed Bettner, who her grandparents. The men left for war, and played football for the Oregon Hawks. During the women and children worked the family their senior year in 1957, they ran against Hull Restaurant. Aggie has fond memories of playing with cousins Dickie and Dinny, and her each other for Class President. Ed won by one vote. Let’s just say, he never let her forget it! brother, Hezzie, and sister, Susan (Cooie), in the restaurant basement playing hide and seek Ed and Aggie were married on December 14, 1957. During their 58 years of marriage, they with table linens hanging on lines to dry. This was much to the chagrin of their mothers, who welcomed and raised five children. Aggie also worked outside the home as a telephone operthen had to rewash, dry and iron the tableator, a TMH aide, and a postal clerk. Aggie and cloths—an all day job! She also remembered her dear friend, Rachel Birkhead, also started the nights that her grandfather took her from the restaurant to see the kleig lights searching Hillside Nursery School in the basement of

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Angel’s Treasures. In her final years, Aggie became passionate about serving the homeless and needy in her community. She spent hours making soups and sack lunches, which she delivered a few times a week to the Mini Center at Conover. Aggie was preceded in death by her parents and husband. Survived by her five children: Catherine (John) DeVries, Madison, MS; Elizabeth (Betsy) (John) Hegel, Naples, FL; Mary Bettner, Charlottesville, VA; Edwin (Tina) Bettner, Oregon, IL; Jonathan (Maria Leo) Bettner, Oregon, IL. Ten Grandchildren: Bryan DeVries, Brett DeVries, Scott Hegel, Emily Hegel, Randi VanHorn, David Bettner, Adam Bettner, Bella Bettner, Jack Bettner, Claire Bettner. Great-Grandchildren: Caroline DeVries, Carson DeVries, Harper DeVries, Hudson DeVries, Tate Bettner, Dane VanHorn, Ripp VanHorn. Siblings: George Simmons, Grafton, WI; Susan (Bob) Weirath, Akron, OH. Per Aggie’s wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the River’s Edge in Oregon, IL from 2:00-5:00 PM with a Sharing of Memories at 3:00 PM

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her home on Monroe Street. In 1984 Aggie opened her own woman’s store, Bettner’s, in Conover Square. For ten years, Aggie was an administrative assistant at the Byron Nuclear Plant and retired in1999. A strong advocate of education, Aggie followed in the footsteps of her mother, who was the first woman to serve on the Oregon School Board. She served many years, awarding her children their diplomas at high school graduation. In 1947, while living in LaGrange, Aggie’s dad and his friend, Bob Beasley, hatched plans to build the first cabins on Steuben Lake located in the UP of Michigan deep within the Hiawatha National Forest.

Very primitive—garbage dumps, black bears and potty houses! This was Aggie’s true happy place, where weeks of every summer were spent, both as a child and as an adult. In 2018 the entire family and her siblings gathered at “The Cabin” to reminisce and celebrate her 80th birthday. The cabin is still in the family— five generations and counting! No matter the age, family was always at the center of Aggie’s life. Immensely proud of the accomplishments of her children and grandchildren, Aggie cherished their visits, regaling in the stories of their shenanigans. She also coveted the times spent with cousins and dear friends and neighbors over the years. She was always up for a trip to

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

AGNES “AGGIE” BETTNER

Garfield

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

26

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

27

WORD FIND

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Solution: 14 Letters

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OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

28

sued on December Court.Claims December 3, 2025, on or before June 5, 2025 to Susan against the estate and the Repre- 15, 2026, that date Hagen, as Inde- may be filed in the sentative for the being at least six pendent Adminis- office of the Clerk, estate is Denise (6) months from the trator, whosead- or with the repreMiller, 8898 S. date of the first dress is 409 N. sentative,or Lynn St., Rochelle, publication. both Barber Ave., Polo, within six months IL 61068. The at- Claims against the IL 61064, and from the date of torney for the es- estate may be filed STATE OF whose attorney is the first publicatate is Amanda J. with the Clerk of ILLINOIS Kelly Flessner of tion, no later than Martinez, 5732 E. the Circuit Court, IN THE CIRCUIT IN THE CIRCUIT EhrmannGehlbach Riverside Blvd., 106 S. 5th Street, June 15, 2025 anCOURT OF THE COURT OF THE Badger & Consi- dany claim not filed #201, Loves Park, Oregon, IL 61061, FIFTEENTH 15TH JUDICIAL dine, LLC, 114 E. within that period IL 61111. or with the RepreCIRCUIT JUDICIAL Everett St., Suite is barred. Copies PUBLIC NOTICE The estate will be sentative, or both.

OGLE COUNTY, CIRCUIT 300, Dixon, Illinois of a claim filed with Sealed bids will be administered with- Any claim not filed OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS 61021.The estate the clerk must be- received by the out Court Supervi- within that period In the Matter of: ILLINOIS will be adminis- mailed or delivered Ogle County Highsion, unless under is barred. Copies HAROLD H. tered without court to the representa- way Department, section 28-4 of the of a claim filed with IN THE MATTER FLEENOR, supervision unless tive and to the at- Oregon, Illinois unProbate Act of the Clerk must be OF THE ESTATE Deceased. under Chapter 755 torney within ten til 2:00 P.M., Jan1975 (755ILCS mailed or delivered OF MILDRED 2025 PR 64 5/28-4) any inter- to the Representa- PAAR, ILCS5/28-4 of the days after it has uary 9, 2026, for PUBLICATION probate act, any beenfiled. the purchase of the ested person may tive and to the at- Deceased.

PUBLIC NOTICE (6397) 2025 PR 67 interested person new NOTICE - CLAIMS terminate indepen- torney within ten Kelly L. Flessner following The annual Ogle Notice is given of dent administration (10) days after it terminates indeAttorney for equipment: NOTICE County Township the death of Harold at any time by has been filed.

Administrator 1) 1-Ton Dump pendent adminisOF CLAIM Assessors Meeting H. Fleenor, who mailing or deliver- Attorney Amanda Truck.

Notice is given of tration at anytime Prepared by: LEGALonNOTICES LEGALa NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGALdeath NOTICESof Mil- by LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGALbe NOTICES OREGON will held on mailing or deliv- Ms. 2) Tandem Axle died August 19, ing petition to J. Martinez Kelly L. the Thursday, January Dump Truck with dred Paar, who ering a petition to Flessner 2024, a resident of terminate to the ARDC#: 6287970 Ogle County, Illi- Circuit Court Clerk. The Law Office of 13' body. died on September terminate to the (ARDC 631282) 8th at 2:00 P.M. at OREGON nois. Letters of Of3) 80 hp Tractor.

2, 2025. Letters Circuit Clerk of the Attorney for Claims against the Amanda Adams 105 S. 5th St, Ore3 BR, 2 BA, living fice were issued on estate may be filed Martinez LLC Specifications for gon, IL. We will County Petitioner ofOffice were is- Ogle rm, kitchen, dining December 3, 2025, on or before June 5732 E. Riverside Ehrmann Gehlbach the new equipment meet on the 3rd sued on December Court.Claims area. Heat & water and the Repre- 15, 2026, that date Blvd., #201 are available at the floor 5, 2025 to Susan against the estate Badger & conference furn. Avail Feb 1. sentative for the being at least six Loves Park, IL Ogle County High- room. The meeting Hagen, as Inde- may be filed in the Considine, LLC 815-757-0658 estate is Denise (6) months from the 61111 office of the Clerk, Department, is held pursuant to way 114 E. Everett St., pendent Adminis1989 South IL Rt. 35 ILCS 200/9-15 8898 S. date of the first 815-491-8065 Miller, whosead- or with the repre- Suite 300 trator, Lynn St., Rochelle, publication.

2, Oregon, IL beamartinez@adams both Dixon, IL 61021 dress is 409 N. sentative,or which states, in LEGAL NOTICES IL 61068. The at- Claims against the martinezlaw.com tween the hours of Barber Ave., Polo, within six months 815-288-4949 torney for the es- estate may be filed December 15, 22, IL 7:00 A.M. and 3:30 part, that the su61064, and from the date of flessner@egbclaw. tate is Amanda J. with the Clerk of 29, 2025 whose attorney is the first publica- com P.M. Monday - Fri- pervisor of assessSTATE OF day. Also available ments shall “asMartinez, 5732 E. the Circuit Court, Kelly Flessner of tion, no later than ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT Riverside Blvd., 106 S. 5th Street, June 15, 2025 anEhrmannGehlbach Dec. 15, 22, 29, online at www.ogle semble all assesIN THE CIRCUIT and their COURT OF THE #201, Loves Park, Oregon, IL 61061, Call sors Badger & Consi- dany claim not filed 2025 countyil.gov.

COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH IL 61111. or with the Repre815-732-2851 with deputies for condine, LLC, 114 E. within that period 15TH JUDICIAL JUDICIAL questions.

The estate will be sentative, or both.

The sultation and shall Everett St., Suite is barred. Copies PUBLIC NOTICE CIRCUIT CIRCUIT administered with- Any claim not filed 300, Dixon, Illinois of a claim filed with Sealed bids will be Road and Bridge instruct them in OGLE COUNTY, OGLE COUNTY, re- uniformity of their out Court Supervi- within that period 61021.The estate the clerk must be- received by the Committee ILLINOIS sion, unless under is barred. Copies ILLINOIS will be adminis- mailed or delivered Ogle County High- serves the right to functions.” No acIn the Matter of: section 28-4 of the of a claim filed with IN THE MATTER tered without court to the representa- way Department, accept or reject tion will be taken.

HAROLD H. Probate Act of the Clerk must be OF THE ESTATE supervision unless tive and to the at- Oregon, Illinois un- any or all bids.

The meeting is FLEENOR, (755ILCS mailed or delivered OF MILDRED 1975 under Chapter 755 torney within ten til 2:00 P.M., Jan- Dec. 22, 29, 2025, open to the public.

Deceased. after it has days the RepresentaJan. 5, 2026 to any interof the 5/28-4) ILCS5/28-4 uary 9, 2026, for PAAR, Truly, Tricia M. 2025 PR 64 ested person may Deceased. beenfiled. tive and to the atprobate act, any the purchase of the Black, Chief CounPUBLICATION indepenterminate 67 2025 PR ten Kelly L. Flessner person interested within torney following new PUBLIC NOTICE ty Assessment OfNOTICE - CLAIMS Attorney for equipment: terminates indeThe annual Ogle ficer December 17, NOTICE Notice is given of dent administration (10) days after it Administrator any time by been filed. has at adminispendent 1) 1-Ton Dump County OF CLAIM Township the death of Harold 2025 Truck.

Assessors Meeting Notice is given of tration at anytime Prepared by: H. Fleenor, who mailing or deliver- Attorney Amanda Dec. 14, 19, 22, 2) Tandem Axle will be held on the death of Mil- by mailing or deliv- Ms. Kelly L. died on August 19, ing a petition to J. Martinez 2025 Dump Truck with Thursday, January dred Paar, who ering a petition to Flessner 2024, a resident of terminate to the ARDC#: 6287970 13' body.

8th at 2:00 P.M. at died on September terminate to the (ARDC 631282) Ogle County, Illi- Circuit Court Clerk. The Law Office of Claims against the Amanda 105 S. 5th St, Ore3) 80 hp Tractor.

2, 2025. Letters Circuit Clerk of the Attorney for AUCTIONS AUCTIONS AUCTIONSAdams nois.

Letters of OfCounty Petitioner Specifications for gon, IL. We will ofOffice were is- Ogle fice were issued on estate may be filed Martinez LLC Ehrmann Gehlbach the new equipment meet on the 3rd sued on December Court.Claims December 3, 2025, on or before June 5732 E. Riverside Badger & 15, 2026, that date Blvd., #201 against the estate are available at the floor conference 5, 2025 to Susan LIVE ONLINE and the RepreOgle County High- room. The meeting Hagen, as Inde- may be filed in the Considine, LLC sentative for the being at least six Loves Park, IL way Department, is held pursuant to pendent Adminis- office of the Clerk, 114 E. Everett St., estate is Denise (6) months from the 61111 1989 South IL Rt. 35 ILCS 200/9-15 trator, whosead- or with the repre- Suite 300 Miller, 8898 S. date of the first 815-491-8065 publication.

Dixon, IL 61021 amartinez@adams sentative,or both 2, Oregon, IL be- which states, in dress is 409 N. Lynn St., Rochelle, tween the hours of part, that the suBarber Ave., Polo, within six months 815-288-4949 IL 61068. The at- Claims against the martinezlaw.com December 15, 22, IL 7:00 A.M. and 3:30 pervisor of assess61064, and from the date of flessner@egbclaw. torney for the es- estate may be filed CT 2025 29, P.M. Monday - Fri- ments shall “aswhose attorney is the first publica- com 12,Clerk 2026ofAT 10:00 AM tate MONDAY, is Amanda JANUARY J. with the day. Also available semble all assesKelly Flessner of tion, no later than Martinez, 5732 E. the Circuit Court, Dec. 15, 22, 29, online at www.ogle sors June 15, 2025 anand their EhrmannGehlbach Riverside Blvd., 106 S. 5th Street, 2025 countyil.gov.

Call deputies for conBadger & Consi- dany claim not filed #201, Loves Park, Oregon, IL 61061, or with the Repre815-732-2851 with sultation and shall dine, LLC, 114 E. within that period IL 61111. questions.

The instruct them in Everett St., Suite is barred. Copies The estate will be sentative, or both.

Any claim not filed of a claim filed with Road and Bridge uniformity of their 300, Dixon, Illinois administered withwithin that period clerk must Committee re- functions.”

61021.The estate No acWhen you want tothe experience a steakbethat delivers out Court Supervi-ACRES± 61% OFF 78 TAXABLE • 1 TRACT serves the right to tion will be taken. will be adminis- mailed or delivered sion, unless under is barred. Copies rich, juicy, exquisite flavor and unparalleled quality of a claim filed with accept or Cut reject The (5 meeting is tered without court to the representasection 28-4Family of thefarm 4 Butcher’s Top Sirloins oz.)

The Dose is located 4 miles east of McNabb, tivedon’t andwant to just the any at-steak. any or all bids. open to the public. supervisionin every unless bite, you Probate Act of the Clerk must be 4 Air-Chilled Chicken Breasts (4 oz.)

BURGERS mailed delivered Dec. 22, 29, 2025, Truly, Tricia M. under Chapter 755 torney within ten IL or 11(755ILCS miles south of or Peru, IL. The land is further 1975 You want daysOmaha afterSteaks. it has Jan. 5, 2026 Pork Chops Black, ILCS5/28-4 of the 4 Boneless (4 oz.) Chief Coun5/28-4) any inter- to the Representadescribed as being located in Section 4, T31N-R1E, tive and to the atbeenfiled.

Assessment probate act, any ested person may 4 Individual Scalloped ty Potatoes (3.8 oz.) Oftorney within ten ficer December 17, Kelly L. Flessner interested person terminate indepen-LaSalle Hope Township, County, Illinois.

4 Caramel Apple Tartlets (4 oz.)

(10) days after it Attorney for 2025 terminates indedent administration been miss filed. this investment grade Administrator 14, 19, 22, pendent adminis1 Omaha Steaks SeasoningDec. (3 oz.) & investors, at Farmers any time by hasdon't Attorney Amanda 2025 tration at anytime Prepared by: mailing or deliver8 FREE Omaha Steaks Smash Burgers (3.2 oz.) farm with 100% Class A Soils! by mailing or deliv- Ms. Kelly L. ing a petition to J. Martinez ering a petition to Flessner terminate to the ARDC#: 6287970 79797FYF separately $227.94 Office of terminate to the (ARDC 631282) Circuit CourtRepresenting Clerk. The Law Attorney: Enrico Eattoni Amanda Adams Circuit Clerk of the Attorney for SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY PRICE Claims against the You’ll love it or Perona, Peterlin & Associates | (815) 883-4102 Ogle County Petitioner estate may be filed Martinez LLC 170 E Walnut St., Oglesby IL 61348 5732 E. Riverside Ehrmann Gehlbach Court.Claims your money back! on or before June Order OmahaSteaks.com/Deluxe2724 | 1.877.627.5614 Blvd.,Kevin #201 Haas (309) 264-7767 against the estate Badger & Auction Manager: 15, 2026, that date Loves Park, IL Considine, LLC may be filed in the Now! Ask for your FREE burgers with offer 79797FYF being at least six office of the Clerk, 114 E. Everett St., (6) months from the 61111 or with the repre- Suite 300 date of the first 815-491-8065 Savings shown over aggregated single item baseIL price.

8 free 3.2 oz. burgers will be sent to each shipping address that includes SKU 79797. Limit 2 on select items at these exclusive prices. While supplies last. Items may be substituted amartinez@adams 61021 sentative,or both Dixon, publication. due to inventory limitations. Standard shipping rates will be applied and are subject to change. Minimum purchase and other restrictions may apply. Some products may not be available for sale in your area. Sales are subject to martinezlaw.com within six months 815-288-4949 OmahaSteaks.com/terms-of-useOSI. Expires 12/31/25. | 25M8656 | Omaha Steaks, LLC Claims against the December 15, 22, from the date of flessner@egbclaw. estate may be filed 29, 2025 com the first publicawith the Clerk of tion, no later than the Circuit Court, Dec. 15, 22, 29, June 15, 2025 an106 S. 5th Street, 2025 dany claim not filed Oregon, IL 61061, within that period or with the Repre-

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SPORTS VIEWS Andy Colbert Editor’s note: Andy Colbert is away for a couple weeks. Here is one of his columns from August 2003.

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All of sudden last week, I found myself with a rare commodity – unexpected spare time.

An interview I had in Prophetstown for a sports article was postponed. With nothing else to do for about an hour, I decided to head east on the back roads and visit one of the few towns in northwest Illinois I hadn’t been to – Tampico.

As everyone knows, Tampico is noteworthy as the birthplace of former President Ronald Reagan, but I stumbled upon another historical site that offered more intrigue to me.

A deserted high school football field is what I found.

I knew Tampico hadn’t had a football team for a few years. As I drove by a brick building with the inscription, “Township High School 1921,” I had a last-second thought to see what became of the football field.

I parked north of the school, made my way around to the side of the building and there it was. It was like walking into a time warp.

Two goal posts, with faded maroon and white paint, gave evidence of what once was. Another worn-out relic, a scoreboard with the insignia, “Home of the Warriors,” stood at the west end.

It was almost like visiting a Civil War battlefield, but with a different type of history being played out. These grounds had been the stage for countless players, coaches, cheerleaders, band members, parents, referees, students, faculty and townspeople.

With the smell of popcorn filling the air, so many different stories were told on Friday nights in the fall. Whether it was a running back streaking to the end zone with the winning touchdown, or a proud grandparent watching their granddaughter shake pom poms, or a teenager being asked to go to the homecoming dance, or fans questioning a play call, or a young kid dreaming of the time he would get to don a helmet and uniform, and the list goes on and on.

Now, this magical place where so much of small town life happened sat

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

Unexpected spare time and a visit to Tampico

29

Shaw Local News Network file photo

Ronald Reagan’s Birthplace and Museum is located in the 100 block of South Main Street in Tampico. empty, probably never to be used again for a high school football game. That’s too bad, because the grassy expanse was still in good shape. Someone had been maintaining it, just like a treasured antique.

There was even a cinder track ringing the field, something rarely seen anymore. As someone with a fond remembrance of the era of cinder tracks, it was very nostalgic for me to slowly make my way around the 440 yards, as it was measured before the metric system was foisted upon us, and conjure up thoughts of what it was like all those years ago.

Like in 1960. Teams from Atkinson, Buda, DePue, Neponset, Paw Paw and Tiskilwa would come to Tampico to play football and run track. Today, that’s hard to fathom, as they are all out of the football and track business, having been merged into other school districts.

What took place between all those schools and Tampico is just as much a part of history as Ronald Reagan being born there. Actually, that deserted foot-

ball field and cinder track had a bigger impact on people’s lives than having a U.S. president call your town his place of birth.

Other than a lawn mower going in the distance, it was a quiet place to be. If one wanted to, there was even a tree stump to sit on in, with chin on hand and further contemplate things, a la Rodin’s “The Thinker.”

What a perfect place to be, I thought.

The football field was surrounded by farmland on three sides, just like what was seen in so many small rural towns. I don’t know what type they were, but a few large trees lined much of the premises, adding another quintessential touch to its environs.

Finishing my lap around the track, it was time to go. But, one more remnant of times gone by caught my eye in the far northeast corner of the grounds.

It was an abandoned blocking sled, just like I remember from my era of playing in the 1970s. Like an old-model car, it was showing its age and starting

to rust.

Right below where it said Rae Crowther Co. Ardmore, Pennsylvania, I laid my shoulder in and gave it a whack, managing to move it a few feet. A kinder, gentler task from those dog days of summer when a coach would be standing on it for extra weight and barking commands at you.

“Head up, butt down, move it,” seemed to echo back at me all these years later.

As I walked back to my car, I noticed the man mowing his yard was looking in my direction. Yes, I realize it probably looks stupid for a 45-year-old in a deserted field to be hitting a two-man blocking sled.

That’s OK. If I ever get back to Tampico, I would probably do the same thing again.

• Andy Colbert is a longtime Ogle County resident with years of experience covering sports and more for multiple area publications.

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Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE

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Byron beats Oregon in boys basketball Byron defeated Oregon, 79-62, on Monday, Dec. 15, at the 64th Forreston Holiday Tournament at Forreston High School.

– Shaw Local News Network

Photos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

TOP LEFT: Byron’s Cason Newton (11) dribbles up court as Oregon’s Cooper Johnson (2) chases him on Monday, Dec. 15, at the 64th Forreston Holiday Tournament at Forreston High School. TOP RIGHT: Oregon’s Benny Olalde (1) and Byron’s Caden Considine (33) battle for a rebound during Monday’s action at the 64th Forreston Holiday Tournament. ABOVE: Oregon’s Cooper Johnson (2) battles Byron’s Ben Hiveley for a rebound during a Monday’s game at Forreston High School. LEFT: Oregon’s Tucker O’Brien (5) tries to block a shot by Byron’s Kole Aken (5) on Monday, Dec. 15, at the 64th Forreston Holiday Tournament at Forreston High School.

PREP ROUNDUP

By KEVIN NEWBERRY knewberry@shawmedia.com

Girls Basketball

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Oregon 47, Harrison 11: At the Pearl City Tournament on Dec. 15, the Hawks shut down Harrison’s offense in a one-sided victory. All of Sarah Eckardt’s gamehigh 16 points came in the first half of the rout, while Addison Rufer also hit double digits with 10 points.

Oregon 50, Orangeville 42: At the Pearl City Tournament on Dec. 13, Aniyah Sarver delivered 17 points in the third quarter alone in a come-from-behind victory for Oregon. Sarver finished with 25 points and Eckardt scored 15.

Oregon 58, West Carroll 17: At West Carroll on Dec. 11, Avery Kitzmiller knocked down five 3-pointers in a 17-point effort to lead the Hawks in a one-sided win.

Sarver added 10 points in the win.

Warren 46, Oregon 44: Warren hit the game-winning shot with four seconds left as the Hawks fell just short in the Pearl City tournament matchup. Lola Schwarz led the Hawks with 15 points.

Oregon 47, Morrison 11: At the Pearl City tournament, Eckardt had 16 points in the first half. Addison Rufer added 10 points for the Hawks. Sophie Damhoff had seven points for the Fillies.

Boys Basketball

Polo 53, Stockton 34: JT Stephenson’s 14 points led the way for the Marcos in a home win. Mercer Mumford added 11 points in the victory, while Jordan Reed scored nine.

Oregon 68, Stockton 46: Benny Olalde had 17 points, and Keaton Salsbury added 12 in the win.

Oregon 71, North Boone 29: The Hawks are off to a 6-0 start after winning their Big Northern Conference opener on the road.

Polo 45, Forreston 6: Cam Jones scored 20 points and Elsa Monaco added nine in the win at Polo’s home tournament.

Polo 43, Rock Falls 35: Cam Jones scored 19 points while Laynie Mandrell added nine points and nine rebounds in the Polo win. Miley Bickett led the Rockets with 17 points.

Polo 53, Stockton 34: JT Stepehson led the Marcos with 14 points, and Mercer Mumford had 11 in the home win. Jordan Reed added nine for Polo.

Wrestling

Jim Boyd Invitational: At Riverdale on

OGLE COUNTY LIFE Ogle County Life / shawlocal.com • Monday, December 22, 2025

Oregon girls basketball team strong at tournament

31

Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

Oregon’s Quinn Plescia (12) rebounds against Stockton’s Ari Zink (32) on Saturday, Dec. 13, at the 64th Annual Forreston Holiday Basketball Tournament held at Forreston High School.

Dec. 13, Polo’s Gabe Morris placed third at 126 pounds and Micah Stringini came fourth at 190. Morris had three wins and one loss on the day, while Stringini won twice and lost twice.

Oregon 47, Dakota 36: Earning pins for Oregon were Kayden Cover and Jackson Messenger. Nelson Benesh had a technical fall for the Hawks in the win.

Oregon 49, Rochelle 29: Jack Benesh, Landon Ege, Nelson Benesh, Jackson Messenger and Newt Wright had pins

for Oregon in the win. Josiah Perez At Town & Country Lanes in Mt. had a major decision and Isaiah Perez Morris on Dec. 11, Ivan Hernandez won a 4-2 decision for the Hawks. led the Hawks with a 649 series (195, 245, 209) to raise their season standBoys Bowling ing to 6-2.

LaSalle-Peru Tournament: At IV Super Bowl in Peru on Dec. 13, Oregon took Girls Bowling 10th place in a field of 20 with a team Rockford Christian 2,166, Oregon 2,140: score of 4936. Ethan Rowe’s game 1 256 At Town & Country Lanes in Mt. Morand 672 series were tops for the Mar- ris, the Hawks lost their first contest cos. Rockford East won the tourna- of the season by a narrow 26-pin marment with a 5,620 team score. gin. Carli Bailey led Oregon (2-1) with Oregon 3,396, Rockford Christian 2,770: a 461 series (144, 127, 190).

SPORTS

TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY 2003: Brett Favre passes for 4 TDs a day after his dad dies and moves into 2nd in NFL history for career TD passes with 343.

500 goals: Phil Esposito (1974), Brett Hull (1996) and Peter Bondra (2006) hit this NHL milestone on this day.

Monday, December 22, 2025

Byron’s Caden Considine (33) draws a foul as he passes the ball out of an Oregon trap on Monday, Dec. 15, at the 64th Forreston Holiday Tournament at Forreston High School.

Photo by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network

UNDEFEATED NO MORE Byron handed Oregon (8-1) its first defeat of the season, 79-62, on Monday, Dec. 15, at the 64th Forreston Holiday Tournament / 30, 31