Issuu

Postal Customer

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE NORTHWEST ILLINOIS’ NEWS SOURCE • prairieadvocate.com

ECRWSS PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #440 STERLING, IL

Wednesday, March 30, 2022

POWERLIFTER Photo supplied

Eastland High School powerlifter Paul Sturtevant squatted 410 lbs, bench pressed 265 lbs, and deadlifted 475 lbs while competing in the 220 lbs weight class. Story on page 8. Vol. 81 • No. 44 One Section • 16 Pages

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

2 OBITUARIES

TERRENCE ‘TERRY’ DERDZINSKI

HAZEL DELORES (LEPIEN) DAEHLER

Hazel was blessed with a soprano voice and sang at many weddings, funerals and other church functions. She was also soloist for the Born: October 13, 1925 in Harford, WI Messiah and The Seven Last Words. Died: March 18, 2022 in Morrison, IL She was active in the First Lutheran Church serving as the first primary Sunday School Hazel Delores (LepSuperintendent, literature secretary, Choir ien) Daehler passed into eternity Saturday, Director of Junior and Senior choirs, a member of the care team and was organist for 45 March 18, 2022 at years. She also helped make many quilts for Resthave Nursing Lutheran World Relief. Hazel enjoyed gardenCenter in Morrison, ing, sewing, reading, and making raisin pies Illinois. She was born on October 13, 1925 in for church functions. She was preceded in death by her parents, Hartford, Wisconsin, the daughter of Arthur J. husband, daughter Sara, two brothers and and Sarah Schauer Lepien. She was baptized December 6th, 1925 and confirmed in 1938 in one sister. Hazel leaves behind to cherish her memothe Evangelical Church. ries, her son John of Lanark; daughter Ruth She attended elementary and high school in Hartford and graduated in 1943. Hazel attend- (Matt) Siemert of Morrison; two granddaughters, Lynn Siemert and Jessica (Dan) Payette; ed North Central College in Naperville and graduated in 1947. She spent one year as the son-in-law Dave Merchant; sister-in-law Joyce Daehler;many nieces and nephews; and Christian Education Director in Johnstown, her church family. Pennsylvania. She then returned to North A funeral service will be held 10:30 am Central College to earn enough credits to Thursday, March 24, 2022 at the First teach music, which then led her to Chadwick where she taught music in the Chadwick Pub- Lutheran Church in Chadwick. Visitation will be prior to the service from 9:30 – 10:30 am lic School for a year. Thursday, March 24 at the Church. Burial Hazel married Arlowe Daehler on June will be in the Chadwick Cemetery. You may 11, 1950 and they settled on the Daehler family farm; later purchasing it from Arlowe’s watch the service on the First Lutheran Church, Chadwick facebook page. Memorials parents and receiving the designation of a Centennial Farm. After their children were in may be given in Hazel’s memory to benefit school, she taught private kindergarten for 10 the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chadwick. years in Chadwick.

DOROTHY JEAN (STONE) FINIFROCK Born: October 9, 1933 Died: February 15, 2020 Dorothy Jean (Stone) Finifrock, passed away February 15, 2020, at 88 years old. Everyone knew her as Jean. She was born October 9, 1933, near Milledgeville, Illinois to John and Hazel (Slifer) Stone. She was the oldest of six children followed by Evelyn (Ames) Schryver (deceased), Robert (Diane) Stone (deceased), Ruby (Roy) Warfield, Lois(Walter) Carr (deceased), Linda (Scott) Lawson. She married her high school sweetheart on December 31, 1951. They farmed a 290-acre farm North of Lanark, Illinois that belonged to Roger’s dad for 20 years. Roger then went

into the insurance business for 20 years and Jean was the financial manager of the insurance agency they owned while living in the Freeport, Illinois area. She had 4 children all born in Freeport, Daniel, Bradley, Peggy Jo (deceased), and Ramona. After retiring from the insurance business they moved to a 10 acre farm near Decatur, TN in 1991 where she was active in the Meigs County Ministries Thrift store. She and Roger then moved to Lancaster, California in 2014 to be near son Bradley. Jean was active in the church wherever she lived, the Church of the Brethren in both Lanark and Freeport then at the Methodist Church in Ten Mile, TN and in Lancaster, CA. She loved to read her bible and told stories of going to church with her grandmother when she was a little girl. A Celebration of Life for Jean will be April 23rd, 2022, at 2:00 pm at the Heritage Center in Lanark, IL.

NEWS BRIEF Clothing drive underway for Ukrainian refugees

Plans are underway to ship gently used clothing to help the refugees of Ukraine. Clothing may be dropped off at the old Ace Hardware building next to the Sunshine Restaurant at 502 Main St., Savanna. Items may be dropped off from 9 a.m.

to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 2, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 3. If possible, bag or box men’s, women’s and children’s clothing separately with a label to identify the contents. Volunteers are needed to pack the clothing on those days. For information, call Betty Brinkmeier 815-291-0411.

River Grove. In Addison he also worked with the Village and the Jaycees. Born: August 25, 1938 in Chicago, IL With the same dedication that he spent Died: February 27, 2022 in Lake Carroll, IL in his career, in retirement Terry spent his talents helping to make his community of Terrence “Terry” Derdzinski, loving Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great-grandfa- Lake Carroll a better place to live. He was on ther, passed away Sunday, February 27, 2022 the Infrastructure Committee and they called him the “Road Czar.” He was proud to be a at home in Lake Carroll. The last chapter of Terry’s life went just the way he would have part of the group that built the Lake Carroll Swimming Pool. wanted, living at home with the love of his Terry and Dolores are members of St. life, Dolores. Terry was born August 25, 1938 in Chicago, Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church of Freeport. He was also a Knight of Columbus member. the first child of Edmund and Genevieve Wherever Terry and Dolores lived, they be(Gil) Derdzinski. The 1940s and 50s were came part of the community and contributed an exciting time to grow up in Chicago, and to making it a better place. Terry saw all kinds of possibilities as he Terry will be dearly missed by his wife, Dograduated from St. Ignatus High School with lores of Lake Carroll; thre sons, Alan (Debra) the Class of 1956. He attended DeVry Tech Derdzinski of Belvidere, John Derdzinski of and specialized in Mechanical Engineering. On May 25, 1963, Terry married Dolores Marie Freeport and Michael Derdzinski of Freeport; Bagrowski at Blessed Agnes Catholic Church, three grandchildren, Arron (Alli) Derdzinski, Chicago. They celebrated fifty-eight years of Ashley Mae and Alec Derdzinski; and two great-grandchildren, Leo and Rylie Mae. Terry marriage and raised three sons, Alan, John is preceded in death by both parents and a and Michael. Terry’s career in technology involved work- sister and brother-in-law, Carol Jean (Louis) Sobek. ing with the flip-phone, highway emergency A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am phones, and police dispatch consoles. He Friday, April 8 at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic worked 32 years for Motorola, moving his Church in Freeport, Illinois, followed by a family from Addison, Lake In The Hills to Fox luncheon gathering to celebrate Terry’s life.

GINGER ELLEN LAW Ginger Ellen Law, 78, of Mt. Carroll, IL, passed on March 18, 2022 at Morrison Hospital. Arrangements entrusted to Law Jones Funeral Home, Mt. Carroll, IL. Additional information: lawjonesfuneralhome.com.

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE For information on classified advertisements, display advertisements or billing please dial: For information815-625-3600 on classified advertisements, Fax 815-625-9390 display advertisements or billing, please call: For editorial833-584-NEWS please dial: 815-625-3600 www.prairieadvocate.com Fax 815-625-9390 For editorial, please call: 833-584-NEWS www.prairieadvocate.com Publisher .......................................... Jennifer Heintzelman Circulation ........................................................ Abbie Clark Editor ........................................................... Earleen Hinton Advertising Sales ................................... Angelica Martinez The Prairie Advocate is published weekly by Sauk Valley Media, a division of B.F. Shaw Printing Co. Member of Shaw Newspapers and the Audit Bureau of Circulations. The publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of errors in adver tisements beyond the amount paid for space actually occupied by that portion of the advertisement in which the error occurred - whether such error is due to the negligence of the publisher’s staff or otherwise - and there shall be no liability for non-insertion of any advertisement beyond the amount paid for such advertisement.

PEARL CITY – Ben Bremmer, a member of the Pearl City FFA Chapter of the Illinois Association FFA, has been selected as the District FFA Star in Agricultural Placement. Illinois FFA recognizes four outstanding FFA members in each of five FFA Districts in Illinois. Each is honored with the District Star Award for outstanding accomplishments in FFA and Agricultural Education. The District Star Awards – including the Star Farmer, Star in Agribusiness, Star in Agricultural Placement and Star in Agriscience – recognize FFA members who demonstrate outstanding agricultural skills and competencies through record keeping, leadership and scholastic achievement. Supervised Agricultural Experiences, referred to as SAEs, allow students to learn by doing by either owning and operating an agricultural business, working or serving

an internship at an agriculture-based business or conducting an agriculture-based scientific experiment and reporting results. Bremmer also was selected as the District FFA Proficiency Winner in Diversified Ag Production. Illinois FFA recognizes students in 47 areas based on their workbased learning, also known as their SAE. FFA members who demonstrate outstanding agricultural skills and competencies through record keeping, leadership and scholastic achievement may be considered for this award. Bremmer was selected as the District 1 winner for District Star in Agricultural Placement and in the area of Diversified Ag Production by a committee of agricultural industry representatives and teachers knowledgeable in this work-based area. He was eligible to compete in the State FFA Awards Selection process, which took place March 26 in Decatur. He also

was chosen as the chapter and section awardee for Star in Agricultural Placement and the Proficiency Area of Diversified Ag Production. Bremmer has been involved in the following other Agricultural Education and FFA activities: Pearl City FFA chapter president, Section 1 FFA vice president, dairy cattle judging, soil judging, Dairy Quiz Bowl, District Star Conference attendee, leadership training school facilitator and Greenhand workshop facilitator among other events. Kristen Gallagher is the agricultural science teacher and FFA adviser at Pearl City Jr./Sr. High School. Bremmer will receive plaques for his accomplishments. The plaques are made possible by gifts by individuals, businesses, corporations and organizations through the Illinois Foundation FFA. Ben Bremmer is the son of Chad and Deb Bremmer of Pearl City. Ben Bremmer holds his two FFA awards.

Now Available s g in d d e W

Students recognized by DAR chapter

Carroll County

Milledgeville: Matthew Thomas Lapp, son of Tracy Lapp Matthew enjoys volunteering – helping out at his church, the local food pantry and tutoring. He has been a member of the National Honor Society since he was a sophomore. He participates in Drama Club and plans to further his education at Sauk Valley Community College, majoring in criminal justice. Eastland: Natalie Elizabeth Reifsteck, daughter of Dan and Katie Reifsteck Active in sports, music and community service, Natalie has been inducted into the National Honor Society. As a member of Girl Scouts, she began her “cookies4soldiers” program in seventh

grade. She raises donations for cookies and sends care packages to troops overseas and serving stateside. She plans on working in health care or cyber security. West Carroll: Did not participate this year.

S AU K VA L L E Y

Stephenson County

Pearl City: Madilyn Mae Diddens, daughter of Laura and Dana Diddens Madilyn is involved with the Servant Leadership program, an honor roll student and helps out at the food pantry for both church and school. She has participated on the academic team and Quiz Bowl. Her work history includes detasseling corn, Rafters in Lena and the village of Pearl City. She plans to attend Highland Community College and get an associate degree in accounting. Lena-Winslow: Ava Grace Randecker, daughter of Timothy and Summer Randecker Ava enjoys the outdoors, hikes, running, swimming and rock climbing. She plays basketball and is on the track team. Ava has helped raise funds for Hoo Haven Wildlife Rescue and for several years has run a 5K for breast cancer awareness in Peoria. She is active in her church community and youth ministry program. She is interested in biology and science and aims to pursue a career in that field after high school.

PUBLICATION

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 440 Sterling, IL 61081

2022/23 EDITION

Above this cover: Page 4

SM-ST1953137

DAR Regent Connie Foster of Carroll Jo Daviess Chapter 5015-IL District II submitted student recognitions in Carroll and Stephenson counties. The DAR Good Citizen Award is intended to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship. It recognizes and rewards individuals who possess good citizenship qualities of dependability, service, leadership and patriotism in their homes, schools and communities. Students are selected by their teachers and peers. Here are the student recognitions for Carroll and Stephenson counties:

Photo provided

To request your FREE copy, simply call us at (815) 632-2566 or email your requests and address to: knull@saukvalley.com

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

Pearl City’s Ben Bremmer receives FFA awards

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

Illinois Attorney General files lawsuit over alleged contamination at 3M’s Cordova plant Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul has filed a lawsuit against 3M alleging that the company’s improper handling of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – also known as “forever chemicals” for their persistence in the environment – resulted in ongoing contamination at and around its facility in Cordova. Raoul’s lawsuit, filed in Rock Island County Circuit Court, alleges that 3M’s negligent operations at its facility in Cordova have resulted in significant levels of PFAS contamination at and around the facility, which is located on the banks of the Mississippi River. The lawsuit further alleges that despite being aware of the health and environmental hazards connected to PFAS, 3M has downplayed negative impacts. The Attorney General’s office is partnering on the case with a team of outside counsel who have been designated as special assistant attorneys general. “For decades, 3M has been aware of the dangers of PFAS, or ‘forever chemicals.’ Despite scientific evidence generated by its own research, 3M downplayed or denied the health and environmental hazards connected to PFAS, and even promoted these toxic chemicals as being safe to manufacture,” Raoul said. “3M must be held accountable for the contamination its operations in Cordova have caused. This lawsuit is an important step toward accountability and protecting the surrounding environment and public health.” 3M has owned and operated its Cordova facility since about 1970. It is one of three facilities where 3M manufactures a number of chemical products including adhesives, resins, fluorochemicals and other specialty chemicals. The lawsuit alleges that 3M was aware as early as the 1960s that PFAS are toxic and do not biodegrade in the environment. Further 3M testing

3M must be held accountable for the contamination its operations in Cordova have caused.” Kwame Raoul, Illinois Attorney General throughout the 1970s confirmed the toxicity of PFAS to aquatic wildlife, including fish species. Despite that, 3M continued to manufacture, discharge and dispose of PFAS at the Cordova facility, while it promoted PFAS as being safe to manufacture and use. On its website, 3M continues to deny the adverse health and environmental impacts of PFAS. “Illinois EPA is working closely with the Attorney General’s office to provide necessary evidence on the extent of PFAS contamination that has impacted ground and surface waters,” Illinois EPA Director John J. Kim said. “Holding 3M responsible for their actions is important as we continue to assist in this process to ensure the contamination is addressed properly by the facility.” The lawsuit alleges that 3M’s Cordova operations’ specifically leaked and spilled PFAS and PFAS-containing waste have resulted in significant levels of PFAS contamination. Sampling conducted by 3M, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has confirmed the presence of contaminated groundwater under and around the facility, as well as the Mississippi River. Testing done at one groundwater monitoring well in 2020 showed PFAS levels several thousand parts per trillion higher than proposed state standards. In addition, 3M discharges more than 8 million gallons of contaminated wastewater directly into the Mississippi River each day, and wastewater sampling has shown levels of toxic

Reserve your ad space now!

Deadlin Thursd e for all adverti sing Call us ays @ 12 :00 No is today — (815) 6 25-3 on 600

PFAS in the wastewater. PFAS are human-made, synthetic chemicals that do not exist naturally in the environment. PFAS are highly toxic to humans and animals, and they are extremely resistant to degradation in the environment, which is why PFAS are known as “forever chemicals.” PFAS contaminants may be linked to serious adverse health effects in humans and animals, including increased serum cholesterol, immune dysregulation, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and kidney and testicular cancers. Exposure to certain types of PFAS is also associated with low birth weight in babies, suppressed immune system response, dyslipidemia, impaired kidney function and delayed onset of menstruation. Raoul’s lawsuit seeks to require 3M to address PFAS contamination and protect public health and the environment. The lawsuit also seeks civil penalties of up to $50,000 for each violation of the Illinois Environmental Protec-

tion Act and associated regulations, and additional civil penalties of $10,000 for each day the violations continue. In addition, the lawsuit seeks damages arising from PFAS contamination and injury of natural resources. Division Chief Matthew Dunn, Bureau Chief Stephen Sylvester and Deputy Bureau Chief Gerald Karr, along with Senior Assistant Attorney General Ellen O’Laughlin and Assistant Attorney General Karen Howard are handling the case for Raoul’s Environmental Bureau. In addition, attorneys representing DiCello Levitt Gutzler LLC, Keating Muething & Klekamp PLL, and Fields PLLC will co-prosecute the case as special assistant attorneys general. According to the 3M website, the Cordova plant makes a variety of specialty chemicals and adhesives. “We blend, react and purify hundreds of products using a wide variety of technologies throughout the plant.

See LAWSUIT, page 5

TOLL FREE (866) 493-2300

110 W Carroll, Lanark 815-493-2323 24490 Payne, Shannon 815-864-2390 Amy Barnes, Designated Managing Broker www.BarnesRealtyInc.com

LAKE CARROLL - $149,900 2.99 Acre Waterfront Lot Part Wooded/Part Clear with Deeded Slip

LANARK - $90,000 1432 sq. ft., 3 BR, 1 Bath, 0.16 Acre Lot, 1 Car Garage

MILLEDGEVILLE - $40,000 2281 sq. ft., 4 BR, 1.5 Baths, 0.25 Acre Lot, 3 Car Garage

MILLEDGEVILLE - $89,000 2092 sq. ft., 4 BR, 1.5 Baths, 1.50 Acre Lot, Rural Setting

STOCKTON - $28,500 2.68 Acre Building Lot, Great Views, West of Stockton

THOMSON - $7,900 0.30 Acre Treed Corner Lot, Four Mile & Squire Circle

THOMSON - $8,700 0.51 Acre Wooded Building Lot Near Mississippi River

THOMSON - $10,800 0.68 Acre Building Lot on Pheasant Dr, Lynwood Estates

THOMSON - $12,400 0.51 Acre Treed Corner Building Lot, 4 Mile & Squire Circle

CARROLL COUNTY FARM BUREAU

If you missed out on the Rules of the Road seminar on trucking regulations, we have the new books from the Illinois Farm Bureau. The booklet talks about medical card needs, CDL requirements, plate requirements, etc. Stop by and pick one up. Speaking of road rules, it is the year to offer a defensive driving course. Unfortunately, we have not found a person to teach the class in person at this time. Most classes are offered online, but we know those who want to take the course are not fans of online classes. An online class completes the requirement. I will keep you posted if we have an in-person class. Are you over the age of 65 and interested in social activities? We have a group that meets monthly. Sometimes they play games, sometimes they have speakers and sometimes they go places. They meet each month on the second Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. In April, they will be meeting Wednesday, April 13. They will hear from Carroll County Sheriff Ryan Kloepping and enjoy a potluck. If you are interested in joining or looking for more information, give me a call at 815-2443001.

AT A GLANCE Chastity Welch ••• Farming is a challenging and sometimes dangerous business. Weather, machinery, logistics and livestock can cause difficulties within a day’s work. Yet these can pale next to the concerns and stress that a farmer carries inside. Farmers are among the most likely to die by suicide, compared with other occupations, according to a 2022 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The study also found that suicide rates overall had grown by 40% in less than two decades. A new support system is available to help the Illinois farming community. It’s as close as your phone. A helpline – 1-833-FARM-SOS, which is 1-833-327-6767 – will connect farmers to health professionals and services as part of a new statewide program. The Farm Family Resource Initia-

1202 W. 4TH ST. (RT. 2) STERLING, IL

GAMING CAFE

Carroll County Farm Bureau members can place up to two free classified ads per week, with a limit of 250 characters per ad (not including spaces). Ads are limited to personal or farm items for sale/wanted to buy, or farm labor or services available or wanted. No ads for the sale or rental of real estate, garage sales or commercial businesses will be accepted. To place an ad, call the Farm Bureau office at 815-244-3001 by 3 p.m. Thursday to get your ad in the following week’s paper. The Farm Bureau office compiles the ads and Shaw Media runs them in the Prairie Advocate as a courtesy in conjunction with the column. Shaw Media is not responsible for the ads and any errors or corrections need to be made to the Farm Bureau office. For Sale: Mixed seasoned firewood, 815-225-7824 For Sale: Big round bales of net wrapped clover and grass hay mix, 815-225-7824 For Sale: Hay and straw, rounds, large squares, and small squares, corn stalk bales, 815-499-0463 For Sale: Hay, large rounds, net wrapped, stored inside, no rain, 815-244-9223. For Sale: JD CX15 batwing mower in exc condition, stored inside, small 1000 PTO, $13,500, 815-821-3397. For Sale: Brown double recliner with center console, very good, $100 obo 815-821-2172. tive is a joint program of the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and the Illinois Department of Agriculture. SIU’s Center for Rural Health and Social Services Development has created a statewide network of resources to address the mental health needs of the farming and agricultural

workforce. In addition to the 24-hour helpline, farmers can access free webinars, blogs and trainings on psychological signs of stress at the website siumed. org/farm. So if you know of someone who is struggling during these times, please pass the information along.

• LAWSUIT

Construction on 3M Cordova began in 1969 and production operations started in 1970. “Today, the plant occupies over a half million square feet of manufacturing and warehouse space. Employees are highly skilled and experienced in their fields,” the website said. Retired Quad Cities Waterkeeper Art Norris of Silvis responded to the lawsuit against the company by saying: “I could say much here. But honestly, I feel that more prominent people have been saying this to us for years and the majority of us have not listened. Greed over need is now the American way sadly. “Shame should be on those for what they have done to our children’s future over money. But the blame is on many of us also – reason being for turning a blind eye to the pollution that exists around us daily and goes on unabated.”

Continued from page 4

(ACROSS FROM DAIRY QUEEN)

815.632.3521

JOIN OUR BIRTHDAY CLUB TO RECEIVE PROMOTIONS, WIN FREE PLAY & PRIZES IN OUR EXCLUSIVE DRAWINGS!

Must be 21 or older to game. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).

Ultimately, these products are used by other 3M manufacturing facilities or go into industrial, commercial and consumer applications around the world for a broad range of customers,” the website said. “3M Cordova is a hightech, two-factory facility consisting of electronic materials and internal materials manufacturing. We supply products to over 30 divisions within 3M.” A short list of the products made include Acrylate Monomers, Acrylate Polymer Adhesives, Solid and Liquid Epoxy Resins, Low Adhesion Backsizes, 3M™ Novec™ Engineered Fluids, 3M™ Novec™ 1230 Fire Protection Fluid, Performance Fluids, Specialty Gases and Battery Electrolytes.

Neighborhood Office Solutions

COPIER • PRINTER • FAX Sales and Service

Jeff Steve Email

(815) 821-5699 (815) 541-7749 neighborhoodoffice@mchsi.com m

“A Local Company providing ser vice i and d a smile” il ” 218 W. Exchange St. • Freeport, IL 61032

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

Farming is challenging and sometimes dangerous

New director has Whiteside Senior Center buzzing with new activities By KATHLEEN A. SCHULTZ

Learn more

kschultz@shawmedia.com

STERLING – Like crocuses through the spring snow, colorful new activities are popping up all over the Whiteside County Senior Center. Susie Welch, the former Foster Grandparent program director at Tri-County Opportunities Council in Rock Falls, is the center’s new director. In just three months at the helm, she has shepherded numerous new activities, which is bringing membership back up. The center, 1207 W. Ninth St., was closed to in-person visits during the pandemic, providing what services it could, such as caregiver assistance, over the phone only. Now “all our activities are back and going strong,” Welch said, noting the isolation caused by COVID-19 restrictions was particularly hard on the area’s senior population. Those who haven’t been to the senior center, or haven’t been there in a while, will be pleasantly surprised by all there is to do. Many services

The Whiteside County Senior Center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Although the center offers services to those 60 and older, anyone can join – the cost is $25 a year – and most activities are available to anyone, usually free of charge. Programs, services and information can be found on the senior center’s new and improved website, https://wc-seniorcenter.org/, and on its Facebook page. Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@shawmedia.com

New Whiteside County Senior Center Director Susie Welch talks about updates to the technology center. and activities are available to anyone – not just the 60-andolder set – and are free. Among the center’s offerings are the new lunch service, provided by Golden Wheels of Freeport. It’s the same agency that delivers meals regionwide. At the senior center, lunch is served from 11 a.m. to noon Monday through Thursday. The cost is $3, and because Golden Wheels runs the service, diners can pay for their meals with a LINK card. “I’ve tried them. They are

tasty,” Welch said. “I found it to be very filling.” There also is a Breakfast Club at which the center’s Yvonne Jones will meet with seniors the last Friday of the month at a rotating slate of restaurants. “Eating alone is not fun,” Welch said, noting this will not only help seniors socialize but also will be good for the businesses that are chosen. She also wants to help center users keep up with the latest technology. With the help of Surf Broad-

Now Available THE

TASTE

Your Guide to Dining Locally

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

PA I D

Permit No. 440 Sterling, IL 61081

Take part for a chance to win your share of

$1,400 in local restaurant gift cards!

See pages 5 & 6 for details. Photo provided by Triple P BBQ in Dixon

A PUBLICATION

11/19/21 3:37 PM

To request your FREE copy, simply call us at (815) 632-2566 or email your requests and address to: knull@saukvalley.com SVM_The Taste_113021.indd 1

SM-ST1964978

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

SM-ST1966411

band reps, the center has been offering sessions on how to stream online. The next free class is at 6 p.m. March 30. In addition, IT students from the Whiteside Area Career Center have been spending Fridays at the center giving tech advice. They’ll be doing that through April, when the school year ends. Free tax preparation services also are available. Preparers are volunteers and are trained free of charge. Most work only a few hours a day a few days a week, and while this year is covered, the center is trying to line up volunteers for next year.

What else? Well, the center now provides space for a Thursday afternoon jam session where musicians can get together from 1 to 4 p.m. and play or just hang out with other musicians. The center has a piano; participants also are invited to bring their instruments. There’s a once-a-week Bible study session, yoga, line dancing is starting in April, as is a new walking club, where seniors can chat while doing laps around the center in a safe space and out of the weather.

See SENIOR CENTER, page 7

MOUNT CARROLL – The Friends of Timber Lake Playhouse, an organization that exists to assist the playhouse with various needs, recently presented a check to the playhouse. FTLP works as a fundraising arm, but also does many volunteer jobs around the theater – ushering, landscaping, working the gift shop and helping make the resident company feel more at home are just some of the opportunities that exist. To join, call the playhouse at 815-244-2048 or email admin@timberlakeplayhouse.org. Information about the organization can be found on TLP’s website at www.timberlakeplayhouse.org. Information for Timber Lake events is available online at www.timberlakeplayhouse.org or by calling the box oﬃce at 815-244-2035. The box office is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

• SENIOR CENTER

Continued from page 6 Welch has started a little bringone-take-one library, and also is showing classic movies once a month. That’s all on top of the regular activities, including pool, cards and crafts. Among the services the center offers is a food pantry. One of the first projects Welch ini-

tiated was converting a closet into the pantry, which had been stationed outside in the Whiteside County Public Transportation bus garage. Once a week staff would spend three hours dragging the food indoors, then three hours putting it back. This will eliminate that hassle, Welch said. Once the closet conversion is finished, the pantry will be open once a week for two hours – a time that still is being determined – and on an as-needed basis should a senior have

Friends of Timber Lake Playhouse present a check to the playhouse. Pictured from left to right are Brian Brinkmeier; Deonne Titus; president of Friends of Timber Lake Playhouse; Dan Danielowski, TLP executive director; Joe Titus, TLP treasurer; and Eloise Pierce. Photo provided

a food emergency such as a refrigerator conking out, she said. The center also is working on a plan to create a mobile food pantry that will use the center’s minivan and volunteer vehicles to take food out into outlying county communities such as Morrison, Erie and Prophetstown. “That’s our goal,” Welch said. Donations are gratefully accepted for the pantry, but money is better than actual food because staff can buy

food at greatly discounted prices from the food bank, she said. Welch’s goal is to make the senior center as vibrant, social and useful as possible, not only with seniors but for the whole community, she said. “The senior center is a great place where people can come and feel safe, feel like they belong and enjoy life,” Welch said. As for her senior members, “we want to be a blessing to them during their enjoyable years.”

This is us...

H E AT I N G A N D A I R C O N D I T I O N I N G

815.625.HVAC | loescherhvac.com SM-ST1968072

Morrison IL ● 815.772.4021

7 PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

Friends of Timber Lake Playhouse present check to TLP

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

IHS POWERLIFTING ASSOCIATION

Eastland powerlifters compete at Warrior Regional Eastland High School powerlifters Paul Sturtevant, Cody Cole, and Natalie Colehour competed at the IHSPLA (Illinois High School Powerlifting Association) Warrior Regional on March 19. The event was hosted by McHenry Community High School in McHenry. Sturtevant, a senior football player who has also wrestled, participated in track, and currently plays for the baseball team, squatted 410 lbs, bench pressed 265 lbs, and deadlifted 475 lbs while competing in the 220l bs weight class. “These all represented personal records for him. Junior Cody Cole, a member of the EPC football team, competed in the 165 lbs weight class and squatted 410 lbs, bench pressed 225 lbs, and dead lifted an astounding 470 lbs, which is almost 3-times his bodyweight. In addition to his personal records, Cole also recorded a 1000 lbs total for the first time in a powerlifting meet. Colehour, a sophomore who is a member of the track team, set personal records with a 190 lbs squat, a 125 lbs bench press, and a 265 lbs dead lift. More importantly, Colehour was the 148 lbs weight class Regional Champion and qualified for the IHSPLA State Meet later this spring,” said Chris Dertz, coach.

POLHILL’S INC.

Photo supplied

Eastland High School powerlifters Paul Sturtevant, Natalie Colehour, and Cody Cole, competed at the IHSPLA (Illinois High School Powerlifting Association) Warrior Regional in McHenry, Illinois.

Help HELP ShowSUPPORT Support to Your Local School YOUR LOCAL Sports Teams SCHOOL SPORT FUNCTIONS Advertise Here! Advertise Here! (815) 632-2560 Call 815-625-3600

JD’s

AUTOMOTIVE

PEARL CITY SEAMLESS GUTTERS INC.

5 & 6 Inch Seamless Gutters, Downspouts & Gutter Guards

Farm Equipment Lawn & Garden Equipment Appliances Machine Work

815/493-2029

Stay in the know!

428 N. Main, Milledgeville 815-225-7155

JOHN DAEHLER Owner

prairieadvocate.com

201 E. LOCUST ST. LANARK Hrs.: 8AM - 5PM Mon-Fri

Check out our website

Three Convenient Locations Savanna-Thomson State Bank

POLO (815) 946-2777 LAKE CARROLL (815) 864-2125 fsbshannon-polo.com

Choice Realty 718 W Stephenson St Freeport, Il 61032 Ofﬁce 815-235-2111 Mark Curtis Broker

Cell 815-541-0057 markcurtis815@gmail.com www.choicerealtyfreeport.com

CARROLLCOUNTY LOCKER

ONE Bank...

SHANNON (815) 864-2111

Advertise Here! Call for details. 815-632-2560

451 N. Main Ave. P.O. Box 789 Milledgeville, IL 61051

(815) 225-7171 www.milledgevillebank.com

PACKING

Savanna 815-273-2261 PROCESSING Thomson 815-259-2455 RETAIL MEATS Mt. Carroll 815-244-2261 122E.CARROLLSTREET LANARK815-493-2370 www.stsb4U.com M-F 7:30-5; Closed 12-12:30pm Sat. 8-Noon or by appt.

815-499-1234

Aaron Hubbard,

NEW OWNER HOME • FARM • COMMERCIAL

(815) 493-2711

The jig is up when Kimberly Radostits bumps into the state’s superintendent of education in the hallway BY ALEXA ZOELLNER

azoellner@shawmedia.com OREGON — The plan to surprise Spanish teacher Kimberly Radostits with her teacher of the year award in her second-floor Oregon High School classroom didn’t go quite as planned. “Dr. Ayala? What are you doing here?” Radostits asked as she stood in the hallway on March 22, clearly shocked to see Illinois State Superintendent of Education Carmen Ayala. Ayala, flanked by district staff and members of the media, smoothly responded that she was visiting the 10 Regional Teacher of the Year winners. Radostits, 36, was named the Northwest Regional Teacher of the Year earlier this month. A stunned Radostits quickly was escorted back to her classroom and students. There, the short-lived white lie — cooked up just minutes earlier to explain Ayala’s presence — was revealed, and the real bombshell dropped: She wasn’t just one of the state’s best teachers — she was this year’s best. “I’m honored,” Radostits said. “I guess I did not see this happening, but I’m excited about it. Like I had told my friends, I was in a really unique position — that if I won overall state teacher of the year, it’s going to push me out of my comfort zone, and I am going to grow in ways that I couldn’t have ever imagined. “And if I didn’t win, I win, because I get to hang out with these people every single day,” she added, motioning to her students. “That’s how I feel. I mean, talking about the perfect situation, it was a win-win. … I love this. So yeah, let’s do it. I look forward to the future.” The Illinois State Board of Education has sponsored the Teacher of the Year program since 1970, according to the ISBE website. It recognizes “the best of the teaching profession” in the state, with all public and nonpublic pre-K-12 educators who have more than five years of experience eligible to win. Radostits works with students who “need a little extra support and who really resonate and have a relationship with her,” Ayala said of Radostits’ nomination. She helps students study and get ready to pass classes. “All those things, and that’s one of the most important reasons — her work with students,” Ayala said. “But also, her work during the pandemic

Photos by Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

Oregon High School teacher Kimberly Radostits reacts for being chosen 2022 Illinois Teacher of the Year. Pictured with Radosttits is Oregon Superintendent Tom Mahoney (left) and State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carmen I. Ayala (right). Officials surprised Radostits in her classroom with the announcement on Tuesday morning. Oregon High School teacher Kimberly Radostits gets a hug from one of her students, Andru Holland-Jones after receiving the award for being chosen 2022 Illinois Teacher of the Year. and supporting teachers. So that was something that was very important as well.” Radostits is the best teacher he’s ever had, said Andru Holland-Jones, 14. Caelyn Langley, 16, agreed. “She’s honestly the best teacher I’ve ever had,” Langley said. “Like, she’s a total sweetheart. She’s really helped me out, like really got me on a good path. I wasn’t doing too well my freshman year. She’s the reason that I’m doing better this year.” Her entire career, she’s felt like a winner, said Radostits, who has worked at Oregon High School for 15 years. “I felt like a winner all year. I felt like a winner my entire career,” she said. “I can see myself no place other than Oregon. And I truly believe that we’re doing some awesome things in this district that I’m excited to share.”

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

Oregon Spanish teacher is named state’s best

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

VA Coffee will meet at 9 a.m. Friday, April 1

What’s happening at CCSSO & CCT Hello everyone, We are still asking people NOT to bring any more books in. Currently our book room is overflowing. Also we will no longer be taking VHS tapes. Thank you in advance for your cooperation in this matter. We want to thank our volunteers Laurie Foltz and Janet Hockman for getting the book room straightened up and in order. Ruby Handel use to be our book room organizer and we want to thank her for all the years she put in. Also Cathy Gies and Fayellen Sanetra have helped in the past with organizing the book room. We are truly blessed to have such wonderful volunteers. The Book/Exercise Room looks fabulous, so if you get the chance come on out to 17612 E Benton Street to check it out. The AARP Volunteers have informed us that the last day for Taxes will be on Wednesday, April 13. Remember after that the tax people will not be here until next Tax season. Our first “Rules of the Road Class” will be held on

Friday, May 27 from 9-10:30 a.m. You can call between office hours, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday – Friday to get your name on the list, 815-244-1800. Please note the newest scam going around. A person calls you and ask for you Medicare number because they are issuing new Medicare cards with a chip in them. This is not true at all, please tell them you know this is a scam and hang up immediately. KEY TAKEAWAYS Scammers use phone calls and email messages to impersonate Social Security personnel and trick people into giving up personal information. Common tactics include threatening to cut off Social Security benefits or charging for services the Social Security Administration provides for free. Scams should be reported to your local authorities, the SSA Office of the Inspector General, or the Federal Trade Commission. Veterans Coffee will be on Friday, April 1, at 9 a.m. If you are a Veteran and you haven’t had the chance to attend this meeting, you are missing out on some great conversation and of course yummy

snacks. Bingo will be held on Tuesday, April 5 & 19 at 12:30 p.m. Jim Wiebenga from Allure, will be calling Bingo on the third Tuesday of the month. The Senior Center and Transit will both be closed on Friday, April 15 in observance of Good Friday. The Senior Center is holding a hearing clinic on Thursday, March 31 from 9-11 a.m. If you are interested in making an appointment please call us at 815-244-1800. I would like to remind everyone that the Senior Center is open Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. We are located at 17612 E. Benton Rd., Mt. Carroll, IL 61053 Remember if you need to schedule a ride please call CCT Dispatch at 815-244-0011, this is the direct line to schedule your ride. If you have any questions regarding this please contact myself at 815-244-1800 or Alicia Kness at 815-244-0011. God bless all of you Deb Conner, director

Let us help you get your message out! Contact Angelica at 815-632-2560 to find out how we can help. Email: amartinez @shawmedia.com

GRAPEVINE

NICAA Golden Meals program has expanded its services to include more home-delivery routes in the Shannon area, for the town of Shannon and the rural areas surrounding it. The Home-Delivery program is for any senior citizen age 60 or over who would benefit from having a meal delivered to their home on a daily basis.

Delivery will be available Monday through Friday. For more information or to sign up for the program, call 815-232-8896. Sign up is quick and easy and meals can start within a day or two. To sign up for Savanna, Mt. Carroll, Thomson, Chadwick or Milledgeville area, please call 815-273-4875 to set up for meal delivery.

TRANSPORTATION CCT now has four buses and 10 vans, all wheelchair accessible, available to take people to meals, medical appointments and to do shopping and other errands in towns and around the county or to Freeport, Sterling or Clinton. We have now added medical appointment to Monroe, Rockford and Iowa City with a 3-day notice. If you need a ride, call 244‑0011 at least 48 hours in advance to schedule your trip. For shopping trips, there is a 5-bag limit due to space issues. We provide this service to assist those who no longer drive or would rather have someone else do the driving. Please remember our drivers are not allowed to go into your home per IDOT regulations, so if you are not able to get yourself out to the van or bus you would need to have someone there to help you into the van or bus and off the van or bus to go to your appointment. We can accommodate a few more riders. If our services would be of use to you, just give any of our dispatchers, Tina, Lisa, Tawny or Bebe, a call at 815-244-0011 and they will be happy to get your ride scheduled.

CARROLL COUNTY SENIOR SERVICES ORGANIZATION Mission Statement The mission of the Carroll County Senior Services Organization is to facilitate a variety of services and activities to enrich the daily lives of the citizens of Carroll County. Carroll County Senior Services Organization receives Title III Older Americans Act and State of Illinois General Revenue Funds through the Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging

Board of Directors Russ Gies, Thomson, Chairman Jane Law, Mt. Carroll, Vice Chairman Butch Hasz, Lanark, Treasurer Donna Green, Chadwick, Secretary Darla Burkholder, Lanark Joyce Schubert, Mt. Carroll Mary Stevens, Shannon Pam Darrow, Savanna Letha Rahn, Lake Carroll See CCSSO, Page 17

Nonagenarians and Centenarians Birthdays for April April 3 – Kenny Schneider, Mt Carroll – 90 April 4 – Lyle Hartman, Savanna – 94 April 7 – Glenn Brunner, Savanna – 93 April 8 - Gladys Streeter, Savanna – 90 April 10 – William Chamberlain, Thomson – 92 April 12 – Dorothy Breuning, Savanna – 94 April 13 – Mavis Tipton, Savanna – 92 April 15 – Catherine Krontz, Thomson- 94 April 17- Margie Mummert, Lanark - 96 April 18 – Edna McCann, Lanark – 90 April 18 – Lorraine Forrest, Savanna – 93 April 25 – Wayne Haas, Savanna – 96 April 26 - Virginia Derrickson, Mt Carroll – 96 April 26 – Darrell Mercure, Lanark – 91 April 27 - Wilhelmina McGlauchlin, Savanna – 100 Happy Birthday to all of you from all of us here at the Senior Center.

Trouble hearing on the phone?

Illinois Telecommunication Access Corporation (ITAC) has added a program to help those with cellular service that are having trouble hearing on the phone. The program provides free amplified telephones and captioning telephone to Illinois residents that are hard of hearing. Applicants must be certified as hard of hearing by a doctor, nurse practitioner, or audiologist; live in Illinois; and have a service that remits to the program. Lee County Council on Aging (LCCOA) and Whiteside County Senior Center (WCSC) are selection centers for

ITAC. Walk-ins are welcomed from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday at the WCSC. Potential applicants can call the WCSC 815-622-9230, ext. 194, or LCCOA 815288-9236 in advance to set up an appointment to see about qualifying. Cellphones must be Bluetooth capable. Applicants applying for this program, should bring in the cellphone. Please bring a phone bill with all the pages for landline service or cellular service (prepaid cell uses that don’t receive a phone bill must bring the cellphone) and proof of address (driver’s license, state ID, or a bill with the applicant’s name and address on it).

SERVICES Exercise Equipment

The Senior Center has six pieces of professional-grade equipment, treadmill, rowing machine, Stair Stepper, E-Force Cross Trainer exerciser and recumbent bicycle. You are welcome to use any of these anytime the Senior Center is open, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. These six pieces of exercise equipment have been

donated to help seniors get some needed movement and cardio work that can improve both their physical and mental states. And as anyone can tell you, a few minutes walking or riding a bike can go a long way. Remember in our new building we have no steps so the equipment is so much easier to get to. So bring a few friends and all of you can work out together, and the best part is it is FREE!!!! We ask that COVID-19 protocols be observed and after using the equipment that you sanitize with the wipes provided for everyone’s safety.

What do you do with your old cellphones? Carroll County Senior Center has a donation box for old and broken cellphones. We recycle them by sending them into a company that refurbishes them for emergency 911 phones for areas devastated by disasters and for sale to low-income people. We currently have a box at the Senior Center. If you know of anyone looking to get rid of old cellphones, have them drop them off at the Carroll County Senior Center during our regular business hours 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

NICAA Golden Meals has expanded to include more home-delivery routes

GRAPEVINE

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

12 DONATION FORM FOR CCSSO Clip Out and Return

____ $5 ____ $10 ____$20

____$50 ____$100 ____$500

Memorial_________________________________________________________ Other_____________________________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________________ City____________________________________ State ________ Zip ______

MAIL TO: Carroll County Senior Services Organization PO BOX 89, 17612 E. Benton St., Mt. Carroll, IL 61053

• CCSSO Continued from Page 11 Shirley Fritz, Savanna Craig Dimmick, Mt. Carroll Jim Calhoun, Mt. Carroll Ann Crouse, Mt. Carroll Charlie Dauphin, Savanna Director Deb Connor SHAP/SHIP Counselor Deb Connor, Karen Holm, Sandra Aude Office Manager Karen Holm NIAAA Advisory Board Jane Law, Darla Burkholder NIAAA Board of Directors Donna Bausman County Board Liaison Gary Imel Mission Statement The mission of CCT is to provide safe, reliable, and cost effective public transportation to citizens of Carroll County. We are committed to enhancing quality of life through affordable and accessible transportation service. Our Carroll County Transit team pledges to provide courteous service to our customers and meet the changing needs of our region. Carroll County Transit receives Title III B Older Americans Act and State of Illinois

General Revenue Funds through the Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging, Operation Assistance from Federal (5311), and Down State Operations Assistance Program (DOAP). CCT Operations Manager Alicia Kness CCT Dispatchers Tina Hughes, Lisa Disher, Tawny Loper, Bebe Irons CCT Grants Manager Mary Maszk CCT Transit Drivers Leo Gelwicks, Dennis Plattenberger, Mike Miller, Austin Wallestad,Wayne Becker, Lisa Disher, Danny Prowant, Karen Phillips, Taylor Bensching , Kristin Knapp, Carolyn Olsen, William Kee, Alvin Haan, Kim Haan, Joseph Czurylo, Brad Wilson CCT Advisory Board Mike Doty-CCT P-Com Mary Maszk, CCT Administrative Manager Alicia Kness, CCT Dispatch Manager Anna Gray, Allure of Mt. Carroll Edward Heflin-RTAC Jon Murray-Rolling Hills Jane Law - CCSSO Board Liaison Dawn Holland, CC Health Department Connie Davis – Sinnissippi Deb Connor, CCSSO/CCT Director Carroll County Transit 815-244-0011 Fax: 312-278-0142

Carroll County Veterans Assistance Commission The Carroll County Veterans Assistance Commission, located at 17612 E. Benton St. P.O. Box 126, Mt. Carroll, is operated by and for veterans. The commission is committed to providing services and financial aid to qualified military veterans and their families who reside in Carroll County. Information can be obtained from this office on VA disability compensation, VA pensions, VA burials, VA health care, educational benefits, lost discharge certificates and other benefits administered by the VA. Carroll County Transit, which takes our veterans to the Madison, Wisconsin, VA Hospital, can now take veterans to the Iowa City Hospital for their medical needs. The trips to either hospital are free to the veteran. The VAC also will pay for medical appointment trips to Monroe, Rockford and the Quad Cities. The medical appointments at these locations will be through The Commu-

nity Choice Act and will be scheduled for you. They will NOT schedule your transportation for you. If you are unable to keep your medical appointment, please call and reschedule right away. If you do not, or miss your appointment, you may lose your VA coverage. If you are new to this service, please call Carroll County Transit at 815-2440011 to reserve your seat in the van. To do so, please make your appointment to either place at least 2 days before your medical appointment. To schedule your appointment to coincide with Carroll County Transit, please make your medical appointments no later than 1:00 p.m. Carroll County Transit runs their vans Monday through Friday (excluding holidays). If you have any questions, you can call the Carroll County VAC at 815-9060133 or 815-906-0134. If we can’t answer, please leave a message.

Bingo Bingo is held at the Senior Center on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. For the month of April the dates are Tuesday, April 5 and Tuesday, April 19. I am happy to announce that on the third Tuesday, Jim Wiebenga from Allure, will be calling Bingo for our players. They play with nickels and dimes so make sure and bring some of your extra change as sometimes there are “big” winners. Mark your calendar, and join us. No charge. Coffee is provided. In case of bad weather please listen to WCCI Radio (100.3) for closing information.

an appointment.

SHIP Counselors Karen Holm, Sandra Aude and Deb Connor are all SHIP Counselors and Certified Information and Referral Specialists for Aging. Karen and Deb are available for information and/or assistance to clients and their caregivers on Medicare, Medicaid, prescriptions (i.e. Medicare Part D, Social Security Extra Help and patient assistance programs). Karen and Deb can also assist with these; license plate discount (Benefits Access Program), free amplified phone program (ITAC), Property Tax Assessment Freeze, etc. Stop at the office, 17612 E Benton St., Mt. Carroll, IL or call 815-244 1800 for assistance or to set up

Do you qualify for a discount on your Illinois license plates?

Here are the income guidelines for the license plate discount. If you qualify, you can apply for the Benefits Access Program, (Formerly Circuit Breaker) and receive a discount on your license plate sticker. The new income guidelines for the license plate discount (gross income) are: 1-person household, $33,562; 2-person household, $44,533; 3-person household $55,500. The age requirement is 65 or disabled. Applicants need to bring in 2020 income to file (1040 &1099s). Call 815244-1800 if you have any question. Please note that is gross income not AGI.

Hospice Services

We now have Hospice brochures at the Senior Center for anyone that may be needing this service. They are a wonderful service to help prepare family and friends for the loss of a loved one, and also provides additional support often needed after the loss occurs. Their emphasis is to assist families who desire to care for their loved one during the final phases of life. They care for the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of their patients and their families as they deal with this period of illness and bereavement.

GRAPEVINE

Friday, April 1 VA Coffee @ 9AM Tuesday, April 5 Bingo @ 12:30 PM Saturday, April 9 Lanark & Milledgeville Paper Pick Up 8 – 10 a.m. Thursday, April 14 CCT Advisory Meeting, 1 p.m.

Friday, April 15 Closed in observance of Good Friday Saturday, April 16 Chadwick Paper Pick Up 8– 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 19 Board Meeting 9:15 a.m. Bingo @ 12:30 p.m.

Area Agency meeting

The Senior Center will be closed on Friday, April 15 in observance of Good Friday. Another location may be found for the meeting, however we did have that information before print time. Laura Smith will be sending out emails in April to let everyone know what has been decided.

Paper, aluminum can pickup schedule for March Lanark

Saturday, April 9 (subject to availability of volunteers) 8 to 10 a.m. Bank parking lot

Milledgeville

Saturday, April. 9 (subject to availability of volunteers) 8 to 10 a.m. Main Street parking lot by Railroad Depot

Chadwick

Saturday, April 16 (subject to availability of volunteers) 8 to 10 a.m. at City Hall

Shannon Saturday, April 23

(subject to availability of volunteers) 8 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. South side of the park

books, video tapes, etc. or steel cans. PLEASE no aluminum pie tins.

STATISTICS (2021/2022)

Lake Carroll

Please place papers in the plastic container provided.

Fiscal Year July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022

Mt. Carroll

Weekdays 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Senior Center

Please place in trailer if after hours. Do not leave at the front door.

NOTES

No paper pickup if it is raining. Phone books are welcome. Recyclers cut off the binding and are able to use the paper.

Corrugated cardboard is no longer accepted. Please, please no cat or dog food cans. We are not able to recycle those cans. Please, no magazines, no advertising no slicks, no glass or plastic bottles,

Paper sold: March..................0 tons Money rec’d YTD: Jan........ $496.85 Paper sold YTD:............... 5.230 tons Total YTD:....................... $496.85 5 cent cans sold March .......... $0 5 cent cans sold YTD............$164 Pounds of Aluminum beverage cans sold for March...............203 pounds Total for aluminum beverage cans sold for March......................$192.85 Pounds of aluminum cans sold year to date.................1,277 pounds Cans sold year to date....... $807.45

CONTRIBUTIONS The CCSSO would like to thank the following who have made contributions to the Senior Center during the month of March: DONATIONS Dan Lantau Vernon & Mariann Taylor Dorothy Shearer Wendy Brandley Julie Isenhart Raymond & Patricia Doolen

Vicki Heiser Bobbie Hochbaum Kevin Marken Linda Zissis Henry & Elizabeth Schaffer Peggy Kolb Sandra Balk Cheryl & Ralph Rannfeldt Janice Westerman Narda Alvelo Alice Halfman Donna Quick

Rod & Sue Wubbena Charles & Linda Elliott Elizabeth Schupbach Jeff & Renee Dauphin Sandra & Lester Coers Ellis & Kathy Atherton Joan Bielema Sandra Aude Kimberly & Robert Zissler Mary Ann Hutchinson Larry & Amanda Siperly Bebe & Robert Irons

Joyce & Rene Alcantara Harvey & Connie Tegeler Cathy Brown Leo & Lois Gelwicks Katherine Schmidt John & Nona Parks CHURCHES Cherry Grove Church For a complete listing of donors FY20202021, see the annual report. Copies are available at the Senior Center office.)

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

April Calendar of Events

Prairie Advocate Classifieds EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

SOCIAL WORKER RNs and LPNs CERTIFIED NURSE'S AIDES Gaffey Home Nursing and Hospice & Gaffey Health Service are hiring!

Social Worker needed for Hospice and Home Care. Master's Degree preferred, but Bachelor's degree accepted. Salary commiserative with experience. Duties include patient visits, bereavement, volunteer supervision, and taking admissions. M-F 8-4:30, Health Care benefits, and retirement included. RNs and LPNs needed for shifts of 8a-12p and 5p-9p to care for an adult in his home. Health care benefits with full-time hours. RN's $32/hr and LPN's $27/hr. Training provided.

Certified Nurse's Aides needed for all areas within the

Sauk Valley. Flexible scheduling for both Full-Time and Part Time. We work around children's schedules, other jobs and schooling. Full Time starts at @ $14/hr with health care benefits available after 30 days. Part-Time starts at $13.50 and must work 10 hours per week and required to work 1 weekend per month. Visit us online at: GaffeyHealthService.com click Careers to learn more about joining the Gaffey Family then click View Job Openings for more on each position & apply online.

EMPLOYMENT

PROGRAM DIRECTOR Salaried position Please apply at:

Heritage Square

620 N. Ottawa Ave, Dixon, IL EOE

EMPLOYMENT

LIBRARY DIRECTOR Polo Public Library

Job description and application at www.PoloLibrary.org Start Date: June 6, 2022 Salary: $32,000-$40,000 based on qualifications and experience Cover letter, resume & application must be received by April 15, 2022 at: Polo Public Library 302 W. Mason St. Polo, IL 61064 or email: ellenf@pololibrary.org

EMPLOYMENT

SEASONAL PATROL

The Lake Carroll Security department is looking to fill seasonal positions for UTV patrol on trial system and boat patrol for the lake. Please refer to www.golakecarroll.com to find an application or contact the Lake Carroll Security department 815-493-2552 ext 118

EMPLOYMENT

CUSTODIAN

PART TIME

Part Time Custodian at Milledgeville School to begin May 16th. Pay will range from $13 to $15 per hour. Send letter of interest and references to: Tim Schurman, Superintendent Chadwick-Milledgeville CUSD #399 100 E 8th Street, Milledgeville, IL 61051 or call 815-225-5839

EMPLOYMENT

CDL DRIVERS Full time. Hourly pay with benefits. Contact Schoff Farm Service, Inc. Walnut, IL. 815-379-2777

FRONT OFFICE / CLERICAL Part-time to eventually full time front office / clerical help in a local Polo office. Email resume to: opportunitypolo@ gmail.com

EMPLOYMENT

STEEL MILL WORKERS

ATTENTION PRESS OPERATORS and other Skilled Folks! FRANTZ Manufacturing Company is growing, and we have an URGENT NEED for PRESS OPERATORS to setup and run our Steel Stamping Press machines. Positions in Assembly, Heat Treat, Maintenance and Tool & Die are available, too. 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

E.O.E M/F

Don’t need it?

$25+ starting pay

Affordable Insurance

On The Job Training

45+ hr/week

Retirement Options

Advancement Opportunities

Sound good? Keep reading…. SSC is hiring Primary Utility employees to perform labor task that are vital to the successful operation of the mill. This is a perfect opportunity for reliable, hard-working individuals to build a rewarding long-term career. Manufacturing, construction or related exp. preferred but not required. Details about work, conditions & schedule are provided with the application.

Applications available 24/7 at Sterling Steel Company - 101 Ave K. – Sterling Resumes may be emailed to ashley.nelson@sscllc.com SSC is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veteran/Disability Employer

SELL IT!

Call to place a Classified Ad

www.prairieadvocate.com

Call: 833-584-NEWS (6397) or E-mail: classified@shawsuburban.com

SM-ST1963679

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

EMPLOYME

Wh t

About Th This po variety magazi territory

Some s drive, a to grow hard, b

This po commis transpo

About Sh Shaw M website Founde family s

Enjoy the In retu compre life, and

Shaw bac

EMPLOYMENT

DIETARY AIDE Part Time Please apply at:

EMPLOYMENT

HOUSEKEEPING WANTED Full Time & Part Time Please apply at:

Heritage Square

620 N. Ottawa Ave, Dixon, IL EOE

EMPLOYMENT

620 N. Ottawa Ave, Dixon, IL EOE

EMPLOYMENT

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Dixon

Sauk Valley Media, part of Shaw Media, a respected and dominant media company located in Dixon, IL, has a full-time opening in the Advertising Department. Whether you are seeking to make a career change or you are new to the workforce, come join an established growing company! About This Opportunity: This position is responsible for connecting businesses with their audiences in a variety of print and online products, including but not limited to newspapers, magazines, websites, web-based products, and much more within an established territory in Whiteside and Lee Counties. Some sales experience is desired, but we are seeking a person with personality, drive, and ambition. We are always willing to train a person who shows the desire to grow and learn. Best of all, we are a fun bunch of people to work with! We work hard, but we like to have fun along the way. This position is Monday - Friday and offers base pay along with a generous commission program. Must have and maintain a valid driver's license, dependable transportation, and proof of insurance. 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. Enjoy the Rewards of Working Among the Best: In return for your contributions to our success, Shaw Media offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life, and 401(k) with company match.

Please submit a cover letter along with your resume to:

www.shawmedia.com/careers

or mail to: Shaw Media - Account Executive, Attn: Human Resources PO Box 250, Crystal Lake, IL 60039 Shaw Media is an Equal Opportunity and Drug-Free Employer. Pre-employment background check, motor vehicle record check, and drug screen required.

LOST

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

SAVANNA

LEGAL NOTICES

Lost in the vicinity of Lost Nations a Subaru owner manual & cd collection in a blue folder. REWARD Call 815-652-4518

Locally raised pork and beef for sale. Processed at Johnson's Locker in Chadwick, IL. Frozen & packaged. Call 815-632-7149 please leave a message.

Residential and Commercial property for sale 2 story, 2,091 Sq. Ft. on 1.5 lots,4 bedrooms, 2 garages (1st is 24 x18 the nd 2 is 36x 24), 1.5 bath, fence and basement. Asking $134,000. Call 815-590-6474

NOTICE ANNUAL DRINKING WATER REPORT is now available for the Village of Milledgeville @ http:/milledgevilleil. net/waterquality .pdf.

ANNOUNCEMENTS CELEBRATE RECOVERY! A program based on the Bible. Weekly Meeting Every Friday from 6:00-8:00 P.M. at York Community Church, Thomson, IL. Contact: Robert Heath @ 815-2593550.

AUTOMOBILES 2018 Chevy Cruz LT supreme. fully loaded, excellent condition. Booked out price through NADA at $20,950. 1 car owner selling for $19,990 with only 19 K miles. Completely serviced and detailed. Also oil change, tire rotation, shampoo and waxed. 2 many features to mention serious inquires Call 815-499-1839

STERLING

IF YOU WOULD LIKE A PAPER COPY MAILED TO YOU PLEASE CALL 815-225-7231. March 30, 2022

Park setting 2BR, 1 story, No steps. Attached garage. A/C, High efficiency, gas heat, W/D H/U. 55+, No smoking or pets. $695/mo. 1834 2nd Ave. 815-499-0199

NOTICE ANNUAL TOWN MEETING CLOTHING Notice is hereby given to the legal voters, residents of RIP -N- TEAR: the Town of FloSewing RepairsBlue Jeans, Work rence, in the counClothes & Zippers ty of Stephenson Replaced. and State of IlliAdvertise In Thomson area nois, that the AnYour Need to place a 815-541-3178 nual Town Meeting Rentals Help Wanted ad? in of said Town will Classified the place on Call 833-584-NEWS take Classifieds TUESDAY, APRIL or Email: It works. 12th, 2022 , being helpwanted@ Call the second Tues833-584-NEWS 833-584-NEWS shawmedia.com day of said month at 6:30 p.m. at the Florence Township Garage for the transaction of miscellaneous business of said town; and after a Moderator having been elected, will proceed to hear and consider reports of officers, and deCALL TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED cide on such measures as may, in 815-220-6942 pursuance of law, come before the meeting; and especially consider and decide the following: Monthly meetings the second Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. after the annual meeting. Let the road commissioner dispose of equipment in the most profitable way. Dated: March 14, 2022 Carolyn Eden, Town Clerk

Check out our Vehicles Classification in Today’s Classified

March 30, 2022

15 PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

www.prairieadvocate.com

EMPLOYMENT

and State of Illinois, that the Annual Town Meeting of said Town will take place on TUESDAY, APRIL LEGAL 2022 NOTICES, being 12th, the second Tuesday of said month at 6:30 p.m. at the Florence Township Garage for the transaction of miscellaneous business of said town; and after a Moderator having been elected, will proceed to hear and consider reports of officers, and decide on such measures as may, in pursuance of law, come before the meeting; and especially consider and decide the following: Monthly meetings the second Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. after the annual meeting. Let the road commissioner dispose of equipment in the most profitable way. Dated: March 14, 2022 Carolyn Eden, Town Clerk

16 PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

The Bath or Shower You’ve Always Wanted

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 30, 2022

IN AS LITTLE AS 1 DAY

$500

OFF

No Payments & No Interest For 18 Months **

• • • •

Tub-to-Shower Conversions Replacement Tubs Replacement Showers Walk-in Tubs

• Low-Barrier Showers • Soaker Tubs • Accessories and more!

OFFER EXPIRES 6.30.2022

Military & Senior Discounts Available

CALL NOW!

(815) 893-3111 • 900+ Authorized Dealers • Made in the U.S.A.

• Factory-Trained & Certiﬁed Installers • Limited Lifetime Warranty

*Includes product and labor; bathtub, shower or walk-in tub and wall surround. This promotion cannot be combined with any other offer. Other restrictions may apply. This offer expires June 30, 2022. Each dealership is independently owned and operated. **Third party ﬁnancing is available for those customers who qualify. See your dealer for details. ©2022 BCI Acrylic, Inc.