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Illinois Valley Chamber names community award winners
40 Under Forty, Community Cornerstone honorees selected
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce has announced its 2025 Champions of Change honorees, recognizing leaders through its annual 40 Under Forty and Community Cornerstone awards.
Those people are honored for driving progress across the region through innovation, service, leadership and an unwavering commitment to community.
“These two awards represent the past, present and future of leadership in our region,” the Chamber said in a statement. “40 Under Forty celebrates the rising leaders 40 and under who are making an incredible difference through their professional work and volunteerism. Community Cornerstone recognizes those over 40 who have served as the region’s guiding lights, spearheading initiatives, mentoring others and building the foundations our communities stand on.”
This year’s recipients represent a diverse cross-section with decades of impact across the Illinois Valley.
“These individuals have poured their passion, leadership and resilience into strengthening our region,” IVAC Executive Director Bill Zens said. “This recognition reflects not just what they’ve accomplished, but the lasting
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
Daughters of the American Revolution to honor exemplary high school students
The Chief Senachwine Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, will host exemplary students and their families at a reception for Good Citizens on Friday, March 6, at 1:30 p.m. at Henry’s First Presbyterian Church.
impact they continue to make every single day.”
IVAC extended its appreciation to the volunteer selection committee, which included Dr. Tracy Morris of Illinois Valley Community College, Lissa Olson of the Veterans Assistance Commission, Dr. Clayton Theisinger of Putnam County School District, Jenica Cole of Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce and Jay McCracken of Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce.
40 Under Forty honorees
Megan Blankenhagen, Midwest Mane Co.; Katie Burdette, OSF HealthCare; Emily Clark, Mendota CCSD #289 – Northbrook School; Cassie Essl, Essl Farms; Kelly Fahle, Express Employment Professionals; Alexis Ferracuti-Stearns, Law Offices of Peter F. Ferracuti, P.C.; Sarah Finley, SOCU; Julia Fowkes, Shaw Local Radio; Vickie Frenzer, Vista Resources Inc.; Ray Gatza, City of La Salle Police Department; Ashton Good, Vactor Manufacturing; Dani Holland, Shaw Media; Alaina Iverson, City of Ottawa; Miranda Johnson, Regional Office of Education – Serena Middle School; Kelsey Klein, Maitri Path to Wellness and The Tee Box; Brandon LaChance, Self-Employed; Bethany Lamb, B Dominique Boutique; Kayla Law, Kayla Law’s Cleaning Service; Jordan Lebahn, Marquis Management LLC; Edgar Lucero Castillo, Perona, Peterlin & Associates; Grant Magerkurth, CIT Trucks LLC; Madison Mendoza, SOCU; Seth Miskowiec, Arukah Institute of Healing; Emma Nagel, Kelley Cawley; Lindsey Nordstrom, Spry Physical Therapy and Geriatric Wellness; Richard Parsons,
KTO Travel Solutions, Next Level Exit & FYA Bar; Jade Poundstone Spears, Tria Federal; Marion Quintana, Expressions Salon LLC; JJ Raffelson, JJR Next Level Training and Fitness; Sara Renner, The SUD CO. & Federal Signal; Nicole Salazar, Kelley Cawley; Brandon Scheppers, Mendota School District 289; Paige Scoma, Empowering Minds; Ariel Swanson, Arukah Institute of Healing; Cailey Taylor, Illinois Valley Auto Group; Ruth Tempest, Accenture; Corrina Trumbo, Epilepsy Advocacy Network; Cory Uranich, ADM; Bailee Wallace, Carus LLC; and Alexandria Wamhoff, LaSalle County CASA.
Community Cornerstone honorees
Ron Borelli, retired; Fran Brolley, nonprofit work; Kevin Coleman, retired; Jennifer Dudek, retired; Ron Groleau, Illinois Valley Community College (retired); Melanie Malooley Thompson, self-employed CPA and co-owner of The Tee Box and mayor of Spring Valley; Lynda Marlene Moshage, Carle Health; Donna Nordstrom, Heritage Corridor Destinations and EdRae Contracting Services; Angela Partridge, Blanco Kays Corgiat Eyecare; Demetrio Salazar, retired; Diane Scoma, Illinois Valley Community College; and Molly Thrasher, retired T.E.S.T Inc. and Ladd Farmers Market.
Awards Reception
Event details and ticket information will be announced soon. Community members are encouraged to subscribe to Chamber email updates or visit www. ivaced.org for the latest information.
One outstanding student, selected by fellow seniors and faculty, will be acknowledged from Henry-Senachwine, Midland and Putnam County high schools. The program will be presented by Corey James, founder of the Freedom Paws organization. Freedom Paws organization is based in Chillicothe. His dogs are trained to comfort and
support veterans and first responders suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Freedom Paws service dogs have been provided to those requesting dogs in six states.
The church is located at 511 Wirt St. in Henry. – Maribeth M. WIlson
IVCC hosts 20th annual Edible Car Contest
By MATHIAS WOERNER mwoerner@shawmedia.com
Food was flying down the track on the afternoon of Feb. 25 at the 20th Annual Edible Car Contest at Illinois Valley Community College.
More than 200 participants from Illinois Valley junior high and high schools, the IVCC student body and members of the IVCC community created 78 cars that were judged and raced in the gymnasium at the main Oglesby campus.
“This event began back in 2006 as a creative way to celebrate National Engineering Week,” IVCC Dean of Workforce Development Rebecca Zamora said. “What started as a fun idea has become a community tradition that we are proud to continue.”
Participants filled the IVCC gymnasium bleachers for an afternoon of entertaining racing, pizza and trivia.
“We just want the students to find some joy in design and creativity, and maybe find something that sparks their scientific interest,” IVCC Adult Education Specialist Kara Eisert said. “We were just looking to entertain the students and make sure they have a good time so that it continues to be an event that they want to do every year.”
Every item used by the participants to make the car must be edible. However this requirement led to a few partici -
does not begin when you step onto a college campus, it begins in the classrooms you are sitting in right now.”
There were 11 categories that participants could be rewarded for that the judges were evaluating.
Best Middle School Car went to JFK School Bus of John F. Kennedy Elementary School, with Monster Mash of Putnam County Junior High taking second place.
Best High School Car went to Spongemobile, and The Whale took second place. Both cars were from La Salle-Peru High School.
Best IVCC Student Car went to Chica’s Cupcake, and The Sandwich took second place.
Best IVCC Community Car went to Big Wheel Dream, and Donut Drifter took second place.
In the creativity category, Spongemobile won, and Unidentified Flying Orange took second place. Both cars were from La Salle-Peru High School.
In the detail category, Monster Mash of Putnam County Junior High won, and La Carcacha of DePue High School took second place.
pants who chose to eat their engineering product by the end of the contest.
Students from nine different schools participated in the contest, highlighting National Engineering Week.
“The projects you complete in the classrooms every day are building real workforce skills,” Zamora said, addressing the assembled students. “The future needs thinkers like you. Your future
In the most nutritious category, The Tomator Nator of DePue High School won, and The Viper of Paw Paw Junior/ Senior High School took second place.
See EDIBLE CAR, page 4
Scott Anderson
Putnam County students Anahi Avila (from left), EliMae Glynn, Dayzlyn Cioni, Brooke McCart, Luis Ramirez and Makenna Goulding react on Feb. 25 while watching their car race down the ramp during the Edible Car Contest at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby. The group won the award for fastest overall car.
ABOVE:Ottawa Township High School students (from left) Evan Faklmaier, Charlie Wooster and Dominic Parks watch their car travel down the ramp during the Edible Car Contest on Feb. 25 at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby. BELOW: JFK School eighth graders Kirah Struck and Keira Parker watch their car speed down the race ramp on Feb. 25.
Continued from page 3
In the sweetest car category, Monster Mash of Putnam County Junior High won, and Sugar Rush of DePue High School took second place.
In the judge’s call category, Bubby of Waltham Elementary School won, and Big Wheel Dream of La Salle-Peru High School took second place.
In the design category, Unidentified Flying Orange of La Salle-Peru High School won, and Candy Land of JFK Elementary School took second place.
The award for fastest car went to Marshmallow Madness of Putnam County Junior High, making it down the track in just .88 seconds.
“We were so excited to have the students. We loved seeing the designs and all of the hard work that went into the edible cars,” Zamora said. “We hope the students leave inspired to keep learning, dreaming and creating. We encourage them to keep asking questions, trying new things and collaborating.”
IVCC’s Making Industry Meaningful In College project and the Workforce Development division sponsored the contest.
Photos by Scott Anderson
Freedom House in Princeton elects Dr. Crystal Strode to board
Henry County physician, board member brings healthcare leadership experience to role
By BILL FRESKOS bfreskos@shawmedia.com
Freedom House in Princeton recently announced it has elected Dr. Crystal Strode to its Board of Directors.
According to a news release from the agency, Strode has experience in health care leadership and community service that make her a strong fit for the role.
“Dr. Strode’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of our region reflects the very heart of Freedom House’s mission,” Chief Operating Officer Chloe Lund wrote in a release. “Her experience as a healthcare provider, business leader, and public servant, combined with her deep roots in Henry County, will be an invaluable asset to our Board and to the survivors and families we serve.”
Notably, Strode founded Vibrant Health, a locally owned primary care clinic, in Cambridge in 2019. In 2024, she opened a second Vibrant Health location in Geneseo.
As for community involvement, she has served on the Henry County Board since February 2025 and is a member of the Henry County 708 Mental Health Board.
“Strong communities are built
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
IVCC opens Paul Simon Essay Contest for currently enrolled students
Illinois Valley Community College is accepting submissions for its 2026 Paul Simon Student Essay Contest. The student who best describes “How IVCC has changed my life” will win $300 and read their essay at the May 16 Commencement ceremony. All currently enrolled full-time or part-time IVCC students are eligible. Essays must be 500 words or less and submitted as an
Photo provided by Freedom House Dr. Crystal Strode was recently elected to the Freedom House Board of Directors. Strode founded Vibrant Health in Cambridge in 2019 and currently serves on the Henry County Board and the Henry County 708 Mental Health Board.
when we come together to support one another,” Strode said in a statement.
“Freedom House provides critical services to individuals and families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. I am honored to serve on the Board of Directors and support the organization’s work to provide safety, advocacy and hope.”
attachment to peggyschneider@ivcc.edu.
Use “Paul Simon Essay” in the subject line. The deadline is noon Friday, March 6.
The winning essay will be entered in the Illinois Community College Trustees Association statewide contest. One submission will be chosen for a $500 award.
For information, contact Vice President for Student Services Mark Grzybowski at 815-224-0393 or markgrzybowski@ivcc. edu.
Peru’s 4-legged finest celebrates second birthday
By SCOTT ANDERSON sanderson@shawmedia.com
Peru Police K-9 Haven turned 2 years old on Feb. 25. Haven celebrated her birthday by eating a dog cake and having students sing “Happy Birthday” at Students Obtaining Achievement and Responsibility School in Peru. K-9. Haven is the Peru Police Department’s comfort dog.
ABOVE: Students (from left) Silverie, Joshaua, Rian and Greyson watch Peru Police K-9 Haven eat her birthday cake on her 2nd birthday on Feb. 25, at Students Obtaining Achievement and Responsibility school in Peru. K-9 The birthday cake was a special dog cake full of milk bones, sausage and peanut butter. Haven brings comfort, joy and smiles to many in Peru and elsewhere. LEFT: Peru Police K-9 Haven licks a dog cake on her 2nd birthday on Feb. 25, at Students Obtaining Achievement and Responsibility (SOAR) school in Peru
Luck, Laughter, and a Dash of Leprechaun Magic
IVCC Foundation celebrates 50 years of student support with gala event
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Illinois Valley Community College Foundation will celebrate 50 years of supporting students and academic programs with a night of dinner and entertainment on March 27, at Senica’s Oak Ridge in La Salle.
Cocktail hour begins at 5 p.m., followed by presentations at 6 p.m., along with a live auction, buffet dinner, music and dancing.
Silent auctions and raffles will be open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Musical entertainment will be provided by Guys on the Radio DJ Service, with Rediger Auction Service of Wyanet as auctioneer.
Since its establishment in 1976 through a $100,000 bequest from Helen Taylor of Peru, a retired elementary teacher, the Foundation has led fundraising and financial support for innovative programs and services and encouraged generous community and alumni donors.
Scholarships have provided financial
support and reduced the burden for thousands of students so they can achieve their educational dreams. A total of $377,000 was awarded to 327 students for the 2025-2026 school year.
For students like James Hutton, these scholarships are life-changing. Following an injury, Hutton found it difficult to find funding to enter the EMS field.
“The Foundation helped me afford to attend,” Hutton said. “Which in turn helps me, helps you, your friends, and your family. So, by helping one, you have helped many.”
The Foundation invites the community to help change the lives of students.
Reservations are $75 per guest or $500 for a table of eight and will be accepted by mail or online at www.ivcc.edu/goldencelebration through March 13. Donations also will be accepted through the website.
For more information, contact Tracy Beattie, Executive Director of the IVCC Foundation, at tracy_beattie@ivcc.edu or 815-224-0550.
Bring unforgettable charm to your St. Patrick’s Day season with historical presenter, Michelle Gibbons’ whimsical portrayal of a lively female leprechaun, complete with laughter, lore, and a dash of mischief. Her engaging program blends the true history of St. Patrick’s Day with fascinating tales of leprechaun origins, plus hilarious stories from her life as a leprechaun and the chaos that ensues when everyone tries to catch her before she disappears with the pot of gold.
Putnam County Community Center Thursday, March 12, 2026 12:30 pm
Remember to confirm Lunch at least 24 hours ahead
PUTNAM COUNTY COMMUNITY CENTER 128 FIRST ST STANDARD, IL 61363 1(815)339-2711 or 1(800) 757-4579 WWW.PCASERVICES.ORG
Photos by Scott Anderson
ANGELINE KAY TROGLIO
Born: June 22, 1935 in Peru, Illinois
Died: February 24, 2026 in Princeton, Illinois
Angeline Kay (Brejc) Troglio, of Mark, passed away on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at the Goldwater Nursing Home in Princeton.
Angie was born on June 22, 1935 to Frank and Mercedes (Engel) Brejc in Peru, IL. She was the second of 4, 2 sisters, Mary, and Lois, and one brother, Frank “Sonny”. She celebrated her 22 birthday by marrying the love of her life, Donald, on June 22, 1957.
Angie and Don raised two boys, Donald (Nick), and Kevin, in Mark, in a house made over many times by Don, and where she resid-
ed until the last months of her life.
Angie’s other love was sewing, working at Westclox, the Spring Valley Garment Factory and Bergner’s, before starting her own bridal business, Town and Country Brides, in 1982.
Many people in Putnam County and the surrounding areas can say they got their wedding and bridesmaid dress, or fitted for their prom or wedding tux with Angie.
When she first started her bridal shop, she made all the dresses by hand, until her reputation got too big and she got too busy to hand make the dresses. She did free alterations for all her brides and bridesmaids through out her time in business - continuing those alterations for her kids, grand kids, great grand kids and all their friends for the rest of her days.
Angie was a devoted Catholic, attending St. Joseph’s in Peru, before moving to Mark and attending Sacred Heart church throughout her life. She was on the Alter and Rosary Society.
Angie also sat on the Putnam County Community Center board, and could be found shopping with her sister Lois every Thursday for decades.
After retirement, Angie and Don traveled, enjoyed trips to the gambling boat, dinners with their large social group, and taking care of their great-grand kids, Maggie, Ava, Elijah, Dylan, Sean and Landon.
Angie is survived by her sons Nick (Rose Folger), Kevin (Sandy), grandchildren, Jennifer (Rob) Spratt, Gwen (Joe) King, and Daniel (Holly) Troglio, great grandchildren Maggie and Dylan Spratt, Elijah and Sean King, and Ava and Landon Troglio.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Don, in 2015, her parents, sister Mary, brother Sonny, mother and father-inlaw Violet and Pete, sister and brother-in-law Marilyn and Louis Miroux; nephews Don and Dave Rigogna, and niece Julie Anglavar.
Pallbearers are Daniel Troglio, Rob Spratt, Joe King, Dylan Spratt, Elijah King, Sean King. Honorary pallbearers are Maggie Spratt and Ava and Landon Troglio.
Visitation will be 5 to 8 on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at Dysart-Cofoid Funeral chapel and 9 to 10 a.m. Monday, March 2, at the funeral home. Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10:30 a.m. at Padre Pio Parish (Sacred Heart) Catholic Church in Granville.
Donations can be made to the family to be distributed among Angie’s favorite charities. Online condolences can be made to her family at www.dcfuneral.com
Larry Joe Boyd, 80, of Green Castle, Missouri, passed on February 23, 2026.
Arrangements entrusted to Dysart - Cofoid Funeral Chapel, Granville, IL www.dcfunerals. com
How to submit: Send obituary information to putnamobits@shawlocal.com or call 815-632-2534. Notices are accepted until 5 p.m. Friday for Wednesday’s edition. Obituaries also appear online at shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record, where you may sign the guest book, send flowers or make a memorial donation.
LARRY JOE BOYD
La Salle Native is top doctor for USA Hockey
By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com
If you rooted for the USA Hockey teams in the Olympics, then you also cheered on a La Salle native who serves as Chief Medical Officer for USA Hockey.
Dr. Michael Stuart, 68, graduated St. Bede Academy Games in 1975 and then left the La Salle-Peru area to pursue a medical career. That career led to medical roles in five Winter Olympic games.
After completing his undergraduate studies at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, Stuart earned a medical degree in 1983 at Rush Medical College in Chicago. He completed a five-year residency at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, followed by a sports medicine fellowship at the University of Western Ontario.
He spent his entire professional career as an orthopedic surgeon at the Mayo Clinic, retiring in January 2024. He still resides in Rochester with his wife, the former Nancy Cosgrove of Peru, and has four children.
Their sons, Michael, Colin and Mark, all played professional hockey, including the National Hockey League. Daughter Cristin played hockey for Division 1 Boston College. Mark currently is an assistant coach with the Edmonton Oilers.
Stuart discussed his evolution from orthopedic surgeon and hockey dad to his expansive role with USA Hockey with Shaw Local News Network. Although Olympic medals are reserved for athletes, Stuart has two gold medals and a bronze medal from serving as the USA Hockey men’s team physician at world championships.
How exciting was it to be there in Milano Cortina for the men’s and the women’s victories? Tell me about the atmosphere.
Stuart: The atmosphere at the Santagiulia arena in Milano was incredible. The energy level, the quality of the competitions, and the overtime victories by both the USA women’s and men’s team in their gold medal games were outstanding. I have a very personal relationship with USA Hockey as the Chief Medical Officer and have served as
the USA Hockey men’s team physician at multiple World Championships, the World Cup of Hockey, and the Olympic Games.
These victories in Milano were especially meaningful for me, since I was on the USA Hockey bench as the team doctor in Vancouver in 2010, when Canada won the gold medal in overtime after Sidney Crosby scored the game-winning goal. I was also on the bench in Sochi when T.J. Oshie scored multiple shootout goals to beat the host team, Russia, and when Canada beat the USA in the semifinal game by one goal. This victory in Milano was very sweet for USA Hockey, because it’s been 46 years since the 1980 Miracle on Ice team won gold.
How did you come to be involved in Olympic hockey?
Stuart: I got involved as a team doctor for USA Hockey way back in 1990, and I’ve been traveling with USA Hockey teams ever since.
I then took over as the Chief Medical Officer. I chair the USA Hockey’s Safety and Protective Equipment Committee and oversee all the safety and injury prevention initiatives. I am also a member of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Medical Committee, the only person from the United States. We strive to improve safety for the sport of ice hockey throughout the world.
I am also an IIHF Medical Supervisor for World Championships and now the Olympic Winter Games. That role is quite different. The Medical Supervisor is responsible for all aspects of medical care at the World Championships and the Olympic Games.
This includes the emergency action plan, injury reporting, doping control (drug testing), and concussion spotting. This is a supervisory role where I don’t treat athletes but ensure the highest quality of care.
Were you personally a hockey player or did you come from a family that followed hockey? Tell me about your familiarity with the sport.
Stuart: I was a Blackhawks fan, but we didn’t have organized hockey or an indoor ice arena in
La Salle-Peru. We moved to Rochester, Minnesota, in 1983 with four young children who got involved in youth hockey, and I became the team physician for the Rochester Mustangs of the United States Hockey League.
Our four children went on to play Division 1 college hockey, and our three sons played professional hockey, including in the National Hockey League. I became team doctor for multiple USA hockey teams and, eventually, the chief medical officer, which led to my involvement as team doctor in world championships, the World Cup of Hockey, and the Olympic Games.
My orthopedic sports medicine career at Mayo Clinic allowed me to assemble a research team, which is still active in ice hockey and concussion research.
We have published numerous articles on the safety of ice hockey, including injury epidemiology, facial protection, and concussion prevention. I have enjoyed a long
OBITUARIES
ANNETTE MARIE GRIFFIN
Born: September 30, 1963 in Peoria, Illinois
Died: February 8, 2026 in Granville, Illinois
Annette Marie Griffin, 63, of Granville quietly passed away on Sunday, February 8, 2026 at her residence while surrounded by her family.
She was born on September 30, 1963 in Peoria IL, to Fred and Barbara (Lutes) Colwell. She lived life to the fullest and enjoyed every moment with her friends and family. The memories made will be carried on in those that had the opportunity to be around her. She was an amazing mother and grandmother. She sacrificed and enjoyed watching her kids grow up and become parents all while teaching them along the way. She took joy in watching her grandchildren play sports, go to dances, even learn to drive. She loved her mom, dad, and sisters; and never missed a chance to tell stories about how she grew up. She was the biggest bears and cubs fan no matter how the season went; she was always optimistic. She was a machine operator
career as a hockey dad, a hockey fan, a hockey doctor, a hockey researcher, and now a hockey supervisor.
Is this a full-time endeavor for you now, or are you still an active physician in private practice?
Stuart: I am retired from Mayo Clinic, so I no longer see patients or do surgery. My life now is centered around our four children, 11 grandchildren, friends, and spending time at our lake cabin. But I remain very active, leading a Mayo Clinic hockey research team and working for both USA Hockey and the International Ice Hockey Medical Federation.
I attend meetings and I travel extensively for World Championships and the Olympic Games. I am a volunteer and not an employee, but hockey is obviously a passion because of my long career in the sport. I now enjoy watching our grandchildren play hockey and other sports.
at Mennies Machine Company in Granville IL, for 26 years; she always talked about her coworkers and considered most family.
Survivors include her mother, Barbara Colwell; her son, Joshua (Adrienne) Griffin, and her daughter, Kristin (Nicholas) Jagg; Eight grandchildren, Taylor, Mckenna, Caleb, Emersyn, Lilyann, Braylon, Gavin and Ethan; Seven sisters,Vicky Karr of IA, Yvonne Boyd of IL, Diana Wolf of IL, Kim Haig of IL, Connie Colwell of NV, Kathy Marenda, of IL and Michelle Emery, of IN.
She was preceded in death by her father, Fred Colwell.
No services will be held; she chose to have a celebration of life prior to her passing, where she was able to say goodbye in her way. She was grateful to all who were able to come, and loved the Pink Heals for the compassion and love they showed.
Dysart – Cofoid Funeral Chapel will be assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to her family at www.dcfunerals.com
TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY
1927: Babe Ruth becomes the highest-paid player in MLB history when he signs a 3-year, $70,000 per season contract with the New York Yankees
PCJH volleyball teams take second at Little Tri-County Conference tournament
Photos provided by Shannon Jenkins
ABOVE: The 7th grade Lady Pumas took second place at the Little Tri-County Conference volleyball tournament, defeating Midlan and Lowpoint-Washburn before falling to El Paso-Gridley in two sets in the championship match. Team members are (front row, left to right) Emily Reyes, Zakari Walker, Shaylee Engel, Reagan Doelhling, Aubree smith and Reese Lenkaitis; and (back row) Aleena Ahlstrom, Emily Pumdsack, Sophia Jackson, Madison Actis, Allyza Mucu, Lindsey Trinidad, Guiliana Cimei, Brynn Zimmerlein and Coach Shannon Jenkins. Below: The 8th grade Lady Pumas took second place at the Little Tri-County Conference volleyball tournament, defeating Fieldcrest and Lowpoint-Washburn before falling to El Paso-Gridley in the three sets in the championship match. Team members are (front row, left to right) Sophie Sheppard, Anni Judd, Jolene Poole, Natalie Guadiana, Anahi and Avila Avery Lenkaitis; and (back row) Ariana McMullen, Savannah Grasser, Alyssa Mucu, Izzy Bartoluzzi, Murphy Hopkins, EliMae Glynn, Jaylynn Dickey and Guiliana Cimei.
Slow start, no problem for St. Bede in win over PC
By KEVIN HIERONYMUS khieronymus@shawmedia.com
Gus Burr was not too worried when St. Bede fell behind 11-4 early in the Class 1A regional quarterfinal on its home floor against Putnam County.
He knew the Bruins soon would right the ship, and they did, riding an 11-0 run to a 15-13 lead at the end of the quarter. The Bruins were just beginning, outscoring the Panthers 18-8 in the second quarter to build a 12-point halftime lead on the way to a 59-45 win.
“I don’t think we were too worried at the beginning. We know what we’re capable of doing and who we are,” said Burr, who led the Bruins with 17 points. “We’ve been off to slow starts multiple times this year. We overcome a lot, and I think we have trust in each other and went out and got that lead back and never looked back.”
Burr scored St. Bede first six points of the game, including two free throws to start the Bruins on their 11-0 run. Gino Ferrari and Graham Ross followed with putbacks with Geno Dinges following with a 3-point play with a layup and free throw off a steal.
“We started like we were kind of
Scott Anderson
Putnam County’s Johnathon Stunkel grabs a rebound over St. Bede’s Geno Dinges during the Class 1A Regional quarterfinal game on Monday, Feb. 23, 2026 at St. Bede Academy. The Bruins won 59-45.
stuck in mud. Gus Burr got to the hole and made some free throws, and he
really jump-started us. Then we started picking up buckets from everybody after that,” St. Bede coach Brian Hanson said. “The first game is always tough in the postseason. It’s win or go home. So I’m proud of them. They hustled their butts and got it done.”
Alec Tomsha kept up the defensive pressure for St. Bede with a steal and layup to open the second quarter for a 17-13 Bruins lead.
The green and white wave continued with two free throws and a drive by Burr with Ferrari scoring on the break and adding a layup to run the Bruins lead to 27-16 with 3:30 left in the second quarter.
Ferrari scored on another drive, Ross sank two free throws and Alec Tomsha scored on a putback to put the Bruins up 33-18.
Jacob Furar hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer to draw the Panthers within 33-21 at the half.
The Bruins forced the Panthers into 14 turnovers at the half while committing just seven of their own.
“We wanted to pressure a little bit. We got some hands on some basketballs and that got us going, too,” Hanson said. ”I thought Geno Dinges really
played good ball pressure out top. There was a lot of guys that got involved in that. That was big for us. Really helped.”
PC coach Jared Sale said the Bruins’ pressure got to the Panthers.
“It was 11-4, and they upped the pressure a little bit. Got us going a little faster. Obviously, our decision-making at that point not super great,” he said. “We got it back down to 10. I think to start the third, they just hit some big shots and we missed some open ones and that’s how it goes.”
St. Bede ran its lead to 19 points to start the fourth quarter and Drew Carboni got them back there at 59-40 with a late 3.
Andrew Gibson provided the Panthers with a spark in the final three minutes with five points off the bench, including a 3 at the final horn to make it a 14-point game in the end.
Juan Ramirez led PC (9-23) with 10 points, with Furar adding nine, Braden Bickerman eight and Alan Castro seven.
Note: The Bruins went on to defeat Dwight in the semifinals before falling to Marquette in the title game.
March 3: Game 1 - 2 LaSalle-Peru (2010) vs. 1 Morton (28-4)
March 4: Game 2 - 1 Kankakee (28-1) vs. 2 East Peoria (27-4), 7 p.m.
March 6: Championship - Winners 1-2, 7 p.m.
- Kevin Hieronymus
MAINTENANCE ASSISTANT
The Village of Hennepin is seeki ng a full-time Maintenance Assistant. Compensat ion commensurate with exper ience, medi cal insurance stipend, reti rement stipend, PTO and 10 Paid Holidays per year
Position is responsible for:
· Reports to the vi ll age Maintenance Supervisor
· Common maintenance, cleaning and repair of V ill age ow ne d buildings, grounds, and equipment
· Operation of village tr ucks, tool s and equipment
· Snowplowing and ice cont rol
· Landscaping & Mowing
· Street pavement and maintaining storm sewers / repair work
· Seasonal decorati on setting and event work
· Ot her duties as assi gned may incl ude, basic elect rical, plumbing and carpent ry
· Welding skills pref er red
Minimum Quali fications:
· Live in Putnam County
· Hi gh School diploma or GED
· Ability to li ft and carry 50 pounds
· Maintain eff ective working relationships with the publ ic and Village empl oyees & tr ustees
· Have or obtain within 6 months of hire, a vali d cl ass B CD L li cense.
Work Schedul e and Requirements:
· Regular work schedule will be 8 hours per day, aligned with the Village's normal working hours
· Overtime is limited, how ever there wi ll be times when it's mandatory. For example, whenever there is an accumulati on of snow
· Before hi re, potenti al candidates must agree to a backgr ound check, reference check and will be requir ed to provide document ation verif ying their legal right to work in the Unit ed Stat es, as requir ed by law.
· This position is considered at-wil l employment.
For consid eration, please email your resume (or list of qualifications an d experience) to mayor@villageofhennepin.com for questions please call 815-326-7189
RICK & CINDY GANSCHOW RETIREMENT AUCTION
Full line of row crop farm equipment offered at Public Auction, located at 3281 1500 N Ave Sheffield, IL 61361. Nearest exit 45 off of I-80, Bureau County Illinois.
SATURDAY, MARCH 14TH, 2026 LIVE @ 10 A.M.
Auction will be Live & Online, Online items to start @ 12 Noon
Number system will be used – ID Required Terms: Cash or good check Lunch Stand: Faith’s Fabulous Treats Seller: RICK & CINDY GANSCHOW
815-866-2009
REDIGER AUCTION
107 S. WEST ST. WYANET, IL 61379 815-699-7999
Jeremy – Jon – Brik
LASALLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS
LAND AUCTION
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2026 AT 1:00 PMCT
75.74 ACRES± (SUBJECT TO SURVEY) 1 TRACT
The Joe & Josephine Datti Trusts are located 2 miles northwest of Ottawa, IL with desirable Interstate 80 access road frontage. It is further described as being located in Section 4, T33N-R3E, Ottawa Township, LaSalle County, Illinois.
The Datti farm represents Class A Soils and sells with an open lease for the upcoming 2026 crop year. Close to city services with unlimited development potential!
JOE & JOSEPHINE DATTI TRUSTS
AMERICAN COMMERCIAL BANK & TRUST, N.A. TRUSTEE
Representing Attorney: Richard Burton | (815) 433-3111 Burton, Fuller & Associates, P.C. 227 West Madison Street, Ottawa, IL 61350 Auction Managers: Kevin Haas (309) 264-7767 & Eric Ifft (309) 825-3730
PUBLIC NOTICE
CIRCUI T COURT OF THE TENTH
JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
PUTNAM COUNTY, ILLINOIS
ESTATE OF ROBERT THEODORE GULLEY
DECEASED
No. 2 026- PR-1 CL AIM NOTICE
Notice is given of the death of ROBERT THEODORE GULLEY of the Village of Standard, Putnam County, Illinois. Letters of office as Independent Administrator were issued on January 29, 2026, to Jan Gulley Gerdin, 1324 Canterbury Lane, Glenview, IL 60025 whose attorney is Nicholas Balestri of Bernabei, Balestri & Fiocchi, 149 Gooding St., LaSalle, IL 61301
Claims against the estate may be e-filed in the Office of the Circuit Clerk, Putnam County Courthouse, 120 N. 4th Street, P.O. Box 207, Hennepin, IL 61327 or with the repesent ative or both, within 6 months from the date of first publication of this Notice If claim notice is personally mailed or delivered to a creditor of the above estate, then claims must be filed in the above entitled cause within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery, whichever is later. Any claims not filed within the above periods are barred. Efiling is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with lim ited exem ptions To e- file, you must first create an account with an efiling service provider Visit https://efile illinoiscourts.gov/serv ice-providers to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble efiling, visit http:// ww w.illinoiscourts.go v/FAQ/gethelp.asp
Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the Attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.
Dated this 23rd day of February 2026
Attorney Nicholas Balestri Attorney for the Estate 149 Gooding Street LaSalle, IL 61301
815-223-6600
(Published in Putnam County Record Mar. 4, 11, 18, 2026) 2308411
PUBLIC NOTICE
In the Circuit Court of the 10th Judicial Circuit Putnam Co., IL Village of McNabb, an IL Municipal Corp., Plaintiff, Vs. Chase D. Oliver; Putnam County Trustee; Unknown Owners; & Non-Record Claimants, Defendants. No. 26-MR-1
Notice of Pendency of Action
The requisite affidavits for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given you, Chase D. Oliver, Putnam County Trustee, Unknown Ow ners & Non- Record Claimants, that the above- entitled Complaint for Equitable & Other Relief Seeking Demolition of an Unsafe Building was filed on February 18, 2026, & is now pending in the Circuit Court of the 10th Judicial Circuit, Putnam Co., IL. And you, Chase D. Oliver, Putnam County Trustee, Unknown Owners & Non- Record Claimants, are further given notice that summ ons was duly issued out of the said Court against you as provided by law.
1. The name of the Plaintiff and the case number are identified above.
2. The court in which this action was brought is identified above
3. Chase D. Oliver is the name of the title holder of record
4. A legal description of the real estate sufficient to identify it with reasonable certainty is: Lots 9 and 10 in Block 11 in the Town, Now Village of McNabb, excepting therefrom the underlying coal, fireclay and other minerals, together with the right to dig, mine and remove the same without entering upon the surface thereof, all lying and being situated in the County of Putnam , in the State of Illinois.
5. A common address or description of the location of the real estate is 411 W. Fifth Street, McNabb, IL & the PIN is 04-00- 049095.
Now, therefore, unless you Chase D. Oliver, Putnam County Trustee, Unknown Owners & Non- Record Claimants, file your answer to the Complaint in said action or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the said Circuit Court of the 10th Judicial Circuit, Putnam Co., IL, held in the courthouse at 120 N. 4th St., Hennepin, IL, on or before April 20, 2026, default may be entered against you at any time after that day & a judgment entered in accordance with the prayer of said Complaint.
Carly R. Zielinski, Clerk of the Circuit Court February 20, 2026
(Published in Putnam County Record Mar. 4, 11, 18, 2026) 2308401
NOTICE TO VOTERS
ALL PERSONS MAY REGISTER TO VOTE who are citizens of the United States and will be 18 years of age on or before the March 17, 2026, GENERAL PRIMARY ELECTION, and will have lived in the State of Illinois and the precinct of residence for 30 days before the date of the General Prim ary Election If you are regi stered but your latest Voter Identification Card does not reflect your current address, you must report the changes in writing. If your name has changed, you must re-register.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2026 , IS T HE LAST DAY FOR VOTER REGIS TRAT ION OR TRANSFER of registration with the County Clerk and Deputy Registrars before the GENERAL PRIMARY ELECTION.
EARL Y VOTING will be conducted from FEBRUARY 5, 2026, through MARCH 16, 2026, during the hours of 9:00 A.M. through 4:00 P.M., Monday through Friday and Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 9:00 a.m.NOON at the Putnam County Clerk?s Office.
VOTE BY MAIL will be conducted from FEBRUARY 5, 2026, through MARCH 17, 2026. The last day a ballot can be mailed out to a voter is Thursday, MARCH 12, 2026. Ballots must be postmarked or returned by MARCH 17, 2026.
VOTE BY MAIL APPLICAT ION
Please go to the Putnam County Website https://putnam il.gov - click the link in the Yellow News Alert box.
GRACE PERIOD registration or change of address w ill begin on FEBRUARY 18, 2026, and end on MARCH 16, 2026, only within the County Clerk's Office Use of this privilege requires the applicant to vote on the day of registration or change of address. On Election Day, you may register, change your address, and vote at the Clerk?s office only.
**Please visit the link on the Putnamil.gov website in the Yellow News Alert box to see if you are registered, where you vote, and if you have requested a vote-by-mail ballot. ** OR
Illinois residents may check their registration online by going to www .elections.il.gov , clicking on “voters,” and then clicking “Am I Registered to Vote in Illinois”.
If you have any questions regarding your registration, please call the office before the deadline at 815-925-7129. TINA DOLDER
Putnam County Clerk, Recorder & Election Authority (Published in Putnam County Record Feb. 4, 18, Mar. 4, 11, 2026) 2302387
