POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS
Soccer tourney brings 12 teams to Oregon, Stillman / 10
in Oregon sees mix of Trump supporters and critics / 6
Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
Polo’s Jordan Reed (14) runs for a gain against Bushnell-Prairie City on Friday, Aug, 29, in Polo.
POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS
POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS
TRI-COUNTY PRESS
oglecountynews.com ShawLocal.com
Included in every subscription
Activate your digital access today. Visit: ShawLocal.com/digital-activation Call: 866-979-1053
OFFICE
113-115 Peoria Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 815-732-6166, ext. 2592
SUBSCRIPTIONS
1 month – $5.42
13 weeks – $16.25
26 weeks – $32.50
52 weeks – $65
To subscribe, make a payment or discuss your delivery, call 815-732-6166, ext. 2518, from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday-Friday or send an email to customer-support@shawmedia.com. You also can subscribe online by going to oglecountynews.com and clicking on Subscribe.
CLASSIFIED SALES classified@shawlocal.com
HELP WANTED employment@shawlocal.com
LEGAL NOTICES sauklegals@shawlocal.com
OBITUARIES
saukobits@shawlocal.com
Deadline for obituaries is 2 p.m. Tuesday for Friday’s edition SEND NEWS news@oglecountynews.com
Publisher Jennifer Heintzelman 815-632-2502 jheintzelman@shawmedia.com
Editor Charlene Bielema 815-632-2518 cbielema@shawmedia.com
Advertising Sales
Jennifer Heintzelman 815-632-2502 jheintzelman@shawmedia.com
The Tri-County Press, Ogle County News and oglecountynews.com are a division of Shaw Media. Ogle County Newspapers also prints the Mt. Morris Times, Forreston Journal and Oregon Republican Reporter.
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
Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County to raffle off playhouse and shed
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County is excited to once again bring the opportunity for a local family to win a 6-by-10-foot hand-crafted playhouse thanks to Oregon High School’s FFA Ag Construction class.
And new this year is the addition of a second raffle of an 8-by-10-foot storage shed, thanks to Byron High School’s Construction Class. Both high school classes worked hard during the school year, building and learning the ins and outs of construction. The high schools have generously donated these items to help Habitat raise funds to buy building materials for future projects.
Raffle tickets are being sold at various locations as well as through the Habitat website at habitatoglecounty.org. Only 500 tickets will be sold for each raffle. Tickets cost $10 each, or three can be bought for $25. The winning ticket for the playhouse raffle will be drawn Sept. 19 at the Oregon High School homecoming game. The winning ticket for the shed raffle will be drawn Oct. 17, the evening of the Byron High School homecoming game.
For more details on the raffles, go to habitatoglecounty.org, follow Habitat of Ogle County’s Facebook page, or contact Sheri Anspaugh at sheri.anspaugh45@outlook.com.
Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County is excited to once again bring the opportunity for a local family to win a hand-crafted playhouse thanks to Oregon High School’s FFA Ag Construction class. And new this year is the addition of a second raffle of a storage shed thanks to Byron High School’s Construction Class.
The mission of Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County is to seek to put God’s love into action by bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope. Since
2002, Habitat has built 14 houses in Ogle County, along with countless critical home repairs and mobility projects. For more information, visit habitatoglecounty.org.
Oregon Area Chamber adds 2 new members
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Oregon Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the addition of two members to its growing network of local businesses and organizations: Rowland Auctions LLC and Special Olympics Illinois.
Rowland Auctions LLC is a locally operated auctioneering business, bringing professional auction services to the region. Many community members will recognize owner Austin Rowland from his work at
the Flamingo Palace in Oregon, where he has helped customers find the right antique or select a quality custom frame. Rowland Auctions aims to bring energy, expertise and integrity to every auction they host.
Special Olympics Illinois is a statewide organization dedicated to transforming lives through the power of sport. Providing year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, Special Olympics Illinois fosters inclusion, builds confidence, and strengthens communities. Their impact extends far beyond athletics, touching the
CORRECTIONS
Accuracy is important to the Polo Tri-County Press. Please call errors to our attention by email at news@oglecountynews.com.
lives of athletes, families, volunteers and supporters across the state.
“We are thrilled to welcome both Rowland Auctions LLC and Special Olympics Illinois to the Chamber,” said Chance D. Munroe, the Chamber’s executive director. “Our members are the heartbeat of our community, and these two additions bring unique value, talent, and heart to our network.”
For information about these new members or to learn about the Oregon Area Chamber of Commerce, visit www.oregonil.com or call 815-732-2100.
HOW ARE WE DOING?
We want to hear from you. Email us your thoughts at feedback@shawmedia.com.
UNLIMITED DIGITAL ACCESS
Photo provided by Habitat for Humanity of Ogle County
$4.1M Oregon fire station expansion project on schedule and on budget
Project will double the size of the current facility
By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Construction of a $4.1 million renovation and expansion of the 40-year-old Oregon fire station is proceeding on schedule and on budget.
Workers began setting the forms to pour concrete last week after fill was brought in to shore up the ground under the new addition that will double the size of the current facility.
“We anticipated that we would be putting fill in. We knew that area had been filled previously with old concrete, so we wanted to be sure we had a solid base to work with, so that was all in the original plan,” Oregon Fire Chief Michael Knoup said. “It is my understanding that it was a lumber yard at one time.
“We’re on track and on budget.”
The existing station, 100 Washington St., is on the west bank of the Rock River next to the Route 64 bridge on the north side of the state highway.
In January, the Oregon City Council voted unanimously to approve a zoning variance and special-use permit for the fire district to expand the station despite it being located in the city’s River Front Commercial District.
About 100 people squeezed into the council’s chambers or watched from the hallway as commissioners went against a Jan. 21 recommendation by the Oregon Planning Commission not to endorse the request, opting to approve the measure by a 4-0 vote, with one recusal.
The fire station was built in 1985 and grandfathered into the River Front Commercial District when that district was formed in 2016. The variance and special-use permit were needed because the fire district is planning “significant changes” to the station that would make it “nonconforming” to the River Front district.
The council’s decision followed a presentation by Knoup detailing the planned expansion and how it will be funded.
The expansion is needed to accom-
modate larger emergency vehicles, consolidate all fire apparatuses and equipment under one roof, and provide more living quarters for full-time firefighters and paramedics.
Knoup said the expansion project will take 14-16 months to complete and will be done in three phases.
“We are looking to have the steel supports put up this month. The build-
ing shell should be up by the end of October,” Knoup said.
Fire district trustees decided that moving the fire station to a new location and rebuilding from scratch would be too costly for taxpayers, estimating that cost at $8 million to $10 million.
The proposed expansion is being funded through existing capital funds combined with bonds and grants with-
out any increase in the district’s property tax levy, Knoup said.
Consolidating all vehicles and apparatuses in one location will increase efficiency and decrease response times, which can make a difference in saving lives and property, Knoup said, noting that in 2024, the fire department rescued 26 people from the river. He also said calls for service increased from 400 in 1985 to 1,200 last year, with 80% of those being ambulance calls.
“The citizens of Oregon and its tourists are our priority,” Knoup said during the January meeting.
In the years since the existing station was built, the district has transitioned from an all-volunteer force to a combination of paid full-time and volunteer staff, employing nine full-time members working in three shifts, with three members per shift, Knoup said.
“I want to thank the public for their continued support. We are right on target,” Knoup said.
Earleen Hinton
Construction workers were busy Aug. 27 at the Oregon Fire Station expansion site. The current fire station can be seen in the background.
Image provided by the Oregon Fire Protection District
This drawing shows the planned expansion of the Oregon Fire Station.
Remembering the early days of concrete work
OGLE COUNTY HISTORY
Otto Dick
The following information was written by Clyde Myers, who was the owner of Meyers Excavating, a fourth-generation business in Oregon that started in 1832.
Clyde wrote this story during the early years of my life. I was born in 1935 in Indiana and after we moved to Oregon, I graduated from Oregon High School in 1955.
I remember helping mix concrete in a half-bag mixer, and later, while working for Contractor Henry Mattison, we obtained ready-mixed concrete from Myers Ready-Mix.
When you drive by our home located at 3234 S. Daysville Road, the concrete for this home came from Myers ReadyMix.
Here’s what Clyde wrote:
“Back in 1936, I worked for the National Silica Company. There was no Ready-Mix at that time, so we used the half-bag mixer. Finally, I got a new bag mixer, and that was the biggest thing in the country.
The mixer was portable with a little motor on it, and you could wheel it around and take it to where you wanted, dump the concrete into wheelbarrows and take it to where you wanted to go. You’d haul gravel to the job and mix it there.
At the Warmolt’s job, we started pouring at five o’clock in the morning and got the walls done by two o’clock the next morning. It was a continuous pour. I think we poured eight yards of
concrete that day. Everybody was wheeling, Doc Warmolts, yep everybody was wheeling.
“I remember when I was street commissioner. We had some financial problems and I suggested putting in parking meters for extra money. Everybody that was in business wanted to park out front and with meters, you couldn’t. The Mayor raised hell about it, so I went over to his place. I said there are are seven cars parked out in front of the stores on Fourth Street.
That’s the reason we’re putting parking meters.
“I started out with nothing and you couldn’t borrow any money then. Nobody had any. I started in the time of the Depression. In my business, I shoveled by hand for many years. I couldn’t get enough money to buy a loader, but if you could do 15 to 20 yards a day, you could say you were doing big.
“When my first concrete ready-mix arrived, I mounted it on my international truck. I could haul 4 yards of ready-mix concrete and today we can move 8 yards per load.
“I’ve done a lot of things over the years in Oregon. I was a crane operator, a gas station owner and operator who had a fruit stand, too, across from Stenhouse. I trucked livestock to the Chicago Stock Yards at night and during the day, shoveled gravel.
“I got interested in city projects and ran for office because I think Oregon is a great town and everyone should help out. But the best part of these years has been working with my horses. Yes, that was the best.”
• Otto Dick is a retired teacher and has researched Ogle County history for several years.
Cleaning is the work of the day at Polo museum
The cleaning up of the office at the museum has begun. At least I think it has started since the Waterbury doll has headed for the doll hospital. A couple of years ago the doll traveled up from Florida and she was not in good shape since she had leakage of the sawdust.
The doll is quite old with a white leather body filled with sawdust, and everywhere she was placed, she left a trail of her insides. All my life, I have been a doll person and I have dealt with Annabelle’s dolls in the last few years. I always headed to Byron to Joan’s, and she patched up different dolls that are now in the museum.
But Joan has moved, and she is no longer in the business of repairing. So when the Waterbury doll arrived, I took the doll to a local antique show, hoping there might be a doll repair person at
the show. There was no such person. So my doll has been at the office at the museum waiting until I could find a place to have her fixed. Everywhere she is placed, there is a small pile of sawdust.
Two weeks ago, when Kevin and I decided that the office needed to be cleaned up, I knew the doll should go somewhere. I started my research and found out that Naperville has a doll hospital. This week, Steve and Cheri arrived to help me with some outdoor things. So Cheri and I went to the museum, packed up the doll, and the
doll has gone to Naperville to be repaired.
So I think this means that the office is now officially in clean-up mode. Extra boxes need to be put in recycling and the Harriet Fry picture goes back up to Aplington House. I have put the new notebook with information on Aplington House together, and that needs to be placed at Aplington House. Everyone needs to be aware of the timeline of redoing Aplington House and how it was rescued from being torn down.
In the museum, a table needs to be cleared off and removed to make way for a big copier. Kevin will help with some of this. He has been working at the home of Dr. Burns in the newspaper room. All old newspaper books are being restacked on metal shelving. Wood shelving eventually leeches some of the surface into the books and that is
why metal is better. Kevin has them all listed on the computer, so we know what we have.
The wooden bookcases can come down to the museum to hold newer books and recopied information. We need to think in terms of preserving. Kevin would like to see more flowers that were typical of the prairie around Aplington House. So I got out my book on prairie flowers and Black-eyed Susan flowers could be used. At my house, those flowers were taking over near my patio and Steve has moved some to other flower beds. Mine came from southern Illinois and my grandparents’ farm. Maybe some of them can go to Aplington House. We will see.
• Betty Obendorf is a retired teacher and volunteer for the Polo Historical Society.
Betty Obendorf
POLO HISTORY
Image provided by Otto Dick A business card for Myers Excavating.
CCR knocks Eagles out of Jamboree top spot
By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Move over, Eagles – CCR has the top spot now.
Fortunate Sons, a Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band, closed out the 2025 Jamboree Music Series in Mt. Morris in record-breaking style Friday, Aug.29.
“We have 2,500 tonight and that is a new all-time record,” said Larry Ubben, Jamboree organizer, grinning ear-toear as the band played its final set during the two-hour, free concert.
The four-member band had the large crowd rockin’ as they cranked out popular tunes accompanied by guitar solos and spot-on vocals at the Warren Reckmeyer Bandshell.
Chairs filled the lawn circling the bandshell, with some concert-goers securing their viewing spots hours before the music began at 7 p.m.
Heartache Tonight, an Eagles tribute band, held the attendance record for one week, bringing in 2,200 on Aug. 22.
A member of Fortunate Sons, a Creedence Clearwater tribute band, plays a guitar solo during the Jamboree Concert Series in Mt. Morris on Friday, Aug. 29.
Fortunate Sons topped that mark with chairs stretching across South Wesley Avenue, east of the bandshell, which is closed for traffic during the concerts.
The dance area directly in front of the bandshell was filled with concert-goers moving to the music as temperatures dipped in the mid-60s and the band cranked out fan favorites.
Other attendance totals for this year included 1,400 set by Rocks Off, a Rolling Stones tribute band; Brass from the Past, playing a selection of Motown, soul and rock tunes, 1,350; and the Chicago Tribute Anthology, a tribute band for the iconic band Chicago, 1,200.
The Mt. Morris Fire Protection District summed up the 2025 concert series with this post on social media: “Couldn’t have asked for a better night to close out the 2025 season of the Mt. Morris Jamboree. The Fortunate Sons brought in a record-smashing crowd of over 2,500 tonight. We are honored to serve our community and think events like this show what a hidden gem it is.
“Thank you to all who safely visited our community, and a special thank you to Larry Ubben for all his hard work to bring his dream of Mt. Morris as a musical destination to fruition.”
Earleen Hinton
Labor Day rally in Oregon fuels Trump debate
By EARLEEN HINTON
Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Critics and supporters of President Donald Trump met peacefully on the northeast corner of the Ogle County Courthouse Lawn for two hours on Labor Day to offer their opinions.
A “Workers Over Billionaires” rally organized nationwide to protest policies and executive orders by Trump and his administration drew an estimated 130 people critical of the president and about 10 supporting him.
Indivisible of Ogle County, the local chapter of the Indivisible Project network, a grassroots organization founded in 2016, also held rallies in April, May, June, July and August. Jan Buttron of Chana has been one of the organizers of the Oregon rallies.
The majority of participants on Monday again carried signs criticizing Trump’s policies and questioning recent executive orders they said threaten democracy.
A smaller group of Trump supporters also carried flags and signs supporting Trump. That effort was organized by
Gary Schrimpsher of rural Oregon.
On Monday, Schrimpsher carried a large American flag with Trump’s likeness.
Buttron carried a sign stating “Fight the Trump Takeover” with ‘Trump’ crossed out with a red X.
Buttron and Schrimpsher and supporters of each camp demonstrated their views peacefully during the twohour event, with a few animated discus-
sions observed during the start of the rally.
Monday’s rally fell short of the largest rally in Oregon that occurred on June 14, which drew about 500 people.
That rally was one of several thousand “No Kings” rallies held across the nation on the same day that Trump hosted a large military parade in Washington, D.C., in commemoration of the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and his
79th birthday.
Buttron and Trump critics have accused Trump of violating constitutional rights and endangering democracy by trying to “consolidate all the powers to himself.”
On Monday, homemade signs criticized Trump’s tariffs, immigration policies, executive orders, ICE raids, and failure to release the Epstein files.
Some of the signs read: “Defend Our Constitution,” “Trump Has Polluted the Swamp,” “Workers Over Billionaires,” “Union Strong,” “Fight For Those Without Your Privilege,” “Human Rights For All,” “Just Say No to Fascisim,” “Protest is Patriotic,” “Justice for Epstein Victims” and “Save Democracy.”
Buttron has said the signs reflect the concern and outrage many have over Trump’s recent actions that threaten “representative democracy,” such as the “dismantling of government services and programs and executive overreach.”
Trump supporters waved a large “ULTRA MAGA” flag while a large “TRUMP Make America Great Again” sign was placed on the corner of state routes 64 and 2.
• Full range of rehabilitative therapies -physical, occupational, and speech
• Case management to oversee insurance and Medicare to maximize your benefits
• Beautiful suites completely furnished including TV and phone hookups
Program Goals:
• Increase or restore range of motion and strength
• Teach positioning, mobility, transfers and walking skills
• Reduce pain through use of modalities and adaptive equipment
• Improve cognitive and communication skills
• Promote safe swallowing
Earleen Hinton
Demonstrators both for and against President Donald Trump and his policies carried signs and flags at the “Workers Over Billionaires” rally in downtown Oregon on Monday, Sept. 1.
Rockford man pleads not guilty to felony charges of running from police with a loaded handgun
By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent
A Rockford man accused of running from police while carrying a loaded gun pleaded not guilty Wednesday, Aug. 27, to four felony charges.
Alexander Kurtz, 19, entered his plea when he appeared before Ogle County Associate Judge Anthony Peska for a preliminary hearing with his attorney, Assistant Ogle County Public Defender Eric Morrow.
Morrow told Peska that Kurtz had agreed to waive his right to a preliminary hearing and wished to plead not guilty to all of the charges.
Wednesday was the second court appearance for Kurtz, who was remanded to the Ogle County Jail on Aug. 20 after Peska denied his request to be released from custody as the case proceeds through the court system.
Kurtz is charged with the felony offenses of unlawful use of a stolen firearm, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, resisting a peace officer, and illegal possession of ammunition without a Firearm Owner Identification Card.
AREX Delta X 9 mm handgun despite being told to halt by police. Court documents also claim Kurtz knew the gun was stolen.
During Kurtz’s Aug. 20 detention hearing, Assistant State’s Attorney Allison Huntley said Kurtz ignored commands to halt and ran through a residential area in Byron with the gun that was loaded with 17 rounds, but had no bullet in the chamber.
Peska disagreed, noting that Kurtz failed to comply with the deputy’s directions while carrying a loaded, stolen gun.
All the charges stem from an Aug. 19 traffic stop in Byron.
Kurtz was arrested by Ogle County sheriff’s deputies when the vehicle he was a passenger in was stopped at 6:39 p.m. near the intersection of West Blackhawk Drive and South Fox Run Lane in Byron.
Court documents say Kurtz ran away from a deputy while carrying an
Police said the gun was stolen out of Rockford and that Kurtz did not have a FOID card.
Morrow asked Peska to release Kurtz since he had no criminal history, was employed, and could stay with family as his case proceeds through the court system. Morrow argued that Kurtz had not “brandished” the weapon and should be released since he had no criminal history.
After the Wednesday hearing, Peska remanded Kurtz to the Ogle County Jail, stating that his detention was needed for the “safety of the community” and to ensure Kurtz’s appearance for future court dates. Peska set Kurtz’s next court date for 1 p.m. Sept. 17.
The driver of the vehicle Kurtz was riding in, Skylar J Risner, 20, of Rockford, was cited for improper lane use and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. He was released on a notice to appear.
Another passenger, Jordan Jarvis, 20, of Sterling, was cited for unlawful possession of cannabis as a passenger. He was released with a notice to appear.
Alexander Kurtz
Chana Methodist church to celebrate 150 years
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Chana Methodist Church will celebrate its 150th year Sept. 7.
A 10:30 a.m. service will be dedicated to children and their grandparents. There will be a luncheon at noon, historic displays, reminiscing and slide show. At 1:30 p.m., the church will have a service including special music, past ministers and more history about the church. Everyone is welcome.
Chana Methodist Church was built in 1875. At that time the fellowship was already 19 years old. Methodist class meetings were started in 1856 under the leadership of Edwin A. Canfield.
Spiritual needs of the early settlers were also met by the Methodist circuit riders. One of the circuit riders points was the Canfield School located west of Chana. The White Oaks schoolhouse, built about one mile southeast of Chana, was also a point on the circuit.
Eventually the White Oak congregation became large enough to support its own pastor, and it was during the pastorate of the Rev. Z.D. Paddock that the church was built in Chana. The cost was $1,800.
OBITUARY
LAUREL KATHERINE EDGAR CHRISTIANSON
Born: April 15, 1945 in Rockford, IL
Died: August 18, 2025 in Fort Smith , AR
Laurel K. Edgar Christianson ascended to be with Jesus on August 18, 2025. She was born April 15, 1945, in Rockford, Illinois to James Fredrick Edgar, son of William J. Edgar and Eliza Hall, and Juanita Fern Shank, daughter of Harry W. Shank and Dorothy Cox. She grew up in Stillman Valley and graduated from Stillman Valley High School in 1963. She also attended Northern Illinois University studying art. She was kind and loving to everyone in her life and adored her family. In the latter 1970’s she
At the time the church was built, it was the last building on Main Street. It was approached by a wooden sidewalk, and the wooden steps led to two entrance doors. The interior of the church was quite elaborate with red carpeting, black horse-hair and walnut pulpit furniture, a pump organ and a marble topped table used for communion.
The church was formally dedicated on Sept. 8, 1875, by the Rev. Luke Hitchcock of Chicago.
For many years the Chana Methodist Church was part of a three point circuit that included the churches of Paynes Point, Lighthouse and Chana. Service was held in Lighthouse in the morning, in the afternoon at Chana and evenings at Paynes Point. Later, Lighthouse and Chana became a two point charge.
In the 1890s, the church was remodeled, and a single entry was built. With some later modifications and additions.
The members of the congregation still receive communion at the rail. which was part of the original structure.
Chana United Methodist Church continues to play an active part in the community, and its influence is broadened by people who left the area, but were formerly a part of the generations who built the church.
left Illinois and moved to Southern California with her three children. She enjoyed art, and assisting her son with family ancestry. She had multiple direct descendants from Pennsylvania that served in the War for Independence during the Revolution. She was preceded in death by her husband Don A. Walker of San Bernardino, California and her parents. She is survived by her sons Christopher D. Johnson and spouse Jennifer R. Johnson of Phoenix, Arizona, Frank G. Garcia and spouse Roxanne Garcia of Fort Smith, Arkansas, and daughter Cristina M. Walters of Fort Smith, Arkansas. She had seven grandchildren, Christian, Alexia, Nigil, Colin, Adalia, Kelly, Sean, and Clayton and four great grandchildren, Bellamy, Bryer, Nash, and Robert, and brothers Patrick and Jay Edgar. Arrangements were made by Lewis Funeral Chapel of Fort Smith. Her wishes were to be interred with her husband at Montecito Memorial Park in Colton, California.
Warranty deeds
• Tiffany Cravatta to Jacob Michael Hedden, 511 E. Buffalo St., Polo, $117,500.
• Marilyn L Gecan, deceased by heirs, to Zachary R Harden, 902 S. Third St., Oregon, $187,000.
• Dan Luepkes to F3 Realty Mm LLC, one parcel in Mt. Morris Township: 08-26-426011, $127,500.
• Mt Morris Church Of The Brethren to Rodney R Caldwell and Denise L Caldwell, 202 W. Center St., Mt.Morris, $65,000.
• Domingo Ortega-Ortega and Domingo Ortega Ortega to Michael Wolf and Hailey B Wolf, 402 North St., Monroe Center, $230,000.
• Geraldine E Timmer, deceased by heirs, to Curtis R Timmer and Jennifer A Timmer, 303 N. Walnut Ave., Forreston, $0.
• Roger G Timmer, deceased by heirs, to Kevin C Baumann and Debra A Baumann, one parcel in Forreston Township: 02-09300-001, $0.
• Kimberly Wetzel to City of Oregon, 131 S. Third St., Oregon, $62,000.
• Jacob R Rose to John Lynch, 6809 S. Joanne Ave., Rochelle, $242,500.
• Duane W Capes to Nancy L Capes and Jacob R Rose, 6809 S. Joanne Ave.,
Rochelle, $160,463.
• David J Shaw and Rosslynn E Shaw to Jeffrey Morozink and Lisa Harris, 503 N. Sangamon Lane, Dixon, $375,000.
• Thomas Oliver White Jr. to Manuel C Vasquez and Susan E Vasquez, 804 Madison St., Oregon, $105,000.
• Lindsey Reichert and Evan Reichert to Lindsey Caple, 8366 N. Canary Drive, Stillman Valley, $259,000.
• Shirley M Henson-Gilbert and Shirley M Henson Gilbert to Anthony A Peterson to Michelle M Peterson, 1020 N. Valentine Road, Polo, $85,000.
• Benjamin A Johnson to Jessica Trudeau, 533 Countryside Drive, Stillman Valley, $389,850.
• Peter J Sheldon, Janet L Tamillo and Janet L Sheldon to Kasey Anderson and Kassandra Anderson, 4839 N. Wendorf Road, Monroe Center, $295,000.
• Taylor E Strehl and Jenny L Strehl to John Rudecki, 8560 N. Hales Corner Road, Stillman Valley, $375,000.
Quit claim deeds
• Ian Jaffe to Ian Jaffe, trustee, and Ian Jaffe Declaration Trnamzo2025, one parcel in Marion Township: 05-20-400-003, $0.
• Helen L Wheeler, deceased by executor,
and Estate of Helen L Wheeler to Consolidated Grain And Barge Co. and Consolidated Grain & Barge Co., 10551 E. Titus Road, Rochelle, $0.
• Cristina M Pelayo, Sarah J Pelayo, Jaime S Pelayo, Emilia D Lopez, Charles H Brooks and Whitney N Sprague to Emilia D Lopez, 215 W. Second Ave., Rochelle, $0.
• Cristina M Pelayo, Sarah J Pelayo, Jaime S Pelayo, Emilia D Lopez, Charles H Brooks and Whitney N Sprague to Emilia D Lopez, 128 E. North St., Creston, $0.
• Christopher G Dewey to Jessica S Dewey, 105 N. High St., Kings, $0.
• Karen M Hey, deceased by heirs, to Martin A Hey Sr., 8297 S. Main St., Dixon, $0.
• Daniel Williams and Danielle Williams to Dennis L Williams and Laura E Williams, 1008 W. Ave. B, Rochelle, $0.
• Kennyth J Grimes and Matthew D Grimes to Sheryl L Grimes, 709 S. Second St., Oregon, $0.
• Gary Duane Blobaum and Amy Blobaum to Gary Duane Blobaum, trustee, Amy Joan Blobaum, trustee, and Blobaum Family Lv Tr, 3073 N. Silver Ridge Drive, Oregon, $0.
Executors deed
• Helen L Wheeler, deceased by executor,
ATTENTION EXHIBITORS!
2025 SAUK VALLEY
and Estate of Helen L Wheeler to Consolidated Grain And Barge Co. and Consolidated Grain & Barge Co., two parcels in Flagg Township: 24-32-401-006 and 24-32-402004, $33,000.
• Roger A Hickey, trustee, and Roger A Hickey Tr, to Blake A Benesh, one parcel in Marion Township: 10-19-300-013, $384,000.
Deeds in trust
• James T McKenzie to Bruce L Hiscox, trustee, Brenda C Hiscox, trustee, and Family Hiscox Lv Tr, 2747 Brooks Island Road, Oregon, $0.
Trustees deeds
• Curtis R Timmer, trustee, Debra A Baumann, trustee, and Geraldine E Timmer Family Trust to Debra A Baumann and Kevin C Baumann, 11537 N. Baileyville Road, Forreston, and one parcel in Forreston Township: 02-09-400-003, $0.
• Curtis R Timmer, trustee, Geraldine E Timmer Family Trust and Debra A Baumann, trustee, to Curtis R Timmer and Jennifer A Timmer, 11537 N. Baileyville Road, Forreston, and one parcel in Forreston Township: 02-09-400-003, $0.
• Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office
OCUSD announces 2025 athletic hall of fame class
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The OCUSD Athletic Hall of Fame Committee has announced the second class of inductees into the newly established Oregon Community School District No. 220 Athletic Hall of Fame. The committee thanks all who submitted nominations last spring.
Here are the individuals and teams that will be honored at the induction ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 18, and introduced to the public at halftime of the Oregon-Winnebago home football game on Friday, Oct. 17.
Coach: Paul (Pat) Holland (longtime football coach at OHS)
Coach: Art Carlson (longtime Oregon track and cross country coach)
Coach: John Bothe (longtime football coach at OHS)
Athlete: Nelson Potter (MMHS
Class of 1930, played Major League Baseball, pitched in 1944 World Series)
Athlete: Rob Urish (MMHS football/basketball/track early 1960s)
Athlete: Bob Barnett (late 1970s Oregon basketball/baseball)
Athlete: Alana Krick (Murray) (early 1980s MMHS volleyball/basketball/track)
Friend of Athletics: John Cain (longtime Oregon High School athletic trainer)
Team: 1950-51 and 1951-52 Mt. Morris Boys Basketball (nicknamed “Whiz Kids” – only one loss each season)
Team: 2000 Oregon Football (State runner-up)
Team: 2006 Oregon Volleyball (Supersectional final, 36-4 record)
Coach/Administrator: Vern Welp (MMHS and OHS athletic director)
Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
Oregon’s Steven Guardado (25) positions for the ball against Rochelle’s Anthony Estrada (12) on Saturday, Aug. 30, at the Oregon-Stillman Varsity Soccer Tourney at Oregon Park West.
Rochelle routs Geneseo in season opener
By ANDY COLBERT
Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Any questions the Rochelle football team had after losing a stellar senior class were answered Friday with a resounding 41-14 nonconference win over Geneseo in Rochelle.
One of the biggest questions was replacing seven starters on the offensive and defensive lines.
“We looked like Rochelle football was supposed to be,” Hub line coach Erick Olson said. “But, it helps having two backs (Dylan Manning and Roman Villalobos) with over 1,000 yards coming back.”
Manning, who head coach Kyle Kissack thinks could be the best ever to play at Rochelle, started the game with an 89-yard kickoff return. Geneseo appeared to have the 5-foot-11, 185-pound junior bottled up at midfield, but Manning broke free and outran everyone to the goal line.
“Actually, before the game, I envisioned a kickoff return,” Manning said. “I’ve never had one before in high school. Maybe because I was too slow before. One thing I try to do when running is not let the first guy tackle me.”
He did that all night long, rushing for 173 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries.
“Dylan is so dynamic, with great vision and agility,” Kissack said. “He doesn’t come down easy. He is such a humble individual, too.”
Manning’s running mate, Villalobos, also tore through the Maple Leaf defense. A state-caliber wrestler, Villalobos added a pair of scores and had 91 yards up the middle from his fullback position.
The Hub offense was unstoppable until late in the game when the starters were out and Rochelle attempted its only punt.
“Rochelle is what they are advertised to be with their physicality,” said second-year Geneseo coach Matt Furlong, who took over after being the defensive coordinator for Cary-Grove. “They get off the ball well. We didn’t tackle or block good enough.”
Dating back to the genuine slugfests of the 1970s, Geneseo and Rochelle renewed their storied rivalry for the first time in several years. For
now, Rochelle demonstrated they had the upper hand.
After trailing 14-0, the Leafs strung together a 16-play, 68-yard scoring drive, with Furlong showing his coaching chops by going for it on a pair of fourth downs. Quarterback Jackson McAvoy scored on a 3-yard keeper, but his real gem was a last-second pitch to Kye Weinzierl, after nearly being thrown for a loss, on a fourth-down attempt.
The Hubs quickly made it 20-7 on a 5-yard touchdown by Manning. Then, they caught the Leafs off guard with a well-executed onside kick by Aaron Hernandez that was recovered by Jon Andrist.
With two minutes left in the first half, Rochelle was in the end zone again, taking a 27-7 lead on a Manning score.
After forcing a punt, Rochelle took possession at its own 20-yard line with 1:30 left. Quarterback Van Gerber, one of many new starters, efficiently led the Hubs downfield to the 12-yard line before time ran out at the half.
Geneseo put together a solid drive to start the third quarter, but Rochelle’s top defensive returner, Brode Metgzer, blew up a third-down attempt and the drive stalled at midfield.
Villalobos then had Rochelle’s longest run of the game, a 34-yarder, setting up his own TD three plays later to make it 34-7.
On its next possession, Geneseo pulled within 34-14 on a Weinzierl 33-yard score. During the drive, the Leafs converted their fourth of five fourth-down attempts.
Tyler Gensler, younger brother of all-staters Grant and Garrett, put the game out of reach with a fourth-quarter score for Rochelle.
Geneseo was held to 155 net yards, an average of 2.9 yards per play.
“We stayed disciplined and read our keys,” said Hub DB Mark Green, who led both sides on defense with 10 tackles.
The only glitch for Rochelle was eight penalties for 55 yards, twice allowing Geneseo drives to stay alive.
“It was a great start,” Kissack said. “We had a lot of holes to fill, and it was a challenge for our kids to prove that they could.”
Your Trusted Mortgage Partner
Photo provided by Marcy DeLille
Rochelle’s Roman Villalobos (40) rumbles for yardage during their game with Geneseo on Friday, Aug. 29.
Friday Night Lights
Polo defeated Bushnell-Prairie City 50-0 while Forreston lost to Lena-Winslow 50-12 Friday, Aug. 29, in the first games of the 2025 high school football season.
Photos by Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
TOP LEFT: Polo’s Jordan Reed (14) heads to the endzone against Bushnell-Prairie City on Friday, Aug, 29, in Polo. TOP RIGHT: Polo’s Wyatt Plachno (75) and Damon Rowe (3) flush the Bushnell-Prairie City quarterback out of the pocket during 8-man action Friday. ABOVE: Lena-Winslow’s Alec Schlichting gets a hug from a lineman after scoring a touchdown against Forreston Friday, Aug. 29, at Forreston High School. LEFT: Forreston’s Kayden Loomis scores a touchdown against Lena-Winslow.
CIRCUIT
OGLE COUNTY, IL LINOIS
Estate of: RENEE J. FELTS, Deceased No. 2025 PR 48
CL AIM NOTICE
t, gon, IL 61061, or with the Representative, or both, on or before March 6, 2026, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: August 21, 2025
Tanya M. Harrolle, Representative Ryan M. Olson ARDC 6333161
61061, the Representative, or both, on or before March 13, 2026, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: August 27, 2025
Janette S. Folkers, Representative Ryan M. Olson ARDC 6333161
, of Barrick, Switzer, Long, Balsley & Van Evera, LLP, 6833 Stalter Drive, Rockford, Illinois 61108.
IF YOU HAD KNEE OR HIP REPLACEMENT
SU RGERY AND SUFFERED AN INFECTION between 2020 and the present time, you may be entitled to compensation.
Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson
1-800-535-5727
Place your Garage Sale ad online 24/7 at www.ShawLo ca l.com/ garage sale s Email: classified@ shawlocal.com or call 815-526-4645
CHOKECHERRIES Free - You pick 601 E. Oregon St Polo
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, IL LINOIS Estate of:
RENEE J. FELTS, Deceased No. 2025 PR 48 CL AIM NOTICE
Notice is given of the death of RENEE J FELTS. Letters of Office were issued to TANYA M. HARROLLE, 1256 Glacier Dr., Byron, IL 61010, as Representative, whose attorneys are WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C., 202 E 5th Street, Sterling, Illinois 61081.
Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061, or with the Representative, or both, on or before March 6, 2026, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: August 21, 2025
Tanya M. Harrolle, Representative Ryan M. Olson ARDC 6333161
WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C.
Attorneys for Estate
202 E. 5th Street
P.O. Box 400 Sterling, IL 61081
P: 815.625.8200 olson@wmpj.com
August 29, Sept. 5, 12, 2025
Notice is given of the death of RENEE J FELTS. Letters of Office were issued to TANYA M. HARROLLE, 1256 Glacier Dr., Byron, IL 61010, as Representative, whose attorneys are WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C., 202 E 5th Street, Sterling, Illinois 61081. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061, or with the Representative, or both, on or before March 6, 2026, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: August 21, 2025
Tanya M. Harrolle, Representative Ryan M. Olson ARDC 6333161 WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C. Attorneys for Estate 202 E. 5th Street P.O. Box 400 Sterling, IL 61081 P: 815.625.8200 olson@wmpj.com
August 29, Sept. 5, 12, 2025
WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C.
Attorneys for Estate
202 E. 5th Street P.O. Box 400 Sterling, IL 61081
P: 815.625.8200 olson@wmpj.com
August 29, Sept. 5, 12, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
OGLE COUNTY, IL LINOIS
Estate of:
JOYCE I. GATZ, Deceased
No. 2025 PR 50 CL AIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of JOYCE I. GATZ. Letters of Office were issued to JANETTE S FOLKERS, 2535 South Wilson Mill Road, Polo, IL 61064, as Representative, whose attorneys are WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C., 202 E 5th Street, Sterling, Illinois 61081.
Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061, or with the Representative, or both, on or before March 13, 2026, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: August 27, 2025
Janette S. Folkers, Representative Ryan M. Olson ARDC 6333161
WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C. Attorneys for Estate
202 E. 5th Street
P.O. Box 400 Sterling, IL 61081
P: 815.625.8200 olson@wmpj.com
WARD, MURRAY, PACE & JOHNSON, P.C.
Attorneys for Estate
202 E. 5th Street P.O. Box 400 Sterling, IL 61081 P: 815.625.8200 olson@wmpj.com
Sept. 5, 12, 19, 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, IL LINOIS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: BERNADINE T. MACK, deceased NO. 2025-PR-51 CL AIM NOTICE NOTICE IS GIVEN of the death of BERNADINE T. MACK of Oregon, Illinois. Letters of office were issued on August 18, 2025, to STILLMAN BANCCORP N.A , 8492 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, whose attorney is David A Smith, of Smith Law Group, P.C. at 129 South Fourth Street, P. O. Box 10, Oregon, Illinois, 61061-0010. CLAIMS against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court at Ogle County Judicial Center, 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, Illinois, 61061, or with the representative, or both, within 6 months from the first publication of this Notice, or within three months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probat e Act, 1975, as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed with in that period is barred. Copies of claims filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the estate legal representative and to the attorney within 10 days after the claim has been
Og County Judicial Center, 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, Illinois, 61061, or with the representative, or both, within 6 months from the first publication of this Notice, or within three months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probat e Act, 1975, as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed with in that period is barred. Copies of claims filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the estate legal representative and to the attorney within 10 days after the claim has been filed.
Claims against the Estate may be filed on or before March 5, 2026, that date being at least 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 mailing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 1975 as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above shall be barred.
Publication Notice
Joseph McCoy, Senior Trust Officer Stillman BancCorp N.A., Independent Executor August 29, Sept. 5, 12, 2025
STATE OF IL LINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY PROBATE DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: Roger E Cunz Deceased CASE NO 2025-PR-59 CL AIM NOTICE NOTICE is given of the death of ROGER E CUNZ, who died on May 29, 2025. Letters of Office were issued on July 25, 2025, to Roger E Cunz, Jr, 80 Riveside Road, Rockford, IL, 61114, who is the legal representative of the estate The attorney for the estate is Michael J. Smith, of Barrick, Switzer, Long, Balsley & Van Evera, LLP, 6833 Stalter Drive, Rockford, Illinois 61108. Claims against the Estate may be filed on or before March 5, 2026, that date being at least 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 mailing or delivery is required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 1975 as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above shall be barred. Claims against the Estate may be filed in the Office of the
Claims against the Estate may be filed in the Office of the Ogle County Circuit Clerk, Probate Division at the Ogle County Courthouse, 106 5th Street, Oregon, Illinois, 61061, or with the Estate legal representative, or both.
Copies of claims filed with the Circuit Clerk's Office, Probate Division, must be mailed or delivered to the Estate legal representative and to his attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.
Dated: /s/Roger E Cunz, Jr, Executor Michael J. Smith BARRICK, SWITZER, LONG, BALSLEY & VAN EVERA, LLP 6833 Stalter Drive Rockford, IL 61108 (815)962-6611 service.msmith@ bslbv.com
September 5, 12, 19, 2025
As sumed Name Publication Notice Public Notice is hereby given that on August 26, 2025, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County Clerk's Office setting forth the names and postoffice address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as:
BK Exteriors loca ted at 7926 S Pine St Grand Detour, IL 61021
Dated August 26, 2025. Laura J. Cook
Laura J. Cook Ogle County Clerk
September 5, 12, 19, 2025
Public Notice is hereby given that on August 25, 2025, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County Clerk's Office setting forth the names and post office address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as: Cleary Exteriors Pressure Washing 389 Red Fox Dr Davis Junction, IL 61020
Dated: August 25, 2025. s/Laura J. Cook Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk Sept. 5, 12, 19, 2025
Publication Notice
Public Notice is hereby given that on August 13, 2025, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County Clerk's Office setting forth the names and post office address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as: Truck '61 11282 N. Leaf River Rd., P.O. Box 4 Leaf River, IL 61047
Dated: August 13, 2025.
s/Laura J. Cook
Laura J. Cook, Ogle County Clerk Aug. 29, Sep. 5, 12, 2025
Notice of pub lic hear ing on the Polo Communi ty Unit S ch ool Distri ct #222
Tentative Bud get for July 1, 2025Jun e 30, 2026.
NOTICE IS HEREBY G IVEN by the Board of Education of the Polo Community Unit School District #222 in the Counties of Lee, Ogle, and Whiteside, State of Illinois, that the tentative budget for the said school district for the fis-
Notice of pub lic hear ing on the Polo Communi ty Unit S ch ool Distri ct #222 Tentative Bud get for July 1, 2025Jun e 30, 2026. NOTICE IS HEREBY G IVEN by the Board of Education of the Polo Community Unit School District #222 in the Counties of Lee, Ogle, and Whiteside, State of Illinois, that the tentative budget for the said school district for the fiscal year beginning on July 1, 2025, will be on file and conveniently available for public inspection at Aplington Middle SchoolDistrict Office- 610 East Mason, Polo, Illinois, 61064 between the hours of 8:00 am - 3:30 pm The Budget is also available online at poloschools.net beginning on August 14, 2025.
Notice is further hereby given that a public hearing on said budget will be held at 6:00 pm on September 17, 2025 at Centennial Elementary School, 308 S. Pleasan t, Polo, IL 61064, to provide an opportunity for public comment regarding the proposed budget.
The purpose of this public hearing is to inform residents about the district's estimated expenditures and revenue for the upcoming school year prior to the budget vote
Sept. 5, 2025
Notice The Polo Community School District will be holding a Public Hearing on September 17, 2025 at 6:05pm at Centennial Elementary School 308 S. Pleasan t Avenue. This Public Hearing is to continue to offer ELearning Days in lieu of Emergency Days.
Sept. 5, 2025
Don't need it? Sell it! Place a classified ad with us! 833-584-NEWS
APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE 25-08
BE IT ORDAINED by the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of Mt. Morris, IL:
Section 1. That for the purpose of defraying all the necessary expenses and liabilities of the Village of Mt. Morris for the following sums, or so much thereof as by law may be authorized and the same are here-by set aside and appropriated for the following purposes.
