OCL_Ogle County Life_072125 by Shaw Media

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

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

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

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

BY JEFF HELFRICH)

(PHOTO

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

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.

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

(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)

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.

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-

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

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.”

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.

(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.

(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)

LOCAL NEWS

TOWN

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.”

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

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.

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,

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 reﬁ ning 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 construction as practiced by elite European and American designers.

(PHOTOS BY JEFF HELFRICH)

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

Teresa Boyden Johnson

TERESA 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

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

Fritts seeks 3rd term in

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.

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.

Illinois House

“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.

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.

Wendy S. (Pendergrass) Salveson

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

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

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

List

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.

OSF Saint Katharine collecting socks and shoes for Dixon students

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.

COUNTY BOARD: Special use permit approved Tuesday

From page 2

Steer tailing

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.

“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.”

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.

The board heard public 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 of Agriculture’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

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 of Appeals 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 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 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!

(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)

VIEWPOINT

"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

ILLINOIS Farm Bureau has long championed new and diverse market opportunities while fighting to eliminate trade barriers that hinder the agricultural economy of Illinois and the nation.

Illinois farmers rely on access to foreign markets to sell their products — from corn, soybeans, ethanol, beef, pork and more. With continued pressure on farm income, trade remains a top priority. In response to sweeping global tariffs — many of which have since been paused or rolled back — and reciprocal actions abroad, we quickly intensified our efforts to boost global market access and stressed the importance of trade with all decision makers.

That is why Illinois Farm Bureau continues to push for signed, long-term trade deals. We and county Farm Bureau leaders have held regular conversations with President Donald Trump’s administration, including USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, as well as with Illinois’ congressional delegation. I have personally made multiple trips to Washington, D.C., this spring and summer to underscore how critical it is for our farmers to maintain and expand trade relationships and eliminate existing trade barriers through support of bilateral, regional and multi-lateral free trade agreements.

While we welcomed

the temporary progress on U.S.-China negotiations and discussions with the U.K., much more work is needed to ensure long-term, fair access for American farmers. This is especially true in areas such as non-science-based phytosanitary requirements that serve as non-tariff trade barriers. From my farm and in my travels across Illinois, I see how essential trade is — our roads, railways and waterways move not just our products but our entire economy forward. We cannot afford to let trade policy stagnate.

Brian Duncan

Our world is increasingly competitive and complex. We need trade to solidify agriculture’s strategic position in it. The path ahead requires commitment and consistency.

Our farmers deserve trade policies that reflect the immense value they bring to the nation and the world. It’s time for leaders to resolve lingering disputes and eliminate contentious trade barriers. We’re ready to compete — just give us a fair shot.

Brian Duncan farms in Ogle County and serves as Illinois Farm Bureau president. This story was distributed through a cooperative project between Illinois Farm Bureau and the Illinois Press Association. For more food and farming news, visit FarmWeekNow.com.

Published every Monday Jeff Helfrich, Managing Editor

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

Letter: Response to Larson letter

DEAR 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.

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

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.

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 the AG 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

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

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.

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

Ogle County LIFE letters' policy

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.

VIEWPOINT

"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

DEAR 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-

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

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.

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)

“’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

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?)

Silene Walters: The Best Pizza

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 have a quick bite to eat. It is a unique Italian experience, and you can even try different toppings on your pizza. Some of my favorites include eggplant and tuna. Yes, I know it sounds weird when you’re probably debating whether pineapple belongs on pizza or not. But in Italy, they put a lot of different toppings on their pizzas—and it works out.

Being from São Paulo, Brazil gave me a lot of opportunities to try authentic Italian pizza. My city is home to one of the largest Italian populations

in the world. I grew up near an Italian neighborhood called Bexiga, and we always ordered pizza from Esperanza. They were famous for their calabresa (sausage) pizza. I remember their crust being almost bready. It was amazing. Kitty-corner to my sister’s house, there is a very good pizzeria. I always insist on having a catupiry pizza (creamy cheese), and my sister likes a Portuguese style (Portuguese sausage, eggs, onions, olives). It is always so good. We have even taken it to go and eaten it at the airport.

IT’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.

“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)

Henry Tideman, Oregon

“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.

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.

Celebrating agriculture and farmers during county fair season

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 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 industries, including food processing, equipment manufacturing, transportation, and logistics. It’s the backbone of our state’s economy, particularly in regions like Northwest Illinois. What’s often overlooked, though, is that more than 95% of Illinois farms are family-owned. These farms are usually described as “land-rich but cash-poor,” meaning that while they hold significant value in land and equipment, they don’t necessarily have large amounts of liquid assets. This creates

a considerable challenge when it comes to estate or “death” taxes.

When a farm is passed down after a death in the family, Illinois’ estate tax applies to land appraised at its current market value, regardless of whether the family intends to sell. With Illinois’ exemption of just $4 million, which is far below the federal exemption of over $13 million, many families are forced to sell land or equipment to cover the tax bill. That not only threatens the survival of individual farms but also undermines 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. Andrew Chesney (R-Freeport) is the Illinois state senator for the 45th District.

Silene Walters

Andrew Chesney

OGLE COUNTY FAIR

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

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

track and grandstand area of the fairgrounds.

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

The rst 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.

(COURTESY PHOTOS)

OGLE COUNTY FAIR

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.

Exhibit Building Open/Jr. Show

individual per class will not be accepted.

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!

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 Fair Association 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

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

(COURTESY PHOTOS)

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

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 signiﬁ cant as OSF HealthCare Saint Katharine Medical Center ofﬁ cially 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

PLATTEVILLE,

OSF HealthCare commemorated Founders’ Day on July 16

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.

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-

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

man, Taryn Dolan, Jacob Kann, Cooper Sholes. Chana: Rylee Jackson. Davis Junction: Caleb

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, president 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.”

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

BYRON – Byron

Bank is excited to announce the launch of its annual “Stuff-A-Bus” campaign; Give A Little, Supply A Lot! The campaign will run from July 21 to Aug. 9 and seeks

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

they can provide school supplies in the manner that they do, the impact on what it can do for students is incredible,” says Deana Simpson, principal at Monroe Center Grade School. “From the beginning of the school year, Byron Bank helps our students feel not only ready for school but confident in coming to school with all of the

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.

“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.

Stop by the nearest Byron Bank location and together, let’s help our students start the school year strong!

by honoring the pioneering spirit of The Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis,

(COURTESY PHOTO)

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.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

Brought to you by these sponsors:

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 ﬁ nal 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 ofﬁ cial 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 reﬂ ects 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.

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 open to the public. No registration is required.

at Commerce

Chicago Tribute Anthology to

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 Tom Anderson, Paul Bata, Terry Geraci, Paul Mabin, Chuck Parrish, Reed Pauley, Dan Peters and John Springbrunn. Learn more about the band at http://www.chi -

101 W.

play Mt. Morris Jamboree on July 25

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

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.

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

is Aug. 9

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.

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.

Towers,

2nd St., in suites 111 and 117.

(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.

(COURTESY PHOTO)

LOCAL NEWS

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

Ogle

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.

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

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.

(COURTESY PHOTOS)

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.

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-

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

Pictured is Michael Mott with his Jamaican made gourd banjo.

(COURTESY PHOTO)

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 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.

(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

“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.

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

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.

“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.

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/

The Ogle County Republican Party recently con rmed 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.

ROCK VALLEY SHOPPER

Christel Ackland 815-561-2153

Our sales reps would be glad to lend a helping hand!

Chris Grimm 815-561-2125

Registration now open for pickleball at Stillman Valley Fall Festival

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

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

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

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 -

1011 N Limekiln Road Oregon $105,000 Call

Rebecca

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!

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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.

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 9 th 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 (2 nd 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 30 th

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 -

MT. MORRIS PUBLIC LIBRARY

Library Closings

The Mount Morris Library will close early on Thursday, July 31 st 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 21 st 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

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

Drop-In Craft Monday, July 21 st 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 23 rd 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 28 th. We have an exciting opportunity at the Mount Morris Library with Holly, a local therapy dog. Holly will be here on the 4 th 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!

MT. MORRIS SENIOR CENTER

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

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

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

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 -

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

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

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:// www.oregonpubliclibrary.com or call (815) 732-2724.

Photo Printer at the library!

The library has a photo printer capable of printing 4 x 6, 5x7, 8x10, and 8.5 x 11 from computer, USB drive or SD card. It will not print directly from a phone. Call for more info.

Community Seed Library

You can’t beat the

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

Community Game Night at The Center.

Breakfast

Every Wednesday from 8 am to 10 am you can enjoy

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.

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. Newspaper Available!

We will now be receiving the Dixon Telegraph daily! We receive the Ogle County Life, Sauk Valley, and Mt. Morris

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

Exercise We have an ongoing

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

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

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

BERTOLET PUBLIC LIBRARY

Ag In 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,

FORRESTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

Adventures in STEAM Mondays, July 7thJuly 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

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 conﬁ rmation 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!

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

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

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!

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

(COURTESY PHOTO)

LEAF RIVER

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

KINGS

OREGON

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

Rev. Josiah Youngquist www.EBENEZERREFORMED.com

METHODIST

STILLMAN VALLEY

WINNEBAGO

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

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 - 9:3011:00 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.

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.

Ogle

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

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.

(COURTESY PHOTO)

Stillman Bank holds annual community food drive

STILLMAN VAL -

LEY – 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.

Rockford, Roscoe/Rockton, and Stillman Valley.

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)

Polo Lions Club participates in Polo’s Town & Country Days Parade

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

(COURTESY PHOTO)

LOCAL NEWS

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

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

LOCAL NEWS

OGLE

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

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 Swedish American 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.

LOCAL NEWS

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 2510 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

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.

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.

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)

Weekly Brain Busters

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) kennedy@egbclaw. 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

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)

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.

“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.”

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.”

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.

unless licensed or holding a permit as a

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

Lenny Bryson Sales Of All Kinds 815-946-4120 Hack’s Auction & Realty Service, Inc.

Auctions – Real Estate Appraisals Online Auctions Now Available Pecatonica, IL 815-239-1436 Hacksauction.com

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)

Rock River Center, Inc. is accepting applications for a

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.

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

(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.

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

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

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

Kishwaukee College

(COURTESY PHOTO)