Man accused of shooting 3 police officers will remain in jail / 6
Soccer honors
Oregon’s Deborah Schmid is 2024 Sauk Valley Media Girls Soccer Player of the Year / 11
Life sentence for Plote
Judge sentences Matthew Plote to life in prison for the murder of Melissa Lamesch and her unborn son / 5
DEATHS
Earleen Hinton
American flags adorn the hood ornament of this 1921 Nash Touring 6, owned by Trevor Carr, of Sharon, Wisconsin, at the Nashional Car Show on June 29 at the Stronghold Camp & Retreat Center. Story on page 3.
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Free music continues at Jamboree concerts
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
MOUNT MORRIS – Free music continues this week and next week in Mount Morris.
The StingRays, Chicago’s oldies rock ‘n’ roll band, are back for a two-hour concert from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 5.
“Everyone fortunate enough to have seen this exciting and engaging act will fondly remember the dynamic stage presence of this wonderful band and will attest to the do not miss grade level of their show,” said Larry Ubben, a Jamboree organizer. “The StingRays love inter-
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Patriotic golf cart parade set for July 5 in Grand Detour GRAND DETOUR – It’s that time of year again when residents of the village of Grand Detour north of Dixon put on their creative caps and decorate their golf carts and other modes of transportation for the sixth annual Fourth of July Golf Cart Parade on Friday, July 5. Red, white and blue creativity will be paired with carts, all-terrain vehciles, ultra-terrain vehicles, bicycles and just about anything else when the parade forms at 7:30 p.m. in the parking lot of the John Deere Historic Site.
The parade kicks off at 8 p.m. and will make one trip around the village before the
OREGON LIBRARY
2024 Summer Reading Program, Read, Renew, Repeat! Through July 26
The program is free to residents who are ages 3 to 17 and in the Oregon Public Library District. Registration is required. Come in, call or check out the Facebook page to find out how to register.
Mystery Photos change every Monday. Come to the library to enter. I Spy Hunt in the library may be played once a day.
Guess the Book! Try to figure out the title of the shredded remains of a book.
Programs for July 8 to July 13 (registration is required for all programs):
Monday, July 8, Story Time, 10 a.m. (18 months to 6 years old)
Tuesday, July 9, Teen Crafternoon, 1:30 p.m. (ages 13 and older) – Trash to Treasure
Wednesday, July 10, Activity Time, 1:30 p.m. (first grade and older) – Let’s Paint the Town
acting with audiences through trivia, dance contests and joining people in the audience. They always get the crowd singing and dancing to songs from the ’50s through the ’70s.”
Concessions for the evening will be provided by the Ogle County Beef Producers, who will be serving ribeye steak sandwiches, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, all-beef hot dogs, water and soft drinks.
Grandpa’s Ice Cream and Bill’s Famous Lemonade also will be there starting at 6 p.m.
The Let Freedom Ring Car Show will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wesley Ave-
nue in front of the bandshell.
“It’s also alumni night on the campus that evening and all Mounders are encouraged to attend,” Ubben said. “On either side of the bandshell, the Sandstone Encore Art Gallery will feature a new show and the new location of the Mount Morris Historical Museum in the newly renovated College Hall will be open during the concert.”
Howard & the White Boys return to the bandshell at 7 p.m., Friday, July 12.
Concessions for the evening will be provided by Leaf River Lions, who will be serving Italian beef sandwiches, chips and drinks.
fireworks show at dusk. This year’s parade will be led by longtime resident and parade organizer Jim Ross, who has been named this year’s parade marshal.
In previous years, 50 to 60 vehicles donning a wide variety of decorations have taken part in the festivities with some entries tossing candy to the village’s 350-some residents. For more information, call Ross at 815-973-0014.
Trombone professor to play with Kable Concert Band on July 10
The Kable Concert Band will perform at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 10, at the Reckmeyer Band Shell in Mount Morris.
There will be a special performance by Andrew Glendenning, a trombone professor from Northern Illinois University. Andy Eckardt conducts the band. “Come early and enjoy the ice cream social, which begins around 7 p.m.,” band member Sylvia Saunders said.
Village’s garage sales July 19-20 GRAND DETOUR – The all-village garage sales are July 19 and 20. Maps are available at the Grand Detour Shell station. Anyone interested in having a sale can call Connie Ross at 815-973-0988 to get on the map. The fee is $5, which helps pay the cost of advertising and printing the maps.
Thursday, July 11, Northern Illinois Raptor Rehab & Education, 1 p.m. (first grade and older). Come see and learn about seven birds of prey and the roles they play in nature and conservation. Meet the birds up close and persona.
Saturday, July 13, “Read, Renew, Repeat” selected book titles due for 3 to 6 year olds. Ink with a Friend Monthly Card Club, 6 p.m. Monday, July 15
Sending personal cards to your friends and family is a way to let them know you care and are thinking about them. Whether you’re a new card maker or a seasoned pro, our kits are suited to every skill level. Sign up today to reserve your spot. Oregon patrons only. Registration is required 815-732-2724 or www.oregonpubliclibrary.com. Try It Tuesday
Tuesday, July 16, at 1:30 5:30 p.m. (Choose your time slot).
CORRECTIONS
Accuracy is important to the Oregon Republican Reporter. Please call errors to our attention by email at news@oglecountynews.com.
Adult Coloring. This is an adult only class for those 18 and older. Registration is required at 815-732-2724 or www.oregonpubliclibrary.com.
Book Clubs
The 2WBC meets at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 10, to discuss “The Shack” by Wm. Paul Young.
The Afternoon Book Club meets at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 17, to discuss “The Note” by Angela Hunt.
Cocktails & Crimes will meet Sunday, July 21.
Books on Tap Book Club meets at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 25, at Cork & Tap to discuss “People We Meet on Vacation” by Emily Henry.
Is This Just Fantasy? Book Club will meet Tuesday, July 30, to discuss “The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi” by Shannon Chakraborty.
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We want to hear from you. Email us your thoughts at feedback@shawmedia.com.
Flashy, practical and flat out cool: Nash cars shine at show in Oregon
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – When the skies cleared Saturday, it was “shinetime” for 50 Nash cars at the Stronghold Camp & Retreat Center.
The 2024 “Grand Nashional,” hosted by the Upper Mississippi River Region of the Nash Car Club of America, featured models spanning six decades of the iconic, independent car line.
The event showed Nash newbies that the vehicles – known for the “Little Nash Rambler” – were way, way more than that.
Take, for instance, James Beymer’s 1957 Rambler Rebel.
“I owned one while I was in college,” said Beymer, pointing to his spiffy, twotoned Rebel. “It was the second-fastest production car from zero to 60 seconds, beat only by the fuel-injected Corvette by one-half second. It was a hot rod. I whipped every Ford and Chevy I came across. I loved it.”
Beymer, of Henryella, Oklahoma, bought another Rebel in 2008 and took four years to restore it.
“I did everything except the upholstery,” Beymer said. “There were 1,500 made and they were all the same color.”
There were only three options offered, Beymer said, with his Rebel coming equipped with all three, including air conditioning, indicated by a little metal badge on the driver’s door.
He brought his Rebel to the show in Illinois in a trailer.
“I don’t drive it very far,” Beymer said. “My car is 610 out of the 1,500 made and there are only 25 left and only 12 have been restored.”
Parked right next to Beymer was Charlie and Maggie Wilson’s almost identical 1957 Rebel – same color, but no AC. They drove their Rebel to the Nashional all the way from their home in Canton, Ohio.
“This is our vacation car,” Charlie said. “For most years when we are going somewhere, we are going in the Rebel. We’ve been to New York City and Boston.”
Charlie bought the restored Rebel in Spokane, Washington, in 1993.
“We drove it into the back of a Ryder rental truck and drove it home,” Charlie said. “The previous owner didn’t think we could drive it back home, but I think we could have.”
The Rebel is powered by a V8 engine and averages between 11 to 12 miles on
the road, Charlie said.
In an artsy flashback to 1952 was Tom and Lisa VandeWettering’s Nash Healey Roadster, a pearl-colored beauty with sleek, cool lines and big round headlights.
“There are only two of these in Wisconsin,” said Tom, a sixth-generation dairy farmer from Greenleaf, Wisconsin. “There was only 500 of them made. They were made to race at LeMans.”
LeMans is a 24-hour endurance-focused sports car race held annually near the town of Le Mans, France. VandeWettering’s Healey is a threespeed with overdrive powered by an in-line 6-cylinder engine with dual carburetors.
The Nash Healey was designed by Donald Healey, a British sports car builder, and George Mason, president of Nash-Kelvinator.
Tom and Lisa bought their car two years ago in California.
“We bought it from a family who had owned it since 1958,” Lisa said. “When we left with it they said you are like one of our kids now.”
Tom said the elderly owner, also
named Tom, sold it because he didn’t feel comfortable driving it any longer. He had named the car “Dollybelle,” a name the VandeWetterings are keeping.
“He named it and we kept the name,” Lisa said. “It was meant to be.”
A Healey recently sold for $149,000.
“It really is art,” Tom said.
In a contrast in design and price, sitting next to the Healey was Bill and
Matt Woodstrup of Sycamore brought his 1972 AMC Gremlin to the Nashional Car Show on June 29 at the Stronghold Camp & Retreat Center.
Pam Sturgeon’s 1961 Nash Metropolitan coupe – the little Nash “Met” known for its frugality and petiteness.
“Here we have the most expensive [Healey] and the most economical [Metropolitan],” Tom said.
The Healey sold new for $6,200. The Met’s MSRP was $1,673.
Photos by Earleen Hinton
James Beymer of Henryella, Oklahoma, visits with Jeff and Molly Hallock of Oregon and their grandson, Miles, 5, at the Nashional Car Show on June 29 at the Stronghold Camp & Retreat Center north of Oregon. Beymer brought his 1957 Rambler Rebel to the show.
Ernie Pyfer’s postcards offer insight into past
Summer is here and people are out and about but I have stayed close to home. My allergies have kicked up or I picked up a bug at the wedding festivities. Started as hoarseness and now I am coughing away but life goes on and people stop by at the museum.
Linda brought over a scrapbook of old postcards that Ernie Pyfer put together many years ago. I was so excited to look at it and in it are postcards we did not have. For example, one card is of the old Evangelical Church that stood on the corner of Congress and Locust streets. It seemed to be part of the school system and Ernie attended some classes in that building.
Then someone bought it and turned it into a house and someone still lives in it today. I knew all about the history of it having lived right across the street from it for a while but I had not seen a good picture of it
POLO HISTORY
Betty Obendorf
when it was a church. When were those years and when did it become part of the school system? One more thing to research as if we do not have enough.
Margaret Pyfer brought down several big containers of scrapbooks, other books and a wealth of historical things for us. I went over to the museum to look at Ernie’s collection and I was amazed.
All are labeled and some are about other towns. We will have to start pulling them apart and putting the Polo history cards in the files where they belong. This way we will know what we have rather than saying,
“Well, somewhere in a scrapbook there is a picture postcard of that.” One card is a picture of a zephyr going along the edge of the Pines. That picture needs to go in our new book we are putting together and then that needs to be with the photos of the Pines.
One can just sit and look for hours at all that Ernie put together. He was raised in Polo but lived in Freeport. He caned chairs and I would take my chairs up to him to be done. He did a great job. Margaret was his wife and she is now getting rid of things. I enjoyed visiting with her the day she came to Polo.
Other visitors to Polo this week have been Dale Blough’s family. Linda and I enjoyed seeing his grandchildren and we loved showing them the museum. This is where they can come and see what their grandfather collected all through the years. They
were pleased with how we had put it all together and how it tells a story of the Native Americans that were part of their property.
Carol Durkin’s Native American art gallery fit right in with the Congress School paintings Dale had saved along with the Acoma pottery. In our newer Polo book there is a 1946 picture of a third grade classroom showing one of the paintings Dale had saved. How cool is that? Anne was quite surprised. Linda remembered to show that to the family.
It is a big help to have Linda or Beth there to help me remember all the little details when people visit. It makes their visit to the museum special when we all can give a little information of the history of Polo.
• Betty Obendorf is a retired teacher and volunteer for the Polo Historical Society.
Ogle County Garden Club part of Oregon’s past
By OTTO DICK
Checking the internet today there are no garden clubs in existence in Ogle County. There is one listed in Dixon and several in Rockford.
At the Ogle County Historical Society, we have a folder of events sponsored by the Oregon Garden Club. From 1929 to 1943 their meetings were held at the Oregon Coliseum.
Their topics were Edible Wild Plants, Historic Hazelwood, Thanksgivng Table Decorations, Poetry in My Garden, Pansies and Wild Flowers. Dieting the Soil, When Violets Bloom, Apple Blossom Time, Lighting the Garden, Flower Arrangement, Exhibiting, Highlights in the Garden Year, Seeds and Soil for Victory Gardens and Highlights in the Garden Year.
Many familiar names were mentioned in the programs. A few of these were Ruby Nash, Emily Cartwright, Julia Garard, Mrs. C.D. Etnyre, Mrs.
Judge Leon Zick, Mrs. Kuntzelman, Mrs. Glenn Andrew, Mrs. E. Murdock, Mrs. Roland Kiest, Mrs. Frank Sheets and Mrs. Frank Ziegler.
There were several meetings of the Oregon Garden Club that were sponsored by the Eagle’s Nest Camp.
“On Aug. 3, Mrs Ralph Clarkson was hostess to the Oregon Garden Club at Eagle’s Nest Camp. The meeting was held in the spacious dining hall, which was well-filled by the large company in attendance. Mrs. Clarkson has made a special study of botany and among the things which she described were the plants and trees of Mexico.” The year is unknown.
Charles D. Etnyre was one of the founders of the Oregon Garden Club. In 1942 an old oak tree estimated at being 350 years old was dedicated to Etnyre. A memorial sign was placed on the tree stating it was preserved by Charles D. Etnyre.
The tree was located at the inter-
Ford streets in Oregon. The sign is now in the Ogle County Historical Society Museum.
section of North Fifth and Ford streets. In 2008, the tree was removed by the city. It measured 54 inches in diameter.
When John Barnhart saw they were going to remove the tree, he removed the sign and turned it over to the historical society.
• Otto Dick is a retired teacher and has researched Ogle County history for several years.
Program about Polo’s role in the Underground Railroad set for July 10
Betty Obendorf of the Polo Historical Society will present a program about Polo’s role in the Underground Railroad at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 10.
Obendorf originally researched the topic 20 years ago.
She recently updated the information because so many new residents were inquiring about it.
The public is invited to attend the program.
“It is sure to be well-attended so please note that it will be held at the Polo Senior Center, 101 E. Mason St. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the program beginning at 7 p.m.,” said Linda Gall, Polo Historical Society member.
“Come learn about the folks who
moved here from New York for the purpose of establishing an Underground Railroad route for Freedom Seekers and how they implemented their plan. Find out about who they were and also how Polo may qualify for special Underground Railroad signage,” Gall said.
Photo provided by Otto Dick
This sign stood where the oak tree was located at North Fifth and
Shaw Local News Network file photo
The oak tree located at North Fifth and Ford streets in Oregon was in the Oregon Garden Club’s “Trees of Oregon” book. The tree was declared dead in 2008 and was removed by the city.
Plote sentenced to life in prison for murder of Melissa Lamesch
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – Calling it a “brutal crime,” Ogle County Judge John “Ben” Roe sentenced Matthew Plote, 36, of Malta to life in prison June 27 for the November 2020 murder of Melissa Lamesch and her full-term, unborn son.
Lamesch, 27, of Mount Morris, was nine months pregnant with Plote’s baby when she was found dead inside her burning home on Nov. 25, 2020.
Plote was convicted March 22 of killing Lamesch just one day before Thanksgiving and two days before their baby was to be born.
Jurors deliberated for two hours before finding him guilty of four counts of first-degree murder, three counts of intentional homicide of an unborn child and one count each of residential arson, aggravated domestic battery and concealment of a homicidal death.
Roe announced the sentence after hearing victim impact statements from Lamesch’s mother, father and sister and arguments from Assistant State’s Attorney Heather Kruse and one of Plote’s defense attorneys, John Kopp.
Gus Lamesch, Melissa’s father, told the court his life was “forever changed” when his home was destroyed and his daughter and soonto-be grandson were murdered in a “premeditated and senseless” act. He said he could not continue to live in the home because of the horrors he saw when he was finally allowed back in.
“Going in and seeing the spot on the floor where she was found and seeing all the baby items scattered about and finding her adopted cat, Antonio, deceased under the bed as he tried to escape the fire,” Gus said. “I could not go back to the horrors there.”
He said Melissa was in the prime of her life and was looking forward to having the baby, whom she already had named Barrett.
“The court process was very hard, seeing the monster who killed my daughter,” Gus said. “Melissa and Barrett should still be alive.”
Melissa’s mother, Deanna, of Malta, said she and her family lived in fear as the investigation into the death took 469 days before Plote was charged.
“He [Plote] got to be free and I lived in fear and anxiety,” Deanna said, adding that Plote worked for the Malta EMS as a paramedic, knew where she
lived and would drive by her home.
“I felt we were being watched.”
She said she and her family had waited 1,213 days for a guilty verdict.
“It has been 1,310 days to get here today,” Deanna said.
Melissa and Barrett’s deaths have changed her outlook on life, causing her to become withdrawn and affecting her spiritually, Deanna said.
“None of this had to happen. All he had to do was walk away,” Deanna said.
During the trial, detectives accused Plote, a Carol Stream paramedic, of strangling Lamesch because he didn’t want the birth of his son to interfere with his “carefree playboy lifestyle.”
In an initial police interview Nov. 25, 2020, Plote told detectives that Lamesch had wanted him to be involved with the baby, but he initially “wasn’t on board,” but went to her home to “work things out.”
Plote told police he stayed “about an hour” at Lamesch’s home and they talked at the kitchen table before moving to the couch to have what he described as consensual sex. He said he then left the home by walking out the front door.
Plote chose not to take the stand during the jury trial.
Cassie Baal, Lamesch’s older sister, told jurors that she was on the phone with her sister when Plote appeared at the family’s childhood home the day she died.
“She said she would make the conversation quick and would call me right back,” Baal testified.
Prosecutors argued that Lamesch never called Baal back because Plote had killed her and then set the home on fire.
At the sentencing hearing, Baal said her sister had “joy in her voice” before “evil” arrived at her door. She said she is continually “swimming in grief” and regrets things she might have said during the phone call.
“If only I had told her not to go to the door. If only I would have known what was about to happen to her, maybe we would not be here today,” Baal said tearfully.
Kruse argued that Plote intentionally put an entire neighborhood at risk when he set the home on fire after killing Melissa.
“This is an abhorrent crime,” Kruse said. “The sentence should also deter anyone else from ever crossing this line.”
She said the crimes were especially “sick” because Plote had been
employed in a profession that was supposed to help people.
“This is a horror story that Melissa and her family never saw coming,” Kruse said. “This was a pregnant woman and his child. If he could do this to his own baby, no one is safe from him. This was a cruel murder. She trusted this man. She let him into her home.”
Kruse argued for a life sentence and said evidence at the trial indicated Melissa had died while fighting for her life and her baby’s.
A forensic scientist with the Illinois State Police Forensic Lab in Rockford testified that Plote’s DNA was found in fingernail scrapings taken from Lamesch’s right and left hands. He also said semen found in Lamesch’s vagina also fit Plote’s profile as did cheek swabs taken from the dead baby.
Forensic pathologists Dr. Mark Peters and Dr. Amanda Youmans told jurors that Lamesch was strangled before firefighters recovered her from her burning home.
They testified that abrasions on Lamesch’s face and scalp and bruises on her legs and thighs all occurred before she died and no elevated levels of carbon monoxide were found in Lamesch’s blood. Her “full-term male fetus” had no abnormalities. Lamesch also had minimal thermal wounds, they testified.
Youmans said Lamesch’s neck, face, eyes and larynx all showed signs of strangulation. Hemorrhages in the muscles in Lamesch’s neck were caused by pressure being applied to that area and when Youmans cleaned soot and debris from Lamesch’s body she discovered more injuries she said were consistent with “blunt force.”
Those injuries, Youmans said, were found on Lamesch’s forehead, head and temple and were consistent with “multiple blows to her head.”
“Her injuries were consistent with her fighting back,” Kruse said in arguing for a sentence of life in prison. “The terror she must have felt while she was fighting for her life and her baby’s life ... this defendant should never be free again. That is a just sentence for this man’s action in wiping out these two lives.”
Plote’s attorney Liam Dixon said Plote had spent his entire career helping people as a paramedic and said he also had been an Eagle Scout.
“He [Plote] has zero criminal history,” Dixon said. “We ask the court to consider that.”
Asked by Roe if he wanted to make a statement before the sentence was given, Plote softly said: “I share the pain and loss of Melissa and Barrett.”
Roe said he considered all arguments and evidence and in addition to the life sentence, he sentenced Plote to
We believe the court got it right. This crime and justice demanded a natural life sentence. I would like to thank law enforcement and Assistant State’s Attorneys Heather Kruse and Allison Huntley for their hard work and dedication to this case.”
Mike Rock, Ogle County State’s Attorney
60 years in prison for the death of the baby and 15 years in prison for setting the Lamesch home on fire in an attempt to conceal the deaths. The sentences will be served concurrently.
Roe said the sentences were appropriate, despite Plote’s lack of criminal history, when considering Lamesch was “fighting for her life and her baby boy’s life” for four to six minutes as she was strangled to death.
Mount Morris firefighters testified they were called to the Lamesch home on South Hannah Avenue about 4:30 p.m. Nov. 25, 2020, and forced their way into the home where they found Lamesch laying on the kitchen floor not breathing and covered with soot and debris.
When she was dragged from the burning home and placed into an ambulance, there was no electrical activity in her heart and she was pronounced dead at 4:54 p.m., firefighters said.
Lamesch was a 2011 graduate of Oregon High School and an emergency medical technician at Trace Ambulance Service in Tinley Park. She moved back into the family home in October 2020 and was scheduled to have her labor induced Nov. 27.
Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock said he was pleased with the sentence.
“We believe the court got it right,” Rock said. “This crime and justice demanded a natural life sentence. I would like to thank law enforcement and Assistant State’s Attorneys Heather Kruse and Allison Huntley for their hard work and dedication to this case.”
Defense attorney Kopp said he and Dixon plan to file an appeal.
“We understand the court’s position. We do believe that we have several issues to take up on appeal and our client intends to do that. Our hearts go out to the family. We’re very sorry for their loss,” Kopp said.
Matthew Plote
Melissa Lamesch
Man accused of shooting 3 cops will remain in jail
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – For the second time in less than a week, an Ogle County judge has denied a rural Dixon man’s request to be released from jail as he faces charges of attempted murder in the shooting of three police officers during a June 12 incident at his home.
Jonathon Gounaris, 32, is charged with four counts of attempted first-degree murder, three counts of aggravated discharge of a firearm, three counts of aggravated battery and two counts of possession of a firearm without a firearm owner’s identification card.
Police allege that he shot three members of the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Response Team after a three-hour standoff when police tried to enter his home in the 400 block of Wild Rice Lane in Lost Lake, a rural subdivision east of Dixon commonly referred to as Lost Nation.
Ogle County Deputy Lt. Jason Ketter was shot in the face and taken by air ambulance to OSF Medical Center in Rockford, where he underwent surgery. He was released from the hospital June 14.
Sgt. Tad Dominski of the Oregon Police Department was shot in the arm and Tyler Carls of the Rochelle Fire Department was shot in the torso during the afternoon incident. They were treated at KSB Hospital in Dixon and released later that evening.
The ERT is made up of individuals from agencies including the sheriff’s office, Oregon and Byron police departments and SWAT medics from the Rochelle Fire Department.
To view body camera footage of the shootings, visit www.youtube.com/ watch?v=7zEhLBrcn0g.
Gounaris also was shot during the gunfire exchange and was taken to KSB Hospital in Dixon, where he was treated before being booked into the Winnebago County Jail in Rockford on June 18.
On June 20, Gounaris made his first court appearance for a detention hearing, where a judge decides whether a defendant can be released from custody based on information presented by prosecutors and defense attorneys.
Judge Anthony Peska denied Gounaris’ request to be released from custody after hearing arguments from Assistant State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten and Ogle County Public Defender William Gibbs.
Peska said Leisten had presented
At the June 20 hearing, Leisten said the mother told authorities that her son suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and, in general, hated police. She also said her son recently had been stalking a woman in Wood Dale whom he had become obsessed with and had sent that woman’s mother a photo of him holding a gun to his head.
The state also alleges that when officers entered the home after the exchange of gunfire, Gounaris was found lying on the living room floor wearing body armor with a handgun, pepper spray and knife in close proximity.
“He told the officers, ‘Thank you, thank you. You got me good,’” Leisten said during the June 20 hearing.
Kruse reiterated similar information June 26.
“[Gounaris] left very disturbing messages,” said Kruse, adding that police had tried to talk to Gounaris but received no answer to 75 phone calls they made before attempting to enter the home.
Gibbs questioned the state’s interpretation of what they claim the mother told police.
“It’s not entirely accurate,” Gibbs said. “He was evaluated at KSB and he is in need of treatment at this point in time.”
Gibbs again asked the court to release Gounaris.
“He has family in McHenry County he could stay with,” Gibbs said. “Releasing him for treatment would be helpful. We believe conditions could be set to mitigate any risk.”
Kruse disagreed.
“He is an absolute, real and present threat,” she argued, “to the woman in Wood Dale, to the public of Ogle County. This is an active specific threat that he acted on. He is unstable. There is no condition that could keep everyone safe.”
Redington agreed and remanded Gounaris back to the Winnebago County Jail. He set Gounaris’ preliminary hearing for 10 a.m. July 10.
“clear and convincing evidence” that the crimes had occurred, noting that Gounaris faces multiple attempted murder charges.
Peska said family members and law enforcement officers could be in danger if he were to be released.
On June 26, Gounaris appeared before Judge John Redington and Assistant State’s Attorney Heather Kruse again asked that Gounaris be kept in custody.
Wearing handcuffs, leg irons and a jumpsuit issued to inmates, he was escorted by two Winnebago County
corrections officers and Ogle County court deputies.
Kruse said Gounaris’ mother had called the sheriff’s office the morning of June 12 and told authorities that her son had made suicidal and homicidal comments and had access to two guns. The mother left the home and waited with a deputy at the west gate of the subdivision as police were called to the home, police said.
“She could not handle this situation on her own,” Kruse told the court. “She said he would kill anyone who wanted to talk to him.”
Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock said attempted first-degree murder is a Class X felony punishable by a special sentence of 20 to 80 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections followed by three years of mandatory supervised release. Aggravated discharge of a firearm is a Class X felony punishable by a special sentence of 10 to 45 years in prison followed by three years of mandatory supervised release.
Aggravated battery also is a Class X felony punishable by 15 to 60 years in prison, and possession of a firearm without a FOID card is a Class 3 felony punishable by a sentence of two to five years in prison.
Jonathon Gounaris, 32, of Dixon
Alex T. Paschal
Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle addresses the media June 12 after three deputies were injured in a shootout.
Alex T. Paschal
Lt. Jason Ketter receives a salute before being applauded by fellow law enforcement officers as he leaves OSF Medical Center in Rockford on June 14.
Judge to allow some internet searches at trial for mom accused of killing son
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – Some internet searches that prosecutors say an Oregon mother made before suffocating her 7-year-old son in 2021 will be allowed at her trial next month, an Ogle County judge ruled Monday.
tions to be decided by the judge. Motions in limine in the Safranek case have been sealed and are not viewable to the public.
On Friday, Assistant State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten argued that several internet searches were discovered on Safranek’s phone.
that someone else may have used Safranek’s Google account to make the searches.
“We don’t know which device was used,” Isley said. “Searches or website visits need to be distinctive. Some of these have nothing to do with this case and are not relevant.”
Friday’s and Monday’s hearings followed a June 17 hearing during which four prosecution witnesses testified that Nathaniel, before his death, told them that he was being abused by his mother. Defense attorneys countered that the statements were hearsay and should not be allowed as evidence.
Sarah Safranek, 37, the mother of Nathaniel Burton, is accused of killing him in the family’s Oregon home in February 2021. She is charged with five counts of first-degree murder and one count of aggravated battery. She was arrested April 21, 2021, and indicted May 4, 2021. She pleaded not guilty May 6, 2021.
Judge John Redington made his decision after listening to testimony and arguments regarding motions in limine on Friday and took the weekend to review case law before rendering his decision Monday afternoon.
Motions in limine are made to determine whether certain evidence may be presented to the jury and are commonly entered and argued before a trial begins, allowing evidentiary ques-
He said some of the searches asked questions about parents having thoughts of killing their children.
“We believe these searches are very important to the case,” Leisten said, referring to internet browser history.
“These searches show she was planning to kill Nathaniel.”
Safranek’s attorneys, Ogle County Public Defenders Kathleen Isley and Michael O’Brien, argued the searches should not be allowed because there was no direct evidence that their client made the searches herself.
“There is no evidence that Sarah conducted these searches,” Isley argued. “There were other people inside the household who had access to those devices.”
Allowing the internet searches as evidence at trial would be prejudicial to Safranek, Isley argued, adding prosecutors had not specified which devices the searches occurred and some of the searches were made many months before the boy’s death. Isley argued
Leisten countered that the defense could cross-examine any witness at the trial who testifies about the searches.
“The defense can argue someone else was using her phone,” Leisten said.
Redington agreed to allow the state to offer some of the internet searches as evidence while denying others.
In his ruling, Redington allowed an Aug. 5, 2020, search titled “I’ve had thoughts about killing my kid. Thoughts of killing my children – anyone else have them?”
Another, made Nov. 1, 2020, asked, “What is it called when a parent is obsessed with the thought of killing their child?”
Redington also allowed Feb. 17, 2021, searches of: “How much does cremation of a child cost?” and “How long does an investigation take after a child passes away?”
Redington reserved ruling on some of the other motions made by both the prosecution and defense.
Isley and O’Brien argued that the witnesses’ testimonies were inconsistent, lacked crucial specifics as to when and how the alleged incidents happened and should not be taken at face value.
They argued that some of those statements were hearsay and allowing them would affect Safranek’s due process – a legal term that refers to fair treatment for a defendant as their case moves through the court system. Hearsay statements refer to information received from witnesses that cannot be substantiated through cross-examination.
In that decision, Redington said statements made to two Dixon residents with whom Nathaniel had stayed would be allowed as evidence in the trial, including his claims that his mom tried drowning him when he was taking a bath and had tried to choke him in two other incidents.
See SAFRANEK, page 15
Sarah Safranek
Rockford family urging public to be on lookout for missing man
Authorities believe Carter Mcgowan entered the Rock River in Rockford on Jan. 22
By PAYTON FELIX pfelix@shawmedia.com
DIXON – The family of a missing Rockford man police believe fell into the Rock River five months ago is asking Sauk Valley residents to be on the lookout this summer in and around the river for any signs of him.
Carter Mcgowan, who was 22 at the time, was declared a missing person on Jan. 22, Rockford police records show. During the initial search, police found a jacket belonging to Mcgowan and footprints in the snow near the Rock River on the 15th Avenue bridge in Rockford. The discovery led officers to believe he had fallen into the river. The search was turned over to the Rockford Fire Department and the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office.
Arlen Harms of Rochelle, Mcgowan’s grandfather, and other family members have been contacting local park districts and boat launches to put up signs so those who are on the river this summer can be on the lookout. Officials have said the river’s current may have carried his body a great distance downstream; safety officials the family has spoken to have said it’s going to be a boater or a fisherman
Castle Rock State Park in Oregon is one of the many parks that the family of Carter Mcgowan has contacted to put up signs urging the public to be on the lookout. Mcgowan, who was 22 at the time, was declared a missing person in Rockford on Jan. 22, police records show. Officials believe he had fallen into the Rock River and may have been carried a great distance downstream.
who finds his body, Harms told Shaw Local News Network.
“We ask that boaters and fisherman keep a close eye on the river, shoreline and island areas. If you find what appears to be a body, please call 911 with your location. Do not put yourself at risk,” the sign reads.
On the day Mcgowan went missing, his mother had escorted him to a doctor’s appointment at the UW Health Clinic on Marchesano Drive in Rockford, Harms said. He said Mcgowan, who is autistic, was nervous going into the appointment and abruptly left in the middle of it. His mother, thinking he had gone to the bathroom, started to
get worried when he didn’t return. She was looking around the office when an employee at the front desk told her that he had “dashed out the front door.”
Panicked, Mcgowan’s mother called friends and other family members who began searching the area, Harms said. With no sign of Carter, his mother called the police to report him missing.
Carter graduated from Rockford East High School in 2019 and earned his associate of science degree from Rock Valley College in 2022. His family describes him as a lover of books, walks and nature.
After initial searches were unsuc-
cessful, several other departments were brought in to help over the next couple of months. The Rockford Fire Department used its dive team and the Blackhawk Fire Department has conducted several searches. Harms said the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office also was a big help to them.
Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle recommended the family to Christian Aid Ministries’ search and rescue team in Tampico. The volunteer group conducted searches using “lots of high-tech equipment,” including sonar, GPS tracking and mapping software, Harms said.
In the spring, VanVickle coordinated searches with the Byron, Oregon, Rochelle, Dixon Rural and Dixon City fire departments. The departments were assigned sections of the river and each spent a full day searching each of their sections, Dixon Rural Assistant Fire Chief Derrick Storey said in an interview with Shaw Local News Network.
Harms said they still are conducting occasional searches. The case remains open as a missing adult case, according to Rockford Police Department records.
The family, who describe the death as a suicide, held funeral services for Mcgowan in early March, Harms said.
“Carter never spoke an unkind word about anyone,” Harms said. “He was a great kid, so gentle, caring and thoughtful.”
Ogle County Regional Planning Commission denies rezoning recommendation
ter, an attorney with Elrod Friedman LLP representing Constellation. “We’re trying to unify under the industrial district.”
Flanagan asked what would protect the property from becoming host to “something we really don’t want it to be” if the zoning changes were approved.
By ALEXA ZOELLNER azoellner@shawmedia.com
OREGON – A request by Constellation Energy Generation to rezone 658.8 acres of company-owned land around the Byron Generating Station has failed to earn a positive recommendation from the Ogle County Regional Planning Commission.
Constellation, which owns the nuclear station, is requesting that 17 land parcels in Rockvale and Marion townships be rezoned from AG-1 Agricultural to I-1 Industrial. Half of one parcel is zoned R-2 Single-Family Residential. The company also is asking that data centers be added as a special use in I-1 Industrial districts.
“The zoning that’s already there is like patchwork,” said Benjamin Schus-
The main reason Constellation is seeking the rezoning is to be able to better market the land – all of which is vacant – to potential developers, Schuster said. Any development would comply with Ogle County zoning regulations, he said.
On June 27, the Ogle County Regional Planning Commission voted 3-2 to recommend that the Ogle County Board deny Constellation’s petition.
RPC members Jeffrey Franklin, Dale Flanagan and Dennis Probasco voted to deny the petition. Chairman Paul W. White and Vice Chairman Wayne Reising voted against denying it. Commission member Ryan Reeverts was absent.
The RPC is the first of three bodies before which the petition will go before the Ogle County Board makes a final decision. The other two bodies are the Ogle County Zoning Board of Appeals and the Supervisor of Assessments and Planning and Zoning Committee.
“If we zone it that way, you could build really anything you want to,” Flanagan told the Constellation representatives. “I just feel like we give you an open-ended book as to what you can do with this property [if the zoning change is approved].”
Potential land uses for which Constellation is interested in finding developers are hydrogen manufacturing and processing, aviation fuel manufacturing and data centers, Schuster said.
Constellation is not seeking zoning approval for any specific developments as part of the rezoning process, he said.
“We’d be coming back once we identify users to partner with you, review site plans for various parcels, have the full process with public hearings and so forth,” Schuster told RPC members. “We want to respect that process.”
The kinds of developments Constellation is proposing would be a benefit to the county long term, Reising said.
“I think it’s going to give the county
more stability for what we have already because it’s going to be more beneficial to have a tenant or co-partnership in there,” he said. “We don’t want to see a time come when the [nuclear] plant isn’t competitive on the open market.”
Franklin said his concern was the amount of farmland that would be zoned industrial. There are fights over losing five acres of farmland and this would be rezoning more than 600 acres of it, he said.
“I personally would like them to come and say, ‘We’d like to develop this piece, this piece and this piece,’ and go piecemeal,” Franklin said.
That might make it harder for Constellation to market the land, he said, but rezoning all 17 parcels at once is “too much of a broad stroke for me.”
The Ogle County ZBA meets at 6 p.m. July 9 in the third floor County Board room of the Old Ogle County Courthouse, 105 S. Fifth St., Oregon.
Both the RPC and ZBA recommendations will be reviewed by the supervisor of assessments and Planning and Zoning Committee and then sent to the full Ogle County Board for a final decision.
Payton Felix
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
P.E.O. Chapter IU announces scholarship winners
OREGON – Oregon P.E.O. Chapter IU announced recent scholarship recipients.
Chapter IU’s Star Scholarship winner was Teagan Champley who will attend Florida Tech in the fall. Chapter IU awarded two locally established scholarships to Emily Waters, who is attending Gustavus Adolphus in St. Peter, Minnesota, and Oliva Thomas, who will attend Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
The International P.E.O. Star Scholarship was established to provide nonrenewable scholarships to exceptional high school graduating women to attend accredited post-secondary educational institutions in the U.S. and Canada.
The Philanthropic Educational Organization is a group of women who are purposeful and passionate about celebrating, supporting and motivating women. The mission is to help women around the world advance through education.
Work to begin on Freeport Road in Ogle, Whiteside counties
DIXON – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that construction on Freeport Road in Ogle and Whiteside counties will begin Monday, July 8, weather permitting.
The work zone is from East Lynn Boulevard in Sterling to West Sterling Road south of Polo. Work will patch, mill and resurface the road. There will be daily lane
closures controlled by flaggers during the $3.3 million project, which is scheduled to be completed in November.
Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. To avoid the work area, when feasible, use of alternate routes should be considered. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey
the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment. Over the next six years, IDOT is planning to improve more than 3,000 miles of highway and almost 10 million square feet of bridge deck as part of the Rebuild Illinois capital program, which is investing $33.2 billion into all modes of transportation.
– Shaw Local News Network
Photo provided by Pam Steele
Pictured from left are Pam Steele of Chapter IU, scholarship winners Emily Watters, Teagan Champley and Olivia Thomas and Jody Thomas of Chapter IU.
Encore! Mt. Morris Art Show seeking entries
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
MOUNT MORRIS – Encore! Mt. Morris’ August art show in the Old Sandstone Gallery is calling for entries. The deadline to send in an application of up to three pieces is July 19. The show theme is “We Live in the Middle,” an art show featuring all kinds of media.
Encore! Mt. Morris’ third gallery
show of the 2024 season might include “middle” landscape scenes from your county, state or country (the Midwest), “middle” family portraits or your idea of “middle.” Entry fee is $20.
Artists may submit up to three images of their original works for consideration. Applications are available online at encoremtmorris.com. Click on the Fine Art Show registration button. You may fill out the application online (preferred; attach your digital
picture and entry fee) or print the application and send your packet to the Village Hall, 105 W. Lincoln St., Mount Morris. Additional printed applications are available at the Village Hall for those without internet access.
A jury will select pieces to be included in the show and a judge will select the awards, which will be announced on opening night, Aug. 2. For more information, visit the website, contact mollyb@encoremtmorris.
com or leave a message at Village Hall at 815-734-6425.
Encore! Mt. Morris is composed of volunteers committed to developing Mount Morris into a unique, thriving rural and cultural arts destination in northwest Illinois. Volunteers and donations are welcome. Learn more at EncoreMtMorris.com.
The Encore! multi-purpose art gallery is located on the historic Mt. Morris College campus.
contact@shawmedia.com
MOUNT MORRIS – Summer is the perfect time for kids to enjoy the arts. Encore! Mt. Morris, a nonprofit arts organization in Mount Morris, is sponsoring arts experiences from 10 a.m. to noon July 22-24 at the Allure of Pinecrest Grove community center on South McKendrie Avenue.
Classes are:
Music class with instructor Beth Nelson Chase. Kindergarten through second grade in fall 2024.
Music and movement sessions will include interactive singing, movement with various rhythms and musical styles. Kids also will have an opportunity to learn beginning musical notation and play rhythm instruments in accompaniment to songs and recorded music. These music fundamentals will be used to teach concepts, communicate messages, explore abilities, enhance creativity and have fun.
Visual Arts class with instructors Sharon Asp and Kelly Handschuh. Third through fifth grade in fall 2024. Students will focus on creating
their own masterpieces by experimenting with media such as printmaking, cut paper, pencil drawing, pastels and painting.
Theater class with instructor David Sheeley and Performance Arts Guild friends, July 22-23. A third class will be held in the evening later in the week. Sixth through eighth grade in fall 2024.
The Performing Arts Guild invites youth to attend a three-day event in which they will have the opportunity to learn the process of creating a play from the planning stage to when the show is performed. They’ll experience
how a play is selected, the audition process, the concept of set construction, areas of the stage, props that are needed and costume design and selection. They’ll become familiar with the people who work behind the scenes as members of the production team.
To register for the classes, go to encoremtmorris.com and click on the Kids Summer Classes button or fill out the form at Mount Morris Village Hall.
For more information, go to the website, contact mollyb@encoremtmorris.com or leave a message at Village Hall at 815-734-6425.
Oregon’s Deborah Schmid guided Hawks to regional title
German foreign exchange student set single-season
By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com
Deborah Schmid was the key that helped unlock the Oregon High School girls soccer team’s potential this spring.
Schmid, a foreign exchange student from southwest Germany near Stuttgart, set program single-season records for goals (37) and assists (18) for the Hawks.
Whether she was beating defenses by herself or getting her teammates involved offensively, her unselfish play helped guide Oregon to an 18-2 record and its third regional title. The 18 wins are a season high for the eightyear girls program.
Schmid, the 2024 Sauk Valley Media Girls Soccer Player of the Year, was named All-State by the Illinois High School Soccer Coaches Association, as well as a first-team selection in the Big Northern Conference after leading the
league in scoring.
The midfielder let her game lead the way.
“Her field awareness was fantastic for us,” Oregon coach Seger Larson said. “She unlocked the potential of everybody else on the team.”
The Hawks have been solid in recent years, but scoring goals remained a challenge.
Schmid turned it into a strength.
She had a role in 55 goals as the team scored more than 100 goals in 20 games. Its previous high was 56. Katelyn Byerley held the previous single-season scoring record.
“She’s hardworking and wants to get better,” Larson said of Schmid. “She’s coachable, a team player and wants the team to have success over her own success.
“She’s a better person than she is a soccer player.”
Schmid said it’s been an awesome experience playing with a new team and new players. She’s a captain on her team in Germany, where she will have two years of prep school left.
“It was just great to get a new point of view,” she said. “I was really honored to be able to help the team out.”
Larson said Schmid has cared more about the success of others instead of
individual glory. She’s been helping with soccer camp before departing at the end of June. She has been staying with the host Rufer family.
“It’s been one of the best years of my life,” Schmid said. “I had a great host family that supported me. I really loved the year and I’m really thankful for everything I’ve been able to do here and experience and meet all the new people.”
Although she only played one season with the team, she made an impact. Larson said Schmid worked hard in the weight room and at getting faster and also helped the younger players.
The example she set is something the team should continue to benefit from. Larson said junior Anna Stender was one whose game grew beside Schmid’s play. Stender posted 28 goals and 14 assists, good for second best on the team. Teagan Champley had 11 goals and Kenna Wubbena had 14 assists this season.
Schmid loves scoring goals, but she was just as impressive raising the play of her teammates.
“That’s always a good feeling to see the joy when they score the ball,” she said. “It was great to bring the joy to them and help them out.”
Earleen Hinton file photo
Oregon’s Deborah Schmid (right) chases down a pass against Rockford Lutheran in a game April 4 at Oregon Park West.
Oregon, Rochelle to combine for boys, girls tennis
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
High school students in Oregon and Rochelle will be joining forces on the tennis courts.
The Oregon School Board on June 17 approved a two-year intergovermental agreement to co-op boys and girls tennis.
ROCKFORD – Ironman, the global leader in long-distance triathlon, announced June 24 that it will host its first event in Illinois with the Ironman 70.3 Rockford-Illinois triathlon in 2025, 2026 and 2027.
The triathlon is scheduled to debut Sunday, June 22, 2025, with a swim, bike and run course that will take athletes through Rockford and the countryside north of the city.
“Rockford offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation, culture and history that make it the perfect venue for a new Midwestern Ironman 70.3 event. General registration opens on July 1, 2024, at www.ironman.com/ im703-rockford-illinois,” according to a news release.
“We are excited to bring this new Ironman 70.3 event to this unique and beautiful city in northern Illinois in 2025,” said Eric Atnip, race director for the Ironman 70.3 Rockford-Illinois triathlon. “Rockford has shown itself to be an appealing Midwestern destination city with an abundance of outdoor recreation. We are excited to partner with GoRockford to offer this exciting new option on the North American Ironman 70.3 Series circuit for our many dedicated athletes and new ones excited to race in Illinois. We can’t wait for athletes to come experience this welcoming community and see what makes Rockford so special.”
“Ironman 70.3 athletes push themselves to continually improve, to be better each day, to not settle for less than their personal best. The city of Rockford is like that, too. Rockford is a
Oregon currently does not have a tennis team and this venture will be the first sport to co-op with Rochelle. The Hawks co-op with Byron High School for boys and girls swimming and with Winnebago for boys and girls bowling.
The Rochelle Township High School board also approved the program on June 17.
Ironman coming to Rockford in 2025 with new 70.3 triathlon
city on the move and gaining speed all the time,” said John Groh, president/ CEO of GoRockford, the city’s destination marketing organization. “We’re thrilled to partner with Ironman and look forward to welcoming their athletes and fans to our city.”
Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara also commented on the announcement.
“I am thrilled another internationally recognized company sees the value and draw of Rockford,” McNamara said. “Companies like Hard Rock International, the Chicago Blackhawks and now Ironman are choosing our community for major events and investments. This speaks volumes about Rockford’s strength, appeal and reputation as a prime destination.
“Ironman, welcome to Rockford.”
State tourism officials also praised the decision.
“The Ironman 70.3 Rockford-Illinois triathlon is a fantastic addition to our state’s sports tourism industry, bringing a significant boost to the Rockford community and its local businesses,” said Daniel Thomas, deputy director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism. “This prestigious race was made possible by DCEO’s Tourism Incentive Grant Program, which aims to attract new out-of-state events to Illinois to increase tourism and highlight the state as a top sports travel destination. We look forward to welcoming athletes and visitors from around the world to experience the charm and outdoor recreation that Rockford offers.”
See TRIATHLON, page 13
Grants available for waste reduction and recycling
4 p.m. Friday, July 26.
OREGON – Waste Reduction/Recycling Grants for 2024 are available to Ogle County businesses, schools, churches and nonprofit groups wanting to establish or improve on waste reduction and recycling programs and services.
The grants are up to $1,000 and funds are limited so they will be awarded on a competitive basis in amounts from $100 to $1,000 in two rounds or until funds are depleted. The matching fund grant pays 80% of the total project cost up to $1,000 and the applicant must provide a minimum 20% match of the total project cost.
The grants are being offered through the Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department.
The deadline for submitting applications for the first round of grants is
• TRIATHLON
Continued from page 12
Rockford was chosen because of its “pioneering sports history, vibrant cultural scene and architecturally distinct buildings and neighborhoods that are set in a beautiful natural setting with abundant parks, nature preserves and four recreational rivers that run through the area,” according to the release. “Combined, these amenities make the city perfect for hosting the Ironman 70.3
OBITUARY
M. CLAUDIA ROBERTSON
Born: May 26, 1939 in Oregon, IL
Died: July 25, 2024 in Oregon, IL
Claudia Robertson, 85, of Oregon, died June 27, 2024 at the Oregon Living and Rehabilitation Center following a long illness. She is survived by her daughter, Melanie (Mark) Webber of Knoxville, Tennessee, and two stepsons, Francis (Tamara) Robertson of Apple Valley, Minnesota, and Jon Robertson of Fayetteville, Georgia. Claudia is also survived by a grandson, Mark Bruce Webber, four step- grandchildren, Sarah (Michael) Powell, Judson Robertson, Colin (Katherine) Robertson, Susan (Christopher) Barkley, and five step-great-grandchildren, Sophia Powell, Alexander Powell, August Robertson, Malcolm Robertson, Sterling Robertson. She is also survived by her sister, Patricia (Glenn) Stroh, of Oregon. She was preceded in death
“The application for the grants is simple and flexible. Businesses could use grant funds to help purchase waste reduction and recycling materials and equipment such as collection bins, carts, balers and storage containers. Equipment needed to switch from disposable packaging to reusable packaging for products and supplies could also be considered. Businesses are encouraged to consider projects to reduce food waste or implement food waste composting programs,” an OCSWMD official said in a news release.
Waste hauling companies could use grant funds to improve the quantity and quality of materials collected in their curbside recycling collection programs. This could be done through promotional efforts, instructional stickers for carts and bins, direct mail and other educational efforts.
Schools may seek funds for special
Rockford-Illinois triathlon.”
About the course
The Ironman 70.3 Rockford-Illinois triathlon will kick off with a fast 1.2mile swim in the Rock River that runs north to south through the center of downtown Rockford.
Athletes will enter the water near The Rock Guardians of Rockford, a popular public sculpture by Terese Agnew of four “Rockmen” standing guard over the city.
Once out of the water, athletes will
projects that will further a student’s understanding of how to reduce the amount of trash sent to the landfill. The requests may be for materials and equipment such as recycling bins/carts, videos, books, worm (vermicomposting) bins, composters or other waste reduction or recycling equipment.
Municipalities seeking to improve commercial, curbside or multifamily recycling programs are encouraged to apply. Previous municipal grant awardees have bought public recycling bins, toters and other infrastructure to improve recycling in their communities.
“These are just examples and applicants are encouraged to find innovative ways to reduce waste and increase what is recycled. The grants may not be used to pay for ongoing expenses such as staffing, collection and hauling costs. Priority will be given to new applicants,” according to the release.
transition to the 56-mile single loop bike course that takes athletes through and north of Rockford. Athletes will be treated to the rolling hills and scenic farmland in the surrounding area while also passing through the quaint village of Rockton.
The 13.1-mile run course will take runners from the transition area at Davis Park on a two-loop journey on the east and west banks of the Rock River. Athletes can expect river views, park greenways and scenic neighborhoods on their way to a finish line in
The application for the grants is simple and flexible. Businesses could use grant funds to help purchase waste reduction and recycling materials and equipment such as collection bins, carts, balers and storage containers.”
For more information or to request an application, contact the Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department at 815-732-4020, solidwaste@oglecountyil.gov, or visit www. oglecountyil.gov to download the application.
downtown Rockford just a couple of blocks away from transition.
The 2025 Ironman 70.3 Rockford-Illinois triathlon will offer qualifying slots to the 2025 VinFast Ironman 70.3 World Championship race in Marbella, Spain.
For more information on 2025 Ironman 70.3 Rockford-Illinois triathlon, visit www.ironman.com/im703-rockford-illinois. Athlete inquiries may be directed to Illinois70.3@ironman.com.
To learn more about the Ironman brands, visit www.ironman.com.
by her husband, Bruce M. Robertson, who died in 2004. Mary Claudia Nice was born in Oregon, Illinois, on May 26, 1939, the daughter of Frederick and Verva (McPherson) Nice. She graduated from Oregon Community High School in 1957 and attended Itasca Community College in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. She married Bruce M. Robertson on July 15, 1961 and was a lifelong resident of Oregon. Claudia was employed in the City Clerk’s office of Oregon for many years where she managed the water accounts for the City of Oregon. Claudia loved her family and she \was a devoted mother, stepmother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She also loved cats, including her latest companion, Mittens, as well as reading, and picnicking with family at the local state parks.
A private family service of interment will be held at Riverview Cemetery in Oregon on Monday, July 1, 2024. Memorials may be made in her name to the Granny Rose Animal Shelter in Dixon, Illinois. To leave an online condolence or plant a tree in her honor please visit www.farrellhollandgale.com
• NASHIONAL
Continued from page 3
That variety of design and functionality was evident at the show.
Nash vehicles were built in Kenosha, Wisconsin, starting in 1916 and carry the name of Charles Williams Nash, who was born in Cortland, Illinois, in 1864. Nash was the fifth president for General Motors before forming Nash Motors in 1916.
Nash Motors existed from 1917 to 1954, when the company merged with American Motors Co.
The oldest Nash at the show was a 1918 683 Cloverleaf, owned by Reggie and Cindi Nash (yes, Nash) from Richmond, Virginia.
“I bought the car 50 years ago in Philadelphia,” Reggie said. “It was originally sold by Conrad Brothers in Scranton, Pennsylvania.”
Saturday’s show also included big touring cars, coupes and large Ambassador models. Representing a more recent AMC line was a mighty green 1972 Gremlin, owned by Matt Woodstrup of Sycamore.
Organizers also welcomed other makes and models to join in the show
and Jim and Dawn Somers of Lindenwood, Illinois, obliged by bringing their 1911 Austin model 45HP. The large touring beauty was bought by WM. R. Somers at the Chicago Auto Show on May 29, 1911, and has remained in the family for 113 years.
Jim Dworschack of Soldiers, Wisconsin, the founder of the Nash Car Club of America, drove his 1926 Nash 165 miles to Saturday’s event.
“It was a very nice drive,” he said.
He praised the Oregon-area effort in helping stage this year’s event.
“We had so much cooperation from the city, park district and, of course,
Joe and Dawn Somers of
drive their 1911 Austin touring car past the Stronghold Castle while taking part in the Nashional Car Show at the Stronghold Camp & Retreat Center north of Oregon. FAR LEFT: This hood ornament graces a 1933 Nash convertible, owned by Dan and Nancy Hill of Spencer, Wisconsin, at the Nashional Car Show.
Stronghold,” he said. “The Oregon Chamber helped direct us to area attractions. Everyone seemed to like the area.”
On June 28, some club members drove to Nash’s family farm on Route 38 before visiting the Ellwood House Museum in DeKalb, built for barbed wire entrepreneur Isaac Ellwood, and the Reagan Home in Dixon before heading to the lodge at White Pines State Park.
Dworschack said the “Nashional” is held in a different location each year, but may come back to Oregon.
“We have a history of moving around, but it is certainly possible,” he said.
A 1918 Nash 683 Cloverleaf, owned by Reggie and Cindi Nash of Richmond, Virginia, was one of the oldest Nash vehicles at the Nashional Car Show on June 29 at the Stronghold Camp & Retreat Center.
Photos by Earleen Hinton
This 1948 Nash Super 600 owned by Chris and Molly Detwiter of New Stanley, Pennsylvania, was decked out with additional displays at the Nashional Car Show on June 29. The car’s price from a Pennsylvania dealership was $1,908.50.
ABOVE: Vintage Nash cars line the lawn June 29 at the Stronghold Camp & Retreat Center north of Oregon. LEFT:
Lindenwood
Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle reports the following activity:
June 24
Deputies responded to a single-vehicle crash involving two juveniles with possible injuries in the 5200 block of South Watertown Road about 11:32 a.m. An investigation showed a 16-year-old was driving a Chevrolet Impala when they failed to negotiate the curve. The vehicle entered the east ditch and struck a tree. Both juveniles were evaluated for minor injuries by Oregon EMS at the scene.
June 25
Fredy N. Herrerra Jr., 31, of Dixon, was arrested on an outstanding Lee County warrant and cited for speeding and
• SAFRANEK
Continued from page 7
Nathaniel was a first grade student at Oregon Elementary School. He was found unresponsive and not breathing at 2:30 a.m. Feb. 17, 2021, in his bed at home in the 400 block of South 10th
operating a motor vehicle without insurance after a traffic stop in the 12000 block of North Baileyville Road. Herrerra Jr. also was issued a warning for expired driver’s license. Herrerra Jr. was taken to the Ogle County jail for the Lee County warrant.
Christopher K. Valdivieso, 32, of Dixon, was arrested for domestic battery after deputies responded to the 200 block of Mulberry Lane in rural Dixon about 1:30 a.m. Valdivieso was taken to the Ogle County jail and held pending a court appearance.
Derrick Pryor, 36, of DeKalb, was arrested for driving while license suspended after a traffic stop in the area of South Woodlawn and East South
Street. He was pronounced dead later that day at KSB Hospital in Dixon.
According to records obtained by Shaw Local in a Freedom of Information Act request, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services visited the house about a dozen times over two years, following up on five reports of suspected abuse and neglect.
PROPERTY TRANSFERS FOR OGLE COUNTY
Filed June 22-28
Warranty deeds
Michael R. Berogan to Thomas W. Bryer, 311 W. Center St., Mt. Morris, $110,000.
Brix M. Byers and Emily A. Byers to David Jefery Brown and Kelly Elaine Brown, 2671 E. Breckenridge Dr., Byron, $635,000.
Maria Pena and Javier Aguirre to Fajo Properties LLC, 16989 E. Ritchie Road, Rochelle, $850,000.
Derek Troha and Gabrielle Troha to Winter Harkins and Lizmar Nieves, 715 Kaskaskia Dr., Dixon, and 713 Kaskaskia Dr., Dixon, $220,000.
Paul H. Mayer to Satin Rose Blair and Kolby Wes Burrow, 5599 S. Greenland Dr., Rochelle, $210,000.
REM Enterprises LLC Real Estate to Steven Kolanowski and Shea Kolanowski, 309 Erickson Road, Rochelle, $10.
Kevin J. McElmurry to Andrew Grant, 217 W. Willis Ave., Rochelle, $185,000.
Blaine Hicks, Lloyd Blaine Hicks and Ferrell Kennedy to Juan A. Garcia Pena, 102 Moluf Dr., Rochelle, $26,000.
Lou Rene Everest to Ronald L. Crisp and Dixie J. Crisp, 30 Tilton Manor Dr., Unit 103, Rochelle, $64,000.
Ronald L. Crisp and Dixie J. Crisp to Lou Rene Everest, 30 Tilton Manor Dr., Unit
Malta roads at 10:40 p.m. Pryor also was cited for expired registration. Pryor was released on a notice to appear and given a court date of 9 a.m. July 10.
June 29
David Aarvig, 51, of Byron, was arrested for driving while license revoked after a traffic stop in the 1000 block of south Illinois Route 251 at 6:19 p.m. Aarvig also was cited for a traffic control violation. Aarvig was released on a notice to appear and given a future court date. Deputies responded to a two-vehicle crash at Illinois Route 72 and Rural Road in Stillman Valley about 7:24 p.m. An investigation showed Madelyn Adkins, 18, of Monroe Center, was driving a 2014 Volkswagen Jetta west on Route 72
Each time, DCFS closed the case after finding no indications of parental wrongdoing.
Nathaniel was 4 when the allegations first surfaced.
Redington ruled in November 2022 that Safranek was fit to stand trial after reviewing a mental health evaluation requested by the defense. Redington
when Adkins made an improper left turn and collided with a Ford Explorer driven by Jessica Klecka, 34, of Byron. Both drivers were treated at the scene by Stillman Valley Fire Protection District EMS for minor injuries. Adkins was cited for improper left turn.
Ryan Cushing, 44, of Clinton, Iowa, was arrested for driving while license revoked after a traffic stop at Illinois Route 26 and Coffman Road at 8:04 p.m. Cushing also was cited for expired registration. Cushing was taken to the Ogle County jail, processed and released on a notice to appear.
Charges are accusations and all people are presumed innocent unless proved guilty in a court of law.
agreed Friday to exclude Safranek’s mental health records.
Safrenek has been held in the Ogle County Correctional Center since her arrest in April 2021.
Safrenek’s trial is scheduled to begin Aug. 12 with jury selection. A final pretrial hearing is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. July 25.
105, Rochelle, $48,000.
Joanne Coan, deceased by heir, to Brian C. Leifheit and Stacy M. Leifheit, one parcel, $0.
Steven P. Engel and Julie B. Engel to Breyana Rodriguez and Ryne Rodriguez, 515 N. Woodland Dr., Dixon, $235,000.
Ronald W. Dicus and Angelia L. Dicus to
Jacob A. Schneider and Jennifer M. Anderson, 1055 N. Second St., Rochelle, $257,000.
Jacob A. Schneider and Jennifer M. Anderson to Judith Ellen Reizer, 114 N. Main St., Rochelle, $166,900.
Patrick M. Shaulis and Kayla L. Shaulis to Chad Groenhagen and Katelind Groenhagen, one lot on Orchid Lane in Oregon, $42,000.
Daryl J. Messenger and Rick L. Messenger to Rachel Lorden, 217 E. River View Dr., Byron, $185,000.
John B. Roe IV and Irene M. Roe to Stephen D. Gabriel and Lisa A. Gabriel, 8107 S. Main St., Dixon, $317,500. Mill Creek Inc. to John Dunne, one parcel in Byron Township, $18,000.
Quit claim deeds
Peter J. Orner, trustee, and Peter J. Orner Declaration Trust to Orner Family Farm LLC, one parcel in Lafayette Township, $0.
John A. Orner, trustee, Ann K. Orner,
trustee, John A. Orner Revocable Trust, John T. Orner and Thomas E. Orner to Orner Family Farm LLC, one parcel in Lafayette Township, $0.
Jerry C. Bauer and Madeline H. Bauer to David Bauer and Michael Bauer, 7498 W. Lowell Park Road, Mt. Morris, $0.
Jeffrey S. Donaldson to Jeffrey S. Donaldson and Ana L. Donaldson, 403 E. Colden St., Polo, $0.
Hickory Ridge III LLC to Haywell LLC Westwood, one parcel in Flagg Township, $0.
Hickory Ridge III LLC to Haywell LLC Westwood, one parcel in Flagg Township, $0.
Andrea J. Mullens to Jason R. Mullens, 653 Harvest Dr., Dixon, $0. Trustee deeds
Kathleen R. Falk, trustee, Kristine A. Cornford, trustee, Kelly M. Arnold, trustee, and Trust 92790 to Roseland Cemetery Association, one parcel in Monroe Township, $0.
Itasca Bank & Trust Co., trustee, Trust 11881 and Itasca Bank & Trust Co. Trust 11881 to Kenneth P. Johnson and David W. Rushford, one parcel on N. Fourth St., Oregon, and 305 N. Fourth St., Oregon, $0.
Shea A. Bierman, trustee, and Steven Bierman Land Trust to Kathleen A. Bierman, trustee, and Bierman Land
Trust, 305 S. Walnut St., Stillman Valley, $0.
Executors
Martin Carl Wittig, deceased by executor, to Timothy R. Wiltfang, 1222 W. Townline Road, Leaf River, $0. Deeds in trust
Garrett R. Rude, Olivia M. Rude and Olivia M. Bouback to Garrett R. Rude, trustee, Olivia M. Rude, trustee, Garrett R. Rude Living Trust and Olivia M. Rude Living Trust, 9618 W. Fairmont Road, Polo, $0.
Warranty deeds in trust
Stuart L. Meyers and Joyce K. Meyers to Stuart L. Meyers, trustee, Joyce K. Meyers, trustee, and Stuart & Joyce K. Meyers Trust, 9748 W. Townline Road, Forreston, $0.
Stuart L. Meyers to Stuart L. Meyers, trustee, Joyce K. Meyers, trustee, and Stuart L. & Joyce K. Meyers Trust, 9744 W. Townline Road, Forreston, and one parcel in Lincoln Township, $0.
Thomas A. Holder to Thomas A. Holder, trustee, and Thomas A. Holder Trust, 7378 N. Stillman Road, Stillman Valley, $0.
Transfer on death instrument
Cindy S. Beitel to Eric R. Beitel and Chad A. Beitel, 422 E. Third St., Byron, $0.
Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office
CLASSIFIED
AUCTION
After a lifetime of farming, Dave has decided to retire. This clean line of well maintained, low hour machiner y will be sold at public auctio n located at 13909 W Eagle Po in t Road, Polo, IL 61064
Directions: In Polo, IL on Rt 26, Tur n West on Dixon Street (Eagle Point Road) for approx. 1 mile to Galena Trail Road. North 1/2 mile to Eagle Point Road then West to sale site OR from Freeport Road turn East on Eagle Point Road to sale site approx. 1 mile Watch for Auction signs. See salebill & pictures on auctionzip.com - Public Auctio n Service or Lenny Bryson auctioneer or EquipmentFacts
TUESDAY, JULY 16, 2024
Will start with Live Auction at 10:30 AM and with online bidd ing for machinery at 11:00 AM
Online Bidding available through EquipmentFacts www.EquipmentFacts.com
For registration questions, please contact EquipmentFacts at 908-788-2025.
Online Buyer Premium 4.5% charged. Live Simulcast bidding day of sale and prebidding available ahead of auction.
TRACTORS - COMBINE
2012 C-IH Steig er 450 4WD, 4 SVC, autosteer , FM 750 monitor & r eceiver, Michelin 710-70R42 tires w/duals, 1470 hrs (2GF130442); 2009 C-IH 275 FWA, autosteer, 750 monitor & receive r, lg 1000 PTO, 480/80R50 rears w /duals, 420/85R34 front, 3956 hrs (29R203567); 2011 C-IH 235 FWA, all 3 PTO's, 480-80R50 rears, 380-85R38 front, 2840 hours (ZBRDO4660); IH 1466, open station, 18.4x38 tires, 9565 hrs (2650116U008337); 2014 C-IH 5130 combine, Pro 700 display, Rock Trap, chopper, 1905 eng hours, 1480 Sep hours (YDG011063) ser viced after 2023 season; 2022 C-IH 4406 corn head, HH Sensor, chopping knives, used 2 seasons; Killbros 25' head cart; 2018 Kaw asaki Mule PRO- FXT 4x4, 4 seater, 185 hrs; 2018 Kawasaki Mule SX Special Editio n, 4X4, 337 hrs; 2015 Bravo enclosed trailer 20', rear drop door, GVRW 9900 lbs
MACHINERY
C-IH 330 True Tandem Turbo 42' (4DD068742); C-IH 2150, 12-30” planter, vacuum CCS, electric drive row shutoffs, pneumatic row cleaners, Pro 700 monitor, used one season; JD 400 rotary hoe 30', end transpo rt; JD 400 rotary hoe 15'; Brent 757 gravity box & gear, roll tarp, (B34580109); Brent 657 gravity bo x & gear, roll tarp (B32360178); Br ent 644 gr avity box & gear (B21590128); Brent 644 gravity box & gear (B21590131); Clark 4 box seed tender w/talc applicator; JD grain drill, single disk, grass seed, hyd lift; Glenco 9 shk disk chisel; 2017 woods 1800 batwing 15', 1000 PTO; 2013 Lee DT975 fuel trailer , tandem axle, DEF tank, 12V fuel pump; C-IH 1830 3pt cultivator 1230”; Better Built 4950 manure tank, 23.1x26 tires, top fill, rear injector knives; Better Built manure pump 8', 3pt; C-IH 1580 manure spre ader, 2 beaters, slop gate, 1000 PTO; Kewanee 500 elevator ; JD 640 hay rake; Farm King hopper auger 10”, hyd drive; WinPower 25/15PTS Generator, 540 PTO; 1000 gal LP tank on running gear; 6R corn reel off IH 2206 head
MISCELLANEOUS
Me tal cattle loading chute; cattle lick tank; misc gates; 1600 gal poly w ater tank; TroyBilt Super Bronco rototiller; DEF pump, 12V; Engine & Hydraulic oil bulk storage tanks; overhead fuel barrel; hayrack of misc tools.
DAVE & LAURIE SHERRICK - OWNERS
PHONE: 815-632-9041 NO CALLS AFTER 7: 00 PM
Auctioneers: Polo, IL 6 1064 Cle rk s: Public Auction Service
Lenny Bryson (IL#0440000158) 815-946-4120 Lyle (IL#0440000 185) & Sheryl & John Hopkins Mark Ebert (IL#0440000341) 815-441-1251, 815-946-2660 or 815-994-1836
Terms - Cash, good check, Master Card, Visa, Discover and Amer ican Express credit cards All items must be settled for d ay of sale Number system will be use d, have proper ID. Not responsible for accidents or merchandise after sold.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE, STATE OF ILLINOIS
PENNYMAC LOAN SERVICES, LLC, Pla intiff(s), vs. STEVEN BLOMBERG, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Defendant(s)
Case No. 24 FC 9 NOTICE OF SHE RIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment heretofore entered by the said Court in the above entitled cause, the She riff of Ogle County, Illinois, will on August 9, 2024, at the hour of 10:00 AM, at the OG LE PUBLIC SAFETY COMPLEX, 202 S 1ST STREET, OREGON, IL 61061, sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, all and singular, the following desc ribed premises and real estate in the said Judgment mentioned, situate d in the County of Ogle, State of Illinois, or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment, to wit: Common Address: 913 N. 15TH ST., ROCHELLE, IL 61068
P.I .N. 24-23-276-007
Contact the Law Office of IRA T. NEVEL, LLC, 175 North Franklin, Suite 201, Chicago, Illinois 60606, (312) 357-1125, for further infor mation
The terms of the sale are: Ten percent (10% ) due by cash or certified funds at the time of the sale and balance is due within 24 hours of the sale The subject property is subject to real estate taxes, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "as is" condition. The sale is further subject to confir mation by the Court.
The prop erty is improved by a Single Family Residence, together with all buildings and impr ovements thereon, and the tenements, hereditaments and appurtenants thereunto belonging and will not be available for inspection prior to sale
If this prope rty is a condomi nium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, othe r than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fee s required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this prope rty is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
LAW OFFICES OF IRA T. NEVEL, LLC
Attorney for Plaintiff
Ira T. Nevel - ARDC #6185808
Timothy R. Yueill - ARDC #6192172
Greg Elsnic - ARDC #6242847
Aaron N evel - ARDC #6322724
Andrew Chu - ARDC #6285924
175 North Frankli n St. Suite 201 Chicago, Illinois 60606 (312) 357-1125 Pleadings@nevellaw.com SL # 24-00123
July 5, 12, 19, 2024 944051
REAL ESTAT
LAKEVIEW
Pla intiff, vs. UNKNOW CORSON REVENUE; REX CORSON CLAIMAN Defendan
PUBLIC entered in August 9, Oregon, mortgaged P.I .N. 24-25-329-020. Commonly The improv subject m purchase by subsect Sale terms funds. No For informati Schneid, (708) 668-4410 I3247202
918-3676 fred.b.iwen estate@gma June 28, July
STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FI FTEENTH JUDICIAL
CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE
In re the E state of:
FREDERIC K
BARR IWEN, Deceased
2023 PR 22 CLAIM NOTICE
Notice is given of the death of FREDERICK BARR
tors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 5/18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 1975, as amended, whichever date is earlier
Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above shall be barred.
Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Circuit Clerk, Ogle County Judicial Center, 106 South 5th Street, Or egon, IL 61061 - or with the esta te legal representative, or both. Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative within 10 days after i t has been filed.
IWEN of Grand Detour Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on June 2, 2023, to ANTHONY BACA., as Independent Administrator, 11067 Culdesac Way, Boise, ID 83714. Claims against the estate may be filed within six (6) months from the date of first publication, or within three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 5/18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 1975, as amended, whichever date is earlier Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above shall be barred.
OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS
In the Matter of:
JOE C. E VANS, Deceased
No. 2024-PR-21 CLAIM NOTICE
JOE C. E VANS, Deceased No. 2024-PR-21
CLAIM NOTICE
Notice is given of the death of JOE C EVANS of Byron, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on June 6, 2024 to RICHARD T. EVANS, as Independent Administrator whose attorneys are WILLIAMS McCARTHY LLP, 120 W. State St., P.O Box 219, Rockford, IL 61105. The estate will be administered without cour t supervision, unless under Section 28-4 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested pers on terminate s independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Clerk.
sentative, or both, on or before December 23, 2024, or within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act, whichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above is barred.
Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney wi thin 10 days after i t has been filed.
RICHARD T EVANS
Independent Administrator
June 21, 28, July 5, 2024
JEAN RUCKER of Polo, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on June 14, 2024 to KEVIN HACHMEISTER, as Independent Executor whose attorneys are WILLIAMS McCARTHY LLP, 120 W. State St., P.O Box 219, Rockford, IL 61105. The estate will be administered without cour t supervision, unless under Section 28-4 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested pers on terminate s independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Clerk.
Oregon, IL 61061 or with the representative, or both, on or before December 30, 2024, or within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act, whichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney wi thin 10 days after i t has been filed.
COUNTY OF OG LE, ILLINOIS
In the Matter of MARY JE AN RUCKER, Deceased No. 2024-PR-35
to the Will in open Court, or other evidence, as provided in Section 6-21 of the Probate Act 1975 (755 ILCS 5/6-21).
Attorney Adam M. Fleming
NOTICE TO HEIRS Notice is given to WILLIAM E NICODEMUS and TIMOTHY R. NICODEMUS who are an heir in the above proceeding to proba te a will and whose name or address i s not stated in the petition to admit the wi ll to probate, that an Order was entered by the court on June 14, 2024, admitting the will to probate
Williams McCarthy Attorneys for Independent Executor
June 28, July 5, 12, 2024
Notice is given of the death of JOE C EVANS of Byron, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on June 6, 2024 to RICHARD T. EVANS, as Independent Administrator whose attorneys are WILLIAMS McCARTHY LLP, 120 W. State St., P.O. Box 219, Rockford, IL 61105.
Defendants,
Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Circuit Clerk, Ogle County Judicial Center, 106 South 5th Street, Or egon, IL 61061 - or with the esta te legal representative, or both. Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative within 10 days after i t has been filed.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OG LE, ILLINOIS
In the Matter of the Estate of MARY JE AN RUCKER, Deceased No. 2024-PR-35 CLAIM NOTICE
Notice is given of the death of MARY JEAN RUCKER of Polo, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on June 14, 2024 to KEVIN HACHMEISTER, as Independent Executor whose attorneys are WILLIAMS McCARTHY LLP, 120 W. State St., P.O. Box 219, Rockford, IL 61105.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE - OREGON , ILLINOIS LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC
The estate will be administered without cour t supervision, unless under Section 28-4 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested pers on terminate s independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Clerk.
22 FC 55 NOTICE OF SALE
KEVIN HACHMEISTER Independent Executor
June 28, July 5, 12, 2024
Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street # 300, Oregon, IL 61061 or with the representative, or both, on or before December 23, 2024, or within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act, whichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney wi thin 10 days after i t has been filed.
RICHARD T. EVANS Independent Administrator
June 21, 28, July 5, 2024
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of For eclosure entered in the above entitled cause the Sheriff of Ogle County will on Fri day, August 9, 2024, at the hour of 10:00 a.m in the Sheriff's office, 202 S 1st Street, Oregon, IL 61061, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I .N. 24-25-329-020.
The estate will be administered without cour t supervision, unless under Section 28-4 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested pers on terminate s independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Clerk.
Pla intiff, vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LE GATEES OF REX CORSON, DECE ASED; DARREN CORSON; DAVID CORSON; DARIK CORSON; ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; AMIR MOHABBAT, SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR THE ESTATE OF REX CORSON, DECEASED; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS
Commonly known as 357 PHYLLIS AVE, ROCHELLE, IL 61068. The improvement on the prope rty consists of a single family residence If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The prope rty will NOT be open for inspection For informati on call Mr Chad Lewis at Pla intiff's Attorney, Roberts on, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partne rs, PLLC, 13010 Morris Road, Alpharetta, Georgia 30004. (708) 668-4410 ext. 52109. 22-032762 SHERIFF XOME I3247202
July 5, 12, 19, 2024
Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street # 300, Oregon, IL 61061 or with the representative, or both, on or before December 23, 2024, or within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act, whichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requiILLINOIS
Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, # 300, Oregon, IL 61061 or with the representative, or both, on or before December 30, 2024, or within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act, whichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and
Pla intiff, vs.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
Within 42 days after the effective date of the original order of admission you may file a petition with the court to require proof of the Will by testimony of the witnesses to the Will in open Court, or other evidence, as provided in Section 6-21 of the Probate Act 1975 (755 ILCS 5/6-21).
E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions To efile, you must first create an account wi th an e- filing service provider Visit https://efi le.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www.illinois courts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp.asp, or talk wi th your local circuit clerk's office. You also have the right under Section 8-1 of the Probate Act 1975 (755 ILCS 5/8-1) to contest the validity of the Will by filing a petition with the court wi thin 6 months after the admission of the Will to probate
As sumed Name Publication Notice Public Notice is hereby given that on June 17, 2024, 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:
815 Moonshine & 815 Wi ne loca ted at 8956 N Mulford Rd Rockford, IL 61109
Dated June 17, 2024. Laura J. Cook Laura J. Cook Ogle County Clerk
Defendants,
Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, # 300, Oregon, IL 61061 or with the representative, or both, on or before December 30, 2024, or within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if mail ing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act, whichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney wi thin 10 days after i t has been filed.
KEVIN HACHMEISTER Independent Executor
June 28, July 5, 12, 2024
COUNTY OF OG LE, ILLINOIS In the Matter of MARY JE AN RUCKER, Deceased No. 2024-PR-35 NOTICE TO HEIRS Notice is given to WILLIAM E NICODEMUS and TIMOTHY R. NICODEMUS who are an heir in the above proceeding to proba te a will and whose name or address i s not stated in the petition to admit the wi ll to probate, that an Order was entered by the court on June 14, 2024, admitting the will to probate
Attorney Adam M. Fleming Williams McCarthy Attorneys for Independent Executor
June 28, July 5, 12, 2024
PUBLIC NOTICE
June 28, July 5, 12, 2024
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE - OREGON , ILLINOIS LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC
UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LE GATEES OF REX CORSON, DECE ASED; DARREN CORSON; DAVID CORSON; DARIK CORSON; ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; AMIR MOHABBAT, SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR THE ESTATE OF REX CORSON, DECEASED; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS
22 FC 55 NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of For eclosure entered in the above entitled cause the Sheriff of Ogle County will on Fri day, August 9, 2024, at the hour of 10:00 a.m in the Sheriff's office, 202 S 1st Street, Oregon, IL 61061, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: LOT NINE (9) IN BLOCK ONE (1) IN EARL CLEVELAND SUBDIVISION NO. 3 IN THE CITY OF ROC HELLE, OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS; BEING A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTE R (1/4) OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER (1/4) OF SECTION 25 AND PART OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER (1/4) OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER (1/4) OF SECTION 25 IN TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 1 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN BOOK H OF PLATS ON PAGE 80A IN THE RECORDER'S OFFICE OF OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS; SITUATE D IN THE TOWNSHIP OF FLAGG, THE C OUNTY OF OGLE AND STATE OF ILLINOIS P.I .N. 24-25-329-020.
Within 42 days after the effective date of the original order of admission you may file a petition with the court to require proof of the Will by testimony of the witnesses to the Will in open Court, or other evidence, as provided in Section 6-21 of the Probate Act 1975 (755 ILCS 5/6-21).
E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions To efile, you must first create an account wi th an e- filing service provider Visit https://efi le.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www.illinois courts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp.asp, or talk wi th your local circuit clerk's office.
You also have the right under Section 8-1 of the Probate Act 1975 (755 ILCS 5/8-1) to contest the validity of the Will by filing a petition with the court wi thin 6 months after the admission of the Will to probate
Commonly known as 357 PHYLLIS AVE, ROCHELLE, IL 61068.
The improvement on the prope rty consists of a single family residence If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act.
Notice is hereby given by the Forrestville Valley School District #221, in the Counties of Ogle and Stephenson, State of Illinois, that the tentative budget for the 2024 - 2025 school year will be on file and conveniently available for public inspection by contacting the Forrestville Valley District Office at (815) 938-2036 from 8:00 a.m3:00 p.m each weekday the office is open from July 3, 2024 until September 25, 2024. Notice is further hereby given that a public hearing on said budget wi ll be held at 6:30p.m on September 25, 2024 at Forreston Junior/Senior High School
Attorney Adam M. Fleming Williams McCarthy Attorneys for Independent Executor
Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The prope rty will NOT be open for inspection
June 28, July 5, 12, 2024
For informati on call Mr Chad Lewis at Pla intiff's Attorney, Roberts on, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partne rs, PLLC, 13010 Morris Road, Alpharetta, Georgia 30004. (708) 668-4410 ext. 52109. 22-032762 SHERIFF XOME
I3247202
E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions To efile, you must first create an account wi th an e- filing service provider Visit https://efi le.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www.illinois courts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp.asp, or talk wi th your local circuit clerk's office. You also have the right under Section
July 5, 12, 19, 2024
July 5, 2024
Don't need it? Sel l it!
Ogle County Classified 833-584-NEWS
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
OG LE COUNT Y, ILLINOIS
U.S BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR MORGAN STANLEY RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2020-RPL1, Plaintiff, vs.
UNKNOWN H EIRS AND LEGATEES OF HELEN B. SCHELL; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF CHARLES O. SCHELL; JACKIE R HOLLANDSWORTH AS SUPERVISED ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF CHARLES O. SCHELL; JACKIE HOLLANDSWORTH AKA JACQUELINE HOLLANDSWORTH AKA JACKIE R. HOLLANDSWORTH; DEBBIE SCOLES AKA DEBORAH SCOLES; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF MICHAEL SCHELL; ASHLEY M. SCHELL; MARY DWYER; CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A.; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendant(s)
CASE NO. 2024FC23
Property Addre ss: 1162 S. Bradle y Lane Oregon, IL 61061 NOTICE FOR PUBLI CATION
The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice i s hereby given you, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF CH ARLES O. SCHELL; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF HELEN B SCHELL; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF MICHAEL SCHELL; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS ; ASHLEY SCHELL; , defenda nts in the above entitled cause, that suit has been commenced against you and other defendan ts in the Circuit Court for the Judicial Circuit by said plaintiff praying for the foreclosure of a certain mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to wit:
LOTS 8 AND 9 IN HELLE SECOND SUBDIVISION, BEING A PART OF THE NORTH E AST FRACTIONAL 1/4 OF SECTION 10, IN TOWNSHIP 23 NORTH, RANGE 10 EAST OF THE 4TH P.M., IN OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED AS DOCUMENT #343437 IN BOOK H OF PLATS PAGE 85 IN THE RECORDER'S OFFICE OF SAID COUNTY. P. I.N.: 16-10-227-002
Said prope rty is commonly known as 1162 S. Bradley Lane, Oregon, IL 61061 and which said mortgage(s) was/were made and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds as Document Numbe r 0513442, and for other relief; that Summons was duly issued out of the above Court against you as provided by law and that said suit is now pending.
NOW THEREFORE, unless you, the said above named defenda nts, file your answer to the complaint in the said suit or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Court at Ogle County on or before JULY 29, 2024, a default may be taken against you at any time after that date and a Judgment ente red in accordance with the prayer of s aid complaint E-filing is now manda tory for document s in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit http://efile.illinoiscourts.gov/service- providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit www.illinoiscourts.gov/FAQ /gethelp.asp
This c ommunication is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obt ained will be used for that purpose.
Diaz Anselmo & Associates, LLC
Attorneys for Plaintiff 1771 West Diehl Road, Suite 120 Naperville, IL 60563
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE, STATE OF ILLINOIS
PENNYMAC LOAN SERVICES, LLC,
Pla intiff(s), vs. STEVEN BLOMBERG, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Defendant(s) Case No. 24 FC 9 NOTICE OF SHE RIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment heretofore entered by the said Court in the above entitled cause, the She riff of Ogle County, Illinois, will on August 9, 2024, at the hour of 10:00 AM, at the OG LE PUBLIC SAFETY COMPLEX, 202 S 1ST STREET, OREGON, IL 61061, sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, all and singular, the following desc ribed premises and real estate in the said Judgment mentioned, situate d in the County of Ogle, State of Illinois, or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment, to wit: LOT SEVEN (7) AND THE NORTHERLY 5 FEET OF LOT EIGHT (8) IN BLOCK TWO (2) AS DESI GNATED UPON THE PLAT OF BLOCK 2 AND BLOCK 3 OF JOHN W. TILTON'S 10TH ADDITION TO THE CITY OF ROCHELLE, BEING A SUBD IVISION OF PART OF LOT 8, AND ALL OF LOT 9 OF STOCKING'S SIXTH ADDITION AND PART OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER (1/4) OF SECTION 23, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 1 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINC IPAL MERIDIAN, THE PLAT OF WHICH SUBDIVISION IS RECORDED IN BOOK "H" OF PLATS ON PAGE 61 IN THE RECORDER'S OFFICE OF OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS; SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF OGLE AND STATE OF ILLINOIS
Common Address: 913 N. 15TH ST., ROCHELLE, IL 61068
P.I .N. 24-23-276-007
Contact the Law Office of IRA T. NEVEL, LLC, 175 North Franklin, Suite 201, Chicago, Illinois 60606, (312) 357-1125, for further infor mation
The terms of the sale are: Ten percent (10% ) due by cash or certified funds at the time of the sale and balance is due within 24 hours of the sale The subject property is subject to real estate taxes, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "as is" condition. The sale is further subject to confir mation by the Court.
The prop erty is improved by a Single Family Residence, together with all buildings and impr ovements thereon, and the tenements, hereditaments and appurtenants thereunto belonging and will not be available for inspection prior to sale.
If this prope rty is a condomi nium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, othe r than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fee s required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4) . If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
LAW OFFICES OF IRA T. NEVEL, LLC
Attorney for Plaintiff Ira T. Nevel - ARDC #6185808
Timothy R. Yueill - ARDC #6192172
Greg Elsnic - ARDC #6242847
Aaron N evel - ARDC #6322724
Andrew Chu - ARDC #6285924
175 North Frankli n St. Suite 201 Chicago, Illinois 60606 (312) 357-1125
Pleadings@nevellaw.com SL # 24-00123
8190-944051
July 5, 12, 19, 2024 944051
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