SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Centennial Elementary School
Donuts with Santa (9-11am)
Kids Craft Corner
Concessions by Polo FFA
POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS
Roof project
County Board member says roof project for historic Ogle County Courthouse ‘moving ahead’/ 5
Roundabout plans
IDOT details plans for $2M proposed roundabout north of Rochelle / 3 NEWS
POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS
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U.S. News & World Report: Centennial School in Polo among best elementary schools
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Centennial Elementary School in Polo has been ranked among the 2026 Best Elementary Schools by U.S. News & World Report.
The rankings include about 47,000 public elementary schools. Schools are ranked at the state and district level.
“We are honored that Centennial School has been recognized among the 2026 Best Elementary Schools by U.S. News & World Report,” Dr. Melydi Huyett said. “This distinction reflects the dedication of our teachers, staff, students, and families who work together each day to create a supportive and high-achieving learning envi -
ronment. We are proud of our school community and grateful for this recognition of our shared commitment to excellence.
Centennial School has been named to the list for the third year in a row.
The methodology focuses on state assessments of students who were proficient or above proficient in mathematics and reading/language arts while accounting for student backgrounds, achievement in core subjects, and how well schools are educating their students. Student-teacher ratios are applied to break ties in the overall score.
“Recognizing schools that consistently deliver high-quality education, U.S. News’ 2026 Best Elementary and
Distributing
food to those in need
Middle Schools rankings showcase institutions that empower students from a variety of backgrounds,” said LaMont Jones, managing editor for education at U.S. News. “This data-rich resource helps parents choose schools that are truly making a difference in children’s academic journeys.”
Parents, educators and students can see how Centennial School compares with other institutions and how the rankings are calculated on the best elementary schools on USNews.com.
“Centennial School celebrates this recognition as a reflection of our community’s dedication to student success and excellence,” according to a Polo Schools news release. “It’s a great day to be a Polo Marco!”
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Earleen Hinton
Volunteers from the Polo Lifeline Food Pantry help distribute food items Nov. 19 from the Northern Illinois Food Bank’s mobile market truck. People waited in their vehicles and took turns filling shopping carts during the morning event in the parking area next to the pantry in Polo.
IDOT details plans for $2M proposed roundabout north of Rochelle
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
Ogle County residents on Nov. 18 were able to get a glimpse at the Illinois Department of Transportation’s plans regarding a proposed roundabout for the state Route 251 and state Route 64 intersection north of Rochelle.
The plans were shared Tuesday night during a public online meeting led by IDOT program development engineer Michael Kuehn, IDOT project manager and geometrics engineer Rob Bates, and Crawford, Murphy & Tilly Inc. project manager Andrew Schlichting.
IDOT has undertaken a preliminary engineering and environmental study of the intersection to examine suitable traffic control alternatives that address the safety and mobility of traffic currently experienced at the intersection.
“This intersection has been a safety concern for some time,” Schlichting said. “The recent restriping step is a temporary step to try to improve safety until we can work through the entire process and get a more permanent solution implemented. IDOT is studying this intersection because of the crash history. This intersection has seen twice the rate of injury crashes statewide. It’s the combination of two high-speed routes and right-angle crashes that are the cause of injuries.”
The intersection currently is a fourway stop. Illinois Route 251 previously was four lanes at the intersection before the recent restriping project reduced the lanes to two.
The proposal for the intersection is a modern roundabout with a 20-footwide circulating single lane. The center of the roundabout and long splitter islands would deflect entering vehicles approaching the roundabout.
A 12-foot-wide concrete truck apron, located just outside of the central island, is proposed. The area would accommodate large trucks, farm equipment and emergency vehicles, providing them with an additional area to maneuver through the circle. Entering vehicles would yield to traffic circulating counterclockwise in the circle. Lighting around the roundabout would be installed. Each entry to the roundabout will have a yield sign.
Phase two of the project will involve preparing contract bid plans and phase three would be construction. All three phases currently are funded. The total project is estimated to cost $2.05 mil -
lion, with the bid for the work to be awarded in November 2026. Construction would begin in the spring of 2027 and be completed by the end of summer 2027. The project could take shorter or longer depending on whether traffic is allowed through the area or a detour is put into place.
Illinois Route 251 and Illinois Route 64 carry about 5,000 vehicles per day. Due to crash concerns, rumble strips and flashers were installed at the intersection in the past before the recent restriping.
The intersection saw 26 crashes, 13 injuries and one death from 2015 to 2024. It saw 13 crashes, five injuries and one death from 2020-2024, the meeting’s presentation said.
Sixty-one percent of the total crashes were angle crashes, 62% of the accidents were property damage, 15% were possible injury, 15% were non-incapacitating injury and 8% were fatal.
Schlichting said potentially installing signals at the intersection would not improve safety the way a roundabout would. Roundabouts result in an 82% reduction in fatal and injury crashes over a traffic signal, according to a Federal Highway Administration study cited during the meeting.
“We understand that people have concerns about roundabouts being unnecessary or confusing,” Schlichting said. “Their potential for saving lives is just too significant to ignore.”
The proposed roundabout would be about 150 feet in diameter. The narrowest part between two curbs anywhere on the roundabout would be 24 feet, the width of two lanes on the highway, Schlichting said. The meeting showed a concept video of semi trucks and farm equipment moving through the intersection.
IDOT has found no potential impacts of the change so far that would delay the project. IDOT will need to purchase some private property for right of way for the roundabout, less than one acre.
IDOT is evaluating potential detours of traffic through the construction. Illinois Route 251 traffic would be detoured to Interstate 39, and Illinois Route 64 traffic likely would be detoured to Illinois Route 72.
With a full closure, the construction would take two months. With traffic during construction, it likely would take all of summer 2027. Construction would be done in the summer with spring planting and fall harvest operations in mind.
The proposal for the state Route 251 and Route 64 intersection north of Rochelle is
modern roundabout with a 20-foot-wide circulating single lane. The center of the roundabout and long splitter islands would deflect entering vehicles approaching the roundabout.
It was quite a week with pie making and visiting cousins
For the way the week started out, it ended up rather nicely.
I had gotten up early Monday morning and was just plain sick. For two days, I sat huddled in my chair, covered up with a blanket, and not wanting to do anything. My granddaughter, Amy, who is a physician would say, “Grandma, you have a virus.”
I kept thinking of all the work that needed to be done at the museum to get the place in shape for our Christmas party Dec. 3, but for two and a half days, I couldn’t care less. Finally on Thursday, I had to pull myself together and start thinking about making two pecan pies for the ham loaf dinner on Saturday night for my church.
My last pie making was in the summer when the peaches were delicious and I made my usual fresh peach pie. As I took it out of the oven, the pie tin slipped from my fingers and the peach pie ended upside down on the oven door. Bruce and Robin happened to be here that day and I yelled for help. Bruce surveyed the situation and calmly said, “Mom, none of it has gone on the floor.” He simply took a spatula and piled it back into the pie pan.
POLO HISTORY
Betty Obendorf
We had peach cobbler instead of peach pie. It was still good.
Thursday afternoon Linda called and invited me to go with them to the open house of our funeral home now at their new place, which had been the American Legion home. My hair was a mess, but I wanted to see what was happening in Polo, so, of course, I went. It has been turned into a great place for the Polo Funeral Home, and I am happy it is now being used.
Friday morning I assembled ingredients for my pies and it was pie making day. After they were all baked and out on the counter cooling, I finally could relax. It was time to head to the computer and see who had emailed me. I also am working with Storyworth and starting to write a book of my life for the family. This week it was to be a chapter about my grandparents.
I quickly wrote a page, hit a key at the
bottom of the computer, and my written page disappeared. I had not saved as I went along. I have not done that for a long time, but that has happened in the past. I do not know what I hit on my computer or where my written page goes, but it is out there somewhere. So I just start again and remember to save as I go along.
Krista came on Saturday morning loaded down with German hand-blown ornaments for the great-grandchildren, Christmas cards for the church, and my Christmas letter all nicely done with pictures.
We worked on bags for all the great-grandchildren and then headed for Forreston to gather with Waterbury cousins. It was the visitation for Lois Rugland Swalve Boland, who had made it to 96 and had last lived in Portland, Oregon. It was nice to see her daughter Linda and all of her family. Bruce joined us and we had a good visit with many Waterbury cousins. It was a beautiful warm day to end the week.
• Betty Obendorf is a retired teacher and volunteer for the Polo Historical Society.
PACT to present ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ Dec. 5-7 and Dec. 12-13 in Polo Polo Area Community Theatre is in rehearsals for its next production, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” by Barbara Robinson.
In this beloved classic, the Herdman kids, who are the worst kids in the history of the world, wind up in the six main roles in a Christmas pageant. What follows is chaotic, hilarious and heartwarming.
The show will be presented at the Old Polo Town Hall at 7 p.m. Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6, 2 p.m. Dec. 7, 7 p.m. Dec. 12 and 2 p.m. Dec. 13.
Tickets are available at www.polotheatre.org or at the door.
In 2026, Agatha Christie’s “A Murder is Announced” will be presented on Feb. 13, 14, 15, 20 and 21. “Clue the Musical” will be presented on May 1, 2, 3, 8 and 9. “Tom ’n Huck” will be on July 10, 11 and 12 – Shaw Local News Network
Roof project for historic Ogle County Courthouse ‘moving ahead’
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
The roof replacement project for Oregon’s historic Ogle County Courthouse is moving right along, according to the chairman of the county’s Long Range and Strategic Planning Committee.
“The project is moving ahead. You’ve noticed that besides the scaffolding being up there they are doing some repairs up there,” Don Griffin, of Oregon (District 5), told fellow board members Tuesday, Nov. 18. “They are doing the underlayment for the new material to come in and be put down.”
Griffin said crews had been switching out the stainless steel flashing used in the valleys of the 134-year-old building, opting instead for something that was a better match for the new shingles.
“We did make a change because the stainless steel really showed up in a way we didn’t want to in the valleys, so we changed that to a material that’s going to match the roofing shingles,” he said. “And that will make it look a lot better for the historic building that we have here.”
Scaffolding surrounds the historic Ogle County Courthouse in Oregon as Sterling Commercial Roofing workers remove slate shingles from the 134-year-old structure Nov. 19.
The picturesque courthouse was built in 1891 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981. It has undergone several renovations during its life and still houses the county offices of County Clerk and Recorder, and Treasurer.
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The Ogle County Judicial Center, built in 2005 and located across South Fifth Street just west of the courthouse, contains courtrooms, judicial offices, and the county offices of the Circuit Clerk, State’s Attorney, and
Probation Department.
This year’s roof project is one of several restorations and maintenance projects completed on the historic courthouse over several years.
In October, the County Board awarded the 2025 roof contract to Sterling Commercial Roofing, which was the low bidder for the project at $813,125, with a $30,000 general contingency allowance.
The new shingles are replacing slate shingles and are expected to maintain the historical status of the building and have a similar lifespan but not break or crack.
Griffin told the board that he expects the rest of the roofing material to arrive early in December.
“I think it’s going to be somewhere in that first week in December so we can move along with that process,“ Griffin said.
Griffin said information about the old roof has been submitted to the county’s insurance company. The cost of the project is being covered partially by insurance.
“So that’s going along very well, very nicely, and hopefully we’ll have a mild winter,” Griffin said.
• Beautiful suites completely furnished including TV and phone hookups
• 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
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2025
9AM - 11AM: Rolls & Coffee
@ First United Methodist Church
9AM - 2PM: Christmas Corner
@ First United Methodist Church
11AM - 1PM: Soup, Sandwich, and Salad Luncheon
@ First United Methodist Church
4PM - SOLD: Tasty Treats Cookie Sale (benefiting Faith Lutheran) @ Forreston Library (community Room)
5PM - 6PM: FJHS/FHS Carolers Performing @ Downtown Forreston & Memorial Park
5PM - 7PM: Kiddo Christmas Crafts @ Forreston Library
5PM - 8PM:
Vendor/Craft Show @ Forreston Grade School Gym
Beauty Vendor Show @ Salon K
Chili Cook Off & Chili Bar @ Forreston Grade School Cafeteria
5PM - 5:30PM: Registration & Line Up, Light Up Santa Parade @ Ash St.
5:30PM - 6PM: Light Up Santa Parade
5:30 - 8PM: Cookies & Cocoa & Nothing Bundt Cakes Sales (benefiting EMS team) @ Forreston Fire Dept.
6PM: Community Tree Lighting With Santa @ Memorial Park
6PM - 7PM: Candy Cane Express: Forreston Holiday Lights, rounding back to Memorial Park
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2025 (cont.)
6PM - 7:30PM:
Santa Visit & Christmas List Submission @ Memorial Park Hot Cocoa at the Park (Sponsored by FABA) @ Memorial Park S'mores Bar @ Memorial Park
Chana UMC Candlelight Christmas event set for Saturday, Dec. 6
The annual Candlelight Christmas Event begins at 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Chana United Methodist Church, located at 606 N. Main St. in Chana.
The program, “Tis the Season for Laughter,” features speaker and humor author Mary Kay Morrison.
After the program, a dessert/snack buffet will be held in the social hall. There is no admission charge. A door prize drawing will be held at the close of the program.
All are welcome to attend. Call the church office at 815-732-7683 or Carole Sutton at 815-595-4559 by Dec. 2 if you plan to attend.
– Shaw Local News Network
OGLE COUNTY PROPERTY TRANSFERS
Nov. 17-21, 2025
Warranty Deeds
• Annette M. Martin to Northeastern Heritage Llc, 1 Parcel: 1200 S Blackhawk, Oregon, $485,000
• Heather C. Bumber, Rae D. Bumber, and Rachel D. Bumber, 1 Parcel: 816 N 3rd St, Rochelle, $125,000
• Kole Weaver and Kelsie Weaver to Jacob Bonnell and Mackenzie, 6000 S Hickory Rd, Oregon, and 1 parcel in Grand Detour Township: 21-03-200-014, $598,650
• Larry D. Bull and Mary K. Bull to Contry Homes Group Llc, 309 Vermillion Lane, Dixon, $0.00
• Tina Barnhart to Carrie Smoot, 1 Parcel: 415 S Franklin Ave, Polo, $68,000
• Irene Roberts, Irene Garza and Michael Roberts to Adrianna Morales, 1 Parcel: 620 N 9th St, Rochelle, $187,000
• Mauricio A. Luna Sr. and Marisol Luna to Zachary J. Eastman and Maddisyn E. Knouse, 1 Parcel: 6318 E IL Rte 72, Stillman Valley, $450,000
• Clinton D. Capes and Melissa Capes to Stephanie Lynn Hada and Thomas L. Hada, 1 Parcel: 230 Lake Lida Ln, Rochelle, $270,000
• Cerby E. Merrill to Andrew L. Fortener and Alisha J. Fortener, 1 Parcel: 396 W Margaret Fuller Rd, Oregon, $291,000
• Phillip L. Salstrom Iii and Melissa A. Salstrom to Doug Mason and Fawn Mason, 1 Parcel: 15303 E IL Rte 72, Davis Junction, $615,000
• Anthony Robert Buckel Jr. to Kole Weaver, 1 Parcel: 5600 S Hickory Rd, Oregon, $376,694
• Busser Properties Llc to William Ivan Navas and Jennifer Navas, 1 Parcel: 628-630 N Allison Cir, Byron, $240,000
• Oran Wilder and Theresa F. Wilder to Paul Koser and Lisa Koser, 1 Parcel: 17065 W IL Rte 64, Polo, $255,000
• Debra A. Pontnack to Loren Posner, 1 Parcel: 207 E Lincoln St, Mt. Morris, $105,000
• Larry L. Voss and Debra L. Voss to Brent Schrader and Christian Schrader, 1 Parcel: 7683 N Kylewood Drive, Stillman Valley, $626,500
• Jacob J. Mrozek and Cassidy M. Mrozek to Jacob William Quantrell and Mackenzie Quantrell, 1 Parcel: 3941 E Whippoorwill Ln, Byron, $325,000
Quit Claim
• Rachael M. Rogers Trustee and Rachael M. Rogers Tr1 to Rebecca Marie Wright-Cowan and Rebecca Marie Wright Cowan, 1 Parcel: 301 S Barber Ave, Polo, $0.00
Trustees Deeds
• Ruth Ann Yeaton Trustee, Ruth Ann Yeaton Tr, and Norman J. Yeaton Tr. to Israel Contreras, 1 Parcel: 4364 N Center Rd, Rochelle, $229,900
• Steven Dietrich Trustee, Gregory Dietrich Trustee, Robert W. Dietrich Lv Tr, Robert W. Dietrich Residuary Tr, and Donna J. Dietrich Lv Tr to Steven R. Dietrich, 1 Parcel: 2770 W West Grove Rd, Leaf River, $0.00
• Curtis R. Freeberg Trustee, Curtis R. Freeberg Tr, and Norma Freeberg Tr to Kolla Ag Llc, 2 Parcels in Marion Township: 05-33-426-003 and 05-34-302-001, $533,450
Deeds in Trust
• Jonathan H. Dahm and Pamela L. Dahm to Jonathan H. Dahn Trustee, Pamela L. Dahm Trustee, and Dahm Family Tr925, 1 Parcel: 1002 Illinois St, Oregon, $0.00
• Robert D. Hansen and Elizabeth A. Hansen to Robert D. Hansen Trustee, Elizabeth A. Hansen Trustee, and Hansen Ranch Tr608, 1 Parcel: 2936 S Harmony Rd, Oregon, $0.00
• Steven R. Meiners Trustee, John L. Meiners Trustee, and Meinerz Family Tr. to Lyle A. Bushman and Sandra F. Bushman, 1 Parcel in Eagle Point Township: 13-12-400005, $981,688
• Arthur G. Artman and Pamela J. Artman to Arthur G. Artman Trustee, Pamela J. Artman Trustee, and Arthur G & Pamela J. Artman Tr, 4471 Mud Creek Rd, Mt. Morris, and 1 Parcel in Mt. Morris Township: 08-26-401-015, $0.00
– Shaw Local News Network
Notice of Proposed Property Tax Increase for the Township of Mt. Morris
I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy increase for the Township of Mt. Morris for 2025 will be held on December 11, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Village Hall, 105 W. Lincoln St., Mt. Morris, IL 61054.
Any person desiring to appear at the public hearing and present testimony to the taxing district may contact Paula Diehl, Township Clerk, 105 W. Lincoln St., Mt. Morris, IL 61054. Telephone: (815) 734-4525.
II. The Road District property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $233,160.
The proposed Road District property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $260,471. This represents a 11.71% increase over the previous year.
III. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2024 were $0.
The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2025 are $0. This represents 0.0% increase over the previous year.
IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $233,160.
The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $260,471. This represents a 11.71% increase over the previous year.
Oregon’s 39th annual Candlelight Walk is Nov. 29
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Oregon’s 39th annual Candlelight Walk will be Saturday, Nov. 29.
The event will be from 3 to 8 p.m.
Thirty-nine years ago, a group of merchants in Oregon’s Conover Square Mall combined their energies and created the first Candlelight Walk to celebrate the holiday season.
Little did those businesses know that the event would grow to encompass the entire community and the celebration would become recognized as one of the best small town holiday events in Illinois. The current organizers thank those Conover Square businesses for their vision and creativity to create a lasting legacy for the community.
OBITUARIES
JEANNE LEE EWART (NÉE HIBBERD)
Born: January 26, 1943
Died: November 19, 2025
MT. MORRIS, IL –Jeanne Lee Ewart (née Hibberd), age 82, of Mt. Morris, IL, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2025, in Oregon, Illinois. Born on January 26, 1943, in Aberdeen, Washington, Jeanne lived a life marked by deep devotion to her family, a generous spirit, and an infectious sense of humor that brightened the lives of all who knew her.
Throughout the years, family-focused events have been added, allowing residents and visitors alike to share in the celebration. Conover Square remains a staple in the tradition, offering special entertainment, guest performers and special treats.
Attendees are invited to visit all of the local Oregon businesses, celebrate the community tree-lighting ceremony, enjoy the horse-drawn wagon rides and local entertainment, get treats on Candy Cane Lane, find unique gifts at the Holiday Gift Fair and Sip and Shop at The River’s Edge Experience, visit Santa and have some family fun at the Kid’s Winter Carnival at the United Methodist Church.
Attendees can register at local Red Bow merchants to win special prizes.
Jeanne was a dedicated wife, mother, daughter, and sister whose love and care left an indelible mark on those around her. She is survived by her loving husband, George, of 64 years – whom she often described as the best present she ever received – and their children Donald, Vicki, Toni, and Barbara. Her memory also lives on through her cherished grandchildren Ollie and Logan. Jeanne’s siblings Delbert, Richard, and Max also survive her. She was preceded in death by her parents Eugene and Vivian; siblings John, David, Donald, and Judy; and her beloved granddaughter Madeline Idell.
Throughout her life, Jeanne found joy in the simple pleasures. She was an avid collector of anything she found interesting or beau-
tiful – a reflection of her keen eye for detail and appreciation for the world around her. She loved word search puzzles and reading, often immersing herself in quiet moments of thoughtfulness. Her talents extended to sewing and baking; the warmth of her kitchen was matched only by the warmth of her heart. Jeanne’s generosity knew no bounds. She would help anyone who needed it without hesitation. Her astute nature made her a pillar of strength for those close to her – always dependable and always kind. Her laughter was unforgettable: full-bodied and contagious, it could lift spirits instantly. Even as she faced the challenges of severe dementia later in life, Jeanne never lost that spark. She continued to smile brightly and share giggles with those
around her. Through it all, she never forgot George – the love of her life – often telling others how he called her his “green-eyed blonde.” Her legacy is one of unwavering love and resilience. The values she instilled in those closest to her will continue to echo through generations.
The funeral service for Jeanne will be held on November 24, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Finch Funeral Home, 405 East Hitt, Mt. Morris, IL, with the Rev. Rodney Calwell officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Mt. Morris, IL. A visitation will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025 from 10 a.m. until service time in Finch Funeral Home.
May Jeanne Lee Ewart’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.
Earleen Hinton
Food vendors brave the winter weather to serve visitors on Candy Cane Lane on Nov. 30, 2024, during Oregon’s Candlelight Walk.
WIN A RIDE
W/ SANTA RAFFLE
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025 TH
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
8:30am: Reindeer Run @ Polo Public Library
9:ooam - 11:00am Donuts w/Santa @ Centennial
School Cafeteria: Donuts, photos w/ Santa and Mrs. Claus, coloring activities and temprary tattoos
9:ooam - 1:00pm Craft and Vendor Show @ Centennial Elementary School Crafters and Vendors
FFA Concession Stand
Live music by Korey C. Pepper Music
Christmas craft for children hosted by Pinecreek Christian Church
9:ooam - 6:00pm The Christmas Cupboard
25% off Christmas wreaths, treat bags for children and cookies.
9:ooam - 7:00pm Second Hand Rose
Free gifts for children, $5 fill-a-bag sale.
10:00am - 5:00pm: Our House Antiques
12:00, 1:00, 2:00, & 3:00pm: Historical Trolley Tours @ Polo Historical Society (Trolley kindly provided by gateway Trolley.)
1:00pm-4:00pm: Holiday Sip & Shop @ Chesty P’s / Half Price Appetizers @ Lamplight Tavern
2:00pm: Christmas Sing-A-Long @ Polo Area Community Theatre
4:00pm to 7:00pm: Blackhawk Area Credit Union: Photobooth, refreshments, & gingerbread contest.
Easy Street Emporium: Holiday Games
First State Bank (until 6pm): S’mores on the lawn photobooth.
Gateway Big Box Resale & Kim’s Gateway Antiques: Christmas Carolers, cocoa & coffee
CASE IH FARMALLS
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025 TH
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES (cont.)
4:00pm to 7:00pm:
Jeff’s Refs: Giveaway for children, peppermint White Russian special for 21+
Lamplight Tavern: Holiday-themed drinks, goodie bags, craft & make your own reindeer food on the patio with ROE #47
Lillian Noah Salon: Sugarplum makeovers for all ages and sugarplum cocktails for 21+. Fairy tinsel gift cards for purchase.
Marco Nutrition: Two Sister’s Bakehouse and photos with the Grinch - Thanks to Natalie Blum Photography
Northwestern Mutual: Facepainting by Liandra Jo Artistry
Polo City Hall: Strolling magic w/ TJ Regul, the Quad City Magician, and balloon twisting w/ Busker Entertainment.
Polo Fire Dept.: Mane Street Horse & Wagon Rides, Muddy Nuts Coffee, Broad Street BEAUTique.
Polo Fresh Food Market: Holiday Refreshments
Polo Senior Center: Festival of Trees & gifts for children. Lion’s Club Italian Beef Dinner, Cookie decorating provided by Polo High School, Live Music w/ Audience of One.
Shell Expresslane: Hot cocoa, cookies and holiday coloring pages.
Studio 112: Petting Zoo, customizable press-on nail sets, free hair tinsel clips, DIY ornaments, and more!
WIN A RIDE W/ SANTA RAFFLE
5:00pm - 6:30pm: Winter Carnival @ Crossroads Community Church.
5:00pm - 9:00pm: Live music ft. Two Stroke Johnson @ Chesty P’s
6:30pm: Live Christmas music ft. the Rock River Valley Barbershop Chorus @ Paul’s Park (Mason/Division)
6:45: Parade of Lights (in partnership w/ Polo FFA
7:00pm: Santa’s Arrival & Tree Lighting @ Paul’s Park (Mason/Division)
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: Presented by PACT
A Smile Means More Than Ever
Thanks for trusting us with yours! We wish you a merry and bright holiday season!
CLASSIFIED
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
PIANO - FREE to a good home Kimball Spinet piano with bench in good condition Pecan color Call 815-738-2739
Ogle County Classifieds 833-584-NEWS
Some thing s for sale are: Pontoon boat, furniture, housewares, clothing, linens, jewelr y, art and more! For sale pictures and details go to: https://w ww. estatesales.net/ IL/ Oregon/61061/4700808
PUBL IC NOTICE AN ORDINANCE CONCE RNING THE AMENDMENT OF TITLE 1ADMINISTRATION, CHAPTER 7, DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES , SECTION: 1-4-2 OF THE DISTRICT 'S ADMINISTRATIVE ORDINANCE TO DEFINE IMPROVED LOT, UNIMPROVED LOT, A ND AVAILABILITY CHARGE IN THE LOST LAKE UTILI TY DISTRICT OF OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS ORDINANCE NO. 08-2025 NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Trustees of the Lost Lake Utility District of Ogle County, Illinois as follows :
1. That TITLE 1, CHAPTER 4, DEFI NITIONS : SECTION 1-4-2 be amended by striking paragraph (G-6)) and inserting in its place the following: (G-6) “Improved Lot” shall be a lot (or lots) with a livable residence. An improved lot must be a permanent structure with a foundation; with water and sewer (or septic system) con nected to it The resi dential or commercial structure shall occupy a mi nimum of 800 square feet of the lot; and, th e structure shall be used regularly in the operation or function of the residenc e or commercial structure. Temporary or incidental use of a lot for residential or commercial purposes shall not cause a lot to b e considered an improved lot.
2. That TITLE 1, CHAPTER 4, DEFI NITIONS : SECTION 1-4-2 be amended by adding paragraph (G- 7): (G-7) “Unimpr oved Lot” shall be propert y with no water, sewer (or septic) connection.
Examples of unimprov ed lots include: garage, storage building, driveway, outside storage of vehicle, watercraft, recreational vehicle, mobile home, or septic system
3. That TITLE 1, CHAPTER 4, DEFI NITIONS : SECTION 1-4-2 be amended by striking paragraph (N-6) and inserting in its place the following: (N-6) “Availability Charge” shall mean the charge on all unimproved lots where water and/or sewer is available for hook-up There shall be an availability charge for water and a separate charge for sewer availability When the unimproved lot is improved, the availability charge for that lot shall terminate. Availability charges are based on the original pl otted lots when this community was incorporated as Lost Lake.
4. This Ordinance shall be in full force from and after its passage and approval as provided by law.
Passed by the Board of Trustees of the Lost Lake Utility District of Ogle County, Illinois and approved by the by the Chairman of said District this 18th day of November, 2025
Aye s: 7
Nays: 0
Abstain: 0
APPROVED this 18th day of November, 2025 Nov. 28, 2025
Salary Range:
L; Spain, Jennifer Stephanie D; Tompkins, McArthur, Edward Anthony C; Schwartz, E; Gomez, Adrian Lauer, Sharon Matalin J; McArthur, L; Wolber, Sarah Donna M; Beard, Alyssa N; Meyer, Bausman, Trisha Jr.; Anderson, Ashley; Charles E; Giddings, Gonzalez, Elizabeth; Joshua J; Withers, Derrek; Gonzalez, Solmo, Stacy N; Katelin; Briggs, W; Ditzler, Laura
ILLINOIS STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION School Business Services 217-785-8779
ANNUAL STATEMENT OF AFFAIRS FISCAL YEAR ENDING June 30, 2025
SCHOOL DISTRICT/JOINT AGREEMENT NAME: Oregon Community Unit School District 220 DISTRICT TYPE RCDT NUMBER: 47-071-2200-26 Elementary ADDRESS: 206 S 10th St. Oregon, IL 61061 High School COUNTY: Ogle Unit X NAME OF NEWSPAPER WHERE PUBLISHED: Shaw Media - Ogle County LIFEx Joint Agreement
ASSURANCE
The Annual Statement of Affairs has been posted on the district's website and published in accordance with Section 10-17 of the School Code no later than December 1. (Put “X” in blue box if yes.) Yes X
SIZE OF DISTRICT IN SQUARE MILES 154 NUMBER OF ATTENDANCE CENTERS 2
NUMBER OF CERTIFICATED
The ASA must be posted on the school district’s website and published in a newspaper of general circulation no later than December 1, 2025. Refer to Section 10-17 and Section 10-20.44 of the School Code.
Data previously included in the Annual Statement of Affairs can be found at: Payments to certified personnel Posted on district website per 105 ILCS 5/10-20.47 Student Counts Included in district’s report card
Financial Data
Illinois Report Card
Included in district’s Annual Financial Report posted on ISBE’s Cerberus Server
SALARY SCHEDULE OF GROSS PAYMENTS FOR CERTIFICATED PERSONNEL AND NON-CERTIFICATED PERSONNEL
Salary Range: Less Than $39.999; Gerry, Ashley S; Clapper, Mya L; Spain, Jennifer A; Anderson-Leather, Andrea; Clemente Legg, Stephanie D; Tompkins, Shannon E; Flory, Dana G; Nichols, Christina; McArthur, Edward T; Denler, Kayla J; Gaffey, Breanna T; Bauer, Anthony C; Schwartz, August R; Weems, Logan M; Tomlinson, Grace E; Gomez, Adrian C; Mott, Michael M; Ferrer, Edgar; Groh, Kelly L; Lauer, Sharon J; Garncarz, Samuel A; Anderson, Valerie J; Book, Matalin J; McArthur, Gavyn; Boomgarden, Katelyn E; Danekas, June L; Wolber, Sarah J; Kochsmeier, Jeffrey A; Pudlas, Shaina L; Smith, Donna M; Beard, Jessica N; Huels, Thomas; Cozzi, Melanie; Byerley, Alyssa N; Meyer, Meagan C; Mitchell, Kristin M; Nelson, Sarah; Bausman, Trisha M; Withers, Anna J; Elliott, Kristin; Nordman, Alan T Jr.; Anderson, Ashley; McArthur, Amanda J; Beard, Brandon L; Beard, Charles E; Giddings, Nick; Ramirez, Karrie; Spanbauer, Michaela J; Gonzalez, Elizabeth; Cermak, Lydia R; Robbins, Sharla J; Messenger, Joshua J; Withers, Victoria A; Paul, Noah D; Cermak, Grant M; Rufer, Derrek; Gonzalez, Daniel J; Geeves, Samantha; Meeker, Lyndsey M; Solmo, Stacy N; Rufer, Taylar; Ehrler, Kendra E; Stoos, Trevor; Pudlas, Katelin; Briggs, Jack M; Holland, Paul; Reed, Gabriel S; Engel, John W; Ditzler, Laura J; Eckardt, Kristen A; Mernack, Jody; Johnson,
Salary Range: $40,000 - $54,999; Barnhart, Cindy S; Needham, Jeffery; Lauer, Jacob A; Foss, Marissa J; Degner, Roi J; Bauer, Traci; Pace, Kelly J; Dilbeck, Kenneth A; Burke, James; Stienmetz, Diana L. Salary Range: $55,000 - $74,999; Ludwig, Elizabeth; Callaway Amanda B; Nesemeier, William K
Salary Range: $75,000 and Over; VanVelzer, Zach P; Gadow, Shawn R
Andrea; Shaw, Catherine L; Bennett, Estelle F; Nordman, Alan T; Peterson, Morgan A; Spratt, James W; Cain, Farrell E; Camplain, Robin; Porter, Paula; Lahman, Justin L; Wissmach, Nicole R; Gipper, Timothy J; Barcai, Courtney; Pabon, Angela L; Crosby, Benjamin P; Sarver, Lonie; Gipper, Lori K; Stinson, Steve G; Burrs, Steven R; Mundell, Cynthia D; Sitze, Joshua J; Scott, Kenneth E; Bier, Jill; Thomas, Mindy M; Grygiel, Jennifer; Callaway, Brekk AM; Flaherty, Lester III; Byerley, Carla J; Batton, Rosemary; Howard, Karen L; Priller, Sasha K; Lands, Brandon J; Ruit, Leah M; Bunch, Caitlin M; Spoor, Patricia A; Girton, Nathan H; Manser, Dawn M; Carter, Justin M; Loso, Donald M; Coutts, Marissa A; Hafer, Mikala K; Johnson, Lita M; Murray, Brittany L; Sarver, Cynthia J; Stanley, Leanna; Goldman, Samantha J; Serrano, Carmen S; Lauer, Sarah E; Withers, Mariah L; Dunnavan, Amanda; Hoskins, Donna; Wyatt, Steven; Onley, Daniel T; Warner, Paula K; Sandrock, Kathrina E; Anderson, Benjamin C; Pasley, Cameron M; Zshornack, Tegan; George, Angela; Bull, April A; Harrolle, Angela J; Kelly, Debra; Dempewolf, Connie F; Hanlin, Susan D; Peralta, Ilean A; Braden, Susan J; Wicklund, Angela M; Rasner, Bridget; Christensen, Kristen; Mjoen, Jaclyn R; Brehm, Charity L; Wilson, Janine C; Baker, Linda S; Davis, Julie M; Breeden, Lindsey R; Criddle, Jacquelyn R; Kerce, Amber R; Miller, Megan; Holland, Michael; Nordman, Jill E; Scheidecker, Terri R; Lynx, Tommy; Cline, Carol A; Withers, Janice J; Bocker, Tanya N; Antoine, Staci A; Keene, Robin K; Waugh, James J; Black, Benten S; Gilbert, Andrew; Blume, Sandra L; McCaslin, Phoenix A; Dwyer, Jennifer J; Axelson, Cindy M; Messenger, Andrea L; Sowl, Angela M; Williams, Piper M; Garnett, Christine M; Rowe, Sara; Trampel, Peggie S; Connelly, Linda A; Van Dyck, Anna L; Vickers, Demetrice G; Snow, David J; Perrine, Charlie; Reed, Seth M; Corcoran, Jillene S; Carreno, Alyssa J; Callaway, Joyce M; Mowry, Dyan L; McGhee, Robert Jr; Hitchcock, Holley A; Harvey, Theresa S; Greenwood, Janet E; Smith, Diane B; Holaday, Barbara; White, Julie M; Marnich, Sherry L; Bailey, Myria; Pudlas, Kellie V; Heather, James M; Hitchcock, Jeremy
PAYMENTS TO PERSON, FIRM, OR CORPORATION OVER $2,500 EXCLUDING WAGES AND SALARIES Stillman Bank $6,926,216.00; Blue Cross Blue Shield $3,221,969.33; Ogle County Educational Cooperative $2,183,235.50; INTERNAL REVENUE SERV $1,705,835.45; Sterling Federal Bank $1,497,506.86; Teacher Retirement System $1,161,026.71; Applied Communications Group $666,175.41; IL. Department of Revenue $518,572.53; IL Municipal Retirement Fund $376,789.25; Prairie State Insurance Coop $367,232.30; Gordon Food Service $311,006.01; MidAmerican Energy Services, LLC $283,077.91; BMO Harris Commercial Card $246,322.00; Constellation New Energy $195,414.10; Amplify $185,758.30; Polo CUSD 222 $182,469.49; Delta Dental $174,060.84; Santander Leasing LLC $162,778.00; Kansas State Bank $158,883.00; Bay Bridge Administrators $145,945.52; Conserv FS $133,863.62; City Of Oregon $126,778.05; Northern IL Health Plan $103,464.71; H2I Group $103,431.00; Hodges, Loizzi, Eisenhammer $102,469.81; Lee/Ogle/Whiteside Regional Office $97,483.00; Helm Service $89,444.05; Oregon Education Association $85,884.80; Alpha Controls and Services $81,775.75; Marco $76,481.98; Security Benefit 457 $75,620.41; Lexia Learning Systems LLC $70,864.00; MNJ Technologies Direct $70,689.98; Sterling Community Unit District #5 $69,663.00; NuToys Leisure Products $66,486.00; Wyatt Pavement Maintenance $56,240.00; Garaventa USA Inc $55,757.00; 34ED LLC $54,300.00; The Home Depot Pro Institutional $52,761.48; Letterman Activity Account $46,905.78; Prairie Farms Rockford $45,752.97; OHS Hawk Athletic Fund $45,714.63; Tyler Technologies $42,229.38; KD Landscape, Inc $38,194.00; Lakeshore Learning $37,941.55; Marco Technologies $37,820.40; Timeout Services LLC $36,900.00; SINGLEWIRE SOFTWARE $36,133.82; Oregon Education Support Personnel Assoc $33,408.58; Think Cerca $33,264.00; CREATIVE LEADERSHIP SOLUTIONS $31,900.00; WIPFLI LLP $29,985.00; Oregon Jr/Sr High School $28,465.56; Midwest Commercial Fitness
$27,958.20; Security Lock Shop $27,799.00; Athletico Management LLC $27,414.99; Great Lakes Coca-Cola Distribution,LLC $27,305.70; Phoenix Performance Parners LLC $26,000.00; Lakeside International Trucks $25,095.15; Correct Digital Displays $23,644.00; Sun Life Financial $23,001.49; Hudl $21,045.21; Turf Tank $20,625.00; Always Mechanical LLC $20,191.69; KMK Media Group $20,160.00; DreamSeats, LLC $19,560.00; IXL Learning $19,425.00; Midwest Disposal, LLC $19,310.00; Franklin Covey $18,721.92; Breedlove’s Sporting Goods $18,537.29; Airgas North Central $17,938.37; Riddell All American Sports Corp. $17,552.39; Gesin Inc $17,169.32; Discount School Supply $17,046.07; Prairie Fence $16,921.00; Fritz ElectRick $16,790.00; Staples Contract & Commercial LLC $16,501.40; Imprest Fund 220 $16,330.27; VSP Vision $15,947.73; School Specialty, LLC $15,279.02; Ed Liegl $15,000.00; Comcast Business $14,860.31; Dixon Glass Company $14,802.47; School Health Corporation $14,595.73; Verizon Wireless $14,383.90; IASB $14,341.00; Large Car Rebuilders $14,165.60; HMH Publishing - NWEA $13,644.00; Renaissance $12,975.00; Thumme Environmental Solutions, Inc $12,587.10; AllState $12,126.23; Comcast $12,011.75; Apptegy, Inc $11,602.50; 3D Carpet and Upholstery $11,522.86; Stratus Networks $11,166.34; College Board $11,000.00; Sharp Custom Painting $10,440.00; Frontline Education $10,438.26; Alarm Detection Systems $10,356.92; Interstate Power Systems $10,257.71; Tower Sound & Stage Rental $10,175.00; Workforce Wellness & Comp Sol, LLC $10,065.00; BSN Sports $10,020.54; VEX Robotics, Inc $9,996.00; Stokes Consulting Group LLC $9,937.50; Ehmen Industries Inc $9,936.71; ODIN International, Inc $9,352.96; BrainPOP LLC $8,595.00; Carreno Landscaping $8,236.25; Hartwig Mechanical, Inc $8,186.19; Crown Gym Mats, Inc $7,672.50; HUB-REMSEN $7,629.19; Buttita Brothers Automotive
$7,602.96; School Outlet $7,528.22; Horizon Prep LLC dba Horizon Education $7,500.00; KSB Medical Group $7,267.00; ZOKA Media Group $7,100.00; Physicians Immediate Care $7,027.00; AFLAC $6,999.25; Renaissance Learning, Inc $6,983.00; Freeport Industrial Roofing $6,890.00; Byron Autobody, Inc $6,863.62; PowerSchool Group LLC $6,802.50; Aurora University $6,579.00; GROVER TREE COMPANY $6,560.00; TRUGREEN Commercial $6,370.00; Greatmats.com Corporation $6,118.86; Stillman Valley High School $6,071.25; Worthington Direct $6,062.24; Fischers Inc $5,941.29; Educere, LLC $5,935.00; PANORAMA EDUCATION, INC $5,806.25; Meridian $5,768.00; Mind Research Institute $5,590.00; Quill Corporation $5,556.46; Legend Enterprises $5,550.00; Rock Valley Culligan $5,504.00; Follett School Solutions $5,438.30; Richard L Johnson, Inc $5,399.00; Midwest Applied Solutions, Inc $5,223.68; IASA $5,135.87; Annes Landscape Supply Dixon $5,096.65; Brothers Flooring $4,945.92; Food Equipment Liquidators $4,935.47; Sauk Valley Community College $4,857.50; Mike Haugse $4,800.00; Junior Learning Inc $4,799.52; BigSigns.com, Inc $4,741.00; Codi Conway $4,500.00; Money Vehicle $4,448.00; Edlio LLC $4,416.00; Embrace Education $4,341.81; TEMPLINK INNOVATIONS LLC $4,300.00; Institute for Education Innovation $4,250.00; Temple’s Sporting Goods $4,205.13; TEM Environmental Inc $4,175.00; Kami Notable, Inc $4,162.50; Project Lead The Way $4,150.00; NAPA Auto Parts $4,117.98; Ripple Effects Inc $4,050.00; Fyr Fyter $4,020.15; Oregon Snyder Pharmacy $4,015.98; Lebra Technologies Inc. $4,000.00; MELYX, INC. $3,954.00; EMS Linq Inc $3,820.50; Level Data, Inc $3,715.40; Houghton Mifflin Company $3,688.80; Klein, Thorpe and Jenkins, Ltd $3,679.20; R&R Auto & Diesel Repair $3,537.03; Alfano’s Pizza $3,500.00; Steve Benesch and Sons Quarry $3,500.00; Firms System $3,435.00; NICOR Gas $3,360.79; LRS, LLC $3,358.43;
Continued on next page
NOTICE
Folding Partition Services, Inc
$3,331.00; Flanagans Flatwork Concrete Construction $3,304.00; Oregon Park District $3,299.93; E-Rate Online, LLC $3,270.86; Midwest Transit Equip Co $3,206.26; Anderson Feed Company $3,154.23; Game-Day Apparel $3,139.00;
HPS, LLC $3,112.49; Hector’s Cocina $3,029.00; Raptor Technologies $3,000.00; DICK BLICK $2,977.82; Esther Nichol/CraftNich $2,972.00; Zoro $2,926.50; Frontier_Frontier00052 $2,768.10; Sysco Baraboo LLC $2,754.26; Menards - Sterling $2,683.71; Illinois
Mahoney, Thomas D $2,500.00; Dekalb Implement Company $2,489.54; Totally Promotional $2,460.00; Menards - Cherry Valley $2,370.54; L & K Electronics $2,310.20; Pest Control Consultants $2,310.00; Mid-West Truckers Assoc. $2,286.90; MathFactLab
$2,228.00; Phil’s Power Plus $2,224.00; WORKS International Inc
$2,220.00; Jostens $2,214.65; Dixon Paint Company $2,200.46; Teaching Strategies $2,160.00; Scholastic Inc. Education $2,158.20; Edmentum, Inc. $2,137.50; Big Northern Conference $2,100.00; Scholastic $2,084.39; Doublethink Inc. $2,000.00; Satchel Pulse
$2,000.00; LearnWell $1,987.06; Kane County ROE #31 $1,952.50; Snap! Mobile, Inc. $1,900.00; Flinn Scientific $1,899.40; Music for
All $1,888.00; Bushue Background Screening $1,887.00; Vertical School Partners, L.P. $1,875.00; SC STATE DISBURSEMENT UNIT
$1,827.00; Ebsco Infomational Services $1,795.00; Ideal Metal Fab Inc $1,770.21; Pro Com Systems $1,770.00; Henry Schein $1,757.56; Greenhouse Megastore $1,698.32; Mystery Science $1,695.00; Wes’ Tree Service $1,650.00; Knie Appliance and TV $1,644.96; Veterans Floors Inc $1,618.80; Connor Co $1,560.05; Reliable $1,503.60; Mr. Goodwater $1,503.30; Sway Medical, Inc $1,495.00; Supreme Cleaners $1,455.92; US TRACK & FIELD ASSOCIATION $1,453.18; Alton Irrigation $1,411.76; N.W. IL Auto Glass $1,406.92; Ideal Environmental Engineering $1,395.00; First
Principal Association $2,613.75; Cintas $2,587.61; R.E. Wolber and Sons Excavating $2,552.02; Bright Arrow Technologies $2,524.95;
PAYMENTS TO PERSON, FIRM, OR CORPORATION OF $1,000 TO $2,500 EXCLUDING WAGES AND SALARIES
to the Finish $1,394.66; School Nurse Supply $1,377.10; Phelps $1,361.30; Sterling Commercial Roofing Inc. $1,267.86; IHLS-OCLC $1,266.66; Aaron Rowe Electric $1,257.00; Sisson’s Tree Service, LLC $1,250.00; Sauk Valley Media $1,241.51; FP Mailing Solutions $1,215.27; Spring Valley Restaurant $1,200.00; National Student Clearinghouse $1,190.00; Mary Jo Griffin $1,148.75; IESA $1,145.00; DEMCO $1,106.36; Lincoln Electric $1,103.42; Class Creator $1,073.60; Literacy Resources $1,068.00; IAVAT $1,060.00; Security Voice Incorporated $1,047.25; Kincaide, Olivia L $1,041.67; WHITE PINES RANCH $1,020.00; Cashstar, Inc $1,015.99; Rochester 100 INC $1,010.84; REPORT ON CONTRACTS EXCEEDING $25,000 AWARDED DURING FY2025
The requisite Affidavit for Publication having been filed, notice is hereby giv enthat my Request to Change my name from: HEATHER DANA MISCH to the new nameof KALLAH ELZITA HELDAI, that this action has been commenced in the Circuit Courtof Ogle County by the Petitioner
WHEREFOR E, the Petition in this action, in the Circuit Court of Ogle County, held in the Courthouse in the City of Oregon, Ill inois, on December 17, 2025 at 9:00 a.m.
In conformity with sub-section (c) of Section 10-20.44 of the School Code [105 ILCS 5/10-20.44], the following information is required to be submitted in conjunction with publication of the Annual Statement of Affairs [105 ILCS 5/10-17].
1. Total number of all contracts awarded by the school district: 1
2. Total value of all contracts awarded: $155,700.00
3. Total number of contracts awarded to minority owned businesses, female owned businesses, businesses owned by persons with disabilities, and locally owned businesses:
*If there are no contracts of this nature, please enter “0” in box to the right.
4. Total value of contracts awarded to minority owned businesses, female owned businesses, businesses owned by person with disabilities, and locally owned businesses:
*If there are no contracts of this nature, please enter “0” in box to the right.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, OREGON, I LL INOIS ALLIED FIRST BANK, SB DB A SERVBANK PLAINTIFF, -vs-
DANIEL GARCIA; JOSEFA GARCIA A/K/A JOSEFA C. GARCIA; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD C LAIMANTS; UNKN OWN OCCUPAN TS DEFENDANTS
NO. 22 FC 4 NOTICE OF SHE RIFF'S SALE
Public Notice is hereby given that pur suant to a Judgment entered in the above entitled matter on March 15, 2024; Bri an R VanVickle, Sheriff, Ogle County Public Safety Complex, 202 South 1st Stree t, Oregon, IL 61061, will on December 19, 2025 at 10:00 AM, at Sheriff's Office, 202 South First Street, Oregon IL 61061, sell to the highest bidder for ten perce nt (10%) at the time of sale and the balance wit hin twenty-four (24) hours, the following described premises situated in Ogle County, Illinois.
Said sal e shall be subject to general taxes, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate and any prior liens or 1st Mortgages The subject property is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title or recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition.
Upon the sale being held and the purc haser tendering s aid bid in certified funds, a receipt of Sale will be issued and/or a Certificate of Sale as required, which will entitle the purchaser to a deed upon confirmation of said sale by the Court. Said property is legally des cribed as follows: LOT ONE (1) IN WINDO VER PARK IN THE VILL AGE OF HILLCREST, A CCORDING TO THE PLAT THE REOF RECORDED IN PLAT FILE C, PAGE 34, IN THE RECORDER'S OFFICE IN OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS; SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF FLAGG, COU NTY OF OGLE AND STATE OF ILLINOIS. Commonly known as 100 Windover Park Drive, Rochelle, IL 61068 Permanent Index No.: 24-12-154 -008 Improvements: Single Family Residential
The property will NOT be open for inspe ction prior to the sale and Plaintiff makes no repres entation as to the condition of the property. The judgment amount was $233,075.64. Prospective purchasers are admonished to check the court file and title records to verify this information. 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.
For Bid Amount contact: Sale Clerk LOGS Legal Group LLP 2801 Lakeside Drive, Suite 207 Bannockburn, IL 60015 ILNOTICES@logs.com (847) 291-1717 ALLIED FIRST BANK, SB DBA SERVBANK One of Plaintiff's Attorneys LOGS Legal Group LLP Attorney for Plaintiff 2801 Lakeside Drive, Suite 207 Bannockburn, IL 60015 (847) 291 -1717 ILNOTICES@logs.com Randa l S Berg (6277119) Michael N. Burke (6291435) Christopher A. Cieniawa (6187452) Laura J. Anderson (6224385) Thomas Belcz ak (6193705) Debra Miller (6205477) Amy Aronson (6206512) THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURP OSE. PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT IF YOUR PERSONAL LIABILITY FOR THIS DEBT HAS BE EN EXTINGUIS HE D BY A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY OR BY AN ORDER GRANTING IN REM RELIEF FROM STAY, THIS NOTICE IS PROVIDED SOLELY TO FORECLOSE THE MORTGAGE REMAINING ON YOUR PROPERTY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT THE DISCHARGED PERSO NAL OBLIGA TION. 8190-959488 Forreston Journal Nov. 14, 21, 28, 2025 959488
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT F OR THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY - OREGON, I LLINOIS Nationstar Mortgage L LC PLAINTIFF Vs. Dian e Tetrault; Jani ce Adams ; Foundatio n Finance Compan y, L LC; Unknown Heirs an d Legatees of Marcia J. Bradl ee; Unknown Owners and Nonrecord Claim ants; Kipp Meyers , as Spe cial Representative for Marcia J. Bradlee ( deceased) DEFE NDANTS No. 2025FC43 NOTICE BY PUBL ICATION NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU: Janice Adams Unknown Heirs and Legatees of Marcia J. Bradlee Unknown Owners and Nonrecord Claimants 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, to-wit: COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 2 South Hannah Avenue Mount Morris, IL 61054 and which said Mortgage was made by: Marcia J. Bradlee the Mortgagor(s), to Mortgage El ectronic Registr ation Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., as Mortgagee, and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Ogle County, Illinois, as Document No. 0404354; and for other relief; that summons was duly issued out of said Court against you as provi ded by law and th at the said suit is now pe nding. 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 December 22, 2025, A DEFAU LT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRAY ER OF SAI D COMP LAIN T. 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. 14-25-05825
NOTE: This law firm is a debt collector. I3276670 Forreston Journal Nov. 21, 28, December. 51 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE REQUEST OF NAME CHANGE: HEATHER DANA MISCH, Petitioner, Case No. 2025 MR 43 PUBL ICATION NOTICE
The requisite Affidavit for Publication having been filed, notice is hereby giv enthat my Request to Change my name from: HEATHER DANA MISCH to the new nameof KALLAH ELZITA HELDAI, that this action has been commenced in the Circuit Courtof Ogle County by the Petitioner
WHEREFOR E, the Petition in this action, in the Circuit Court of Ogle County, held in the Courthouse in the City of Oregon, Ill inois, on December 17, 2025 at 9:00 a.m.
Dates this 13th day of November, 2025.
Kimbe rl y A. Stahl/AS CIRCUIT CLERK SEAL
Prepared by: TESS, ARNQUIST & WILT, LLC P.O. Box 68 Rochelle, IL 61068 (815) 562-8754 lawyers@tesscrull law.com
Dates this 13th day of November, 2025.
Kimbe rl y A. Stahl/AS CIRCUIT CLERK SEAL
Prepared by: TESS, ARNQUIST & WILT, LLC
P.O. Box 68 Rochelle, IL 61068 (815) 562-8754 lawyers@tesscrull law.com
Nov. 28, Dec. 5, 12, 2025 PUBL ICATION
By: James Adam Stephanie Ad Independ
jpeterslaw@yaho
Nov. 28, Dec. 5, 12, 2025
STATE OF IL LINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE In re the E state of: Matthew J. Adams, Deceased 2025 PR 000054 CL AIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of Matthew J. Adams. Letters of Office were issued on 9/17/2025, to James D Adams and Stepha nie L Adams, as Representatives, whose addess is 1384 Cunat Court, Unit 2B, Lake in the Hills, IL 60156. Claims against the estate may be filed within six (6) months from the date of first publication, or wit hin three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing ordelivery is required by Section 5/18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 197 5, 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 Circuit Clerk, Ogle County JudicialCenter, 106 South 5th Street, Or egon, IL 61061 or with
ever date is later
e requisite Affivit for Publicahaving been , notice is reby giv enthat Request to Change my name : HEATHER NA MISCH to new nameof KALLAH ELZITA HELDAI, that this on has been mmenced in the Circuit Courtof le County by the tioner
est . 1851 est. 1851
EREFOR E, the tion in this acin the Circuit Court of Ogle County, held in the Courthouse in the of Oregon, Ill inois, on December 2025 at 9:00
tes this 13th day November, 2025.
Kimbe rl y A. Stahl/AS CIRCUIT CLERK SEAL epared by: SS, ARNQUIST WILT, LLC Box 68 chelle, IL 61068 815) 562-8754 wyers@tesscrull w.com
Nov. 28, Dec. 5, 12, 2025
STATE OF IL LINOIS THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE
the E state of:
tthew J. ams, eceased 2025 PR 000054
AIM NOTICE otice is given the death of
hew J. Adams. tters of Office re issued on 9/17/2025, to es D Adams
Stepha nie L ams, as Repreatives, whose ddess is 1384 CuCourt, Unit 2B, ke in the Hills, IL 60156. Claims against the tate may be within six (6) ths from the of first publion, or wit hin e (3) months the date of iling or delivery
Notice to crediif mailing orlivery is required Section 5/18-3 he Illinois ProAct, 197 5, as amended, whichdate is later claim not filed the requisite stated above shall be barred. Claims against the tate may be filed he Office of the Circuit Clerk, Ogle County Judicialnter, 106 South Street, Or egon, 61061 or with
Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above shall be barred. Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Circuit Clerk, Ogle County JudicialCenter, 106 South 5th Street, Or egon, IL 61061 or with the esta te legal representative, or both
Copies of a claim filed wit h the clerk must be mai led or delivered to the representative and to the attorney wi thin 10 days after i t has been filed.
By: James D Adams & Stephanie L. Adams Independent Executors
Jeffrey A. Peters Attorney for Estate
Jeffrey A. Peters Attorney at Law
ARDC No 6183878
25 S. Salem Avenue Arlington Heights, IL 60005 847-409-4835 jpeterslaw@yahoo. com
Nov 21, 28, Dec. 5, 2025 PUBL ICATION NOTICE
Recycle Your Stuff for Cash in the Classifieds
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, OREGON, I LL INOIS
ALLIED FIRST BANK, SB DB A SERVBANK PLAINTIFF, -vs-
DANIEL GARCIA; JOSEFA GARCIA A/ K/ A JOSEFA C. GARCIA; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD C LAIMANTS; UNKN OWN OCCUPAN TS DEFENDANTS
NO. 22 FC 4 NOTICE OF SHE RIFF'S SALE
Public Notice is hereby given that pur suant to a Judgment entered in the above entitled matter on March 15, 2024; Bri an R VanVickle, Sheriff, Ogle County Public Safety Complex, 202 South 1st Stree t, Oregon, IL 61061, will on December 19, 2025 at 10:00 AM, at Sheriff's Office, 202 South First Street, Oregon IL 61061, sell to the highest bidder for ten perce nt (10%) at the time of sale and the balance wit hin twenty-four (24) hours, the following described premises situated in Ogle County, Illinois.
Said sal e shall be subject to general taxes, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate and any prior liens or 1st Mortgages The subject property is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title or recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition.
Upon the sale being held and the purc haser tendering s aid bid in certified funds, a receipt of Sale will be issued and/or a Certificate of Sale as required, which will entitle the purchaser to a deed upon confirmation of said sale by the Court. Commonly known as 100 Windover Park Drive, Rochelle , IL 61068 Permanent Index No.: 24-12-154-008 Improvements: Single Family Residential
The property will NOT be open for inspe ction prior to the sale and Plaint iff makes no repres entation as to the condition of the property.
The judgment amount was $233,075.64. Prospective purchasers are admonished to check the court file and title records to verify this information. 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.
For Bid Amount contact: Sale Clerk LOGS Legal Group LLP 2801 Lakeside Drive, Suite 207 Bannockburn, IL 60015 ILNOTICES@logs.com (847) 291-1717 ALLIED FIRST BANK, SB DBA SERVBANK One of Plaintiff's Attorneys LOGS Legal Group LLP Attorney for Plaintiff 2801 Lakeside Drive, Suite 207 Bannockburn, IL 60015 (847) 291-1717 ILNOTICES@logs.com Randa l S Berg (6277119) Michael N. Burke (6291435) Christopher A. Cieniawa (6187452) Laura J. Anderson (6224385) Thomas Belcz ak (6193705) Debra Miller (6205477) Amy Aronson (6206512) THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURP OSE. PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT IF YOUR PERSONAL LIABILITY FOR THIS DEBT HAS BE EN EXTINGUIS HE D BY A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY OR BY AN ORDER GRANTING IN REM RELIEF FROM STAY, THIS NOTICE IS PROVIDED SOLELY TO FORECLOSE THE MORTGAGE REMAINING ON YOUR PROPERTY AND IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT THE DISCHARGED PERSO NAL OBLIGA TION. 8190-959488 Forreston
Symmetry in this year’s state football finals
There is nearly perfect public/private symmetry in IHSA state football championships. In Lena-Winslow, Wilmington, Byron, Rochester and East St. Louis, we have the five top public programs in Illinois.
Then there are the Chicago Catholic League juggernauts, with likely titles in 4A, 5A, 7A and 8A. At least it won’t be seven championships like last year.
Lena-Winslow, Wilmington and Byron should ensure that won’t happen, as all are huge favorites at ISU’s Hancock Stadium on Friday. East St. Louis, more of a national power than any other team in Illinois, should win 6A.
In all there are 115 state title appearances by this year’s entrants. It’s definitely a Who’s Who of Illinois grid royalty.
It’s too bad the IHSA can’t set up a mythical state championship a week after the finals, with East St. Louis and Class 8A Chicago Mt. Carmel going after each other. Reputedly, they are head and shoulders above everyone else in the state and would make for mustsee viewing.
With so many potential blowouts on tap, the IHSA finals won’t be that tantalizing. Usually, the most excitement occurs in the rounds leading up to Thanksgiving weekend.
Brown County, Le-Win’s opponent in 1A, upset Camp Point Central and Hardin Calhoun to reach the finals. In the regular season, it lost to them.
Brown County has never been downstate in football. At this point, it probably doesn’t care if it wins or loses a state title. Beating conference rivals in such close calls to reach the big stage carries more emotional cachet than winning state.
Sometimes, getting there is more
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS ROUNDUP
By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com
Monday, Nov. 17
Girls basketball
Pecatonica 57, Polo 29: Polo’s Cam Jones had 11 points, five steals, three rebounds, two assists and a block to open the season. Jones was 8 of 9 at the line. Elsa Monaco added six points and two assists for the Marcos.
Korah Noud scored 30 points for the Indians.
important than what you do once you get there.
That’s not the case for Le-Win, which might toss the runner-up trophy in the Illinois River on the way home should Brown County beat it. It’s win or bust for them in a sixth straight title game appearance.
I had the pleasure of being in Stockton for the Le-Win semifinal and couldn’t think of anywhere else in the world I would rather have been on that Saturday afternoon. What a scene with fans standing 15 to 20 deep completely around the football field.
On the field was a display of 1A football at its absolute best. Stockton may have lost, but they were state-championship caliber.
After seeing Byron and IC Catholic the previous week and then Stockton and Le-Win, it was like watching the real state championships. Plus, they were shorter drives than going to Normal.
In a testament to Byron’s grid prowess, the Tigers ran all over a very good team in Richmond-Burton. If they can put 44 points on such a worthy foe, one can only imagine the scoring carnage that may be inflicted on Tolono Unity. Two years ago, Byron put up 69 points in the championship game.
Last week, I erroneously listed R-B as having a 2-0 playoff advantage over Byron. It should have been the other way and now we can up it to 3-0 in Byron’s favor.
According to the MaxPreps website, Byron is ranked as the 12th-best team in the entire state. It’s hard to fathom a small rural school reaching such lofty status ahead of so many Chicago-area 7A and 8A powers.
In its 2A semifinal game against El Paso-Gridley, Wilmington had a 41-0 lead before the first half ended. Look for more steamrolling to continue as it pursues a third state title in five years.
After taking on 4A Rochelle this year, Le-Win has scheduled Wilmington for next year in Week 2.
The reason I know Le-Win and Wilmington are playing is because of my source to the northwest, Kyle Kampmier. As a means for promoting high school sports, Kyle offers a pair of groups on Facebook in NUIC Football and NUIC All-Access.
Both are quite accurate and interesting to follow. Along with listening to Don Werntz broadcast games on the radio, they are my source for info in the northwest part of the state. Those two gentlemen are devoted to the cause and have their finger on the pulse of what is going on.
Kyle’s website has a rating system that predicts game scores better than anything I’ve seen. His rankings also are better than what the AP provides.
He supports every school in the league, as evidenced by his covering of the eight-man championship between Amboy and Polo, with the Clippers pulling off the three-peat.
Several years later, there continues to be disparaging remarks on the quality of play of eight-man and why certain schools are playing it instead of 11-man, such as Amboy.
Let’s start with quality of play. Of course, these teams aren’t going to be at
the level of a Le-Win or Stockton. But the game itself is the same, with the only difference being width of the field.
There will be more hitting in 11-man because there are six more players on the field. Hence, the more people, the potential for more physical contact.
Every time I’ve gone to Polo for a game, the Marcos bring it physically.
As far as larger schools playing eightman, it is not the number of the players standing on the sideline, but the actual number of varsity players. A team may dress freshmen and sophomores for state games and that can look deceiving.
It is very important to understand that the vast majority of freshmen and sophomores are not physically mature enough to play against juniors and seniors. That is the main reason schools have opted to leave 11-man for eightman. Young kids were getting pounded and that’s a sure fire way to discourage participation.
Schools don’t leave 11-man because they want an easier path to a state trophy. The No. 1 reason is not enough bodies to fill out a roster.
Yes, Amboy’s football enrollment of 303 (also include LaMoille and Ohio) is larger than anyone in the 11-man NUIC other than EPC and Du-Pec. By comparison, Milledgeville has an enrollment of 95 and beat Amboy in the regular season.
I’m assuming Amboy/LaMoille/Ohio continues to stay in eight-man because of lack of participation. I know Ohio can’t be sending too many players there, as it has only 21 students total in the high school.
• Andy Colbert is a sports writer for Shaw Local covering high school sports in Ogle County.
Tuesday, Nov. 18
Boys bowling
Oregon 3,417, Erie-Prophetstown 2,502 : The Oregon bowling program recorded its 400th dual victory with a boys team win at Town & Country Lanes in Mt. Morris. Coach Alan Nordman has been a part of all 400 wins, which include victories from the boys and girls. The program was started in 2003. The boys have gone 220-94, and the girls have gone 180102. Caleb Ehrler led the Hawks with a 625, and Andrew Stahl rolled a 616.
Jaqin Glines led E-P with a 527.
Girls basketball
Forreston 45, South Beloit 33: The Cardinals used a 21-point second quarter to pull away for the win. Hailee Vogt scored a game-high 14 points for Forreston to open the season.
Thursday, Nov. 20
Girls basketball
Polo 59, Pearl City 38: Cam Jones led Polo with 23 points, Carlee Grobe scored 14, and Leah Tobin added 13 in the win. The Marcos came back to win after trail-
ing 14-10 in the first quarter. Oregon 36, Amboy 29: At the Oregon tournament, the Hawks had balanced scoring in the win as five players had at least five points. Aniyah Sarver led Oregon with eight points. Bella Yanos scored nine points for Amboy, and Sydney Whelchel had eight.
Orangeville 48, Forreston 20: Hailee Vogt led Forreston with six points in the loss. The Cardinals trailed 20-5 after the first quarter.
See ROUNDUP on page 18
Andy Colbert VIEWS
Explosive’ Caden Considine, Byron best Richmond-Burton
Tigers all-stater rushes for 287 yards, 5 TDs
By JOE AGUILAR jaguilar@shawmedia.com
Byron got more than a momentum-changing turnover early against host Richmond-Burton.
Almost immediately afterward, Tigers all-stater Caden Considine got his confidence, or at least he rediscovered his “explosive-play ability,” as he called it. That might have shaken the confidence of the Rockets’ stingy defense, which had held seven of its 12 opponents going into Saturday’s Class 3A state semifinal to single-digit points.
A confident Considine crushed the home team. Considine rushed for 287 yards and five touchdowns on 24 carries as second-seeded Byron rallied from an early deficit to beat No. 1 Richmond-Burton 44-10 in Richmond.
The win earned Byron (13-0) a berth in the state championship game against Tolono Unity (12-1). The teams will play at 4 p.m. Friday at Illinois State University’s Hancock Stadium in Normal.
R-B, which was seeking its first appearance at state since it won the Class 4A title with a perfect record in 2019, finished 12-1.
“Like I told the boys, today doesn’t define our season,” Rockets coach Mike Noll said.
R-B’s early turnover against Byron didn’t define its performance, but Considine said it “switched the momentum of this game.” The Rockets had struck first, with all-stater Hunter Carley (23 carries, 87 yards) capping a game-opening, 15-play, 73-yard drive with a 2-yard touchdown run with 3:25 left in the first quarter.
Then after Byron went three-and-out on its first possession, R-B’s Luke Johnson, who’s been wearing a club on his left arm during the playoffs, fumbled
• ROUNDUP
Continued from page 17
Boys bowling
Oregon 3,464, Sterling 2,860: Oregon’s RJ Keene bowled a whopping 795 (247290-258) to set the school’s three-game series record for a dual meet. He
sidine said he was able to get outside against R-B. When he did, the 6-foot, 210-pound senior either outraced defenders, knocked them over, stiffarmed them or shook off attempted tackles.
Considine has offers from Iowa (preferred walk-on), Western Illinois and North Dakota State.
“It’s been a long season and hadn’t really found somebody who runs like he does,” Rockets senior middle linebacker Trevor Szumanski said. “He runs hard, and he’s a good athlete. It stinks that we had to go out like that, but he’s a good player. [Byron) plays hard, and they deserved the win, so good luck to them at state.”
Byron did not throw a pass, but Considine’s effort led a ground attack that gained 379 yards against a Rockets defense that hadn’t allowed more than 20 points in a game all season.
the ball on a sweep after a 5-yard gain, and Byron recovered at the R-B 37.
Byron’s hard-hitting junior defensive back JJ Edmonson forced the fumble.
“We thought they were going to do a little jet pass with [Johnson], but we didn’t know how he was going to throw that ball with a club on his hand,” Considine said. “We weren’t trying to blow him up because of the club on his hand, but I think that’s a little bit of the reason why he fumbled that ball.”
Considine carried for 9 yards, then 3 and then 25, scoring on the third carry, 35 seconds into the second quarter to even the score.
The previous week, IC Catholic had held Considine to 70 yards. Dawson Criddle and Kole Aken provided the ground production for Byron with IC Catholic committed to stopping Considine, as each had more than 100 yards rushing.
knocked down 11 straight strikes in his 290 middle game. Caleb Ehrler was second for Oregon with a 596. Bryce Kooy led Sterling with a 620.
Friday, Nov. 21
Girls basketball
Forreston 45, Morrison 26: Hailee Vogt scored 16 points for the Cardinals in the
“Those first couple of runs felt good, especially after last week,” Considine said. “IC Catholic did a great job containing me, but it was good to get my explosive-play ability back this week.”
After Trey Maziarz kicked a 20-yard field goal to give R-B the lead back at 10-7 with 5:32 left before halftime, Byron needed only one play to answer. Considine busted off an 81-yard TD run, breaking tackles and outrunning Rockets to the end zone, and the Tigers had the lead for good.
Considine’s 19-yard TD run capped a five-play, 44-yard drive after the Tigers stuffed Carley on fourth-and-1, and Byron went into halftime up 21-10.
Considine scored his fourth and fifth TDs in the third quarter, from 13 and 2 yards, respectively. Aken added a fourth-quarter TD from 1 yard out.
“We couldn’t tackle [Considine],” Noll said.
Unlike against IC Catholic, Con -
win. Alice Kobler (10 points) was also in double figures for Forreston.
Remzije Dzeladini had eight points for Morrison.
Forreston pulled away with a 19-2 advantage in the second quarter.
Oregon 36, Aurora Christian 25: Aniyah Sarver and Sarah Eckardt each scored 10 points in the Hawks’ win.
R-B totaled 204 yards of offense, including 135 on the ground. Quarterback Ray Hannemann completed his first five passes and finished 6 of 12 for 69 yards.
“First drive [of the game] was good,” Noll said. “But we just made too many mistakes, penalties (six for 24 yards). We just couldn’t maintain anything consistently. We knew we had to be perfect today, and we weren’t close. [Byron] is very good.”
Noll had no regrets, insisting the Rockets got the most out of their players this season and that anyone would have taken 12 wins at the beginning of the season.
“We’re in the semifinals, and the last two years I was on varsity we lost in the first round, so it’s a lot different this year,” said R-B senior outside linebacker/tight end Luke Robinson, who had two catches for 36 yards. “It’s just a testament to my class, the juniors, the sophomores and even the freshmen who came up for the playoffs. Just like a band of brothers, we’re a family, all the way through.”
Saturday, Nov. 22
Girls basketball
Newman 63, Oregon 34: In the thirdplace game at the Oregon tournament, Gisselle Martin hit five 3-pointers and scored 27 points as the Comets improved to 3-1.
Addison Rufer led Oregon with 10 points and Aniyah Sarver scored nine.
Gregory Shaver
Byron’s Caden Considine stiff-arms Richmond-Burton’s Cooper Nagel as he runs with the ball during a Class 3A semifinal Nov. 22 at Richmond-Burton High School in Richmond.
Amboy tops Polo for 3rd straight I8FA title
Clippers score 30 straight points to become first 3-time I8FA champion
By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com
Adversity hit two-time defending Illinois 8-Man Football Association champion Amboy/LaMoille/Ohio early in Friday’s championship game in Monmouth.
Down two scores to Polo after the first quarter, the Clippers were unfazed. Amboy scored 30 straight points en route to a 30-20 win at Monmouth College’s April Zorn Memorial Stadium.
The defense dug in, and Jose Lopez ran for 292 yards and three touchdowns as Amboy (12-1) became the first threetime state champion in the I8FA.
“It feel great, but I’ve got to give thanks to my O-line,” Lopez said. “They opened up the holes – it was open, and I just had to make the cuts.”
In a battle of two teams with a pair of I8FA state titles, Amboy remains the league’s team to beat after an unprecedented three-peat.
“We have a great coach that pushes us through everything, and that’s all you really need,” Lopez said. “You need a strong head coach who can keep pushing, who has the right game plan. We have a strong line, and that’s what keeps us going.”
Last year’s Amboy team was led heavily by its seniors. This year, a number of new players needed to step up to get it done again.
“They were always there for us,” Lopez said of last year’s seniors. “They did a really good job at passing the torch, and we knew that we had big shoes to fill. Every single one of us did just that.”
Polo’s Mercer Mumford had a huge first quarter to give the Marcos the early advantage. He ran for two touchdowns as Polo (11-2) forged a 14-0 lead.
Lopez got rolling in the second quarter with a 29-yard TD, and Cody Winn caught a 9-yard score from Tanner Welch just 10 seconds before halftime to help tie the game and give the Clippers momentum.
Winn said that play shifted the game in Amboy’s favor. It was Welch’s only
the work. Us coaches, we just tell them what to do, obviously in the weight room and the running, and they’re the ones that go through and they do it. And they push themselves, and they don’t question us in anything.
“They deserve all the credit in the world because this is their accomplishment for their hard work since last March.”
Amboy junior Evan Flanagan said it took grit.
“The ‘A’ on our helmets, they mean a lot to us,” he said. “We had to be more physical than the other team.”
Amboy senior Rylan McNinch said this year’s junior class was a big factor in the repeat. McNinch tipped a pass that he intercepted in the win.
“The juniors were a big help,” he said. “The majority of our offense and defense are juniors or sophomores, so they’ll definitely be back next year.”
Despite the loss, Polo battled in its first state appearance since winning it all in 2021.
Mumford was injured in the third quarter and was unable to return. He finished with 162 yards and two scores. Stephenson threw for 131 yards and a touchdown on his final pass. Polo’s twopoint conversion failed, and Amboy recovered the ensuing onside kick before icing the game.
“They started running it down our throats, really, and we didn’t give up,” Stephenson said. “We kept playing. You can’t be mad about that, we just kept going.”
completion of the game in five passes.
“I think it was a big momentum shift, and it got us ready to roll,” he said. “It took us into halftime with a good mentality.”
Polo was putting together a strong drive to start the second half, but turned it over on downs at the 6. Amboy held Polo until Jordan Reed caught a 14-yard TD from JT Stephenson with 1:12 to play.
Amboy coach Scott Payne said it showed a lot for his team to respond after getting down 14-0. Polo also took advantage of a high snap on an Amboy punt for good field position.
“I told the kids before the game adversity is going to hit throughout this game. It depends on if you flinch or not,” he said. “They bounced back. We got down 14-nothing, didn’t play very well in the first quarter, and they came back
in that second quarter and tied it up.
“It just says a lot about these kids and how they just never give up and they just keep fighting.”
One of the biggest catalysts for Amboy this postseason has been Lopez, and he came through again in the biggest game of the season.
“He played great against Milledgeville, and this week I think he played even better,” Payne said. “Nobody really knew about him throughout the season, and then all of a sudden in the playoffs, he started ripping off some really good games.
“Jose played great today, and our offensive line after that first quarter really stepped up and started opening up the holes for him.”
Payne is proud of the three-peat, but directs all the credit to his players.
“The kids are the ones that put in all
Stephenson said Amboy made some changes on defense after the hot start.
“They’re tough players,” he said. “We shouldn’t be disappointed in ourselves. We made it all the way.”
Polo coach Ted Alston said Amboy’s size and physicality eventually took control of the line of scrimmage in the second quarter.
“Our kids played their hearts out against a really good team,” he said. “They were just a little bit too much for us up front.”
The Marcos were still a play or two away from potentially a different outcome.
“We needed to make a couples here or there that would have really changed things,” Alston said. “It’s a great experience for the kids. I know it’s disappointing for them right now, but I’m glad they got to experience it.”
Scott Anderson
Amboy/LaMoille/Ohio’s Jose Lopez is brought down by Polo’s Eli Perez during the 8-man I8FA championship game Nov. 21 at April Zorn Memorial Stadium in Monmouth.
SPORTS
TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY
1930: Ernie Nevers scores a record 40 points in an NFL game. 2004: Michael Jordan makes his third retirement announcement.
Polo quarterback JT Stephenson looks to run the ball as Amboy/ LaMoille/Ohio’s Evan Flanagan runs toward him during the 8-man I8FA state championship game Nov. 21 at April Zorn Memorial Stadium in Monmouth.
NOWHERE TO RUN
Polo unable to claim state title in I8FA championship game / 19
Photo by Scott Anderson