OCL_063025_Ogle County Life

July

& 13 - 9a-3p July 18 - 9a-5p July 19 - 9a-3p Additional hours by appointment

ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

1869 Cox Rd, Chana, IL

Questions? Call or Email Michelle: ellisondaylily@gmail.com • 815-739-6850

BY JEFF HELFRICH MANAGING EDITOR

The Rochelle VFW recently presented its Queen of Hearts winnings. Page 8

• John C. Pedersen

• Robert ‘Bob’ John Piros

• Dorothy Noble See page 4

• Felker Foods

• Polo Fresh Food • Menards Anders presented with winnings

OREGON — On June 21, the Rock River Center in Oregon held a 50th anniversary celebration open house. The event included a dedication of the building to James and Catherine Ehnen, historical photos, former staff and board members, and a performance by The Four C Notes, a Frankie Valli tribute band.

Rock River Center was established in 1975 and its mission is to provide resources, activities and services that improve the quality of life for Ogle County’s older adults, the disadvantaged, caregivers and the greater community.

All Ogle County residents have access to services at the Rock River Center including assistance with Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, property tax freezes, benefit access assistance, license plate discounts, caregiver as06302025

BY JEFF HELFRICH MANAGING EDITOR

On June 21, the Rock River Center in Oregon held a 50th

included a dedication of the building to

HILLCREST — Longstanding Rochelle and Ogle County-area business O’Rorke Construction will cease operations around the end of June as its owners and brothers John, Dominic and PJ O’Rorke will be retiring. The family business, incorporated in 1996, has been in operation for the past 29 years.

Raised on a farm, the O’Rorke brothers learned how to use carpentry tools and how to repair buildings and work on machinery. After high school, all three of them worked for construction companies and made the decision to go into business as partners. O’Rorke Construction grew and hires were made and later on they built their Hillcrest location.

“We’re all getting older,” Dominic O’Rorke said. “You’re more limited on things you can do as you get older. I want to spend more time with my family and enjoy the rest of my life and not be under a lot of stress all the time. We have a couple projects that are started that we’re wrapping up and then we’ll be done. Working with family has been great. It’s been great to have family to rely on and back you up on everything. It’s been great to have the support of family here and everybody at home.”

PJ O’Rorke said the business worked on jobs

(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)

Longstanding Rochelle and Ogle County-area business O’Rorke Construction will cease operations around the end of June as its owners and brothers John, Dominic and PJ O’Rorke will be retiring.

(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)

Fritts announces July 2025 Summer Tour events

DIXON —State Rep. Bradley Fritts (R-Dixon) has officially announced his 2025 Summer Tour events for July.

The tour consists of coffee & conversation events and town halls held on most Wednesdays from June 4 to Aug. 27. Coffee & conversation events will all be held at locally-owned coffee shops and restaurants.

The events scheduled for July include the fol-

lowing:

Coffee & Conversa-

tion:

July 2 at Sunset Inn Restaurant, located at 1578 US-30 in Amboy, from 8-10 a.m.

July 9 at Maple Pancake House, located at 405 5th Ave. in Sterling, from 8-10 a.m.

July 16 at Huddle Cafe, located at 802 Main St. in Ashton, from 8-10 a.m.

Town Halls:

July 2 at the Odell

Public Library, located at 307 S. Madison St. in Morrison, from 6-7 p.m.

July 9 at the Lee Fire Station, located at 103 Lee Road in Lee, from 6-7 p.m.

July 16 at the Paw Paw Community Center, located at 362 Chicago Road in Paw Paw, from 6-7 p.m.

To view the full Summer Tour schedule, visit RepFritts.com/SummerTour

Oregon Lions welcome guest speakers

OREGON — The Oregon Lions Club has had so many awe-inspiring guest speakers lately!

Oregon Fire Chief Mike Knoup had the honor of talking to Lions about Firefighter/EMT Greg Hunter, recipient of the EMP Award of the Year. After listening to some of the stories they shared, it was easily understood how Mr. Hunter was given this award! What a true hero!

Jim Travi addressed the Lions Club about Honor Flights. He explained how the program works and what a privilege it is to be able to send our veterans

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - The following students graduated from Mount Mercy in May: Laritzza Ceballos, Bachelor

on a trip to Washington D.C. to visit several memorials. For applications on how to participate in the Honor Flight visit Land of Lincoln Honor Flight web site.

Joyce Lewis of the Ogle County Health Department shared with the Lions all of the wonderful services the department offers including affordable blood draws! They also have an outstanding program on growing micro-greens! For more information contact Ms. Lewis at the Ogle County Health Department.

Whitney Mulrooney, palliative services man-

of Arts, Rochelle. Located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Mount Mercy University is the regional Catholic, Mercy Universi-

ager from Serenity Hospice and Home, gave an informative presentation on their palliative care program. Ms. Mulrooney explained exactly what palliative care is and how many confuse this with Hospice care. In a nutshell, palliative care can be received at any state of chronic illness or disease and can occur at the same time as curative treatments, while hospice care is for a prognosis of six months or less and cannot be utilizing curative treatments.

Please contact Serenity Hospice and Home to learn more.

Ceballos graduates from Mount Mercy University ty that promises students of diverse backgrounds, ages and faiths a challenging, practical education that inspires them to discover knowledge, build community and live their values. Mount Mercy provides a forward-thinking, future-focused education, offering baccalaureate and graduate education to 1,400+ enrolled students and uniquely blending a quality liberal arts education with career-focused professional preparation.

The Oregon Lions Club has had so many awe-inspiring guest speakers lately!

(COURTESY PHOTO)

LOCAL NEWS

the disadvantaged, caregivers and the greater community.

RRC: Ogle County facility celebrates 50 years of service to local community

From page 1

At its own building, it offers educational, recreational and entertainment activities including a game room with pool, shuffleboard and card games and hosts bingo twice a month. Lifescape Community Services operates its Meals on Wheels dispatch for Ogle and Lee counties out of the Rock River Center. The RRC also offers transportation services to all of Ogle County, Executive Director Jamie Nobis said.

“We’re a provider through the Reagan Mass Transit District,” Nobis said. “We operate on a grant and suggested donations and service people who need rides within the county. We travel to Rockford five days a week for people to go to things like doctor’s appointments. We have four big buses and

two minivans and three drivers and a transportation coordinator.”

Anna Mae Lillie was the first Rock River Center board president, elected in 1975 when the center was located across from the courthouse in downtown Oregon. It later moved to the Yellow Bird drop-in center on 4th Street. In 1976, transportation services began. In 1977 the center moved to the Lester Sanderson building on Illinois Route 64. In 2008, ground was broken on the current building at 810 S. 10th St. The Ehnens left a substantial endowment to complete the building. Rock River Center has also been known as the Yellow Bird, Ogle County Senior Services.

Nobis is the organization’s sixth director over 50 years. She believes reaching the milestone shows

that the center continues to grow and offer more services to the community.

“It’s important that the community continues to support the center with donations and volunteering,” Nobis said. “Our former staff and board members have shown a lot of care and concern and personal sacrifice to keep it going. The world seems to be getting more and more complex and other avenues for assistance seem to be getting more challenging. We just keep trying to meet the needs as they change. We have seniors that are 60 and newly retired with completely different needs from seniors that are 100. We have 50 years of individuals we’re trying to serve.”

Nobis thanked the volunteers, board members and staff members that have put in time at the

center over the years. Rock River Center has worked to meet increased needs, namely in its transportation and tax services it offers.

Key gaps to bridge for seniors at Rock River Center include assistance with government programs that can be made difficult by bureaucracy and technology.

The RRC endeavors to be a one-stop shop for seniors to have a person to talk to and meet all of their needs.

“Things like that keep getting more and more complex,” Nobis said. “For transportation, there are some seniors that can’t drive in the winter or to Rockford. We can fill in those gaps and get them a ride and everything they need. We combat social isolation. We offer dining here where people can meet and talk along with a coffee hour and more.”

Nobis said Ogle County

residents have a higher-than-average age and the Rock River Center works to be creative to meet the increased need.

It has a staff of 11, half of which are transportation employees. The RRC works with senior centers throughout Ogle County to collaborate on services.

The Rock River Center also serves as a community gathering place and has rental space for showers, celebrations of life and birthdays. It offers shows such as music and magicians for all ages. Village of Progress clients also spend time at the center participating in programs.

Nobis said helping people is what makes her work at the Rock River Center worth it.

“Everyone is really appreciative,” Nobis said. “I’m blessed we have an amazing staff and clients

that reach out to each other. Many of our groups become their own, welcoming families. People can find a home here and people that share common interests. They can get help from our staff. There are statistics that show that people that have a wider social circle and support end up being healthier and living longer with better mental health. Hopefully we’re doing a lot to contribute to that.”

Nobis thanked Lillie and all of the board members, staff and volunteers over the past 50 years along with everyone that has participated in an RRC program.

“We work every day to meet Ogle County’s needs,” Nobis said. “If someone is in need of assistance, we will find a way to make it accessible to them.”

O’RORKE: Brothers set to retire, business to close after 29 years

From page 1

The O’Rorkes thanked their customers for their business over the years.

“We had a lot of great customers over the years,” Dominic O’Rorke said.

“We’re proud of all the projects that we worked on and all the customers that we got to work for.

We thought we had a really good customer base and we’re really happy that we got to work with so many great people. The commu-

nity support we had in the area was awesome. Rochelle and the surrounding area really supported us. It meant a lot to us. It meant our livelihood to us.”

John O’Rorke said the most notable changes in the construction industry over the past 29 years are stricter safety requirements and more difficulty to hire a workforce. Back around when the business started, there was a “very large” workforce of young people that wanted to do

construction work.

“Now we don’t see even near the amount of young people that want to do it,” Dominic O’Rorke said. “That’s been a big change. There have been other changes with automation. We used to hand drive all the nails. Now we use automatic nail and screw guns. I think it’s tougher to run a business like this today. Finding a workforce is your first challenge. And the government regulations put

1:00pm followed by time of fellowship until 3:00pm

on everything are another challenge with safety and building codes. There’s just a ton more restrictions than there used to be that make it difficult.”

The O’Rorkes said there aren’t many family construction businesses left in the area, after they used to be common. The decision to take another family business away from the community wasn’t easy for O’Rorke Construction, the brothers said.

“Now all you see are big companies that are doing construction work,” John O’Rorke said. “And a lot of them don’t have to follow the same rules we have to follow.”

John O’Rorke said his fondest memories from the 29 years are working with employees, who he thanked for coming to work for O’Rorke Construction.

“As we look back at all of our time doing this, we had a lot of great employ-

ees,” Dominic O’Rorke said. “We had a really great workforce here and a lot of them went on to start their own businesses. We had a really great group of guys and we really enjoyed it.” PJ O’Rorke said he and his brothers are proud of their 29 years of work and the fact that they got to retire together.

“I won’t say it’s always been easy, but we always stuck together and stuck it out for each other,” PJ O’Rorke said.

Rock River Center was established in 1975 and its mission is to provide resources, activities and services that improve the quality of life for Ogle County’s older adults,

(PHOTOS BY JEFF HELFRICH)

The family business, incorporated in 1996, has been in operation for the past 29 years. Raised on a farm, the O’Rorke brothers learned how to use carpentry tools and how to repair buildings and work on machinery.

(PHOTOS BY JEFF HELFRICH)

LOCAL NEWS

John C. Pedersen

STILLMAN VAL -

LEY – John C. Pedersen, age 70, died Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. He was born Feb. 6, 1955 in Minneapolis, Minnesota the son of Ivan “Pete” and Winifred “Winnie” Lee Pedersen. John married Cathy BatesKern on October 27, 1990. He worked as Shop Manager for over 30 years at Petro in Rochelle, IL. John loved spending time with his family, particularly his grandchildren. He was an avid NASCAR fan, loved golfing and fishing in his younger years, and enjoyed travelling – especially to Vegas for a few days of blackjack. If he wasn’t at home in his office planning out the logistics of his next trip, John could often be found at one of the local estab-

lishments sharing stories, jokes, and the latest news with his countless friends. The man knew everyone and was loved by so many. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister Joy Hummel. He is survived by his loving wife Cathy of Stillman Valley; his 3 children: Christian Pedersen of Rockford; Michael (Matisyn) Pedersen of Rockford; and Julie Pedersen of Stillman Valley; his sisters Alicia (Jack) Schneider of Oshkosh, WI and Carol Paffenroth of Rockford, IL; his 3 loving grandchildren Monroe and Wrenley Pedersen and Max Olson; and several nieces and nephews. Private services were held at the Farrell Holland-Gale Funeral Home, 136 W. Roosevelt Road in Stillman Valley. A celebration of John’s life will be held

on Thursday, June 26th, 2025 beginning at 3:00 PM at the SM & SF Club, 7625 Kishwaukee Road near Stillman Valley, IL. Private burial will take place at Kishwaukee Cemetery. A memorial fund is established in John’s name for “Kick In For Cancer” and sent to SM & SF Club at 1010 Sandy Hollow Road, Rockford, IL 61109. Visit www. farrellhollandgale.com to leave a condolence or memory of John.

Dorothy Noble

POLO – Dorothy Noble, 84, of Polo, Illinois, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2025. Born on July 3, 1941, to Vernon and Margaret Thomasson.

In February 1982, Dorothy married William “Bill” Noble, with whom she shared many cherished years until his passing. She was a devoted mother to Cathy (Dan) Lawton, Jeff (Gayle) Gilbert, and Angela Vanhorne. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Morgan (Bryan) Becker, Dr. Cort (Maria) Lawton, Shannon (Jake) Scroggins, La11ren (Nick) Vandermyde, Ryan (Elizabeth) Gilbert, and Thomas Vanhorne. Dorothy was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Camden and Perri Becker; Mac, Kane, Winona, and Vincent Lawton; Grant and Gabby Scroggins; Emery, Jack, and Layni Vandermyde; and Sarni Jo and Caysen Gilbert. Baby Gilbert to arrive in December. Her loving companion of 10 years, Jack Dohse. Dorothy was preceded

in death by her parents, Vernon and Margaret Thomasson; her beloved husband, Bill Noble; and her sisters, Beverly Shenefelt and Shirley Cleaveland. Her “brother in heart,” Norm Stewart. Dorothy devoted 20 years of her life to the White Pines State Park restaurant. In addition, she was a secretary with Local 150 Operating Engineers for eight years. A woman of many passions, Dorothy found joy in cooking, sewing, tending to her garden, playing bridge and engaging in spirited card games with friends and loved ones. Dorothy was an active member of the Polo Jay-Cettes and Polo Woman’s Club.

Dorothy cherished her time as a snowbird in Florida, relishing the warm climate and the company of dear family and friends. Above all, Dorothy’s greatest joy was her family. In the last decade of her life, Dorothy shared a deep and loving companionship

with Jack Dohse. Their relationship was marked by adventure, with one of their favorite pastimes being motorcycle rides together.

A graveside service to honor Dorothy’s life will be held at 2:00 PM at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Dixon, Illinois on Friday, July 11, 2025. Following the service, friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life at 4:00 PM at The Lamplight in Polo, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions will be made to the Polo Senior Center and Hopsice, in honor of Dorothy Noble. Please visit www. polofamilyfuneralhome. com to send condolences

Iowa State University announces spring 2025 Dean’s List

AMES, Iowa – More than 11,300 Iowa State University students have been recognized for outstanding academic achievement by being named to the 2025 spring semester Dean’s List.

The following local students were honored: Byron: Eric Detig, Management, B.S. Shannon McHale, English, B.A. Reece Caden Pruett, Industrial Design Undergraduate Pre-Major. Davis Junction: Delaney Elizabeth Connors, Public Relations, B.S. Lindenwood: Jack Richolson, Agricultural Studies, B.S. Monroe Center: Adam M Goelitz, Aerospace Engineering, B.S. Mt. Morris: Andrew McKanna, Industrial Design Undergraduate Pre-Major. Oregon: Matthew J.

Kuehn, Mechanical Engineering, B.S. Valerie Ann Nyderek, Biochemistry, B.S. (AGLS). Polo: Joseph Lee Bardell, Mechanical Engineering, B.S. Nicole Lee Boelens, English, B.A. Harper Leigh Clark, Microbiology, B.S. Stillman Valley: Kennedy Maryanna Swenson, Mechanical Engineering, B.S.

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Robert ‘Bob’ John Piros

WEST BEND, Wis. — Robert “Bob” John Piros, 78, formerly of Stillman Valley, Illinois, and Chana, Illinois, currently residing in West Bend, WI, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, surrounded by the family and friends whose lives he brightened with boundless curiosity, and a deep love for nature.

Born in Gary, Indiana, on August 28, 1946, to the late John Julius Piros and Mary Louise (Koscel) Piros, Bob grew up roaming the streets and discovering the wild spaces in Homewood, Illinois. He attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School—earning a few memorable knuckle raps from the nuns—before graduating from Homewood Flossmoor High School and pursuing his passion for science and the outdoors at Northern Illinois University. He received his masters degree in outdoor education from NIU’s Lorado Taft Field Campus.

Bob devoted 35 years as an 8th-grade science teacher in Stillman Valley, where his classroom rang with energy, wonder, and the chorus of “Drop and give me 50!” His famous push-up policy kept inattentive students on their toes (literally) while his gift for hands-on science turned countless kids into lifelong learners.

Ever the coach, Bob built Stillman Valley’s wrestling program into a powerhouse and founded the high-school Outdoor Club, leading annual adventures that became local legend: spelunking at Maquoketa Caves State Park, canoeing the Boundary Waters, rappelling at Starved Rock, and even lowering students down the side of Meridian Junior High during the Fall Festival. He believed every child deserves a moment of awe in the wild and spent evenings and weekends making sure they got it.

Bob had a gift for inspiring courage. Whether leading students deep into the echoing darkness of a cave or helping them rappel down a cliff—or even the side of their school—he encouraged countless young people to confront their fears and discover their strength. One of his most memorable teaching assistants was Kahn, his beloved Florida king snake, who lived in the classroom terrarium. For many students, holding Kahn for the first time was a rite of passage—equal parts thrill, fear, and pride. Passing Kahn from hand to trembling hand, he taught hundreds of middle-schoolers that understanding beats fear every time.

In addition to his work in education and the outdoors, Bob was a committed advocate for civic engagement. He served for many years as the precinct chairperson for the Ogle County Democrats, believing deeply in the importance of participation, representation, and standing up for one’s values. Whether knocking on doors, organizing local meetings, or helping

others navigate the voting process, Bob brought the same energy and integrity to democracy as he did to the classroom—always informed, always passionate, and always rooted in community.

Bob and his first wife, Judi, raised three daughters—Nikki, Sandy, and Cindy—who inherited his love of science and outdoor adventure. In 1994, Bob married teacher Sherry Hagemann, his soulmate in prairie wanderings and word-play. Together they traded the Latin names of prairie plants like sweet nothings and wrote limericks to mark anniversaries. They made many trips, including to the Boundary Waters, where they found joy in quiet paddles, morning mist, and the echoing call of loons. In their final years, they were torn apart by circumstance, yet their love remained unwavering—like loons calling to one another across great distances.

Bob’s circle of love extended far beyond bloodlines. To Dwayne “PeeWee” Shaw (Kate) and their daughters Annie and Maggie, he was a fishing partner, pingpong rival, mentor and friend. Their weekly visits, ping pong games, home-cooked meals and stories enriched his later years immeasurably.

When Bob wasn’t teaching or coaching, he could be found kneedeep in coneflowers with the Prairie Preservation Society of Ogle County, fishing on any nearby body of water, spending time with his grandchildren and family, or hosting friends for pingpong in his barn—where newcomers received the same warm welcome and spirited competition as his oldest friends.

He is survived by daughters Nikki Piros (Sean) of Lake Tahoe, CA, Sandy Mikesell (John) of Greenwood Village, CO, Cindy Raimer (Bob) of West Bend, WI, grandchildren Addison, Emma, Sophie, Lukas, and Nadia, brothers Jim (Ruth) Piros and Mark (Ann) Piros, sisters Julie Diskin and Laura McCarver, nieces Rose Diskin and Kate Koenig, nephews Eric and Jack Piros and John Koenig, “Honorary family” Dwayne “PeeWee” Shaw (Kate), Annie, and Maggie, treasured fishing buddies, including “The Matts” and numerous students, wrestlers, Outdoor Club alumni, teaching colleagues and prairie friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Mary Koenig, brother-in-law John McCarver and his beloved wife Sherry Piros.

In the final four years of his life, as Bob lived with frontotemporal dementia, he continued to find deep joy in time spent with his beloved grandchildren—Addison, Emma, Sophie, Lukas, and Nadia. Ever the competitor, he still managed to leave his daughters and grandkids in the dust at the bowling alley. Bob could always be counted on to dance with his granddaughters and show off his moves.

Together, they shared a peaceful kayak trip to the blue holes of Big Cedar Lake, crisp hikes through the autumn colors at Riveredge Nature Center, enjoyed releasing sturgeon at SturgeonFest, feeding the chickadees at Harrington Beach State Park, and a memorable Christmas road trip to Colorado listening to John Denver on the radio. Though dementia gradually dimmed Bob’s memory, the moments of joy, laughter, and connection will last as treasured memories to his grandchildren.

Bob’s family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care he received at The Cottages in West Bend, the Aurora Grafton 3rd floor nursing team, and from Kathy’s Hospice during his final days. In his last hours, he was exactly where he belonged—outdoors, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, with cranes and wild turkeys nearby and birdsong in the air. Even at the end, he remained connected to the wild world he loved so deeply.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025 from 2-6 p.m. at the Jarrett Prairie Center in Byron, IL. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be directed to The Conservation Fund, ensuring future generations discover the wild joy Bob shared so freely. https://donor.conservationfund.org/-/ NXBAZPYQ?member=SPQGWGDQRobert Piros Memorial Fundraiser - https://donor. conservationfund.org/-/ NXBAZPYQ

Bob often told his students, “Look closely—there’s an entire universe under every rock.” He lived by that belief, reminding all of us that the best moments are found not on a screen, but under open skies, in shared laughter, and on winding trails with the people we love. He created lasting memories through simple joys— like games and storytelling around the campfire or initiating new Outdoor Club members with a legendary “snipe hunt”. These moments weren’t just fun—they were Bob’s way of building wonder, connection, and community. As John Muir once wrote, “When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the universe.” In honor of Bob’s legacy, may we each take time to step away from our devices, step into the natural world, and rediscover the joy of connection—both to the earth and to one another. Go outside. Hold hands. Tell a story. Watch the stars. That’s where he would be.

LOCAL NEWS

OGLE

COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT with no serial number. Hoover was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held pending an appearance before a judge.

OREGON — On June 17 at approximately 10:32 a.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 7,000 block of North Illinois Route 2. After an investigation, Daniel Orlando Mancada-Tole, 25, of Rockford, was placed under arrest for an outstanding Rockford Police Department warrant. Mancada-Tole was transported to the Ogle County Jail, where he is being held until an appearance before a judge.

On June 18 at 3:26 p.m. deputies, along with Forreston Fire Department and Ambulance and Forreston Police Department, responded to the 13,000 block of West Illinois Route 72 for a single-vehicle accident. After an investigation, deputies determined an eastbound vehicle operated by Randall S. Baker, 78, of Freeport, had traveled off the south shoulder of the road. The vehicle then rotated sideways before overturning one time and landing on its wheels. Baker was evaluated by Forreston ambulance and released from the scene with minor injuries.

On June 19 at approximately 1:36 a.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 9,000 block of North Kishwaukee Road. After an investigation, deputies placed Daniel Pelayo, 30, of Lockport, under arrest for driving while license suspended. Pelayo was additionally cited for improper lane usage. Pelayo was released from the scene with a notice to appear in court on a later date.

On June 19 at approximately 5:40 p.m. deputies responded to the intersection of North Illinois Route 26 and West Illinois Route 72, Forreston, for a two-vehicle accident.

After an investigation, it was learned that an eastbound white Ford Edge failed to yield before entering the intersection. The Ford was struck by a red Chevrolet Silverado that was southbound on Illinois Route 26. None of the occupants were injured from the crash. The juvenile driver of the Ford was cited for failing to obey a stop sign. Deputies were assisted at the scene by Shannon Fire and EMS.

On June 19 at 7:54 p.m. Ogle County Sheriff’s Office Deputies conducted a traffic stop on Illinois Route 38 at Mulford Road. After an investigation, Jose M. Avila-Duran, 52, of DeKalb was arrested for driving while license suspended. Avila-Duran was also cited for operating vehicle with expired registration. Avila-Duran was released on a notice to appear with a return court date.

On June 19 at 8:47 p.m. Ogle County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the 6,000 block of North Perryville Road for the report of a domestic. After an investigation, Dillon M. Hoover, 28, of Monroe Center was arrested for domestic battery, and possession of a firearm

On June 20 at approximately 10:59 a.m. deputies responded to a rural address in Brookville to assist Mt. Morris Police Department with a follow-up. After investigation, deputies placed Dalltyn Queen, 18, of Mt. Morris under arrest for possession of a controlled substance (schedule II pills, class-four felony), possession of drug paraphernalia, and violation of the FOID ACT (unlawful possession of ammunition) Queen was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.

On June 20 at approximately 4:39 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 700 block of West Blackhawk Drive in Byron. After investigation, deputies placed Dalton Haenitsch, 30, of Polo, under arrest for an active Lee County contempt of court warrant. Haenitsch was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was held in lieu of bond.

On June 21 at approximately 3:38 a.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Illinois Route 26 and Holden Street, Woosung. After further investigation Dustin Garcia, 36, of Mt. Morris, was placed under arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol. Garcia was additionally cited for improper lane usage, illegal transportation of an alcoholic container, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and carrying/display driver’s license. Garcia was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was given a future court date and released on a notice to appear.

On June 21 at approximately 11:47 a.m. deputies were dispatched to the intersection of North Mt. Morris Road and West

Pond Road, Leaf River, for a two-vehicle accident. After investigation, deputies determined that a black Chevy Equinox, operated by Cadence Albee, 19, of Freeport, was traveling eastbound, when it disobeyed the stop sign on Pond Road. The Chevy was then struck by a grey Ford Transit van that was southbound on North Mt. Morris Road. Albee was cited for disobeying a stop sign, operating a vehicle without insurance, and not wearing a seatbelt. Albee was transported to FHN for apparent minor injuries. Three occupants in the Transit van were transported to Swedish American for apparent minor injuries. Ogle County deputies were assisted on scene by Byron EMS, Leaf River EMS, and Mt. Morris EMS.

On June 21 at approximately 7:27 p.m. deputies responded to the 100 block of Primrose Lane, Davis Junction for a utility complaint. An initial investigation determined a vehicle had struck a utility box and then left the scene. The vehicle and driver were later located at the Love’s Truck Stop in Monroe Center. After a brief investigation, Daniel A. Estanez Arturo, 29, of Elgin, was placed under arrest for driving with no valid license and driving under the influence of alcohol. Estanez Arturo was additionally charged with aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol. He was transported to the Ogle County Jail and released on a notice to appear with a future court date.

On June 22 at approximately 4:55 p.m. deputies responded to the 7,100 block of North Illinois Route 2 for the report of a single-vehicle collision with injuries. After an investigation, it was determined that a gray Chevrolet Suburban was traveling southbound on North Illinois Route 2. The Suburban crossed

the northbound lane of traffic before entering the ditch, east of the roadway. The Suburban struck two utility poles and several trees before coming to a rest in the ditch. Deputies placed the driver of the Suburban, Jacqueline Hollaway, 62, of Forreston, under arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol. Hollaway was additionally cited for improper lane usage. Hollaway was transported to Swedish American Hospital for suspected minor injuries and released on a notice to appear with a future court date. Members of the Byron Police Department and Byron Fire Department assisted deputies at the scene.

On June 22 at approximately 1:44 a.m. deputies responded to the 1,300 block of North Illinois Route 2 for the report of a disturbance. After an investigation, David Kmiec, 44, of Oregon, was placed under arrest for battery. Kmiec was transported by Oregon EMS to OSF Saint Katharine Hospital for treatment of his injuries. Kmiec was released on a notice to appear with a future court date.

On June 23 at 6:19 a.m. Ogle County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the intersection of East Illinois Route 38 and South Mulford Road in regards to a two-vehicle accident. Upon arrival, officers determined that a 2008 GMC Envoy driven by Aaron Carlston, 34, Loves Park, had stopped for the stop sign for southbound traffic. Carlston then entered onto Illinois Route 38 into the path of a 2007 Honda Civic driven

by Callie M. Ackland, 31, of Rochelle. Ackland was taken by ambulance to Rochelle Community Hospital for possible minor injuries. Carlston was cited for failing to yield at a stop intersection and given a July court date. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Rochelle Police, Rochelle Fire Department, Smith and Son’s Towing, and Ron’s Towing.

On June 23 at 7:39 a.m. deputies responded to the intersection of North Freeport Road and West U.S. Route 52 in reference to a two-vehicle accident. Upon arrival, deputies determined that a 2024 Honda HR-V driven by Casimir Pawlowski, 19, of Rockford, had stopped at the stop sign for eastbound traffic. Pawlowski then entered into the intersection in the path of a 2013 Ford F150 driven by David Blondell, 71, of Lanark. Blondell was taken by ambulance to FHN in Freeport for suspected minor injuries. Pawlowski was taken by ambulance to FHN in Freeport for suspected minor injuries. One pas-

senger of the Ford was taken to FHN in Freeport by ambulance, and another passenger was taken to OSF in Dixon by ambulance, both for suspected minor injuries. Pawlowski was cited for failing to yield/obey a stop sign and given a July court date. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Mt. Morris Fire Department, Polo Fire Department, Forreston Fire Department, and Dabney’s Towing.

On June 23 at 2:06 p.m. deputies responded to South Freeport Road and West Robin Road in reference to a vehicle on fire. Upon arrival, deputies determined that a 2010 Chrysler Town and Country driven by Matthew Childers, 50, of Davis Junction, was driving northbound on South Freeport Road when the vehicle caught on fire. The fire was determined to be accidental. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Polo Police, Polo Fire Department, and Dyer’s Towing. No injuries and no citations. All individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty.

VIEWPOINT

"Congress shall make no law. . . abridging the freedom of speech or of the press"

MOMENTS IN TIME

* On July 14, 1953, the George Washington Carver National Monument, founded by Franklin Delano Roosevelt and created by Audrey Corwin in 1952, was dedicated in Missouri. It was the first such site to honor a Black American as well as a non-president.

* On July 15, 1997, while on a killing spree, Andrew Cunanan murdered world-renowned Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace with two gunshots to the head on the steps outside Versace’s Miami mansion before fleeing the scene. Eight days later, he was discovered dead by suicide on a houseboat 40 blocks from the designer’s home.

* On July 16, 1769, Father Junipero Serra, a Spanish Franciscan missionary, founded the first Catholic mission in California in what is present-day San Diego. After blessing his new outpost in a high mass, the Royal Standard of Spain was unfurled over the mission, which Serra christened San Diego de Alcala.

* On July 17, 1945, President Harry S. Truman recorded his initial impression of Joseph Stalin in his diary, describing their first meeting, a discussion of post-World War II policy in Europe, as “cordial” and closing the entry with the words, “I can deal with Stalin. He is honest, but smart as hell.”

* On July 18, 1986, new close-up videotapes of the sunken ocean liner Titanic, taken from the first manned expedition to the wreck and showing one of the ship’s grand staircases and a coral-covered chandelier, were released to the public.

* On July 19, 1952, air traffic controllers in Washington, D.C., detected UFOs over the White House and U.S. Capitol building. More appeared a week later, but the government dismissed the sightings as just a harmless weather phenomenon.

* On July 20, 1923, Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa died in a storm of 40 bullets while driving through Parral, Mexico. He was buried the next day, but three years later the grave was dug up and his skull was stolen. Officially, the identity of the robber remains a mystery, as does that of the person who ordered the assassination.

(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

Letter: How hot will it get?

DEAR editor, Have you noticed weather has been warm? Apparently Donald Trump did not.

“President Donald Trump’s denial of climate change has become more insidious, powerful and far-reaching in his second mandate as he had acquired experience during his first term in office, said Robert Proctor, professor of the History of Science at Stanford University.”

(France24,May 18, 2025)

“Trump is reportedly intent on rewriting an Environmental Protection Agency’s 2009 endangerment finding, which found greenhouse gases are a threat to public health and welfare, in order to downplay the negative effects of climate change. He’s working to decimate climate reporting in general. He also wants to muddy the waters by producing a National Climate Assessment written by climate deniers who argue that the impacts of climate change are overstated — or would even be a net positive.”

for climate research and moved to shutter EPA’s greenhouse gas reporting program. The Trump administration has slowwalked climate-related contracts — including one for the upkeep of two polar weather satellites. And it’s begun to wall off the United States from international climate cooperation.

“That’s not all.

“Trump’s blitzkrieg on federal climate work is only a start — as his budget strategy calls for even deeper cuts in the months and years ahead. That includes billions of dollars in cuts to climate and weather research at NOAA and NASA, widely considered two of the world’s top science agencies.

(RollingStone, March 31, 2025)

“President Trump issued an executive order aimed at dismantling many of the key actions that have been undertaken at the federal level to address climate change.”

( SabinCenterforClimateChange)

“President Donald Trump long ago decided climate change was a ‘hoax’. Now his administration is trying to silence government research that proves him wrong.

“Since Trump returned to the White House in January, his administration has fired or let go hundreds of climate and weather scientists — and cut ties to hundreds more who work in academia or the private sector.

“His team has eliminated major climate programs, frozen or cut grants

“All told, it’s an unprecedented assault on humanity’s understanding of how global warming is transforming the planet, scientists say. And they warn that Trump’s actions will blind the United States and the world to the ways people are rapidly heating the planet by burning fossil fuels.” (E&ENews,Politico, June 16, 2025)

“From carbon pollution to sea-level rise to global heating, the pace and level of key climate change indicators are all in uncharted territory, more than 60 top scientists warned. … Earth’s surface temperature last year breached 1.5°C over pre-industrial levels for the first time. … No less alarming than record heat and carbon emissions is the gathering pace at which these and other climate indicators are shifting.” (France24, June 19, 2025) “’Things aren’t just getting worse. They’re getting worse faster,’ said … Zeke Hausfather … of climate monitoring group Berkeley Earth.” (APNews, June 18, 2025)

Henry Tideman, Oregon

The Ogle County Life is a division of News Media Corporation.

Sustained, strategic investment is critical for the stability of our educator pipeline

AS reported in the recent Educator Shortage Report released by Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools and the State Board of Education, Illinois is making progress in growing its educator workforce, but shortages persist in critical areas. Indeed, the stop gap measures that are being used to fill those vacancies keep the education process moving forward for students but are not a sustainable approach to ensuring quality and equity for the long-term.

Bolstered by historic K-12 investments in the Evidence Based Funding Formula, Illinois districts have been investing in an increased number of teachers, administrators, and support staff. This growth was much needed after economic and budget challenges cut down the workforce in the 2010s, and it represents an important opportunity for smaller class sizes and more manageable caseloads for support staff, which come closer to recommended levels.

But this growth depends upon an adequate candidate pool, particularly for the roles where need is growing, but shortages are most severe: Bilingual and Special Education teachers, school support staff such as psychologists and speech-language

pathologists, and paraprofessionals.

While enrollment in Illinois educator preparation programs has grown in recent years, recent data from the Educator Shortage Survey reminds us that in certain geographies, gaps in educator supply and demand contribute to unfilled positions and the hiring of uncertified staff. Such challenges ultimately harm student learning and disproportionately affect students from low-income households, students of color, rural students, English Learners, and students with disabilities–students who are all more likely to live in districts with high vacancy rates.

a strategic long-term view.

So, what does it mean to think long-term about the educator pipeline?

Findings from the survey also highlight how district leaders perceive the impact of recent state level statutory or regulatory changes on educator recruitment and retention. Of the five changes rated most impactful, three involve broadening the pool of eligible substitutes or the introduction of temporary changes to licensure that offer districts more flexibility. These actions are helping ease current pain points, but absent longer-term investments, they cannot address the deeper challenges laid out in the report. Sustainable change requires us to take

1.Invest in addressing root causes. There is no silver bullet change that will solve shortage challenges. Short-term or temporary licensure strategies might help around the edges, but don’t address root causes. Fortunately, the state has been making key investments in the pipeline, chief among them being increased funding for Early Childhood Education and Care via Smart Start and K-12 schools via the Evidence-Based Funding Formula–investments that allow programs and districts to address underlying funding inequities and inadequacy in compensation and staffing.

2. Sustain investments long enough to know whether they actually work. In recent years, Illinois has stood up a teacher mentoring program, launched principal recruitment and retention efforts, and supported affinity groups for teachers. Starting in FY24, the General Assembly more than doubled investment in scholarship and preparation investments such as the Minority Teachers of Illinois Scholarship. These programs are getting promising early

results in recruitment, preparation, and retention. But we have to continue investments long enough to know if they work. And we must commit to rigorous evaluation so that we understand the critical drivers of success.

3. Don’t lose sight of what makes a strong workforce: highly effective, well-prepared and diverse teachers. When we think about addressing shortages, we cannot lose sight of the elements that research consistently shows drive student outcomes. These objectives can and should work in harmony: strong preparation and early career support increase effectiveness and boost early career retention. Scholarships make the pathway into the profession more affordable, attractive and more diverse. The factors impacting educator shortages are multifaceted, and solutions are not simple. But we cannot let our desire to find that one “quick fix” get in the way of a serious, strategic, and sensible approach. We need to act like our students’ future depends on building a strong diverse educator workforce –because it does.

Robin Steans is president of Advance Illinois, an independent, bipartisan education policy and advocacy nonprofit focused on creating a healthier public education system for Illinois.

Letter: Get your popcorn ready

EAR editor,

DThere are few Democrats in Ogle County but they are spreading misinformation about President Donald Trump and it is time to call them out for it. To do so we must highlight the actual reality of what has transpired the last four years under the Joe Biden administration.

First, we had our borders illegally opened to allow an invasion of some of the worst human beings on the face of the Earth of 170 of all 195 countries of the world. We are talking about criminals and the criminally insane. We are talking about known gang members of cartels as well as sleeper cells of terrorist organizations of the Middle East and Asia. If you are one of the naive hypocrites who chant “NO HUMAN CAN BE ILLEGAL!”, I would remind you at the same time Biden was allowing the invasion he was also mandating the COVID-19 vaccines unconstitutionally for actual American citizens! Please rationalize that hypocrisy for us.

Second, we then had Democrat Senator Chuck Schumer admit the Democrats have packed the

Federal courts with 235 activist judges willing to push the Democrat’s agenda over following the Constitution and the laws of the land. For the record there are 1,770 such judges in total so what he did was he outed at least 235 Federal judges as being guilty of judicial malpractice. By some counts at least 60 different judges have now tried to use their positions to stop President Trump from deporting the 10 to 20 million illegal aliens who entered our country the last four years illegally. And again, if you are a Democrat who thinks judges ignoring the law while violating their oaths of office is ok, perhaps you can explain why presidents before Trump never had a single such challenge about deportations during their administrations (Bush/ Clinton/Biden). This is harassment by litigation or what is now commonly referred to as “lawfare”. It is the judicial branch usurping of powers of the executive branch and it is illegal!

used to illegally funnel money to these same criminal illegal aliens to illegally aid and abet them as the Democrats wanted to get them registered as Democrats on the voter roles. That is actually an act of treason!

Fourth, the end game objective of this charade was to pack the voter roles with Democrats (the same way they have been packing the courts) to allow socialism/communism/globalism (pick your poison) to prevail. As an example, Democrat Senator Chuck Schumer just called for us to all immediately grant citizenship to the “...11 million or however many million undocumented there are here.”

And if you think this is conspiracy theory…

the 2020 election by providing Democrats with counterfeit ballots and state driver’s licenses. Get your popcorn ready.

President Trump was impeached twice, almost assassinated twice, falsely charged on 34 felony counts by corrupt judges who went so far as to deny President Trump due process. In another case he was required to pay an arbitrary amount of a half a billion dollars in bond money for a criminal case with no stated crime or victims where the New York State’s Attorney is now herself under investigation as a criminal for the same thing she charged President Trump has recently announced, “I was the hunted. Now I am the hunter.”

As the old expression goes, get your popcorn ready!

Third, thanks to Elon Musk and his new DOGE office, he has now outed a number of NGOs were

The FBI and DOJ is subpoenaing all kinds of records from Nancy Pelosi and other Democrats in D.C. to determine what happened on Jan. 6, 2021. She may be held liable for the part she played in that day. President Trump has asked for a special prosecutor to investigate the 2020 election irregularities. There is new evidence China and their CCP interfered in

LIFE letters' policy

Bottom line, Americans do not want socialism, communism, or globalism so Americans do not want today’s version of the Democrats. It is just that simple. If you are mad as hell at the hypocrisy of those on the left working this hidden agenda, join the club. That club is MAGA!

Mark Schwendau, Byron

Concise letters are most likely to be chosen for publication, but the use of any material is at the discretion of management. All letters must be signed or they will not be considered for publication.

During election times, no letters written by the candidates endorsing themselves will be considered for publication.

Editing may be necessary for space, clarity or to avoid obscenity or libel, but ideas will not be altered. Writers are urged to use discretion and refrain from sarcasm or personal attacks.

Criticism of individuals or organizations that is not broached tactfully will jeopardize the publication of a letter. Letters will be published in the order that they are received, unless there is a time factor involved, space permitting.

Robin Steans

FARM NEWS

Illinois adopts first wheat checkoff

BY HANNAH SPANGLER FARMWEEK

ILLINOIS will now have a voluntary wheat checkoff program after farmers approved the program last month.

The Wheat Development Act passed with nearly 75% of votes in favor. The Illinois Department of Agriculture confirmed the vote April 17, officially adopting the program proposed by the Wheat Development Checkoff Committee. The new program goes into effect Jan. 1.

“Agriculture is our state’s No. 1 industry, and we are proud to be the No. 11 producer of wheat in the nation, producing 60.2 million bushels in 2024,” said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. “The wheat checkoff will foster continued growth, positioning Illinois as a global leader in wheat production.”

The farmer-funded initiative aims to enhance wheat production, develop new markets and boost demand for wheat products. Farmers can opt to

Projected

BY RHIANNON BRANCH FARMWEEK

WHILE the national consensus points to better corn returns compared to soybeans this season, that might not be the case for farmers in the No. 1 soybean producing state.

USDA’s prospective plantings report predicted a 5% increase in corn acres and 4% decrease in soybean acres in the U.S. this planting season.

“I would note that much of the increase in corn acres is happening in the Great Plains and the western Corn Belt in states like Iowa and Nebraska and less so in the eastern Corn Belt,” University of Illinois ag economist Gary Schnitkey told FarmWeek.

pay 1.5 cents per bushel, which will be used to fund research, market development and promotional activities benefiting the entire wheat industry.

“The intent of this program is to benefit all wheat farmers in Illinois,” said Illinois Wheat Association (IWA) Executive Director Megan Dieken. “The funds will be allocated by the farmer-led board, with the ultimate goal of achieving higher yields and better profits.

“This program is also refundable,” she said. “If you decide not to participate, you can submit a refund application within 60 days after the deduction from the sale of your wheat.”

IWA was established 30 years ago to build a community of individuals interested in the development of wheat production. The Illinois Wheat Development Act, enacted in 1997, created the committee that attempted the first wheat checkoff proposal, which was defeated by a 4-to-1 margin.

In 2013, discussions about a checkoff ref -

erendum resumed. An amended Illinois Wheat Development Act was signed by former Gov. Pat Quinn but was not pursued further.

However, wheat production has continued to grow in Illinois, with USDA data showing a 3% increase from 2024 to 2025. Dieken noted that as more people plant wheat and double cropping expands northward, wheat will continue to thrive. The checkoff program will ensure that funds are available for research and education to support Illinois wheat farmers.

“It (a checkoff program) is probably the most bang for your buck when it comes to advocating for your product,” said Brian Semple, Siemer Milling vice president of supply. “I just don’t see a whole lot else that has a better return on investment (ROI) than that.”

For businesses like Siemer Milling in Teutopolis, Semple told FarmWeek a checkoff program means “doors are wide open” for future research. The company is always looking for

There will be more research to enhance wheat production and marketing in Illinois as farmers in the state recently voted to approve the state’s first checkoff for the cereal crop.

consistent milling quality in wheat and wants to find ways to reduce pests and help farmers reach higher yields.

“Land grant universities like the University of Illinois can focus on developing those varieties that could be commercialized to farmers without worrying about funding or where funding is going to come from over the

course of their research,” Semple said.

Semple noted that Illinois has five wheat mills in or closely bordering the state. Although wheat can be a bit of an afterthought following corn and soybeans, it is still a great crop to have in a rotation, and that’s beginning to show.

“Illinois is a significant player in the market,” Semple said of the state’s

production of soft red winter and eastern winter wheat. “It needs to be recognized, and I think this checkoff is a step in the right direction.”

This story was distributed through a cooperative project between Illinois Farm Bureau and the Illinois Press Association. For more food and farming news, visit FarmWeekNow. com

budgets show soybeans more profitable than corn

The acreage shift in Illinois is projected to be lighter with 3% fewer soybean acres and 3% more corn acres.

But while market movements in recent months have generally favored corn, Schnitkey said projected per-acre returns continue to favor soybeans across regions of Illinois.

The U of I farmdoc team’s projected soybean return advantage of $39 per acre in central Illinois for 2025 is based on projected cash prices of $4.10 per bushel for corn and $10 for soybeans.

Projected soybean returns also exceed corn returns by $47 per acre in northern Illinois and $14 per acre in southern Illinois, according to farmdoc’s updated budgets.

“Part of that is due to

cost increases and specifically nitrogen costs having a pretty big impact on corn,” Schnitkey said.

Soybean yields are also higher in Illinois compared to states further west, which helps the local soybean balance sheet.

“We’ve had such an increase in soybean yields over time that soybeans stack in there pretty well with corn,” Schnitkey said.

But, with most inputs purchased and planting season underway, significant adjustments to acreage decisions aren’t likely in the weeks ahead. However, spring weather and planting conditions, along with ongoing market developments, will continue to be monitored as those factors have the potential to cause smaller

While the corn/soybean ratio has leaned toward corn so far this year, budget estimates suggest beans could still be more profitable in many regions of the state this season.

shifts in planted acreage. This story was distributed through a cooperative project between Illinois Farm Bureau and the Illinois Press Association. For more food and farming news, visit FarmWeekNow.com

Trade talks heat up with India, Europe

BY TAMMIE SLOUP FARMWEEK

THEU.S. and India have made progress toward a bilateral trade agreement, with both governments announcing the establishment of a roadmap for negotiations.

On April 21, Vice President JD Vance and India Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Terms of Reference (TOR) for a bilateral trade agreement between the United States and India. The announcement follows Vance’s recent trip to India.

The countries hope to seal a bilateral trade agreement this year and have set an ambitious target of more than doubling their bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.

The U.S. has long recognized significant trade barriers with India, with the U.S. running a $45.7 billion goods trade deficit with India in 2024 — a 5.1% ($2.2 billion) increase over 2023.

“I am pleased to confirm that USTR and India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry have finalized the Terms of Reference to lay down a roadmap for

the negotiations on reciprocal trade,” U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer said. “There is a serious lack of reciprocity in the trade relationship with India. These ongoing talks will help achieve balance and reciprocity by opening new markets for American goods and addressing unfair practices that harm American workers. India’s constructive engagement so far has been welcomed and I look forward to creating new opportunities for workers, farmers and entrepreneurs in both countries.”

Goals for the United States include increasing market access, reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers and negotiating a robust set of additional commitments to ensure long-term benefits, according to USTR.

Vance’s and Modi’s statement reaffirmed the importance of the India-U.S. COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) initiative and highlights the progress in the negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement launched by President Donald Trump and Modi

in Washington in February.

U.S. total goods trade with India was an estimated $129.2 billion in 2024. India’s average applied tariff is 17%, among the highest of the world’s largest economies, while the U.S. average applied tariff is 3.3%. India’s average applied tariff rate on agricultural products is 39% while the U.S. average applied tariff on agricultural products is just 5%.

In addition to tariffs, technical barriers to trade, regulatory barriers, and restrictions on access to the market in the services, industrial, and agricultural sectors also reduce U.S. exports to India.

On April 2, Trump imposed a 10% tariff on all countries and individualized reciprocal higher tariffs on nations with which the U.S. has the largest trade deficits to level the playing field.

“The TOR announcement with India is a critical step forward in negotiations with India to achieve reciprocal trade with one of our most strategic partners and deliver results to the American people,” according to a USTR fact sheet.

(PHOTO BY CATRINA RAWSON OF FARMWEEK)

A train passes by farm fields during a recent harvest in Champaign County. Trade talks progressed recently with India and Europe, which could lead to deals to help find markets for the 2025 crops and other farm commodities.

Trade deal with Europe?

Trump and Italy Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni were optimistic about a trade deal following a White House meeting April 17.

“There will be a trade deal, 100%,” Trump said. “Of course there will be a trade deal. They want to make one very much,

and we are going to make a trade deal, I fully expect it, but it will be a fair deal.”

Meloni is the first European leader to visit Washington since Trump imposed, then paused, 20% tariffs on imports from the European Union.

While she can’t negotiate on behalf of the entire 27-member bloc, Meloni told reporters, “I’m sure

we can make a deal.” European goods are still subject to Trump’s 10% global tariff. This story was distributed through a cooperative project between Illinois Farm Bureau and the Illinois Press Association. For more food and farming news, visit FarmWeekNow.com

(PHOTO BY CATRINA RAWSON OF FARMWEEK)

(PHOTO BY CATRINA RAWSON OF FARMWEEK)

LOCAL NEWS

(COURTESY PHOTO)

On June 3, the Floyd J. Tilton VFW Post #3878 conducted its seventh drawing in their current Queen of Hearts game with a jackpot of $125,410. James E. “Ed” Anders’s ticket was drawn, and he selected #53 which revealed the Queen of Hearts.

Anders presented with VFW Queen of Hearts winnings, donations to be made

ROCHELLE — On

RVCU names Member Experience Manager/Community Relations Manager

LOVES PARK

Rock Valley Credit Union (RVCU), a local and independent financial institution that offers personal solutions for individual and family banking needs, recently announced that Kim Morris has joined them as a member experience and community relations manager.

June 3, the Floyd J. Tilton VFW Post #3878 conducted its seventh drawing in their current Queen of Hearts game with a jackpot of $125,410. James E. “Ed” Anders’s ticket was drawn, and he selected #53 which revealed the Queen of Hearts. This made him the winner of 65% of the jackpot which amounts to $81,516.50 before taxes.

On June 6, Post Commander Dennis Orlikowski and Club Operations Manager Robin Gounaris presented the check to Anders at VFW Post #3878.

Anders is a resident of Rochelle and a frequent customer of the Post. Anders stated that he doesn’t have any big plans for the money and expects that he will spend some of it having fun.

See VFW page 12

DIRECTORY OF AREA HUMAN SERVICES

Alcohol Abuse Counseling & Recovery

A.A. Hotline

Sinnissippi Centers, Inc.

Oregon

800-452-7990

732-3157

Rochelle 562-3801

Domestic Abuse Agency and 24-Hour Shelter and Helpline

HOPE of Ogle County

562-8890 or 732-7796

Confidential counseling services, court advocacy, Latina advocacy and shelter programs

Low Income Housing

Ogle County Housing Authority

1001 Pines Rd, Suite A, Oregon

Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County

P.O. Box 628

Oregon, IL 61061

Mental Health

Family Counseling Services

Sinnissippi Centers, Inc.

Oregon

732-1301

815-222-8869

962-5585

732-3157

Rochelle 562-3801

The Serenity Shed Grief Services 732-2499

Senior Citizens Services

Hub City Senior Center

562-5050

Mt Morris Senior & Community Center 734-6335 Polo Senior Center 946-3818

Rock River Center 732-3252 Oregon, IL 800-541-5479 Sexual

In her new role, Morris is responsible for RVCU’s community financial education initiatives including the NIU student athlete wellness program and member experience. In this role, she will share her passion for people, progress, and community impact. Morris has more than 20 years in the credit union industry and holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations and marketing from Ashford University. She also dedicates her time to improving her community by serving on local boards such as the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, Fox Valley Chapter of Credit Unions, and volunteers as an Ambassador for the Young Professionals program for the Illinois Credit Union League.

Rock Valley Credit Union (RVCU), a local and independent financial institution that offers personal solutions for individual and family banking needs, recently announced that Kim Morris has joined them as a member experience and community relations manager.

Rock Valley Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial institution owned and operated by its members since 1968. Its field of membership includes Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, DeKalb, Lee and Stephenson Counties, IL, and Green, Rock and Walworth Counties, WI. RVCU prides itself in

customized services for each of its 16,000+ members and is dedicated to supporting more than 30 community events and organizations each year. RVCU is headquartered in Loves Park, with additional locations in Rochelle and Machesney Park, IL. For more information, visit rockvalleycreditunion.org

Oregon Chamber announces rebranding, restructuring, and relocation

OREGON – The Oregon Area Chamber of Commerce is launching a strategic rebranding and restructuring to strengthen how we serve our members and community. As part of this transition, the Chamber is relocating to Sarah Phelps Plaza at 418 W. Washington St., Oregon — a move that enhances our partnership with the City of Oregon and transforms the plaza into a central space for events, outreach, and visibility.

The relocation allows us to operate more economically while opening up our prime downtown location at 122 N. 4th Street for a new business, creating a fresh opportunity for local economic growth. The building will be offered first to chamber members. Not a member yet? Join now to gain first access before it’s

listed publicly. This move is part of a broader shift to become more visible, flexible, and responsive — prioritizing real value for our business community during a time when many rural chambers are reevaluating how to remain relevant.

“We are a Chamber of Commerce,” Executive Director Chance D. Munroe said. “We are not in the business of owning buildings; we are in the business of servicing and representing our members and the community. With this transition and rebrand, we are answering the question that has faced us the last year and a half. What do we need to do to stay relevant in 2025 and beyond? This question is not unique to us in the Oregon area but rather to Chambers and Civic Organizations

across rural America. We have some exciting things coming that we cannot wait to share with you!”

The chamber is a nonprofit organization that receives no operational funding from the city or state, relying entirely on memberships and sponsorships. This transition is designed to help us stretch those dollars further and increase our impact.

“This move gives the chamber a great opportunity to be more accessible, responsive, and efficient— helping them better support their members and make a bigger impact in the community,” Oregon City Manager Darin DeHaan said. For more information, partnership opportunities, or to get involved, contact us at 815.732.2100 or chamber.director@oregonil.com

Rock, other state’s attorneys, call for state ban on firearms to be ruled unconstitutional

OREGON — Ogle

County State’s Attorney Mike Rock, along with the state’s attorneys of 34 other Illinois counties, has filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals’ Seventh Circuit, arguing Illinois’ ban on so-called assault weapons is unconstitutional.

In the amicus brief, also known as a friend-ofthe-court brief, the state’s attorneys argue that the ban enacted by the Illinois legislature is unconstitutional because it broadly bans entire categories of firearms that are widely owned by law-abiding Illinoisans, and the ban does not follow

the historical tradition of firearm regulation in the United States.

Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine is the lead attorney in the amicus brief.Additional counsel for the brief are the state’s attorneys of Brown, Calhoun, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Clay, Clinton, Cumberland, Edwards, Effingham, Gallatin, Hancock, Henry, Iroquois, Jasper, Jefferson, Jersey, Jo Daviess, Johnson, Livingston, Marion, Mercer, Monroe, Ogle, Perry, Pulaski, Schuyler, Scott, Union, Vermilion, Warren, Washington, White and Woodford counties.

“State’s attorneys have

a duty to ensure that the laws we enforce are constitutional,” Rock said. “This law – which purports to ban this widely owned type of firearm that accounts for only a tiny portion of violent crime in our state and nation clearly is unconstitutional. I am happy to partner with so many other Illinois State’s Attorneys in asking the Seventh Circuit to throw out this law and protect our basic right of effective self- defense of hearth and home in Illinois and the rest of America.”

The ban was approved by the Illinois legislature in January 2023. It bans the sale, purchase and manufacturing of firearms that the legislature defined as “assault weapons,” such as AR-15-style rifles. The amicus brief was filed in an appeal currently before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and stems from a challenge to the ban filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois. In November 2024, the Honorable U.S. District Judge Stephen McGlynn found the ban to be unconstitutional; an appeal of his ruling is now before the Seventh Circuit.

(COURTESY PHOTO)

LOCAL NEWS

Ogle County Democrats hold Community Building picnic

OREGON — The Ogle County Democrats held a Community Building picnic on Sunday, June 22 at beautiful White Pines State Park. Despite the heat, there was a good turnout of 50 people who gathered in the shade to enjoy brats and hotdogs and great conversation. Three candidates joined the group for the afternoon: Joe Albright and Paul Nolley, who are running for Congress in the 16th District against Darin LaHood, and Joe Berning, who is running for state senator in the 45th District against Andrew Chesney.

“The Ogle County Democrats are growing our party through building community for democracy.” Linda Pottinger, party

chair, said. “We know that people are concerned about what is happening in our government at the federal level as demonstrated by the turnout in four protests this year. On June 14, we had a turnout of about 500 people demonstrating against the authoritarian behavior we are seeing from Mr. Trump and his cabinet. These were not just Democrats who came to Oregon with some wonderful signs – there were Republicans and Independents who are afraid of how the destruction of government agencies is affecting all of us.”

The goal of the Ogle County Democratic party is to find and support good Democratic candidates, who believe in democracy and support

of the Constitution, to run for all levels of government from local seats to federal positions. “We want to hear from everyone in our community about how the Democratic party can help improve our lives in Ogle County and engage in meaningful conversations with Republicans to find common ground and policies we can agree on,” said Pottinger. “That is what we mean by building community.”

The organization’s website is https://oglecountydems.org/ and you can follow them on Facebook at Ogle County IL – Democratic Party. Their 27 th annual Fall Fundraiser will be on Sunday, Sept. 28 at Historic Stronghold Castle.

Saint Mary’s College names Dean’s List

NOTRE DAME,

Ind.— The following students have been named to the Saint Mary’s College Dean’s List for the Spring 2025 semester:

Abigail Fletcher of Mt. Morris.

To earn this academic honor at Saint Mary’s, a student must achieve a grade point average

(GPA) of at least 3.6 on a 4.0 scale, have a minimum of 12 graded credit hours, no incompletes, and no grades lower than a C.

Oregon Park District honored with National Award for Outstanding Budget Presentation

OREGON — The Oregon Park District is proud to announce that we have been awarded the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). This prestigious national recognition celebrates excellence in budgeting and reflects our ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective financial planning.

Receiving this award is a significant achievement for the organization. It recognizes the hard work

and dedication of the leadership team and staff in creating a budget that is not only fiscally responsible but also clear, accessible, and informative for the community we serve.

To earn this honor, our budget was evaluated against nationally recognized guidelines and had to demonstrate excellence in four essential categories: As a policy document; as a financial plan; as an operations guide and as a communications tool.

Budgets must be rated “proficient” in all four categories, including 14 mandatory criteria, to receive the award. With more than 1,700 government entities participating in GFOA’s Budget Awards Program, we are honored to be recognized among the top organizations in North America for budgeting excellence.

Erin Folk, executive director, said, “I would like to thank our entire team — especially our leadership — for their extra effort and dedication throughout this process. This achievement would not have been possible without their hard work.”

OREGON — The First Fridays Open Mic will take place one week late in July, on the 11th instead of the fourth. It will, as always, feature singers and musicians at all skill levels, performing for an appreciative audience.

The show starts at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, although a jar is available for donations. Performers can sign up for time slots on a first-come-first-serve basis, so it’s best to arrive by 6 p.m. or earlier. Interested parties who have questions can contact Jerry Tice, at 815-449-2660. The VFW is located at 1310 W. Washington St. in Oregon. It provides ample parking, along with the availability of a restaurant and bar within the building. A fish fry runs from 4-8 p.m.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

July 2, 4: The Kable Band will be bringing two patriotic concerts. Don’t miss the July 2 concert on the Mt. Morris campus and on July 4, the Kable Band will perform behind the former DLR school on Brayton Road., just prior to the fireworks. Ice cream social at 7 p.m. Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. Favorite patriotic tunes and rousing march-

es will fill the air! Let’s “Say it with Music”.

July 3: The Polo Farmers Market, located at the Polo Marketplace (under the pavilion) just south of Shell on South Division Ave. will be held on Thursdays 3-6 p.m. (weather permitting).

July 12: The 24th Annual Hib Reber Memorial Car Show will be held on July 12 at the United

Brought to you by these sponsors:

Church of Byron, (corner of Colfax Street and 2nd Street.). Along with the car show, the Church will be hosting their annual Trash & Treasure Sale with concessions. Registration is fee is $10 prior to July 3, after July 3, it’s $15. Registration is 8-11 a.m., voting noon-1 p.m., Awards 2 p.m. Car Show participants are invited to join the By-

ronFest Parade at 3 p.m.

All makes of cars, trucks, and motorcycles are welcome. Top 50 Awards are by participant voting, 20+ Best of Awards are judged. Door Prizes will be given throughout the day. Vendor booths are available for a $15 fee. More information check webpage www.hibrebercarshow.com or www. Facebook.com/Hibreber-

carshow

July 19: Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lindenwood will be hosting a one-day Vacation Bible School on Saturday, July 19 from 3-6 p.m. Our theme this year is “Going Fishing,” based on Luke 5. We will learn how God calls all of us to “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men!” (Matthew 4:19). Families are

invited to stay after the VBS at 6 p.m. for a free cookout. All children ages three through entering sixth grade are invited. Online registration is now open at immanuel-lindenwood.org

Aug. 5: The Oregon Police Department will host National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 5 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the 100 block of North 2nd Street.

Dobro player and singer Larry Wallace, second from the right, is a frequent performer at First Fridays.

(COURTESY PHOTO)

The Ogle County Democrats held a Community Building picnic on Sunday, June 22 at beautiful White Pines State Park.

(COURTESY PHOTO)

DRIVE TIME

Avoid emotional driving this summer

YOU’VE proba-

bly heard about the dangers of road rage, but did you know that other emotions can compromise your safety behind the wheel?

Anger, anxiety and even joy can lead to unsafe driving practices. Here are some ways to prevent your feelings from overriding your decision-making while on the road.

Beware of positive energy

It’s not only negative emotions that can adversely affect your driving. It’s easy to get a little too relaxed when you’re cruising with friends or eager to share some good news with your family. Your road trip playlist may put you in a great mood but can also make your foot a little heavier on the gas pedal. Enjoy your drive, but don’t let yourself get distracted.

Check yourself before

CAMERAS and sensors are becoming common features on new cars, providing advanced driver benefits like collision prevention and lane-changing assistance. Here’s what you can do to keep them working for you.

Dirty sensors are in -

turning the key

When you get behind the wheel, take a few deep breaths to ground yourself before starting the engine. Be mindful of any circum-stances that may cause excitement, irritation or concern. Then, take a moment to consciously shift your attention to the task of driving.

Prepare yourself for the road conditions

Manage your expectations by checking traffic reports and weather forecasts before setting out. If the prospect of driving in heavy traffic or stormy conditions makes you anxious, consider an alternative plan. If you have no choice but to drive, try some relaxation techniques to calm your mind before hitting the road.

Give yourself plenty of time

Impatience or fear of showing up late for an appointment can lead to

effective. As a result, you lose the road safety benefits these technological tools are designed to provide, putting yourself and others at risk.

In addition, if you regularly rely on these systems to perform certain maneuvers, like backing up, you may run

anger and irrational decisions while you drive. If you must be at your destination at a fixed time, set

into trouble if they’re too dirty to provide reliable guidance.

Before hitting the road, ensure your car’s sensors and cameras are clean. In summer, mud and dust — especially on gravel roads — can obscure them as quickly as snow and slush in winter. Take care!

out early enough to allow for unexpected delays. If getting there on time is optional, try to make

peace with the possibility of showing up later than you’d like. Keeping your car in

good condition will reduce your distractions on the road. When did you last have a tune-up?

3 tips for taking a road trip in an electric vehicle

DO you want to take your electric vehicle on a road trip this summer? Imagine the distance you can cover, taking in landscapes and exploring locations you’ve never seen before. Keep these three tips in mind as you prepare for your adventure.

1. Scope out charging stations

Do some research before your trip to identify where you can charge your car. Use those points as pit stops for a meal break, a quick stretch or an overnight stay. Look for a convenient phone

app indicating available charging stations along your route.

2. Leave home with a full charge

While charging your car to 100% daily can negatively affect battery efficiency over time, it’s best to start your trip with maximum energy. You’ll be able to travel a greater distance before having to plug in. It’ll also give you peace of mind in case you have to make an unplanned detour.

3. Adopt good driving habits

Your electric vehicle’s battery capacity depends on

several factors, including your driving speed and acceleration. Exceeding the speed limit or driving aggressively can cause your battery to drain faster. It’s best for your car if you take your time, and it’ll give you more time to take in the scenery. Finally, as with any vehicle, it’s wise to have your electric car professionally inspected before departure. Before taking to the highway, have a mechanic check your tire pressure, brakes, headlights, turn signals, windshield and wiper blades.

LOCAL NEWS

VFW:

From page 8

‘It is rewarding to be able to present these winning checks...’

“It is rewarding to be able to present these winning checks, but it’s especially rewarding to be presenting it to a consistent friend of our organization,” Orlikowski said.

“It’s equally rewarding to be giving a portion of the jackpot to deserving organizations which help our community as well as our veterans.”

The Gambling Committee of the Post Board of Directors met on Monday, June 9 to make decisions affecting the new Queen of Hearts game. They decided to increase the

amount of the starting jackpot to $10,000, and the first drawing of this game will be on Tuesday, June 17. They also decided to increase the amount of money which will be distributed to local and veteran organizations to $22,000.

Additionally, the

Committee decided that the following organizations will receive the listed amounts: Presbyterian Thrift Shop - $5,000

Rochelle Christian Food Pantry - $5,000

Rochelle Little League - $2,000

Rochelle Rescue Mis -

SAVANNA — Conservative State Representative and House Republican Leader Tony McCombie officially announced her campaign for re-election in the 89th District on June 24.

“I went to Springfield to stand up for the families of my district and defend the conservative values we share,” said

McCombie. “When elected officials forget who they work for, our families, our communities, and our future pay the price. I’m proud to fight for and bring common sense to state government.”

Unanimously elected by her colleagues as House Republican Leader in both 2022 and 2024,

McCombie as earned a reputation as a no-nonsense leader who speaks her mind and delivers results.

“I’m proud to lead one of the most conservative Republican caucuses in Illinois history, standing strong for taxpayers and families. Under my leadership our whole caucus has held firm against

every tax increase, and we’re working every day to restore fiscal sanity, public safety, and trust in state government.”

McCombie reaffirmed her deep commitment to the 89th District, saying, “Thanks to extreme Democrats, families are struggling with rising costs and facing real concerns about safety

Rochelle VFW is looking forward to this next game and the opportunity to build up this jackpot for the next winner, recipient organizations, and the Post itself.

sion - $5,000 VetsRoll, Inc. - $5,000 Post Adjutant/Quartermaster Joe Drought stated that since the starting of the Queen of Hearts, the Rochelle VFW has “presented at least 50 checks to 29 different organizations for a total of at least $233,432 to community and veteran organizations so far, including the latest $22,000.”

McCombie announces re-election campaign

and opportunity. Illinois is my home, where I live, where I work, and where I serve, and I will never stop fighting to make sure we have a voice in Springfield. I’m running for reelection because Illinois has a bright future, but only if we protect what makes it special and stand up to the broken politics of the past.”

McCombie is a licensed real estate appraiser and realtor. She previously served as mayor of Savanna, and on the Savanna City Council. She is a graduate of Western Illinois University.

She has been married

to Curt, a volunteer fireman and lab technician at DuPont in Thomson, for 19 years. She is part of a close-knit and active family, and her time revolves around them and outdoor recreational activities.

While many issues face the state, McCombie cites education, job growth, ethics reform, restoring public safety, and strong constituent service as her top priorities.

McCombie will run in the 89th Illinois House District, which includes all of Carroll and Jo Daviess Counties and parts of Boone, DeKalb, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago counties.

UW-Madison announces spring

Dean’s List

MADISON, Wis.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison has recognized students named to the Dean’s List for the spring semester of the 2024-2025 academic year.

Students who achieve at a high level academically are recognized by the dean at the close of each semester. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, students must complete a minimum of 12 graded degree credits in that se-

mester. Each university school or college sets its own GPA requirements for students to be eligible to receive the distinction.

Local students honored include: Baileyville’s Ella Carlson, Col of Agricultural & Life Sci, Dean’s List; Byron’s Ashley Dunham, School of Pharmacy, Honor Roll; and Chana’s Jacob Rhodes, Col of Agricultural & Life Sci, Dean’s List.

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MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2025 • SECTION B • PAGE 1

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Oregon teen paralyzed in pool accident; family seeks support

OREGON — An Oregon teen recently suffered a pool accident that left him paralyzed and his family is seeking support, a GoFundMe said.

Nathan Avery of Oregon was swimming the night of June 17 when he dove into a pool and hit the bottom, breaking his neck and shattering his C5 vertebrae, putting pressure on his spinal cord and paralyzing him from the nipples down. He was rushed to Jevon Bea Hospital in Rockford by ambulance, and from there he was airlifted to UW Madison in Wisconsin, the GoFundMe established by his sister, Mackenzie, said.

“He underwent a sixhour surgery where they removed the shattered vertebrae and stabilized his neck to take the pressure off of his spinal cord,” Mackenzie Avery said. “He was on a breathing tube with 100% oxygen due to aspiration. Around 4:30 a.m., they were able to lower the oxygen to 60%. The doctors came in and tried mobility exercises but he was unable to squeeze his hands, move his fingers and still can’t move any part of his body from his nipples

Nathan Avery of Oregon was swimming the night of June 17 when he dove into a pool and hit the bottom, breaking his neck and shattering his C5 vertebrae, putting pressure on his spinal cord and paralyzing him from the nipples down.

down.”

Nathan will be in the hospital until he is able to go to an acute rehabilitation center for intense physical

therapy. The family hopes he will get some movement back, at least in his arms. He now faces a long road to recovery in intensive re-

hab. The GoFundMe was launched to help cover medical costs, rehabilitation, and support during his life-altering journey.

As of June 26, the GoFundMe had raised $5,156 with 31 donations. The family has set a $5,500 goal. The fund-

raiser can be found here: https://www.gofundme. com/f/support-nathans-recovery-after-neck-injury?cdn-cache=0

(COURTESY PHOTO)

LOCAL NEWS

The Oregon Public Library will be closed on Friday, July 4th!

Level Up at Your Library summer reading program continues!

Registration for the 2025 youth summer reading program at the Oregon Public Library began on May 19th and is ongoing!

This program, June 2 - July 25, is available to Oregon library district residents 3 years old through 11th grade. Activities, books, prizes, story time, special presenters, movies and more are all a part of the program. Registration is required, so contact the library for more details. And there’s more.... an Adult Summer Reading program is also available for those 18 years and older!

Summer Reading Program Schedule

all programs. Monday, June 30, Story Time 10 am (18 months-6 yrs.) Tuesday, July 1, Activity Time, 1:30 pm (grades 1st & up). Friday, July 4, Library Closed for Fourth of July. Monday, July 7 Story Time 10 am (18 months-6 yrs.)

Color Game Show

Monday, July 7, Dan Gogh’s Color Game Show, 2 pm (All ages). Join Artist-Magician Dan Gogh using comedy, magic, and art to unlock the mystery of creativity! Magic, puppets, and comedy are all part of the fun. Meet the Author

Wednesday, July 9, Meet the Author, 6 pm (13 yrs. & up). Join us for an in-person interview with YA author, D.L. Taylor. Taylor is the author of “The Beasts We Bury”, just published in February 2025, and the first

duology. OPL’s Richard Pulfer will talk with Taylor, followed by a Q&Afrom the audience and a book signing.

Story Time Monday, July 14, Story Time, 10 am (18 months-6 yrs.)

Activity Time

Thursday, July 17,Activity Time, 1:30 pm (grades 1st & up)

Entries due Saturday, July 19 Level Up @ Your Library selected book title entries DUE FOR 3-6-year old.

Summer Eats

Free Meals for Kids & Teens (provided by the United Way of Lee County). Grab-and-go meals are provided free of charge to all kids and teens. No registration or paperwork required. Three kid-friendly lunches plus extra goodies

& ALL YOU CAN EAT BBQ Sunday, July 6th 11:00AM to 4:00PM

person. Pick up at the Oregon Public Library. Stop in and ask a librarian for more info. Lunches are available until supplies last and are resupplied each week.

Try It Tuesday Tuesday, July 15 at 1:30 pm or 5:30 pm (Choose your time slot). Diamond Painted Hummingbird Suncatchers. This is an adult-only class, 18 and up. Registration required, limited spaces. Please call (815) 732-2724 or visit www.oregonpubliclibrary. com

Book Clubs

The 2WBC meets Wednesday, July 9, at 12:30 to discuss The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Is This Just Fantasy? Book Club will meet July 15 at 6 pm at the Library to discuss Witches Steeped in Gold

colored cardstock, gorgeous designer series paper, detailed stamped images, die-cut pieces, matching ink, ribbon, and embellishments. All cards come with matching envelopes. Whether you’re a new card maker or a seasoned pro, our kits are suited to every skill level. Don’t wait! Sign up today to reserve your spot. Oregon Patrons only. Registration required, call (815) 732-2724 or visit www.oregonpubliclibrary.com

Functional Fitness

Registration is requested, visit http://www.oregonpubliclibrary.com or call (815) 732-2724.

Photo Printer at the library!

The library has a photo printer capable of printing 4 x 6, 5x7, 8x10, and 8.5 x 11 from computer, USB drive or SD card. It will not print directly from a phone. Call for more info. Community Seed Library It’s not too late to plant a garden this year. You can’t beat the taste of fresh food that you grow yourself. Come in and browse our seed library. Seeds are FREE for anyone.

Oregon Writers Group

All you can eat BBQ out on deck (unless it rains) 1st Boat eats AFTER Boat Cruise

Includes: hamburgers, hot dogs, brats, coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, corn on the cob and potato chips Beer and soft drink specials

1-Hour Boat Cruises 11:30AM to 12:30PM boards at 11:00AM & 2:30PM to 3:30PM boards at 2:00PM *Reservations Requested*

$25 each for boat cruise and BBQ $15 each for BBQ only 1469 IL RT 2, Oregon, IL | 815-732-6761 | www.maxsons.net

ternoon Book Club meets Wednesday, July 16, at 1 pm to discuss The Keeper

Cocktails and Crime will meet July 20, so stop by the Library to find

Books on Tap Book Club July at 6 pm at Cork & Tap to discuss The Husbands

Ink with A Friend

Monday, July 21 at 6:00 pm. Sending personal cards to your friends and family is a way to let them know you care and are thinking about them. All designs include beautiful

Color Our World

Wednesdays at 10:00

All kids from 3 years old summer fun! Every week we’ll celebrate all the ways our world is colorful through stories, crafts, and more! We’ll also learn how to add to the beauty around us through art, music, and science. Be sure to wear old clothes as some of the projects may be messy. Plan to join us and bring a friend! Library Fundraiser

The following events are happening at the Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center!

Breakfast with the Mayor

Don’t forget Breakfast with the Mayor on Wednesday, July 2nd from 8 am – 10 am.

Book Club

Pick up a book from the Mt. Morris Library and join us on Monday, July 7th at 11:00 am for Book Club.

Wednesdays at 9:30 am. In this class, we use exercises based on wholebody movements to restore posture, improve body mechanics, build strength and endurance, and finetune balancing skills. We start with a slow warm-up followed by core exercises – then explore how to utilize these tools based on real situations in daily life. Bring your yoga mat! All levels are welcome. - OREGON PATRONS ONLY

- Registration required, this class fills quickly. Please call (815) 732-2724 or visit http://www.oregonpubliclibrary.com.

Knit & Crochet

Mondays at 1:00 pm. This group meets every Monday at 1 pm and is open to anyone. From beginner to expert, all skill level are welcome to join. Bring any hand craft and work on it while socializing. Need help getting started with your knitting project, stop in on a Monday.

Looking for a delicious way to help support the library? We are currently taking orders for apple cider donuts from Berryview Orchard. Donuts are $6.00 per half dozen and must be ordered and prepaid by Thursday, July 10th. Pickup will be Saturday, July 12th at the library from 10:00 until noon. Order forms are available at the library and at Koeller Forreston Hardware.

Community Room

Looking for a place to hold your event? Our community room (with a small kitchenette) is avail-

Summer Potluck

Our Summer Potluck is Tuesday, July 8th at 12:00. Bring a dish to share.

Games

Join us for games on our front lawn (9 East Front Street, Mt. Morris) on July 9th at 4 pm!

Lunch Go out to lunch with us at Mom’s Diner at 11:30 on Thursday, July 10th

Euchre night

Enjoy a Euchre night with us on July 10th at 6:00

Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10:00 am The OWG is a gathering of writers or writer-wannabes who meet to support each other and further their own writing. The purpose of the group is to help and encourage you in your writing. If you need brainstorming ideas, we can help suggest ideas or aid with the creative process.

OPLD Dial-A-Story & Oregon Public Library StoryWalk @ Oregon Park West Call 815-732-2724, follow the prompts and presto...a story! Current story- When the Sky Roars by Katie Weaver. Available at the StoryWalk is Pete the Cat Plays Hide & Seek by Kimberly & James Dean.

able for meetings, parties, showers, family reunions, and more. Please call the library at (815)938-2624 for additional information. Soft Plastic Recycling We are collecting filmtype plastic for recycling. This includes plastic bags, zipper type baggies (with the zip portion removed), cereal/snack bags, bubble wrap, and other soft plastic. Please make sure bags are free from debris and remove all paper/sticker labels. Also, please note that we cannot accept any type of animal food bag, including bird seed. Thank you!

pm. It is free to play and all are welcome! Prizes will be awarded!

Dinner

The Center will be serving dinner on the Campus on Friday July 11th. Join us for authentic Mexican street tacos! YUM!

Exercise class

We have an ongoing Highland Sponsored exercise class at The Center

LOCAL NEWS

Special Hours

The Byron Public Library

will be closed Friday, July 4, in observation of the Independence Day holiday. We will reopen for our regular hours on Saturday, July 5. We wish all of our patrons a safe and happy 4th of July!

Movie Showing:

Top Gun: Maverick

Tuesday, July 1. 1 –3:00 pm. After more than thirty years of service as a top naval aviator, Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise) is where

Summer Reading Challenge Scoop, here it is! It’s finally Summer, and if you’re like us, you’re ready to chill... with a stack of library books and plenty of sweet treats. You can satisfy BOTH of those cravings with our 2025 Summer Reading Program: Scoop Up A Good Book! When you participate, you’ll collect badges by logging your reading, completing fun activities and attending library programs... for a chance to win real prizes. It’s fun. It’s easy. It’s free! ALLAGES. May 26 – Aug 2.

European Travel: Portugal? PortuGo!

The sun shines on Portugal: its stunning cliffs, teal-blue waters, tiled buildings, windswept castles and mosaic-laid streets. Join frequent fliers, Joanna and Wayne, for an inspirational journey through this beautiful country: its regions, sample itineraries and insider tips. Monday, June 30, 6 p.m. Adults. Registration required: 815-645-8611.

he belongs, pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot. Please call 815234-5107 to register for this program.

Crossroads Blues Society Presents Wheatbread Johnson Thursday, July 10. 1 – 3:00 pm. Kick back and enjoy the sounds of live blues music played by the one and only Wheatbread Johnson - Good vibes, great tunes, and stories you’ll be talking about long after the last note fades. Please call 815-

Tween Scene: Ice Cream Pop Art

Celebrate summer by creating a masterpiece depicting ice cream in the iconic Pop Art style. Tuesday, July 8, 6 p.m. Ages 10-13. Registration required: 815-645-8611.

Storytime in the Park

Join us for a special storytime in Davis Junction Park! We’ll enjoy stories, songs and parachute play. Feel free to bring blankets or lawn chairs for your comfort. Ages 2-9. Wednesday, July 9, 10 a.m. Registration required: 815-645-8611.

Toddler Time: Bubble Play

Bubble, Bubble, bubble…pop! Indulge your little one’s curiosity as we play with bubbles big and small. Friday, July 11, 10 a.m. All materials supplied. Ages 1-4. Registration required: 815645-8611.

Preschool Playdate

Preschool storytime is taking a short summer vacation. In the meantime, you can join us each Wednesday at 10 a.m.

234-5107 to register for this program.

Creative Studio

Our Creative Studio is open on Sunday afternoons and two evenings a week, so stop by for monthly crafts and to use our maker space equipment! Crafts out on the tables are free of charge, while some other projects will incur a cost depending on materials. Middle school and high school youth can use some of the materials while with an adult, or during Teen

Time. Creative Studio hours: Sunday 1 - 5:00 pm, Monday 9:00 am-1:00 pm & 5 – 8:00 pm, Tuesday 9 am - 1:00 pm & 5 – 8:00 pm, Wednesday 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, Thursday 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, Friday & Saturday closed.

Check out

Our Mobile App

Did you know that there is an easy way to use the library from your phone?

Just download the PrairieCat app to your phone or mobile device and log in with your library card

Hull District Library

Jerry’s ice cream truck, generously

for a Preschool Playdate. Join fellow kids and their caregivers to socialize, play and build friendships. Each week will feature a unique, self-directed activity. Registration required to ensure we have enough activities available: 815-645-8611.

Community Blood Drive

The need for blood doesn’t take a bummer break! Be a lifesaver to

Library

number and PIN! You’ll be able to view your checkouts and holds, renew renewable materials, and search the library catalog. There’s even a digital copy of your library card!

Curbside Delivery

The library is open for browsing, but patrons can still use our curbside service! Place your holds online at byronlibrary.org or call us at 815-234-5107.

Not sure what you want?

Call us for help! We will call or email you with a confirmation when your

holds are ready to be picked up. Call us when you arrive at the library, and we will bring your items out to you, already checked out. A receipt with your due dates will be included with your items. Visit the Byron Library Facebook page, or subscribe to our newsletters at byronlibrary.org, to keep up to date on library news and programs! Be sure to also check out the Byron Library and Byron Library Teen Instagram pages!

BYRON PUBLIC LIBRARY

At left, the Byron Library’s all-day Dungeons & Dragons Extravaganza was a blast! The teens journeyed through White Plume Mountain and survived to tell the tale. Many thanks to our five Dungeon Masters! At right, Patrons enjoyed the evening crafting a charming miniature nature scene inside of a magnetic tin.

(COURTESY PHOTOS)

JULIA HULL DISTRICT LIBRARY

(COURTESY PHOTOS)

Julia

celebrated the first day of summer with an ice cream social featuring the Ben &

sponsored by Friends of the Library.

LOCAL NEWS

Rock River Center is a resource center located at 810 S. 10th Street, Oregon. Our activities and trips are open to all ages. Call our office @ 815-732-3252 for assistance with Benefit Access Application for a license plate discount, Medicare, housing, homemaker service, heating assistance or other things. Visit us at www.rockrivercenter.org and like us on Facebook.

Zack Percell of TNZ Magic on July 2 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Advance Registration requested.

8:30 a.m. on Monday, July 7. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday. THE SERENITY SHED – July 7 10:00 – 11:00 A.M.

Advance Registration Requested.

SUNSHINE CLUB on July 7

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Diamond Art Flower Keychain TAI CHI - Next Classes – July 7 & July 9 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.Advance Registration Required. OUTING OF THE MONTH – July 10

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Meets: 4th Wednesday in February, May, August & November. Time: 2:00 –3:00 p.m. 24 Hour Advance Registration Required.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

Meets: 1st Wednesday of the month. Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

LOW VISION GROUP

Meets: 2nd and 4th Tuesday of month. Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. For more information on any of our Support Groups, call Rock River Center at 815-732-3252 or 1-800-541-5479. ROCK RIVER CENTER ACTIVITIES

From Combs to Kitchen Beekeeping Program

Monday, June 30th at 6:00PM: Curious about the honey used in your tea or on your toast? Learn about the process bees take to create that delicious, sweet flavor.

Apiarists Mark & Mary

Beth Overmyer will share how they harvest the honey from the combs and into jars for you to enjoy!

Adult Summer Read-

ing

Adult Summer Reading is here!! Sign up today

RRC Holiday Hours Rock River Center will close on Friday, July 4, 2025, in recognition of Independence Day. No activities/programs, services, or transportation will take place while the Center is closed. We will reopen at

at the circulation desk to receive your reading log. When your log is completed, turn it in for a goodie bag and a chance to win a grand prize. The more logs you fill in, the more chances you have to win that grand prize! Get started today; the contest ends August 31st.

Color Our World Summer Reading Program

Thursdays June 5th-July

10th, 10:30AM: Miss Stacey has taught us about color in animals, science, and nature so far. We’ve listened

CRAFTING GROUP – July 7 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Craft:

to books, done science experiments, and created some fun crafts. We can’t wait to see what the next 2 weeks bring! Kids aged 3 years through 5th grade are encouraged to wear old clothes for messy fun!

Community Puzzle

We’ve still got a ways to go on our firework themed puzzle. Stop in to help us finish it by the 4th of July!

Spice of the Month

Cinnamon: We are familiar with it in ground or stick form, but did you

DeKalb Farmers Market. Lunch Afterward at Grubsteakers. Register by July 7 SUPPORT GROUPS @ ROCK RIVER CENTER

know it used to be considered as valuable as gold? Pick up your Spice Kit to learn more about the history of cinnamon and try two delicious recipes!

Coloring Pages

Don’t forget we have new coloring pages each week available for you to choose from.

Card Making

Card Making supplies are always available for you to create with. Call ahead for room availability.

Game Table

Meets: 3rd Tuesday of the month. Time: 10:00 –11:30 a.m.

DIABETICSUPPORT GROUP

We have a variety of board games, including checkers, for anyone to play. Stop in and bring your competitive streak.

Plastic Recycling

*No animal feed bags are allowed (cat, dog, bird, etc)* We ask that you make sure plastic is clean with no debris in the donation. Also please remove any ziploc-type seals and paper/sticker labels. Thank you for your cooperation.

NEW RELEASES Adult Books

Ogle County Sheriff’s Office begins July 4 traffic safety campaign

OREGON — The Ogle County Sheriff’s Office announced plans for July 4 traffic enforcement with a focus on impaired and unbuckled drivers. The safety campaign will run from June 20 through July 7 to encompass three summer weekends leading up to and after Independence Day.

“We’re asking all of

our residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day safely,” Sheriff Brian VanVickle said. “It’s simple: If you’re driving, don’t drink or use cannabis or other impairing substances. Our officers will be working diligently to keep impaired drivers off the road and ensure everyone is buckled up.”

The Ogle County Sheriff’s Office will join the Illinois State Police and more than 200 local police and sheriff’s departments for the statewide effort.

To celebrate safely, designate a sober driver and don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Other important tips include:

Give your designated driver your keys before you go out.

If you are impaired by alcohol, cannabis, or any other drug, call a taxi, take mass transit, use a ride-sharing service, or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely. Promptly report impaired drivers to law en-

forcement by pulling over and dialing 911. Make sure everyone in your vehicle wears their seat belt. Not only is it the law, but it’s also your best defense against an impaired driver.

The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” “Drive High Get a DUI” and “Click It or Ticket” campaigns are made possible by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. The enforcement efforts are complemented by IDOT’s “It’s Not a Game” media campaign, which emphasizes the serious consequences of impaired driving and other unsafe driving behaviors.

AREA CHURCH DIRECTORY

WINNEBAGO

Book Lovers by Emily Henry A Mind Of Her Own by Danielle Steel

1861: The Lost Peace by Jay Winik

Chapter Book

Accidental Science Discoveries: Plastic by Kenny Abdo

Picture Book

When the Sky Glows by Nell

Cross Beckerman

Nature Is an Artist by

Jennifer Lavallee

Lola Meets the Bees by Anna McQuinn

MOUNT

LOCAL NEWS

Library Closings

The Mount Morris Library will be closed on Friday, July 4 th and Saturday, July 5 th, for Independence Day weekend. We hope that everyone has a great time at the Let Freedom Ring festivities!

Mount Morris Library Hours

The Mount Morris Library is open every day Monday through Saturday. Hours are Monday through Thursday 11am7pm, Fridays 11am-5pm, and Saturdays 10am2pm. Stop by and see us!

Level up at Your Library

Monday, June 30 th at 1pm. Come on Monday at 1pm to read some great books and create some art! Ms. Olivia from the Oregon High School will be here for books and create a Found Object Sculpture! Bring your own ‘found objects’ or use ours! This will be a great time to display your creativity! This program is available to everyone, regardless of library card or not.

Summer Reading Program Schedule June 30 th-July 3 rd. Art in the Library! Program Monday, June 30 th 1pm (raffle ticket). Ribbon Flag Drop-In Craft Monday, June 30 th 2pm-6pm, while supplies last. GrabN-Go Craft Kit Tue-Sat, July 1st-7th while supplies last. Pre-School Story Time Wednesday, July 2 nd at 11:15am. Trivia Family Night Thursday, July 3 rd at 5:30pm. Pollinators!

POLO LIBRARY

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Tot Time Tuesdays

Tuesday mornings at 10 a.m., for ages 0 to 3, social time for the littles and grown ups, many hands-on activities, arts and music, and of course, storytime & snack!!

Minecraft Club

Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. Kids will be able to recreate real life structures while learning about architecture, physics, and circuitry.

Dungeons & Dragons for Teens

Thursdays at 5:00 p.m. Teens & Adults are wel-

Sunday, June 29 th at 2pm. Birds, Bees & Butterflies: Why pollination matters, and how humans can help. In this presentation, we’ll reveal what pollination is, and isn’t, and we’ll learn just how critical it is to our world. We’ll look at the clever designs, like flower shapes and secret codes, that Mother Nature has created to promote this critical process. We’ll also learn about creative strategies that nature lovers can employ to beautify our surroundings while simultaneously supporting hard-working pollinators like bees and butterflies. Whether you are an active gardener with dirty kneepads and garden gloves, or a less active flower enthusiast, you’ll gain new reasons to appreciate the flowering world. This program is available to all adults, no library card is required.

Touch Tank Mississippi River Museum-Thursday, July 10th at 5:30pm. Mount Morris library will be hosting a touch tank with rays from the Mississippi River Museum! Come to family night on Thursday, July 10 th at 5:30 to learn all about how we can help these creatures from here in Illinois. Then-get a chance to touch a ray!

Touch Tank is sponsored by Reising Insurance and Kandu/Rat Worx/ Custom Seal and Rubber Products, Inc. Please be sure to thank these won -

come to come & play.

ADULT MONTHLY PROGRAMS

BOOK CLUBS

2nd Fridays, July 11th at 1:00 p.m. at the Polo Senior Center. Book discussion will be Sweet Life: Adventures on the Way to Paradise by Barry Manilow. August’s book discussion will be The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by Victoria E. Schwab.

Book 2 Movie

3rd Thursdays, July 17th at 11:00 a.m. at the Polo Senior Center: Book 2 Movie. Book discussion will be Grapes of Wrath by

derful local sponsors! THANK YOU!!!

Lego Night!

Thursday, July 17 th at 6pm. Bring the family out for some awesome brick building! We will pull out #AlltheLegos for this night and kids can build whatever they can imagine. Then, they can put a name on their creation and keep it on our display for all to enjoy until the next Lego night!

Ink with a Friend

Monday, July 14 th at 5pm. We will be offering a card-making class from a local crafter, Liz Gullett. She will be here on Monday, July 14 th at 5pm! You will get all the materials to make two beautiful cards to take home. Stop by to see the samples, $5 fee when you register. Registration is limited so call the library or stop by to save your spot before July 7th!

Display Case Showings

Stop by to see the awesome display of dolls from our very own, Margaret Dannhorn. Dolls play a critical role in many families lives and these are no different. Come admire all the ups and downs of childhood through the styles of our dolls. We are always looking for collectors or artists who are willing to share their treasures in our display cases. If you are interested, please call, 815-734-4927.

Mount Morris Library is FINE FREE!

Yep! You no longer

John Steinbeck. August’s book discussion will be Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg.

Book discussion

4th Mondays, July 28th at 1:00 p.m. at the Polo Library. Book discussion will be The God of the Woods by Liz Moore. August’s book discussion will be Louisiana Longshot by Jana Deleon.

GENEALOGY

1st Wednesday (5 p.m. to 7 p.m.) and 3rd Saturdays (10 a.m. to 12 p.m.) monthly: Genealogy Assistance (Next dates: Wednesday, July 2nd &

need to worry about paying fines for late books, dvd’s, audiobooks, etc. at the Mount Morris Library! We have no fines due for late materials, just return the item and you can check out any other item at no cost! We love serving our community and invite all patrons to visit the Mount Morris Library!

Explore More Illinois

Explore More Illinois users can access, and reserve passes from any of our attractions on the Mount Morris Library website, mtmorris-il. org, under the resources page. Visit the website to browse attractions.

Hot Spots available at Mount Morris Library

The library has hotspots available to check out for use at home. These are available to Mount Morris Library card holders and will be checked out for fourteen days. Get more information from a librarian if you would like to use this free service!

Book Donations Welcome Our book sale was such a great success due to all of your wonderful donations! We are accepting donations again for the next book sale! If you have any media you no longer need or wantbring them to the Mount Morris Library! We cannot accept textbooks, encyclopedias, Reader’s Digest Condensed books, VHS tapes, or audio cassettes.

Saturday, July 19th). Donna Baumann will be here to help with genealogy questions or to research your genealogy with any resources she has access to.

STAY FIT CLASSES

DrumFIT with Terra 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, July 15th only from 6:007:00 p.m. This is a choreographed type fit class where participants use drum sticks in combination with buckets and exercise ball workout to target various areas of the body, legs, arms. For ages 12 to adult.

Yoga with Becka

Lions Club Glasses and Hearing Aids Collections

Donation boxes for eyeglass recycling are available at the library. When the boxes are full, they are picked up by local Lions members and dropped off at collection depots. These recycled eyeglasses are given to people in need, with the help of various medical missionaries, in Central and South America and around the world. When the eyeglasses arrive in these countries, doctors and technicians conduct eye exams and provide a free pair of prescription eyeglasses that are as close as possible to that person’s sight needs. When donating HEARING AIDS, please be sure to place them in a small box or hard-covered case so they do not get crushed or damaged.

Adult Programming

We would love to hear from you. Do you have any program ideas? Do evenings or weekends work better? Do you have a program you would like to share/ lead? Contact Mary Cheatwood at the library through email at mmlib@ mtmorris-il.org or call 815-734-4927. Memorial Gifts

Give a gift that lasts, brings joy to many, and doubles in value. Your memorial gift to the library is matched by the Mt. Morris Library Foundation, doubling your generosity! Many thanks to all who gave

4th Wednesdays monthly, July 23rd, 6:00-7:00 p.m. downstairs children’s library area. Encouraged to bring your own yoga mat. Registration is suggested; space is limited.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Pop-Up in the Pavilion Community Market

Monthly 3:00 p.m.6:00 p.m., June thru October. Various vendors will be at the Polo Library pavilion with crafts, produce, etc.. The first event will take place Tuesday, July 1st.

Summer Reading Program

Level Up your summer

memorial gifts in 2023. Newspaper Available!

We will now be receiving the Dixon Telegraph daily! We receive the Ogle County Life, Sauk Valley, and Mt. Morris Times. If you want to keep up with the local news-stop on by! Curbside Service is available!

We want to remind everyone that you still have the option of having your materials delivered to your vehicle. If you have holds waiting for you, call us to tell us you are on your way, and we will bring them out to your vehicle when you arrive. Call us if you need more information.

Additional Services Offered

We make copies ($0.25 per black and white page). We fax ($2 for the first page and $0.50 each additional page). We can scan a document and send it to email ($2 per document). You can use a computer without a library card for $1.00. Resume software is available on our computers. Come visit us and let us help you!

Library Board Meetings

Monthly board meetings are the third Wednesday of the month at 7pm at the library unless otherwise noted. The public is welcome to attend.

The Mount Morris Public Library is located at 105 S. McKendrie Ave. Mt. Morris IL 61054 – 815-734-4927 Fax-815-734-6035 www. mtmorris-il.org

at the Polo Library by playing BOOKOPOLY! Thursdays June 5th - July 24th. Log your book titles; Win cool prizes! Available to both children and adults.

Summer Lunch Program Grab and Go lunches will be available every Thursday until August 7th. Reminder Visit pololibrary.org to access the online catalog, to see what programs and services we offer, and for the latest public events held here at the library. Call us at 815-946-2713 for more information.

Bruce McKanna, pastor of the Evangelical Free Church of Mt. Morris, presents a check to Let Freedom Ring Committee Chairman Catherine Higley at the June 13 Jamboree. The final amount of the donation was $2,871. 100 percent of the donations received at the church’s food concession that evening.

Evangelical Free Church of Mt. Morris donates to Let Freedom Ring for fireworks

MT. MORRIS — The skies over Mt. Morris will be brighter July 4 thanks to generous donations received at a concession at the first Jamboree Friday Night Concert of the season.

The Evangelical Free Church of Mt. Morris (EFCMM) gave $2,871 to the Let Freedom Ring Committee to help purchase

fireworks for the annual Fourth of July festival. The amount is 100 percent of the donations received at the church’s food concession on June 13.

The Mt. Morris Jamboree Friday Night Concerts are held each Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. throughout the summer at the bandshell on Kable Square in the downtown. The free

concerts offer a variety of genres and draw hundreds of music lovers from all over the area.

EFCMM is located at 102 S. Seminary Ave., Mt. Morris. Worship services are held each Sunday at 10 a.m. preceded by Sunday School for all ages at 8:30 a.m. Childcare is available for children younger than 4 years old.

The Mt. Morris Jamboree along with the Let Freedom Ring Festival are pleased to welcome back 60s tribute band, SHiNDiG! for their performance at the former DLR School at 105 W. Brayton Road as part of the LFR Block Party on July 4, starting at 6 p.m.

SHiNDiG! to play Mt. Morris July 4

MT. MORRIS — The Mt. Morris Jamboree along with the Let Freedom Ring Festival are pleased to welcome back 60s tribute band, SHiNDiG! for their performance at the former DLR School at 105 W. Brayton Road as part of the LFR Block Party on July 4, starting at 6 p.m. SHiNDiG! presents a tribute to the 60s and always delivers a trip back to the greatest

and most diverse decade of rock and roll music. Covering over 90 different bands from that period of time where music told the story of an entire generation - early 60s, British invasion, psychedelic, pop, girl groups, Woodstock... are all part of the show!

Everyone fortunate to see their performances here in years past will readily attest to the excitement this band

brings to the stage.

Many food vendors will be serving at the block party from 6-9 p.m., including the Mt. Morris Masons, Hector’s Cocina, Blaz’n Magic BBQ, Just 4 Fun Ice Cream, and Bill’s Famous Lemonade.

Please bring your lawn chair or blanket down to the school and enjoy the free concert and party before the fireworks at dusk.

Bagshot Row return to Mt. Morris July 5 for LFR Car Show

MT. MORRIS — Retro pop/rock band Bagshot Row returns to the Mt. Morris band shell on July 5 from 6-9 p.m. to perform during the Let Freedom Ring Car Show. Performing the fun sounds from the 50s through the 70s, Bagshot Row adds their own identities to the best music of all time, including favorites from The Beatles, The Monkeys and The Rolling Stones all the way up to Cheap Trick. If you enjoy catchy, bouncy melodies with power pop chords and three-part harmony, all driven by a powerful backbeat, you’ll love Bagshot Row! Concessions for the evening will be provided by the Ogle County Pork Producers who will be serving pork chop sandwiches, chips, and drinks, and the LFR Committee will

Bagshot Row returns to the Mt. Morris band shell on July 5 from 6-9 p.m.

serve root beer floats from 4:30-8 p.m. Bill’s Famous Lemonade and the Center’s Popcorn Girls will likely be on site as well. Encore’s Art Gallery and the Mt. Morris Historical Museum will be open during the concert on the campus, too. Please bring a blanket or chair, or enjoy the new benches and join the fun on our beautiful, historic campus in the center of Mt. Morris, two blocks south of Illinois Route 64 on Wesley Avenue and enjoy the free rock & roll concert and all the other festive LFR activities.

Saturday, July 12

Painting class by artist Bob Diven is July 12

OREGON — On Saturday, July 12 New Mexico artist Bob Diven will offer a painting class titled “Is the Sky Blue? Is an Apple Red?” The class will be held at Conover Square’s Eagle’s Nest Art Group Studio from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The four-hour painting class will focus on seeing color through a painter’s eye. Bob will also guide participants in mixing colors and applying that color to canvas to achieve realistic effects.

The cost of the class is $50 for non-ENAG members and $45 for members, paid in advance. Participants are to bring their own supplies and a sack lunch. If you are a

beginner, some art supplies will be available at the studio. Bottled water will be provided. You can bring acrylic or oil paints. A reference image will be supplied.

All levels of painters are welcome. Bob was born in Oregon, the youngest of the five sons of Bill and Betty (Putnam) Diven. In 1964 the family moved to southern New Mexico. After serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, Bob attended The Rocky Mountain School of Art in Denver, Colorado, as well as New Mexico State University and The University of New Mexico. He began his 45-year professional

art career as a graphic designer, illustrator, and art director in advertising, publishing, and television in Albuquerque. He is a realistic painter, muralist, theatrical designer, sculptor, cartoonist, actor, film maker, writer, and musician. He has won many awards and brings a great deal of experience to every class he teaches. For more information or to register for this class, contact ENAG member Julie Kennelly at information@JulieKennelly.com or call 505220-1502.

The deadline to register is July 9. Register now since class size is limited to 15 participants.

Educational presentations take center stage at 2025 Illinois Forage Expo

DAVIS Mark your calendars for a day of learning, innovation, and community at the 2025 Illinois Forage Expo, happening Wednesday, July 30, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Eric Stiegler Farm, 9776 Illinois Route 75 East, Davis. This year’s event is co-hosted by the Don Brown Farm and the Eric Stiegler Farm.

The Expo’s educational presentations kick off at 10 a.m., offering valuable insights for forage producers, livestock managers, and ag professionals:

10 a.m. – “NRCS Updates and Cost Share Programs” with Josh Franks, NRCS 10:30 a.m. – “Pasture Improvement and Weed Control” with Kathryn Seebruck, extension educator, Agronomy, University of Illinois Extension 11 a.m. – “How Can Forage Quality Impact Animal Performance?” with Travis Meteer, extension educator, Commercial Ag, University of Illinois Extension

The Expo offers a full day of experiences, including live equipment demonstrations, equipment displays, industry exhibits, a quality hay contest, and kids’ activities.

Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend! Contact Don Brown at (815) 238-8372 for more information. The Illinois Forage Expo is sponsored by the Northwestern Illinois Forage and Grasslands Council and the Illinois Forage and Grassland Council, with support from the University of Illinois Extension and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Locals graduate from Highland Community College

FREEPORT — Highland Community College announces the 2025 spring graduates. Graduates were awarded associate degrees, associate of applied science degrees, or certificates.

Baileyville: Belinda Diddens, Associate of Science, Associate of Arts; Alexa Lancaster, Associate of Arts. Byron: Hunter Bargren,

Associate of Arts; Zachary Janovsky, Crop and Soil Science AS; Amanda Richolson, Nursing-AAS.

Forreston: Brooke Boettner, Associate of Science; Benjamin Holze, Accounting-Cert; Kayla Schmidt, Nursing AAS.

Leaf River: Bryonna Harson, Associate of Arts; Alexander Milnes, Assoc in Engineering Science;

Cassie Pals, Associate of Arts.

Oregon: Nathan Dray, Automotive Service- Level I.

Polo: Kalen Spengler, Early Childhood Education-AAS, Level 2 ECE Credentials-Cert, Level 3 ECE Credentials-Cert, Infant/Toddler Level 2 Credent, Early Care and Education.

On

New Mexico artist Bob Diven will offer a painting class titled “Is the Sky Blue? Is an Apple Red?”

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(PHOTO BY JOYCE LONG)

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LOCAL NEWS/COMICS

Branch out into summer learning with free Forestry Stewardship Series

URBANA — In sum-

mer, the shade of a large oak tree is a welcome relief from the heat. The 4.8 million acres of trees in Illinois do everything from supporting human health and providing habitat for wildlife to creating oxygen and slowing floodwaters. Learn more about Illinois trees and how you can support them in the free online Forestry Stewardship Series this July from the University of Illinois Extension forestry team.

Explore the health benefits urban trees provide, the importance of the state’s oldest trees and how to care for them, how to design and install a firebreak for safe and effective prescribed burns, and what new invasive species are heading toward Illinois and how to manage them.

Sessions in this four-part live webinar series are free and available online from 2 to 3 p.m. CT on Wednesdays starting July 9. This program is open to forestry professionals, forest owners, land managers, and the public.

International Society of Arboriculture continuing education credits may be available. Sign up for one or all of the sessions to get the access link at go. illinois.edu/ForestryStewardship.

July 9 - Urban Trees are a Matter of Life and Death: Urban trees can have a profound effect on human health. Explore three studies linking urban trees with positive health outcomes: Women who have more trees around their home are less likely to have underweight or premature babies; Counties infested with invasive emerald ash borer have higher rates of heart and breathing related deaths; and neighborhoods that have more tree plantings also have lower rates of cardiovascular mortality. Presented by Geoffrey Donovan.

July 16 - Legacy Trees: The Significance of and How To Manage Our Forest Elders: Legacy trees are defined by many names, shapes, sizes, and stories. Explore the history, ecological and

cultural significance, and the benefits of some of the oldest trees in Illinois across both forested and urban settings. Learn how these trees can be managed to sustain the benefits they provide, and programs that support these trees. Presented by Justin Vozzo, University of Illinois Extension forestry specialist.

July 23 - Staying Inside the Lines: Best Practices for Firebreak Design: Prescribed fire is an important tool for managing healthy forests and grasslands. A well-designed and correctly installed firebreak is the first line of defense in keeping a burn safe and effective. Explore the basics of firebreak placement, installation, design tools, and techniques. Presented by Chris Evans, University of Illinois Extension forestry and research specialist.

July 30 - Emerging Invasive Species Across Illinois: Knowing what invasive species may be arriving in Illinois soon and how to respond to them can make a big difference in slowing and

preventing their spread. Learn about emerging invasive species, including some new-to-Illinois and some that are actively spreading in other parts of the Midwest. Explore their characteristics, distribution, and control techniques. Presented by Kevin Rohling, University of Illinois Extension forest management and ecology specialist.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, contact Christopher Evans at (618) 695-3383 or cwevans@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet access needs.

The Extension forestry team conducts research projects, maintains demon-

stration sites, and teaches courses at University of Illinois. They also administer the Illinois Big Tree Program and the new Citizen Big Tree Inspector initiative. The program is part of the department of natural resources and environmental sciences. Explore more about Extension forestry resources at extension.illinois.edu/Forestry.

Learn more about Illinois trees and how you can support them in the free online Forestry Stewardship Series this July from the University of Illinois Extension forestry team.

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101 LEGAL NOTICE

TAKE NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS CASE NO. 2025TX12

To: Christopher Eaton; Spouse of Christopher Eaton; State of Illinois Dept of Revenue; State of Illinois, Kwame Raoul, Attorney General; Citizens State Bank; Laura Cook, Ogle County Clerk; Persons in occupancy or actual possession of said property, unknown owners or parties claiming any right, interest or title in the described real estate: Property located at: 114 N Division Ave, Polo, IL Property Index No.

14-16-204-003 Tax Sale Certificate No.

2021-00098

This property was sold on November 2, 2022 for delinquent general taxes for the year of 2021. A Petition for Tax Deed for this property was filed on April 17, 2025. Your right to redeem the property from the sale will expire on October 15, 2025. If you fail to redeem by that date, the court may enter a judgment granting petitioner a tax deed. This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of this county in Oregon, Illinois on November 6, 2025 at 9 AM before Judge Roe via Zoom (https://www. oglecountyil.gov/departments/circuit_clerk/ zoom_links_for_court.

php; “Courtroom 302Judge Roe”), or whomever may be sitting in his or her stead.

JICTB, INC., Petitioner Angela L. Tucker, Esq. JICTB, INC. 1701 Broadmoor Dr. Ste 100 Champaign, IL 61821 No. 0602 (June 16, 23 & 30)

PUBLIC NOTICE Public Notice is hereby given that on June 10, 2025, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County Clerk’s Office setting forth the names and post office address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as: Prairie View Farm 253 S Summer Hill Rd Polo, IL 61064

Dated June 10, 2025 Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk No. 0612 (June 16, 23 and 30, 2025)

NOTICE TAX DEED NO. 2025TX20 FILED 6/9/2025 TAKE NOTICE County of OGLE Date Premises Sold November 2, 2022 Certificate No. 202100001 Sold Certificate for General No. Taxes of (year) 2021 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number N/A Warrant Number N/A Installment Number N/A THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES Property Located at 104 North Pearl Street, Baileyville, Illinois

Legal Description or Property Index No.: 0205-201-003

This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and

or

accruing

or

cial assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the county clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming. This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a Tax Deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before October 10, 2025. This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in Oregon, Illinois on October 30, 2025 at 9:00am with Judge Roe via Zoom and in Courtroom 302

You may be present at this hearing but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time. YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY

Redemption can be made at any time on or before October 10, 2025, by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Oregon, IL. For further information contact the County clerk

ADDRESS: 105 South 5th Street, Suite 104, Oregon, IL 61061

TELEPHONE: (815) 732-1110

P&N PROPERTIES, INC

Purchaser of Assignee Dated: 6/10/2025 CASE NUMBER: 2025TX20

Billy J Wheeler; Unknown Spouse of Billy J Wheeler; Fleet Mortgage Corp, n/k/a JPMorgan Chase; Occupants; Ogle County Clerk; Claimants, Judgment Creditors and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “unknown owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots” No.0613 (June 23, 30 and July 7, 2025)

NOTICE TAX DEED NO. 2025TX24 FILED 6/9/2025 TAKE NOTICE County of OGLE Date Premises Sold November 2, 2022 Certificate No. 202100145 Sold Certificate for General No. Taxes of (year) 2021 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number N/A Warrant Number N/A Installment Number N/A THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES Property Located at 3640 West Broad Street, Dixon, Illinois Legal Description or Property Index No.: 2113-157-003

This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on October 10, 2025. The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the county clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming. This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a Tax Deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before October 10, 2025.

This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in Oregon, Illinois on October 30, 2025 at 9:00am with Judge Roe via Zoom and in Courtroom 302

You may be present at this hearing but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time. YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY Redemption can be made at any time on or before October 10, 2025, by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Oregon, IL. For further information contact the County clerk

ADDRESS: 105 South 5th Street, Suite 104, Oregon, IL 61061

TELEPHONE: (815) 732-1110 P&N PROPERTIES, INC

Purchaser of Assignee Dated: 6/10/2025 CASE NUMBER: 2025TX24 Thomas L Huggins; Unknown Spouse of Thomas L Huggins; City of Dixon; Occupants; Ogle County Clerk; Claimants, Judgment Creditors and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “unknown owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots” No: 0614 (June 23, 30 and July 7, 2025)

NOTICE TAX DEED NO. 2025TX19 FILED 6/9/2025 TAKE NOTICE County of OGLE

Date Premises Sold November 2, 2022 Certificate No. 202100220 Sold Certificate for General No. Taxes of (year) 2021 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number N/A

Warrant Number N/A

Installment Number N/A

THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES

Property Located at split part that is the West and East part of the property commonly known as 209 West Depot Street, Creston, Illinois

Legal Description or

Property Index No.: 2523-258-001

This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on October 10, 2025. The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the county clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.

This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a Tax Deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before October 10, 2025.

This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in Oregon, Illinois on October 30, 2025 at 9:00am with Judge Roe via Zoom and in Courtroom 302

You may be present at this hearing but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time.

YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY

Dated: 6/10/2025

Redemption can be made at any time on or before October 10, 2025, by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Oregon, IL. For further information contact the County clerk

ADDRESS: 105 South 5th Street, Suite 104, Oregon, IL 61061

TELEPHONE: (815) 732-1110

PEACEOFMIND

ALERT, INC

Purchaser of Assignee

Dated: 6/10/2025 CASE NUMBER: 2025TX19 Margaret L Sanderson; Financial Freedom Senior Funding Corporation, n/k/a Financial Freedom Acquisition, LLC; Village of Creston; Occupants; Ogle County Clerk; Claimants, Judgment Creditors and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “unknown owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots” No: 0615 (June 23, 30 and July 7, 2025)

NOTICE TAX DEED NO. 2025TX23 FILED 6/9/2025 TAKE NOTICE County of OGLE Date Premises Sold November 2, 2022 Certificate No. 202100143 Sold Certificate for General No. Taxes of (year) 2021 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number N/A Warrant Number N/A Installment Number N/A THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES

Property Located at 7911 South Main Street, Dixon, Illinois

Legal Description or Property Index No.: 2113-129-001

This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on October 10, 2025. The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the county clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.

This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a Tax Deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before October 10, 2025. This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in Oregon, Illinois on October 30, 2025 at 9:00am with Judge Roe via Zoom and in Courtroom 302 You may be present at this hearing but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time. YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY

Redemption can be made at any time on or before October 10, 2025, by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Oregon, IL. For further information contact the County clerk

ADDRESS: 105 South 5th Street, Suite 104, Oregon, IL 61061

TELEPHONE: (815) 732-1110

P&N PROPERTIES, INC

Purchaser of Assignee

CASE NUMBER:

2025TX23

Mary G Avey, the Sole Heir of Beverly A Diehl, deceased; City of Dixon; Occupants; Ogle County Clerk; Claimants, Judgment Creditors and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “unknown owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots” No: 0616

(June 23, 30 and July 7, 2025)

NOTICE TAX DEED NO. 2025TX16 FILED 6/9/2025

TAKE NOTICE

County of OGLE

Date Premises Sold

November 2, 2022

Certificate No. 202100013

Sold Certificate for General No. Taxes of (year) 2021 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number N/A

Warrant Number N/A

Installment Number N/A

THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES

Property Located at 50 acre rectangular shaped parcel lying on the North side of West Town Line Road in Section 34 of Maryland Township, Ogle County, Illinois

Legal Description or Property Index No.: 0234-300-010

This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on October 10, 2025.

The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the county clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.

This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a Tax Deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before October 10, 2025.

This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in Oregon, Illinois on October 30, 2025 at 9:00am with Judge Roe via Zoom and in Courtroom 302

You may be present at this hearing but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time.

YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY

Redemption can be made at any time on or before October 10, 2025, by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Oregon, IL. For further information contact the County clerk

ADDRESS: 105 South 5th Street, Suite 104, Oregon, IL 61061

TELEPHONE: (815) 732-1110

PEACEOFMIND

ALERT, INC

Purchaser of Assignee

Dated: 6/10/2025

CASE NUMBER: 2025TX16

David D Weegens; Terri Weegens; Margaret Weegens; Ogle County Clerk; Claimants, Judgment Creditors and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “unknown owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots” No. 0617

(June 23, 30 and July 7,

2025)

NOTICE TAX DEED NO. 2025TX17 FILED 6/9/2025

TAKE NOTICE County of OGLE Date Premises Sold November 2, 2022 Certificate No. 202100020 Sold Certificate for General No. Taxes of (year) 2021 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number N/A

Warrant Number N/A

Installment Number N/A THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES

Property Located at 201 West 2 nd Street, Leaf River, Illinois Legal Description or Property Index No.: 0336-130-005

This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on October 10, 2025. The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the county clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming. This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a Tax Deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before October 10, 2025.

This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in Oregon, Illinois on October 30, 2025 at 9:00am with Judge Roe via Zoom and in Courtroom 302

You may be present at this hearing but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time. YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY Redemption can be made at any time on or before October 10, 2025, by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Oregon, IL. For further information contact the County clerk

ADDRESS: 105 South 5th Street, Suite 104, Oregon, IL 61061

TELEPHONE: (815) 732-1110

PEACEOFMIND

ALERT, INC

Purchaser of Assignee

Dated: 6/10/2025 CASE NUMBER: 2025TX17 Buddy List; Misti Fant; Donald E Whaley; Village of Leaf River; Occupants; Ogle County Clerk; Claimants, Judgment Creditors and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “unknown owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots” No. 0618 (June 23, 30 and July 7, 2025)

STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE BYRON BANK, an Illinois State Bank, Plaintiff, v. EDWARD C. BAXTER; THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, ILLINOIS PUBLIC AID FOR DEPARTMENT OF HEALTHCARE AND FAMILY SERVICES; UNKNOWN OWNERS; UNKNOWN TENANTS; UNKNOWN SPOUS-

ES; UNKNOWN HEIRS; and NONRECORD CLAIMAINTS, Defendants. Case No. 25 FC 29 NOTICE TO UNKNOWN OWNERS, UNKNOWN TENANTS, UNKNOWN SPOUSES, UNKNOWN HEIRS, AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS FOR PUBLICATION

The requisite Affidavit having been duly filed in my office, NOTICE is hereby given you, THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, ILLINOIS PUBLIC AID FOR DEPARTMENT OF HEALTHCARE AND FAMILY SERVICES; UNKNOWN OWNERS; UNKNOWN TENANTS; UNKNOWN SPOUSES; UNKNOWN HEIRS; and NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants in the above-entitled suit, that the said suit has been commenced in the Circuit Court of Ogle County, by the said Plaintiff, against you and other Defendants, praying for the foreclosure of a certain mortgage concerning the premises described as follows, to-wit: Lot Twenty-four (24) as designated upon the Plat No. 2 of Fawn Ridge Subdivision, being a Subdivision of part of the Northwest Quarter (1/4) of Section 30, Township 25 North, Range 11 East of the Fourth Principal Meridian, City of Byron, Ogle County, the Plat of which Subdivision was recorded July 8, 2004 in Plat File D on Page 68 as Document No. 0408108 in the Recorder’s Office in Ogle County, Illinois; situated in the Township of Byron, the County of Ogle and State of Illinois. COMMON ADDRESS: 1217 Joanne Terrace, Byron, IL 61010 PIN: 05-30-154-007 And for other relief; that Summons was duly issued out of the said Court against you as provided by law, and that the suit is now pending. NOW, THEREFORE, unless you, the said above-named Defendants, file your Answer to the Complaint of said suit or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Ogle County, Ogle County Courthouse in the City of Oregon, Illinois, on or before the 15th day of July, 2025, default may be entered in accordance with the prayer of said Complaint.

KIMBERLY A. STAHL, Clerk of the Circuit Court, 15th Judicial Circuit, Ogle County, Illinois

PREPARED BY: Elliot M. Fraker (6349015) efraker@aghllaw.com Matthew M. Hevrin (6256083) mhevrin@aghllaw.com

ALLEN GALLUZZO

HEVRIN LEAKE, LLC 839 N. Perryville Road, Suite 200 Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 265-6464 No. 0620 (June 16, 23 and 30, 2025)

NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE SALE

R.L. Gaul Properties LLC, A storage facility located at 201-211 S. Jefferson Ave., Polo IL. 61064 intends to hold an auction of a storage unit listed below to enforced its privilege against the following party at the facility for default of payment of rent, Unit #17 Ron & Lori Smith 403 Sherman Ave., Dixon, IL. 61021. The sale will occur as an auction July 1, 2025 at 4:30 PM. No. 0621 (June 23 and 30, 2025)

PUBLIC NOTICE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS STATE OF ILLINOIS ) ) SS COUNTY OF OGLE ) Public Notice is hereby given to all persons in Marion Township that a Public Hearing will be held Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 6:00 P.M. at

Ogle County Courthouse,

County Board Room #317, 105 S.

St., Oregon, IL, to

the request

May 9, 2025 of Constellation Energy

LLC,

L. Schuster, Elrod Fried-

325 North LaSalle St., Ste. 450, Chicago, IL for an Amendment to the Zoning District to rezone from AG-1 Agricultural District to I-1 Industrial District on the property described as follows and owned by the petitioner(s): Part of the East Half (E1/2) of Section 18 Marion Township 24 North, Range 11 East of the 4th P.M., Ogle County, IL, 184.98 acres, more or less Property Identification Number(s) 10-18-400010; 10-18-200-003; 10-18-400-001; 10-18400-014; and 10-18400-015 Common Location: 4000 block of N. Black Walnut Rd. All persons in attendance at the hearing shall have an opportunity to be heard. Any person who also wishes to appear as an interested party with the right to cross-examine others at the hearing must complete and file an appearance form with the Ogle County Planning & Zoning Department no later than five (5) business days before the date of the hearing. The application for this map amendment is on file with detailed description and available for examination at the Planning & Zoning Department, 911 Pines Rd., Oregon, Illinois or at the following URL: http://www.oglecounty. org/departments/planning_and_zoning/zoning_board_of_appeals. php. ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS RANDY OCKEN, Chairman Dated at Oregon, Illinois this 9th day of May 2025 No. 0629 (June 30, 2025) PUBLIC NOTICE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CONTINUED STATE OF ILLINOIS ) ) SS COUNTY OF OGLE ) Public Notice is hereby given to all persons in Scott Township and Marion Township that a continued Public Hearing will be held Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 6:00 P.M. at the Old Ogle County Courthouse, Third Floor County Board Room #317, 105 S. Fifth St., Oregon, IL, to consider the request filed January 15, 2025 of USS Stillman Creek Solar, LLC, 100 N. 6th St., Ste. 410B, Minneapolis, MN for a Special Use Permit in the AG-1 Agricultural District to allow the construction and operation of a 5MWac Community Solar Facility on the property described as follows and being leased by the petitioner: Part of the G.L. 2 of Northwest Quarter (NW1/4) Fractional Section 18 Scott Township 42 North, Range 1 East of the 3rd P.M.; and part of the Southwest Quarter (SW1/4) Fractional Section 36 Marion Township 25N, R11E of the 4th P.M., Ogle County, IL, 35.0 acres, more or less of

the 89.56 acre site

Property Identification

Number: Part of 11-18100-003 and Part of 0536-300-006 Common

203 HELP WANTED

Location: 7000 block of N. Stillman Rd.

All persons in attendance at the hearing shall have an opportunity to be heard. Any person who also wishes to appear as an interested party with the right to cross-examine others at the hearing must complete and file an appearance form with the Ogle County Planning & Zoning Department no later than five (5) business days before the date of the hearing. The application for this special use is on file with detailed description and available for examination at the Planning & Zoning Department, 911 Pines Rd., Oregon, Illinois or at the following URL: http://www.oglecounty. org/departments/planning_and_zoning/zoning_board_of_appeals. php. ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

RANDY OCKEN, Chairman Dated at Oregon, Illinois this 15th day of January 2025 No. 0630 (June 30, 2025)

101 LEGAL NOTICE

This publication does not knowingly accept fraudulent or deceptive advertising. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all ads, especially those asking for money in advance.

105 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

“This publication does not knowingly accept fraudulent or deceptive advertising. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all ads, especially those asking for money in advance.”

113 FINANCIAL

NOTICE Advance Fee Loans or Credit Offers Companies that do business by phone can’t ask you to pay for credit before you get it. For more information, call toll-free 1-877-FTCHELP. A public service message from your hometown newspaper and the Federal Trade Commission.

119 ANNOUNCEMENTS

“This publication does not knowingly accept fraudulent or deceptive advertising. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all ads, especially those asking for money in advance.”

201 DOMESTIC/

301 ANTIQUES

ANTIQUES WANTED: I pay cash for antiques; furniture, glassware, pottery & crocks, tin & iron toys, sterling silver, decoys. If it’s antique, I’m interested in looking! Call 815-562-2928 or email dickharms@ hotmail.com

307 MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

BUNDLED Newspaper -$3 per Bundle. Available MondayThursday 815-5624171 (9AM-3PM) Rochelle News Leader.

SPLIT Firewood For Sale. Contact 779251-0254

405 HOUSES FOR SALE

ALL REAL ESTATE advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preferences, limitation or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

501 APARTMENTS FOR RENT

305 GARAGE/ESTATE SALES

Bill Murray ESTATE SALE

Antiques, Collectibles, Art & More!

Join us for a fantastic estate sale with a wide variety of quality items.

WHEN: Saturday, July 12th, 2025

TIME: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

WHERE: St. Mary’s Learning Center, 881 Mongan Dr, Oregon, IL 61061

Discover treasures big and small, including:

• Art - paintings, prints, oil on canvas, stereolithography and photos by various artists including Tom Heflin, Terry Redlin, Henry Parker and local artists

• Collectables - wood carvings, sculptures, pottery, vases, bookends, vintage items

• Antique bottle collection, crocks, model cars, wood/

brass music box

• Antique Warmink Wuba mantel clock, vintage Maelzel Metronome

• 22k gold plated Bavarian porcelain tea set, unique chess sets and pieces

• 39” Wooden ship wheel, brass ship bell, US flags

• Handmade items by Maui artists: blown glass, artwork, ukulele, pottery, wood carvings

• Several Indian/Southwest themed items

• Cookware, Corelle dishes, flatware, large cutting boards, cookbooks • Outdoor Kitchler lights, new 52” ceiling fan, cement statues, bird bath

• Antique table, oak plant stands, full size bed frame,rolling work table, portable lightbox

• Bronze Blackhawk Indian statue, bronze gecko, 2 large cast iron pumpkins

• Willow Tree nativity set, Christmas village collection, Santa pictures by RJ Reynolds

• Noritake china “Silk Ribbons”, Lenox dinnerware “Winter Greetings”

• Native American Indian Flute with stand & music books, piano sheet music

• Victrola, victorian table, Kenmore cabinet sewing machine Handmade marionette puppets

• Sugar Ray Leonard punching bag w/leather gloves, horseshoe set

• Tempur-Pedic Office Chairs & Paper Shredder, Medline walker

• Celestron NexStar 102SLT Computerized Telescope And much more!

Perfect for collectors, artists, and bargain hunters. Don’t miss out! Payment: We accept Cash and Venmo. (Sorry, no checks or credit cards). Please note: All items sold as-is. No early birds, please.

July 11th, 12th & 13th

In alley behind 210 Main St., Leaf River, IL

Multi Seasonal Garage Sale!! Spring, Fall and Christmas items Tiara glassware and Lenox china. Household items, furniture, books, puzzles, crafts and many more items.

PIA#27/06302025

LET FREEDOM RING FESTIVAL

2025 Let Freedom Ring festival in Mt. Morris set for July 2-5

MT. MORRIS —

During the Let Freedom Ring festival the campus square comes alive with music, family activities, a patriotic program at the bandshell, food and fun –and of course, ringing the Freedom Bell of Illinois at 1 p.m. (2 p.m. ET), simultaneously with ringing the famous Liberty Bell in Philadelphia.

On July 4 the streets of Mt. Morris are lined with spectators for the Let Freedom Ring parade. And thousands come from miles around for spectacular fireworks.

It’s a multiple-day event for all ages with activities like the Little Miss and Mister Firecracker contest, Kid’s Parade, craft and food vendors, silent auction and bake sale, classic car show, Mt. Morris Jamboree concert, and our own Kable Concert Band — just to name a few fun activities. Local businesses join in the celebrations. And, our July 4th breakfasts are legendary: Fill ‘er up at the Fireman’s Breakfast at the fire station or the Fly-in /Drive-in Breakfast at the Ogle County Airport on the east edge of Mt. Morris.

There’s something new and different every year!

See the schedule of events at right.

History

The Freedom Bell, on the campus square, was declared the official Freedom Bell of Illinois by the state legislature in 1971 and is rung every July 4th at 2 p.m. Eastern Time (ET), simultaneously with “ringing” (actually, gently tapping) the famous Liberty Bell in Philadelphia.

Clarence “Sandy”

Sandstrom was the 1963 Chairman of the 4th of July Publicity Committee when he read an article by Eric Hatch and Eric Sloan in “The Week Magazine” about bell ringing. They proposed a national simultaneous ringing of bells at 2:00 p.m. ET on July 4th to remind Americans everywhere to pause and remember our hard-fought battle for independence. The article stated that bell ringing was a pre-civil war custom they wanted to revive.

Sandy thought it was an excellent idea and convinced the Mt. Morris 4th of July Committee to adopt the idea.

The committee found a small bell, 16 inches in diameter, for $75, and the local VFW Club donated the funds. The bell was mounted on a cedar post and placed behind the Veterans Memorial Fountain at the northeast corner of the Village campus. The Memorial Fountain was built in 1926 by the local American Legion Post with stones from across the nation and around the world.

A dedication was planned for April 30, 1963, and Sandy, hearing that actor Ronald Reagan would be in nearby Dixon, Illinois, his hometown, arranged to have Reagan join the other dignitaries in the dedication ceremony. Reagan was among the first bell ringers, when he and other guests at the dedication pulled the bell cord and rang the little Freedom Bell. Reagan borrowed an overcoat from Charles Finch on that cold April day, and that coat was later donated to the Mt. Morris Museum.

In June 1963, U. S. Senate Concurrent Resolution 25 passed in Congress. It read as follows:

“Whereas the tolling of the Liberty Bell of Independence Hall, Philadelphia at 2:00 O’clock in the afternoon of the fourth day of July, 1776, proclaimed the signing of the Declaration of Independence; and whereas the adoption of this historic document marked the birth of our country as a free and independent nation; and whereas it is fitting that the anniversary of this great event should be observed in each year at the same moment throughout the United States: now, therefore, be it resolved, that the Congress hereby (1) declares that the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence should be observed each year by the ringing of bells throughout the United States at the hour of 2 o’clock, eastern daylight time, in the afternoon of the fourth day of July, or at such other time in the afternoon as may be determined by local authority, and (2) calls upon civic and other leaders to take steps to encourage public participation in such observance.”

On July 4th, 1963, after much promoting by Sandy, 20 states participated by ringing bells 13 times at 2:00 p.m. ET, in unison with the Liberty Bell of Independence Hall, Philadelphia and the Freedom Bell in Mt. Morris.

The next year, 1964, Sandy arranged to broadcast the sound of the little Freedom Bell over the loudspeakers in the Illinois Pavilion at the New York World’s Fair. Soon

of course, ringing the Freedom Bell of Illinois at 1 p.m. (2 p.m. ET), simultaneously with ringing the famous Liberty Bell in Philadelphia.

Wednesday, July 2

5:00 pm – 5:30 pm Genesis Dance Company (Wesley St)

6:15 pm – 6:30 pm Golden Court Contest (Bandshell)

6:45 pm – 7:00 pm Royal Court Coronation (Bandshell) 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Regional Showcase of Area Artists (Sandstone Gallery)

7:30 pm

– 1:00 pm Patrotic Program (Bandshell)

- 3:00 pm Food Vendors (Bandshell)

pm Parade (Parade Route) 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Food Vendors

During the Let Freedom Ring festival the campus square comes alive with music, family activities, a patriotic program at the bandshell, food and fun – and

(COURTESY PHOTO)

LET FREEDOM RING FESTIVAL

From page 11

In 1965, William Wrigley, then owner of the Chicago Cubs, agreed to broadcast the sound of Mt. Morris’ little Freedom Bell over the sound system at Wrigley Field before the baseball game on July 4th. When Sandy went to Chicago to arrange the event, he was introduced to Jack Brickhouse, the voice of the Cubs on WGN television. Brickhouse arranged for the bell ringing to be heard over WGN, allowing millions of people to be involved.

In 1966, with bell ringing firmly established, the Mt. Morris July 4th Let Freedom Ring Committee thought the Village should have a larger bell. The committee found a bell that was over 100 years old and had been at the bottom of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. It had fallen through

the ice while being moved across the lake and was recovered 40 years later.

The Committee purchased the large bell from a farmer in Johnsburg, Illinois for $500.

The tower for the second bell was designed by Mt. Morris resident and graphic designer Eric Mann, and the tower itself was erected by Village volunteers Marv Miller, “Babe” Tracy, and Gene McGee. The yoke was made by Howard Fox, Sinnissippi Forest, from slippery elm, the same material from which the yoke of the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is made, also of the same dimensions.

The large bell was sand blasted by E. D. Etnyre & Company in nearby Oregon to clean it. Eric Hatch and Eric Slone, who wrote the article that first inspired Sandy Sandstrom, were invited

to Mt. Morris on July 4th, 1966, to dedicate the new large bell.

The Freedom Bell stands on the historic college campus square in downtown Mt. Morris on South Wesley Avenue, next to the Warren G. Reckmeyer Bandshell.

Sandy was tireless in his efforts to promote the Mt. Morris Freedom Bell. In the fall of 1971, the large Freedom Bell was proclaimed the official Freedom Bell for the state of Illinois by an act of the Illinois legislature.

On July 4th, 1972, Governor Richard Ogilvie was the speaker for the bell ringing ceremony. He presented the Village with a state flag and a bronze plaque for the Freedom Bell site. The plaque contained the following inscription:

“On this, the occasion of the first official ringing of the Freedom Bell at Mt. Morris, let this message be heard by all Americans: Let us be one nation dedicated as never before to the realization of the promise of freedom for all.”

The following year, Sandy arranged to have the Mt. Morris bell ringing ceremony connected by phone with the ceremony at the Independence Hall in Philadelphia. By phone, the Mt. Morris celebrants listened to the ringing of a special bell in Philadelphia. On the 13th strike, the Mt. Morris bell was rung. This tradition continued for 15 years.

In 1976, special activities were planned for the Bicentennial Celebration. The Mt. Morris Freedom Bell rang on July 3rd to help commemorate the unveiling of the Statue of Liberty and the relighting of the Statue of

the state legislature in 1971 and is

Time (ET), simultaneously with “ringing” (actually,

Liberty Bell in Philadelphia.

Liberty torch. President Reagan called for bells to ring nationwide when he re-lit the torch at 9:53 p.m. ET.

In a special proclamation designating July 3rd “Let Freedom Ring Day” President Reagan said, “What could be more fitting than to celebrate this moment with the joyful clamor of bells in every city, village and hamlet throughout our land; let every American take it as a summons to re-dedication to liberty.”

At Sandy’s suggestion, the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration made bell ringing official for the 1976-1986 events. The American Bicentennial of the Constitution also made the

ringing of bells official for that celebration in 1987. The Mt. Morris Freedom Bell was rung 52 times in 1980 during the crisis in Iran, once for each hostage. In 1984 the Mt. Morris Freedom Bell was rung on the television show, “Good Morning America.”

Sandy was a generous philanthropist, had a gregarious, outgoing personality, and was seldom seen without a cigar. As the bell ringing idea grew in popularity, and bell ringing became a national event on July 4th, Sandy became well known as “Mr. Fourth of July.” He received commendations and awards from several patriotic organizations, several presidents and

every state legislature in the union. He was a guest in the White House in 1984, and was featured in the July 7th, 1986, issue of “People Magazine.”

Although Sandy died in 1992, his devotion to patriotism lives on in our annual Let Freedom Ring festival, and the Freedom Bell of Illinois. A plaque on the base of the bell honors him with this inscription: “Through the ringing of bells on the fourth of July, Sandy reminded Americans everywhere of their precious heritage of freedom…” As Sandy often said, “Remember, if you will, that it all started at the Memorial Fountain in Mt. Morris, Illinois.”

Mt. Morris

The Freedom Bell, on the campus square, was declared the official Freedom Bell of Illinois by

rung every July 4th at 2 p.m. Eastern

gently tapping) the famous

(COURTESY PHOTO)