Polo_Tri-County_Press-06-06-2025 by Shaw Media

POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS

Photo provided by Tony Hardin

POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS

Polo Lions Club awards scholarships

POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS

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The TRI-COUNTY PRESS (USPS No. 638-530) is published weekly by B.F. Shaw Printing Co., Shaw Media. Periodical postage paid at Polo, Illinois. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Shaw Media, P.O. Box 498, Sterling, IL 61081 All rights reserved. Copyright 2025

The Polo Lions Club presented nine Polo High School students with $500 scholarships on May 14 during the school’s awards night. Receiving scholarships were Logan Nelson, Kameron Grobe, Kale Grobe, Dawson Foster, Jeffrey Donaldson, Natalya Witkowski, Alayna Young, Mazy Queckboerner and Katelyn Rockwood. Pictured from left are Witkowski, Young, Queckboerner and Rockwood. “Congratulations to all of the Class of 2025 and good luck with your future plans,” Lion Jeff Short said.

Polo Lions Club makes donations

Lion Josh Gorzny presents a donation to a Polo youth baseball representative. On May 7, Polo Lions members Jeff Short and Gorzny made donations to the Polo Senior Center ($500); Polo Food Pantry ($2,000), Village of Progress ($200) and Polo Youth Baseball ($350). “Thank you to the community for helping the Lions Club through all the Lions fundraisers so we can continue projects throughout the community and make these donations,” Short said.

Photo provided by Jeff Short

Lion Jeff Short (right) presents a $200 donation to Brion Brooks of the Village of Progress.

Photos provided by Jeff Short

Lion Jeff Short presents a donation to the Polo Senior Center.

Lion Jeff Short presents a donation to the Polo Food Pantry.

Infinity Event on June 14 to honor the lives of Maggie and Amos

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

CHANA – The Maggie & Amos Foundation invites the community to its annual Infinity Event on Saturday, June 14, at the Rochelle Wildlife Conservation Club in Chana.

The event is held in memory of Maggie Rosko and her son Amos and brings people together to enjoy outdoor fun while supporting local education efforts.

“Attending is a simple way to show support for teachers, students and the power of community. Whether you’re there to run, bid, play or just relax and listen to music, your presence helps carry on Maggie and Amos’s legacy in a way that makes a real difference,” said Lynn Kalnins, one of the event’s organizers.

Planned activities are:

815 Twin City Baggers competitive and recreational cornhole bags tournament: Enter a competitive or casual division of the bags tournament for cash prizes. The event starts at 11 a.m. and is open to players of all levels.

Live music: Catch live performances from The Killer B’s from noon to 3 p.m.,

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Jamboree concert series kicks off Friday, June 13

MT. MORRIS – The Mt. Morris Jamboree opens its 13th season Friday, June 13, with a free concert by Rick Lindy and the Wild Ones presenting their Roy Orbison tribute.

“The show starts at 7 p.m. Rick and his band thrilled audiences here last year with their powerful performance of high-energy rock ’n’ roll from the ’50s and ’60s and this year they’ll open our season with a tribute to the iconic legend Roy Orbison,” said Larry Ubben, Jamboree organizer. “You’ll hear all of Roy’s hits presented with passionate authenticity by this exciting band.”

Concessions for the evening will be provided by the Evangelical Free Church of Mt. Morris, which will serve pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw, chips, water and baked goods.

Hector’s will serve tacos, burritos, nachos, drinks and more starting at 6 p.m.

The Mt. Morris Senior and Community Center’s “Popcorn Girls” Emmie and Lily likely will have fresh popcorn.

InfinityRun.

All Ages Treasure Orb Scavenger Hunt: Free and fun-for-all-ages scavenger hunt around the entire property of The Rochelle Conservation Club with cash prizes and more! Starts at 1 p.m.

Kids’ activities: A free area for children will include bounce houses, yard games, crafts, the Kid’s Hill Climb at 3 p.m. and a bubble fest with Bubble Master Jason Kollum from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Silent auction: Browse and bid on donated items. Proceeds go toward educational grants and scholarships.

a special education teacher, and her young son, Amos, 3, who died Oct. 19, 2016, in Byron.

Duane C. Meyer, Maggie’s ex-husband and Amos’ father, has been charged with four counts of first-degree murder, two counts of aggravated arson and one count of concealment of a homicidal death. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His case is pending in Ogle County court.

followed by an evening combined performance from Burn n’ Bush and The Vodka Boys from 7 to 10 p.m.

“Running Wild” trail run: Take part in the “Running Wild” 5K(ish) trail run or a 1-mile paved walk starting at 4 p.m. The trail offers a mix of terrain. The walk is stroller-friendly. Register at runsignup.com/Race/IL/Chana/

Food and drinks: Grilled treats will be available throughout the day with beverages of choice provided by mobile bar The Gypsy Filly (cash preferred). The Rochelle Wildlife Conservation Club will host its monthly Saturday Night Steak Fry starting at 6 p.m. Reservations can be made by calling 815-622-8940 with choices of meal including steak, pork chop and hot dog (each meal includes all sides).

Shirts: Event shirts will be available through Kathy Blume of GameDay Designs. Call her to place an order at 815-509-8426.

The Maggie & Amos Foundation was created in memory of Maggie Rosko, 31,

Maggie and Amos were deeply connected to their community and school and the foundation continues their legacy by funding education-based projects and scholarships.

“Its goal is to give back to classrooms and students in meaningful, practical ways to support teachers, encourage learning and help young people succeed,” Kalnins said.

To date, more than $55,000 has been awarded to educators and students in the area.

“Everyone is encouraged to come out, take part in the activities and support a cause that helps our schools and area students,” Kalnins said.

For more details and updates, visit the event page at facebook.com/ maggieandamos.

Ewe and Me Acres will host a farmers market with fresh produce, baked goods, crafts and more from 4 to 8 p.m. every Friday on the Campus.

The Encore Art Gallery and the historical museum will be open on the Campus during concerts.

“Please bring a blanket or chair or enjoy the new benches and join the fun on our beautiful, historic campus in the center of Mt. Morris, two blocks south of Route 64 on Wesley Avenue, and enjoy the free rock ’n’ roll concert,” Ubben said.

Pulled pork meal to be offered at Jamboree concert June 13

MT. MORRIS – Pulled pork, hosted by the Evangelical Free Church of Mt. Morris, will be featured at concessions for the summer’s first Mt. Morris Jamboree on Friday, June 13.

The menu includes pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw and chips, along with home-baked goods and bottled water. Serving is from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. or while

supplies last.

Donations will be accepted with 100% of the funds received going to the Mt. Morris Let Freedom Ring fireworks.

The weekly Friday night concerts are held during the summer from 7 to 9 p.m. at the band shell in downtown Mt. Morris.

A Roy Orbison tribute by Rick Lindy will kick off the season June 13.

The Evangelical Free Church of Mt. Morris has been part of the Mt. Morris community for more than 65 years. Worship services are held every Sunday at 10 a.m., preceded by Sunday School for all ages at 8:30 a.m. Kingdom Kids is held during the worship service for youngsters ages 4 to 9 and a staffed nursery is available for children younger than 4. The church is located at 102 S. Seminary Ave. For more information, call the church office at 815-734-4942.

Oregon church to hold benefit sale June 13-14

OREGON – The Oregon Church of God will

hold a Benefit Sale from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, June 13, and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 14, in the church’s garage and picnic shelter at 860 W. Oregon Trail Road.

The sale will be based on donations that will be used for mission work and Church of God Family Camp.

The Church of God works with Lord’s Harvest International to support more than 450 congregations in Africa. In addition to worshipping together, congregations in Malawi, Kenya, Uganda and Mozambique care for orphans and provide food and shelter as needed for their members. Anyone unable to attend the Benefit Sale but wanting to help is encouraged to pray for health and safety, wisdom for church leaders and the orphans in the churches in Africa.

Drop off donations from 9 a.m. to noon Wednesday, June 11, and Thursday, June 12, at 860 W. Oregon Trail Road in Oregon. For more information, call Connie Stauffer at 815-732-2447.

– Shaw Local News Network

Shaw Local News Network file photo

Maggie (Rosko) Meyer holds Amos after one of the races she competed in. The Infinity Run is held as a fundraiser for the Maggie & Amos Foundation in their memory.

Big boxes spark interest, activity at the museum

On Saturday, the Polo Historical Society museum was quite lively as usual. Kevin had opened it up by hanging out the flag and I arrived by 10 a.m. We were to have several guests from out of town and Kevin was ready for them. They had been emailing Linda, so we knew what they were interested in if research was involved.

Mary from Rockford had arrived when I got there. She was planning on doing some research and those files were ready for her, so we did not have to look for things. She was looking for the Pyfer family, along with several others, so we had the big scrapbooks Ernie Pyfer had put together years ago on the table. They are very large.

Margaret Pyfer, Ernie’s wife, was coming from Freeport to meet Mary and she was bringing two big boxes of books that had belonged to Ernie. She

POLO HISTORY

Betty Obendorf

arrived about the time Linda did and with the help of Kevin, all was carried in.

We get very excited when a big box arrives to see what is in it in the way of the history of Polo and beyond. The box hardly hit the floor when I pulled out some Polo postcards and a Civil War book. Kevin spied an early history book and we knew right away that there were things that we would add to our museum. Also I saw some things that would go to Mt. Morris. We try to get things to other towns when they come to our museum.

Julie Bowers arrived loaded down with bricks from the Congress School

that she had saved. We will take some of those with printing on them to the brick program this week.

We talked about how her dad Jerry Smith had put up the ceiling tiles when we put the museum together many years ago. I can still see him as he put up the first tile in the corner and it had to be just right so they all would fit together.

Julie stayed and worked with Linda on the location of her house in Polo. David Poole arrived to talk about the program on brick making. David is helping with the program. It takes all of us to give a program. Ted arrived and we gave him something to do in our program.

At some point, Julie took some of the people next door to see the law office since some had never been in it. I stayed put since I had been in the law office when it had been purchased and Paul Graehling had put it

together. Mr. Typer had been a lawyer there and Lois Typer ended up owning the building.

Later, Kevin, Mary and Ted were trying to figure out where the Herman Giles farm had been and it ended up with Ted taking the women out to see the exact spot before Mary went back to Rockford.

By the time Ted left with the women on the tour of the area, I was tired and headed for home.

It had been a busy day at the museum. We never know who will suddenly pop in and need help. But several members of the Polo Historical Society usually are there on Saturdays to give a hand.

If the flag is out, Kevin is there, so stop by.

• Betty Obendorf is a retired teacher and volunteer for the Polo Historical Society.

A tale of two Oregon mayors and their connection with the railroad

James V. Gale, Oregon’s first mayor, and Jim Barnes, our mayor serving two terms from 1979 to 1983, both had a major influence on our railroad.

Gale moved to Oregon in 1850 and was elected mayor after Oregon was incorporated in 1870.

Gale was a director of the proposed railroad through Oregon. His brother John was very much opposed to the railroad passing through his farm between Oregon and Mt. Morris.

Mayor Gale wrote: “This is a great day for Oregon. The railroad finished about 4 o’clock p.m. in the presence of a large number of our citizens, ladies and gentlemen of Oregon and vicinity. I was requested to drive the last spike for the railroad to Oregon, which I did in the presence of the citizens, great rejoicing among the people. A short

Otto Dick OGLE COUNTY HISTORY

speech was given and everyone was pleased and enjoyed it much.

“After the meeting, an oyster supper was served, a bonfire and bells rang a merry peal. After the ceremonies were over, the train left for Aurora. I was among the first passengers from Oregon. This was the first trip over the Chicago and Iowa Railroad.”

Mayor Barnes is responsible for saving the Oregon Depot. If not for his effort and determination to save the Depot, this valuable piece of Oregon history would not exist.

The following people and organiza-

tions helped Barnes save the Depot and obtain the title to this property: Dave Smith (city attorney), Ogle County Historical Society, Oregon Public Library, Myron Olson (Illinois state representative), Harlan Rigney (Illinois state senator), Oregon Chamber of Commerce, Harriet Lowden Madlener, Illinois Commerce Commission and Warren Miller.

This was a long process of seven years to obtain the Depot. At the same time, negotiations were ongoing to vacate the railroad spur that ran past the piano factory.

I now understand that without Barnes the Depot site would be an empty lot with little historic value.

Thanks for the many hours that the Depot Gang spent saving the Depot. I want to thank the many people who have spent their time and money working on historic projects in Oregon.

They enjoy working to save our history. Thank you all, and especially our two James – Mayors Gale and Barnes.

• Otto Dick is a retired teacher and has researched Ogle County history for several years.

Kable Band concerts to begin June 11 in Mt. Morris

MT. MORRIS – The 129th season of the Kable Band concerts will begin at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 11, at the Warren Reckmeyer Band Shell on the Mt. Morris Campus.

Concerts are under the direction of Oregon High School band director and music educator Andy Eckardt.

“Enjoy music for all ages. Soloists and special numbers are featured,” said Sylvia

Saunders, a longtime band member. “Come early. Ice cream socials start at 7 p.m. Don’t miss this special Mt. Morris Kable Band tradition. It’s time to ‘Say it with Music.’ ”

The free concerts will continue each

Wednesday evening through July 30 at the Reckmeyer Band Shell in downtown Mt. Morris.

Bench seating is provided or attendees can bring their own lawn chairs. – Shaw Local News Network

James Gale Jim Barnes

Lowell Park Road to close between Edgewood, Penn Corner

Intersection improvements to take several months

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

A portion of a popular two-lane road between Lee and Ogle counties will be closed for several months for a $1 million improvement project.

Lowell Park Road between Edgewood and Penn Corner roads is expected to close this week, Ogle County Highway Engineer Jeremy Ciesiel said.

“It is anticipated that the closure will remain in place until mid-October,” Ciesiel said. “A marked detour will be posted directing traffic around the closure.”

Work will include replacing a reinforced concrete box culvert in addition to widening the intersection with Penn Corner Road and the installation of a storm sewer.

“The road will be lowered, a retaining wall will be built and roughly one-quarter mile of pavement will be

reconstructed,” Ciesiel said.

Ciesiel said the highway department examined the condition of all the culverts along Lowell Park Road in 2021 between the Lee County line, north to Pines Road.

“The purpose of the review was to ascertain which structures needed to be replaced or extended ahead of the road being resurfaced,” Ciesiel said.

“As a result of this investigation, it was determined that issues at 14 crossroad structures needed to be addressed. Of these, 13 were smaller, shallow structures that were easily accessible. However, the 14th structure was a larger, deeper box culvert just south of Penn Corner Road.

“It was decided to perform the culvert work at the 13 accessible locations and gap the pavement resurfacing project near Penn Corner Road.”

The project to improve the 13 culverts took place in 2022 and the road resurfacing was done in 2023, Ciesiel said. During the resurfacing project, the quarter-mile near Penn Corner Road was omitted.

“During the analysis of the larger

structure, it was determined that replacement was the only option,” Ciesiel said. “The new structure will be longer than the existing structure in order to allow for safer, more manageable slopes adjacent to the road. This will also allow for the removal of the existing guardrail system. Given the size and depth of the culvert, it is necessary to close Lowell Park Road. Since the road will be closed, it was decided to address deficiencies at the intersection of Lowell Park Road and Penn Corner Road during the closure.”

That phase of the project will include lowering Lowell Park Road to give motorists more view of oncoming traffic as they pull onto Lowell Park Road from Penn Corner Road.

“In order to improve sight distance at the intersection, the hill south of the intersection will be lowered up to 5 feet,” Ciesiel said. “Due to the presence of a cemetery along the west side of the road, a retaining wall will need to be built so as to not disturb the plots during this lowering. The intersection will be enlarged slightly to assist in turning movements and new storm

sewer will be placed to better convey water runoff.”

Ogle County Board member Lyle Hopkins of Polo said reducing the level of the road by the intersection should make it safer for motorists entering Lowell Park Road from Penn Corner Road.

“They will take that hill down and that should make it safer,” said Hopkins, who is a member of the county board’s Road and Bridge Committee and lives on Penn Corner Road.

“Finally, the quarter-mile of roadway that was gapped during the 2023 resurfacing project will be paved and will include a new paved shoulder,” Ciesiel said.

The project went out for bid in April with Martin & Company Excavating of Oregon submitting the lowest bid at $1,329,992.

The Ogle County Board approved that bid at its May 20 meeting. Hopkins said $600,000 will come from the county’s Motor Fuel tax fund, $300,000 from the Federal Aid Matching fund and $430,000 from the County Aid to Bridge fund.

You’re Invited

Join Rock River Center in Our Celebration!!

Saturday, June 21, 2025

12:00pm - 2:00pm RIBBON CUTTING followed by OPEN HOUSE

Rock River Center 810 S. 10th Street, Oregon

5:00 pm DOORS OPEN for Guests attending the evening performance

5:30 - 7:00 pm SHOWTIME

Our evening performance will be The Four C Notes.

This is a ticketed event and details are as follows:

• Tickets may be purchased at Rock River Center

• Cost: $60.00 per person

• Limited seating available.

• Heavy appetizers will be served.

• Meet and greet with staff

• Historical photos

• Light refreshments

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

Established in 1975, Rock River Center, is celebrating 50 years of service to Ogle County Seniors, Caregivers, the disadvantaged, and the greater community in 2025. Our Open House will be free and open to the public. Our evening celebration will be a ticketed event with heavy appetizers, entertainment by The Four C Notes and more!

Around the Farm Art Exhibit opens June 6 at Coliseum Museum

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

OREGON – The Around the Farm Art Exhibit featuring 34 artists from across the northern Illinois area opens Friday, June 6, at the Coliseum Museum, 124 N. Fourth St. in Oregon.

The exhibit features 68 individual art pieces that highlight the importance of agriculture in northern Illinois.

The art pieces will be on display through July 12.

“The exhibit offers work in acrylic, mixed media, pastel, photography, oil and watercolor,” said Michael Glenn, executive director of the Coliseum Museum of Art, Antiques & Americana.

Artists who have submitted their work include Jean Apgar, Cindy Bear, Phyllis Bergagna, David Bingaman, Larry Bond, Jill Browne, Beverly Ashley Broyles, Tina Cannova, Craig Carpenter, Janet Cederlund, Bob Cholke, Dick Cholke, Janice Conkrite, Jane Erlandson, Kate May Fitch, Margi Forss, Laurie Friemuth, Jeanne Garrett, Roger Goodspeed, Steve Hart, Mary Howe, Bob Kapheim, Linnea Koch, Robert Krajecki, Bob Logsdon, Maggie Magnuson, Joy Meyer, Jean Pechtel, Joe Popp, Tamara Shriver, Donna Smith, Steve Toole, Lucinda Winterfield and

Julie Young.

The exhibit will be judged by Nancie King Mertz of Rockford with awards presented at a reception from 6 to 8 p.m. June 13 that will feature music by Cheryl & the Down Home Boys.

Mertz has spent her lifetime painting in oil and pastel. She was awarded the Master Circle by the International Association of Pastel Societies, Eminent Pastelist in 2018 and is a Master Signature member of Pastel Society of America, Degas Pastel Society and Chicago Pastel Painters. Mertz has been a member of The Palette & Chisel of Fine Arts since 1988 and Plein air Painters since 2003. She was a three-year instructor of art at Eastern Illinois University, where she received

her master’s in painting two years after completing her Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting at the University of Illinois. The Coliseum Museum’s mission is to present art, antiques, Americana and history through permanent and rotating exhibits, workshops, music, theater and more. For more information, visit cmaaa.org.

“Morning Chores” is an acrylic on canvas by Kate May Fitch of Belvidere.

“Finished for Today” is a photograph by Steve Toole of Ashton.

“Harvest #4” is an oil painting by Tina Cannova of Freeport.

Photos provided by Michael Glenn of CMAAA

“In the Driver’s Seat” is a pastel painting by Jean Pechtel of Elgin.

Dixon man accused of attempted murder still wants trial moved

By PAYTON FELIX pfelix@shawmedia.com

OREGON – A private attorney representing a rural Dixon man charged with the attempted murder of three police officers said he will be pursuing a motion made by a former Ogle County public defender to hold the trial outside the county.

Jonathon Gounaris, 33, 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 – all of which stem from a June 12, 2024, standoff with police in the rural Dixon subdivision of Lost Lake. Gounaris has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is being held in the Winnebago County Jail in Rockford.

Gounaris originally was represented by former Assistant Public Defender William Gibbs, who left the office in August 2024. The case was taken over by Assistant Public Defender Michael O’Brien, who left the office in mid-April. Gounaris now is represented by attorney William Wolf of Wolf Criminal Law, based in Chicago.

Gounaris appeared before Ogle County Judge John “Ben” Roe on May 30 along with Wolf and attorney Jack DeBacker of Wolf Criminal Law.

Wolf told Roe that he plans to pursue O’Brien’s March 6 motion to appoint an expert but needs to amend it and expand on it.

The motion filed by O’Brien asks Roe to “appoint an expert and/or reimburse defense costs to assist in presenting a change-of-venue request,” according to the motion.

A change-of-venue motion typically asks the judge to move the trial to a different location. Those motions usually cite reasons that the filing party believes would prevent a fair trial in the county in which the case was filed. Pretrial publicity often is listed as a reason for a change-of-venue motion.

In O’Brien’s motion, he argued that the court should allow and pay for a company to “explore the likelihood

that this case should be tried” in a different county because there exists “prejudice against” Gounaris and he cannot receive a fair trial in Ogle County.

Wolf also asked for additional time to review the large amount of discovery. There was no objection from the state.

Assistant State’s Attorney Heather Kruse asked for Gounaris’ continued detention and Wolf had no objection.

Gounaris has been denied pretrial release as far back as his initial detention hearing June 20, 2024. O’Brien made extensive arguments supporting Gounaris’ release at a hearing March 17, when he called the June standoff a “paradox of the welfare check.”

The state disagrees and has continued to argue for detention since the initial June 20 hearing. Kruse said March 17 that police had found Gounaris to be wearing ballistic body armor while armed with two handguns, pepper spray and a knife.

On May 30, Roe again ruled to keep Gounaris detained.

Gounaris is charged with shooting 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 Lost Lake. 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.

Gounaris’ next hearing is set for 2:30 p.m. July 17.

Alex T. Paschal

Jonathan Gounaris (left) speaks with defense attorney William Wolf on May 30 in Ogle County court.

Forreston-Polo’s 4x100 relay team of Mercer Mumford, Brody Schwartz, Jonathan Milnes and Noah Dewey finished sixth in 43.38 seconds at the Class 1A state track and field finals May 31 at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston.

Photos provided by Tony Hardin

Forreston-Polo’s 4x400 relay team of Brody Schwartz, Hayden Vinnedge, Eli Ferris and Noah Dewey finished eighth in a time of 3:27.85 at the Class 1A state track and field finals May 31 at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston.

Forreston-Polo, Oregon bring home state medals

Morrison sprints its way to state championship

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

and BOB NARANG

Shaw Local News Network correspondent

CHARLESTON – Oregon and Forreston-Polo brought back medals from the Class 1A boys state track and field finals May 31 at Eastern Illinois University’s O’Brien Field.

And they witnessed a nearby team, Morrison, sprint its way to a state title.

On an excellent day for track – a light wind combined with sunny and hot temperatures – the white and red Morrison state qualifiers captivated the large crowd in attendance.

Class 1A team champion Morrison set a meet record in the 4x200 relay with a time of 1:26.92.

Forreston-Polo’s 4x200 relay team of Eli Ferris, Brody Schwartz, Jonathan Milnes and Noah Dewey finished fifth in 1:30.17. First-place Morrison was followed by Tuscola (1:28.4), Aledo-Mercer County (1:29.32) and Maroa-Forsyth (1:29.79).

Forreston-Polo’s 4x100 relay team of Mercer Mumford, Schwartz, Milnes and Dewey finished sixth in 43.38. Morrison won the event in 42.16 seconds, followed by Colfax-Ridgeview (42.76), Aledo-Mercer County (42.77), Arcola (42.96) and Lena-Winslow (43.38). Forreston-Polo set a PR in Thursday’s preliminary round with a time of 43.11.

Forreston-Polo’s 4x400 relay team of Schwartz, Hayden Vinnedge, Ferris and Dewey had another PR when it finished eighth in 3:27.85. Auburn won the event in 3:22.05. Rockford Christian finished seventh in 3:27.20.

“I am really proud of this group of guys,” Forreston-Polo coach Tony Hardin said. “As a whole, we are a young team, and they gained a lot of experience and confidence going against the top talent in the state. We came down to state in nine events and went to the finals in five of those events.

“Our All-State sprint relays in the 4x100, 4x200 and 4x400 were all made up of three sophomores and one senior. That one senior, Noah Dewey, has been a huge part of our recent success as he has now ended his career with eight All-State performances, including one 4x100 state

championship. He is going to be tough to replace, but I believe he helped guide our youth to show them what it takes.”

Oregon’s Daniel Gonzalez took fourth in the 800 with a personal best 1:57.14. Delavan’s Corie Green won the race in 1:55.46, followed by Rockford Christian’s Evan White (1:56.47) and Dwight’s Joe Faris (1:56.60).

“The race didn’t go as what I expected,” Gonzalez said. “I expected to get out fast and lead or just stick behind the guy in first, but I got boxed in immediately and didn’t go as fast as I wanted the first lap. It was very weird. I had no space around me, which made it hard to get out of the pack.

“Eventually on the last 300 meters, a gap started to open up and I took advantage of it and started to take off straight to the finish. Overall, if I could run that race again, I would have approached it differently and not get stuck, but in the end I was pretty happy with the results and so close to Oregon’s school record

by Ian Hussung.”

Gonzalez also had set a personal best in the 800 prelims with a time of 1:57.57.

Forreston-Polo’s Ferris advanced to the finals of the high jump, finishing 15th after clearing 6 feet. Shelbyville’s Will Nohren won the event with a jump of 6-63/4.

Ferris ran a personal best in the 100 hurdles (15.67) but failed to advance to the finals.

Forreston-Polo’s Hunter DeWall finished 11th in the discus with a toss of 44.55 meters (146 feet, 2 inches). Bureau Valley’s Landon Hulsing won the event with a throw of 57.19 meters (187-7).

Other Forreston-Polo athletes competing in the prelims but not advancing to the finals were Vinnedge in the 400 (52.38), Jakob Kobler in the shot put (43-4 1/2), Milnes in the high jump (5-10) and Billy Lowery in triple jump (foul).

Oregon’s Nick Burke failed to advance to the finals in pole vault with a mark of 10 feet.

Morrison, with an enrollment of just less than 300 students, blazed the blue track all day long.

In the second-to-last event, Morrison’s junior duo of Levi Milder and Brady Anderson capped a historic day for the program by dominating the Class 1A 200-meter dash.

Milder hit the finish line in a personal record time of 21.44 seconds, nudging out a fast-charging Anderson, who finished second with a PR of 21.67. With the 18 points scored by Milder and Anderson, Morrison added another sterling accomplishment to the best day in program history.

Morrison tallied 60 points to win the 1A state title. Several Mustangs said last season’s fourth-place state showing motivated the entire program. The Mustangs won two relays May 31, Anderson placed first in the 100-meter dash and Milder claimed the 200 title.

Photo provided by Oregon High School

Oregon’s Daniel Gonzalez (second from left) finished fourth in the 800 meters at the Class 1A state track and field finals May 31 in Charleston. Gonzalez set a personal best in the prelims with a time of 1:57.57 and improved on that mark in the finals with a 1:57.14.

Forreston coach to pursue new career direction

One of the pleasures of covering high school sports is meeting so many wonderful people, be it players, coaches, parents, administrators, referees and fans.

One such person is Forreston coach and teacher Jake Groom.

I was surprised to learn earlier this year that he is leaving the place where he grew up and later returned after college to work. Not only that, but there is a lot of young talent coming back on the basketball team, of which he was the head coach.

So why would a 31-year-old take such a detour in life?

“If I didn’t feel a calling, I wouldn’t be doing it,” Groom said. “I still love what I am doing at Forreston. It will be a huge adjustment leaving. I’m fighting a lot of emotions right now. Former students have stopped in to see me.”

His plan is to join the U.S. Army, specifically the Ranger Regiment, with hopes of becoming a chaplain’s assistant.

“At my age, the Ranger Regiment is no joke,” Groom said. “If I don’t make it, God’s got me in a different spot to help people.”

Now it’s making sense to me. Being a humble servant to those around us is a surefire way to spiritual enlightenment. Certainly, here is no more noble gesture than service to humanity.

However, committing four years of one’s life to the armed services is a bit different at age 31 than 18.

“It seems like everything that has

Forreston head coach Jake Groom (left), assistant coach Robert DeVries and the Cardinals’ bench react to a call during the regional championship game against Annawan on Feb. 28 at Amboy High School. Groom announced his decision to leave teaching earlier this year and pursue a career with the U.S. Army. DeVries has been named Forreston’s head basketball coach.

happened along the way this year has verified I made the right decision,” Groom said. “And at worst, it’s only four years away. If it doesn’t work out, I can come back. I will see where the good Lord takes me.”

One thing Groom feels comfortable with is leaving the basketball program in good shape. The 2012 Forreston grad joined a long list of homegrown individuals who returned to coach at their alma mater.

Likewise with Robert DeVries taking over as head basketball coach and Brandon Fyock and Jonathan Schneiderman assisting.

“The right people are taking it over,” said Groom, who even sold his house to DeVries and missed the last day of the boys state track and field meet to attend his wedding.

That’s a good segue to the final IHSA event of the Ogle County sports calendar that the area had competitors in –the boys track and field state meet in Charleston.

In Class 1A, Forreston-Polo (and I

emphasize both schools as the program only is referenced downstate as the Forreston Cardinals) made its presence felt.

Yes, Forreston is the host school of the co-op, but let’s not forget Polo plays a big part, too, such as senior anchor Noah Dewey finishing his career with eight state medals in the relays.

It was another banner year for Forreston-Polo with state places in the 400, 800 and 1,600 relays.

The Northwest Upstate Illini Conference dominated the sprints with Class 1A team champion Morrison setting a meet record in the 800 relay (1:26.87) and Lena-Winslow also near the top.

How fast was Morrison? Its time of 1:26.87 would have placed second in the entire state regardless of classification.

Occasionally there may be a Class 1A athlete such as Jordan Thomas of Oregon a number of years ago who can hold their own with the best of the state. But to find four kids in a small school is extremely rare. Morrison’s two fastest runners, juniors Brady Anderson and Levi Milder, won the 100 and 200-

meter dashes.

Rochelle almost had its first state champion since 1965 but pole vaulter Andrew Nuyen settled for second at 15 feet, a couple of feet below his personal best. The Hubs also had a seventh-place showing in the high jump from Jack Tilton.

With Daniel Gonzales taking fourth in the 800 meters in 1:57, Oregon had its best individual finish since 2019 when Jake Mennen was pole vault runner-up.

Among the smallest schools in Class 2A, Byron was shut out downstate in its medal quest. For 2A schools such as Byron, Stillman Valley, Pecatonica, Durand, etc., the 1A track enrollment classification needs to go up to include them.

Had that been the case, Byron would have sent five more events downstate instead of only two.

Hats off to the Byron girls soccer team for winning the regional over Stillman Valley.

The big shocker at Byron this spring was the baseball team losing 9-2 in the sectional to Johnsburg. The Tigers came into the game with a 28-game win streak.

High school postseason baseball is like that. One bad inning can spell the end of a season and that is what happened to Byron.

Then you have a school such as Dixon, which was on an 11-game losing streak going into the postseason. Dixon won a regional title.

That’s a wrap for the 2024-25 high school sports year in Ogle County and beyond. Hopefully, I will be back in the fall to continue where we left off. Have a good summer everyone.

• Andy Colbert, an avid runner, is a sports writer for Shaw Local covering high school sports in Ogle County.

Andy Colbert GUEST VIEW

Earleen Hinton file photo

Public-private debate dominated high school sports year

By ANDY COLBERT

Shaw Local News Network correspondent

In reviewing IHSA sports over the school year, without a doubt the biggest issue was the public-private debate.

The occasionally flickering flame that has existed for decades got scorching hot over football championship weekend with an almost complete domination by the private schools.

That disparity in competitive balance even made its way into national news feeds.

It started with a very good LenaWinslow team getting blown out by Belleville Althoff in Class 1A and continued in the next seven title games.

It was an ugly debacle and put the IHSA in the unenviable position of attempting to balance the playing field without splitting public schools and private schools apart. To that end, the IHSA has tightened up its success factor and 1.65 multiplier for the private schools.

Its crown jewel, the state basketball tournament, the original “March Madness,” also was tarnished by a competi-

tive imbalance. Empty seats abounded at the state finals with so many private schools and Chicago public open enrollment schools, which bring small crowds.

Off the court, the IHSA is wrestling with a Right to Play House Bill, which would allow athletes to compete on both their high school and club team in the same season. Sounds like a conflict of interests to me. And don’t forget the effort to remove Native American mascot names.

On the area scene, Byron’s football team gave Lombard Montini all it could handle in a 21-20 loss, falling just inches shy of the goal line on a 2-point attempt after a well-executed two-minute drill. Although it wasn’t part of the Thanksgiving weekend debacle, it helped set the public-private outrage in motion, as did Rochelle’s loss to Nazareth Academy.

My favorite high school football game was Byron traveling to Dixon and winning on a 2-point conversion. It was a lively atmosphere at A.C. Bowers Field. Dixon was the only team other than Lombard to test Byron.

I purposely referred to it as the high school fave because being on hand in South Bend for the Northern Illinois vs. Notre Dame game far surpassed anything else I witnessed this past school year. Being an NIU grad with press pass in hand allowed me to realize a dream of both seeing and covering my Huskies pull off the college upset of the year.

In basketball, it was hard to beat the intense rivalry games between the Byron and Stillman Valley girls. The only thing that came close was covering the boys sectional final between Eastland and Pecatonica.

The slowdown tactics employed by Eastland created a theater of dramatics at a jam-packed Pec gym. The entire 32 minutes kept all of us on the edge of our seats until Eastland sealed the unexpected win over the No. 1-ranked team in 1A.

A sport that gets little publicity –bowling – saw Oregon make it all the way to the state finals in a one-class system. That’s a huge accomplishment.

Individually, how about the job done by Lucas Nelson of Forreston in wres-

tling? With only one arm, Nelson almost qualified for state in 2A.

On a personal note, I was excited to learn he is going to college for the same program I was in, nutrition and food science.

In spring sports, the last hurrah for Dale Hartman was of note. The Byron baseball coach had a long run of success and the Tigers baseball team had a regular season to remember.

The top county performer in the spring was Rochelle pole vaulter Andrew Nuyen, whose 17-foot, 1-inch clearance was ranked No. 9 in the nation. With one year left, 18 feet is in his sights.

It was a season to remember for Oregon’s girls track and field team with a first-ever sectional title and several state medals. Forreston’s Bree Schneiderman also tore up the track and has two more years to ply her trade.

After a 33-year career at Oregon as teacher, coach and athletic director, Mike Lawton is retiring. Hosting more events than any school its size in the state, Lawton and assistant Tracy Harvey (also retiring) did it in style.

• STATE TRACK AND FIELD

Continued from page 9

“It’s awesome to win the team title and go one and two with my teammate to end it,” Anderson said. “That was one of the few times we’ve raced against each other. We’ve all been working so hard for this. Last year left a chip for the team. We wanted to win state.”

Milder, running the 200 in lane six, said it was special to win the final individual event to further cement Morrison’s place as the top 1A program in the state this season.

“It’s nice to win the 200,” Milder said. “It was nice having the competition against my own teammate. I love the feeling of winning this. The relays were something we’re so lucky to have. I’m happy this year went as planned. I knew I was ahead around the first 100 and knew if I just kept going, it was my race. It ended up in my favor.

“It feels so good to win the team [title]. Last year we thought we had a chance, but we didn’t come close. This year we knew the whole season we had a good chance. We’ve been working on all our events and had a plan laid out and it worked out because we got the state championship. That 200 just put some sprinkles on the ice cream.”

Morrison opened the state finals by loading up on points in the relays, defending its 4x100 and 4x200 titles. The 4x100 relay team of Rylan Alvarado, Levi Milder, Zach Milder and Anderson clocked a PR time of 42.16.

OGLE COUNTY PROPERTY TRANSFERS

May 25-31

Warranty deeds

Hoogland 2006 Family Real Estate Limited Partnership to Hoogland Keith Limited Partnership, 497 W. IL Rt 38, Rochelle, $1,140,544.

William Robert Messer to James Waugh, 207 E. Center St., Mt. Morris, $137,000.

Matthew Shore and Marjorie Shore to Mark Dempsey and Megan Dempsey, one parcel in Grand Detour Township: 21-08-302-006, $10,000.

Benjamin A Johnson to Zachary A Childers and Amanda L Childers, 532 Heritage Drive, Stillman Valley, $400,000.

Byron Union Rental LLC to State Of Il Dept Transportation, 112 S. Union St., Byron, and 113 S. Union St., Byron, $617.

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp to Christopher Grimm, 508 W. Fulton, Polo, $119,900.

Mortgage Research Center LLC and Veterans United Home Loans to Veterans Affairs Sec Of, 153 N. Perene Ave., Byron, $0. Osf Healthcare System to State Of Il Dept Transportation, 109 N. Franklin St., Byron, $300.

Eric Droege to Terry L Carpenter, 309 N. 12th St., Rochelle, $155,000.

Karly Weaver, Karly Clenney and Edward J Clenney and Timothy W Lampson, 1038 N. 8th St., Rochelle, $185,000.

“I was injured last year, so it was good to be back and felt good running with these guys and I just tried to do my job,” Alvarado said.

Levi Milder said he was motivated to win the relay for the second straight year.

“This year I felt so much more confident about it and we’ve been improving the whole year and everything went as planned,” Levi Milder said. “Compared to last year, we were more ready for it and we knew we could win it.”

Zach Milder, a senior, also ran the third leg last year

Timothy J Patterson and Megan M Patterson to Lance Headon and Cassandra Headon, two parcels in White Rock Township: 18-13-100-005 and 18-13-100-006, $267,000.

Tracy Export Inc to Collin Curry and Rachel Curry, one parcel in Pine Creek Township: 15-36-400-006, $340,000.

Kelly D Wilson and Sharalyn K Wilson to Brock D Wilson, 1303 Glacier Drive, Byron, $300,000.

Hre Builders LLC to Francisco J Diaz Tierrafria and Celina V Vargas Franco, 635 S. Regulators, Rochelle, $328,000.

Contry Homes Group LLC to Marion A Miller and Charlotte R Miller, 934 White Birch Lane, Davis Junction, $315,540.

Doris J Heim, Deceased By Heirs, to Steven Gnoffo, 7157 N. German Church Road, Byron, $275,000.

Zeke T Horn to Jordan Michael Howard, 2391 E. Montague Road, Byron, $190,500.

Christopher J Sanford to Timothy L Rienstra, 6365 S. Freeport Road, Polo, $40,000.

Michael S Dearborn to Barbara Ann Forney, 306 N. Green Ave., Polo, $55,450.

John Mark Russell to Ted Gesin and Gesin Rentals, 4045 W. IL Rte 64, Mt. Morris, $145,000.

John Mark Russell to Ted Gesin and Gesin Rentals, 4047 W. IL Rte 64, Mt. Morris,

at the state finals for Morrison.

“I was a lot more confident because we won last year and knew we had to just come out here and execute,” Zach Milder said. “I ran how I wanted to run.”

Anderson said the entire relay team did its job to gain 10 early points.

“I was really confident and looking at the time and tried to get a state record but just fell short,” Anderson said. “Last year we didn’t know what we could do, but this year we knew and it was 100% confidence. It feels awesome to start the day this way.”

With the same group, the Mustangs added the 4x200 relay title in a time of 1:26.92.

Zach Milder helped the relay with a sizzling leg, setting up Anderson to rely on his strong kick to close out the race.

“I just had a lot of motivation after hearing the announcer saying we were defending our title and that really pushed me,” Zach Milder said. “Seeing Brady and my brother get top three in the 100 gave me a lot of motivation.”

Anderson won the 100 in a time of 10.74 seconds and was emotional after winning the first state individual title in his career. He clapped his hands together several times after seeing his time. Levi Milder placed third in 10.92.

“I was injured and no one thought I could do it,” Anderson said. “It’s been a rough season, but I had some people who pushed me and I kept believing in myself. I came in here as a bad seed, but I knew I was better than that.”

$150,000.

Harvest Glenn LLC to Contry Homes Group LLC, 212 Autumnwood Lane, Davis Junction, $0.

Harvest Glenn LLC to Contry Homes Group LLC, 1111 Frosty Morning Drive, Davis Junction, $0.

Haywell Llc Residential Rentals to Marisol Martinez Esparza, 1321 W. 8th Ave., Rochelle, $124,000.

Joanne E Janssen to Paul Harrison, Rr 4 Skare Road, Dixon, and 5820 S. Skare Road, Rochelle, $225,000.

Quit claim deeds

Woods Equipment Company to Dale L Beesing and Diane L Beesing, No parcel information, $0.

Jennifer Diehl to Christopher Diehl, 16844 W. Goose Hollow, Polo, $0.

Patricia Borell to Joseph Borell, no parcel information available: 17-36-400-005, $0.

William E Frederick to William E Frederick, trustee, and Frederick Revocable Lv Tr, 302 Platte Drive, Dixon, $0.

Executor’s deed

Victoria Marshall, deceased by executor, and Estate of Victoria Marshall to Charles W Sauer and Linda W Sauer, 111 W. 1st St., Mt. Morris, $211,000.

William E Hammond, deceased, by

executor, and Estate of William E Hammond to William Gersch, 202 W. 4th St., Leaf River, $50,000.

Trustees deeds

Susan Thompson, trustee, Virgilia De La Torre Perez Land Tr1 and Virgilia De La Torre Perez Land Tr to Ramos Properties LLC, 305 Southview Drive, Rochelle, $110,000.

Curtis R Freeberg, trustee, Curtis R Freeberg Tr and Norma L Freeberg Tr to Scott Hilliard, two parcels in Marion Township: 10-03-126-001 and 10-03-200-008, $92,522.

Kreg Gruben, trustee, Norman Gruben Rev Tr, and Doris Gruben Rev Tr to Zeke Horn, 1884 S. White Rock Road, Rochelle, $400,000.

William E Frederick, trustee, and Frederick Revocable Lv Tr to James Linsey and Monica Linsey, 302 Platte Drive, Dixon, $315,000.

Deeds in trust

Randell C Calvert to Randell C Calvert, trustee, and Randell C Calvert Rev Tr1, 330 1st Light Drive, Stillman Valley, $0.

Jude L Yount and Annette L Yount to Jude L Yount, trustee, and Jude L Yount Lv Tr, 402 W. 1st St., Mt. Morris, $0.

Jude L Yount and Annette L Yount to Annette L Yount, trustee, and Annette L Yount Lv Tr, 402 W. 1st St., $0.

Source:OgleCountyRecorder’sOffice

Scott Anderson

Members of the Morrison boys track and field team hoist the Class 1A state championship trophy May 31 at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston.

CLASSIFIED

LANAR K GARAGE SALES

ESTATE S AL E

26451 Teleg raph Road, Lanark, IL

Friday , June 6 10 AM - 5 PM Saturday , June 7 10 AM - 5 PM Sund ay , June 8 10 AM - 5 PM

Furniture, lift chairs, chair lift, lamps, piano, tools and power tools, household items, glassware and dishes, beauty shop equipment, exercise bench, clothing, seasonal decor, wall decor, small trailers and much more

GENERA L LABORER

Shank's Veterinary Equipment, Inc. Milledgeville

Unskilled laborer to perform a variety of manual labor duties necessary as required in a manufacturing production facility.

Skills Req uired and/or Duties: Attend work on the schedule established by the employer without excessive absenteeism; Follow all safe work practices; Be proficient at reading tape measur e; Clean production area; Sweep and remove debris; Clean up galvanized parts using hand held die grinder s and other hand tools; Grind or clean welded joint; Manually tap drilled holes or re-tap holes of galvanized weldments; Manually assist in cutting and grinding of foam covered padded boards; Manually move and carry raw materials thr oughout facility; Assist in crating and /or packaging of finished goods in preparation for shipment using packing materials and/or power hand tools; Wash equipment and/or vehicles; Proficient at following directions and instr uction; Assist in minor assembly of finished parts; Good communication skills; Clean up work area daily; Ability to lift 60 lbs; Proficient in time management; Ability to multi task; Ability to work well under pressure; Ability to wor k independently; Willingness to learn new skills.

Hours: Full Time; minimum pay rate $17-$19/hr based on exper ience. Shifts: Monday thru Friday 7am-5pm, Saturday 7am-12noon Overtime hours may be mandatory

Benefits: Paid holidays; Paid vacation; Paid sick/per so nal time; Health insurance benefits; Dental/Visio n benefits; AFLAC offered; Simple IRA 3% match Opportunities for advancement include Production Welder and Painter

Email cover letter & resume to: todd@shanksvet.com

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT F OR THE 15TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT OGLE COUNTY - ORE GON , ILLINOIS U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.-

ZACHARY RYAN RICHARDS, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Defendant 2024 FC 41 NOTICE OF SAL E PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 23, 2024, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 1:00 PM on June 26, 2025, at the Ogle County Courthouse, 106 5th Street, front door entrance, OREGON, IL, 61061, sell at public in-person sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 909 N. 9TH STREET, ROCHELLE, IL 61068

Property Index No. 24-24-153-004

The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $131,456.66.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty -four (24) hours The subject property is subject to general 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 confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certi ficate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale

The proper ty will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclos ure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees 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).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

You will need a photo identi fication issued by a government agency (driver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, contact RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES Plaintiff's Attorneys, 120 N. LASALLE STREET, SUITE 1140, Chicago, IL, 60602 (312) 239-3432. Please refer to file number 24IL00371-1.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE

You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

RANDALL S MILLER & ASS OCIATES 120 N. LASALLE STREET, SUITE 1140 Chicago IL, 60602 312-239-3432 E-Mail: ilpleadings@rsmalaw.com

Attorney File No. 24IL00371-1 Case Number: 2024 FC 41 TJSC#: 45-1204 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff's attorney is deemed to be a

collector attempting to collect a

and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL

CIRCUIT OGL E COUNTY, IL LINOIS

In the Matter of the Estate of GLEN L. ORR, Deceased

NO. 2025-PR-33

CL AIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of GLEN L. ORR of Mt Morris, IL. Letters of Office as Independent Administrator were issued on May 29, 20251 to KATHLEEN

CL AIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of GLEN L. ORR of Mt Morris, IL. Letters of Office as Independent Administrator were issued on May 29, 20251 to KATHLEEN ORR, 417 S McKendrie Ave., Mr Morris, IL 61056, whose attorney is ROBERT E EDEN, 722 Santa Fe Drive, Freep ort, IL 61032.

June 6, 2025

ORR, 417 S McKendrie Ave., Mr Morris, IL 61056, whose attorney is ROBERT E EDEN, 722 Santa Fe Drive, Freep ort, IL 61032.

Claims against the Estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, Ogle County Courthouse, Oregon, IL, or with the executor, or both on or before December 4, 2025, or within 3 months from date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/18-3), as amended, whichever date is later

filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, Ogle County Courthouse, Oregon, IL, or with the executor, or both on or before December 4, 2025, or within 3 months from date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/18-3), as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred.

date is barred.

E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exceptions. To e-file, create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need further help or have trouble e-filing, visit http:// www.illinoiscourts. gov/FAQ/gethelp. asp or talk with your local circuit clerk's office.

asp or talk with your local circuit clerk's office.

Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the executor and to the attorney within 10 days after being filed.

ROBERT E. EDEN

Attorney for Estat e

June 6, 13, 20, 2025

MONTHLY

ME ETING DATES

ORE GON FIRE PROTE CTION

PROTE CTION

DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES

MAY 1, 2025 THRU APRIL 30, 2026

Wednesday May 14, 2025

Wednesday June 11, 2025

Wednesday July 9, 2025

Wednesday August 13, 2025

Wednesday September 10, 2025

Wednesday October 8, 2025

Wednesday November 12, 2025

Wednesday December 10, 2025

Wednesday Janu ary 14, 2026

Wednesday February 11, 2026

Wednesday March 11, 2026

Wednesday April 8, 2026

Wednesday May 13, 2026

Meetings called to order at 10:00 A.M.

submit bills by 12:00 Noon on the Thursday prior to trustee meeting to receive payment on the above dates.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, IN MEETING ASSEMBLED DATED May 15, 2025

Steve Carr

President

June 11, 2025

Wednesday September 10, 2025

Wednesday December 10, 2025

Wednesday March 11, 2026

June 6, 2025

Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the executor and to the attorney within 10 days after being filed.

ROBERT E. EDEN

Attorney for Estat e

DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES

MAY 1, 2025 THRU APRIL 30, 2026

Wednesday May 14, 2025

Wednesday June 11, 2025

Wednesday November 12, 2025

Wednesday

December 10, 2025

Wednesday Janu ary 14, 2026

Wednesday

February 11, 2026

Special or adjourned meet ings may be called from time to time

ALL Meetings to be held in the office of the Trustee s, Oregon Fire Protection Administration Building, 106 Sout h First Street, Oregon, Illinois.

QUARTERLY ME ETING

DATES ORE GON FIRE PROTE CTION DISTRICT FIRE FIGHTER PENSION FUND MAY 1, 2025 THRU APRIL 30, 2026

Meetings called to order at 9:45 A.M Special or adjourned meet ings may be called from time to time ALL Meetings to be held in the office of the Trustees, Oregon Fire Protection Administration Building, 106 Sout h First Street, Oregon, Illinois.

NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONME NT & NOTICE OF INTENT TO RE QUES T A RELE ASE OF FUNDS

June 6, 13, 20, 2025

Ms. Kristin Faust, Executive Director, Illinois Housing Development Authority 111 E. Wacker Dr., Suite 1000, Chicago, Illinois 60601 (312) 836-5398

Wednesday July 9, 2025

Wednesday August 13, 2025

Wednesday September 10, 2025

Wednesday March 11, 2026

Wednesday April 8, 2026

Wednesday May 13, 2026

Meetings called to order at 10:00 A.M.

These notices shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the Illinois Housing Development Authority TO ALL INTERESTED AGENCIES, GROUPS AND PERSONS: REQUES T FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS

Wednesday June 11, 2025

Wednesday

September 10, 2025

Wednesday

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT FIREFIGHTER PENSION FUND, IN MEETING ASSEMBLED

DATED March 18, 2025. Steve Carr

President

Wednesday October 8, 2025

Wednesday November 12, 2025

VENDORS shall submit bills by 12:00 Noon on the Thursday prior to trustee meeting to receive payment on the above dates.

Special or adjourned meet ings may be called from time to time

On or about June 24, 2025, the above-named Illinois Housing Development Authority (the Authority) will submit a equest to the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the release of Federal funds under Title II (HOME Investment Partnerships Act) of the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990 and will authorize the Ogle County Housing Authority to submit a request to the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Public Housing, for the release of Federal funds under the Project Based Voucher (PBV) Program under CFR 983.58 for the following project:

Project Name/I.D. Hill Street Neighborhood PID 12452

December 10, 2025

Wednesday March 11, 2026

Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the executor and to the attorney within 10 days after being filed.

Wednesday

December 10, 2025

Project Location: North side of Hill St. and west of the west end of Cranbrook Lane, PIN 08-26-176-002

Wednesday Janu ary 14, 2026

Wednesday February 11, 2026

ALL Meetings to be held in the office of the Trustee s, Oregon Fire Protection Administration Building, 106 Sout h First Street, Oregon, Illinois.

Propose: The proposed project involves the acquisition and new construction of a 24-unit development located in Mt. Morris, IL. The development will consist of 12 one-story duplexes and a community building The unit mix will consist of 18 one-bedroom and 6 two-bedroom units. Project amenities will include in-unit washer and dryers, Energy Star appliances, and a common room All 24 units will be covered by PBVs from Ogle County Housing Authority. The initial AHAP will and subsequen tly the HAP will have a term of 15-years.

ROBERT E. EDEN Attorney for Estat e

June 6, 13, 20, 2025

Wednesday March 11, 2026

Wednesday April 8, 2026

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, IN MEETING ASSEMBLED DATED May 15, 2025

June 6, 2025

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT F OR THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OG LE COUNTY - OREGO N, ILL INOIS

Steve Carr President

June 6, 2025

Wednesday May 13, 2026

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs, an officer of the United States PLAI NTIFF Vs.

The proposed project includes the new construction of twelve duplexes for 24 units of housing. The new construction also includes a community building with common spaces, storage, and offices. Site work includes building new roads, bringing utilities to the site, site detention, new sidewalks, and site lighting. New construction will twelve wood-framed slab-on-grade buildings with driveways and garages

Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exceptions. To e-file, create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need further help or have trouble e-filing, visit http:// www.illinoiscourts. gov/FAQ/gethelp. asp or talk with your local circuit clerk's office.

VENDORS shall submit bills by 12:00 Noon on the Thursday prior to trustee meeting to receive payment on the above dates.

Total Estimate d Cost: The estimate d total project cost is $9,452,497. In addition to the $328,600 in PBV rental subsidy and $5,017,018 in IHDA HOME, the proposed project will be funded with an IHDA Trust Fund Loan, and a Sauk Valley Bank Construction Loan

Jason M. Hicks; Laura A Hicks; Tabor Law Offices, P.C.; Survey-Tech, a Division of C.E.S., Inc.; John Deere Financial, F.S.B.; Unknown Owners and Nonrecord Claimants DEFENDANTS No. 2025FC17 NOTICE B Y PUBLICATION

Meetings called to order at 9:45 A.M. Special or adjourned meet ings may be called from time to time ALL Meetings to be held in the office of the Trustees, Oregon Fire Protection Administration Building, 106 Sout h First Street, Oregon, Illinois.

Meetings called to order at 10:00 A.M. Special or adjourned meet ings may be called from time to time

Mitigation Measures and Conditions: Per the IEMA Public Radon Dashboard the average radon level for the zip code is 7.8 pCi/L. The action level is 4.0 pCi/L. A passive radon system will need to be installed The system must be tested prior to occupancy. If the results come back in at or above 4.0 pCi/L an active system will need to be installed. A copy of the Radon Survey Report a nd Radon O&M Plan will need to be sent to IHDA FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT

Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the executor and to the attorney within 10 days after being filed.

ROBERT E. EDEN Attorney for Estat e

PUBLI C COMMENTS

ALL Meetings to be held in the office of the Trustee s, Oregon Fire Protection Administration Building, 106 Sout h First Street, Oregon, Illinois.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, IN MEETING ASSEMBLED DATED May 15, 2025

Steve Carr President

The Authority has determined that the above project will have no significant impact on the human environment . Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmenta l Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at IHDA Multifamily Financing Department, 111 E. Wacker Dr., Suite 1000, Chicago, IL 60601. The ERR will be made available to the public for review either electronically or by U.S Mail. Please submit your request by U.S Mail to Amy Coyne IHDA, Multifamily Financing Department, 111 E Wacker Dr., Suite 1000, Chicago, IL 60601 or by email to acoyne@ihda.org

June 6, 2025

NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU: Survey-Tech , a Division of C.E.S., Inc. Unknown Owners and Nonrecord Claima nts That this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendants, praying for the foreclosure of a certain Mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, towit: COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 6538 E Hales Corner Rd Stillman Valley, IL 61084 and which said Mortgage was made by: Jason M Hicks Laura A. Hicks the Mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registrat ion Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Leaderone Financial Corporation, as Mortgagee, and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Ogle County, Illinois, as Document No. 201505766; and for other relief; that summons was duly issued out of said Court against you as provided by law and that the said suit is now pending.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT FIREFIGHTER PENSION FUND, IN MEETING ASSEMBLED DATED March 18, 2025.

Steve Carr President

June 6, 2025

June 6, 13, 20, 2025

ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION

VENDORS shall submit bills by 12:00 Noon on the Thursday prior to trustee meeting to receive payment on the above dates.

Any individual, group, or agency may submit wr itten comments on the ERR to the Authority's Multifamily Financing Department, 111 E. Wacker Dr., Suite 1000, Chicago, IL 60601. Comments may also be sent via email to acoyne@ihda.org All comments received by June 23, 2025 will be considered by the Authority prior to authorizing submission of a re quest for releas e of funds.

The Authority certifies to HUD that the Authority and Ms. Kristin Faust, in her official capacity as Certifying Officer consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal courts if action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmenta l review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD?s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under the NEPA [National Environmental Policy Act of 1969] and related laws and authorities and allows the Illinois Housing Development Authority to use Program funds.

Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the executor and to the attorney within 10 days after being filed.

ROBERT E. EDEN

Attorney for Estat e June 6, 13, 20, 2025

OBJECTION TO RE LEASE OF FUNDS

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, OREGON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, IN MEETING ASSEMBLED DATED May 15, 2025

Steve Carr

President

June 6, 2025

HUD will accept objec tions to its release of fund and the Authority?s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the Authority; or (b) the Authority has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding requ ired by HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58; (c) the grant recipien t or other participants in the development proc ess have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections to Project Based Vouchers (PBV) must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required proced ures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to William O Dawson III, Director, Illinois State Office of Public Housing, Region V, 77 West Jackson Boulevard, Suite 2414, Chicago, Illinois 60604 at William.O.DawsonIII@hud.gov Objections to HOME must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the requir ed proce dures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec 58.76) and shall be addressed to Mr. Donald Kathan, Director of Community Planning and Development, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 77 West Jackson Bo ulevard, Chicago, Illinois 60604 at CPDRROFCHI@hud.gov. Obje ctions to the release of funds on bases other than those stated above will not be considered by HUD. No objection received after July 9, 2025 will be considered by HUD Potential objectors should contact HUD via email to verify the actual last day of the objection period. Ms. Kristin Faust, Executive Director June 6, 2025

NOW, THEREFORE, UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the Office of the Clerk of this Court, Kimberly A. Stahl Clerk of the Circuit Court 106 S. 5th Street, #300 Oregon, IL 61061-1634 on or before June 23, 2025, A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRAYER OF SAID COMPLAINT.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES , P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100 Burr Ridge, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 DuPage # 15170 Winnebago # 531 Our File No. 14-25-02243

NOTE: This law firm is a debt collector I3266258 May 23, 30, Jun. 6, 2025

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT F OR THE 15TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT OGLE COUNTY - ORE GON , ILLINOIS U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.-

ZACHARY RYAN RICHARDS, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Defendant

2024 FC 41 NOTICE OF SAL E

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 23, 2024, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 1:00 PM on June 26, 2025, at the Ogle County Courthouse, 106 5th Street, front door entrance, OREGON, IL, 61061, sell at public in-person sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Lot Seven (7) in Block Six (6) of Lane's Additi on to the Village of Lane, now with the City of Rochelle situated in the County of Ogle and State of Illinois.

Commonly known as 909 N 9TH STREET, ROC HELLE, IL 61068 Property Inde x No. 24-24-153-004

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $131,456.66.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certi ficate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

For information, contact RANDALL S. MILLER & ASSOCIATES Plaintiff's Attorneys, 120 N. LASALLE STREET, SUITE 1140, Chicago, IL, 60602 (312) 239-3432. Please refer to file number 24IL00371-1.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE

You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

RANDALL S MILLER & ASS OCIATES

120 N. LASALLE STREET, SUITE 1140 Chicago IL, 60602 312-239-3432 E-Mail: ilpleadings@rsmalaw.com

Attorney File No. 24IL00371-1 Case Number: 2024 FC 41 TJSC#: 45-1204 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Case # 2024 FC 41 8190-954069

(Ogle County Newspapers May 30, Jun. 6, 13, 2025) 954069