OCL_Ogle County Life_072125

Batting cage turf installed The Oregon Park District recently installed new batting cage turf at Park West. Section B

ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER VOLUME 37, ISSUE 18

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MONDAY JULY 21, 2025

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Fellows retires after 28 years ‘It felt good to know that you helped provide an activity that was rewarding for the client’

BY JEFF HELFRICH MANAGING EDITOR

Ogle County Fair coming soon The 2025 Ogle County Fair is scheduled for July 31 through Aug. 3 in Oregon.

Pages 8-9

Mott to speak at Oregon Depot Michael Mott will speak at the Oregon Depot on July 26. Page 14

OREGON — On Wednesday, July 9, a retirement party and tribute were held for longtime Pegasus Special Riders Board President Donna Fellows.

She recently retired after 28 years of service.

Fellows founded the current iteration of Pegasus Special Riders, after Pegasus Special Equestrians of Northwestern Illinois had existed in previous years before it ceased operations and was revived under a new name. The nonprofit, located at 6668 S. Carthage Road near Oregon, has been operating since 1997. It’s a

(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)

On Tuesday, July 8, a Legislative Session Recap Town Hall was hosted by State Sen. Li Arellano Jr. (R-Dixon) and State Rep. Bradley Fritts (R-Dixon) at Rochelle’s City Hall.

(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)

On Wednesday, July 9, a retirement party and tribute were held for longtime Pegasus Special Riders Board President Donna Fellows.

therapeutic riding program for children and adults with special needs. Volunteers perform all of the required duties, such as working with the riders, caring for the hors-

es and facilities, raising funds and providing the necessary administrative support.

See FELLOWS page 2

State legislators Fritts, Arellano Jr. host town hall in Rochelle alongside local leadership

BY JEFF HELFRICH MANAGING EDITOR

ROCHELLE — On Tuesday, July 8, a Legislative Session Recap Town Hall was hosted by State Sen. Li Arellano Jr. (R-Dixon) and State Rep. Bradley

Fritts (R-Dixon) at Rochelle’s City Hall. The elected officials that represent the area provided updates, insights and answers on recent state happenings.

See TOWN HALL page 3

OBITUARIES • Marilyn Louise Gecan • Teresa Boyden Johnson • Janet M. Brown • Wendy S. (Pendergrass) Salveson See page 4

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OCL A JULY 21.indd 1

7/17/25 12:37 PM

SECTION A • PAGE 2 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

North Carolina man identified as victim of skydiving accident in Rochelle Ogle County Sheriff: Mid-air collision resulted in uncontrolled descent on Wednesday

BY JEFF HELFRICH MANAGING EDITOR

ROCHELLE — A North Carolina man has been identified as the victim of a Wednesday, July 9 skydiving accident near Chicagoland Skydiving Center and the Rochelle Municipal Airport, a release from Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle said the afternoon of Friday, July 11.

The victim was identified as Brandon M. Schmidt, 40, of North Topsail Beach, North Carolina.

At approximately 6:50 p.m. the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office responded to a

report of a skydiving incident involving an uncontrolled descent in the area of 8887 S. Illinois Route 251 in Rochelle. Upon arrival, deputies located Schmidt in the parking lot of the facility and found he had suffered significant injuries. He was transported to Rochelle Community Hospital by the Rochelle Fire Department, where he was later pronounced deceased.

A second skydiver involved in the incident was located at Koritz Field at the Rochelle Municipal Airport and was also transported to RCH with minor injuries, a July 9

release said.

Preliminary investigation indicates the two skydivers collided mid-air, resulting in canopy collapses for both individuals.

Reserve parachutes were deployed, but the collision led to the uncontrolled descent of Schmidt, VanVickle’s July 9 release said.

The area of 8887 S. Illinois Route 251 is located across the road from the Rochelle Municipal Airport and Chicagoland Skydiving Center.

The incident remains under investigation by the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office in coordination with federal authorities.

(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)

A North Carolina man has been identified as the victim of a Wednesday, July 9 skydiving accident near Chicagoland Skydiving Center and the Rochelle Municipal Airport.

Public comments heard on solar siting, steer tailing County Board: Special use permit for cremation unit on Twombly Road approved

BY JEFF HELFRICH MANAGING EDITOR

OREGON — At its monthly meeting Tuesday, the Ogle County Board heard public comments from residents against solar farm siting in the county, and steer tailing at rodeos that take place just south of Rochelle that have drawn criticism.

Sam Miller of Stillman

Valley said he’s been against a solar development near his home for the past seven years and talked about the impact of solar developments on the property values of nearby homes.

“The closer the solar development is to the house, the more it impacts value,” Miller said. “In June, Virginia Tech came out with a study and their results were that homes within a half

mile of a solar installation saw a 7.2 percent decrease in value. Then they found if the solar field could be seen from the home, it was a 7.9 percent decrease. It’s a lot of money.”

The board has considered a number of special use permits for solar facilities in recent years. At its June meeting, the board denied a special use permit for a solar facility in Mt. Morris Town-

ship by a vote of 17-4 with residents citing the property’s value as farmland.

Back in December, the board narrowly approved a special use permit for a solar project between Forreston and Polo after previously denying that project due to it being on productive farmland. That petitioner changed its siting to less productive farmland and filed a lawsuit against

Ogle County for the denial, stemming from a recent new state law that set statewide standards for wind and solar farm siting and took away previous local controls such as at the county level.

Tuesday also saw public comments against solar siting from Tom Smith of White Rock Township.

“Right over in Byron we have two nuclear units making all kinds of green

energy,” Smith said. “We don’t need anything else.

We don’t need any solar anywhere in Ogle County.

We need to keep that ground from being covered up and we need to keep it producing. We have more than enough revenue to make this county work great without solar.”

See COUNTY BOARD page 5

FELLOWS: Pegasus Special Riders Board President retires after 28 years From page 1 “I knew about horses and I had always been a volunteer somewhere,” Fellows said. “My dad had Polio and I had been exposed to all of the things that Pegasus does. We just made the best of it, from rented barns to giving lessons. Then we had an opportunity to buy this land.

Everything you see on this land is from donations. We do better with grants now.

It was a good 28 years. I’m ready to hang up my hat.

I stayed involved for so long because I love it. My husband and I spend winters in Florida and we’ll be there more now. This place is my first love.”

The Pegasus Special Riders facility was filled on July 9 with current and former volunteers and board members, users of PSR services, and Fellows’ friends and family members.

Fellows said she’s enjoyed seeing PSR grow and change over 28 years.

She was up to the challenge of managing the finances of the nonprofit, which only saw revenues of small fees charged to clients. Pegasus had to keep up with obligations like feed and hay and saw the support of the commu-

OCL A JULY 21.indd 2

nity and volunteers to continue providing service.

“Seeing the people that supported this place was wonderful,” Fellows said.

“The community is great to us. We had farmers that would donate hay to us. It was very rewarding to see everybody pitch in any way they could. We have a couple volunteers here today that were our original volunteers here.

That’s always nice, to see people coming back.”

Fellows’ biggest challenge in her 28 years was damage to the PSR facilities from two separate windstorms in 2022. The first storm severely damaged the main arena building and the second storm damaged the facility’s loafing shed and storage building. The nonprofit’s offerings were halted and limited by the damage and COVID-19 pandemic for multiple years.

In 2023, PSR held a grand reopening event and officially began offering its services again after a year of work by its board and volunteers.

“Volunteers are our life’s blood,” Fellows said.

“Because without them, we wouldn’t be able to do this. And they keep coming back. Because I think they get as much out of it as the

(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)

The Pegasus Special Riders facility was filled on July 9 with current and former volunteers and board members, users of PSR services, and Fellows’ friends and family members.

kids and young adults do.

It’s very rewarding.”

Over 28 years, Fellows has seen firsthand the positive impacts that equine therapy has had on Pegasus’ clients from around the area.

“It felt good to know that you helped provide an activity that was rewarding for the clients,” Fellows

said. “I liked seeing the interaction with the horses. Our horses are very in tune to what the child or young adult needs. The community coming out and supporting us was great. I often said we were the best-kept secret in Ogle County. A lot of people don’t know about this place and what it’s all

about.”

Fellows believes the area is lucky to have PSR, so local residents in need don’t have to travel to Rockford or further for equine therapy. But she believes Pegasus is also lucky to be where it is, because of the volunteer support it sees. Fellows’ replacement will be long-

time area resident Stacy Seaworth.

“I’m very happy to have Stacy step into the board president role,” Fellows said. “She will do great.

I’m glad to see all of these people from over the years come back here today.

They mean a lot to me and they mean a lot to the program. It’s been great.”

7/17/25 12:41 PM

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION A • PAGE 3

(PHOTOS BY JEFF HELFRICH)

Rochelle Mayor John Bearrows made remarks to open and close the event and welcomed Fritts and Arellano, both of whom he’s worked with in the past on matters relating to the city such as economic development, infrastructure projects and the city’s municipally-owned electric utility.

TOWN HALL: Local officials recap spring legislative session in Springfield, field questions

From page 1 Rochelle Mayor John Bearrows made remarks to open and close the event and welcomed Fritts and Arellano, both of whom he’s worked with in the past on matters relating to the city such as economic development, infrastructure projects and the city’s municipally-owned electric utility.

Arellano Jr. (37th District) and Fritts (74th District) started the event by explaining the districts and areas they represent, which recently were changed.

Arellano’s district stretches down to Peoria. Both elected officials raised concerns July 8 about gerrymandering and its effect on representation and legislation.

“Nobody from Dixon should be representing anyone from Peoria,” Arellano Jr. said. “Our state constitution says districts have to be compact and keep communities of interest together. They do not do that.”

An overview of the state’s spring legislative session was presented.

6,745 bills were filed, with 416 passing. 59 bills passed that were introduced by Republicans. 216 bills passed before the final week of session, 155 were

passed in the final week and 96 passed on the very last day.

The state’s fiscal year 2026 budget includes $55.3 billion in revenues and $55.1 billion in expenditures. The budget is the state’s biggest ever by $2 billion.

“As you see how our revenues have shot up over the years, you should think we should be able to get out of debt,” Arellano Jr. said. “Except you see the expenditures going up right along with it. We have the number one tax burden in the country. There is enough revenue to get us out of debt and still fund services. But when you continue to add so many new services, you can’t do it.”

Arellano Jr. and Fritts covered what they called “hot topics” from the recent legislative session, including tax increases to sports betting wagers, tobacco and vape products.

“The point is the state is incredibly taxed across the board,” Fritts said.

“The revenues are there but the governor wants to try to fill in the gap and give everybody as much of the pie as he can. So they increase taxes by a billion dollars. It’s unbelievable.”

Both officials commented on current issues

that are being seen at the state level with electrical power. Power costs have risen drastically due to a shift towards renewables and a decrease in power supply and an increase in demand. The increase in power costs does not affect Rochelle Municipal Utilities customers due to the locally-owned utility having power purchase contracts locked in.

Arellano Jr. and Fritts supported legislation in the spring such as a Young Farmers Commission, Tiny Homes for Homeless Veterans, Healthcare Volunteer Licensing, a Human Trafficking bill, a Career & Technical Education Opportunity bill, and an Anesthesia Service Coverage Bill.

Arellano Jr. serves on the state’s pensions committee and raised concerns on the state’s mismanagement of its pensions of state employees over the years and not paying enough into them. He believes that’s a reason why less money is available for state programs and he said his committee will work on solutions such as changing retirement age restrictions to combat the deficit.

The elected officials discussed the state’s Local Government Distributive Funds (LGDF), which are

state revenues earmarked for local governments.

The LGDF was set at 6.47 percent in 2024 and has not changed since.

Arellano Jr. and Fritts said that number, and unfunded state mandates have an indirect impact on local residents’ property taxes.

When local governments like the City of Rochelle receive less money from the state or are required to implement programs by the state with no new funding, they have to face increasing property taxes or cutting another service.

“The issue with that is unfunded mandates and local governments no longer getting the 10 percent in LCDF funds that they were

once promised,” Fritts said.

The event closed with the local officials fielding questions from people in attendance including legislative impacts on farming, local government control, pensions and immigration.

Arellano Jr. said his top three legislative priorities going forward are ethics, financial reform and whatever the top current priority in his district is.

Fritts and Arellano Jr. thanked those in attendance and reminded them that their offices offer assistance with state agencies.

“We really appreciate you making the effort to give us input and understand what’s going on,” Fritts said. “It’s very easy

to sit at home and watch the news and Monday morning quarterback the decisions we should’ve made at 4 a.m. I appreciate you taking the time to learn why we made the decisions we made.”

Bearrows made remarks to close the event and thanked Fritts and Arellano Jr. for their help with issues that affect the City of Rochelle and its residents.

“In city and state government, it’s all about relationships,” Bearrows said. “These two gentlemen have been amazing to work with and that relationship is how we send our words here locally to Springfield so they can take them to the powers that be.”

Stiles Sr. to bring fashion workshop to Rock Valley College ROCKFORD — This September, internationally recognized Master Tailor and Designer Eric W. Stiles Sr. brings his renowned workshops and classes to Rock Valley College. Mr. Stiles is renting a classroom at the college and hosting classes that offer expert, hands-on instruction in sewing, tailoring, pattern making, and garment construction for teens and adults of all skill levels,

OCL A JULY 21.indd 3

from absolute beginners to advanced sewers—providing a rare opportunity to learn directly from one of the industry’s most seasoned professionals.

The series opens with affordable, 2.5hour oneday trial workshops in sewing and pattern making—available in both afternoon and evening sessions—ideal for newcomers or those refining their skills, with all materials provided (attendees

supply their own machine and pedal for the sewing session). Participants may then continue into full, threeweek courses—also offered afternoons and evenings—where instruction builds week by week and Mr. Stiles delivers handson training in the professional techniques used by top designers worldwide (machines and pedals required).

With over 40 years in the fashion indus-

try—having worked with the world’s most prestigious houses, including Brioni, Giorgio Armani, Polo Ralph Lauren and Tom Ford—and as founder of EWS Fashion Academy established in 1995, where he has taught online classes through 62 colleges across 26 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces. Mr. Stiles now has improved his inperson format, offering students a rare opportu-

nity to master sewing, tailoring, pattern drafting and garment construc-

tion as practiced by elite European and American designers.

7/17/25 12:41 PM

SECTION A • PAGE 4 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

OBITUARIES/LOCAL NEWS Marilyn Louise Gecan

OREGON — Marilyn Louise Gecan, born March 21, 1932, in Blue Island, IL to parents Theodore & Esther (Jebsen) Feddeler.

After graduating from Northern IL University, she came to the Oregon area and worked at the High School teaching Math & P.E. On December 26, 1954, she married the love of her life Stephen J. Gecan and together they spent the next 64 years together raising four children Victor, Paula, Frank, and Christopher. Marilyn was highly active in the Oregon community for many years as a member of the Oregon Public Library board and worked on the original Project Play Playground.

Marilyn was a daily face at

the Nash Recreation Center and Curves for many years. She was a talented knitter and avid reader. She was a lifelong Cubs fan and would also attend many of the Oregon High School sporting events to support her grandson Brandon and his teammates.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Stephen, children Victor, Paula, Christopher, and sister Caryle Feddeler.

Marilyn is survived and missed dearly by her loving son Frank (Michelle); grandson Brandon; and great granddaughters Kennidy, Keira & Kaia; and son-in-law Geoff Jillson.

Marilyn will be laid to rest with her husband at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery

of Oregon, IL, following a private family graveside service on Saturday, July 19, 2025. Memorial donations are established in her name and may be directed to either Serenity Hospice and Home of Oregon, IL, or Pegasus Special Riders. To leave an online condolence or plant a tree in Marilyn’s memory, please visit www. farrellhollandgale.com

years before retiring. She married W.D. Johnson on Sept. 26, 2003.

She is survived by two brothers Ronald (Nancy) Boyden of Tennessee and Jeffery Boyden of Rochelle; two daughters Corina (Donald) Little of Oregon and Julie Seyster of Polo; three grandchildren

Linda Abbott of Freeport, Breana Jeter of Polo and Justin Jeter of Dixon and six great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her father Ronald Boyden, mother Linda Boyden and husband W.D. Johnson. There will be a memorial at a later date.

Teresa Boyden Johnson

T

ERESA Boyden Johnson passed away at home on July 9, 2025 with her family by her side.

She is a loving mother, grandma and friend. She loved to play cards and go camping and fishing.

She worked for Coil Craft in Oregon, Illinois for 10

Fritts seeks 3rd term in Illinois House

DIXON — On July 14, State Rep. Bradley Fritts (R-Dixon) announced that he will seek a third term in the Illinois House of Representatives, pledging to continue his fight for fiscal sanity, responsible government, and common-sense policies for the people of the 74th District.

“Serving the people of this district has been the honor of a lifetime,” Rep. Fritts said. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, but there’s more work to do.

I’m running for reelection to make sure Springfield

stops ignoring rural Illinois and starts focusing on real solutions for the people of our state.”

First elected in 2022 as the youngest legislator ever elected to the Illinois General Assembly, Fritts has built a record focused on fiscal responsibility, supporting law enforcement, protecting family farms, and expanding opportunities for working families. In Springfield, he has advocated for balanced budgets without new taxes, meaningful ethics reforms, and policies to create jobs

across Illinois.

Fritts continued, “Being your state representative is about serving our community and ensuring our values are being heard in Springfield. I’m running for reelection because I believe we deserve honest leadership, real accountability, and someone who will fight every day to make Illinois a better place for everyone. I am honored to serve my constituents by focusing on real, bipartisan solutions, and I look forward to receiving your vote on March 17.”

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The Ogle County Life/ Rock Valley Shopper USPS (004-083) ISSN (1045-3059)

Published every Monday by Rochelle Newspapers, Inc. at 211 Hwy. 38 East, Rochelle, IL 61068-1183. Subscriptions in our service area are free on a requester basis. Periodicals Postage Rates paid at Rochelle, IL 61068. Postmaster send address changes to the Ogle County Life/ Rock Valley Shopper, P.O. Box 175, Rochelle, IL 61068-9801. The circulation department is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you have carrier delivery and your paper fails to arrive by 7 p.m. on Monday, telephone our office at 732-2156, if your paper fails to arrive by mail telephone our circulation office at 562-4171, ext. 112. For subscriptions, call the LIFE office at 815-732-2156.

OCL A JULY 21.indd 4

Janet M. Brown

BYRON — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Janet M. Brown, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend. Janet passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on July 12, 2025. Janet was a dedicated mother and woman of God who brought smiles to the faces of anyone lucky enough to know her.

Born on July 10, 1939, in Sterling, Illinois, the daughter of Clyde and Margaret (Vaile) Scott. She graduated from Newman High School in 1957.

Janet married the love of her life, Neil Brown on July 9, 1960. Together, they raised eight wonderful children: Bernadette, Mary Kay, Christopher, Ames, Scott, Neil, James, and Joshua, and also fostered many more. Janet was proud of her family and devoted her life to caring for them. Her love for her children was matched only by her dedication to her fourteen grandchildren: Katie, Corey, Tristen, Catherine, Kelli, Ebony, Stephen, Dillon, Brittany, Aerin, Alex,

Noah, Neveah and Alyx and 10 great grandchildren. She cherished every moment spent with them.

After many wonderful years in the Byron area; Janet moved to Harmony at Tucker Station in Kentucky where she continued spreading joy to the other residents. She quickly made friends with both the staff and residents always making sure to brighten their days when she could.

She was affectionately known as the Yarn Lady; and would be given yarn, since she was known for knitting hats for charity or knitting gifts for anyone who would like one.

Janet will be remembered for her kind heart and sweet smile. She believed in spreading good in the world and volunteered whenever she could. She especially enjoyed volunteering with the St. Vincent DePaul Society and helping with funeral luncheons at church. She enjoyed doing crafts and used those talents to help in the prayer shawl ministry; making sure those who were sick could be

wrapped in love.

Janet is survived by her sisters, Jane Bianchi and Mary Kay (Bill) Murphy; eight children, fourteen grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward her legacy of kindness and love. Janet was predeceased by her parents, husband, and siblings Verrell, Clyde, and Vaile.

A Christian Funeral Mass celebrating Janet’s well lived life will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Byron.

Visitation will be held beginning at 9:00 AM until time of service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the St. Vincent DePaul Society.

Rest in peace, Janet.

BYRON – Wendy S. (Pendergrass) Salveson, age 71, passed away at home on July 16, 2025 surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born on October 24, 1953 in Rockford the daughter of Paul and Nettie (Taylor) Pendergrass. She married the love of her life, Wayne Salveson on May 3, 1991. Wendy was a hard worker and worked for many years at Quality Metal in Byron. In her spare time, she enjoyed playing bingo and going shopping and going to garage sales. She had an eye for design and was an amazing interior decorator.

She adored everything to do with Christmas and spending time with her siblings. More than anything, Wendy loved her family.

She was an amazing wife, mother, and grandmother who made sure her family knew how much she loved them every day. She is preceded in death by her parents and brothers Joe, Gary, and Rick. She is survived and missed by her husband, Wayne of Byron; children, Summer (J.R.) Horwedel of Byron, Shannon Pendergrass of Byron, and Clint (Laura) Salveson of Watseka, IL; sisters, Marie Norup of Leaf River, Jane (Wayne) Hurd of Byron, Penny (Tom) Kane of Byron, and Patti (Jim) Bortoli of Byron; grandchildren, Angel (Brandon) Huddleston, Austin Horwedel, Zoe Nicolai, and Cru Nicolai; and many other family and friends she loved dearly.

A memorial visitation will be held from 1:30 to 3:30 on Tuesday July 22, 2025 at Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home in Byron. A celebration of life will be held following the visitation on Tuesday from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at the PrairieView Golf Club Pavillion, 6734 German Church Road, Byron. To leave an online condolence please visit www.farrellhollandgale.com

Wendy S. (Pendergrass) Salveson

Waugh graduates from South Dakota State

BROOKINGS, S.D. — South Dakota State University announces Lauren Renee Waugh of Stillman Valley has graduated following the spring 2025 semester.

Waugh graduated with

a graduate certificate from SDSU’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences.

Nearly 1,500 students completed all requirements for a degree and/ or certificate program.

Overall, students from 34 states and 28 nations graduated following the spring 2025 semester.

Nearly 70 students received two or more degrees or certificates from a college.

Johnson makes Millikin University Dean’s List

DECATUR — Millikin University is pleased to announce the names of the outstanding undergraduates who have been named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2025

semester.

Rayna Johnson of Stillman Valley.

Students who attempt 12 graded credits during a fall or spring semester and earn a grade point

average of 3.5 or higher earn Dean’s List honors.

Students earning a perfect 4.00 grade point average on 12 graded credits attempted earn High Dean’s List honors.

7/17/25 12:41 PM

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION A • PAGE 5

COUNTY BOARD: Special use permit approved Tuesday OSF Saint Katharine From page 2 collecting socks and Steer tailing shoes for Dixon students The board heard public DIXON – OSF Saint Katharine Foot & Ankle Center is stepping up to support local students with a sock and shoe drive as part of the Dixon Public Schools annual donation drive. The initiative, part of the center’s quarterly community service project, aims to ensure that children from preschool through 12th grade start the school year with confidence and comfort.

The center is collecting new socks and shoes of all sizes, which will be donated to Dixon Public Schools and distributed to students in need across the district.

A donation bin is located outside the OSF Saint Katharine Foot & Ankle Center (215 E. 1st St., Dixon) for community members to drop off contributions.

“Proper footwear is essential for a child’s physical development and overall well-being,” said Dr. Nathan

Mauren, podiatrist at OSF Saint Katharine. “Supportive shoes help prevent foot pain, improve posture and reduce the risk of injury, especially important for growing children who are active throughout the school day.”

Beyond the physical benefits, new shoes can also have a powerful emotional impact. Studies show that students who feel comfortable and confident in their appearance are more likely to engage in class and participate in school activities.

“Something as simple as a new pair of shoes can make a world of difference for a student,” Dr. Brandon Gumbiner added. “It’s about more than just footwear, it’s about confidence and giving every child a strong start to the school year.”

For more information, contact the OSF Saint Katharine Foot & Ankle Center at (815) 285-5801.

Illinois Forage Expo is July 30

DAVIS – Mark your calendars for Wednesday, July 30 as the Illinois Forage Expo returns to northern Illinois with a full day of equipment demos, expert insights, and interactive exhibits!

This year’s event will be co-hosted by the Don Brown Farm and the Eric Stiegler Farm, taking place at 9776 Illinois Route 75 East, Davis, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Expo is your onestop destination to learn more about forage equipment and best practices.

See the forage equipment in action—mowing, tedding, raking, baling, and

bale wrapping. Factory reps and local dealers will be on-site to answer your questions and showcase the latest innovations. Explore a wide range of forage-related products and services from leading companies in the industry. Educational Presentations from 10 to 11:30 a.m., gain valuable insights from forage experts on topics that matter to your operation.

Enjoy a day of learning, and networking—no admission charge. Food will be available for purchase on-site.

For more information, contact Don Brown at (815) 238-8372.

comments from two Ogle County residents against alleged animal abuse that takes place at rodeos at 16989 E. Ritchie Road, a property in Ogle County south of Rochelle. The board has heard comments against the rodeos at many recent meetings.

Steer tailing is the specific event at the rodeos that has drawn concerns from an animal activist group and county residents. Steer tailing is where a rider on horseback chases down a running steer, bull, or calf and grabs onto the animal’s tail; the rider then wraps the tail around his leg, slamming the animal to the ground.

On June 26, Ogle County Board Chairman Bruce Larson released a letter addressing claims of the county permitting animal cruelty. The letter stated the property has a permanent special use permit, which would require evidence to prove its conditions were violated and hearings before it can be revoked.

Larson also stated the county contacted the Illinois Department ofAgriculture’s Bureau of Animal Health and was advised they would not be getting involved due to rodeos being “very difficult to regulate.”

Larson also wrote that steer tailing is not specifically illegal under Illinois law and the Illinois Attorney General Civil Rights Bureau cautioned against acting against Mexican Rodeos due to potential unlawful discrimination.

Kelleigh Miller of Oregon responded to Larson’s letter Tuesday in the public commentary portion of the

(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)

The board approved a special use permit for the installation and operation of a cremation unit in an existing building at the Trinity Memory Gardens cemetery at 14712 E. Twombly Road in Flagg Township and near Hillcrest.

meeting.

“Our hope is that moving forward the county and its residents can work together to end animal abuse and ensure that the laws meant to protect animals are upheld,” Miller said. “Plenty of evidence of illegal activity has been provided and this has been going on for four years. To our knowledge, no action has been taken.

The county is essentially condoning animal cruelty through inaction.”

Showing Animals Respect and Kindness (SHARK), an animal activist group, has asked the board in the past to revoke the special use permit for the venue to host events and has asked the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office and Ogle County State’s Attorney’s Office to charge and prosecute those committing what they believe to be animal abuse at the Mexican-style rodeos.

In May the Ogle County Board tabled a resolution in potential support of State Senate Bill 0045, which seeks to ban steer tailing. The resolution was tabled due to a desire to get feedback from the state’s attorney and look into the venue’s special use permit.

“Most rodeo events are regular cowboy jobs,” Melo-

dee Hoffman of Mt. Morris said during public commentary. “Steer tailing is not a cowboy job. It is just cruelty for the sake of entertainment.

It feels like the county from the top down is turning a blind eye to this.”

Special use

The board approved a special use permit for the installation and operation of a cremation unit in an existing building at the Trinity Memory Gardens cemetery at 14712 E. Twombly Road in Flagg Township and near Hillcrest. The board voted 22-1 in favor of the permit.

The special use permit was requested by Andrew Beverage of Beverage Family Funeral Homes, which has locations in Rochelle, Sandwich and Ashton. All property owners abutting the property were notified by mailing notice and the Ogle County Zoning Board ofAppeals conducted a public hearing on June 26. No members of the public spoke in opposition or support of the special use petition.

Salary

The board unanimously approved a resolution appropriating $154,172 in motor fuel tax funds for the payment of the Ogle Coun-

ty engineer’s salary. The county participates in a state County Engineer’s Salary Reimbursement Program.

With the resolution, the county authorized the Department of Transportation to transfer $77,086 of Federal Surface Transportation Program funds allocated to the DOT in return for an equal amount of state funds.

Fees

The board unanimously approved an ordinance increasing certain fees in the Ogle County Clerk’s Office. The new fee schedule includes marriage or civil union applications costing $60 total, certified copies of birth and marriage or civil union costing $26 for the first copy and $6 for each additional copy purchased at the same time, certified death records costing $32 for the first copy and $10 for each additional copy purchased at the same time, $110 for processing tax redemptions including issuing tax sale certificates and sealing certificates of redemption, and $20 for indexing and filing certificates of business assumed names.

The increased fees will be effective Aug. 1, 2025. The fees had not been increased since around 2011.

FSB Shannon Polo Lake Carroll welcomes back Breanna Cisketti

POLO — We’re excited to announce that Breanna Cisketti will be rejoining our team as an Agriculture and Commercial Lender beginning June 30! Breanna began her career with FSB in 2024 as a summer intern in our Polo location.

In this role, Breanna

will focus on Agriculture & Commercial Lending, Business Development, Customer Outreach, and strengthening our Ag & Commercial community relationships. She will report directly to Jeff Norton, senior vice president, Agriculture & Commercial

FIRST FRIDAY 6:30-11

Lending. Breanna will begin her training in Shannon and upon completion she will have a focus in the Polo community.

Breanna brings with her a strong foundation in Agribusiness, having recently completed her Bachelor of Science degree

in Agribusiness, Communications and Marketing emphasis from Platteville, Wisconsin. Her passion for agriculture and community engagement shines through her recent accomplishments as a Social Media Ambassador for both the American Farm Bureau

Oregon VFW Post 8739

SERVING VETERANS & COMMUNITY

and the Wisconsin Farm Bureau. Along with her recent accomplishment, Breanna has completed her Illinois State FFA Degree, participated in Farm to Fork Sustainable Entrepreneurship study abroad program in Spain and Portugal, and was

the Leadership Chair for Sigma Alpha Beta Delta.

We look forward to the knowledge, energy, and fresh perspective she will bring to the team.

Please join us in giving her a warm welcome as she begins her journey with us!

PUBLIC IS INVITED TO PARTICIPATE:

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OCL A JULY 21.indd 5

1310 W. Washington St. 61061 815-732-6851

Check our Facebook page for details

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7/17/25 12:41 PM

SECTION A • PAGE 6 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

VIEWPOINT

Published every Monday Jeff Helfrich, Managing Editor

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

MOMENTS IN TIME * On Aug. 4, 2012, in London, Oscar Pistorius of South Africa became the first amputee to compete at the Olympic Games. He finished second out of five runners in the opening heat and went on to the semifinals, where he finished eighth out of eight runners. * On Aug. 5, 1951, 38-year-old Canadian daredevil William “Red” Hill Jr. attempted to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel made of 13 rubber innertubes, canvas webbing and fish netting that he dubbed “the Thing.” It broke apart under the high water pressure two hours after he set out, but his badly injured body was not recovered until the

next morning. * On Aug. 6, 1975, The New York Times printed a front-page obituary for Agatha Christie’s Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirot -- quite the honor for a fictional character! Christie had announced her decision to dispose of him in her next book; indeed, as the Times noted, “The news of his death, given

by Dame Agatha, was not unexpected. Word that he was near death reached here last May.” * On Aug. 9, 1995, legendary Grateful Dead guitarist Jerry Garcia died of a heart attack in a California residential drug-treatment facility at age 53.

More work to be done for increased trade

I

LLINOIS Farm Bu- the temporary progress reau has long cham- on U.S.-China negotipioned new and di- ations and discussions verse market opportunities with the U.K., much more while fighting to eliminate work is needed to ensure trade barriers that hinder long-term, fair access for the agricultural economy American farmers. This of Illinois and the nation. is especially true in areas Illinois farmers rely on such as non-science-based access to foreign markets to phytosanitary requiresell their products — from ments that serve as non-tarcorn, soybeans, ethanol, iff trade barriers. beef, pork and more. With From my farm and in continued pressure on farm my travels across Illinois, income, trade remains a I see how essential trade top priority. In response to is — our roads, railways sweeping global tariffs — and waterways move not many of which have since just our products but our been paused or rolled back entire economy forward.

— and reciprocal We cannot afford actions abroad, we to let trade policy quickly intensified stagnate. our efforts to boost Our world is global market acincreasingly comcess and stressed petitive and comthe importance of plex. We need trade with all detrade to solidify Brian agriculture’s stracision makers.

Duncan tegic position in That is why Illinois Farm Bureau it. The path ahead continues to push requires commitfor signed, long-term trade ment and consistency. deals. We and county Farm Our farmers deserve Bureau leaders have held trade policies that reflect regular conversations with the immense value they President Donald Trump’s bring to the nation and administration, including the world. It’s time for USDA Secretary Brooke leaders to resolve lingerRollins, as well as with ing disputes and elimIllinois’ congressional inate contentious trade delegation. I have per- barriers. We’re ready to sonally made multiple compete — just give us trips to Washington, D.C., a fair shot. this spring and summer Brian Duncan farms in to underscore how crit- Ogle County and serves ical it is for our farmers as Illinois Farm Bureau to maintain and expand president. This story was trade relationships and distributed through a coeliminate existing trade operative project between barriers through support Illinois Farm Bureau and of bilateral, regional and the Illinois Press Assomulti-lateral free trade ciation. For more food agreements. and farming news, visit While we welcomed FarmWeekNow.com.

OCL A JULY 21.indd 6

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

Letter: Response to Larson letter

D

EAR editor, We are writing in response to the June 26 letter released by Ogle County Board Chairman Bruce Larson and published by the Ogle County Life and Rochelle News-Leader (“Ogle County releases letter addressing claims of permitting animal cruelty”). As concerned residents, we feel compelled to correct misinformation, present the facts, and help government leaders and community members better understand the troubling reality of animal abuse taking place in our county—abuse that continues with no accountability.

Special use permits and ongoing abuse The Chairman’s letter claims that the Rochelle property at 16989 E. Ritchie Road holds a permanent special use permit that “cannot be removed… without due process.” Yet for the last four years, residents and advocacy groups have submitted overwhelming documentation of animal abuse at this site to the Ogle County Sheriff, State’s Attorney, Animal Control, and the County Board. Despite this, the county has failed to take meaningful action.

Permanent special use permits create serious risks by eliminating regular review or compliance checks.

Without accountability, the county opens itself up to recurring violations, including: Repeated animal cruelty; uninspected animal transport across state lines; illegal building construction; and safety, noise, and traffic disruptions.

We urge the County Board to reconsider its policy and implement a structured, renewable permit process. In particular, we ask the Board to strengthen the language in all special use permits for animal events to explicitly state that violations of the Illinois Humane Care for Animals Act (510 ILCS 70), the Illinois Equine Infectious Anemia Act (510 ILCS 65), or any local animal welfare ordinance may result in immediate permit revocation.

Misrepresentation of community concern The chairman’s letter misleadingly states that Ogle County reached out

to the Illinois Department of Agriculture in response to “outside entities making claims of animal abuse.”

This falsely implies that only outsiders are raising concerns. In truth, many Ogle County residents have contacted officials, spoken at public meetings, and submitted letters demanding an end to animal abuse at these events. Their voices deserve acknowledgment.

The Chairman’s letter also states “steer tailing” is not specifically illegal under Illinois law. That is not accurate. The Illinois Humane Care for Animals Act protects all living creatures (except man), domestic or wild, from cruelty: Cruel treatment (Sec. 3.01): Prohibits tormenting, beating, starving, overworking, cruelly treating, or otherwise abusing animals.

Aggravated cruelty (Sec. 3.02): Prohibits intentionally causing serious injury or death to a companion animal (including equines).

Animal torture (Sec. 3.03): Prohibits intentional infliction of extreme pain and prolonged suffering or agony of an animal.

The intent of steer tailing—where animals are chased, violently grabbed by their tails, slammed to the ground, whipped, and often suffer broken limbs, degloving, or death—is inherently abusive and falls squarely under these provisions. Horses used in these events have also sustained broken legs, spines, and other injuries. Failing to act on these violations is not a matter of legal gray area; it is a matter of will.

Misuse of an outdated legal opinion The Chairman’s reliance on a November 2023 letter from the Illinois Attorney General’s (AG) Civil Rights Bureau is flawed. That letter was issued to Boone County, not Ogle County. Public records reveal no evidence that Ogle County officials have contacted the AG’s office to discuss the realities of steer tailing in Rochelle. Rather than informing theAG of the violent and unlawful nature of these events, the county has chosen to hide behind an outdated and misapplied document.

The events taking place

in Rochelle are unsanctioned, unlicensed, and misrepresented as cultural celebrations. In truth, they violate both Mexican and American rodeo standards.

The Federación Mexicana de Charrería, the governing body of traditional Mexican rodeos in the United States and Mexico, enforces strict animal welfare rules. Licensed rodeos/charreadas do not involve illegal steer tailing as practiced in Rochelle. What’s happening here is not part of Mexican cultural heritage—it is abuse masquerading as tradition.

The Illinois AG Civil Rights Letter has been challenged A December 2023 legal response from a California law firm has called for the retraction of the AG’s letter, citing its “ill-informed” claims and the absence of racial discrimination in the enforcement of animal cruelty laws. We urge the County Board, State’s Attorney, and Sheriff’s Office to review that letter and consider its implications.

Misunderstanding the role of the department of agriculture The Chairman’s letter cites the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s claim that “it is difficult to regulate rodeos,” but the Department’s own website states that it does not license or enforce rodeo-related activity. Enforcement falls to the Sheriff’s Office and State’s Attorney for Ogle County.

The Department makes clear that: All animals must receive humane care and treatment; downed animals may not be sent to or used in events; adequate shelter, veterinary care, and water are mandatory; The Act applies to livestock and companion animals alike; and violations are criminal offenses, not regulatory issues.

Steers and horses are transported from Iowa to Illinois for the events in Rochelle and are subject to inspection and health certification requirements under Illinois law. That too is a legal concern that must be addressed by the county.

Misdirected criticism of concerned citizens The Chairman’s letter states “Perhaps those people

wanting Ogle County to do something… should channel their efforts” by lobbying state legislators or submitting witness slips for SB0045 (Ban Dragging Bovine by Tail). This is misleading.

Steer tailing is already prosecutable under existing Illinois law.

There is no active committee hearing for SB0045 at this time, so citizens cannot submit a witness slip.

Local residents have already contacted their state and county officials. We are not sitting idle—we are asking Ogle County to do its job.

Suggesting that only “outside” animal rights activists care about this issue is dismissive and inaccurate.

Many Ogle County residents have voiced strong opposition to animal cruelty and have asked county officials to work together to put an end to this abuse.

Action speaks louder than words The chairman’s letter claims “Ogle County does not condone animal cruelty.”

Unfortunately, the county’s inaction tells a different story. By refusing to enforce the law, ignoring community concerns, and relying on outdated and irrelevant legal interpretations, Ogle County is enabling ongoing abuse.

Granting permanent permits, failing to investigate ongoing animal abuse, and disregarding veterinary and interstate transport requirements is not passive oversight—it is willful neglect.

We urge our elected leaders to re-examine this issue with the seriousness it deserves. Uphold the laws already on the books. Listen to the residents they serve.

Protect the animals who cannot speak for themselves.

We stand ready to meet with Chairman Larson and other county board members to discuss this matter further, share evidence, and work collaboratively to end animal abuse in Ogle County.

Ogle County LIFE letters' policy

Kelleigh Miller, Oregon Melodee Hoffman, Mt. Morris Andrew Miller, Oregon And 13 other concerned residents of Ogle County who preferred to remain anonymous

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.

7/17/25 12:41 PM

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

VIEWPOINT

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION A • PAGE 7 Published every Monday Jeff Helfrich, Managing Editor

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

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

Letter: Having children: Better to be wealthy

D

EAR editor, “[Vice President] JD Vance: ‘Our people aren’t having enough children to replace themselves. That should bother us.’ … Vance … has suggested ideas such as allowing parents to vote on behalf of their children or following the example of Hungary’s Viktor Orbán of giving low-interest loans to married couples with children and tax exemptions to women who have four children or more.” (APNews, Aug. 15, 2024) “A new poll finds that relatively few U.S. adults see this as a priority or share the White House’s concerns. Instead, Americans are more likely to want the government to focus on improving health outcomes for pregnant women and the high cost of childcare.”

(APNews, July 8, 2025) “At 18.6 per 100,000 live births, the U.S. has a mater-

nal mortality rate far higher than other high-income nations. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that 80% of maternal deaths in the U.S. are preventable. …At least a quarter of hospitals in seven states closed their obstetric services between 2010 and 2022, according to a new study in the journal Health Affairs. … Rural states saw the most profound losses. … .. Hospital leaders and experts have warned that Congress’ Medicaid cuts could have a ripple effect, leading to many hospitals no longer able to afford their labor and delivery units.”

(Stateline, July 11, 2025) “Hospital officials in Illinois say they will have to make some difficult decisions in the next few years that could involve laying off staff, cutting back services and even closing some facilities entirely.

“That’s the expected

result of federal funding cuts built into the recently passed domestic policy bill that President Donald Trump signed into law July 4, a law that will cut federal spending on Medicaid by more than $1 trillion over the next 10 years.

“A.J. Wilhelmi, CEO of the Illinois Health and Hospital Association said in an interview with Capitol News Illinois that the financial pressures will fall heaviest on hospitals that serve rural areas, where a larger share of the population is covered by Medicaid. “’The hospitals in these communities are already on the brink, based on some of the increases in labor, drug and supply costs coming out of COVID, a continuation of claim denials by payers and relatively flat reimbursement rates,’ Wilhelmi said. “So, all of

that is creating significant pressures. And when you add these Medicaid cuts to an already challenging situation, we know that there are several hospitals that close because of these changes.’”

(Capitol News Illinois, July 10, 2025) KSB Hospital, Dixon, was recently sold. “When the organizations [KSB, OSF] first disclosed they were exploring a deal, Schreiner [KSB president & CEO] cited the financial headwinds for the rural hospital, which reflects the difficulties facing other rural providers.” (Chief Healthcare Executive, 26 Sept. 26, 2024) Often mothers need to work, to get money, needing to leave their children until they are free. “U.S. families spend between 8.9% and 16.0% of their median income on full-day care for just one child, with annual

prices ranging from $6,552 to $15,600 in 2022, the most recent year for which data are available. Even part-day care for school-aged children (e.g., before and after school care) comprises 8.1% to 9.4% of median family income: From $5,943 up to $9,211 for just one child.

To put this into perspective, the median cost of a year’s worth of rent was $15,216 in 2022.” (US Dept Labor, 19 Nov. ‘24) “Average cost of childcare in Illinois is: $13,802 per year on infant care, $10,3772 per year for a fouryear-old [for one child].” (Illinois Cares for Kids, date?)

“The Trump administration is reportedly considering different policy proposals aimed at increasing the birth rate, including a $5,000 “baby bonus”, a “motherhood medal” for women with six or more children, a commitment to reserve 30% of Fulbright scholarships for

applicants who are married or have children, and government-funded menstrual education to teach women and girls when they are best able to get pregnant.

“April 1, Trump eliminated the federal department in charge of tracking IVF progress across the US. The six researchers that made up the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Assisted Reproductive Technology Surveillance team were part of the Trump administration’s mass layoffs across the Department of Health and Human Services.” (Population Connection,April 2025) Recent federal legislation includes tax credits for childcare. Reactions are mixed, with some claiming that overall, this legislation will worsen situation for women who need childcare most.

(USA Today, July 12, 2025)

Lately, I’ve been thinking about how pizza is a universal food. I’ve been able to eat pizza everywhere I’ve traveled to—maybe because it is so comforting that pizza is available everywhere.

The reason for this is because after about 10 days in Japan, my whole family was craving pizza.

Don’t get me wrong, Japanese food was fabulous, and we did not have a bad meal during our trip. But we simply wanted pizza.

We found a New Yorkstyle pizzeria. It was full of Americans who, like us, wanted a taste of home, of the comfortable.

It should come as no surprise to know that my

favorite pizza was in Italy.

We stayed in a small B&B in Praiano on the Amalfi Coast. After a full day of sightseeing, we didn’t want to leave the hotel, so our host suggested that we order from their local pizzeria. He said that it was pretty good. “Pretty good” does not even begin to describe how good it was.

It was the perfect balance of crust, sauce, cheese, and toppings. We also ordered a fried pizza. It was so light, it didn’t seem fried. The pizza still tasted very good cold the next day.

Of course, pizza is another experience in Italy.

You can go to any tavola caldarestaurant, pick any of the pizzas on display,

they heat it up, and you in the world. I grew up have a quick bite to eat. It is near an Italian neighbora unique Italian experience, hood called Bexiga, and and you can even try differ- we always ordered pizza ent toppings on your pizza. from Esperanza. They Some of my favorites in- were famous for their caclude eggplant and labresa(sausage) tuna. Yes, I know it pizza. I remember sounds weird when their crust being you’re probably almost bready. It debating whether was amazing. pineapple belongs Kitty-corner to on pizza or not. my sister’s house, But in Italy, they Silene there is a very good put a lot of differWalters pizzeria. I always ent toppings on insist on having their pizzas—and a catupiry pizza it works out. (creamy cheese), and my Being from São Paulo, sister likes a Portuguese Brazil gave me a lot of style (Portuguese sausage, opportunities to try au- eggs, onions, olives). It is thentic Italian pizza. My always so good. We have city is home to one of the even taken it to go and eaten largest Italian populations it at the airport.

But one of my favorite pizzas was in Rio de Janeiro, which is not known for its pizzas. We found this small restaurant in Santa Teresa. The pizza was good, with a crispy crust, the right amount of cheese (not too much), and sauce (also not too much). But what made this pizza exceptional was the sauces they had available. They had a homemade beet ketchup (sounds weird, but it was a little bitey) and hot honey. These sauces on top of the pizzas (which also had arugula) were just out of this world.

In Seville, Spain, we walked a few blocks to get pizza because all the reviews raved about this place. When we got there,

it seemed like an almost industrial-looking area, and the restaurant was also industrial looking. But they sold pizzas by the slice, and they had some ready. So we each got a slice. It was a glorious experience. The reviews did not lie. It was worth leaving the old part of town for.

You don’t have to travel far to get good pizza. I think the best pizzas are the ones you have at home with your family and friends. All my pizza memories are special because I shared them with family and friends. They are the ones that made it special. Next time you order pizza, maybe try something new and enjoy your loved ones.

also used for livestock feed, fuel, and countless everyday products. When you drive through rural Illinois and see endless fields of green, you’re witnessing a vital part of our economy at work.

But agriculture here isn’t only about crops.

Livestock, especially hogs and cattle, play a significant role too. Animal farming and grain production are deeply interconnected.

Livestock are fed with locally grown grain, and in return, they help fertilize the soil. It’s a sustainable cycle perfected by generations of Illinois farmers.

Beyond the fields, agriculture supports over a million jobs in Illinois,

encompassing a range of a considerable challenge industries, including food when it comes to estate or processing, equipment “death” taxes. manufacturing, transporWhen a farm is passed tation, and logistics. It’s down after a death in the the backbone of family, Illinois’ our state’s econoestate tax applies my, particularly in to land appraised at regions like Northits current market west Illinois. value, regardless W h a t ’s o f of whether the ten overlooked, family intends to though, is that sell. With Illinois’ Andrew exemption of just more than 95% Chesney of Illinois farms $4 million, which are family-owned. is far below the These farms are usually federal exemption of over described as “land-rich but $13 million, many families cash-poor,” meaning that are forced to sell land or while they hold significant equipment to cover the tax value in land and equip- bill. That not only threatens ment, they don’t necessar- the survival of individual ily have large amounts of farms but also undermines liquid assets. This creates the next generation of

farmers.

I am currently a co-sponsor of Senate Bill 1688, which aims to protect family-owned farms by reforming the state’s estate tax laws. Illinois Democrats deliberately blocked this bill during the most recent legislative session. Despite having the resources to provide meaningful relief for farmers, Democrats chose to channel budget funds elsewhere. They funneled money toward a $40 million sports complex in Speaker of the House Chris Welch’s home district and earmarked more than $250 million for special projects in Democrat-held districts.

That money could have gone a long way toward

preserving Illinois’ family farms for future generations.

As you walk the fairgrounds this summer watching livestock shows, sampling local produce, or cheering at the tractor pulls, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the people behind it all.

Farming is more than a job in Illinois. It’s a way of life, passed down through generations. We must do everything possible to ensure that the next generation of farmers can maintain Illinois’ standing as a top agricultural state in the nation and the world.

A n d re w C h e s n e y (R-Freeport) is the Illinois state senator for the 45th District.

Silene Walters: The Best Pizza

Henry Tideman, Oregon

Celebrating agriculture and farmers during county fair season

I

T’S county fair season in Illinois! These fairs allow our state’s most significant industry to take center stage. From livestock shows and 4-H competitions to tractor pulls and homemade pies, county fairs are more than just fun community events.

They’re a celebration of Illinois agriculture and the hardworking families who make it all possible.

Farming isn’t just a tradition in Illinois. It’s an economic powerhouse.

Thanks to our rich soil, flat land, and favorable climate, Illinois ranks among the top states in the nation for corn and soybean production. These crops don’t just feed people. They’re

OCL A JULY 21.indd 7

7/17/25 12:41 PM

SECTION A • PAGE 8 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

OGLE COUNTY FAIR

(COURTESY PHOTOS)

The first Ogle County Fair was held in October of 1853 on the lawn of the Ogle County Court House. In the early years, it was held at several places and on one occasion, in Byron.

2025 Ogle County Fair scheduled for July 30-Aug. 3

OREGON — The first Ogle County Fair was held in October of 1853 on the lawn of the Ogle County Court House. In the early years, it was held at several places and on one occasion, in Byron.

In 1856 a group of citizens purchased 10 acres of land in the north section of Oregon along Illinois Route #2. An additional 10 acres was purchased in 1858 followed by the acquisition of 6 acres from Mr. E.S. Potter in 1901.

Ten more acres were later purchased from the estate of James H. Cartwright.

The grandstand was constructed in 1925 followed by the horse barn in 1927.

The fair encompassed approximately 40 acres by 1968.

Moving forward to more current times the Ogle County Fair decided to discontinue operation and the last fair at the fairgrounds on the north edge of Oregon was in 1991. The city of Rockford invented a festival called “On the Waterfront” and the attendance had dropped extremely and was no longer viable. Since the Ogle County Fairground was privately owned it was put up for sale. Twenty-three acres was sold to Grant and Janice Landis of Oregon and the remainder to the Oregon Park District. The

Ogle County Fair needed to find a new home.

Since the fairgrounds were used for the Ogle County 4-H show each year, a group of 4-H parents and concerned citizens was formed to find a new fairgrounds. This was a daunting task but was achieved in 1993. There was a minimal fair held by the 4-H in 1992 at St. Mary Learning Center located West of Oregon, just off Illinois Route #64.

With the help of the Ogle County Farm Bureau, 20 acres of land was purchased from the Estate of Marian and Homer St. Clair in April 1993. This property became the home

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Roper Show

The Rhinestone Roper Show is a death-defying interactive Wild West Show that has entertained and thrilled audiences across the country for over 20 years. Dan and Yvonne Mink are expert performers in the classic Wild West skills of trick roping, bullwhip cracking, knife throwing, gun spinning and fast draw shooting. Dan has 10 World Championship Titles and the show has received multiple awards.

Featured in the show are stunts by amazing trick horses Gypsy Rio and

Ginger Mesa. You may have seen them make the Quarter Finals on “America’s Got Talent” with their breath-taking “Wheel of Death” knife throwing routine.

Dog Show

John and Nikki of Ready Go Dog Show are bringing entertainment to new heights, LITERALLY, with the biggest, big air dog show on the planet!

They are the owners and performers, traveling the country with their talented pack of 15 pups.

See OGLE COUNTY FAIR page 9

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of the Current Ogle County Fair. Since the buildings on the old fairground were not in the best of shape they were donated to the New Ogle County Fair and were razed and moved by a large group of volunteers to the new site. In early 1993 a fair board was created, and the new organization was chartered as a 501-C-3 Not for Profit Organization.

It was determined very quickly that the 20-acre purchase would not be large enough to provide for the needs of the fairgrounds.

The Ogle County Farm Bureau then purchased the remaining 18.3 acres in May of 1994. This parcel was quickly turned into the

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MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION A • PAGE 9

OGLE COUNTY FAIR THE

COUNTY OGLE FAIR

Daily

Ready Go Dog Show The Rhinestone Roper Chainsaw Artist Carving Antique Tractor Parade

Wednesday, July 30

4-H & Jr. Animals & Egg Class Check In 4-H Cloverbud Judging, Party & Graduation 4-H & Jr. Swine Weigh-In Gate Entrance Open Exhibit Building Open 4-H Bucket Calf Clinic 4-H & Jr. Poultry Showmanship 4-H & Jr. Beef Weigh-In Vendor Village 4-H Children’s Farm 4-H Fashion Revue Queen Contests Carnival Rides Open Ilini Stock & Tractor Pulls

Thursday, July 31

Gate Entrance Open 4-H & Dairy Goat Milk Production 4-H Horses on Grounds 4-H Rabbit Show 4-H Horse Show 4-H Swine Show Exhibit Building Open 4-H & Jr. Dairy Show 4-H & Jr. Goat & Sheep Weigh-in 4-H Children’s Farm 4-H Beef Show 4-H Sheep Show 4-H State Fair Orientation Vendor Village Carnival Rides Open 4-H Bucket Calf Check-In 4-H Bucket Calf Judging Illini Truck & Tractor Pulls EJ Kane 4-H & Dair Goat Milk-Out

Friday, Aug. 1

Gate Entrance Open 4-H Llama/Alpaca Check-In Jr. Swine Show 4-H Goat Show Exhibit Building Open 4-H Llama/Alpaca Show Barbershop Quartet 4-H & Jr. Poultry Show 4-H Children’s Farm Carnial Rides Open Magic of Brian Holt Vendor Village 4-H Dodgeball Tournament T&A Bucking Bulls (pit pass available) Just 4 Fun Band

Saturday, Aug. 2

Gate Entrance Open Jr. Show Horses on Grounds Jr. Horse Show Jr. Sheep Show Jr. Beef Show Jr. Rabbit Show Exhibit Building Open 4-H Children’s Farm Kiddie Pedal Pull (register 9:45am) Vendor Village Carnival Rides Open T.J. Wells 4-H Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction Pork Chop Dinner Magic of Brian Holt Show Chainsaw Carving Auction Demolition Derby (pit pass available) 4-H Master Showmanship Contest Rout 38 Band

Sunday, Aug. 3

Gate Entrance Open Church Service Jr. Goat Show Benefit Open Horse Show Exhibit Building Open Carnival Rides Open 4-H Children’s Farm Vendor Village Exhibit Building & Animal Check Out Exhibit Building & Animal Check Out Exhibit Building Closed Exhibit Building

OCL A JULY 21.indd 9

Free Carnival

Various Times Various Times Various Times 4:00pm

All Barns 12pm – 3pm Exhibit Building 2pm Building A (swine barn) 3pm-6pm 3pm-10pm Exhibit Building 4pm-9pm Building C (beef barn) 5pm Building B (poultry barn) 5pm Building A (swine barn) 5pm-8pm North of Exhibit Building 4pm-9pm Next to Lions’ Shelter 5pm-9pm Ogle Co. Stage 5pm-5:30pm Ogle County Stage 5pm Midway 6pm-10pm Grandstand 6:30pm

Truck & Pulls Tractor

Rodeo

7am-10pm Building D (sheep barn) 7:30am 7:30am Building A (rabbit barn) 8am Horse Arena 8:30am Building B (swine barn) 8am Exhibit Building 9am-9pm Building C (beef barn) 1pm Building D (sheep/goat barn)3pm-4pm Next to Lions’ Shelter 3pm-9pm Building C (beef barn) 4pm Building D (sheep barn) 5pm Exhibit Building 5pm North of Exhibit Building 4pm-9pm Midway 5pm-10pm Building C (beef barn) 5:30pm-6pm Building C (beef barn) 6:30pm approx.

Grandstand 6:30pm Ogle County Stage 7:30pm-9:30pm Building D (goat barn) 7:30pm

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7am-10pm Horse Arena 8:30am Building A (swine barn) 9am Building D (goat barn) 9am Exhibit Building 9am-9pm Horse Arena 9:30am Ogle County Stage 1pm-1:45pm Building B (poultry barn) 2pm Next to Lions’ Shelter 3pm-9pm Midway 3pm-10pm Around Grounds 4pm-8pm North of Exhibit Building 4pm-9pm Building C (beef barn) 6:30pm Grandstand 7pm Ogle County Stage 7:30pm10:30pm

Free Music Free Shows

7am-10pm Horse Arena 7:30am Horse Arena 8:30am Building D (sheep barn) 8:30am Building C (beef barn) 9am Building B (rabbit barn) 9am Exhibit Building 9am-9pm Next to Lions’ Shelter 9am-9pm Lions Shelter 10am North of Exhibit Building 12pm-9pm Midway 12pm-10pm Ogle County Stage 2pm-4pm Beef Barn 3pm Near Lions Shelter 3pm-7:30pm Ogle County Stage 4pm-5pm Beef Arena 6:30pm Grandstand 6:30pm Building C, D, A 7pm Ogle County Stage 7:30pm-10:30pm

7am-4pm Exhibit Building 7:30am Building D (goat barn) 9am Horse Arena 9:30am Exhibit Building 11am-1pm Midway 11am-4pm Next to Lions’ Shelter 12pm-4pm North of Exhibit Building 12pm-4pm Last name begins A-J 1pm Last name begins K-Z 3pm 5pm

Animal Barns Other Exhibits

Food

ial C om m e r c Vendors

(COURTESY PHOTOS)

Among the activities at the Ogle County Fair are the Roper Show and the Exhibit Building Open/Jr. Show

From page 8 Their goal is to bring smiles and joy to people of all ages and leave them with memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready Go Dog Show is an action packed, high energy show that leaves you wanting more! They showcase their energetic rescue pups with high flying frisbee tricks, dogs diving into a pool while snagging a frisbee mid air, and the exciting 7 foot high, Big Air Box Jump! In their 25 minute show, audiences will see everything from the popular Belgian Malinois breed, to a 9lb chihuahua mix and everything in between! Crowds have the opportunity to win a souvenir with volunteer participation, or get your own after the show while you meet one of the 4 legged stars!

Exhibit Building Open/Jr. Show

The Open Show is for all ages. Juniors planning to show in the Open Show must have a separate exhibit that is not entered in the Junior show or 4-H show.

All exhibits must be checked in by the designated time frame. No exhibits will be accepted after the end of check-in. Projects must have tags attached; picking up tags does not qualify as having your exhibit checked in. Exhibits must be physically there and entered by a Superintendent.

Exhibits must be picked up at Check-Out times. Ogle County FairAssociation and Committee Members are not responsible for exhibits not picked up after checkout times. 4. All open show exhibit entries are limited to one per individual per class.

More than one exhibit per

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individual per class will not be accepted.

All exhibit work must have been made within one current year of showing at the Ogle County Fair and come whole and complete.

One current year is from August 2024 through July 2025. All exhibits must be checked-in with all parts/ pieces. Pieces of exhibit(s) not brought at time of checkin will not be accepted as part of the exhibit.

Open Show exhibits cannot be dual-enrolled as a 4-H and Junior Show exhibit.

Previously premium awarded Open Show exhibits may not be re-entered. Previously premium awarded Junior Show exhibits may be entered and awarded a Page 67 premium for Open Show.

No professional work is allowed. A professional is defined as one whom: a. maintains a business. b. advertises for a business. c. derives more than 50% of their income from the business.

The Open Show Committee and the Fair Association are not responsible for any damage, and/or missing or misplaced pieces. Protection of exhibit(s) is the sole responsibility of the exhibitor. Covers and/or casings must be clear, and the exhibit viewable.

PROJECTS MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE EXHIBIT BUILDING ACCORDING TO RULES.

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SECTION A • PAGE 10 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

A tradition of compassion: OSF HealthCare celebrates Founders’ Day

DIXON – OSF HealthCare commemorated Founders’ Day on July 16 by honoring the pioneering spirit of The Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis, who established the health care ministry on the same date in 1877.

This year’s celebration is especially significant as OSF HealthCare Saint Katharine Medical Center officially joined the OSF HealthCare Ministry in January of this year.

The story of OSF HealthCare began 148 years ago when Mother M. Frances Krasse and a small group of Franciscan Sisters arrived in Peoria from Germany.

With little more than faith and determination, they opened St. Francis Hospital in a rented house with just 12 beds.

Their Mission was clear: to care for the sick, the poor, and the vulnerable with the greatest care and love.

Despite limited resources and language barriers, the Sisters’ commitment to compassionate service quickly earned the trust of the community. Their work laid the foundation for

(COURTESY PHOTO)

OSF HealthCare commemorated Founders’ Day on July 16 by honoring the pioneering spirit of The Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis, who established the health care ministry on the same date in 1877.

what would become one of the most respected Catholic health care systems in the Midwest.

Today, OSF HealthCare includes 17 hospitals, more than 170

care sites and a growing digital health presence, all rooted in the values of its founding Sisters.

The addition of OSF Saint Katharine marks a new chapter in that legacy.

Located in Dixon, the hospital’s integration into the OSF system enhances access to high-quality, Mission-driven care in the Sauk Valley.

“As we celebrate

Founders’ Day and honor the legacy of the Sisters, we are reminded of the sacred promise made in 1877-to serve all with the greatest care and love,” said Jackie Kernan, pres-

ident of Saint Katharine.

“That Mission lives on through the dedication of our Mission Partners, who embody the spirit of the Sisters in every act of care and service.”

Wisconsin-Platteville announces Spring 2025 Dean’s List honorees P L AT T E V I L L E , Wis. -The University of Wisconsin-Platteville announces its Dean’s List,

honoring those full-time students who earned a grade-point average of 3.75 and above in the

spring 2025 semester.

Students from this area on the Dean’s List include: Byron: Carter Conder-

man, Taryn Dolan, Jacob Kann, Cooper Sholes.

Chana: Rylee Jackson.

Davis Junction: Caleb

Fleming, Ben Klaren.

Forreston: Rylee Broshous, Jenna Greenfield.

Monroe Center: Anna

Hagemann. Mount Morris: Brady Davis. Oregon: Lily Gillingham. Polo: Breanna Cisketti

Byron Bank announces Stuff-A-Bus campaign to support local students donations of essential school supplies to benefit students in the Byron School District, Meridian School District, and District 100 in Belvidere.

Community members and area businesses can

drop off new school supplies at any Byron Bank location.

“I think it’s extraordinary how our business community surrounds and supports our district and our students. When

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right materials ready for the classroom and their success here at Meridian 223.”

The items that are most needed are backpacks, crayons, dry erase markers, spiral notebooks, Kleenex, hand sanitizer and Clorox wipes. All supplies donated will be delivered directly to each school district and distributed by school staff.

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“You asked, and we’re here to help – because every child deserves to start the school year prepared and confident,” said Samantha Ciaccio, marketing officer at Byron Bank.

“We’re proud to support local students, families, and teachers by helping provide the supplies the need to succeed.”

The Stuff-A-Bus campaign is part of Byron Bank’s ongoing commitment to giving back to the communities they serve, aligning with their “You Ask, We Help” philosophy to make a positive local impact.

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7/17/25 12:42 PM

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION A • PAGE 11

LOCAL NEWS

Wisconsin-Whitewater announces 2025 spring graduates

WHITEWATER, Wis. — The following students earned degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater at spring commencement, held May 17.

Oregon: Evan Vache graduated Summa Cum Laude with the following degree: Finance - BBA Byron: Emma Wrede graduated Magna Cum Laude with the following

degree: Psychology - BS Approximately 1,500 students crossed the stage to receive their degrees at the ceremony, held at Kachel Fieldhouse in the Williams Center.

The graduating class included seven international students, 111 military veterans and 204 nontraditional students, defined as undergraduate students who are 25 years of age or older. In

addition, 171 self-identified students with disabilities received degrees.

A total of 222 students participated in the university’s Hired Before Graduation campaign,

which celebrates students who landed a job, were promoted in their current job, earned acceptance to graduate school or started their own business before commencement.

July 21: For our program on Monday, July 21, Country Crossroads Quilt Guild will welcome Linda Halpin from Reedsberg, Wisconsin. Linda will be presenting a program titled “Borders on Parade.” Using her personal collection of quilts, she will guide us through the wide range of possibilities for border treatments by examining dozens of variations in border design. Visitors are welcome; for Visitors there is a fee of $5 at the door.

Membership dues are $20 per year. Guild meetings are held at the Forreston Grove Church, 7246 Freeport Road; Forreston, on the third Monday of each month (except December) at 7 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. to provide ample time to meet and greet members before the meeting. For more information call Program Committee Chair Kay Walker, 815-275-2904, or Guild President Jennifer Newcomer,708-774-3279.

July 24: The Polo Farmers Market (crafters & farmers welcome) takes

place each Thursday from 3-6 p.m. at the Polo Marketplace Pavilion (Just south of Shell on Division Avenue). Vendors include Deuth Farms Meats, Earl-E Green Gardens, Ewe and Me Acres, Ferguson Farm, Ivan’s Farm (Marian), Simpson Gardens, S.S. Creations and Vera’s Crafts.

July 26: Byron Kiwanis Sack Lunch Saturday! The next Byron Kiwanis pork chop sandwich sale this season is scheduled for Saturday, July 26 in the St. Mary Catholic Church parking lot, located at 220 E. Blackhawk Drive. The sale will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. or until chops are gone. A sack lunch is available for $9 and includes a grilled Eichman’s butterfly pork chop sandwich, chips, cookie, and a bottle of water. A single sandwich can be purchased for $6. These delicious sandwiches sell out quickly so be sure to stop by early. All proceeds benefit programs in our community. Some of the

programs Byron Kiwanis supports include Mary Morgan Family Reading Night, youth education and sports, scholarships for high school seniors, Byron Elementary’s PBIS program, Crossroads Blues Society, the Byron Schools Food Pantry, Village of Progress, and Serenity Hospice and Home. The club holds an annual breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus to benefit Operation Santa. It also sponsors the Builder’s Club at Byron Middle School and the Key Club at the Byron High School.

July 28: The Ogle County Historical Society will have their monthly meeting on Monday, July 28 at 6:30 p.m. We meet at the carriage house annex building located behind (east of) the Nash House Museum at 111 N. Sixth St. in Oregon. Come join us. All are welcome.

July 30: Kable Band brings two more concerts of its 129th season. You won’t want to miss the final two concerts of the

summer. Andy Eckardt will be directing. Final concert of the season will be July 30, so bring your lawn chairs and enjoy an evening of concert band music. Concerts are held in the Reckmeyer Bandshell on the Mt. Morris Campus. Come early for the ice cream social at 7 p.m., and the concert will begin at 7:30 p.m.

For more information: mtmorrisil.net/concerts and encoremtmorris.com Aug. 1: To celebrate Sweet Corn Appreciation Day, House Minority Leader Tony McCombie is hosting an event on Aug. 1. Leader McCombie passed legislation in 2022 to make August 1st the official Sweet Corn Appreciation Day in Illinois and this year’s event marks the fourth annual celebration. “Sweet Corn Day is a celebration of community, connection, and the simple joy of sharing good food with the people we care about,” said McCombie. “Sweet corn holds a special place

in our hearts and on our tables, and reaching the fourth annual Sweet Corn Day is a meaningful milestone that reflects the enthusiasm that continues to grow around this event: it keeps getting bigger and better.” All are welcome.

The event will feature bounce houses, face painting, and, of course, sweet corn. The date, time, and location for the Fourth Annual Sweet Corn Day are as follows: Friday, Aug. 1 4-7 p.m. 9317 Illinois Route 84, Savanna. If you have questions about Sweet Corn Day, please call 815-291-8989.

Aug. 4: The Leaf River United Methodist Church is hosting a Community Blood Drive on Monday, Aug. 4. Staff from the Rock River Valley Blood Center will draw blood between 12:30-5:30 p.m. Do you like to help others? Giving to others feels amazing. In busy, complicated times, giving blood is an easy, meaningful way to make a difference. In fact, this

simple gift can enhance the lives of up to three people. Giving blood only takes about one relaxing hour, and we - and your body - do all of the work.

Remember, blood is a gift - straight from the heart. Your heart. Please share it today! If you are at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in general good health, you should be eligible to donate blood. Join us in sharing the Gift of Life.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, you can find the Leaf River United Methodist Church on Facebook or contact Laura at 815-276-5773 (call or text), or the Rock River Valley Blood Center at 815/965-8751, toll free at 877-RRVBC-99 or on the web at www.rrvbc. org. Thank you!

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.

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7/17/25 12:42 PM

SECTION A • PAGE 12 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

OSF HealthCare Invites community to Specialty Clinic Open House

DIXON – OSF HealthCare Saint Katharine Medical Center is inviting the public to an open house showcasing its pulmonology, endocrinology and audiology departments on Monday, July 21, from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at Commerce Towers, 101 W. 2nd St., in suites 111 and 117.

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet the care teams, tour the clinics, and learn more about the integrated approach to specialty care offered at OSF Saint Katharine. Light refreshments will be served.

“This is a great opportunity for the community to get to know our specialists and see how we work together to provide compassionate, coordinated care,” said Tracy Sharp, manager of physician offices for OSF Saint Katharine.

The event is free and (COURTESY PHOTO) open to the public. No reg- OSF HealthCare Saint Katharine Medical Center is inviting the public to an open house showcasing its pulmonology, endocrinology and istration is required. audiology departments on Monday, July 21, from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at Commerce Towers, 101 W. 2nd St., in suites 111 and 117.

Chicago Tribute Anthology to play Mt. Morris Jamboree on July 25

MT. MORRIS — The Mt. Morris Jamboree is pleased to announce the return of Chicago Tribute Anthology to our Bandshell stage for a free two-hour concert on July 25, from 7-9 p.m.

In April of 1969, a new rock ‘n roll band burst onto the scene garnering nationwide attention.

Born in the Midwest and infused with elements of jazz, blues, and Latin influences, the first album by “Chicago Transit Authority”, or CTA as they were commonly known, went double platinum.

Such hits as Beginnings, Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?, and Question 67 & 68 propelled the band to popularity.

With a rock rhythm section led by the brilliant guitarist Terry Kath, a powerful horn section, and unique vocals, the band now known simply as “Chicago” released their second album in

January of 1970. Considered by many to be the band’s breakout album, Chicago 2 would also go platinum with hits like: Make me Smile; Colour My World; and 25 or 6 to 4.

Chicago became a dominant force in popular music during the 1970s, producing at least one new album each year. This period was marked by the release of classic songs like, Free, Saturday in the Park, Dialogue, Just You ‘n Me, Feelin’ Stronger Every Day, Call On Me, and Old Days, to name a few.

CTA brings to life the ‘Golden Age’ of Chicago by meticulously recreating many of the great songs from the first 11 albums. Members include To m A n d e r s o n , P a u l Bata, Terry Geraci, Paul Mabin, Chuck Parrish, Reed Pauley, Dan Peters and John Springbrunn.

Learn more about the band at http://www.chi-

(COURTESY PHOTO)

The Mt. Morris Jamboree is pleased to announce the return of Chicago Tribute Anthology to our Bandshell stage for a free two-hour concert on July 25, from 7-9 p.m.

cagotribute.net. Enjoy CTA live and experience all of these classic songs just the way you remember them!

Concessions for the evening will be provided by both St. James Lutheran Church, who will offer brats, homemade BBQ, hot dogs, chips, and a wide assortment of homemade pies, with all proceeds supporting

local and global ministries that provide food, shelter, and health care, and P.E.O. Chapter CU, who will be serving brats, hot dogs, chips, soft drinks, and water. The LFR Committee will have root beer floats, and Just 4 Fun ice cream as well as Bill’s Famous Lemonade stand will be there too, all starting at 5 p.m. Popcorn Girls

Emmie and Lily from the Mt. Morris Center will likely be serving fresh popped corn uptown too.

Ewe and Me Acres will have a fresh produce stand with a variety of fruits, vegetables, baked goods, jams, jellies and dog treats on the Campus along with other craft and plant vendors from 4-8 p.m.

Encore’s Art Gallery

and the Mt. Morris Historical Museum will be open during concerts on the Campus as well.

Please bring a blanket or lawn chair, as the benches will likely fill fast, and join us on our Historical Campus, located two blocks south of Illinois Route 64 on Wesley Avenue and enjoy the free classic rock concert.

Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department electronics recycling event is Aug. 9

OREGON — The Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department (OCSWMD) will be hosting a recycling event for used motor oil, anti-freeze, used oil filters, liquid latex paint, aerosol spray cans, single use propane cylinders, alkaline batteries, clothing and child car seats on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 8 a.m. to noon at the County Annex Building located at 909 Pines Road in Oregon. No permits are required for this recycling event.

OCL A JULY 21.indd 12

Liquid latex paint will be accepted for recycling.

There is a fee per container of $1/quart, $2/gallon, and $10/pail for the first 10 containers. Paint should be brought to the event in its’ original container and not be bulked together so it can be properly recycled. The OCSWMD will subsidize a portion of the cost to recycle your latex paint up to 10 containers. The full cost of $3/quart, $6/gallon, and $20/pail will be charged for additional containers over the first 10. Oil based paint

and stains can be recycled for $6/quart, $10/gallon, and $26/pail. Cash, credit card, or checks payable to “EarthPaint” will be accepted for payment of paint recycling.

Aerosol cans, small 14-16 ounce propane cylinders, and small butane cylinders will also be accepted

by Flatcan Recycling.

There is no cost for up to 10 containers. For over 10 items aerosol cans will be $1 each and propane and butane cylinders will be $4 each for recycling. Not

all aerosol products will be able to be accepted. Please call the OCSWMD at 815-732-4020 for specific questions or see the county website. Flatcan Recycling will also accept alkaline batteries for recycling for $4 per pound and one child car seat at no charge. Additional child car seats will be $10 per seat. Flatcan will also accept old clothing and textiles at no charge.

Clean clothing, shoes, bedding, towels, and other household textiles will be accepted. Items can be in

any condition as long as they’re not wet or moldy.

Items with rips, tears, stains that won’t wash out, missing buttons, zippers, etc. are acceptable.

Used oil, anti-freeze, and used oil filters will also be able to be recycled at the event. There is no fee for this service.

Small containers of used oil and/or anti-freeze will be bulked together and your containers returned to you for future use. Large drums also accepted and will be vacuum-pumped

out. Limit 200 gallons, if you have more than 200 gallons please call the number above for recycling options. No fuels, cooking oils, or other automotive fluid will be accepted.

This event is for Ogle County residents only and there are no permits required. Please call the number above, visit, or see the OCSWMD on Facebook at Ogle County Solid Waste Management Dept. for more information about this recycling event.

7/17/25 12:42 PM

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION A • PAGE 13

(COURTESY PHOTOS)

Serenity Hospice and Home held its annual Memorial Butterfly Release on the sunny morning of June 28. A wonderful crowd gathered to honor and remember loved ones through the reading of memorial names, a special tribute to Veterans, and the release of hundreds of Monarch butterflies.

Butterflies lift spirits at Serenity Hospice’s annual memorial

OREGON — Serenity Hospice and Home held its annual Memorial Butterfly Release on the sunny morning of June 28. A wonderful crowd

gathered to honor and remember loved ones through the reading of memorial names, a special tribute to Veterans, and the release of hun-

dreds of Monarch butterflies.

Guests were delighted as the butterflies slowly awakened and took flight, creating moments of joy

as they fluttered around, landing on participants and nearby milkweed plants. The peaceful morning concluded with cupcakes and heartfelt

conversation among families, friends, and community members.

Serenity Hospice and Home extends its deepest gratitude to all volun-

teers, guests, staff, and The Village of Progress for providing shuttle service and helping make this cherished tradition possible.

Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department electronics recycling event is July 25

OREGON — The Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department (OCSWMD) will be hosting a residential electronics recycling event on Friday, July 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 909 Pines Road in Oregon.

This event is for Ogle County residents only and a free permit is required in advance of the event. To

OCL A JULY 21.indd 13

obtain a free permit call 815-732-4020 or email solidwaste@oglecountyil.gov and provide your name, address, phone number and email address by 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 24.

Accepted items include all televisions and computer monitors, computers, computer hardware and cables, laptops, tab-

lets, cell phones, printers, FAX machines, scanners, shredders (no tubs), copiers, video gaming equipment, DVD/VCRs, cable/ satellite boxes, stereo equipment, radios, digital clocks, cameras, calculators, phone systems, holiday light strands, extension cords, rechargeable batteries, printer ink cartridges, CD/DVDs, and

CFL bulbs. Microwave ovens accepted for $5 per unit. Cash or check accepted.

Large toner cartridges are no longer accepted at the residential electronic recycling events. They can be taken back to office supply stores, or they can be recycled through our business recycling program for a nominal fee.

Limit seven (7) large or bulky items per permit and one permit per county household per month.

Business or institutional electronic materials not accepted at these events.

Business or institutional electronics are accepted by the OCSWMD via a separate program. Call the number above for more information and pricing

for business electronic recycling, and to make an appointment for drop off of the materials to be recycled.

For more information about this recycling event call the OCSWMD at the number above, visit www. oglecountyil.gov, or on Facebook at Ogle County Solid Waste Management Dept.

7/17/25 12:42 PM

SECTION A • PAGE 14 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

Mott to speak at Oregon Depot July 26 on history of the banjo

OREGON —The “Those Were the Days” presentation at the Oregon Illinois Depot on Saturday, July 26 at 10 a.m. will feature Oregon native Michael Mott tracing the history of the banjo from its early beginnings as a gourd instrument to the instrument we recognize today. Michael plays a variety of stringed instruments, the guitar, the auto-harp, the ukulele, and the upright bass.

Mott recently entertained the audience during a First Friday event at the Oregon VFW and was awarded a plaque. Michael notes that he took up the banjo in the eighth grade and has been inspired

by Earl Scruggs, Stringbean and Grandpa Jones. He will bring four of his banjos with him to the depot and play a song or two from each era.

For more information about this program or other programs, please contact Roger Cain 815.757.9715, Chris Martin 815.742.8472 or Otto Dick 815.440.0639. Pictured is Michael Mott with his Jamaican made gourd banjo.

(COURTESY PHOTO)

Voter registration purge begins in Ogle County

OREGON – The Voter Registration purge has begun in Ogle County. Ogle County Clerk and Recorder Laura J. Cook, states per the Illinois state statutes, election officials are required to purge certain voters from the county’s voter registration rolls every two years. The purge keeps voter registration accurate because it allows the removal of voters

who are ineligible because they have changed their name, moved or passed away.

If you have moved without notifying us, the Voter ID card will be sent back to our office by the Post Office as this type of mail cannot be forwarded. If there is a forwarding address on the returned card that is within our jurisdiction, we will send

a “confirmation letter” to this new address. Please fill out and return the “confirmation letter” with the correct information. If your new address is in Ogle County, we will update your information and send you a new voter registration card.

If there is a forwarding address on the returned card that is out of our jurisdiction, we will also send a “confir-

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mation letter” to your new address. Please fill out your new address and return the “confirmation letter” to us or register in your new jurisdiction and that jurisdiction will notify us and we will cancel your voter registration in our system. If you do not reply to the “confirmation letter”, do not update your address within our jurisdiction, and do not vote in two

general elections, you will be inactive in our system.

After 30 days, voters whose cards have been returned to us will be inactivated.

Inactive status requires the voter to re-register to vote.

Voters need to be correctly registered so they are placed in the correct voting districts and voting precincts.

The County Clerk’s Office mailed new voter regis-

tration cards to every registered voter in Ogle County the week of July 18. Once you receive your new voter registration card, please review the printed information for accuracy. If the person no longer resides at the address listed, if you are registered and do not receive a card or if you notice a discrepancy, please call the office at 815732-1110.

The Power of Your Tongue

Did you ever stop to think about how much influence your words have? Did you ever see a sad child’s face light up when you stopped to say hi, or maybe you called someone to wish them a happy birthday or to congratulate a friend on a recent success. Or maybe a friend has lost someone close and you offer a few condolences or some kind words. If you have done this, you will know what a difference you can make in their day. Our tongues could be considered one of our most powerful body parts. (Read James 3) Consider the effect on the world when President Trump declares he will impose tariffs on every country he wants to do trade with.

The influence of his words can cause the stock market to either gain or lose millions of dollars instantly. His words can affect almost any business or industry, whether for better or worse. His tongue has power.

But we don’t need to be a president of a country to have a powerful tongue. In fact, President Trump had a powerful tongue long before he was president. Each one of us has a tongue that can be very powerful to the people close to us.

We have each been given the blessing of being able to speak, but how do we use our tongues? When we believe we have been mistreated, we can either get angry and shout at someone; or we can be quiet and look for ways to return a favor. Do we mock others or do we speak respectfully to them and about them? Do we lie to try to benefit ourselves or do we tell the truth even if it helps someone else more than us?

Our tongues have the potential to either build relationships or tear them apart. Our words also affect our standing with God. Jesus said, “Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:36-37

OCL A JULY 21.indd 14

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7/17/25 12:42 PM

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION A • PAGE 15

LOCAL NEWS

Illinois Route 72 in Davis Junction closed on July 14

DAVIS JUNCTION – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced July 8 that Illinois 72 will be closed

at the Illinois Railway crossing in Davis Junction in Ogle County beginning on Monday, July 14. The crossing is located nearly

a mile west of Illinois Route 251.

The closure will allow the railroad to perform needed maintenance to

their at-grade crossing.

The road is anticipated to be closed for a week.

A detour will be posted directing traffi c to use

Illinois Route 251, Illinois Route 64 and Meridian Road.

For IDOT District 2 updates, follow us on X

at @IDOTDistrict2 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

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SECTION A • PAGE 16 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

(COURTESY PHOTOS)

The Ogle County Republican Party recently confirmed that Pastor Corey Brooks will be the keynote speaker at its 2025 Lowden Day Dinner on Aug. 21 at The River’s Edge Experience in Oregon.

‘The Rooftop Pastor’ Brooks headlines Ogle GOP fundraiser Aug. 21 in Oregon (Helping Others Obtain Destiny). Widely known as the “Rooftop Pastor,” he first spent 94 days living on a rooftop in the dead of winter to draw national attention to gun violence

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and poverty on Chicago’s South Side. A decade later, he returned to the rooftop for a second, unprecedented 343-day vigil, where he raised over $20 million and garnered more than 20,000 new partners in the mission to transform lives and rebuild the community.

Under his leadership, Project H.O.O.D. is now building a $45 million Leadership and Economic Opportunity Center, which will include trades training, trauma counseling, entrepreneurship hubs, a private Christian school for boys, and much more.

Pastor Brooks is a national voice for urban renewal, conservative values, and faith-based solutions to systemic issues. His work emphasizes personal responsibility, economic opportunity, and spiritual transformation.

He frequently appears on the Fox News Channel and other major media outlets, offering bold insights on community change, school choice, and restoring the American Dream.

“We are lucky to be able to bring in such a powerful speaker in Pastor Corey B. Brooks,” said Mike Koolidge, chairman of the Ogle County GOP. “He was electrifying as he delivered the benediction at the 2024 Republican National Convention and is a dynamic speaker and personality that should make this Lowden Day Dinner one to remember.”

Koolidge also announced that a portion of the proceeds from the Lowden Day Dinner will go to support Project H.O.O.D. The Lowden Day Dinner will also feature two conservative comedians, Jayson Cross of Chicago, and Lisa Janes who hails from Dixon. Janes has a personal connection to the namesake of the Lowden Day Dinner, as she is the granddaughter of Governor Frank O. Lowden’s personal driver, William Fritz.

“We’re trying to mix it up a bit, make these annual political events more fun.

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Everyone loves to laugh, so we’re inviting Lisa and Jayson specifically to make that happen.”

A Silent Auction will be held during the event, with biddings held for several items that will appeal to patriotic pride in the United States.

Koolidge: “There was a very recent Gallup poll that showed that only 36% of Democrats in 2025 are ‘proud to be American’ compared to 92% of Republicans. While the Democrats currently hold the most power in Illinois, they are insanely out of touch with where the country is at, and where it’s going.

The Republican Party is the party of both the present and the future. The Golden Age is upon us. Join us on Thursday, Aug. 21 at the River’s Edge Experience in Oregon and join the party, in every sense of the word.”

Event tickets are available for $85 per person from any Republican Precinct Committeeman, as well as online at https:// www.oglecountygop.org/ ldd_2025. There are also tickets available to attend a special pre-event V.I.P. reception for Pastor Brooks for an additional $100 per person. https://www.oglecountygop.org/ Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/OgleCountyRepublicans Project Hood: https:// www.projecthood.org/

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River’s Edge Experience in Oregon.

Pastor Corey B. Brooks is the founder and Senior Pastor of New Beginnings Church of Chicago and the CEO of Project H.O.O.D.

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OREGON — The Ogle County Republican Party recently confirmed that Pastor Corey Brooks will be the keynote speaker at its 2025 Lowden Day Dinner on Aug. 21 at The

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Christel Ackland 815-561-2153 MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025 • SECTION B • PAGE 1

Chris Grimm 815-561-2125

Registration now open for pickleball at Stillman Valley Fall Festival

1213 4th Street Dixon $159,900 Call JD

NEW LISTING

Fully Remodeled Stylish, Spacious & Move-In Ready! This beautifully updated two-story home blends classic charm with modern finishes throughout. Featuring four bedrooms and two full baths, the home has been completely renovated inside and out-including a newer roof, as well as new siding, gutters, windows, doors, fascia & soffit, electrical, plumbing, interiors, kitchen, and bathrooms. Enjoy cooking in the stunning new kitchen with brand-new appliances, and take advantage of the convenience of main floor laundry. A detached garage with painted exterior complete the package. Truly move-in ready, this home offers worryfree living with all the major updates already done. Make it yours today.

123 E 3rd St Byron $192,900 Call Becky

NEW LISTING

Spacious 4 BR 2 story near the heart of Byron! Every room in this home is extremely large and boosts lots of character with the original oversized 8” woodwork, hardwood flooring, and 5 panel doors. Kitchen had a complete remodel 6 years ago with the tall cherry color cabinets, granite countertops island with seating for 3, pantry, coffee bar, farm style sink. Dining room has crown molding, side door to front porch, transom windows over doorways, and full size pocket door to LR. Bathroom on main level was updated ‘24 and included new shower, vanity & toilet. LR has two large picture windows and another pocket door to foyer. Curved open stairway to the 4 upper bedrooms and a large remodeled (6 yrs ago) bathroom with a walking tile shower, claw foot tub, heat lamp and large vanity with granite. This home sits on .37 acres and is unique with its double wrap around L-shaped porches-both up and down. Fenced yard (picnic tables stay), single garage w/opener plus an additional 2 car garage off alley. Roof 10 years, water softener. Located in the outstanding Byron school district!

7837 Wagon Wheel Road Rockford $202,500 Call Taylor

NEW LISTING

Nestled on a quiet street in the desirable Stillman Valley school district, this beautifully maintained home offers the perfect balance of privacy and convenience. Sitting on just over an acre of land, you’ll enjoy a tranquil setting just minutes from restaurants and shopping, the airport, and major highways. Inside, the home features a stylish, updated kitchen with dovetail soft-close cabinetry, newer light fixtures, and a brand-new bathroom vanity with elegant marble flooring. Additional updates include newer doors and trim throughout. The extra-deep garage offers plenty of room for storage or a potential workshop. All appliances stay, including a 3-year-old oven, and a pool table is also included if desired. Major mechanicals-furnace, water softener, and water heater-are all just 5 years old, providing peace of mind for years to come. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a move-in-ready home in a sought-after location with room to stretch out and enjoy nature.

Rebecca Hazzard Designated Managing Broker/Owner

815-509-8432

Carla Benesh 815-985-6235

Lori Peterson 815-973-2180

JD Gieson 815-677-1873

Becky Adams 815-509-5837

1011 N Limekiln Road Oregon $105,000 Call Rebecca

NEW LISTING

Rural Fixer-Upper on 2.7 Acres – Just West of Oregon! Looking for a peaceful country setting with room to grow? This 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home sits on 2.7 scenic acres just west of Oregon and is ready for your vision and updates! Featuring a spacious living room, a large kitchen, and a bonus dining area, this home offers a solid layout with endless potential. Whether you’re looking to renovate, invest, or create your dream homestead, the possibilities are wide open. Outside, you’ll find a detached shed—perfect for hobbies, storage, or even a future workshop.

Surrounded by open space, this property is ideal for those craving the tranquility of country living. Bring your ideas and make this rural gem your own! Schedule your showing today and explore the potential!

208 W First Street Mt Morris $170,000 Call Rebecca

NEW LISTING

Charming 3-Bedroom Home in Mt. Morris with Updated Features and a Beautiful Cedar Porch!

Don’t miss this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home in the heart of Mt. Morris, offering a perfect blend of character and modern convenience. Set on a peaceful lot, this home features a lovely screened-in cedar porch—an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the seasons. Inside, you’ll find many updates completed over the last 4 years, including new electric, LVT plank flooring, updated bathrooms, stylish light fixtures, and a brand-new roof in 2024. The main floor welcomes you with a charming kitchen and cozy breakfast nook, a formal dining room, and a spacious living room, as well as a main floor bedroom and a full bath—perfect for flexible living. Upstairs, two additional bedrooms with built-in storage and a half bath provide comfort and functionality. A major bonus is the oversized 2-car detached garage with plenty of space for vehicles, tools, and hobbies. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to downsize with style, this Mt. Morris gem is move-in ready and waiting for you! Schedule your private tour today!

122 N 4th Street Oregon $99,000 Call Rebecca

NEW LISTING

Prime Commercial Opportunity in the Heart of Downtown Oregon!

Located in the vibrant and growing Downtown Oregon district, this versatile commercial building, currently home to the Oregon Chamber of Commerce, offers endless potential for your next business venture. With over 1,300 square feet of space, the current layout includes a welcoming foyer, conference area, two private offices, and ample storage. Whether you’re envisioning a professional office, a retail storefront, or a cozy restaurant or café, this flexible floor plan can be easily adapted to suit your needs. Positioned in a high-visibility location with foot traffic and charm, this property is part of a thriving downtown community full of energy, growth, and opportunity. Bring your vision and make it happen in Downtown Oregon! Schedule your private tour today

900 S Third St Oregon $149,000 Call Rebecca

NEW LISTING

Charming 4-Bedroom Home on Spacious Corner Lot with Detached 2.5-Car Garage!

Welcome to this wellmaintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home situated on a desirable corner lot!

Boasting a new roof and numerous updates, this home combines comfort, functionality, and charm. Step inside to find a bright eat-in kitchen and a separate formal dining room, perfect for hosting family and friends. The main floor features a beautifully updated bathroom and a versatile bedroom that can easily be used as a home office.

Enjoy the convenience of main floor laundry, thoughtfully located in the cozy 4-season bonus porch—ideal for year-round use and a great mudroom! Upstairs, you’ll find additional bedrooms and a full bathroom, offering plenty of space for everyone. The fully fenced yard provides privacy and room to play, garden, or entertain. The detached 2.5-car garage offers generous storage and workspace.

Boone Lockard 815-970-3506

Jenny Kirchner 815-440-2145

Jennifer Rybicki 773-849-3522

Taylor Miller 815-751-8943

4JwAdZyx5. Payment options are available when completing the registration online. Online registration is encouraged, but for those who are unable to use that entry forms can be obtained from the Stillman Valley Fall Festival website (stillmanvalleyfallfestival. com) as well as at the

Village Hall in Stillman Valley. Checks can be made to SVFF. Forms can be mailed to PO Box 216, Stillman Valley, IL 61084. The deadline for getting entries in is Sept.

12. Remember registration is limited to the first 16 entries in each category, so get them in early.

PR NEW IC E

Set on a .40-acre fenced lot in a quiet neighborhood, 1442 W. Indian Heights offers 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths in a comfortable, well-designed floor plan that blends practicality with charm. In the living room, you’ll find vaulted ceilings, a cozy gas fireplace, and a skylight that brings in natural light. New carpet adds a clean, refreshed feel to the space, with updated flooring extending into the bedrooms for a cohesive, move-in-ready look. The kitchen features low-maintenance vinyl flooring and opens directly to the backyard deck-perfect for relaxing or hosting casual get-togethers. The master suite includes a private bath and a spacious walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms are located on the main floor, offering functional space for family, guests, or home office use. The walk-out basement provides flexible living options with a family room, rec room, wet bar, half bath, and a generously sized walk-in closet. A versatile bonus room with closet works well as an office, den, or creative space. Exterior Govee lighting adds a contemporary accent and enhances curb appeal, especially in the evenings.

in each of the round robin competitions. Participants in one event will receive a tee shirt. Participants that sign up for both the team event and the round robin event will receive a tee shirt and a visor.

This year an online entry form is available at https:// forms.gle/MvuWeNVL-

291 S Ill Route 2 Unit 441 Dixon NOW $52,500 Call JD

PR NEW IC E

1442 Indian Heights Road Oregon $239,900 Call Stephanie

NEW LISTING

round robin competitions to register. Registration fees are $42 per team and $22 per individual in the round robin competitions.

There will be cash prizes of $100 for first, $80 for second and $60 for third place in the team tournament, and $50 for first, $40 for second and $30 for third

1934 Phillip Drive Dixon NOW $374,900 Call JD

PR NEW IC E

for doubles as well as two round robin competitions.

The round robin competitions will take place in the morning and the double elimination tournament will be in the afternoon.

Due to court limitations, entries will be limited to the first 16 teams, and first 16 individuals in each of the

102 E Front Street Mt Morris NOW $159,900 Call Jennifer Rybicki

Affordable 3 bed 2 bath mobile home, conveniently located between Dixon and Sterling in Rock River Estates. This unit offers vaulted ceilings, main floor laundry, and a large master suite. Additional bonuses include a pellet burning fireplace, covered parking, storage shed, and additional rear porch. Ready for your finishing touches!

Spacious and beautifully maintained 4 bed, 2.5 bath brick ranch just outside of town, offering the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and outdoor enjoyment. The home features a main floor master suite with a separate tub, double vanity, and walk-in shower, main floor laundry, and multiple family rooms for versatile living. Entertain on the large enclosed patio with durable polyurea concrete coating, or relax in the heated in-ground pool with new liner (2025) and automatic cover. The partially finished basement offers a potential 5th bedroom and additional space that is ready to be customized. Complete with a gas fireplace, 2-car attached garage, and all appliances included-this home is move-in ready and made for living and entertaining. Make it yours today!

This warm and welcoming 2 Bedroom, 1 bathroom home with 1216 sq ft of living space, ideally located in Mt Morris on a corner lot, close to downtown. This inviting home features high ceilings, original hardwood floors, and spacious living areas with arched entryways into living and dining room. The newly remodeled kitchen and bathroom shine with modern updates, new appliances as well as updated electrical throughout entire home. The full basement provides ample room for your storage needs. Enjoy the outdoors from the large, covered front porch as well as an enclosed back porch or mudroom. The property includes a 2-car attached garage, completing this move-in-ready Gem! Schedule your showing today.

PR NEW IC E

STILLMAN VALLEY — Kishwaukee Community Church is sponsoring Stillman Valley Fall Festival’s third pickleball tournament. The Rally in the Valley Part Three pickleball tournament will take place Saturday, Sept.

27. There will be a double elimination tournament

10245 W Penn Corner Road Polo NOW $670,000 Call Jennifer Rybicki

Peaceful country living on 33 Acres MOLOne owner home! Welcome to this beautiful maintained country home nestled on 33 acres, with 28 MOL acres of crop landperfect for farming, or simply enjoying the wide open view. Built in 1978 with great craftsmanship, this spacious 4-bedroom, 3 full bathroom home offers 2,700 sq ft of comfortable living space. The main level features a generous master suite with large walk in closet and full bath. A 2nd bedroom is located on the opposite end of home which provides privacy from main bedroom. The living room provides a warm and cozy gas fireplace with large windows overlooking the great views. The kitchen features custom oak cabinets with endless storage for all of your pantry items. Natural light pours into the beautiful enclosed sunroom with 3 new sliding glass doors, perfect for entertaining year round. The second level has 2 large bedrooms with full bath and a generous storage room, to store your seasonal decor. The full basement includes a wood burning stove, ideal for added warmth and energy efficiency. It also includes a concrete wall/ ceiling room, ideal for a future walk in freezer or refrigerator setup. For convenience, the 2 car attached garage has it’s own entrance into basement and home. Outside, the first impression is country charm with a welcoming exterior and two large outbuildings, one of which is heated - offering plenty of space for equipment, workshop use or potential live stock. Additional amenities include a Kholer generator for true peace of mind for home as well as outbuildings. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to own this beautiful country property!

Kyle Schipper 309-428-9407

606 E Washington St., Oregon, IL 114 E Everett, Dixon, IL

815-732-9100 Merri Cruz

Casey Cline

815-988-7947

217-840-8855

OCL B JULY 21.indd 1

Jamie Pendergrass 815-243-4310

Ashley Patterson 815-291-6308

Erin Spence 815-262-5555

Stephanie Wendt 815-985-2055

Jenn Goley 630-732-6858

Kira Goral 815-440-9618

Matt Bouback 815-505-5827

Jessica Lowry 815-315-2617

RockValleyProperties.com Each office is independently owned & operated.

7/17/25 12:37 PM

SECTION B • PAGE 2 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

OREGON PUBLIC LIBRARY Level Up at Your Library Youth summer reading program is counting down...Book logs are coming due, raffle tickets are becoming available and there are still some programs left in July! The Adult Summer Reading program ending August 9th is also available for those 18 years and older!

Summer Reading Program Schedule Registration required for all programs. Monday, July 21, Story Time 10 am (18 months-6 yrs.).

Tuesday, July 22, Lego Club, 2 pm (2nd grade & up). Friday, July 25, ALL Youth Book Logs & raffle tickets DUE Kanopy is Now Available Kanopy is now available for Oregon Public Library cardholders. Instantly stream movies from Kanopy’s collection of 31,000 popular videos, TV series, independent films, documentaries and

more. All you need is a library card to create an account. To better serve our patrons we replaced Hoopla with Kanopy.

Hoopla services ended on June 30th.

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 will be available to each 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.

Ink with A Friend Monthly Card Club 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 beau-

tiful 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 Movie at the Library Wednesday, July 23 at 1:30 pm. Join us for an hour of science fiction, superstition, drama, and plenty of twists with Rod Serling. Registration requested.

Book Clubs Cocktails and Crime will meet July 20, so stop by the Library to find out title, location and time. Books on Tap Book Club will meet Thursday, July 24 at 6 pm at Cork & Tap to discuss

The Husbands by Holly Gramazio. The 2WBC meets Wednesday, August 13, at 12:30 to discuss Clan of the Cave Bear

by Jean Auel. Is This Just Fantasy? Book Club will meet in August at 6 pm at the Library to discuss Masters of Death

by Olivie Blake. The Afternoon Book Club meets Wednesday, August 20, at 1 pm to discuss How to Read a Book by Monica Wood.

Functional Fitness 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 fine-tune 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 - Reg-

istration 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. Registration is requested, visit http:// w w w. o r e g o n p u b l i c l i brary.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 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 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.

Library Closings The Mount Morris Library will close early on Thursday, July 31st to get ready for our Summer Reading Program Picnic!

We will be closing at 4pm to head over for the fun! If you participated in our Summer Reading Challenge and completed at least one punch cardyou are invited! Call the library to RSVP and for more details.

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, July 21st at 1pm. YUM!!! Come on Monday at 1pm to read some great books, learn about new foods, and have a treat! We will Miss Julie here to talk about some delicious food! She is always ready to share information and ideas!

This program is available to everyone, regardless of library card or not. Then, at 2pm our drop-in craft is creating a dragonfly!

Summer Reading Program Schedule July 21 st -26 th . Last Week for Reading Challenges. Food! Program with Miss Julie Monday, July 21 st 1pm. Dragonfly

Drop-In Craft Monday, July 21st 2pm-6pm, while supplies last. Grab-N-Go Craft Kit Tue-Sat, July 22 nd-26 th while supplies last. Pre-School Story Time Wednesday, July 23rd at 11:15am. Board Game Family Night Thursday, July 24 th at 5:30pm. Back to School!

- Lego Challenge Friday, July 25 th from 11am-5pm.

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!

Read with Therapy Dog, Holly Monday, July 28th. We have an exciting opportunity at the Mount Morris Library with Holly, a local therapy dog. Holly will be here on the 4th Monday of each month from 5pm until 6:30pm for 15-minute time slots.

You can register a child for a time slot using the link in our Facebook Events page! This program is free for anyone, but you must register to let Holly know you will be coming to visit!

Lego Night!

Thursday, August 21 st 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!

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 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 want-bring them to the Mount Morris Library! We cannot accept textbooks, encyclopedias, Reader’s Digest Condensed books, VHS tapes, or audio cassettes.

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 memorial gifts in 2023.

N e w s p a p e r Av a i l able!

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 held 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

Lunch and game night Join us on Thursday, July 24th at 11:30 for lunch at Disco Chicken! Follow that up at 6:00 pm for

Community Game Night at The Center.

Breakfast Every Wednesday from 8 am to 10 am you can enjoy

our delicious biscuits and gravy with a cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate.

Exercise We have an ongoing

Highland Sponsored exercise class at The Center every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday morning at 9 am! Come and try it out!

MT. MORRIS PUBLIC LIBRARY

MT. MORRIS SENIOR CENTER The following events are happening at the Mt. Morris Senior & Community Center!

Jam Session

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Come listen to local musicians and enjoy lunch on Wednesday, July 23rd .

Our Jam Session is every 4th Wednesday at 10:30 am.

7/17/25 12:44 PM

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION B • PAGE 3

LOCAL NEWS

BYRON PUBLIC LIBRARY

Did you know That the Byron Public Library offers free notary services? Several of our staff members are registered notaries, and can notarize documents during most library hours. Please call the library at 815-2345107 for notary availability or to set up an appointment.

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 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 815-2345107. 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!

A g I n The Classroom Library Thursday, July 24th at 10:30AM: Miss Melinda would love for you to come learn about colorful Nutrition. We will make MyPlate Bracelets, play Fruit & Veggie Bingo, and enjoy a Fruit Parfait Snack.

BINGO Monday, July 28th at 2:00PM: Attention BINGO fans of all ages: We’ve got free game play and great prizes, including a Grand Prize donated for the final round of blackout! Join us!

Back to School Bash Thursday, August 7th at 11:00AM: Join us for free activities and games. A free hot dog lunch will be available at noon followed by snow cones. Registration is required for this event by calling 815-738-2742

by July 31st.

Get SSET 4 School

Now through August 2nd Get SSET 4 School (Supplying Students Educational Tools 4 School) is a local group that collects and distributes school supplies for our free/reduced lunch students in the FVV school district. Bring new school supplies to Bertolet Memorial Library now through August 3rd. Markers, glue, calculators, lunch bags, backpacks, and more are all needed to help these students start the school year off on the right track!

Distribution will be held in Forreston.

Adult Summer Reading is here!

Sign up today 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.

Spice of the Month Garlic: This month’s spice also dates back to ancient empires and can be found in many forms today.

Stop by the desk to grab a sample of garlic powder and new recipes to try!

July Book of the Month In Winter Garden by Kristen Hannah, Meredith and Nina Whitson are the daughters of Anya whom they cannot connect with and always feel like they are coming up short. As their father lays dying, he makes the daughters promise to listen to Anya’s fairy tale, a story that they grew up with, all the way to the end. As the girls listen, they start to view their mom differently. Stop by the circulation desk and

Adventures in STEAM Mondays, July 7th July 28th @ 3:00 pm.

Calling all 1st graders and older! Join us as we explore topics in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through books, experiments, and other projects. Old clothes are recommended for this program.

Color Our World Summer Program Wednesdays at 10:00 am. June 11th - July 23rd.

All kids from 3 years old through 5th grade are invited to join us for 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!

Community Room

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

BERTOLET PUBLIC LIBRARY

FORRESTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

OCL B JULY 21.indd 3

(COURTESY PHOTO)

Patrons were treated to some toe tapping blues music courtesy of Wheatbread Johnson of the Crossroads Blues Society.

pick up a copy today.

July Take & Make Craft Stop by to pick up a kit to make a Rainbow Jellyfish.

It goes perfectly with Color Our World!

Community Puzzle You made it! The fireworks puzzle was completed! We will have a new puzzle out the next time you stop it.

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 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 The Stellar Debut of Galactia MacFee by Alexander McCall Smith (LP) The Death Mask by Iris Johansen A Mother’s Love by Danielle Steel Chapter Book Sea Otter Sunrise by Mary Pope Osborne Picture Book Every Monday Mabel

by Jashar Awan DVD Yellowstone Season 5, Part 2

Installation of NEW Blacktop ¿ Parking Lots & Driveways Call For ¿ Commercial & Residential Your FREE ¿ Driveway Additions Estimate ¿ Blacktop Repairs/Patching ¿ Sealcoating/Crack Filling ¿

R

For All Your Blacktop and Sealcoat Needs Serving Ogle, Boone & Winnebago County for over 36 years

815-234-4171 815-234-2225 or

Premium Hardwood • Designer Colored Mulches Pulverized Dirt • Mushroom Compost • Straw Bales Delivery Available 06162025

www.kingblacktop.com

3499 E Tower Rd PO Box 652 Byron, IL 61010

7/17/25 12:44 PM

SECTION B • PAGE 4 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025 Whatever you’re looking for, these local businesses ask you to consider them first.

Jeanette Heesaker, CPA

Masters in Business Administration and Finance Certified Managerial Accountant Accounting and Tax Services For Business/Individual/Partnership 132 W. Second St., Suite 1 • Byron, IL 61010

(815) 234-8100

ASPHALT

AIR CONDITIONING

ACCOUNTING

HEATING

AIR CONDITIONING Accredited Business

Gaul’s Climate Control Randy Gaul 815-946-2386

815-734-7314

STRIPING • REPAIRS • HAND-APPLIED SEALER/NO SPRAYING PROMPT • RELIABLE • REASONABLE • Free Estimates Still family owned & operated

Nathan Tilbury Byron (815) 234-SEAL(7325)

604 N. Division Polo, Illinois 61046

CABINETS

AUTO REPAIR

AUTO & TIRE

Hank's Repair Hank Kaiser-Owner ASE Certified

P.O. Box 31 54 Stephenson St. German Valley, IL 61039

815-946-3033

Cell ph. 815-238-5144 Fax ph. 815-362-2316

Bus. ph. 815-362-3451

CARPET CLEANING

3-D Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

900 W. Washington St. Oregon, IL 61061

COMPLETE SEPTIC SERVICE

CONCRETE

CONSTRUCTION

FIREWOOD

Heather Ruchti Ph: (815) 762-5307

CONCRETE

Mark Miller Construction For All Your Building Needs!

Commercial/Residential Work

SERVING OGLE COUNTY FOR OVER 30 YEARS • New Construction • Roofing • Windows • Additions • Complete Remodeling • Siding • Painting • Interior/Exterior • Drywall • Flooring • Decks Free Estimates • Lead Certified

815-761-1626

HAIR CARE

AT’s Firewood 815-751-2255 All Hardwoods, Seasoned, Delivered, Stacked

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HANDYMAN

Insured

FREE ESTIMATES

Storage - Lawncare - Plowing - Painting - Handyman - Oil Changes - Brakes

New Construction • Complete Remodels • Additions • Windows Doors • Sunrooms • Kitchens • Basements • Baths • Garages Dan Houston 815.871.5748 • Craig Kosch 815.566.7424

www.integrityhomeimp.com

MATTRESS

PAINTING

K & J DECORATING, INC.

WALLPAPER

PAINTING

FREE ESTIMATES

815-758-4320

Jason Conderman • Sr. Store Manager

2395 Sycamore Rd • DeKalb, IL • 60115 mattressfirm.com

Ken

Over 40 Years Experience Cell (815) 353-5754 NO JOB TOO SMALL! Stillman Valley, IL

Contact person: 815-440-4779 Pam Wright

OCL B JULY 21.indd 4

SOLAR ENERGY

STORAGE SHEDS

Dun Wright Grooming

• Cut of Your Choice (depends on coat condition) • Specialty/Flea Baths Available • Bath/Hand Blow-Drying/Toe Nails Clipped

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Insured

by

• Pets Groomed at Your Home • Less Stress on Yourself and Your Pet • No More “Separation” Anxiety • No More Day-Long Waits for Pets

PAINTING

Specializing in painting or staining kitchen cabinets or woodwork.

PET GROOMING

MOBILE GROOMING

STAINING

We Fro Delive m r!

To Y Our L ot our Site

E ion FRE valuat p. E Site e R r s u Sale At Yo

We Specialize in Portable/Quality Built Storage Sheds • Stock & Custom Design • Many Options Available

• Competitive Pricing • Site Preparation Available

See Displays at 3500 S. Chana Rd. Chana IL 61015 Call Norm or Albert for Free Literature packet

779.861.3542

7/17/25 12:44 PM

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION B • PAGE 5

Whatever you’re looking for, these local businesses ask you to consider them first.

TREE CARE

Serving Ogle County Since 1996

WATER SOFTENER

TREE SERVICE

SERVICE CALL SPECIAL

“Your Trees Deserve a Certified Arborist!”

$

Offer Expires 4/30/20 We Service All Makes & Models. Test & check.

• Trimming & Removals • Climbing Specialists • Insect & Disease Control • Planting Service • Arborist Consulting Fully Licensed & Insured

Over 30 Years Experience.

AFFORDABLE WATER

815-625-3426

732-4710 WHEELS

29

95 ANY BRAND

Toll Free: 877-353-7638 12212020

Wouldn’t you like your business card seen by 28,500 people?

CALL CHRIS 815-561-2125

AREA CHURCH DIRECTORY BYRON ALL SAINTS LUTHERAN CHURCH

624 Luther Drive, Byron IL 61010 815-234-5277 Pastor: Vicar Michelle Wandersee Sunday Worship Service held at 9:00 am. A recording of each Sunday’s worship service is available on our Facebook page and our website later in the day. Communion is served every Sunday. Sunday School for ages 3 through Adult is held at 10:00 am September through May. Confirmation studies for 7th and 8th grade students are held each Sunday morning at 10:00 am.

Monday afternoon Bible Study is held at 1:30 pm via Zoom. In person Bible Studies are held Tuesday evening at 7:00 pm and Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 pm. Book Club and The GATHERING meet monthly; quilters meet twice monthly. Visit our website http://www.AllSaintsByron.org or call the church office for further information.

CORNERSTONE FAMILY CHURCH

205 N. Peru St., Byron 815-234-8737 cornerstonefam ily.church Sr. Pastor: Erik Ness, NextGen/ Family Pastor: Collin Nicholls Children’s Ministry Director: Katie Dodd Worship Service on Sundays at 10am with Children ‘s Worship Service and Nursery Available Revive Jr High and Sr High Youth Ministries Meet Sundays at 6:30pm Numerous Small Groups Available for All Ages throughout the week .

Please call our Church Office or visit our website for more details .

Office Hours: 8:00am -4:30pm Mondays-Thursdays

BYRON ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH

226 E. 2nd St, Byron, IL 61010 - Phone 815-234-7431 – Fr. Richard Rosinski.

Weekday Masses: Tuesday – Friday 7:30am, Weekend Masses: Sat. 5:00 pm, Sun. 8:00 am and 9:30 am, Reconciliation: Fri. 8:00 am – 8:30 am; Sat. 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm or by app. Eucharist Adoration Fri. 8-9am www.saintmaryinbyron.org secretary@saintmaryinbyron.org

UNITED CHURCH OF BYRON

A Member of the United Church of Christ 701 W. Second Street; PO Box 927, Byron IL 61010, 815-234-8777 Email: ucb@comcast.net Website: unitedchurchofbyron.org Pastor: Rev. Tyler Spellious Youth Ministry Coordinator: Richard Simpson Sunday Schedule & Worship opportunities: Service of Meditation & Prayer: 8:15am- 8:45am Adult Sunday School Hour: 9am Kids Sunday School: (for ages 3 thru 5th grade) during the 10:30 worship Coffee & fellowship time: 10:00am - 10:30am Main Worship: 10:30am Spark Youth Group (for ages 6th grade thru 12th grade) - Sundays, 5pm-7pm For complete ministry schedule and other activities, please check our website or Facebook page or contact the church office.

Whoever you are or wherever you are on your journey, you are welcome here!

BEACON HILL ASSEMBLY OF GOD

“Building Faith for Life” 6467 N. German Church Rd., Byron, IL - Ph. (815) 246-2685 - beaconhillbyron.org Mailing Address: P.O. Box 448, Byron, IL 61010 Pastor: Gary Cortese Service Times: Sundays at 10AM; Wednesday night Faith-Lift at 6:30PM Find us on Facebook/Beacon Hill Assembly of God

CHANA CHANA UNITED METHODIST

Pastor Josh Brown, 606 Main Street, Chana, IL 61015. Church office 815-732-7683.

(E-mail address: chanaumc@gmail.com Adult & Children’s Education 9:00 a.m.

Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion celebrated the first Sunday of each month. At Chana Church you will find Open Hearts-Open Minds-Open Doors.

DIXON LOST LAKE COMMUNITY CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE Pastor Bob Clardie 815-535-6990 90 W. Flagg Road Dixon IL 61021

8:30am Sunday School 9:30am Church Service www.lostlakechurch.org

FORRESTON FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH

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

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FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

402 First Ave., Forreston, IL Phone: 815-938-2380 Worship at 9:00 a.m. (childcare provided) with coffee and fellowship immediately following. Sunday School Age 3-Adult, 10:15 am.

God is Good, All the Time, All the Time, God is Good!

ST. JAMES LUTHERAN CHURCH

Celebrating 175 Years!

West Grove Rd. At Columbine Rd. Worship Service 10:30 am. Communion is served every Sunday.

“Singing the Song of Christian Faith in Worship, Service, Learning, Outreach and Welcome” in a beautiful rural setting.

Everyone is cordially invited to be with us.

Follow Us on Facebook “St. James Lutheran Church”

LEAF RIVER ADELINE ZION EVANGELICAL CHURCH

9106 Cedar St. in Adeline, Leaf River, IL 61047 • Ph:815-541-4863 Sunday Services: Sunday School 9:00 am, Worship Service 10:15 am VISITORS WELCOME

LEAF RIVER BAPTIST CHURCH

Pastor Billy Hardy Sunday Morning: 9:30am Bible Classes for all ages 10:30am Worship Service with nursery available. Live stream available at leafriver.church/live-now 6941 N. Mt. Morris Rd., Leaf River, IL 61047 815-738-2205 leafriverbc@gmail.com leafriver.church

LINDENWOOD IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH – LCMS

immanuel-lindenwood.org (for sermons, events, etc.)

16060 E. Lindenwood Road, Lindenwood, IL 61049 815-393-4500 • office@immanuel-lindenwood.org Sunday Mornings: Divine Service @ 9am; Food & Fellowship @ 10am; Sunday School and Adult Bible Study @ 10:30am Food Bank: 1st and 3rd Saturdays, 9am-12pm Pastor: Rev. Dr. Matthew Rosebrock pastor@immanuel-lindenwood.org

LINDENWOOD UNION CHURCH

101 N Galena st, P.O box 67, Lindenwood IL Regular worship service Sundays at 10:00am with fellowship following.

Tuesdays 10:00 am Sr Exercise! Lunch afterwards. Thursdays 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Library time. Snacks and coffee.

Everyone is welcome!

KINGS ELIM REFORMED CHURCH

140 S. Church Road, Kings, IL 61068 • Pastor Marv Jacobs Phone 815-562-6811 E-mail: goelimchurch@gmail.com Website: www.goelimchurch.org Sunday morning worship 10:00 am

MOUNT MORRIS DISCIPLES UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

“By God’s grace in Christ, we LIVE, LOVE, and SERVE” All are welcome here!

9:30 a.m. – Sunday Worship with Communion open to all, followed by fellowship hour 10:45 a.m. Sunday School (Sep. – May) 102 N. Maple Ave., Mt. Morris, IL 61054 815-734-4853 secretary@disciplesumc.org www.disciplesumc.org Pastor Marcia Peddicord

EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH OF MT. MORRIS

102 S. Seminary Ave., Mt. Morris, IL 61054 815-734-4942 www.efcmm.org Senior Pastor: Bruce McKanna. Sunday Schedule: 8:30 a.m. Sunday School for all ages. 9:30 a.m. Coffee Fellowship. 10:00 a.m. Morning Worship with Childcare and Children’s Church.

MOUNT MORRIS MT. MORRIS CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN

409 W. Brayton Road, Mt. Morris, IL 61045 Phone 815-734-4573 Pastor-Rodney Caldwell. Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. followed by fellowship time and Sunday School. Worship service available online, call for details.

Email: mtmorriscob@gmail.com

MT. MORRIS TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH

308 E. Brayton Rd. Mt. Morris, IL Phone: 734-6354 Rev. Josh Ehrler Worship Services: Saturday 5:30 PM; Worship Sunday 9:30 AM . Sunday Church School - follows Worship Service (Sept.-May) Chime Choir Wednesday 6:00 PM

OREGON EAST OREGON CHAPEL CHURCH OF GOD

East Oregon Chapel Church of God The Sharing is Caring Church EOCCOGministries@gmail.com 107 N Daysville Rd. Oregon, IL Phone: 815-732-2960 Sunday School 9:30 a.m. with Sunday Worship following at 10:30 a.m.

Breakfast is served every fifth Sunday beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Wednesday evenings both Adults & Youth (during the school year) meet weekly beginning at 6:30 p.m.

In the event that Oregon Schools are not in session the Youth group does not meet on Wednesdays.

We look forward to meeting you!

EBENEZER REFORMED CHURCH

2997 N. German Church Rd., 815-732-6313 3 miles east of Oregon on Rt. #64 then 2 miles north on German Church Rd. • Rev. Josiah Youngquist www.EBENEZERREFORMED.com • Sunday school 9:00 a.m. Worship 10:00 a.m.

LIGHTHOUSE UNITED METHODIST

Pastor Dave Rogula 4962 S. Daysville Rd., Oregon, IL 61061 lighthouseUMC@ yahoo.com Worship at 11:00 a.m. Holy Communion celebrated the first Sunday of each of month. Lighthouse will lite up your life!

LITTLE PRAIRIE MENNONITE CHURCH

1831 S Harmony Rd. Oregon, IL 61061 Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Morning, 7:00 PM 1st & 3rd Sunday Evening, 7:30 PM 2nd & 4th Wednesday Evenings of the Month.

Pastor: Norman Reinford 779-861-3700

OREGON CHURCH OF GOD

860 W. Oregon Trail Road Oregon, IL Phone: 732-6847 or 732-2604 Pastor Michael Hoffman; Sunday School, 9:15 a.m.; Morning worship, 10:30 a.m.; Wednesday activities: Adult, Children, and Youth Groups 7 p.m. At the church.

OREGON FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

505 Hill St. Oregon, IL 61061 Phone: 732-2642 Pastor: David Snow “A Christ-centered, Bible-believing, family-oriented ministry.”

Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Sunday Morning Service 10:45 a.m.; Sunday Afternoon Service 1:15 p.m.; Wednesday Night Bible Study 7:00 p.m.

OREGON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

200 S. 4th Street, Oregon, IL 61061 | 815-732-2994 | www.oregonumc.org Pastor Rev Megan Smick 9:00 am Adult & Youth Bible Study 10 am Worship & Children’s Sunday School In-person or live on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OregonUMC 5:30 pm Wednesday Night Meal All are welcome!

RIVERSTONE CHRISTIAN CHURCH

609 S. 10th Street , Oregon, IL 61061 Pastor Craig Arnold ~ 812-236-1213 Sunday Service @ 10:45 AM ~ contemporary style worship with coffee and doughnuts in our cafe! Online worship is also available via Facebook.

We believe in sharing Communion every Sunday as an act of worship.

RiverKids Service @ 10:45 AM for nursery-6th grade ~ provides a safe and fun environment where kids can learn about who God is and who they are because of Him. Encounter Youth Ministry for kids in 7th-12th grade meets on Sunday afternoons.

Please see our Facebook page for scheduled dates and times.

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

ST. BRIDE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

1000 Highway 64, West (Hwy 64 W & Mongan Drive on Liberty Hill), Oregon 732-7211 – Office Rev. Eldred George Webpage: saintbrides.org • E-mail:saint.bride.church@gmail.com Worship Services: Sunday 10 am Holy Communion with Hymns Christian Education Available

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH, NALC

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

POLO CHURCH OF THE OPEN BIBLE

302 S. Franklin Ave., Polo, Illinois • 815-946-2848 • Luke N. Schier, Pastor Sunday Worship: 9:30am We include our children in our Sunday Worship Experience. “”THE GRAND Kids Class” Ages 3-10 are then dismissed right after Praise & Worship. Blended Services. “Passion for God” “Compassion for People” Visit our website: PoloOpenBible.org

CROSSROADS COMMUNITY CHURCH ~ POLO CAMPUS

Meeting Sundays @ 10AM Service 205 N. Jefferson Avenue, Polo ~ 815.837.5255 polo@crossroadscn.com We offer contemporary worship and relevant Bible teaching through engaging messages and powerful video. Join us after services for coffee, snacks & fellowship. Kidzlink Children’s Ministry (nursery-5th grade) ~ during 10AM service Crave Youth Group (6th-12th grade) ~Wed. 6:30PM - June 1st .

Visit our website: www.crossroadscn.com

FAITH DISCOVERY CHURCH

801 W. Oregon St., Polo • 815-946-3588 • Jeremy Heller, Pastor Sunday School 9:00 a.m., Worship Service 10:00 a.m., Nursery Available, Wednesday Bible Study 7:00 p.m. We Are an independent non-denominational Christian church. Visitors are always welcome.

STILLMAN VALLEY RED BRICK CHURCH OF STILLMAN VALLEY

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

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

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

Men, women, youth Bible Studies throughout the year.

See website for all activities or contact the church office.

KISHWAUKEE COMMUNITY EVANGELICAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

8195 Kishwaukee Road, Stillman Valley, IL 61084 / 815-965-1940 Rev. Nick Garner, Pastor www.kishchurch.org Sunday Schedule: Discipleship Hour 9:00 AM, Coffee Fellowship 11:15 AM Gathered Worship 10:00 AM For complete ministry schedule check out our website or call the church office.

VALLEY EVANGELICAL COVENANT CHURCH

Lead Pastor Barry Norris 103 S Maple St, Stillman Valley, IL 815-645-8872 | www.valleycov.org Sunday Morning 9am ‘Gather’ for learning & conversation, 10:15am Worship both onsite and online at facebook.com/VECCfSV Home of Valley Covenant Preschool 815-645-8882 Director Jill Huber Bible Studies, Youth Group, Bread of Life Food Pantry Please visit website for more information or contact the church office M-F 9am-2pm

WINNEBAGO MIDDLE CREEK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

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

Pastor Phil Thompson Phone: 815-335-2609. Email: middlecreekchurch@gmail.com

7/17/25 12:44 PM

SECTION B • PAGE 6 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

ROCK RIVER CENTER ACTIVITIES

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.

RUMMIKUB Mondays -12:15 – 3:15 p.m.

FREE LINE DANC-

DIRECTORY OF AREA HUMAN SERVICES Alcohol Abuse Counseling & Recovery A.A. Hotline Sinnissippi Centers, Inc. Oregon Rochelle

800-452-7990 732-3157 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

732-1301

Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County P.O. Box 628 Oregon, IL 61061

Mental Health

Family Counseling Services Sinnissippi Centers, Inc. Oregon Rochelle The Serenity Shed Grief Services

Senior Citizens Services

Hub City Senior Center Mt Morris Senior & Community Center Polo Senior Center Rock River Center Oregon, IL

815-222-8869

ING Tuesdays & Thursdays – 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.

WOOD CARVERS Tuesdays – 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS Tuesdays – 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

MEXICAN TRAIN DOMINOES Wednesdays - 9:30 11:00 a.m.

MICHIGAN RUMMY Wednesdays – 12:30 – 3:15 p.m.

BUILDING THE ULTIMATE SALAD BOWL JULY 29. 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Registration and Payment required by July 24.

Veteran’s Assistance The Veteran’s Service Officer serves Veterans of all ages and assists them with applications and other benefits available to them.

Your VSO will now be serving you at: 1001 Pines Road; Oregon, Illinois; Fridays from 9:00 am – 3:00 p.m. By Appointment Only. To schedule your appointment, please call 815633-8266 or 217-836-65 Benefit Access Program The Benefit Access Program allows you to get

a discount on your license plate sticker. The cost of your sticker could be as low as $10.00. To qualify, you must meet income guidelines as follows: You must be 65 years of age or older by December 31 of the current year; or you must be 16 years of age or older and totally disabled before January 1 of this year. Your annual income* must be less than: $33,562 for a 1-person household; $44,533 for a 2-person household; $55,500 for a 3-person household. You must live in Illinois at the time you file your application.

Property Tax Assessment Freeze This exemption “freezes” your assessed value at a certain level and base year, depending on what year you originally applied.

Your future real estate tax bills are calculated at this “frozen” assessed value, thereby slowing the increase of your property taxes. You must re-apply for this exemption every year. Although your assessed value is frozen under this exemption, tax bills can continue to increase if spending by any of the local units of government

(like schools, cities, parks, etc.) goes up. Also, please be aware that you may, later in the year, receive a “change of assessment notice” if the township assessor has re-evaluated your property. This will in no way affect your status under this senior assessment freeze exemption.

Real estate taxes are calculated on your “frozen” assessed value. To qualify, you must meet guidelines as follows: You must be 65 or older, own and use the property as your principal residence. Your total income, and the income of any other individuals using the property as their principal residence, must be less than $65,000.

Homestead 65 This annual exemption is available for a single-family property that is occupied as the principal residence of a person, who is 65 years of age or older during the assessment year. The person must be the owner, or a lessee with an ownership interest in the property who is liable for the payment of the property taxes. The amount of the exemption is a $5,000 reduction in the EAV of the property.

962-5585 732-3157 562-3801 732-2499

562-5050 734-6335 946-3818 732-3252 800-541-5479

Sexual Assault/Abuse

Rockford Sexual Assault Counseling 24-hour hotline 412 W Washington, Oregon

Therapeutic

Pegasus Special Riders

Veterans’ Services

Ogle County Veteran’s Assistance Veteran’s Crisis Line Rock River Center Serenity Hospice and Home Medical Transportation

636-9811 732-0000 (COURTESY PHOTO)

973-3177

815-255-9181 988 then press 1 732-3252 732-2499 677-6515

Wellness Services

Ogle County Health Dept 907 Pines Rd, Oregon 510 Lincoln Hwy, Rochelle Serenity Hospice and Home

OCL B JULY 21.indd 6

562-6976 562-6976 732-2499

The Oregon Park District is excited to announce the recent installation of AstroTurf in the batting cage at Park West, enhancing the facility for both high school athletes and local residents.

New batting cage turf installed at Park West OREGON — The Oregon Park District is excited to announce the recent installation of AstroTurf in the batting cage at Park West, enhancing the facility for both high school athletes and local residents.

This improvement project was made possible through a 50/50 funding partnership between the Oregon Park District and Oregon High School Girls Softball.

By working together, both organizations were able to invest in a valuable amenity

that will benefit the community for years to come.

The installation was completed by Oregon Park District Parks staff, ensuring a high-quality and cost-effective addition to the facility.

The new turf provides a durable and consistent surface for training, improving safety and playability for users.

“We are excited to bring this upgrade to Park West,” said Erin Folk, executive director. “The partnership with OHS Girls Softball allowed us to make this project

a reality, and we’re proud to offer a better training space for athletes and residents alike.”

The batting cage at Park West is open to both the high school teams and the general public, providing a great space for softball and baseball players of all ages to practice, train, and improve their skills.

For more information about Park West amenities or other Oregon Park District projects, visit www. oregonpark.org.

7/17/25 12:44 PM

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION B • PAGE 7

Polo Lions Club participates in Polo’s Town & Country Days Parade On Sunday, June 29 the Polo Lions Club participated in Polo’s Town & Country Days Parade. The Lions Club passed out candy and also enjoyed interacting with community that was watching the parade. (Courtesy photos)

Stillman Bank holds annual community food drive

STILLMAN VALLEY – In conjunction with Stillman Bank’s 143 rd anniversary, the bank held a food drive to benefit area families this summer. Nearly 1,000 non-perishable food items were collected during the one-and-ahalf-week event.

The Community Food Drive kicked off at all Stillman Bank locations on Monday, June 9 and continued through Friday, June 20. Donations were made to several area food pantries including: Bread of Life Pantry in Stillman Valley, Lifeline Food & Self-Help Project in Oregon, Old Stone Church Food Pantry in Rockton, People Helping People in Byron, Rochelle Christian Food

Pantry in Rochelle, and Rock River Valley Pantry in Rockford.

In addition to their Community Food Drive, they also recently hosted an employee “Casual Day for Local Food Pantries” fundraiser! All Stillman Bank employees were encouraged to make a monetary donation in exchange for casual dress.

Employee donations for the day totaled $546 and all six local food pantries above received $91.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by Stillman Bank to contribute to this great cause. For more information on Stillman Bank or to find out more about Stillman’s products and services, please visit www.stillmanbank. com.

(COURTESY PHOTO)

In conjunction with Stillman Bank’s 143rd anniversary, the bank held a food drive to benefit area families this summer.

Stillman Bank is an independently owned community bank founded

in 1882.

The bank has approximately $595 million

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815-895-4720

Be included in the Antiques & Collectibles spotlight!

Call: Christel Ackland 815-561-2153 Chris Grimm 815-561-2125

OCL B JULY 21.indd 7

7/17/25 12:45 PM

SECTION B • PAGE 8 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

JULIA HULL DISTRICT LIBRARY Seed Library Discover the joy of gardening with our NEW seed library! Borrow, grow and share from a diverse selection of seeds, and help cultivate sustainability and biodiversity in our community…one seed at a time!

March 1-October 31.

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! ALL AGES. May 26 – Aug 2.

Preschool Playdate Preschool storytime is taking a short summer vacation. In the meantime, you can join us each Wednesday at 10 a.m. 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: 815645-8611.

Library Closure The library will be closed Monday, July 28 – Friday, Aug. 1 for annual cleaning.

No library materials will be due during the closure; however, the outside drop box will be open during the closure. The library will be open normal summer hours Saturday, Aug. 2 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

(COURTESY PHOTOS)

Last week, at Julia Hull District Library, adult crafters joined Joanna to design their own one-of-a-kind mosaic featuring various sizes and shapes of seashells.

Tween Scene: Trivia Come test your knowledge on books, movies, games and more while munching on snacks and laughing with friends.

Tuesday, Aug. 5, 6 p.m.

Ages 10-13. Registration required: 815-645-8611.

Toddler Time: Water Bins A splashing good time!

Beat the summer heat and join us on the library lawn for water play featuring a variety of sensory bins.

Dress to get wet. Friday, Aug. 8, 10 a.m. Ages 1-4.

Registration required: 815-645-8611.

Introduction to Composting Turn yard and kitchen waste into organic

matter to use as a soil amendment, mulch and potting soil! Join Master Gardener, Phil Bratta, as he presents the ins and outs of composting: what materials to use, types of composting systems and benefits. Thursday, Aug. 21, 6 p.m. Adults.

Registration required: 815-645-8611.

Adult Craft: Rocky Mountain Sunrise Ain’t no mountain high enough to keep us from felting the view! Design your own mountain sunrise using layered scraps of felt, finished with an embroidery hoop frame.

Monday, Aug. 11, 6 p.m.

Adults only. Registration required: 815-645-8611.

BEST OF Ogle County 2025 F O T S BE 2025

NOMINATION PHASE

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begins July 23rd at 8AM & ends August 5th at 10PM

Get ready to

NOMINATE your favorites!

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When nominating people, please be sure to include the name of the company they work for so we can verify they are in Ogle County and we are able to notify winners.

(Ex. Best Bartender Jane Smith - Cheer’s)

Brought to you by:

M A llness

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vis ly C a D mi LL Fa alth He

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*Nominations NOT in Ogle County will not be accepted

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7/17/25 12:45 PM

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION B • PAGE 9

LOCAL NEWS

OGLE COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT

OREGON — On June 23 at 7:39 a.m., Deputies responded to the intersection of N. Freeport Rd. and W. U.S. Rte. 52 in reference to a two-vehicle accident. Upon arrival, Deputies determined that a 2024 Honda HR-V driven

by Casimir Pawlowski, age 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, age 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 passenger 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 Mount Morris Fire Department, Polo Fire Department, Forreston Fire Department, and Dabney’s Towing. All subjects are presumed innocent.

On June 23 at 6:19 a.m. hours, the Ogle County Sheriff ’s Deputies responded to the intersection of E. IL. Rte. 38 and S. Mulford Rd. in regards to a two-vehicle accident.

Upon arrival, Officers determined that a 2008 GMC Envoy driven by Aaron Carlston, age 34, Loves Park, had stopped for the stop sign for southbound traffic. Carlston then entered onto Rte. 38 in to the path of a 2007 Honda Civic driven

by Callie M Ackland, age 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.

All subjects presumed innocent.

On June 25 at 6:36 p.m. hours, Deputies, with the assistance of the Byron Police Department, conducted a traffic stop at Kishwaukee Road and Illinois Route 72. After a brief investigation, Deputies arrested Sheyanne Dahlberg, age 29 of Dixon, for an outstanding Winnebago County warrant for domestic battery. Dahlberg was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond. A passenger, Daniel Marlow, age 32 of

OCL B JULY 21.indd 9

Rockford, was issued a citation for possession of adult use cannabis outside of an approved container by a passenger. All subjects are presumed innocent.

On June 25 at 10:40 p.m., Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 5,000 block of North Illinois Route 251. After a brief investigation, Deputies arrested Muzaliwa Puka, age 40 of Rockford, for driving while license suspended.

Puka was transported to the Ogle County Jail, processed, and released with a notice to appear at a later date. Puka was also issued citations for speeding and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. All subjects are presumed innocent.

On June 27 at approximately 7:30 p.m., Deputies along with Stillman Valley Fire/EMS responded to the 11,000 block of East Illinois Route 72 in Stillman Valley in response to a two-vehicle accident.

After an investigation, Deputies determined an eastbound vehicle, operated by Michael J. Mack, age 59, of Clarendon Hills, had entered the oncoming lane and struck a westbound vehicle, operated by Daniel A. Diaz, age 27, of Stillman Valley. Mack was treated for minor injuries at the scene by members of the Stillman Valley Fire Department. Mack was issued a citation for Improper Lane Usage. All subjects are presumed innocent.

On June 27 at 7:05 a.m., Ogle County Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 700 block of W Blackhawk Drive in Byron, IL. As a result, deputies arrested David S Fant age 45, of Leaf River IL, for Driving

While License Suspended, Possession of Controlled Substance (Crack Cocaine), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Fant was additionally issued citations for Expired Registration, and Improper Display of Registration.

Fant was transported to the Ogle County Jail and released on a Notice to Appear. All suspects are presumed innocent.

On June 28 at 4:22 p.m., Ogle County Deputies with the assistance of Byron Police Department and Byron Fire Department, responded to a two vehicle crash at North Illinois Route 2 and North River Drive, Byron.

After a brief investigation it was determined a northbound vehicle driven by Natalie Weaver, age 18, of Winnebago, struck the rear of another northbound vehicle driven by Joshua Zadravetz, age 40, of Byron. Occupants of both vehicles were assessed and treated at the scene.

Weaver was transported to an area hospital with injuries. Weaver was issued a citation for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident.

All subjects are presumed innocent.

On June 28 at 5:54 a.m. hours, the Ogle County Sheriff’s Deputies conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of IL RT 251 and IL RT 64. As a result, Jesus Mercado, age 38, of Rockford, was taken into custody for Driving While License Revoked and transported to the Ogle County Jail. He was also issued citations for suspended registration and no vehicle insurance.

He was processed and then released with a July

court date. All subjects presumed innocent.

On June 28 at 6 p.m., Deputies responded to the 7,000 block of N. Perryville Rd for a single vehicle accident. After investigation, Morris A. Dunk, Age 85 of Rockford, was arrested for driving with no valid license. Dunk was released on a notice to appear with a future court date from the scene, and transported by EMS for further evaluation.

Dunk was additionally cited for no insurance and unsafe backing in a roadway.

Deputies were assisted on scene by Monroe Center and Stillman Valley EMS. All subjects are presumed innocent.

On June 29 at 4:14 p.m., Deputies responded to the 3000 block of West Illinois Route 64 for the report of a disturbance. After an investigation, Jeremy W Miller, age 40 of Mount Morris, was placed under arrest for disorderly conduct and criminal damage to property. Miller was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was held pending an appearance before a judge. All subjects are presumed innocent.

On June 29 at 3:31 p.m. hours, deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 5000 block of N Leaf River Road. As a result, deputies arrested Megan A Hall age 38, of Freeport IL, for Driving While License Revoked. Hall was transported to the Ogle County Jail and released on a Notice to Appear with a future court date. All suspects are presumed innocent.

On June 30 at 11:31 a.m., Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 7000 block of N. Kishwaukee Road. Af-

ter investigation, Deputies placed Jose Antonio-Diaz, age 31 of Rockford under arrest for No Valid Driver’s License. Antonio-Diaz was additionally issued a citation for a Mufflers violation. Antonio-Diaz was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was released on a Notice to Appear and given a future court date. All suspects are presumed innocent.

On July 1 at 10:50 p.m., Deputies conducted a traffic stop at Canal Street and Illinois Route 2. After a brief investigation, Deputies arrested James Rodriguez, age 54 of Dixon, for driving while license revoked and an Ogle County warrant. Rodriguez was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held pending an appearance before a judge. Rodriguez was also issued citations for operating an uninsured vehicle, suspended registration, and illegal transportation of alcohol by driver. A passenger, Vonna Benhoff, age 56 of Dixon, was also issued a citation for illegal transportation of alcohol by passenger. All subjects are presumed innocent.

On July 7 at 3:57 p.m., Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 600 block of Colfax Street in Byron. After investigation, Deputies placed Pricillia Beasley, age 40 of Rockford, under arrest for Driving While License Suspended and an active Ogle County FTA traffic warrant. Beasley was additionally issued citations for expired registration, suspended registration, and operating an uninsured vehicle. Beasley was transported to the Ogle County Jail where she was

released on a Notice to Appear on all the citations and was held in lieu of bond on the warrant. All suspects are presumed innocent.

On July 2 at 2:33 a.m., Deputies conducted a traffic stop at I-39 and E Illinois Route 64. After a brief investigation, Deputies arrested Jaden Purifoy age 22 of Rockford IL, for driving while license suspended, and an active Ogle County failure to appear warrant. Purifoy was transported to the Ogle County Jail. Purifoy was issued a notice to appear for driving while license suspended. Purifoy was held on the warrant pending bail. Purifoy was additionally issued citations for speeding, expired registration, suspended registration, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. All subjects are presumed innocent.

On July 3 at 8:43 a.m., deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 6000 block of N German Church Road.

As a result, deputies arrested Brett J Russell age 55, of Rockford IL, for Driving/Never Issued License.

Russell was additionally issued a citation for No Front Registration. Russell was released on a Notice to Appear with a future court date. All suspects are presumed innocent.

See SHERIFF page 10

7/17/25 12:45 PM

SECTION B • PAGE 10 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

OGLE COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT From page 9 On July 3 at 1:56 p.m. deputies conducted a motorist assist in the area of West Henry Road and South Union Road in rural Polo. After a brief investigation, the driver of the vehicle, Levi Zekoff, 25, of Genoa, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance-cocaine. Zekoff was transported to the Ogle County Jail to be processed and released on a notice to appear court date.

On July 3 at 8:08 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of East Illinois Route 38 and County Line Road. After an investigation, Tyler N. Gaye, 21, of Malta, was placed under arrest for driving while license suspended. Gaye was released on a notice to appear with a future court date.

On July 3 at approximately 10:07 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of West Washington Street and West Oregon Trail Road in Oregon. After an investigation, Torye Green, 35, of Mt. Morris, was placed under arrest for driving while license suspended. Green was transported to the Ogle County Jail and released on a notice to appear with a return court date.

On July 4 at approximately 12:11 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop at Illinois Route 72 and Illinois Route 251. After an investigation, deputies arrested Victor Santiago Munoz, 40, of DeKalb, for driving while his license was revoked.

Munoz was also issued a citation for speeding. Munoz was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.

On July 4 at approximately 1:51 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of North Illinois Route 2 and North Jeffrey Lane. After investigation, deputies placed Luther Cassell, 36 of Sterling, under arrest for driving while license suspended.

Cassell was released on a notice to appear and given a future court date.

On July 4 at 5:22 p.m. deputies, with the assistance of the Byron Police Department, conducted a traffic stop in the 11,000 block of North Illinois Route 2. After a brief investigation, Deputies arrested Norma West, 38, of Freeport, for driving while license suspended.

West was released with a notice to appear.

On July 4 at approximately 7:51 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 400 block of East Third Street, Leaf River. After an investigation, deputies

OCL B JULY 21.indd 10

placed Johnathan Swanson, 46, of Leaf River, under arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol, driving while license suspended, aggravated driving under the influence, and an active Stephenson County failure to appear-driving under the influence warrant. Swanson was additionally cited for operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Swanson was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was issued a notice to appear for the traffic offenses and held in lieu of bond on the Stephenson County warrant.

On July 5 at approximately 2:25 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 6,000 block of North Illinois Route 251. After investigation, deputies placed Amanda Nuckles, 32, Rochelle, under arrest for driving while license suspended. Nuckels was given a notice to appear at a future court date and released on scene.

On July 5 at approximately 12:12 a.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 3,000 block of North Mount Morris Road. After an investigation, deputies placed Riley Baker, 21, of Sterling, under arrest for driving while license suspended. Baker was given a notice to appear at a future court date and released on scene.

On July 5 at approximately 6:06 a.m. Deputies responded to the 4,000 block of North Meridian Road, Stillman Valley, for a single-vehicle crash with unknown injuries.

After a brief investigation, deputies determined that a silver Mitsubishi was traveling northbound on Meridian Road, when the driver, Steven R. Barron, 49, of Stillman Valley, lost control of the vehicle and entered the eastside ditch.

The Mitsubishi traveled in the eastside ditch, striking a gate and fence post, before striking a utility pole and coming to a rest. Barron was placed under arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol. Barron was additionally cited for operating an uninsured motor vehicle, failure to reduce speed, improper lane usage, and illegal transportation or possession of alcoholic liquor by driver in motor vehicle.

Barron was transported to SwedishAmerican Hospital for suspected minor injuries and released on a notice to appear with a future court date. Deputies were assisted by the Stillman Valley Fire Department.

On July 5 at 6:51 p.m. deputies responded to the 6,000 block of Oak Drive, Byron. After a brief investigation, deputies arrested, Robert Sund, 89, of Byron, for possession of firearm

without a valid FOID. Sund was released with a notice to appear.

On July 5 at approximately 8:03 p.m. deputies responded to the 400 block of East Third Street, Leaf River for the report of a domestic disturbance. After an investigation, Diane Balcom, 59, of Leaf River, was arrested for domestic battery. Balcom was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held pending an appearance before a judge.

On July 6 at approximately 5:53 p.m. deputies responded to a two-vehicle accident at the intersection of East Hemstock Road and South Kings Road. After a brief investigation, Deputies determined that a Ford Focus, driven by a 15-yearold juvenile, was stopped at the stop sign on South Kings Road. The 15-year-old juvenile pulled out into the intersection in the path of a Chevrolet Impala, driven

by Dustin M. Hutcherson, 38, of Rochelle. Hutcherson struck the front of the Ford, causing both vehicles to enter opposite sides of the ditch. The 15-year-old juvenile was transported to Rochelle Community Hospital by the Rochelle Fire Department for suspected minor injuries. Deputies were assisted by the Flagg Center Fire Department and Rochelle Fire Department.

On July 6 at approximately 10:58 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of North Illinois Route 26 and West Illinois Route 72. After an investigation, Deputies placed Terry Breeze, 61, of Baileyville, under arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol. Breeze was additionally cited for improper lane usage. Breeze was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was issued a notice to appear with a return court date.

On July 7 at approximately 12:03 a.m. deputies responded to a citizen complaint in the 8,000 block of North Hedge Road. After an investigation Jackson Bartelt, 19, of Byron, was placed under arrest for illegal consumption of alcohol. Bartelt was released on a notice to appear bond.

Deputies were assisted by Byron Fire/EMS and Byron Police.

On July 8 at approximately 9:41 a.m. deputies responded to a single-vehicle accident near the intersection of East Flagg Road and South Sweeney Road.

After a brief investigation, deputies determined that a Ford E350, driven by Kathryn E. Regnier, 37, of Elgin, drove off the roadway while traveling eastbound on East Flagg Road. The Ford then rotated sideways, went up the side of a field entrance,

became airborne, and landed, causing it to overturn twice before coming to rest upright on its wheels.

Regnier was treated by Ashton EMS on scene and transported to Rochelle Community Hospital for suspected minor injuries.

Deputies were assisted by Ashton EMS. No citations were issued.

On July 8 at around 10:29 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop in the area of East Illinois 38 and Koch Road in rural Rochelle.

After a brief investigation, Piyaphon Hardamon, 39, of Rochelle, was arrested for no valid license. Hardamon was also cited for no registration light. Hardamon was released on a notice to appear with a future court date.

On July 10 at approximately 6:56 p.m. deputies initiated a traffic stop near the intersection of Illinois Route 64 and Rock Road. After further investigation Kevin Clark, 31, of Rockford, was placed under arrest for driving while license suspended and an outstanding Rockford PD warrant. Clark was also cited for expired registration, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and no front license plate.

Clark was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was detained on the Rockford PD warrant. Clark was released on a notice to appear bond on all Ogle County charges.

On July 11 at approximately 8:10 a.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 9,000 block of West Illinois Route 64. After an investigation, Michael C. Smith, 25, of Rockford, was placed under arrest for operating a vehicle with a suspended license. Smith was also cited for speeding.

Smith was released on a notice to appear and provided a future court date.

On July 11 at 7:21p.m. deputies responded to the 10,000 block of East Illinois Route 72 for a single-vehicle accident. After an investigation, deputies determined that a black Lincoln was traveling westbound on East Illinois Route 72, when the driver, Richard A. Whitney, 79, of Byron, entered the eastbound lane before losing control and entering the south ditch.

Whitney was cited for failure to reduce speed/too fast for conditions and improper lane usage. Deputies were assisted by the Stillman Valley Fire Department.

On July 12 at approximately 4:09 p.m. deputies responded to the 17,000 block of East Illinois Route 72 in Monroe Center for a two-vehicle accident.

After an investigation, deputies determined that

a red Hyundai, driven by Amanda Irene Lee Smith, 32, of Oregon was driving eastbound. Smith made a left turn and crossed the westbound lane in front of a black Ford F150, driven

by Trenton J. Thomasson, 22, of Davis Junction, who was driving westbound. The black Ford struck the red Hyundai. Smith was cited for operating an uninsured motor vehicle and improper left turn/on-coming traffic.

Smith was also arrested on an Ogle County failure to appear warrant. Smith was transported to the Ogle County Jail, where she was detained on the Ogle County warrant.

On July 12 at 1:51 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop on North Marrill Road at the intersection with East Nordic Woods Drive. As a result, deputies arrested Donald E. Whaley, 49, of Ashton for driving while license revoked. Deputies additionally arrested a passenger, Misti D. List 43, of Leaf River on Ogle, Stephenson, and DeKalb County warrants. Whaley was additionally issued a citation for operating a motor vehicle with registration suspended. Whaley and List were both transported to the Ogle County Jail. Whaley was released on a notice to appear with a future court date. List was detained on all three warrants, pending bond and court appearances.

On July 12 at approximately 3:56 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 7,000 block of North Mt. Morris Road. After an investigation, Norma I. West, 38, of Freeport, was placed under arrest for driving while their license was suspended. West was released on a notice to appear and provided a future court date.

On July 12 at approximately 10:57 p.m. deputies responded to the 100 block of Cuyahoga Drive in Lost Lake Dixon regarding a reported domestic battery.

After an investigation, deputies placed Courtney L. Nielsen, 25, of Dixon, under arrest for domestic battery.

Nielsen was transported to the Ogle County Jail, where she is being held pending an appearance before a judge.

On July 13 at approximately 6:06 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of West Pines Road and South Lowell Park Road in rural Polo. After an investigation, deputies placed Andrew F. Emberson Sr., 52, of Polo, under arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Emberson was additionally cited for DUI-alcohol concentration in blood or breath 0.08 or more and illegal transportation or possession of alcoholic liquor by driver in motor vehicle. Emberson was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was issued a notice to appear with a return court date.

On July 14 at approximately 12:50 a.m. deputies responded to a crash with property damage located in the 300 block of Scott Avenue in Rochelle. After an investigation, deputies placed Aaron J. Vondergathen, 23, of Rochelle, under arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol. Vondergathen was additionally cited for failure to reduce speed, failure to report accident, improper lane usage, and leaving the scene of a property damage accident. Vondergathen was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was issued a notice to appear with a return court date.

On July 14 at approximately 4 p.m. deputies responded to a single-vehicle accident in the 3,800 block of West Pond Road.

Deputies spoke with the driver, Michael Merriman, 22, of Mt. Morris. Merriman advised that he was westbound on Pond Road in his Chevrolet truck when he lost control on the gravel roadway and flipped upside down in the north ditch.

Merriman and his front passenger, Shawn Merriman, 48, of Mt. Morris, refused medical attention at the scene. Leaf River Fire/EMS assisted with the accident.

All individuals are innocent until proven guilty.

7/17/25 12:45 PM

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION B • PAGE 11

Oregon Lions induct officers This past week Oregon Lions 2025-2026 officers and board members were inducted by Ronald Fruit, PDG executive director. The Oregon Lions are looking forward to another successful year serving our community. First row: Chuck Campbell, Dr. Tom Champley, Sharon Kryszak, Chuck McCort, and Ronald Fruit. Back row; Joan Smola, Jan Champley, Mark Bennett, Grant Afflerbaugh, Linda Bennett, Mike Hoff, and Carol Orn.

Ogle County 4-H general projects to be showcased

OREGON — Approximately 595 4-H project exhibits and 960 project animals will be showcased

by Ogle County’s 295 4-H club members in 12 clubs during the 2025 Ogle County Fair, Oregon, July 30-Aug. 3.

4-H Fairs are held nationally to allow youth the opportunity to exhibit projects that have resulted from in-depth yearlong studies of areas that interest them.

As part of the exhibition, non-animal exhibitors meet one-on-one with project judges to receive feedback about their displays and gather ideas for future project expansion.

Animal judging tests 4-H’ers abilities to produce, maintain, and select healthy animals with excellent breeding and market potential. Animal showmanship classes provide 4-H’ers with the opportunities to develop and refine their animal presentation skills.

At the 4-H Fair, competition exists at two levels.

4-H’ers first compete against themselves for exhibit ratings.

Every exhibit—animal or non-animal—is assigned a rating of blue, red, or white. Blue ratings are awarded to youth with entries that meet class guidelines and represent high quality work. White ratings are assigned when entries do not meet class guidelines or exhibits are of low quality. Red ribbons are assigned for exhibits falling somewhere in between.

Once ratings have been assigned, all of the blue award winners compete against one another for the chance to become class champions or overall division winners. A number of blue ribbon awarded non-animal exhibits are also selected each year to represent Ogle County 4-H at the Illinois State Fair.

Beyond the competition and learning, the Ogle

County 4-H Fair is a celebration! It marks the end of a year of youth development, club and county activities and community service, new friendships, and family building.

Many thanks go to the hundreds of 4-H leaders, helpers, fair committee members, judges, auctioneers, and supporters who make this annual educational extravaganza possible.

4-H is the youth development program of University of Illinois Extension. For information, call the Ogle County Extension Office at (815)732-2191 or visit online at https://extension.illinois.edu/bdo.

The 4-H year will begin again on Sept. 1. The fair is an excellent place to explore 4-H and decide if it might be right for your family. Youth, ages 5-18

by September 1, 2024, can join for the coming year.

You can visit various clubs to find the right fit or create your own.

Transportation Committee Meeting is July 25

SPRING VALLEY — The next Human Services Transportation Plan (HSTP) Regional Transportation Committee Meeting for Region 3 (Bureau, DeKalb, Grundy, Kendall, LaSalle, Lee, Ogle, and Putnam Counties) will be held on Friday July 25 10 a.m. at Illinois Valley Center for Independent Living (IVCIL) – 1 Les Buzz Way, Spring Valley, IL 61362. Human service organizations with an interest in public transportation

OCL B JULY 21.indd 11

are strongly encouraged to attend, as well as anyone interested in public transit.

If you would like further information, please contact via email: hstp@ncicg.org or call us at (815) 433-5830.

We will have reserved time slots available for public comment via Zoom for anyone not able to attend the meeting in person between 10:15-10:30 a.m.

If you would like to participate in public comment via Zoom during that time frame, please contact us at

(815) 433-5830 to reserve your time slot.

HSTP identifies transportation needs and develops solutions to improve transportation services for the general public.

An emphasis is placed on seniors, people with disabilities, individuals with lower incomes, and veterans. For more information about NCICG, HSTP, or if special accommodations are needed, please contact Connor Schwinn at (815) 433-5830.

Polo Women’s Club Fundraiser held at T&C Days It was a bit warm but the Polo Women’s Club Raffle Basket Fundraiser was well received by the community during Town & Country Days. 10 beautiful baskets were offered and there were nine very happy winners (one lucky ticket holder won twice). The Club will use all funds received from the raffle to help with back-toschool needs for Polo students. The Club would like to thank the following basket donors: Fresh Find Gifts in Dixon, Just 4 Fun Ice Cream, Shell Express Station Polo, Blackhawk Area Credit Union, First State Bank Shannon-Polo, O’Reilly Auto Store Dixon, and Angelo’s Pizza. (Courtesy photo)

7/17/25 12:45 PM

SECTION B • PAGE 12 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

Weekly Brain Busters

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7/17/25 12:46 PM

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

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LEGAL NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS CITY OF POLO, a Municipal Corporation, Plaintiff, v.

AHMAD FARRAJ, STERLING FEDERAL BANK, FSB, UNKNOWN OWNERS, and NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants, )) Property Addresses: 601 South Division Avenue Polo, Illinois 61064 108 South Congress Avenue Polo, Illinois 61061 211 West Mason Street Polo, Illinois 61061 212 West Mason Street Polo, Illinois 61061 No. 2025FC32 NOTICE BY PUBLICATION Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants That this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendants, praying for the foreclosure of a certain Lien recorded against the premises described as follows, to-wit: Lots One (1), Two (2) and Three (3) in Block One (1); the North Thirteen (13) feet of Lot Four (4) in Block One (1); the South Four (4) feet of the North Seventeen (17) of the West Sixty (60) feet of Lot Four (4) in Block One (1), EXCEPT the South 6 feet of the Northerly 13 feet of the Easterly 83.5 feet of said Lot 4 in Block 1 in Hull’s Addition in the Town, now City, of Polo according to the Plat thereof recorded in Book A of Plats on Page 79 in the Recorder’s Office of Ogle County, Illinois; situated in the Township of Buffalo, the County of Ogle and State of Illinois; PIN; 14-16-328-010.

COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 601 South Division Avenue, Polo, Illinois 61064 AND Lot Four (4) in Block Six (6) in Barber’s First Addition in the Town, now City, of Polo, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Book A of Miscellaneous on Page 132 in the Recorder’s Office of Ogle County, Illinois; situated in the Township of Buffalo, the County of Ogle and State of Illinois; PIN: 14-16-137-005.

COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 108 South Congress Avenue, Polo, Illinois, 61064.

AND The West Ninety (90) feet of Lot One (1) in Block Six (6) in Barber’s First Addition in the Town, now City, of Polo, according to the

Plat thereof recorded in Book A of Miscellaneous on Page 132 in the Recorder’s Office of Ogle County, Illinois; situated in the Township of Buffalo, the County of Ogle and State of Illinois; PIN: 14-16-137-001.

COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 211 West Mason Street, Polo, Illinois 61064 AND Lot Six (6) in Block Seven (7) in Barber’s First Addition in the Town, now City, of Polo, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Book A of Miscellaneous, page 132, in the Recorder’s Office in Ogle County, Illinois.

Situated in the Township of Buffalo, County of Ogle and State of Illinois; PIN: 14-16-133007.

COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 212 West Mason Street, Polo, Illinois 61064 and which said Lien was recorded by The City of Polo as Creditor and against Ahmad Farraj, as Debor, and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Lee County, Illinois, as Document Nos. 20240319; and for other relief; that summons was duly issued out of said Court against you as provided by law and that the said suit is now pending.

NOW, THEREFORE, UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the Office of the Clerk of this Court: Clerk of the Circuit Court Ogle County Courts Building 106 S. Fifth Street Oregon, Illinois 61061 On or before August 2, 2025, A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRAYER OF SAID COMPLAINT. Dated: 06/27/2025 Kimberly A. Stahl Clerk of the Circuit Court Ogle County, Illinois Courtney E. Kennedy ( 6322625) Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger & Considine, LLC Attorneys for Plaintiff 114 E. Everett Street, Suite 300 Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 288-4949 (815) 288-3068 (FAX) k e n n e d y @ e g b c l a w. com NOTE: This law firm is deemed to be a debt collector.

No. 0701 (July 7, 14, and 21, 2025) PUBLIC NOTICE Public Notice is hereby given that on June 27, 2025 a certificate was

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION B • PAGE 13

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: Ellison Daylilies 1869 Cox Rd Chana, IL 61015 Dated: June 27, 2025 Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk No. 0702 (June 7, 14 and 21, 2025) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS JIMMY R. JACKSON, Plaintiff, v.

SAM WOODYATT, MONICA WISE, UNKNOWN OWNERS and NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants. )) 2025CH18 NOTICE BY PUBLICATION Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants That this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendants, praying for the Partition of the subject premises described as follows, to-wit: The North Half (1/2) of Lot Nine (9) in Block Twenty (20) in the Original Town, now City of Oregon, according to the Plat thereof recorded in Book F of Plats page 21 as Document No. 249320; situated in the Township of Oregon-Nashua, the County of Ogle and State of Illinois.

PIN: 16-03-169-007; commonly known as 206 South Fourth Street, Oregon, Illinois 61061 against the following defendants Sam Woodyatt, Monica Wise, Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants, and for other relief; that summons was duly issued out of said Court against you as provided by law and that the said suit is now pending.

NOW, THEREFORE, UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the Office of the Clerk of this Court: Clerk of the Circuit Court Ogle County Courthouse 106 S. Fifth Street Oregon, Illinois 61061 On or before August 8, 2025. A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRAYER OF SAID COMPLAINT. Dated: 6/30/2025 Kimberly A. Stahl

Clerk of the Circuit Court Ogle County, Illinois Courtney E. Kennedy (6322625) Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger & Considine, LLC Attorneys for Plaintiff 114 E. Everett Street, Suite 300 Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 288-4949 (815) 288-3068 (FAX) kennedy@egbclaw. com NOTE: This law firm is deemed to be a debt collector.

No. 0707 (July 7, 14 and 21, 2025) NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS IN THE MATIER OF THE ESTATE OF: DARYL C. POTTS, Deceased NO. 2025 PR 44 CLAIM NOTICE NOTICE IS GIVEN of the death of DARYL C. POTTS of Oregon, Illinois. Letters of office were issued on July 9, 2025 to Curtis Dale Cook of Oregon, Illinois, whose attorney is Douglas P. Floski, of Floski Law Office, LLC. at 220 W. Third Street, P.O. Box 1007, Byron, Illinois, 61010-1007.

CLAIMS against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court at Ogle County Judicial Center, 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, Illinois, 61061, or with the representative, or both, within 6 months from the first publication of this Notice, or within three months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 1975. as amended, whichever date is later. Any claim not filed within that period is barred.

Copies of claims filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the estate legal representative and to the attorney within 10 clays after the claim has been filed.

CURTIS DALE COOK, Personal Representative No. 0720 (July 21, 28 and Aug. 4, 2025) PUBLIC NOTICE Public Notice is hereby given that on July 14, 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: Wildhaven Cattle Company 11843 W IL Route 72 Forreston, IL 61030

Dated July 14, 2025 Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk No. 0721 (July 21, 28 and Aug. 4, 2025) NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS IN THE MATTER OF A CERTIFICATE OF TITLE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE SPRING BROOK MHP, LLC, an Illinois limited liability company, Plaintiff, v.

MICHAEL FOX and, CONSECO FINANCE, Defendants.

No. 2025CH13 NOTICE OF PUBLICATION Michael Fox That this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendant requesting the entry of a Court Order directing the Illinois Secretary of State issue title to and in that certain 1979 Mobile Home: VIN: 0130409N; Title Number T0174763024, located at 501 N. Ash Avenue, Lot 11, Forreston, Ogle County, Illinois.

NOW, THEREFORE, UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the Office of the Clerk of this Court: Clerk of the Circuit Court Ogle County Courthouse 106 S. Fifth Street Oregon, IL 61061 On or before August 21, 2025. A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDGEMENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRAYER OF SAID COMPLAINT. Dated July 14, 2025 Kimberly A. Stahl, Clerk of the Circuit Court Ogle County, Illinois No. 0723 (July 21, 28 and Aug. 4, 2025) LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING On Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance of Bertolet Memorial Library District Notice is hereby given to the Public that on September 8, 2025, at the hour of 6:00 P.M. at the Bertolet Memorial Library, 705 Main Street, Leaf River, Illinois, a public hearing will be held on the Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance for the Bertolet Memorial Library District for the fiscal year beginning July l, 2025 and ending June 30,

2026. Any person interested in said budget and ordinance may be present at said time and place and may be heard in regard to the budget and ordinance.

The tentative budget is now on file with the Secretary of the Board of Trustees, Bertolet Memorial Library District, at the Library office and may be reviewed upon request prior to said hearing by the Public.

Dated July 14, 2025 Krista Carlson, Secretary Board of Trustees Bertolet Memorial Library District 705 Main Street Leaf River, IL 61047 No. 0725 (July 21, 2025) NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE OF ORDINANCE NO. 25 - 2 AN ORDINANCE TO LEVY AND ASSESS A TAX FOR BERTOLET MEMORIAL LIBRARY DISTRICT OF THE COUNTY OF OGLE, STATE OF ILLINOIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2025 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 BE IT ORDAINED, that the Bertolet Memorial Library District of the County of Ogle and State of Illinois shall levy a tax of .02% of the value of all taxable property within said District, for building and maintenance purposes, subject to the right of the electors in said District to petition and require an election concerning the imposition of such additional tax, pursuant to 75 ILCS 16/35-5.

BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that within fifteen (15) days from the date of adoption of the ordinance, it shall be published in the Ogle County Life, a newspaper of general circulation in the Bertolet Memorial Library District.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunder set our hands in Leaf River, Illinois this 14th day of July, 2025.

1. The specific number of voters required to sign a petition requesting that the question of adoption of the resolution be submitted to the electors of the District is 100.

2. The petition must be filed at Bertolet Memorial Library on or before August 24, 2025.

3. The referendum would be held March 17, 2026 Secretary of the Board of Trustees Bertolet Memorial Library District c/o Bertolet Memorial Library District 705 Main Street Leaf River, Illinois

61047 No. 0726 (July 21, 2025) NOTICE THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF BYRON COMMUNITY UNIT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 226, OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY OF TENTATIVE BUDGET FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION AND PUBLIC HEARING PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN BY the Board of Education of Byron Community Unit School District No. 226, Ogle County, Illinois, that the tentative budget for said School District for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026, will be on file and conveniently available for public inspection at the District’s Administrative Offices located at 696 North Colfax Street, Byron, Illinois in this school District from 8:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. each weekday, excluding public holidays, beginning August 1, 2025.

Notice is further given that a public hearing on said budget will be held on September 18, 2025, at 5:45 p.m.

The public hearing will be held at the Byron High School Board of Education Room, 696 Colfax Street, Byron, Illinois in this School District. The purpose of the hearing will be to present the tentative budget and receive public comments on the budget.

By order of the Board of Education of Byron Community Unit School District No. 226, Ogle County, Illinois.

Dated this 16th day of July 2025 Phil Kesler Secretary, Board of Education Byron Community Unit School District No. 226 Ogle County, Illinois No. 0728 (July 21, 2025)

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Read and Recycle 101

LEGAL NOTICE

The Ogle County Housing Authority will be closing the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program waiting list to new applications on August 12, 2025, at 8:00 am CST. Applications for this program will not be accepted after this time.

Executive Director Ogle County Housing Authority No. 0727 (OCL July 21 and 28, 2025|RNLJuly 20 and 27, 2025)

SECTION B • PAGE 14 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

“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.”

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AUCTIONS

ONLINE PERSONAL PROPERTY AUCTION JULY CONSIGNMENT SALE 8813 N. MULBERRY ROAD, LEAF RIVER, IL 61047

Thursday, July 24th 8AM to Sunday, July 27th 5PM

This is an Online Auction.

Please visit https://aandtauctionservices.hibid.com/ for full sale viewing beginning 7/23/2025. Pictures will be uploaded prior to that date as they are available.

Personal Property: Antique and modern furniture, including dressers and more; garage items including hand tools, power tools, hardware, and more; books & VHS Tapes; collectibles and knick-knacks; glassware, including depression glass; various antiques; crocks and crock jugs; jewelry–gold, silver, and costume; memorabilia items; games & toys; many miscellaneous items and much, much more. Still adding items to this sale–something for everyone!

Vehicles: 1969 Ford Gran Torino GT Convertible. 74k Miles, 351 V8 Motor; 2007 Ford Econoline E150 Van 173k miles, runs and drives great.

Item Viewing: Items will be available for online viewing @ 8am on 7/23/2025. If you wish for more information on an item or an appointment to view an item, please contact A & T Auction Services directly.

Pick-Up: pick-up for items will be held on Tuesday, July 29th from 4:00-7:00pm at the sale site listed above.

Terms & Conditions: This is an absolute sale. There will be a 10% Buyer’s Premium added to all items sold. Items can be purchased with cash, GOOD check, or credit card. There will be a 3.5% fee added to any credit card transaction.

Follow A & T Auction Services on Facebook for more information!

Travis Cunningham, Auctioneer IL Lic. # 441.002600 A & T Auction Services, LLC atauctionservices@gmail.com 815-297-4595

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FINANCIAL

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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.

“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/CHILD CARE NO INDIVIDUAL, unless licensed or holding a permit as a

childcare facility, may cause to be published any advertisement soliciting a child care service. A childcare facility that is licensed or operating under a permit issued by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services may publish advertisements of the services for which it is specifically licensed or issued a permit. Your Hometown Newspaper strongly urges any parent or guardian to verify the validity of the license of any facility before placing a child in its care.

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HELP WANTED

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Class-A CDL Drivers Wanted

AUCTIONS

AUCTION

Saturday July 26th 10am

6754 East Illinois Rte 64 Chana, IL

Large Household Full of Very Nice Items Coins, Furniture, Antiques, Collectables.

Very Clean Items.

ESTATE OF WANDA OPPERMAN

Preview is hour before auction. 10% Buyers Premium, Cash or Good Check, No Credit Cards. Proper ID for Bid Number. Phone and Absentee Bids Accepted. Check Auctionzip and our Facebook for Pictures. All Sales Final.

Not Responsible for Lost or Stolen Items.

Items Sold As Is. As the Consignment Auction is Closed, We’ll Be Doing On-site Sales Only.

We Welcome Only Serious Buyers. We Also Purchase Good, Clean Households with Quality Antiques, Collectables or one Piece.

Chana 64 Auction 815-830-3898

“UWANNASELLITCALLUS”

Announcements Take Precedence of Any Printed Matter

$500 Sign on bonus Earn up to $33/per hour Local Trucking Company seeking full time, year- round driver to haul grain.

815-938-3644 Please leave message.

Hack’s Auction & Realty Service, Inc. Auctions – Real Estate Appraisals Online Auctions Now Available Pecatonica, IL 815-239-1436 Hacksauction.com

A&T Auction Services, LLC Travis Cunningham (815) 297-4595 Located in Forreston, IL

APARTMENTS FOR RENT OREGON/MT. MORRIS Newer 1, 2 & 3 BR APTS. Water, sewer, garbage inc. w/most units. HOUSES some w/garages, all in like new condition.

Starting at $425/mo.

815-734-4348 815-590-2302

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STORAGE UNITS

1563 Kysor Drive, Byron (next to D&W Garage)

Storage Unit Sizes: 5ʼ x 10ʼ 10ʼ x 10ʼ 10ʼ x 15ʼ 10ʼ x 20ʼ 10ʼx30ʼ

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203

HELP WANTED

Byron School District #226 Openings

• Part-Time Physical Therapist • Full-Time Maintenance Worker (See job postings for details)

Apply online at www.byron226.org 1. Click on the MENU button 2. Go to the “About Us” section 3. Click the Employment Opportunities link

Part-time Bookkeeper Position Rock River Center, Inc. is accepting applications for a Part Time Bookkeeper

09052022

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MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE BUNDLED Newspaper -$3 per Bundle.

Available MondayThursday 815-5624171 (9AM-3PM) Rochelle News Leader.

SPLIT Firewood For Sale. Contact 779-2510254 FOR SALE. 21.5”W 33”H 36” D Freezer $100. 4 Drawer Filing Cabinet $20. (2) 2x2 Security Safe with Automatic Door & Combination Dial Lock $20 Each. Call Nancy 815-751-4146. (thruRNL07302025\ OCL07282025)

Lenny Bryson Sales Of All Kinds 815-946-4120

501

07072025

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.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

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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 suchpreferences, 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.

Place an Ad:

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Subscribe:

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Position requires approximately 20 hours weekly. Flexible Schedule.

• Qualified applicants must be skilled in accounting and bookkeeping.

• Proficiency in QuickBooks and Excel and familiarity with payroll requirements and fund accounting helpful.

Applications are available at Rock River Center during business hours 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Monday-Friday or resumes may be emailed to executivedirector@rockrivercenter.org

All in the

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LEGAL NOTICE

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MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

Classifieds!

New Milford Refrigeration 6331 11th Street, Rockford

815-262-3900

Keep your Basement Dry this Summer!

Dehumidifiers $99 & Up New, Used, Scratch & Dent

Plus a Large Selection of Refurbished Appliances with a Warranty Air Conditioners | Dehumidifiers | Dryers Freezers | Refrigerators | Stoves | Washers

We’re Here to Keep You Cool!

A/C Unit Sizes In Stock 29,000 BTU 25,000 BTU 21,000 BTU 18,000 BTU 15,000 BTU

12,000 BTU 10,000 BTU 8,000 BTU 6,000 BTU 5,000 BTU

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER • SECTION B • PAGE 15

He’s 6’1”, but he still looks up to me.

Adopt a teen.

You can’t imagine the reward.

(noun): The invisible barrier that comes at every turn for workers without a bachelor’s degree.

See also: no alumni network, biased algorithms, degree screens, stereotypes, and misperceptions.

Ale, Superando el trastorno por consumo de sustancias

Millions of qualified STARs — workers Skilled Through Alternative Routes — with experience, skills and diverse perspectives are being held back by this silent barrier.

TEAR THE PAPER CEILING.ORG

“

La esperanza me permite ser valiente”.

Descubre cómo recuperarse del consumo de sustancias ComienzaConEsperanza.com

SECTION B • PAGE 16 • OGLE COUNTY LIFE/ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025

LOCAL NEWS

Kish College to offer six Fast-Track career programs in Fall 2025

MALTA — Kishwaukee College will offer six Fast-Track career programs during the Fall 2025 semester. Kish Fast-Track programs provide students with the expertise needed to meet local workforce demands. The programs range from 8-15 weeks, allowing students to start a career immediately or build upon skills with additional training.

Fall 2025 classes are available in online, in-person or hybrid formats.

Participants need internet access to participate in programs with an online component. Some programs include an externship/clinical.

The Fast-Track training programs offered in Fall 2025 are: Appliance Repair Technician: Aug. 25-Nov. 20 (In-Person): Appliance repair technicians are skilled

OCL B JULY 21.indd 16

professionals trained to assist clients with household appliance installation, troubleshooting and repairs.

In-person instruction is from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Kishwaukee College.

Dental Assistant: Aug. 25-Nov. 14 (online lecture/ in-person practice): Dental assistants work closely with dentists and dental hygienists to provide preventive and corrective dental care and administrative support in dental offices. Online instruction is delivered in an asynchronous format.

In-person practice is from 6-9 p.m. on four Tuesdays in a local dental office.

Pharmacy Technician: Aug. 25-Dec. 5 (online): Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists with dispensing prescription medication while performing various duties in a pharmacy setting.

Online instruction is deliv-

ered in an asynchronous format. Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding is available to those who qualify.

Phlebotomy Technician: Aug. 27-Nov. 7 (in-person): Phlebotomists are health care professionals trained to collect, transport, handle and process blood and other specimens for laboratory analysis using venipuncture and micro-collection techniques. Instruction and in-person practice are from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at Kishwaukee College.

The clinical experience is Monday-Friday from Oct. 20-Nov. 7 in a local hospital.

Real Estate Broker Pre-License: Sept. 23-Nov. 13 (online): Real estate brokers perform many duties in real estate transactions, including marketing homes, establishing escrow accounts, and working to

(COURTESY PHOTO)

Kishwaukee College will offer six Fast-Track career programs during the Fall 2025 semester.

ensure transactions are fair and legal. Online instruction is from 6-9 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Sterile Processing Technician: Aug. 25-Nov. 28 (Online): Sterile processing technicians support

patient services in a health care facility. Technicians help decontaminate, clean, process, assemble, sterilize, store and distribute medical devices and supplies needed in patient care, especially during surgery.

Online instruction is delivered in an asynchronous format.

Fall 2025 registration is open. Learn more or register for Kishwaukee College Fast-Track career programs at kish.edu/fasttrack.

7/17/25 12:46 PM