Polo_Tri-County_Press-12-31-2021

POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS VOLUME 163 NO. 42 • SERVING THE POLO AREA SINCE 1857

Friday, December 31, 2021 • $1.00

BUSINESS NEWS

Helping Hand

An Oregon salon helps out a homeless shelter. / 5

SPORTS

UPGRADE COMING

Coaching Award

Polo’s Ted Alston is named SVM’s Football Coach of the Year. / 9

Tree Recycling Area FFA chapters

are offering to pick up live Christmas trees. / 6

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

The railroad crossing on Union Road, east of Polo, is slated to be upgraded next year. The crossing currently has lights, but no stop arms.

Story on page 3.

One section • 16 pages

INDEX Betty’s Column ........ 4 Classifieds ......... 12-15 Colbert Column ....... 8

Library News ............ 2 Oregon Police......... 10 Property Transfers.. 11

DEATHS Published every Friday

by Ogle County Newspapers, a division of Shaw Media

No notices submitted.

Sheriff Activity....... 10 Sports........................ 7

POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS POLO LIBRARY Special Hours POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS The library will be closed on Saturday, Jan. 1 to TRI-COUNTY PRESS observe New Year’s Day. We wish all our patrons

Tri-County Press / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

TRI-COUNTY BEAT

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oglecountynews.com ShawLocal.com OFFICE 113-115 Peoria Ave. Dixon, IL 61021 SUBSCRIPTIONS $39 in Ogle County, and $52 outside Ogle County. Singlecopy price is $1 To subscribe, make a payment or discuss your delivery, call 1-866-979-1053 Monday-Friday or send an e-mail to subscriptions@ oglecountynews.com.

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CLASSIFIED SALES 815-220-6942 apicco@shawmedia.com OBITUARIES 815-632-2534 phartman@shawmedia.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 General Manager Earleen Hinton 815-632-2591 ehinton@shawmedia.com News Alexa Zoellner 815-632-2590 azoellner@shawmedia.com Advertising Sales Patty Bridgeman 815-632-2555 pbridgeman@ 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

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a safe and happy holiday! The library will also be closed on Monday, Jan. 17 to observe Martin Luther King Jr Day. Special Procedures Masks are required in the library for everyone over the age of two. Polo Library’s programs and services are for everyone. If you require an access service to fully participate or have any questions about accessibility, please contact Ellen Finfrock at 815-946-2713.

Community Services A representative from Rock River Center will be at the library from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 26.

Library Services Did you know we offer home delivery? Just call to request an item and make arrangements for delivery. Another call to the library is all that is necessary to arrange pick up. Items of all types are available, including magazines, movies, large print books and audiobooks.

Adult Programs Book groups meet Friday, Jan. 14 and Monday, Jan. 24 at 1:30 p.m. Book 2 Movie discussion group meets on Tuesday, Jan. 18 at 5 p.m. These groups are open to anyone who is interested, no registration required. Stop in to pick up a copy

and join us!

Coffee with a Cop Wednesday, Jan. 12 at 10:30 a.m. Drop in and enjoy coffee and conversation with Polo’s Chief of Police, Troy Randall.

Genealogy Assistance Are you interested in researching your ancestors but don’t know where to start? Do you have a start and need help with your research? Stop by the first Wednesday 5-7 p.m. or the third Saturday 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and let Donna help with your project. Polo Library is now a FamilySearch Affiliate Library which allows access to more digital records when you’re researching at the library.

Jigsaw Puzzle Swap Are you bored with the same old puzzles you have at home? Bring your gently used puzzles to the library and leave with new-to-you puzzles.

Each puzzle to swap must: be primarily at least

500 pieces, be complete, no missing pieces; be placed in a zip-lock bag within its container; include an image of the completed puzzle - picture on box, poster or photo. Don’t have a puzzle to swap? Come pick one out and swap it back when you’ve finished with it. Jigsaw Puzzle Swap is located in the display cabinet in the Congress Street foyer.

Virtual Travelogue John Lynn’s America Coast to Coast, Part 1 Jan. 12, 6 p.m. This is a live on Zoom program. Register at the Circulation Desk, email library@pololibrary. org or call 815-946-2713.

Yoga at the Library Monday, Jan. 10 at 6 p.m. Taught by Clementine Studio. Register at the Circulation Desk or call 815-946-2713.

Children’s Programs Winter Reading Land Kick-Off Party, Saturday, Jan. 8 10:30 a.m. Help Ms Melanie kick off Winter Reading Land with a Board Game Party. This reading program is for Kindergarten through 5th graders and will run from Jan. 8-Feb. 26. Register for the kick-off party and reading program by emailing melaniew@pololibrary.org or call 815-946-2713.

Virtual Storytime on Saturday, Jan.15 at 10:30 a.m. on Facebook and YouTube.

In person Storytime on Saturdays, Jan. 22 and 29 at 10:30 a.m.

PINE CREEK NEWS

BY KAREN MERLAK Christmas Day has come with the celebration of the birth of the King. This is the moment we have been anticipating for the past four weeks of the Advent season. For the greatest gift of love, we are forever grateful to our Heavenly Father.

This morning for church, we are starting a three-week pause from in-person church. Pastor Suzanne Hall Stout led the service on Facebook Live. Our pianist, Bev Kearns, provided the music for the morning. We will be online only for the next two Sunday mornings.

On Friday evening, our church hosted a Christmas Eve service in our building, in person and online. Greeters for the evening were Don and Vicki Hay. James and Nancy Hopkins lit the Christ candle for the service.

Pastor Suzanne led the service, which included singing many of our favorite hymns. James Hopkins and Chuck Kearns also helped with readings during the service. James also provided the luminaries outside of the church. The service concluded with a candlelight singing of “Silent Night.”

Stephanie and João had plans to travel to Minnesota to spend a few days with João’s family.

Unfortunately, they were not able to go due to illness. The couple stayed home with their dog, Pepper. Even miles apart, we are able to keep in

touch, sharing the excitement of the holidays.

This Christmas looks a bit different for me this year. I am celebrating with my son Matt in Hawaii.

I arrived last week and will return home in a couple of days.

For the week, he has given me a tour of the area where he has been stationed for the past six years.

He was able to take me to his shop where he works, a tour around the base and neighboring cities, and to the beach to see the ocean. This area is surrounded by mountains, palm trees, and beautiful flowers.

Even more than the beautiful scenery, I am grateful for the long talks, time cooking dinners, and the many memories made over this week together. I have been getting acquainted with his blind cat, Alice.

For Christmas Day, we exchanged gifts and made dinner together, including a couple of our family favorites. In the evening, we went to the movies. Matt and I share a great love for stories, in books and in movies.

On Friday afternoon, Matt and I called Clint to wish him a Merry Christmas since it was Christmas Day where he is. Clint is back to work and feeling much better. Our family is looking forward to the next big moves in 2022 for Matt and Stephanie.

Mostly, our time together has included lots of

relaxing rest. This rest has given me time to reflect on my life at home. This year has been full of great accomplishments. However, spending time working toward my goals has taken me away from other things.

It is easy to lose our focus with so many other things of this world that take our attention. We have so many distractions around us. This morning, Pastor Suzanne spoke about the importance of making room for Jesus, now that He is here with us.

Being away from home has allowed me to think about my priorities and the amount of room they are taking up in my life.

Each time we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we have a reminder to invite Him into our lives.

When we invite Him first, everything else falls into place. During this time of relaxation and rest, I am rearranging my priorities again so that He is first. I am grateful for this time of refreshment and reconnection.

I hope to see you online with us next Sunday as we gather on Facebook Live to worship. Please leave a comment when you join. Soon, we will be together again. For now, our family bond is stretched but not broken.

(Karen Merlak lives in Polo and is a member of the Pine Creek Christian Church)

COUNTY NEWS

A railroad crossing east of Polo will be getting a major facelift next year.

The Illinois Commerce Commission has approved a stipulated agreement to improve safety at the North Union Road railroad crossing.

Under the agreement, BNSF Railway Company will install new automatic flashing light signals, gates with bells which are controlled by constant warning time circuitry and equipped with an event recorder and a remote monitoring system.

The total estimated cost of materials for the crossing upgrades is $223,364.

The ICC staff recommends that the Grade Crossing Protection Fund be used to pay 95% of the total cost, not to exceed $212,193.

All work is to be completed within 12 months of the order date.

“These upgrades are needed and will greatly improve safety at this location. This is good news for the community and anyone who utilizes the crossing. The allocation of Grade Crossing Protection Funds enables important rail safety projects such as this to advance,” ICC Commissioner Michael Carrigan said.

In 1955, the state passed legislation creating the GCPF. Since then, Illinois has strengthened its commitment to public highway-rail safety by increasing funding toward projects such as the closure and consolidation of existing public crossings, installation of new warning systems, highway approach improvements, upgrades to existing warning devices and interconnection to nearby traffic signals, construction/reconstruction of grade separation structures and the construction of pedestrian grade separations.

The commission administers the GCPF, which is funded by motor fuel tax money designated for rail safety improvements.

The General Assembly appropriates $42 million annually for the GCPF.

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

The railroad crossing on Union Road, east of Polo, is slated to be upgraded next year. The crossing currently has lights, but no stop arms.

REGIONAL NEWS

Road rage shooting spurs civil suit; man awarded $850,000

BY KATHLEEN A. SCHULTZ kschultz@shawmedia.com

DIXON – Two men charged with attempted murder in an apparent road rage case are being sued by the Dixon man who said they shot at his vehicle, hitting it four times.

Kennedy L. Jackson Jr., 27, of Helena, Arkansas, and Courtney D. Gaines, 26, of Memphis, Tennessee, were charged Sept. 3, 2019, with attempted murder and aggravated discharge of a firearm and indicted Sept.

20 in Lee County Court on those same charges.

The two men were employees of Inmate Services Corp., a West Memphis, Arkansas, interstate inmate transport company, when investigators say they shot at a Dodge Caravan

driven by David L. Brockman.

Lee County Circuit Court Judge Douglas Lee, presiding over the civil suit, found the company liable in the shooting on Nov. 17, 2020, and on Dec. 29, 2020, ordered it to pay Brockman $850,000 – $50,000 for counseling and the rest for emotional damages.

It was a default judgment, meaning the company failed to respond to the finding of liability, or to come to court the day the judgment was rendered.

President Randy Cagle Jr. is named in the court record as representing the company. He could not be reached for comment.

The suit still is pending against Gaines and Jackson, the only other defendants in the case.

Dixon attorneys Paul and Tom Whitcombe are representing Brock-

man.

According to the suit: On Aug. 19, 2019, Jackson was driving and Gaines was the front-seat passenger in a white Inmate Service van transporting at least two inmates in the westbound left lane of Interstate 88. The van’s bright lights were on.

Brockman, who was driving his Caravan westbound in the left lane, moved to the right lane, in front of the transport van, “to get their attention.”

The transport van switched lanes and pulled up next to Brockman, who rolled down his passenger window and yelled to Jackson and Gaines to “turn down your (expletive) brights.”

“Concerned that the security of the inmates they were transporting was being threatened, defendant Jackson produced a firearm from under the

driver’s seat. Defendant Gaines told defendant Jackson to ‘scare the (expletive) out of him.’”

Jackson fired multiple shots at Brockman’s van; four rounds hit it, one passing through a case of water bottles behind Brockman’s seat, the suit says.

The shooting happened just before the Dixon toll booth. Jackson got off at the Dixon exit and pulled into the Road Ranger on Route 26, while Brockman followed at a distance and pulled into the Pizza Hut parking lot across the street and called 911.

Brockman’s dash cam recorded the entire incident.

While Brockman was waiting for state police to arrive, Jackson and

See ROAD RAGE, Page 6

OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

ICC approves crossing improvements near Polo

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Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

4 BRIEFS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Byron’s Exelon employees contribute time, money to local causes

BYRON – Nuclear power plant employees at the Byron Generating Station pledged more than $143,000 to 138 charities during this year’s giving campaign.

The station’s workers also have volunteered more than 560 hours this year through local organizations.

Organizations supported include veterans’ groups such as Darkhorse Lodge, Carpenter’s Place and Veterans Drop-in Center, youth scouting organizations, school groups and multiple United Way agencies.

“One in every two people in Ogle County depends on United Way funded services. Those services wouldn’t be available without the generous support of Exelon and its employees,” said Alan Jones, Ogle County director of the United Way of Rock River Valley. “Their contributions provide long-term solutions to community issues, changing lives and providing hope in Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media Ogle County.”

The Byron plant is located on The donations will be German Church Road. distributed throughout 2022.

“Our employees believe strongly in giving back to the communities in which they live and work. Their generous donations help provide resources for area charities that serve families in need and continue to make a difference for many who have been affected by the pandemic and other

economic stresses,” said Dave Rhoades, Exelon Generation Chief Nuclear Officer.

Collectively, Exelon Generation workers in Illinois, Pennsylvania, New York and Maryland contributed $2.9 million to 2,200 charities. Coupled with grants from the Exelon Foundation, contributions were more than $4.3 million.

First Fridays music show is Jan. 7

The First Fridays Open Mic has moved to K’s Sports Bar at 408 E. Washington (Route 64) in Oregon. Organizers are excited about the new location, which offers an intimate, coffee-house style atmosphere and is close to several restaurants.

“First Fridays presents many talented performers, but the atmosphere is warm and accepting for musicians and singers of all skill levels,” organizer Lowell Harp said.

“Each performer is allowed 15 minutes. Everyone can also join in on a jam session at the Photo supplied end of the show if they wish Guitarist and vocalist Steve to.”

Bernhard often appears at The next show will be at First Fridays 7 p.m. Jan. 7. Admission is free, although a jar is available for donations. Sign-up for performers is at 6:45 p.m.

Interested parties who have questions can call Jerry Tice at 815-449-2660.

Photo supplied

Ella LaVerne Scholl will celebrate her 85th birthday on Jan 3.

Scholl to mark 85th birthday on Jan. 3 Ella LaVerne Scholl will be turning 85 on Jan 3!

LaVerne was married to the late Irvin E. Scholl.

She has two sons, Brent (Kathy) and Bruce (Julie).

She has four grandchildren, Samantha, Matthew, Garrett (Cate) and Scott (Brooke).

She retired from nursing at KSB Hospital in 2003.

Cards may be sent to 109 Pilgrim Road, Polo, IL 61064

LOCAL HISTORY

Family’s Christmas celebration used to last for days

C

hristmas is over for our family and the young ones and myself remember the days when it went on for several days. It always would be on a weekend, usually the weekend before Christmas.

On Friday, my brothers and sisterin-law would arrive and we would have a leisurely noon or evening meal out. Many times we went to the White Pines. I still remember the day it was snowing and we were there at the White Pines for lunch and it was so beautiful.

Then on the next morning, the entire family arrived at our home in Eagle Point for a brunch. I had been preparing food for weeks. I recall asking a new neighbor for a special recipe and she said to me, “I usually do not give out recipes, but I will give this to you. However, do not give it to anyone else!”

I came across that recipe in a recipe box the other day and I never gave it to anyone else or ever fixed it again myself. That person is no longer even living in this state and her recipe is

POLO HISTORY Betty Obendorf still safe!

By noon, we all arrived in Sterling at my sister Ruby Jean’s house and we were there the rest of the day to play her famous Christmas bingo, have a family singalong and open piles of presents.

On the third day, we would end up at Bruce’s in Mt. Morris with a great family get-together for just plain visiting before we all headed for home.

One year, a big blizzard came up while we were all at Bruce’s home and we wondered if we could even get home. Rich Hose was our road commissioner and we gave him a call.

Ruby Jean had her dogs at our house and we had to get home to the animals. This was before the day of cellphones, but Ruby had a one-way

radio in her car. There were three cars of us and, of course, we all got stuck right before the turn off to Eagle Point Road.

Ruby gave Rich a call on her special radio and Rich came to the rescue with the snowplow. We have never forgotten that night as we sat stuck in the snow waiting for Rich to come to rescue us.

Then our family dynamics changed as we lost the older ones. But the little ones are arriving and it is fun to watch the 2 year olds since we had four arrive all in the same year.

COVID-19 also arrived and that has changed our family gatherings. Even though many of us are vaccinated and boostered, people are still getting it.

Little ones are at the mercy of the virus since they are too small for any kind of shots. Families had to decide this year if they wanted to attend Christmas gatherings and our family was no different.

I was very lucky to have Alan, Katie and Arlo Lichtenheld from Minneapolis arrive on Christmas Day and

they stayed two days with me. It was nice to have a 2-year-old show me all the latest toys and he speaks very distinctly.

He also moves like “greased lightening.” They are fast at that age but he found my walker most interesting.

This was something he did not know about and listened as his father explained it to him.

When everyone left and the house was quiet, it was nice to have Alan, Katie and Arlo still here. They walked to the grocery store, got things for tacos and made supper for us.

I had never made tacos and I watched as Alan prepared them. They were delicious and Arlo loved them. It was a wonderful quiet evening together.

By bedtime, the cat came out of hiding, Arlo settled down on his new inflatable mattress for the second night, and our family Christmas for this year was over.

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

OREGON

OREGON – Members of the Ogle County area Womxn in Business group donated items to be raffled in support of PADS Homeless Shelter in Dixon.

Meggan Dickson-Grennan, founder of Womxn in Business and owner of w@sh, an Oregon salon, said her company is passionate about community support and chose to host this year’s holiday raffle.

Womxn in Business was able to raise and donate $300 to PADS, Dickson-Grennan said. She gave a special “thank you” to Liz Hiemstra, of Libra Farms; Linda Bennett, of Arbonne; Kelsey Osborne, of Kinzee-Doo Custom Creations; Mandolen Mull Pack, of Scout & Cellar wine; Mary Elliot, handmade jams + caramels; and Dickson-Grennan, of w@sh.

PADS Homeless Shelter runs 24/7/365 and provides shelter, services, clothing, food and daily needs for its residents. PADS hosts families with children of all ages. For more information, call 815-288-6818.

The Ogle County area Womxn in Business is a network of femxle business owners holding space to connect, find support and build relationships with peers who recognize the hard work it takes to be entrepreneurs, Dickson-Grennan said. For more information, contact Dickson-Grennan at wash.salon815@gmail.com.

Find out more about w@sh at wash815.com.

The Ogle County area Womxn in Business group raised and donated $300 to PADS Homeless Shelter in Dixon. Pictured are Meggan Dickson-Grennan, founder of Womxn in Business, (right); Joanna Kibble, PADS director, (center); Kibble’s daughter Paityn; and PADS residents Martin, Journey Rose, Josh, Julie and Mike.

Photo provided by Meggan Dickson-Grennan

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OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

Womxn in Business donates $300 to PADS

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Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

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SPECIAL EVENT

Fundraiser for 13-year-old with cancer is Jan. 8

BY ALEXA ZOELLNER

azoellner@shawmedia.com OREGON – A Jan. 8 fundraiser will be held for a 13-year-old Oregon boy who was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in October Patrick Newcomer was diagnosed Oct. 8 with Ewing sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer, after a 4-by-4-inch tumor was found on his right kidney

along with spots on his lungs. He faces 32 weeks of treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation and removal of his kidney.

Joe and Monica Miller are hosting a cookout at Kneez in the Breeze – 215 Washington St., in Oregon – starting at 4 p.m. and running “until it dies down.”

There will be hot dogs, brats and hamburgers, as well as a silent auction

for a few gift baskets, Joe Miller said.

Whatever amount of money people are willing and able to donate is wonderful, Monica Miller said.

“To help a family out,” Monica Miller said when asked the reason for hosting the event. “Their 13-year-old son has a long journey ahead.”

Patrick’s parents, Shantel and Tony Newcomer, are members of the Millers’ riding club, Bitch’n Bulldogs.

A benefit will be held Jan. 8 for Patrick Newcomer in Oregon.

COUNTY NEWS

FFA helping collect live Christmas trees for recycling The Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department (OCSWMD) will once again partner with units of local government and certain high school Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapters to conduct the annual Christmas tree collection and recycling program.

Since the program began in 1999, there have been more than 15,500 trees collected, with trees averaging around 50 pounds each, which equates to about 385 tons of tree material that was turned into usable mulch.

Starting on Dec. 26, these cities and villages will have drop-off points: Oregon: Park District Maintenance Dept., 507 Hill St. Byron: Byron boat launch lot, East Blackhawk Drive (Route 2) Forreston: 407 N. Locust St. Leaf River: 605 Main St. Rochelle: Atwood Park, 10th Avenue and 20th Street.

Monroe Center: Lichty’s Landscaping, 309 Pacific St. Polo: Southwest corner of East

Colden Street and South Green Avenue.

On Saturday, Jan. 8, local FFA chapters will provide curbside pickup for trees.

Remove all decorations, lights and plastic bags, and place your tree at your curb by 8 a.m.

This pickup service will be offered in Byron, Forreston, Leaf River, Mt. Morris, Oregon and Polo.

For Rochelle residents, the Rochelle Street Department will mulch trees at the curb during the first two weeks of January, weather permitting.

• ROAD RAGE

Continued from Page 3 Gaines left, called their employer at Inmate Services, and told him what happened. He told them to “get rid of the evidence” by disposing of the gun, thus ratifying their conduct, the suit says.

Brockman is seeking $1 million in damages plus costs from each man for assault. He had asked the same from Inmate Services.

Jackson’s private attorney, Daniel E. Radakovich of Chicago, has filed a motion to dismiss the suit against his client.

In it, he argues that Brockman did not have a reasonable apprehension of receiving a battery, one of the elements of assault that must be proven, because, according to his interview with state police, he did not know at the time he was being shot at – he heard only thuds when the bullets struck his Caravan, he didn’t see a gun or Jackson pointing or shooting a gun because of the tint on windows of the transport van, and because it was too dark to see the transport van window being rolled down.

He cannot, in fact, even identify Jackson as the shooter, Radakovich argues.

All Brockman heard “was what he believed sounded like rocks hitting his vehicle. That is all that is at issue here – sounds. No visual conduct, no visual evidence, and no visual confirmation of Jackson’s involvement.

“These facts are insufficient to establish that

Lee County Sheriff’s Office

Courtney Gaines (left) and Kennedy Jackson Jr., who are charged with attempted murder in an apparent road rage case, also are being sued by a Dixon man who said they shot at his vehicle, hitting it four times.

Jackson caused plaintiff to reasonably apprehend that he would suffer a battery, and they are therefor insufficient to establish that Jackson is liable to plaintiff for assault,” the motion says.

In his response, Tom Whitcombe cites case law that notes that “the intention to do harm is of the essence of an assault,” and that all the case law Radakovich cited was for criminal cases that require the “beyond all reasonable doubt” standard for conviction, whereas a civil case requires the lesser burden of a preponderance of evidence.

A status hearing in the civil suit is set for Jan. 14.

Jackson is in Lee County jail on $1 million bond.

All trees should be free of light strands, garland, and other decorations. No wreaths or other designs with wire backings and no artificial trees.

Drop-off ends Jan. 23, 2022.

For information regarding this program, including specific drop-off points for trees or the FFA collection service, call the OCSWMD at 815-7324020, visit the Ogle County Solid Waste Management Dept. on Facebook, or go to the county website at oglecounty.org.

Gaines was freed Oct., 2019, after posting $5,000, of his $50,000 bond.

Gaines, who is represented by Lee County Public Defender Bob Thompson in the criminal case, appears to have no attorney in the civil suit, and has not appeared at any hearings related to the suit.

Jackson’s next hearing in the criminal case is Jan. 26; Gaines’ next hearing is Jan. 27.

Attempted murder carries six to 30 years in prison, or up to 80 years if the victim is an officer, firefighter or corrections officer acting in an official capacity; 20 years can be added for the use of a gun, and at least 85% of the term must be served.

Aggravated discharge is punishable by four to 15 years.

It is not clear from the suit which agency Inmates Services Corp. was working for that day, or if it was transporting prisoners from Illinois or Iowa. Messages left with state agencies looking to clarify that information have not been returned this holiday week.

Online reports outline a history of escapes and accusations of maltreatment of inmates nationwide, and federal court records show the company is named in one capacity or another in more than 40 lawsuits, all in various stages of adjudication.

In May 2018, inmate Dennis Shaner, 50, took the unsecured gun from under the driver’s seat of an Inmate Services van in Greene County, Missouri, and shot himself in the head.

SPORTS ROUNDUP

7

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

Oregon’s Teagan Champley looks to shoot during Dec. 18 action against South Beloit at the Blackhawk Center.

Kahlil Sankey and Cooper Blake scored 10 points apiece to pace a balanced attack for Polo (6-6), which trailed 11-7 after the first quarter, led 23-22 at halftime, then trailed 34-32 heading into the final period. Tyler Merdian and Carson Jones both scored seven – with all of Merdian’s points coming at the free-throw line – and Carter Merdian added six points.

Anthony Bell led Oregon with 13 points, Isaac Reber scored seven, and Isaac Nelson and Josh Crandall both finished with six.

Eastland 66, Forreston 34: The Cougars used a 26-7 scoring edge in the second quarter to take control in an NUIC South win in Lanark.

Kellen Henze hit five 3-pointers and poured in 40 points for

BUILT LOCAL * WE DELIVER

Eastland, while Jaxson Sturtevant added 12 points, and Max McCullough scored six.

Joe Snyder’s 12 points led Forreston, and Tommy Appel finished with five.

Fulton 66, Forreston 34: The Steamers bolted to a 21-5 lead in the first quarter then stretched it to 41-10 by halftime to win their NUIC South opener on the road.

Baylen Damhoff poured in 27 points for Fulton (11-1, 1-0), which also scored 20 points in the third quarter. Ian Wiebenga had 10 points, and Brock Mason added eight.

Joe Snyder’s 14 points paced the Cardinals, and Owen Greenfield scored 12.

Eastland Holiday Tournament Pecatonica 58, Forreston 39: The Cardinals fell behind 17-6 after one quarter and couldn’t catch up in a tournament loss in Lanark. Joe Snyder scored 14 points, and Cole Becker added 11 for Forreston. Pec was led by Trent Hetland’s 16 points.

Wrestling The Hawks defeated Rock Falls 48-24 and Rockford Lutheran 54-12 in a pair of Big Northern Conference duals at the Blackhawk Center.

Lane Halverson won twice at 132 pounds for Oregon (5-4, 2-0 BNC), with pins in 53 seconds against Rock Falls and 34 seconds against Lutheran.

Seth Stevens (145 pounds), Anthony Bauer (152), Gabe Eckerd (160) and Evan Flaharty (285) also notched pins against Rock Falls, while Andrew Young (195) added a pin against Lutheran. The Hawks also received seven forfeits against the Crusaders.

Happy

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OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

Girls basketball Polo 38, Dakota 36: The Marcos rallied for an NUIC win at home, outscoring the Indians 23-12 in the second half to come back from a 24-15 halftime deficit.

Lindee Poper had a double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds, and she also blocked six shots to lead Polo. Nicole Boelens scored six points, Sydnei Rahn finished with five, and Kadence Sheaffer and Natalie Nelson both had three points; Sheaffer added five steals, four rebounds and three assists, and Nelson dished three assists.

Oregon 55, Indian Creek 45: The Hawks used a 12-6 second-quarter surge to build a 23-14 halftime lead, and led 35-28 through three quarters in a nonconference win in Shabbona.

Hadley Lutz poured in 22 points for Oregon, and Mariah Drake added 18. Audrey Witte’s 14 points led Indian Creek, and Geena Sanford scored 11.

KSB Dixon Holiday Classic Stillman Valley 58, Newman 10: The Comets lost their opener at Reagan Middle School, falling behind 19-4 after one quarter and 39-6 by halftime.

Taylor Davidson had 12 points for Stillman, and Maddie McCammon added 10.

Byron 51, Oregon 31: The Hawks fell to the rival Tigers in the quarterfinals at Lancaster Gym, as Byron advanced to the semifinals.

Boys basketball Polo 46, Oregon 40: The Marcos rallied to top the Hawks at the Blackhawk Center, outscoring Oregon 14-6 in the fourth quarter.

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

8

SPORTS COLUMN

Mother Nature provided a unique Christmas Day E

xperiencing Christmas without family for the first time ever, the decision was made to spend much of it in the “great outdoors.”

On Christmas Eve morning, I joined about 30 people from a Dixon running club for a few miles on the trails of White Pines State Park. After everyone else left, I ambled about and discovered a new 130-acre plot adjoining the park to the west.

It was the Edward Vassallo Land and Water Reserve, a private entity that is part of the Illinois Nature Preserve System.

Designated in 2014, it has plenty of well-maintained trails amid native grasses and plants – a real hidden gem that can be accessed by simply contacting the private stewardship for permission to use the trails.

Already spoiled by the state parks around Oregon, I did not expect to encounter another beautiful place to enjoy nature.

After a delightful evening and morning of church services, Christmas Day was spent in near solitude at Lowden-Miller State Forest.

With 2,300 acres, a person almost can get lost.

Fortunately, there are markers at every junction of the 22-mile trail system. With so many miles to hike or run on, it is rare to encounter anyone.

GUEST VIEW Andy Colbert

On a sunny 50-degree day, I saw less than 10 people, including former Oregon distance coach John Axelson, who joined me for a few miles of running.

We both agreed the Lowden-Miller doesn’t get anywhere near the use it should.

Many a day I will be out for hours on end and not see anyone. Do we have too much of a good thing in and around Oregon with Lowden-Miller, White Pines, Castle Rock and Lowden?

White Pines and Lowden State Park get plenty of use, while Castle Rock and Lowden-Miller do not. At least that has been my observations over the years.

White Pines and Lowden have the advantages of a long tradition, camping and attractions. Castle Rock (1978) and Lowden-Miller (1993) are newer and more primitive, though Castle Rock has a few amenities.

I spent much of the day at Castle Rock on a beautiful Dec. 23 and nearly had the place to myself. When you hear of national and state parks overwhelmed with large crowds, the lack

of visitors at Castle Rock and L-M are a good problem to have.

Yes, I realize the winter isn’t the best time to gauge park attendance, but the rest of the year is slow, too.

Could it be that we are over-saturated with parks? To have that many state parks/forests so close to one town is rare.

Among the runners that came out to White Pines was a school teacher from Clinton, Iowa, that marveled at everything Oregon has to offer.

Nowhere close to Clinton could she find anything like our park system.

In chatting with her, I wondered if any value existed in marketing Oregon as a training Mecca for ultra runners interested in miles and miles of good trails located so close to one another.

Besides the aforementioned parks, a few miles north of town are 20 more miles of trails on nature sites the Byron Forest Preserve maintains.

Don’t forget about Bald Hill, with its famous big tree and trails.

Southward, the uniqueness continues with 10 miles of trails at Nachusa Grasslands. If the opportunity to see bison while running isn’t a draw, I don’t know what is.

A stone’s throw away from Nachusa is Franklin Creek State Natural Area, home to several miles of trails with distinctiveness about them, so much

so that a brand new 10K race was conducted this fall.

Bald Hill has even jumped into the fray with a nighttime 12-hour race in February. The 75 allotted spots are nearly sold out, an indication of the growth in ultra-running. One could also say it is an indication of how crazy people must be to run throughout the night in the middle of winter.

Sports tourism has become a big business. Admittedly, runners pale in comparison to youth sport enterprises and the like.

And compared with their brethren who bicycle, runners are tighter when it comes to throwing cash around. But if you look at how the trail runners helped a dying mining town such as Leadville, Colorado, come alive as a nationwide running destination, anything is possible.

We don’t have the ruggedness of the Rockies Mountains like Leadville, but I wouldn’t trade what the Oregon area has in terms of trail running for anything.

And for that, I am very grateful to call this my home and also not too bad of a place to spend Christmas alone.

• Andy Colbert, an avid runner, has been a sports writer for Shaw Media and has covered high school sports in Ogle County for more than 30 years.

ROCK RIVER CENTER Activities Rock River Center is a resource center located at 810 S. 10th St., Oregon. Activities and trips are open to all ages. Call 815-732-3252 or visit www.rockrivercenter.org for more information.

Registration is requested for anyone planning to attend a scheduled program or class at Rock River Center.

January 2022 Yoga for ALL Ages Jennifer Pierce EdD, leads movement and exercises using yoga and mindfulness concepts.

Incorporating these techniques into your lifestyle can enhance health, increase strength, improve balance and flexibility, and reduce depression and anxiety.

Classes will be held Monday and Wednesday, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Class dates are: Jan. 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26, and 31. All participants should arrive 5-10 minutes before the class starts; bring a yoga mat, water bottle, and wear loose-fitting clothing.

Enrollment Options are: $35: Advance Enrollment for 1 class a week (1 free class), $70: Advance Enrollment for all 16 dates (2 free classes), $5 Drop-In Rate per class (No free classes) Advance enrollment is encouraged to get free class time.

Space may be limited. Call 815-732-3252 to sign up.

Domestic Abuse Awareness Program HOPE of Ogle County will be at Rock River Center to facilitate an informational program on Domestic Abuse Awareness. This program will take place on Jan. 10, from 10-11 a.m. at Rock River Center.

Join us if you would like to know: What is domestic abuse?

How to recognize the signs? HOPE of Ogle County services/ How they can help. How to make a referral to HOPE. Be prepared to learn statistics, important facts, resources and answers to your questions. Handouts will be available.

To sign up for this very informative free program, call 815-732-3252.

Nicor Gas Sharing Program NICOR GAS sharing program is available to assist those NICOR customers whose income is above 150% of poverty level and less than 250% of the poverty level.

For a 1-person household the 30-day income minimum gross must be at least $2,148, but no more than the limit of $2,683, For a 2-person household the minimum gross monthly income must be at least $2,905, but no more than $3,629, For a 3-person household the minimum gross monthly income must be at least $3,661, but no more than $4,575, etc. This program is available through Aug. 31.

You can apply for the NICOR GAS Sharing program through

the Rock River Center. Call 800-541-5479 or 815-732-3252 for more information or to make an appointment.

2021 Heating Assistance - LIHEAP Colder weather is just around the corner and we all will be experiencing higher utility bills as we need to turn on the heat in our homes. There are two programs that help those with low-income pay for their heating utility bills.

The LIHEAP program continues to accept applications for assistance with paying heating bills.

Tri County Opportunities Council is the agency that processes those applications and they will be available at two locations in Ogle County, Oregon and Rochelle, by appointment only.

The Oregon Tri-County Office is located inside the Rock River Center, 810 S 10th Street. Appointments are available.

Call 815-732-2907 for an appointment in Oregon.

The Rochelle Tri County Office is located at 306 N 6th Street. Appointments are available Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Call 815-562-6938 for an appointment in Rochelle.

In order to qualify, your household must meet the following income guidelines, no more than 200% of the poverty level.

For a 1-person household the 30-day income limit is $2,147; 2-person household is $2,903; 3-person household is $3,660, etc.

SPORTS

BY TY REYNOLDS

treynolds@shawmedia.com For 20 months, the Polo Marcos had their sights set on a second straight Illinois 8-Man Football Association state championship.

After a senior-heavy team won the school’s first team state title in 2019, the sophomores and freshmen who spent that fall mostly watching from the sideline knew they wanted to do it again.

But the COVID-19 pandemic pushed the 2020 season into the spring of 2021, and forced the cancellation of the playoffs. So the dream of claiming another crown simmered through another offseason before they got the chance again.

The Marcos certainly seized the opportunity.

They followed up a perfect regular season with a memorable playoff run, ending with a come-frombehind 12-7 win over Orangeville in a defensive slugfest in the I8FA state championship game to cap a perfect season.

And while he deflects a lot of the credit and praise to his players and coaching staff, Polo’s Ted Alston is the Sauk Valley Media’s 2021 Football Coach of the Year.

•••

In 2019, Polo cruised to the I8FA state championship in its first season in 8-man. That team scored 559 points and allowed only 124 over 12 games, an

See ALSTON, Page 10

ATTENTION VENDORS!

Polo coach Ted Alston is the 2021 SVM Football Coach of the Year.

Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@shawmedia.com

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OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

Alston appreciates team, season during title run

9

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

10

• ALSTON

Continued from Page 9 average margin of victory of 46.6-10.3 per game.

This year’s Marcos wanted to emulate the end result, but knew they had to be their own team. As dominant a season as 2019 was, these players knew if they wanted to add another trophy, they’d have to do things their own way.

That way was simple, actually: work hard and focus on the little things, and the rest will take care of itself. Throw in an even-keel attitude and the ability to roll with the punches, and that’s the formula the Marcos found for success.

“They were definitely a different team. They’ve just been able to adjust and do the things they needed to do.

They rolled with the punches, that’s a great way of putting it,” Alston said.

“They never got too worked up, either good or bad. The most excited I saw them was when we scored the second touchdown against Orangeville [in the state championship game].

“These kids didn’t get too high or too low. They were pretty even keel, so their ability to take things as they come, overcome them, and be willing to improve in areas where we said, ‘Hey, we’re not good at this,’ was key. Instead of pouting, they just said, ‘All right, let’s get better at it, then.’”

Alston points to a Week 3 win over Amboy-LaMoille as a key moment in the Marcos’ season. After scoring on four of its five first-half possessions and taking a 30-16 lead into halftime, Polo found itself in a dogfight when the Clippers came out red-hot in the third quarter and got to within 30-28 with 1:59 remaining in the third quarter.

“That game was the turning point,” Alston said. “We kind of had the game in hand at halftime, and they came out

and took it to us in the second half. The end of the third quarter, we got the ball back and we were up two points, and we just said, ‘Do you want to be good or do you want to be great?’ We told them exactly what they needed to do, and that was drive the ball, burn some clock – because they were killing us – and put the ball in the end zone.”

His players listened. The Marcos went on a 15-play drive that chewed up 8:28 off the clock, capping it with a 3-yard touchdown run by Brock Soltow on a fourth-and-inches play for a 36-28 lead. Soltow’s interception a few minutes later sealed the win.

“We had an eight- or nine-minute drive, and that was kind of when the whole thing started of us saying we’re a good team right now, but good teams don’t win championships,” Alston said.

“Good teams get in the playoffs, and that’s all fine and well, but that was when we started asking do you want to be good or do you want to be great, and if you want to be great, you have to do these things. So after the Amboy game, that was really when we changed for the better.”

Senior center Cooper Blake said the Amboy game was just further proof of what he and his teammates started to discover in the first game of the season.

Polo trailed rival Milledgeville in the second half of a back-and-forth affair, but scored a late touchdown and twopoint conversion to take a 40-38 lead, then held on with a defensive stop to start the season with a win.

“Winning another state title was the plan since the preseason, and how we played against Milledgeville in Week 1 was big,” Blake said. “That game really set the tone for the entire season and how we were able to just play hard and get in a battle and be able to come out on top.”

•••

Riding the momentum of that big

OGLE COUNTY SHERIFF

win over Amboy just wasn’t in the cards for the Marcos. Polo’s opponents in Weeks 4 and 5 were forced to forfeit because of COVID-19 issues, and Alston and assistant coaches Cliff Bardell, Jeff Barger, Jesse Culbertson and Matt Scholl found themselves trying to keep their team focused and energized after a momentum-building win turned into a waiting game.

But after three straight weeks of practice, the Marcos weren’t the least bit rusty for a Week 6 game against River Ridge. They completely dominated the Wildcats in a 66-6 win, then when Milledgeville defeated Orangeville 56-26 that same night, that’s when the players really felt they had something here in terms of a run to the trophy.

“After Week 6, us beating River Ridge and Milledgeville beating Orangeville, we knew then that we had as good a chance as anybody to win the state title,” senior quarterback Tyler Merdian said.”Those two weeks off really came in clutch for us. We worked on a lot of things we had struggled with through the first three weeks, so it helped us a lot.”

Looking back, Alston also said that two-week hiatus was a contributing factor to Polo’s season. The attitude of the players, and their ability to adapt to a less-than-desirable situation and come out more determined and focused on the other side, turned out to be exactly what they’d need later on in the season.

“We were a little nervous about that; getting the back-to-back COVID thing was rough in terms of trying to keep the kids focused and excited,” Alston said.

“You can lose a team taking three weeks off between games.”

The approach was to go back to the basics. Alston and his coaches spent a big chunk of time in every practice during those three weeks going over a

few things “we felt we just weren’t doing as well as we should be,” Alston said, and doing a few different things here and there to keep the kids entertained.

“The biggest thing with the kids was they were willing and able to recognize some self-improvement that needed to be done as a team, and we were kind of fortunate that we had those couple weeks with the COVID situation,” Alston said. “The kids knew there was a reason we were doing this every single night over and over and over again, and they responded well, I give them credit. We had to get creative with some of our practices, make them fun here and there to keep it more entertaining.

“When we came back against River Ridge, we were nervous, but, man, we played really well those next couple of weeks, and the kids responded so well to that situation. It was a rough situation, but I think this year’s team has been so good at dealing with weird situations.”

That ability to respond in the face of adversity turned out to be a big deal. In the second round of the playoffs, Polo found itself trailing by two touchdowns against Milford-Cissna Park – the first time the Marcos had been behind in a couple of months – and the team refused to quit.

Then in the state championship game, Orangeville shut out the Marcos in the first half – the first time that had happened all season – and yet they still found a way to score twice in the second half to pull out the 12-7 win.

“I think the biggest thing was leadership,” Blake said. “Everyone that was able to step up and be a leader and get everyone rallied and ready to go, that was huge for everybody. You get that one person who everyone gets behind, and you’ll run through a wall for that guy.”

OREGON POLICE

Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle reports the following activity: Dec. 20 Monique Reed, 39, of Rockford, was arrested at 2:52 p.m. for no valid driver’s license and cited for speeding after a traffic stop in the 8000 block of Illinois Route 251. Reed was released on a signature I-Bond.

Dec. 21 Adrian Gillette, 44, of Davis Junction, was arrested at 8:18 a.m. for driving while license revoked, no insurance and no valid registration at Eddy Road and Illinois Route 251. Gillette was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond. His Nissan Altima was towed by Maggio’s.

Curtis Bloodworth, 36, of Whitley City, Kentucky, was arrested at 9:30 p.m. for driving while license suspended following a traffic stop on Interstate 39 at mile-marker 99. Bloodworth was issued an I-Bond and will appear in court at a later date.

See SHERIFF, Page 11

Oregon Police Chief Shawn Melville reports the following police activity.

motor vehicle. These violations occurred in the 400 block of East Washington Street.

Dec. 20 Marcello Castillo, 30, Mt. Morris, was issued a citation at 7:27 a.m. for operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

This violation occurred in the 1100 block of South Second Street.

Dec. 25 Jayden T. Berry, 19, of Rockford, was arrested at 9:28 p.m. on an outstanding Winnebago County warrant on an assault charge. Berry was transported to the Ogle County Jail.

Dec. 23 At 11:49 p.m., police responded to a disturbance call in the 500 block of South Fifth Street resulting in the arrest of Julian R. Moorehead, 22, of DeKalb, for disorderly conduct and criminal trespass to a vehicle.

Moorehead was transported to the Ogle County Jail.

Dec. 26 Gregory L. Brown, Jr., 40, of Dixon, was issued a citation at 7:22 p.m. for speeding 48 mph in a 30 mph zone. This violation occurred in the 600 block of North Fourth Street.

Dec. 24 Vicki L. Williamson, 60, of Sycamore, was issued citations at 9:10 a.m. for operating a vehicle when registration is suspended and operating an uninsured

One parking ticket and five verbal warnings were issued Dec. 20-26.

Note: Any arrests listed are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proved guilty in a court of law.

• SHERIFF

Dec. 22 Danilo Morales, 32, of Rochelle, was arrested for aggravated assault and domestic battery after deputies responded to a 911 call reporting a domestic disturbance on Sunflower Lane in Rochelle.

Morales was held without bond at the Ogle County Jail.

Dec. 23 Deputies responded to a one-vehicle crash in the 1500 block of West Mudcreek Road.

Eric Ortega, 38, of Mt. Morris, was traveling west on West Mudcreek Road when a deer ran onto the road in front of the vehicle. The vehicle struck the deer and suffered disabling damage as a result. Ortega and two juvenile female passengers were transported

by Mt. Morris ambulance to KSB Hospital for medical evaluation. No citations were issued.

Dec. 24 Russell Himebauch, 40, of Machesney Park,

Brian P. Printz, 57, of Stillman Valley, was arrested at 8:26 p.m. for driving while under the influence of alcohol in the 5000 block of Illinois Route 72. Printz also was cited for speeding 78 mph in a 55 mph speed zone.

Printz was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond.

Jadin Mershon, 22, of Rochelle, was arrested at 11:20 p.m. for driving while license suspended after deputies conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 39 near mile-marker 106 southbound. Mershon also was cited for speeding and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Mershon was released on an I-Bond and will appear in court at a later date.

Dec. 25 Lee Dallas III, 20, of Machesney Park, was arrested at 1:54 a.m. for driving while license

suspended after deputies conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 39 near mile-marker 100 northbound. Dallas also was cited for illegal window tint. Dallas was released on an I-Bond and will appear in court at a later date.

Mason J. Wolter, 21, of Stillman Valley, was arrested at 8:41 p.m. for disorderly conduct after deputies responded to the 6000 block of E. Hales Corner Road in reference to a domestic problem. Wolter was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond.

arrived at a single-vehicle crash in the 8200 block of Illinois Route 251.

Peterson also was cited for failure to report a vehicle accident and improper lane use.

Peterson was transported to the Ogle County Jail and released on bond.

Dec. 27 Michael T. Peterson, 53, of Byron, was arrested at 12:22 a.m. for driving while under the influence of alcohol after deputies

About 5:16 p.m., deputies received a driving complaint on a silver Chevrolet van traveling eastbound on Illinois Route 64 from Rock Road. Deputies located the Chevrolet and initiated a traffic stop in the McDonald’s parking lot in Oregon.

After further investigation, Chadd W. Stokes, 64, of Rockford, was arrested for unlawful possession of cannabis, more than 100 grams (a Class 4 felony), possession of cannabis with intent to deliver, improper container of cannabis/driver, and driving while license suspended.

Stokes was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was held with no bond.

Stokes was additionally cited for operating an uninsured motor vehicle and improper traffic lane use.

Robin Road, Polo, $896,000.

Bradley S. and Janette S. Folkers to Kevin J., Janette S. and Keith B. Folkers, one parcel in Eagle Point Township, $660,000.

Andrew Barshinger to Lynn M. Dubowski, 100 W. Main St., Byron, $87,469.

Quit Claim Deed John A. and Amy E. Lauer to Ruth Ann Corcoran, 204 Sunset Lane, Mt. Morris, $0.

Trustee Deeds Fred and Betsy Grimes Family Trust, Joel Grimes, trustee, to John McCue, 6127 N. Oak Drive, Stillman Valley, $74,900.

Calvin S. and Barbara E. Reeverts Living Trust 1, Calvin S. and Barbara E. Reeverts, trustees, and Calvin S. and Barbara E. Reeverts to Scott P. and Mary F. Miller, 9497 E. Scott Road, Davis Junction, $315,000.

Gladys M. Typer Revocable Trust 1, Barbara Jo Ruter, trustee, to Fairbanks Revocable Trust 1, Stanley A. Weber, trustee, 2856 S. Freeport Road, Polo, $421,590.

Dec. 26 Dontay Martin, 34, of Rockford, was arrested for domestic battery pursuant to an investigation by deputies of a domestic disturbance at an address in rural Rochelle about 7:23 p.m.

Martin was transported to the Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond.

PROPERTY TRANSFERS Victoria Dummer to David F. Buse, 507 S. First St., Oregon, $121,000.

Tommy and Heidi Lynx to Edgar Lopez, 1045 N. Second St., Rochelle, $154,500.

Anita T. Hayward to Kyle C. and Darah M. Bridgeman, two parcels in Oregon-Nashua Township and one in Rockvale Township, $239,900.

Anthony J. Gonzalez to Antonino and Marianna Alfano, 400 S. Fourth St., Oregon, $103,000.

Michelle and Brian Barrett to Kevin and Heather Ramirez, 401 N. Franklin Ave., Polo, $75,900.

Judson Farm Inc. to Dollmeyer Farms LLC, 11749 W. Judson Road, Polo, $250,000.

Leonard J. Bryson, Donna K. Crow and Gail M. Schroeder to Dollmeyer Farms LLC, 11749 W. Judson Road, Polo, $250,000.

Joanne Carr to Joseph Leonard and Wendy Sue Stevens, 831 W. Jennie Lane, Oregon, $287,000.

Kallob E. Kite to Nicole Bredeson and Misael Guerrero, 108 N. Mineral St., Byron, $122,000.

Matthew David and Kimberly Ann Rosebrock to Duston J. Rakowski, 608 S. Third St., Oregon, $103,000.

Lee Hadick to John Kelly, 503 S. Eighth St., Oregon, $7,500.

Kathy M. Bradbury to Elizabeth Anne Barnhart, 501 Sunset Lane, Mt. Morris, $70,000.

Marilyn J. Ely and the late Brian H. Ely to Bradley S. and Janette S. Folkers, 16287 W

Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office

• Full Service Optical Lab • Contact Lenses

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Dec. 17-23 Warranty Deeds Roger and Riley Comins to Hinkleman LLC, 303 S. Second St., Oregon, $62,000.

Grant D. Powell to Christopher Klenke, 401 E. Front St., Mt. Morris, $105,000.

Youssi Investments LLC to Nathan and Sarah Grobe, one parcel in Marion Township, Byron, $33,900.

Michael J. and Jayne Kae Papini to Dwayne Rangel, 128 S. 12th St., Rochelle, $48,000.

Russell L. Hill to Nature Conservancy, 1405 E. Flagg Road, Dixon, $862,500.

Stephanie Pest to David and Beth Fixmer, 11814 Cottonwood Court, Rochelle, $190,000.

Wiggale LLC to Todd and Tammy Moser, 304 N. Third St., Oregon, $114,000.

Lois M. Hill to Frederick C. Hill, one parcel in Dement Township, Rochelle, $356,250.

Lois M. Hill to Roger K. Hill, 7607 S. Woodlawn Road, Creston, $92,000.

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation to Ron Andrew Gallagher, 114 N. Hannah Ave., Mt. Morris, $27,506.

Elizabeth A. Miller to Christopher Tyron and Paula Sue Bender Living Trust, Christopher Tyron and Paula Sue Bende, trustees, 1100 Gehant Court, Rochelle, $236,900.

National Residential Nominee Services Inc. to Marshall C. Schwartz and Geoffry Bunger, 9682 E. Marquand Drive, Rochelle, $324,900.

Heath and Tiffany Renfro to National Residential Nominee Services Inc., 9682 E. Marquand Drive, Rochelle, $324,900.

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11 OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

Continued from Page 10

was arrested for driving while license revoked after deputies conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 39 for speeding. Himebauch was released on an I-Bond and will appear in court at a later date.

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

12

EMPLOYMENT

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NURSE WANTED

Full Time Please apply at: Heritage Square 620 N. Ottawa Ave, Dixon, IL or - www.HeritageSquareDixon.com

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Dixon

Call for available Motor Routes!

CALL 815-632-2516

EMPLOYMENT

Enjoy the Rewards: In return for your contributions to our success, Shaw Media offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with company match.

EMPLOYMENT

Don't need it?

Sell it!

CNA WANTED

2nd Shift Please apply at: Heritage Square 620 N. Ottawa Ave, Dixon, IL or - www.HeritageSquareDixon.com

EMPLOYMENT

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Ogle County Classified 833-584-NEWS

FRANTZ Manufacturing Company is growing, and we have an URGENT NEED for PRESS OPERATORS to set-up and run our Steel Stamping Press machines that use Progressive Dies to make our parts.

Anyone with experience is welcome, and we offer a great starting wage and excellent benefits with: Immediate Medical/Dental insurance, Quick Vacation plus Earned Paid Time Off, Retirement 401k w/ Co Match, and Monthly Bonuses!

Multiple shifts and part time available.

Contact us today to learn more!

Email us at: HR@frantz-mfg.com or Come in person or send resume to: 3201 West Lefevre Rd, Sterling, IL 61081.

Call us at: (815) 625-7063

EMPLOYMENT

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ATTENTION ALL PRESS OPERATORS!

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Don’t need it?

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CALL 815-220-6942

est. 1851

Sauk Valley Media • 113 S. Peoria Dixon, IL 61021

About Shaw Media: Shaw Media publishes over 150 titles in Illinois and Iowa.

Its holdings include websites, newspapers, magazines, and a digital marketing services division. Founded in Dixon, Illinois, Shaw Media has been privately owned by the Shaw family since its inception in 1851.

Shaw Media is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug-Free Workplace.

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REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

13

REAL ESTATE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS UNION SAVINGS BANK, Plaintiff, VS. ELIZABETH A. BRODERICK, UNKNOWN OWNERS, UNKNOWN TENANTS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendant.

NO. 21-CH-27 PUBLIC NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE Public notice is hereby given that in pursuance of the decree entered in this Court in the above-entitled cause on the 3rd day of December, 2021, I, Brian E. VanVickle, Sheriff of Ogle County, or such other deputy as may be sitting in his stead, shall sell at public venue to the highest and best bidder, the following described lands and premises described in said decree, or so much thereof as may be necessary to realize the amount due to satisfy said decree, upon the following terms and conditions: A. The name, address, and telephone of the person to contact for information regarding the real estate is: Matthew Bowen, Union Savings Bank, 223 W. Stephenson Street, Freeport, IL 61032, (815) 235-0800.

B. The common address of said property is: 505 W. Hitt Street, Mt. Morris, IL 61054 C. The legal description of the property is: Part of the Northeast Quarter (1/4) of the Southwest Quarter (1/4) of Section 27, Township 24 North, Range 9 East of the Fourth Principal Meridian, more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point 471.1 feet West and 10 feet South of the centerline of said Section 27; running thence South, 140 feet thence West 204 feet thence North, 140 feet thence East, 204 feet to the Place of Beginning; situated in the Township of Mt Morris, County of Ogle and State of Illinois.

EXCEPTING THEREFROM that portion deeded to the People of the State of Illinois

by Warranty Deed recorded July 22, 2002, as Document No. 0209332, described as follows: A parcel of land in the Northeast Quarter (1/4) of the Southwest Quarter (174) of Section 27, Township 24 North, Range 9 East of the Fourth Principal Meridian, Ogle County, Illinois, described as follows: Commencing at the Northwest corner of the Southwest Quarter (1/4) of said Section 27; thence Easterly, on the North line of said Southwest Quarter (1/4), said line having a tearing of North 88 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East a distance of 1972.46 feet to the Northeast comer of the premises conveyed to Barry J. Rittenhouse and Donna M Rittenhouse from Nelson H. Rittenhouse by Quit Claim Deed recorded May 9, 1996, as Document No 9604292 in the Recorder's Office of Ogle County, thence southerly, on. the East line of said premises so conveyed, said line having a bearing of South 1 degree 31 minutes 44 seconds East a distance of 1000 feet to the Point of Beginning of the hereinafter described parcel of land; thence continuing Southerly, on the last described course, a distance of 2024 feet thence Easterly, on a line having a bearing of North 82 degrees 30 minutes 00 seconds East a distance of 40,30 feet to the Southerly Right-of-Way line of a Public highway, designated FA. Route 17, (IL 64); thence Easterly, on said Southerly Right.of-Way line, said line having a bearing of North 87 degrees 55 minutes 37 seconds East a distance of 164,00 feet to the East line of the premises so conveyed to Elizabeth A. Broderick and Michael F. Broderick from Elizabeth A. Young n/k/a Elizabeth A. Broderick by Quit Claim Deed recorded November 11, 1997, as Document No. 9709717 in said Recorder's Office; thence Northerly, on the East line of said premises so conveyed, said line having a bearing of North 1 degree 31 minutes 44 seconds West a distance of 1490 feet to the Northeast corner of said premises so conveyed; thence Westerly, on the North line of said premises so conveyed, said line having a bearing of South 88 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds West a distance of 204.08 feet to the Point of Beginning; situated in the Township of Mt Morris, County of Ogle and State of Illinois.

ALSO Part of the Northeast Quarter (1/4) of the Southwest Quarter (1/4) of Section 27, Township 24 North, Range 9 East of the Fourth Principal Meridian, more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point 475 feet West and 150 feet South of the center of said Section 27; thence West parallel with the North line of said Quarter (1/4) Section, 200.1 feet thence South, 196.8 feet thence East 200.1 feet thence North 196.8 feet to the Place of Beginning; situated in the Township of Mt Morris, County of Ogle and State of Illinois.

D. A description of the improvements on the real estate is: Single family residence.

E. The time and place of sale are: January 21, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ogle County Public Safety Building, 202 S. First Street, Oregon, IL 61061.

F. The terms of the sale are: 10% cash or certified funds at time of sale and the balance by the close of business on January 21, 2022. Plaintiff assumes no responsibility for title expenses or closing costs.

G. Title will be conveyed subject to all general real estate taxes which are a lien upon the real estate, and subject to special assessments, if any, and easements and restrictions of record.

H. If the sale is set aside for any purpose, the purchaser at the time of sale shall be entitled only to a return on the deposit paid. The purchaser shall have no further recourse against the mortgagor, the mortgagee or the mortgagee's attorney.

Dated at Freeport, Illinois, this 8th day of December, 2021.

Brian E. VanVickle, Sheriff of Ogle County, Illinois This Notice prepared by: Stephen S. Schmelzle Attorney for Plaintiff 208 W. Stephenson Street, Suite 201 Freeport, IL 61032 (815) 235-1188 THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. December 24, 31, January 7, 2022 2021

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OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

VOLUNTEERS

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

14

REAL ESTATE LEGAL NOTICES IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 17TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS In the Matter of: JOANN E. BACHMAN, Deceased.

2021 P 111 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of JOANN BACHMAN of Oregon, Illinois.

Letters of Office were issued on December 17, 2021 to JOSEPH P. BACHMAN as Independent Executor whose attorneys are WILLIAMS McCARTHY LLP, 120 W. State St., P.O. Box 219, Rockford, IL 61105.

The estate will be administered without court supervision, unless under Section 28-4 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested person terminates independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Clerk.

Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court, Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S. 5th Street, Suite #300, Oregon, IL 61061 or with the representative, or both, on or before June 24, 2022, or within 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 Probate Act, whichever date is later.

Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above is barred.

Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.

JOSEPH P. BACHMAN Independent Executor Dec. 24, 31, 2021 & Jan. 7, 2022 STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF

REAL ESTATE LEGAL NOTICES

REAL ESTATE LEGAL NOTICES

OGLE In re the Estate of: ROGER P. JOHNSON, Deceased.

2021 P 113 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of ROGER P. JOHNSON. Letters of Office were issued on December 21, 2021, to ROGER P. DORRE, as Independent Executor, whose attorney is M. Thomas Suits, of the Law Offices of M. THOMAS SUITS, P.C., 114 West Mason Street, Polo, Illinois 61064.

Claims against the estate may be filed within six (6) months from the date of first publication, or within three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing or delivery is required

by Section 5/18-3 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 Circuit Clerk, Ogle County Judicial Center, 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061- or with the estate legal representative, or both. Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.

By: ROGER P. DORRE Independent Executor Law Offices of M. THOMAS SUITS, P.C. 114 West Mason Street Polo, IL 61064 (815) 946-2276 tom@suitslegal. com

OF: MARY L. WELLER, Deceased.

No. 2021 P 97 NOTICE TO CREDITORS All creditors of Mary L. Weller are hereby advised that she died Testate on or about June 14, 2021.

Letters of Office were issued on December 1, 2021, by the clerk of this Court to Cynthia Chapman, whose address is N1209 State Road 69, Monroe, WI 53566, as Independent Executor. The estate is being represented by Constance Augsburger, Attorney at Law, whose address is 301 E. Brayton Road, Mt. Morris, Illinois 61054, attorney of record.

Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Circuit Clerk, Ogle County Judicial Center, 106 S. 5th Street, Oregon, Illinois, 61061, or with the representative, or both, within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Circuit Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Executor and to the Attorney of Record within 10 days after it has been filed.

Dated this 10th day of December, 2021.

Cynthia Chapman Independent Executor Constance Augsburger Attorney at Law 301 E. Brayton RoadMt. Morris, IL 61054 (815)734-7772 augsburgerlaw1 @gmail.com

December 31, 2021, January 7, 13,

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF EDWARD C. HEAL, DECEASED CASE NO.

2022

STATE OF ILLINOISIN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE

December 24, 31, 2021, January 7, 2022

REAL ESTATE LEGAL NOTICES 2021 P 000103 PUBLICATION NOTICE INDEPENDENT ADMINISTRATION To: CREDITORS, CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES NOTICE IS GIVEN oof the death of Edward C. Heal who died on November 22, 2021, a resident of Ogle County, IL. The Representative for the Estate is Carey D. Kidd, whose attorney is James A. Stoddard, of Klein, Stoddard, Buck & Lewis, LLC, 2045 Aberdeen Court, Sycamore, Illinois 60178.

Claims against the estate may be filed on or before June 24, 2022. Claims against the estate may be filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court, 106 S. 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61068 or with the representative, or both. Any claim that is not filed within that period is barred.

Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.

On December 13, 2021 an Order Appointing Administrator was entered.

The estate will be administrated without Court supervision unless an interested party terminates independent administration by filing a petition to terminate under Section 28-4 of the Probate Act 755 ILCS 5/28-4.

Executor: /s/ Carey D. Kidd

LEGAL NOTICES P. Witmer, Sr. died on January 26, 2021, a resident of Las Vegas, Clark County, Nevada.

On December 9, 2021, Melvin P. Witmer, Jr. and Steven E. Witmer was appointed CoAdministrator of his estate. Co-Administrator Melvin P. Witmer, Jr.'s address is 1342 Calle Calma, Henderson, Nevada 89012. CoAdministrator Steven E. Witmer's address is 2307 Keaton Chase Drive, Fleming Island, Florida 32003. The attorneys for Co-Administrator Melvin P. Warne, Jr. are Maas Legal LLC, P.O. Box 277, Stillman Valley, Illinois 61084. The attorneys for Co-Administrator Steven E. Witmer are Kelly Flessner, of Dixon, Giesen & Flessner, 121 E. First Street, Dixon, Illinois 61021. Claims against the estate must be filed on or before June 16, 2022. Any claim not filed by that date will be barred.

Claim may be filed with the Probate Division of the Circuit Clerk Office, Ogle County Judicial Center, 106 S. 5th Street, Suite 300, Oregon, Illinois 61061; or with either of the Co-Administrators, Maas Legal LLC, or Dixon, Giesen & Flessner, or with all of them.

Copies of claims filed with the Probate Clerk's Office must be mailed or delivered to the Co-Administrators and their Attor-

LEGAL NOTICES neys, within ten (10) days after the Claim is filed.

Dated: December 15, 2021.

Debora S. Maas Melvin P. Witmer, Jr., Co-Administrator Kelly Flessner Steven E. Witmer, Co-Administrator MAAS LEGAL, LLC P.O. Box 277 Stillman Valley, Illinois 61084 815.751.1809 efile@debmaasle gal.com December 24, 31, 2021, January 7, 2022 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: THERESA M. WITMER, Deceased.

Case No. 2021 P 96 CLAIM NOTICE NOTICE: Theresa M. Witmer died on May 31, 2021, a resident of Las Vegas, Clark County, Nevada. On December 9, 2021, Melvin P. Witmer, Jr. and Steven E. Witmer were appointed Co-Administrators of her estate. Co-Administrator Melvin P. Witmer, Jr.'s address is 1342 Calle Calma, Henderson, Nevada 89012. CoAdministrator Steven E. Witmer's address is 2307 Keaton Chase Drive, Fleming Island, Florida 32003. The attorney for Co-Admin-

LEGAL NOTICES

y istrator Melvin P. Witmer, Jr. is Maas Legal LLC, P.O. Box 277, Stillman Valley, Illinois 61084. The attorney for Co-Administrator Steven E. Witmer is Kelly Flessner, of Dixon, Giesen & Flessner, 121 E. First Street, Dixon, Illinois 61021. Claims against the estate must be filed on or before June 16, 2022. Any claim not filed by that date will be barred.

Claims may be filed with the Probate Division of the Circuit Clerk Office, Ogle County Judicial Center, 106 S. 5th Street, Suite 300, Oregon, Illinois 61061; or with either of the CoAdministrators, Maas Legal LLC, or Dixon, Giesen & Flessner, or with all of them.

Copies of claims filed with the Probate Clerk's Office must be mailed or delivered to the Co-Administrators and their Attorneys, within ten (10) days after the Claim is filed.

Dated: December 15, 2021.

Debora S. Maas Melvin P. Witmer, Jr., Co-Administrator Kelly Flessner Steven E. Witmer, Co-Administrator MAAS LEGAL, LLC P.O. Box 277 Stillman Valley, Illinois 61084 815.751.1809 efile@debmaasle gal.com December 24, 31, 2021, January 7, 2022

December 24, 31, 2021, January 7, 2022 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: MELVIN P. WITMER, SR., Deceased.

Case No. 2021 P 95 CLAIM NOTICE NOTICE: Melvin

CALL 815-220-6942

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

To: SPF Development Corp; Jeffery J. Milburn; Occupant; Sierra Leek; Nikki Principato, MD; Occupant, 2nd Floor; City of Oregon; occupants or persons in actual possession of real estate hereinafter described; County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois; unknown owners and parties interested in said real estate.

TAX DEED NO. 2019TX1 Filed October 20, 2021 TAKE NOTICE County of Ogle Date Premises Sold November 5, 2019 Certificate No. 2018-00143 Sold for General Taxes of (year) 2018Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special assessment number (Not Applicable) Warrant No. (Not Applicable) Inst. No. (Not Applicable) THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES Property located at 125 South 4TH Street, Oregon, Illinois Legal Description or Property Index No. 16-03-165-037 This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on April 18, 2022.

The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the county clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.

This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before April 18, 2022.

This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County located at the Ogle County Courthouse, in courtroom 302, 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, Illinois, on June 2, 2022 at 9:00 a.m.

You may be present at this hearing but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time.

YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY Redemption can be made at any time on or before April 18, 2022 by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Joliet, Illinois.

For further information contact the County Clerk Address: 105 South 5th Street, Suite 104, Oregon, IL 61061 Telephone: (815) 732-1110 Ripple Creek Investors of Chicago LLC Purchaser or Assignee Dated: October 20, 2021 Kaplan Saunders Valente & Beninati, LLP Genevieve DanielsARDC#: 6215939 Attorney for Petitioner 500 N. Dearborn, 2nd Floor Chicago, IL 60654 Phone-312-755-5700 gdaniels@kaplan saunders.com #18-12338 December 17, 24, 31, 2021

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

December 24, 31, January 7, 2022 2021

OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS UNION SAVINGS BANK, Plaintiff, VS. ELIZABETH A. BRODERICK, UNKNOWN OWNERS, UNKNOWN TENANTS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendant.

NO. 21-CH-27 PUBLIC NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE Public notice is hereby given that in pursuance of the decree entered in this Court in the above-entitled cause on the 3rd day of December, 2021, I, Brian E. VanVickle, Sheriff of Ogle County, or such other deputy as may be sitting in his stead, shall sell at public venue to the highest and best bidder, the following described lands and premises described in said decree, or so much thereof as may be necessary to realize the amount due to satisfy said decree, upon the following terms and conditions: A. The name, address, and telephone of the person to contact for information regarding the real estate is: Matthew Bowen, Union Savings Bank, 223 W. Stephenson Street, Freeport, IL 61032, (815) 235-0800.

B. The common address of said property is: 505 W. Hitt Street, Mt. Morris, IL 61054 C. The legal description of the property is: Part of the Northeast Quarter (1/4) of the Southwest Quarter (1/4) of Section 27, Township 24 North, Range 9 East of the Fourth Principal Meridian, more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point 471.1 feet West and 10 feet South of the centerline of said Section 27; running thence South, 140 feet thence West 204 feet thence North, 140 feet thence East, 204 feet to the Place of Beginning; situated in the Township of Mt Morris, County of Ogle and State of Illinois.

EXCEPTING THEREFROM that portion deeded to the People of the State of Illinois

by Warranty Deed recorded July 22, 2002, as Document No. 0209332, described as follows: A parcel of land in the Northeast Quarter (1/4) of the Southwest Quarter (174) of Section 27, Township 24 North, Range 9 East of the Fourth Principal Meridian, Ogle County, Illinois, described as follows: Commencing at the Northwest corner of the Southwest Quarter (1/4) of said Section 27; thence Easterly, on the North line of said Southwest Quarter (1/4), said line having a tearing of North 88 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East a distance of 1972.46 feet to the Northeast comer of the premises conveyed to Barry J. Rittenhouse and Donna M Rittenhouse from Nelson H. Rittenhouse by Quit Claim Deed recorded May 9, 1996, as Document No 9604292 in the Recorder's Office of Ogle County, thence southerly, on. the East line of said premises so conveyed, said line having a bearing of South 1 degree 31 minutes 44 seconds East a distance of 1000 feet to the Point of Beginning of the hereinafter described parcel of land; thence continuing Southerly, on the last described course, a distance of 2024 feet thence Easterly, on a line having a bearing of North 82 degrees 30 minutes 00 seconds East a distance of 40,30 feet to the Southerly Right-of-Way line of a Public highway, designated FA. Route 17, (IL 64); thence Easterly, on said Southerly Right.of-Way line, said line having a bearing of North 87 degrees 55 minutes 37 seconds East a distance of 164,00 feet to the East line of the premises so conveyed to Elizabeth A. Broderick and Michael F. Broderick from Elizabeth A. Young n/k/a Elizabeth A. Broderick by Quit Claim Deed recorded November 11, 1997, as Document No. 9709717 in said Recorder's Office; thence Northerly, on the East line of said premises so conveyed, said line having a bearing of North 1 degree 31 minutes 44 seconds West a distance of 1490 feet to the Northeast corner of said premises so conveyed; thence Westerly, on the North line of said premises so conveyed, said line having a bearing of South 88 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds West a distance of 204.08 feet to the Point of Beginning; situated in the Township of Mt Morris, County of Ogle and State of Illinois.

ALSO Part of the Northeast Quarter (1/4) of the Southwest Quarter (1/4) of Section 27, Township 24 North, Range 9 East of the Fourth Principal Meridian, more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point 475 feet West and 150 feet South of the center of said Section 27; thence West parallel with the North line of said Quarter (1/4) Section, 200.1 feet thence South, 196.8 feet thence East 200.1 feet thence North 196.8 feet to the Place of Beginning; situated in the Township of Mt Morris, County of Ogle and State of Illinois.

D. A description of the improvements on the real estate is: Single family residence.

E. The time and place of sale are: January 21, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ogle County Public Safety Building, 202 S. First Street, Oregon, IL 61061.

F. The terms of the sale are: 10% cash or certified funds at time of sale and the balance by the close of business on January 21, 2022. Plaintiff assumes no responsibility for title expenses or closing costs.

G. Title will be conveyed subject to all general real estate taxes which are a lien upon the real estate, and subject to special assessments, if any, and easements and restrictions of record.

H. If the sale is set aside for any purpose, the purchaser at the time of sale shall be entitled only to a return on the deposit paid. The purchaser shall have no further recourse against the mortgagor, the mortgagee or the mortgagee's attorney.

Dated at Freeport, Illinois, this 8th day of December, 2021.

Brian E. VanVickle, Sheriff of Ogle County, Illinois This Notice prepared by: Stephen S. Schmelzle Attorney for Plaintiff 208 W. Stephenson Street, Suite 201 Freeport, IL 61032 (815) 235-1188 THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR.

15

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, Dec 31, 2021

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

16

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$12,999*

54K Miles

GM8714

*oac 78 months 3.5% plus tax title and license

*oac 72 months 3.5% plus tax title and license

54 NISSANS! Starting at $199 per month*

63 TRUCKS IN STOCK, READY TO WORK FOR YOU!

Rogues, Pathfinders, Muranos, Sentras, Altimas, and Maximas

GM10475A

*oac 72 months 3.5% plus tax, title, and license

RAY SMITH GENERAL MANAGER

RON DAISY GENERAL MANAGER GREG MAJESKI OWNER ROBERT DRAKE REGIONAL MANAGER SM-ST1929237

DAN DANREITER NICK MCCLANAHAN

1701 E 4th St, Sterling

(815) 625-9600

JOHN WATTS

GONZO RAMOS

VINNEY COOK

1010 7th St., Rochelle

(815) 562-9000

MIKE MORGAN

SCOTT CHASM GENERAL MANAGER

LEON MEALING

TYLOR BONNELL

849 North Galena Ave, Dixon

(815) 288-9600

*Plus tax, title, license & doc fee. Payments based on 3.99% APR financing for 60 to 84 months with approved credit. Photos for illustration only. Dealer not liable for errors.