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IVCC summer and fall class registration begins April 1 Illinois Valley Community College’s summer and fall classes registration will begin at 9 a.m. April 1.
IVCC enrollment services director Tom Quigley recommends students register without delay so they secure their choice of classes, avoid last-minute stress and set themselves up for success.
The course offerings can be viewed on the college’s self-service system. Students will not be able to lock in a schedule until registration opens. New students are encouraged to apply first for enrollment, schedule necessary placement tests and schedule appointments to meet with a counselor for registration. The students can also begin a financial aid application. The summer classes begin May 18 and June 10, and tuition is due May 13. The fall semester’s tuition is due July 29, and begins Aug. 14. Students receiving scholarships or financial aid must contact the college’s cashier office to hold classes. To pay or set up a payment plan, call 815-224-0213 or visit the Illinois Valley Community College cashier’s office, 815 N. Orlando Smith St., Oglesby.
The college’s self-service system can also process payments and manage academic profiles. To access the system, visit ivcc-ss.colleague.elluciancloud.com/ Student/Courses.
Illinois Valley Community College will also hold an Eagles Launch preview on Thursday, Aug. 13. The preview will allow incoming students to find classrooms and become familiar with student resources. For more information, call 815-224-0447 or 815-224-0213.
Illinois Valley Community College recently announced truck driver trainees Thomas Scholle and Douglas Brue were the first recipients of the Steve Mobley Memorial Scholarship presented through the IVCC foundation.
Scholle and Brue were awarded $4,000 through the scholarship. The Steve Mobley Memorial Scholarship was established after Mobley died in 2025. He was part of the first classes to attend the IVCC Truck Driver Training Program said the experience changed his life because it gave him a new direction and opened the door to a
successful career.
Mobley began to work in the trucking industry and bought his first truck in 2015. He also expanded the company, Brush Kreek Trucking, and acquired additional trucks and hired new drivers.
Brue said he is grateful for the scholarship award. “I did not know Steve, but from what I could tell, we may have had a thing or two in common. I have a large family to support, and this scholarship means the world to me.” Brue said in a news release.
Scholle said this experience will help him serve his community as a lieutenant with the Spring Valley Fire Protection District.
“This scholarship is more than an opportunity for me; it is an investment in the safety of our community.” Scholle also said in the release.
To contribute to the Steve Mobley Memorial Scholarship, call 815-224-0550 or send a check via the mail to the IVCC Foundation, 815 N. Orlando Smith Road, Oglesby, with the Steve Mobley Scholarship in the memo.
Arts of Starved Rock Country Fund accepting grant applications
The Arts of Starved Rock Country Fund recently opened its grant application process for art programs, projects and performances scheduled to run from Wednesday, July 1, through Thursday, Dec. 31.
The grants are available to nonprofit organizations serving La Salle, Bureau and Putnam counties. Proof of nonprofit status is required and a 501(c)(3) letter copy from the Internal Revenue Service must be attached to the grant application. Libraries and schools are eligible if the grants are used for charitable purposes serving a broad range of students, members or the community at large.
The grant applications are available online at srccf.org/artgrant/#grant-information. The application deadline is Wednesday, April 15. Grant recipients will be notified in early May.
For more information, call 815-252-2906 or visit srccf.org.
– Shaw Local News Network
Shaw Local News Network file photo
Illinois Valley Community College’s summer and fall classes registration will begin at 9 a.m. April 1.
Over 100 gather for No Kings rally in Princeton
More than 100 people gathered for a “No Kings” rally on Saturday at Rotary Park in Princeton. – Scott Anderson
Photos by Scott Anderson
TOP LEFT: Protesters gather for a No Kings rally on Saturday at Rotary Park in Princeton. TOP RIGHT: An aerial view of hundreds of protesters gathering for a No Kings rally on Saturday at Rotary Park in Princeton.
ABOVE: Protesters Mary Mickow and Marybeth Bouchard of Princeton walk to the No Kings rally.
LEFT: Protesters gather for a No Kings rally.
Ottawa area sees spring changes: closures, openings and transitions
By STEPHANIE JAQUINS
Shaw Local News Network correspondent
B Dominique Boutique announced it will close its doors in mid-to-late April after five years in business.
The owner said the decision comes as she prepares to welcome a baby in June and focus more on her family.
She said the closure of the Ottawa store is not due to a lack of community support, thanking customers for their loyalty over the years.
“The relationships that I have made through the years have been so incredibly life changing. I’ve cried with you, laughed with you, danced with you, loved with you and so much more. You guys took a chance on me and my girls and the success and support that you have given us has been out of this world. So, with that being said, know that us closing isn’t because of the lack of love from you. This decision was so hard because of you all.”
The owner plans to remain active through pop-up events featuring B Unique Jewelry.
The boutique is located at 542 W. Norris Drive.
Former
Peru
restaurant reopening in Ottawa
Stubbz Galley has found a new home in Ottawa.
The restaurant that was located at the South Shore Boat Club in Peru is opening this spring at the Starved Rock
OBITUARIES
ROBERT STAPP WHEELER
Born: June 22, 1947 in Princeton, Illinois
Died: March 22, 2026 in Princeton, Illinois
Robert Stapp Wheeler, age 78, of Tiskilwa, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 22, 2026, surrounded by the family he cherished. Born into a proud line of Illinois farmers, Robert spent his life working the same soil tended by his ancestors. Farming was not only his livelihood, it was also his heritage, his passion, and the legacy he joyfully passed on to his children and grandchildren. He believed deeply in stewardship of the land, community, and hard work, values he lived every day.
B Dominique Boutique announced it will close its doors in mid-to-late April after five years in business.
Marina, 1130 N. 27th Road, Ottawa.
The restaurant focuses on seafood and is owned by Steven and Melissa
Jensen. Steven is the chef and has more than 20 years of experience cooking in area restaurants.
The restaurant is set to open in April.
WCMY to air NBC World News amid CBS termination
After more than 100 years on the air, CBS Radio News will go off the air.
Beginning at midnight Monday, WCMY in Ottawa will no longer carry the CBS Radio News at the top of the hour every hour.
In place of CBS’s hourly radio news, WCMY will transition to NBC World News, sports and weather every Monday through Friday at 6, 7, and 8 a.m., noon, and 4 p.m. WCMY will continue to offer local news coverage at 7 and 8 a.m. with Jay LeSeure, and at noon and 4 p.m. with Jim Miller.
OSF gift shops go cashless
OSF HealthCare recently announced that its gift shops are cashless.
The OSF HealthCare Interstate 80 Gift Shops in Ottawa, Mendota and Streator transitioned to cashless payments.
Gift shop purchases will be made using credit or debit cards only.
The Times / NewsTribune / Bureau County Republican is committed to keeping readers up to date with business happenings in the area. Much of our reporting relies on what we see and hear, but we’re also reaching out to readers for tips on business items. If you have a tip to share for Eyes on Enterprise, email newsroom@mywebtimes.com.
In addition to his dedication to agriculture, Robert honorably served in the Illinois Army National Guard, carrying his sense of duty and service throughout his life. He was a committed leader in Wheatland Township, serving for many years as both Trustee and Township Supervisor. He also served as Marshall-Putnam Farm Bureau President, along with many other positions and committees, where he advocated for local farmers and worked tirelessly to strengthen the agricultural community he loved.
On January 31, 1970, Robert married Linda Sue Pratt at the Henry United Methodist Church, and together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and tradition. They raised two children—a son, Robert S Wheeler II (Nicole Doyle), and a daughter, Janel L Wheeler Goodale (Trent Goodale)—who were the pride of his life.
Robert was blessed with five grandchildren:
Malena (Joshua) Cook, Mallory (Tyler) Wood, Trent Goodale II (Remi Rawlings), Erah Goodale and Phillip Goodale.
He was also blessed with three great grandchildren—Cora Cook, Doyle Wood, and Louise Wood--each of whom brought him immense joy. He rarely missed a school event, ballgame, or opportunity to brag about them.
His happiest moments were spent with his family, whether gathered around the kitchen table, riding along in the tractor, or celebrating holidays on the farm.
He is also survived by three sisters, Marcia Johnson, Lura Hamilton and Lois Crook and sister-in-law Colleen Wheeler.
Bob will be remembered for his steady kindness, unwavering work ethic, deep love for his family, and the quiet wisdom he shared with all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his, parents: Leslie & Erah (Cecelia) Wheeler and brother,
George Wheeler.
Visitation will be held from 4:00–7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Henry United Methodist Church.
Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, also at Henry United Methodist Church, with burial at Henry Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be directed to: Tiskilwa Ambulance, Marshall Putnam Farm Bureau Foundation or Henry United Methodist Church.
Dysart – Cofoid Funeral Chapel will be assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to his family at www.dcfunerals.com
Stephanie Jaquins
IDNR announces Starved Rock State Park trail closure
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources recently announced that French Canyon trail access at Starved Rock State Park will be closed through June.
The trail will be closed to accommodate the park’s ongoing trail improvement projects.
The trail closures include trailhead access to the top of French Canyon, Starved Rock Lodge parking lot trails and the French Canyon trail behind the park’s visitor center. The closures also will include parts of Brown Bluff and Campan-
ula trails.
Starved Rock State Park’s existing trail closures include Tonti Canyon and Tonti Bridge, the La Salle Canyon to Tonti Canyon trail, and the west entrance’s staircase to the boat ramp area. Hikers should not access areas with construction signage and caution tape.
The park, lodge and amenities will remain open. The park’s east end access is available from the visitor center. Visitors can follow the Lovers’ Leap trail. Starved Rock State Park’s west end to St. Louis Canyon will not be affected.
For more information, visit the park’s visitor center or the Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks Facebook pages.
Learn to spot clouds on Mars on April 2 in Granville
By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com
The Putnam Public Library District’s Granville Branch invites the public to join a Citizen Science project, “Do NASA Live – Cloudspotting on Mars,” at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 2.
Have you ever wondered what’s happening in the Martian sky? Scientists are eager to find out, and now the public can help. Participants will review NASA imagery to identify clouds over Mars, contributing to scientific research on daily and seasonal weather patterns.
Using data from the Mars Climate Sounder aboard the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, attendees will help detect high-altitude water-ice and carbon-dioxide clouds. These observations support ongoing research into Mars’s climate and provide clues about the planet’s past, including conditions that may have supported
liquid water. Participants will learn to recognize and label cloud features, enabling scientists to study how Martian clouds form and evolve over time.
The program will be in-person at the Granville Branch and livestreamed by SciStarter, allowing participants to contribute data and interact with scientists in real time. Attendees should bring their own devices – laptops are recommended, followed by tablets – and charging cords for the two-hour program.
This event is part of Acts of Science: Connected, a Citizen Science Month collaboration with SciStarter and NASA Citizen Science.
No science background is required –just curiosity and an interest in exploring Mars. The program is geared to adults and youth ages 13 and older.
The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 815-3392038 or visit the library at 214 S. McCoy St., Granville.
Scott Anderson file photo
An aerial view of the fall colors near Lovers Leap on Oct. 31, 2025 at Starved Rock State Park.
Leverage AI as thought partner to boost productivity
By MARTHA BLUM mblum@shawmedia.com
Using artificial intelligence as a thought partner is the best way to leverage this technology to its fullest.
“When we use AI as a thought partner, we are allowing it to work with us to make the best versions of ourselves,” said Ben Sondgeroth, owner of Exploring EdTech.
“There is a big fear that AI is going to mean the loss of the ability for humans to have their own judgment and then we lose out on human relationships,” said Sondgeroth during a presentation at the BASF Innovation Symposium.
“That’s a legitimate concern; however, if you use it as a partner instead of just doing things for you, you can talk to more customers and have better relationships,” he said. “AI can help free up your time, but only if it is used responsibly and correctly.”
AI is a computer that predicts patterns and data.
“It cannot think for itself, it cannot create new content and it does not have an imagination,” Sondgeroth said. “It takes information that it has been trained on and it is able to give that information to you in a way that makes sense for you.”
AI is going to replace some jobs, the educational technology leader said, but it is not going to take everybody’s job.
“And it is going to create a lot of jobs,”
Sondgeroth said.
“If we don’t embrace AI or use it, the person who is using it and doing the same role as you is going to accomplish his tasks faster and he is going to get to another farm quicker than you,” he said. “That person is ultimately going to become the person who takes your job because he can do more without actually spending more time to do it.”
Over the past three years, Sondgeroth has fully embraced AI.
“I don’t think I have been more creative or more efficient and productive than ever before,” he said. “It’s all because I am able to use artificial intelligence to help me accomplish what I set
out to do that day.”
Many people are using AI and might not even realize it.
“Goggle Maps uses AI to help you get to places,” Sondgeroth said. “If you have Siri or Alexa, you used AI.”
When searching on Goggle, the AI summary at the top of the response was generated by AI.
“AI is all around us, so it’s about maximizing it now,” the educational technology leader said.
A person does not have to be a computer scientist to get the most out of AI, Sondgeroth said.
“AI systems are trained on trillions of pieces of data and they are only able to work if they have the data they need to give you a response,” he said. “Those pieces of data are coming from across the Internet.”
All the pieces of information go into the database, Sondgeroth said, and they get broken up into a bunch of little pieces.
“When you ask a question, it finds all those pieces and gives you a response, predicting that is what you want it to do for you,” he said.
One word can make the whole answer wrong.
“So, as awesome as AI is, this is where we always must have caution when using it,” Sondgeroth said. “We always want to be proofreading everything that we do.”
Proper prompting is very important when using Gemini, ChatGPT, Claude or
Copilot.
“When you are prompting, make sure you include three things — context, specificity and structure,” Sondgeroth said.
“Think of it as you’re talking to another person,” he said. “If you ask a bad question or a less detailed question to somebody, you are not going to get a very good answer.”
When engaging with AI, don’t stop with the first thing it tells you, Sondgeroth said.
“Ask questions, follow up and tell it, that it is wrong,” he said. “Challenge it, just like you would somebody in your office. That’s how you get the most out of artificial intelligence.”
AI cannot do all the work for a person.
“You are still the expert and you are the one that has watched that field for decades and has all the data,” Sondgeroth said. “ChatGPT can just help you make sense of it. That’s what AI is good for.”
If AI can save 10 minutes a day answering emails, 20 minutes summarizing notes and 30 minutes analyzing spreadsheets or data, that one hour per day can equal over 250 hours per year.
“Then you can spend more time with humans, get more work done and be more efficient,” Sondgeroth said.
“Don’t enter a world where AI thinks for us, enter a world where AI works with us,” he said.
For more information, go to exploringedtech.com.
AgriNews photo/Martha Blum
Ben Sondgeroth, owner of Exploring EdTech.
JEFFREY L. “JEFF” LUTES
Born: November 3, 1958 in Kewanee, Illinois
Died: March 20, 2026 in McNabb, Illinois
Jeffrey L. “Jeff” Lutes of McNabb, IL passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on March 20, 2026 following a long courageous battle with Multiple Sclerosis.
Jeff was born on November 3, 1958 in Kewanee, IL to Robert I. and Marylin J. (Emmons) Lutes. He married Linda Johnson on July 31, 1981 at First Evangelical Lutheran church in Varna, IL.
Jeff graduated from Putnam County High School with the class of 1977 and attended IVCC.
KAREN GORENZ
Karen A Gorenz, 72, of Princeton, passed on 03/19/2026.
Arrangements entrusted to Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments, Princeton, Il. Additional information: www.norbergfh.com.
Prior to Jeff’s illness he was employed in maintenance and as a bus driver for Putnam County and Wenona school districts. He was also a driver for Mid-American Growers and a guard with Burns Security. Throughout this time, he worked on grain and livestock farms with his father and father-in-law.
Jeff was a long-time member of the Emmaus Evangelical Lutheran Church in McNabb and Fish N Fun, McNabb. He volunteered as a coach with youth baseball for Bi-County Little League throughout his son’s young life. Jeff spent many years researching his family’s genealogy and collecting arrow heads. He enjoyed muscle cars, antique tractors, and classic Rock and Roll. Being in nature is one of the places Jeff felt most at peace. He loved fishing, hunting small game, eagle watching, and searching for morels. He enjoyed playing volleyball, basketball, softball, and bike riding. Sports were a huge part of his life as he enjoyed
cheering for his favorite teams, the St. Louis Cardinals, Green Bay Packers, Illinois Fighting Illini, and Milwaukee Bucks. His greatest joy was his family, and he would be found on the sidelines of his son and grandchildren’s games and events.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Lutes of McNabb; son, Jordan (Meghan) Lutes, grandchildren, Carson and Liv of Peru, IL; brother, Richard (Nita) Lutes of McNabb; sister, Lisa (Jeannie Mekley) Jackson of El Paso; brotherin-law Gene (Nancy) Johnson of Henry and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, in laws Ron and Louise Johnson, brothers Robert Lutes and Gerry Lutes, and niece Hillary Lutes.
Cremation rights have been accorded. A visitation will be held Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 9am-11am at Henry United Methodist Church in Henry, IL. A memorial service will
WILLIAM GORDON
William F Gordon, 96, of Princeton IL, passed on 03/24/2026.
Arrangements entrusted to Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments, Princeton, Il. Additional information: www.norbergfh.com.
follow. Kelly Shanklin Larimer, Certified Lay Speaker, will officiate. Inurnment will follow at Henry City Cemetery. Immediately following, a luncheon will be served at the church. Friends and family are invited to join.
Dysart – Cofoid Funeral Chapel will be assisting the family with the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the family for a memorial in Jeff’s honor.
The family would like to thank everyone who has supported Jeff and them throughout his battle.
Online condolences may be made to his family at 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
Hennepin Park District offers spring break activities for families
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Hennepin Park District will sponsor activities over spring break, including an Easter Egg Hunt and Kids Bingo.
On Friday, April 3, the park district will hold its annual Easter Egg Hunt on the lawn.
Participants will collect plastic eggs filled with Easter treats.
Ages 0 to kindergarten will hunt eggs on the north lawn at 10 a.m. Grades 1-5 will hunt eggs on the south lawn at 10:30 a.m.
The Easter Bunny will be present for photos.
The Easter Egg Hunt is free to all participants.
On Wednesday, April 8, the park district will host Kids Bingo in the Com-
munity Room.
Bingo will begin at 11 a.m. and conclude around noon. From 12 to 1 p.m., participants will play games and enjoy a snack.
The cost is free for Hennepin and Hennepin Township residents. All other areas will be charged $5 per activity.
Participants are invited to stay after Bingo for open swim at no additional charge.
Open Swim will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. and 3:15 to 5 p.m.
Children under 45 inches must be accompanied by an adult into the pool. Children 11 and under may stay for 3 hours if not accompanied by an adult. An adult is considered anyone 18 and over.
Call the Pool at 815-925-7319 or email hennepinparkdistrict@mchsi.com.
Shaw Local News Network file photo
The Hennepin Park District will sponsor activities over spring break, including an Easter Egg
Marshall-Putnam Soil & Water Conservation District
elects three new directors
Doyle, Nielsen and Hofer join board to guide conservation efforts in two counties
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Marshall-Putnam Soil & Water Conservation District elected three new directors on Feb. 12 at the USDA Service Center in Henry. Elected to the board are Angie Doyle of Putnam County, Alan Nielsen of Marshall County, and Jacob Hofer of Marshall County.
Ladd American Legion Auxiliary meets April 7
The Ladd American Legion Auxiliary, Harold E Russell Unit 958, will meet Tuesday, April 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Legion Hall, 111 S. Main Street.
Members are asked to bring any volunteer service hours to be included in the year-end reports.
Anyone interested in joining the Auxiliary is welcome to attend.
For more information, contact the Legion Hall at 111 S. Main Street or call the Ladd American Legion Auxiliary.
Putnam County Community Theatre holds auditions for summer musical “Shrek”
Auditions are open to incoming 9th graders and up and will take place Saturday, April 11, from 1 to 6 p.m. at
They join current board members Mark Haun of Putnam County and Tim Bogner of Marshall County in overseeing the district’s conservation efforts.
Associate Directors Terry Bogner, Diana Williamson, and Jim McQuilkin will continue to serve the board.
The Marshall-Putnam Soil & Water Conservation District works to guide conservation efforts across both counties.
Community members interested in becoming an Associate Director or learning about next year’s election are encouraged to contact the Marshall-Putnam SWCD office at 309-3643913.
Putnam County High School, 402 E Silverspoon Avenue, Granville. Possible callbacks will be held Saturday, April 18, at 1 p.m.
Those interested in auditioning should prepare a 60- to 90-second excerpt from a Broadway musical of their choice. Auditioners will also be asked to read lines from “Shrek.”
Auditioners must reserve an audition time slot online at https://koalendar. com/e/pcct-shrek-auditions or by emailing pccommunitytheatre@gmail. com.
Performances for “Shrek” will run Friday, July 10 through Sunday, July 12 and Friday, July 17 through Sunday, July 19 at Putnam County High School. Direct questions to pccommunitytheatre@gmail.com. – Shaw Local News Network
50th Wedding Anniversary Larry and Jolene Loebach
Larry Loebach and the former Jolene Fillipeck were married April 3, 1976 in Holy Family Catholic Church in Oglesby. Reverends Denis MacKessy and William Carey officiated. Maid of honor was Mary (Navin) Larson. Best man was Chuck Loebach. Bridesmaids were Bonnie (Moriarty) Peterson now deceased, Laurie (Watson) Doyle, Chris (Loebach) Stillson and Laura (Loebach) Weiden. Flower girl was Tracey (Ristau) MaCleod. Groomsmen were Gary Foltynewicz, Bob Cofoid, Doug Campbell now deceased and Mark Fillipeck. Ringbearer was Jason Jones and the ushers were Greg Foltynewicz and Tony Loebach.
The couple are the parents of one daughter Jillian (Tony) Phelps of Rockford. They have two grandchildren Clara and Henry.
Mr. Loebach was employed at BF. Goodrich/ Mexichem in Henry for 46 years. Before retirement he was the Senior Operations Engineer. Mrs. Loebach was a homemaker.
This program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls.
YOU WILL LEARN TO:
• view falls as controllable
• set goals for increased activity
• make changes to reduce fall risks at home
• exercise to increase strength and balance
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
• anyone concerned about falls
• anyone interest in improving balance, flexibility and strength
• anyone who has fallen in the past
• anyone who has restricted activities because of falling concerns
Snack and water will be provided
Lunch is available at approximately 12 noon - must sign up the day before For additional information or to sign up for the classes please call, PCCC at 815-339-2711
2007: Michael Phelps smashes his own world record in the 400m individual medley to win 7th gold medal at the World Championships in Melnourne, Australia
2008: New York Yankees set MLB record by winning 11th straight home opener
GIRLS VOLLEYBALL: ALL-STATE CLASSIC
PC’s Shannon Jenkins coaches in first All-State Classic
By KEVIN HIERONYMUS khieronymus@shawmedia.com
Putnam County’s Shannon Jenkins has coached volleyball on many levels.
Over the weekend, she added her first All-State Classic to her resume. The event is a collection of some of the top junior high volleyball talent around the state held Saturday and Sunday at the East Side Center in East Peoria competing in skills and matches.
She was accompanied by PC players Kinsey Pierski, Lillian Bouxsein, Natalie Guadiana, Annie Judd and Jaylynn Dickey, who were selected to compete.
Jenkins was honored to be selected.
“Being selected as an All-State coach is a powerful mix of validation, pride, and humility,” she said. “It means your hard work, leadership, and commitment to your players and your program are being recognized, but it also reflects the effort and trust of your athletes.
“More than anything, it’s a shared honor and a reminder to keep raising the standard and bringing out the best in others.”
The PC coach said it was a good weekend of volleyball for her NW Central team that included Elyse Grubich and Kaitlynn Olson from LaSalle Carlos Acutis.
“The girls played much bigger and powerful schools and they held their own taking them to three sets and going 2-1 on the day,” she said. “It was a great day of talented volleyball. I was honored and privileged to be chosen to coach the girls and enjoyed every moment of it.”
Jenkins brings a wealth of experience and passion to the court. She spent nine consecutive years coaching at Putnam County Junior High, working with both seventh and eighth grade teams and earning multiple conference championships and six regional championships.
She also served one year as a freshman coach and is now in her second year as the Junior Varsity coach at
Putnam County High School, assisting head coach Amy Bell.
An avid sports mom of five – four daughters and one son – Jenkins has been deeply involved in youth athletics for many years. All of her children have been active in sports, particularly club and high school volleyball, with two continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level.
Her love for the game is rooted in her own experience as a club player moving onto a collegiate athlete at the University of Texas at El Paso. Her passion for coaching was further shaped by watching her father, PC Hall of Fame coach Ken Jenkins, mentor and challenge young athletes to grow into hardworking,
successful individuals.
Like her father, Jenkins is committed to developing student-athletes both
on and off the court, emphasizing teamwork, discipline and a lifelong love for the game.
Photos provided by Shannon Jenkins
Coach Shannon Jenkins is joined by PCJH players Kinsey Pierski (from left) Lillian Bouxsein, Natalie Guadiana, Annie Judd and Jaylynn Dickey for the All-State Classic in East Peoria.
Putnam County’s Jaylnn Dickey passes up a serve receive during the All-State Classic in East Peoria.
Rodriquez places third in Prep Top Times
TRACK & FIELD
At Bloomington : Putnam County senior Alex Rodriguez placed third in the shot put at the Illinois Prep Top Times Meet - the unofficial indoor state meet - on Friday at Illinois Wesleyan University’s Shirk Center with a toss of 54-0 1/2.
BASEBALL
Putnam County 10, Annawan-Wethersfield 7 (8 inn.): Johnathon Stunkel ripped a two-run triple and later scored on a double by Kade Zimmerlein in the eighth inning to help the Panthers earn a nonconferene victory in Annawan on Saturday, March 28.
Stunkel finished 3 for 5 with two triples, three RBIs and three runs for PC (4-1), while Zimmerlein was 2 for 4 with two doubles, two RBIs and two runs and Traxton Mattingly was 3 for 4 with a
double and two runs.
Maddox Poole was the winning pitcher in relief, allowing five runs (two earned) on four hits with four strikeouts and two walks in 4 2/3 innings.
Henry-Senachwine 6, Putnam County 3: Austin Keith doubled, drove in three runs and scored a run as the Mallards won their Tri-County Conference opener in Granville on Tuesday, March 24.
Jacob Miller hit a solo home run for Henry (2-3), while Carson Rowe doubled and scored two runs. Rowe also threw a complete game, giving up three runs on six hits with seven strikeouts and two walks.
Traxton Mattingly and Johnathon Stunkel each had RBI doubles for Putnam County (2-1). Stunkel was the losing pitcher.
Putnam County 6, Henry-Senachwine 2: Johnathon Stunkel hit a two-run home
Masters Walleye Circuit kicks off 2026 season in Spring Valley
The Masters Walley Circuit began its 2026 season on Friday, March 20, at the Spring Valley Boat Club.
A total of 95 teams were registered for the tournament. The circuit has been running since 1984.
Anglers from across the country compete for a chance at winning over $86,000 of cash and prizes.
Weigh-ins begin at 3:30 p.m. at the Spring Valley Boat Club during the two-day tournament.
– Scott Anderson
run and a sacrifice fly, drove in three runs and scored a run Wednesday to lead the Panthers to a Tri-County Conference victory in Henry on Thursday, March 26.
Traxton Mattingly was 1 for 2 and scored three runs for PC (3-1, 1-1 TCC), while Maddox Poole was 2 for 4 with a run and an RBI.
Mattingly also earned the win as he gave up one earned run on six hits while striking out eight and walking two in five innings.
Carson Rowe had a triple, two doubles and scored a run for Henry (2-4, 1-1), while Caleb Wiesbrock doubled and scored a run.
SOFTBALL
Henry-Senachwine 13, Putnam County 2: Harper Schrock went 4 for 5 with a double, three RBIs and two runs to lead the Mallards to a victory in their Tri-County
Conference opener in Granville on March 24.
Rachel Eckert was 3 for 5 with a double, two RBIs and two runs for Henry (1-1), while Brynna Anderson went 3 for 5 with two runs and an RBI.
Bella Williams earned the win in the circle, giving up two runs on two hits with 12 strikeouts and six walks in a complete game.
Alexis Margis tripled for one of Putnam County’s two hits and scored a run, while Kennedy Holocker took the loss in the circle for the Panthers (2-1).
Henry-Senachwine 6, Putnam County 4: Alaina Sprague went 2 for 2 with two runs and an RBI to help the Lady Mallards to a Tri-County Conference victory in Henry on March 25.
Alexis Margis went 2 for 4 with a double and two RBIs for PC (2-2, 0-2), while Ella Pyszka was 2 for 4 with an RBI. Holocker was the losing pitcher.
Photos by Scott Anderson
ABOVE: Eric Maggio of Ladd, holds his fish with his sons Owen and Grady, pose for a photo caught during the annual Masters Walleye Circuit tournament on March 20, at the Spring Valley Boat Club. LEFT: Tyler DeBernardi of Ottawa, and J.J. DeBernardi of Wayne, hold up their walleye during the annual Masters Walleye Circuit tournament on March 20, at the Spring Valley Boat Club.
DONNELLY, GEORGE A. DECEASED
No. 2 026PR3
CL AIM NO TICE
Notice is given of the death of GEORGE A. DONNELLY, of the Village of Mark, Putnam County, Illinois. Letters of office as Executor were issued on March 12, 2026 to Adam Donnelly, whose attorney is Richard C. Fiocchi of Bernabei, Balestri & Fiocchi, 329 W. Dakota Street, Spring Valley, IL 61362
PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISING NOTICE
All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subjec t to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to adver tise “any prefer ence, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an inte ntion, to make any such preference , limita tion or discrimination .” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or le gal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of child ren under 18. This newspaper will not know in gly ac cept any advertising for real estat e which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call, HUD toll-free at 800- 669-9777. The toll-free telephone numbe r for the he aring impaired is 800-927-9275
CIRCUI T CO URT OF THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
PU TNAM COUNTY, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF DONNELLY, GEORGE A. DECEASED No. 2 026PR3
CL AIM NO TICE
Notice is given of the death of GEORGE A. DONNELLY, of the Village of Mark, Putnam County, Illinois. Letters of office as Executor were issued on March 12, 2026 to Adam Donnelly, whose attorney is Richard C. Fiocchi of Bernabei, Balestri & Fiocchi, 329 W. Dakota Street, Spring Valley, IL 61362
Claims against the estate may be e-filed in the Office of the Circuit, Clerk, Civil Division, Putnam County Courthouse, 120 N 4th Street, Hennepin, Illinois 61327, or with the representative 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 claim must be filed in the aboveentitled cause within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery, whichever is later. Any claims not filed within the above periods are banned. E filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e file you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https:// efile.i llinoiscourts.gov /servi ce-providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www.illinoi scourts. gov/FAQgethe lp.asp
Claims against the estate may be e-filed in the Office of the Circuit, Clerk, Civil Division, Putnam County Courthouse, 120 N 4th Street, Hennepin, Illinois 61327, or with the representative 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 claim must be filed in the aboveentitled cause within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery, whichever is later. Any claims not filed within the above periods are banned. E filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions To e file you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https:// efile.i llinoiscourts.gov /servi ce-providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www.illinoi scourts. gov/FAQgethe lp.asp
Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Representative and to the Attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.
Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Representative and to the Attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.
of the above estate, then claim must be filed in the aboveentitled cause within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery, whichever is later. Any claims not filed within the above periods are banned. E filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions To e file you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https:// efile.i llinoiscourts.gov /servi ce-providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www.illinoi scourts. gov/FAQgethe lp.asp
Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Representative and to the Attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.
Dated this 18th day of March 2026
Richard C. Fiocchi Attorney for the Estate 329 W. Dakota St. Spring Valley, IL 61362 (815) 664-2358 atlaw@bbandflaw.com
(Published in Putnam County Record Mar. 25, Apr. 1, 8, 2026) 2313157
PU TNAM COUNTY SH ERIF F'S OF FICE ACCE PTING BIDS
Sealed bids are being accepted for a 2017 Chevy Traverse, mileage 103,278, sold as is. Bids can be mailed to the Putnam County Sheriff' s Office, P.O. Box 177, Hennepin, IL 61327. Bids are due by 4/22/26 at 1:00pm. The Putnam County Sheriff's Office reserves the right to reject any and all bids (Published in Putnam County Record Apr. 1, 2026) 2315582
Dated this 18th day of March 2026
Richard C. Fiocchi
Attorney for the Estate 329 W. Dakota St. Spring Valley, IL 61362 (815) 664-2358 atlaw@bbandflaw.com
(Published in Putnam County Record Mar. 25, Apr. 1, 8, 2026) 2313157
