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LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Putnam County library opens little free pantry in Granville
The Putnam County Public Library District has launched a Little Free Pantry at its Granville branch to support community members facing food insecurity or hardship.
The self-service pantry at 214 S. McCoy St. allows community members to leave what they can and take what they need, with no questions asked.
The library accepts donations of non-expired, nonperishable food items, hygiene products and pet supplies such as canned or dry dog and cat food. Donations should be dropped off at the Granville Branch desk unless pantry shelves are empty.
The pantry is designed to provide immediate support to anyone who needs essential items.
For information, call the library at 815-339-2038.
Putnam County Library to screen Apollo 8 documentary
The Putnam County Public Library District will host a free screening of “First to the Moon: The Journey of Apollo 8” at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, at the Granville Branch. The documentary follows the groundbreaking 1968 Apollo 8 mission, the first crewed spacecraft to orbit the moon and return safely to Earth. The film uses rare archival footage from NASA, the National Archives and personal astronaut collections to tell the story of humanity’s first journey beyond Earth’s orbit.
The documentary highlights the courage and precision required for the historic voyage and features the capture of “Earthrise” by astronaut Bill Anders. The unexpected photograph transformed perspectives of Earth and remains one of the most influential images ever taken.
The 120-minute film is rated TV-MA and is made possible through Kanopy. The screening is free and open to the public.
The Granville Branch is located at 214 S. McCoy St. For more information, call 815-339-2038.
Shaw Local News Network
Photo provided by Rachael Blomquist
The Putnam County Public Library District has launched a Little Free Pantry at its Granville branch to support community members facing food insecurity or hardship.
Santa spirit takes over Spring Valley for annual 5K race
By SCOTT ANDERSON sanderson@shawmedia.com
NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE FOR THE MAGNOLIA TOWNSHIP ROAD DISTRICT
I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy increase for the Magnolia Township Road District for 2025 will be held on December 17, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. at the Magnolia Township Building, 210 N. Bloomington St., Magnolia, IL.
Any person desiring to appear at the public hearing and present testimony to the taxing district may contact Dan Baum, Town Clerk, P.O. Box 152, Magnolia, IL 61336 or by email at danbaum.com@hotmail.com.
II. The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $119,530.
The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $160,833. This represents a 34.55 percentage increase over the previous year.
III. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2024 were 0.
The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2025 are 0. This represents no change from the previous year.
IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $119,530.
The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $160,833. This represents a 34.55 percentage increase over the previous year.
The hearing is open to the public. The corporate authority of the taxing district shall explain the reasons for the proposed increase and shall permit persons desiring to be heard an opportunity to present testimony within reasonable time limits as it determines.
Photos by Scott Anderson
ABOVE: Tim Novak, who sometimes also goes by “Juan Leg,” runs on ice and snow Saturday during the Santas on the Run 5K and one-mile walk in Spring Valley. TOP: More than 100 runners begin the race during the Santas on the Run 5K and 1-mile walk Saturday in Spring Valley.
More than 100 participants braved the cold and snow during the Santas on the Run 5K and 1-mile walk Saturday in Spring Valley.
the
Chief Senachwine DAR Chapter honors veterans
Members place wreaths at Henry City Park, cemetery Nov. 11
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Members of the Chief Senachwine Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution honored veterans Nov. 11 at Henry City Park and Henry Cemetery.
The chapter paid tribute to veterans, including Captain John Cromwell, a
Medal of Honor recipient in World War II, and Abraham Lincoln, a Black Hawk War veteran.
Members placed wreaths at both locations as part of their Veterans Day observance.
Participating members included Sharon Bittner, Carol Byrd, Jean Galetti, Diana Williamson, Sandy Miller and Nancy Gillfillan.
The Daughters of the American Revolution is a patriotic organization dedicated to historic preservation, education and patriotism. Membership is open to women who can trace their lineage to patriots of the American Revolution.
Village of Granville Veteran Banners
2026 Order Form
Please carefully fill out the information below and indicate the correct branch of service that you wish to choose. You must also provide a photo that will be used on your Veteran’s banner. Pictures will be returned. The banners will be hung as soon as possible, hang through Veteran’s Day for 2 years for the cost of $75. After 2 years, you can re-purchase a banner to hang and keep the retired one. If flags are in good condition you won’t have to repurchase after 2 years.
If you have questions please contact Tracie Haage: 815-339-6333 or villageofgranville@mchsi.com
Have this order form turned in by February 1, 2026 Name: ___________________________________________________________ Phone: ________________________ Email: ____________________________
Form can be mailed back with payment and picture to: Village of Granville (or dropped off at the Village Hall - 316 S. McCoy St.) PO Box 580 Granville, IL 61326
Payment made out to: Village of Granville
Please submit a HIGH quality photo, 4” x 6” or larger, so we can properly enlarged to banner size.
No Photo Copies
_____ REORDER
Please fill out only veteran’s name and we able to access the previous proof and resubmit the banner (you do not need to resubmit a photo).
Please fill out name, number of years of service and check appropriate branch below.
VETERANS NAME: _________________________________________________ YEARS SERVED: ________________
Please check your chosen branch: ___Marines ____Army ____Navy _____Air Force _____Coast Guard _____National Guard
Photo provided by Sharon Bittner
Members of
Chief Senachwine Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution honored veterans Nov. 11 at Henry City Park and Henry Cemetery.
JOSEPH
Illinois Valley buried under heavy snowfall over the weekend
By SCOTT ANDERSON sanderson@shawmedia.com
Heavy snow fell across the Illinois Valley throughout the weekend.
Open House and December Discounts AT THE HENNEPIN PARK DISTRICT SWIMMING POOL
During the month of December receive a discount on 15 swim passes and 6 month memberships
$5 off any 15 swim pass • $10 off an individual 6 month membership $15 off a family 6 month membership • Limit 1 pass per person Swim passes make great gifts for your favorite swimmers! We have gift certificates available.
Open House at the Hennepin Park District Swimming Pool will be Monday- Thursday, December 8th-11th
Homemade cookies, coffee and hot chocolate will be served TO YOU. FREE TO ALL!!!
Sign up to win a free 6 month membership, 15 swim pass or kid’s birthday party special and goggles during our open house. MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE HENNEPIN PARK DISTRICT! Call 815-925-7319, email at hennepinparkdistrict@mchsi.com or visit our web site at www.hennepinparkdistrict.com for more info.
Photos by Scott Anderson
LEFT: A car spun out in the ditch on Saturday, Nov. 29, along Route 6 just east of La Salle.
ABOVE: Braydin Tieman and his sister Myah fall off their sleds on Saturday, Nov. 29, at McKinley Park in Peru.
EARLY BIRD
ALL SMASHES ARE SERVED WITH YOUR CHOICE OF A SIDE
THE DECOY SMASH
$15
Our stacked double smash goodness, loaded with Muenster cheese, sautéed mushrooms and onions, topped with bacon and drizzled with chipotle mayo, served on a toasted bun.
THE POND PILE-UP SMASH
$15
The ultimate smash burger topped with shaved ham, bacon and drizzled with beer cheese on a pretzel bun.
MUSHROOM SWISS SMASH
$13
Ohhh if you love mushrooms… this is for you! This smash gives you a hearty portion of mushrooms, smothered in Swiss cheese and of course drizzled with mayo.
ALL MALLARD SMASH
$13
This classic all-American favorite!!! Double smash on a bed of fresh lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles with ketchup, mustard and mayo.
WE OFFER FULL-SERVICE CATERING AND FOOD TRUCK!
SOME OF OUR VERY BEST ARE OUR SMOKED WINGS!
WE USE ONLY THE HIGHEST QUALITY WINGS, SLOW SMOKED, AND SEASONED TO PERFECTION, THEN FLASH FRIED FOR THAT PERFECT BITE!
FEATURED & FRIED SMOKED WINGS 10 FOR $10
ALL DISHES COME WITH CHOICE OF HOMESTYLE SLAW OR FRENCH FRIES UPGRADE YOUR SIDE TO APPLE SLAW, LOADED POTATO SALAD, OR SMOKED MAC ‘N CHEESE FOR AN ADDITIONAL $1.50
FAVORITES
THE RED HEAD Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich
$13
Hot honey sauce, breaded or grilled chicken topped with slaw and pickles, served on a toasted bun.
RUDDY BITES
Hand cut, hand breaded chicken nuggets dipped in our house-made batter and seasoning.
THE DECOY DIPPER
$13
$10
Holy smokes – these are next level! Our famous hand cut, hand breaded fried pork tenderloin strips served with white country gravy.
TAILFEATHER TENDERLOIN
$13
Our famous hand cut, hand breaded pork tenderloin sandwich. This baby has made waves all over the internet – it’s a big-time fan favorite. Add your favorite sauce.
THE TRIPLE SHOT
$10
This trio is fire! Smoked pulled pork, shaved ham, bacon, drizzled with BBQ sauce and topped with melted Swiss cheese.
GREEN HEAD GARDEN $10
For all you fresh salad lovers here it is – served on a bed of springleaf lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, hard boiled egg and croutons.
add your choice of grilled or crispy chicken $5
RANCH, HONEY MUSTARD, BLEU CHEESE, ITALIAN, FRENCH
THE BLIND SIDE BERRY SALAD $10
This is juicy! served on a bed of fresh spring leaf lettuce, strawberries, blueberries, red onion, feta cheese drizzled with a raspberry vinaigrette.
add your choice of grilled or crispy chicken $5
SIMPLE SIDE SALAD $5
$4.50
Ask about our soup of the day.
FOOD TRUCK FAVS
We started as a competition BBQ team and quickly grew into a crazy popular food truck and destination restaurant.
We are excited to share some of the absolute most popular items!
ALL FAVS COME WITH YOUR CHOICE OF SIDE
THE BIG HONKER
$13
There just aren’t enough words to describe greatness! The original food truck favorite! This beast of a baked potato is topped with butter, sour cream, fresh shredded cheddar cheese, piled high with our fresh pulled pork and drizzled with BBQ sauce. There is nothing about it that’s little!
DRAKE WRAP
$13
Everyone has their own take on smoked mac & cheese and pulled pork – but have you tried ours? Smoked mac and cheese is made from scratch here in our kitchen. Our pulled pork was a top 10 finalist for the best pulled pork in Illinois! Fresh smoked pulled pork, drizzled with BBQ sauce in a soft tortilla wrap.
HEN HOUSE WRAP
$13
Smoked chicken (shredded) with fresh cheddar cheese, fresh bacon crumbles and drizzled with BBQ sauce all in a soft tortilla wrap.
THE GADWALL $13
Fresh pulled pork sandwich. Very, very popular, easy and simple. Perfection at its best!
BEVERLY M. LAPUH
Born: January 28, 1929
Died: November 14, 2025
It is with great sorrow the family of Beverley M. Lapuh announces her passing in Peru on November 14, 2025, with her family at her bedside. She decided to donate her body to science. Helmer-Shields Funeral Home in Granville assisted in her request and the arrangements. A memorial Mass and service will be held at a later date.
Beverley was born January 28, 1929, in Granville to Hedwig (Geng) Janusick and Leo Janusick. She married John Lapuh in 1952. During her lifetime, Beverley worked at Westclox, assisted at the Daycare Center and worked as a dispatcher for the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office. She also helped older adults with housekeeping duties, and babysat for friends and acquaintances.
Beverley will be remembered for her kindness and willingness to help others. She was most happy when she was keeping busy, especially when working in her yard.
In past years, Beverley was a member of the Keys Club, Sacred Heart Church, and Altar and Rosary Society, and enjoyed bowling.
Beverley also looked forward to Tuesdays and Thursdays going out to eat dinner at different places with her group of friends every week, going to the Putnam County Senior Center in Standard, and after-church breakfast with her sister in past years.
Beverly is survived by her son, Larry Lapuh; daughter, Mary Catherine Biggs; sister-in-law, Joan Lapuh; and other relatives.
The family would like to thank Joan Lapuh, Judy Euler, Shauna Greenwood, Nancy Shaw, and the late Doris Gimbal for being such good friends over the years.
Beverley was preceded in death by her parents, husband John, brothers and sisters.
MARILYN JOAN VERDA
Born: August 28, 1932 in Mark, IL
Died: November 25, 2025 in Henry, IL 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.
Marilyn Joan Verda, a life-long resident of Mark, IL died November 25, 2025, at age 93 at Henry Nursing Home, where she has lived since 2020.
Marilyn was born to Nicola and Rose Ann (Carani) Verda on August 28, 1932. She was the fourth oldest of 12 siblings. At age 16, Marilyn left high school to go to work in order to help her younger siblings. She was employed at Westclox Clock Company in Peru from that time until the factory closed in 1980. Marilyn then cleaned homes for many families in the area. She and her mother made their famous and delicious “ravs” for people and restaurants throughout the Illinois Valley. Her nieces and nephews were taught from a young age how to “twist ravs” when visiting. And if you were lucky, you stopped at the house on bread baking day and enjoyed a warm slice as a snack. A pot of coffee brewing was a familiar scent. In her spare time, Marilyn enjoyed trips to the river boats to play the slots, and watching gameshows, especially Wheel of Fortune.
Aunt Mar loved her nieces and nephews. She was always available to chat around the kitchen table and had toys and coloring books ready in the closet. In the mid-1980s, her niece Angie challenged her to quit smoking as part of the Great American Smokeout campaign. Marilyn never smoked again. Marilyn is survived by brothers Raymond (Linda Platt) Verda and Lucian Verda, sisters Beverly Biagini and Elaine (Doug) Ossola, all of Granville IL, sister Shirley McCann, residing in California, 25 nieces and nephews, and many great-nieces and nephews…and some great-greats, too. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Adeline Moriarty; brothers Dominic, Jimmy, LeRoy, Ronnie and Richard Verda; nieces Debra Verda and Pam Muilenburg, and nephew Chad Nunley. Memorials may be directed to the Putnam County Food Pantry.
A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 10am, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church Granville, Fr. Michael Driscoll, celebrant. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery. There will be no visitation. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Helmer Shields Funeral Home., Granville.
Cold cases: Lane Bryant murders among those still unsolved
By MARIBETH M. WILSON mwilson@shawmedia.com
There are secrets buried just beneath northern Illinois communities: unsolved murders, kidnappings and disappearances that continue to hinder investigators.
From the 1957 abduction of Maria Ridulph to the 2008 Lane Bryant mass shooting, the cases remain unsolved, leaving behind grieving families, unanswered questions and a lingering pursuit of justice.
Maria Ridulph - Dec. 3, 1957
Maria Ridulph was 7 when she was kidnapped in Sycamore. On Dec. 3, 1957, while she was playing with a friend, she accepted a piggyback ride from a stranger.
river feeds into the Illinois River.
Five months later, a couple hunting for mushrooms found Maria’s body stuffed under a tree trunk in a forest about 100 miles from her home.
Fifty-five years later, former police officer Jack Daniel McCullough, known as John Tessier at the time of Ridulph’s kidnapping, was convicted of her abduction and killing. It would take less than five years to overturn his conviction.
McCullough was released from prison in 2016.
Dermot Kelly - Jan. 30, 1972
Dermot F. Kelly, 16, was last seen leaving his home in Oglesby about 1:15 p.m. Jan. 30, 1972. He took his .22-caliber rifle and told his family he was headed to the woods along the Vermillion River for target practice. Two hours later, his parents reported him missing.
He was never seen or heard from again.
During a search effort, Kelly’s jacket and boots were discovered on the bank of the Vermillion River, where that
A set of bare footprints was seen leading from the bank out into the partially frozen river. There were no return prints. An impression of a rifle remained in the snow. Divers later found a rifle, believed to have been Kelly’s, just below the river.
Kelly was declared legally dead in 1992, and both of his parents are now dead as well.
Anyone with information should call the La Salle County Sheriff’s Office at 815-433-2161.
Veronica
Jill Blumhorst - Sept. 20, 1990
Veronica Jill Blumhorst was 21 when she vanished from her garage Sept. 21, 1990.
Blumhorst left her job at 1:05 a.m. after feeling ill and drove four blocks to her Mendota home. She parked her car in the detached garage, locked the driver’s side door and closed the garage door.
Police said she never entered her
home, and none of her personal items were recovered. She was carrying a purse, keys, a red smock and a VHS tape. She was wearing a light green short-sleeve sweater with a white tank top underneath, corduroy cream pants, brown shoes, a purple satin jacket, her class ring with a blue sapphire stone and a black watch.
Her case garnered the attention of the Cold Case Foundation, which led to the case being turned over to the FBI in April 2020.
Anyone with information on this case is asked to call 800-225-5324, call FBI ViCap at 800-634-4097 or email vicap@ fbi.gov.
Amy Todd Fleming - Jan. 11, 1996
The killing of Amy Todd Fleming has haunted the Lee County Sheriff’s Office for more than 25 years. She was found strangled in her home off Route 30 in rural Lee County.
According to a Jan. 11, 2016, Shaw
See COLD CASES on page 11
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Putnam County Library to screen “It’s a Wonderful Life”
The Putnam County Public Library District’s Granville Branch will host a holiday movie matinee at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9.
The library will screen “It’s a Wonderful Life,” the beloved 1946 film starring James Stewart as George Bailey, a small-town banker who questions his worth after becoming involved in a case of mistaken bank fraud.
The classic tells the story of Bailey’s journey when he’s granted a vision of what his town of Bedford Falls would have been like if he had never been born, revealing the impact one person can make in their community.
The 130-minute film is rated PG and is free and open to the public. The screening is presented through SWANK Licensing.
The Granville Branch is located at 214 S. McCoy St. For more information, call 815-339-2038.
Putnam County Library to host winter bird craft Dec. 10
The Putnam County Public Library District will host a “Whimsical Winter Bird” craft session for all ages at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at the McNabb Branch.
Participants will create a winter scene featuring birds perched on frosty branches using simple materials and textured “snow.” The hands-on art activity is designed to encourage creativity and develop fine-motor skills.
The program is free and open to the public. The McNabb Branch is located at 322 W. Main St.
For more information, call 815-339-2038.
Putnam County Library plans gingerbread workshop
The Putnam County Public Library District will host a gingerbread decorating workshop at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, at the Granville Branch.
Families will work with pre-assembled
“gingerbread” houses made from graham crackers and royal icing. All materials and basic decorating tips will be provided to help participants create their own festive designs.
The workshop is designed for children ages 5 and up with a parent or guardian. Participants can take home their decorated houses and will learn creative ways to add candy trees, snow people, walkways and other elaborate features.
The program is free, but registration is required as space is limited to 20 participants. Registration is available online through Dec. 8 at forms.gle/kCwnEjRzc1DM2Xvx9.
The Granville Branch is located at 214 S. McCoy St. For more information, call 815-339-2038.
Marshall–Putnam 4–H to offer holiday centerpiece workshop Dec. 20 in Henry
The University of Illinois Extension Marshall–Putnam Master Gardeners will partner with the Marshall–Putnam 4–H to offer a “Gathered Treasures” Holiday Centerpiece Workshop for youth ages 5 to 18 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Marshall-Putnam Extension office, 509 Front St., Henry.
Participants will be able to create and take home a holiday centerpiece. Attendees can also build centerpieces to share with nursing home residents. Participants may be accompanied by parents and grandparents.
The workshop costs $5. Registration is required and due Monday, Dec. 15. 4–H members can register online at 4h.zsuite. org/event-registrations/43341. Non–members will be able to register online at 4h. zsuite.org/external-event-registration/43341.
Early accommodation requests for access needs are encouraged. To make a request, email amscheel@illinois.edu or call 309-364-2356.
For more information, call 309-364-2356. Shaw Local News Network
NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE FOR PUTNAM COUNTY COMMUNITY UNIT SCHOOL DISTRICT #535
I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy increase for Putnam County Community Unit School District #535 for 2025 will be held on December 16, 2025 at 6:30 pm at Putnam County Primary School, Media Center, 400 E. Silverspoon Avenue, Granville, Illinois 61326.
Any person desiring to appear at the public hearing and present testimony to the taxing district may contact Dr. Clayton J. Theisinger, Superintendent, 400 E. Silverspoon Avenue, Granville, Illinois 61326, (815)882-2800 ext. 5.
II. The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $7,993,393.00.
The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $8,875,900. This represents an 11.04% increase over the previous year.
III. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2024 were $0.
The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2025 are $0. This represents a 0% increase over the previous year.
IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $7,993,393.00.
The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $8,875,900.00. This represents an 11.04% increase over the previous year.
News from Putnam County CUSD #535
PC Community:
Each year, the Putnam County CUSD #535 Board of Education is required by law to adopt a tax levy in the same manner as all other school districts in Illinois. This levy represents the tentative amount of local property tax revenue needed to fund our schools.
Local property taxes are the largest and most stable source of funding for PC #535 and are essential to fulfilling our vision of improved student learning. These funds directly support teacher and staff salaries, transportation, facilities maintenance, utilities, educational materials, and all other operational needs.
At the upcoming Board of Education meeting, the District will review the final levy for the 2025 tax year, which currently reflects an estimated increase of approximately 11% over last year’s extension. We understand that discussions about taxes naturally raise questions and concerns. The information below is intended to help explain why this increase is proposed and what it means for our schools and community.
Why is the tentative levy increasing by about 11%?
The cost of operating our schools has risen significantly over the past several years. While the District continues to be financially responsible and seeks the most cost-effective services, many operating expenses have increased at rates well above inflation. For example, electric and natural gas costs have increased between 25% and 35% and property insurance has increased 16% in the past year. These increases represent a fraction of the many costs associated with running the schools. While many cost increases exceed 11%, the District has carefully balanced its tax levy request with other available state and local funding sources to minimize the impact on taxpayers.
What
was the District’s
tax rate in the past?
For the past few years, the District’s tax rate has remained around 4.00, which is the lowest among unit school districts in central Illinois. This rate is based on the overall property values within the District’s boundaries, including residential, industrial, commercial, and agricultural. In recent years, the increase in property values has allowed the District to responsibly acquire more funds by maintaining a stable tax rate.
How does the tax rate work with the District’s budget?
The District currently maintains a healthy financial balance due to an unanticipated increase in corporate personal property tax revenue received a few years ago. These funds were invested in CDs across the three banks in Putnam County and earmarked for future facility improvements. We anticipate these funds will be quickly depleted once we begin the projects. Maintaining a consistent and responsible tax levy ensures the District can continue to operate on a balanced budget while investing in the long-term sustainability of its schools and infrastructure.
If you have any questions regarding these topics or other matters, please contact the District Office at (815)882-2800 ext. 5.
Sincerely,
PC #535 Board of Education & Dr. Clayton J. Theisinger, Superintendent
Continued from page 8
Local News article, police believe she may have known her killer – someone she would have trusted enough to let into her home while her husband was out of town at a cattle show.
After strangling Fleming, her killer took household items, including a microwave and a VCR, to make it look like a burglary.
According to the Jan. 11, 2016, article, the case is far from cold. Police believe Fleming’s killer was not a burglar, although her killer tried to make it look that way. Authorities believe it wasn’t a random act, and people they previously have questioned may have been hiding elements of the crime.
Anyone with information can call the Lee County Sheriff’s Office at 815-2846631 or the Ogle/Lee Crime Stoppers at 888-228-4488.
Nicole Bowers - Aug. 3, 2000
Nicole Bowers was 17 when she vanished from her mother’s home in 2000. Three years later, her remains were found less than 2 miles away, east of the Morris city dump. Her case remains unsolved.
On the night of Aug. 2, 2000, Bowers was watching TV when her mother went
to bed. When her mother woke up at 5 the next morning at their apartment in
Medicare Open Enrollment Ends
December 7th.
the 1200 block of Alicia Drive in Morris, Bowers was gone.
She was reported missing Aug. 9.
At the time, police described Bowers as a “habitual runaway” who frequently stayed at her older boyfriend’s house.
On May 9, 2003, a surveyor found part of Bowers’ skull in a field near Bungalow and Gun Club roads in Channahon while the Utility Concrete facility was being constructed. According to newspaper reports at the time, the surveyor did not report his findings until May 12, as he had weekend plans.
Bowers’ identity was confirmed through dental records, and forensics indicated her bones had been intentionally broken and scattered. She died as a result of blunt-force trauma to her head.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Channahon Police Department at 815-467-2112 or Grundy County CrimeStoppers at 815-942-9667.
Lane Bryant murders - Feb. 2, 2008
The Lane Bryant murders remain one of the most haunting cases in northern Illinois, when five women were killed in a mass shooting that remains unsolved.
On the morning of Feb. 2, 2008, a man
Photo Illustration Scott Anderso Unsolved Crimes of Northern Illinois.
OSF Saint Clare launches annual Tree of Lights campaign
which will be displayed in the hospital’s north lobby.
fund medical equipment at Princeton hospital
By MARIBETH M. WILSON mwilson@shawmedia.com
The OSF HealthCare Saint Clare Medical Center Tree of Lights campaign in Princeton is underway.
The tradition, which began in 1990, has raised more than $135,000 for health and well-being initiatives, OSF said in a news release.
OSF said this year’s proceeds will fund a portable 3D ultrasound bladder scanner that enhances patient safety through quick, noninvasive assessments.
Community members can purchase stars to place on the 2025 Tree of Lights,
• COLD CASES
Continued from page 11
posing as a delivery driver gunned down five women in the Brookside Marketplace mall in Tinley Park, according to Shaw Local news reports.
Rhoda McFarland, 42, of Joliet; Jennifer Bishop, 34, of South Bend, Indiana; Sarah Szafranski, 22, of Oak Forest; Connie Woolfolk, 37, of Flossmoor; and Carrie Hudek Chiuso, 33, of Frankfort, were shot in the back of the head and killed.
A 33-year-old woman survived the attack, escaping with a minor neck wound. She helped police sketch the face of the killer.
There’s a $100,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Anyone with information about the case should call the tip hotline at 708-444-5394 or email lanebryant.tipline@tinleypark. org.
A composite likeness of the suspect and an audio recording of his voice from the 911 call are available on the Tinley Park village’s website at TinleyPark. org/LaneBryant.
Jelani Day - Aug. 25, 2021
The Jelani Day case has garnered
Silver stars cost $10, and gold stars cost $100. A corresponding list will feature the names of those honored and remembered.
“As these stars shine brightly through the season, they remind us of the love and light that continue to surround us,” Tree of Lights chair Deb Kirley said in the release. “Each gift is a reflection of gratitude and hope for those we cherish and for the health of our community.”
Participants can visit osfsaintclare. org/treeoflights or pick up a brochure in the OSF Saint Clare lobby. Donations can be mailed to OSF Saint Clare – Tree of Lights, 530 Park Ave. E., Princeton.
The Tree of Lights will remain on display through Jan. 31.
national attention.
Day’s family and professors reported the 25-year-old Illinois State University graduate student missing after he did not show up to class Aug. 25, 2021, and was not answering phone calls or text messages.
His car was found Aug. 26 in a wooded area near the Illinois Valley YMCA. His body was found Sept. 4 in the Illinois River near the Route 251 bridge in Peru.
The La Salle County Coroner’s Office used forensic dental identification and DNA testing to identify Day. Day was identified Sept. 23, 19 days later. La Salle County Coroner Richard Ploch said Day’s cause of death was drowning.
Day’s family was critical of the investigation, so they hired their own investigator and had an independent autopsy conducted.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Peru Police Department at 815433-2161.
The following have provided all cases, names and descriptions: the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System, the Missing Persons Awareness Network, Newspapers.com and the Shaw Local News Network archive.
SPORTS
TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY
1856: The longest bareknuckle boxing bout is recorded, 6 hours and 15 minutes. 2009: Patrick Kane signs a five-year, $31.5 million contract extension with the Chicago Blackhawks.
PC volleyball holds awards night
Wednesday,
Nov.
Photos provided
TOP LEFT: Seniors honored at the Putnam County volleyball night were Ella Pyszka (left), Addy Letherman and Sydney Samek. TOP RIGHT: Putnam County volleyball varsity members were honored at the awards night on
Nov. 19. ABOVE: Putnam County volleyball F/S members were honored at the awards night on Wednesday,
19 LEFT: Sarah Weisbrock (left) and Myah Richardson were honored as all-conference players at the awards night on Wednesday, Nov. 19.
Panthers finish 1-4 at Wethersfield Invite
BOYS BASKETBALL
Putnam County 53, Stark County 50: Johnathan Stunkel scored 18 points and hit the go-ahead basket in the final 20 seconds on Friday, Nov. 28 to lead the Panthers to their first win of the season with a 53-50 victory over Stark County at the Wally Keller Invitational at Wethers -
field High School in Kewanee.
Braden Bickerman had 10 points for PC, while Traxton Mattingly added six points. Also Friday, the Panthers (1-4) lost 40-33 to Rockridge, finishing fifth in the six-team field.
Annawan 50, Putnam County 40: Braden Bickerman scored 14 points and dished out three assists as the Panthers opened
the season on Monday, Nov. 24 with a loss in the Wally Keller Invitational in Kewanee.
Alan Castro added six points and seven rebounds for PC.
Elmwood 54, Putnam County 23: Alan Castro scored nine points and grabbed nine rebounds as the Panthers lost in tournament play at Wethersfield on
Tuesday, Nov. 25. Braden Bickerman added six points for PC.
Wethersfield 49, Putnam County 48: The Panthers lost at the buzzer in the Wally Keller Invitational on Wednesday, Nov. 26. Alan Castro had 13 points and nine rebounds for PC while Braden Bickerman contributed 11 points and six rebounds. – Shaw Local News Network
PCJH girls basketball celebrates eighth grade night
Photos provided by Shannon Jenkins
TOP LEFT: Putnam County Junior High celebrated its eighth grade night Tuesday with a 51-16 win over Marseilles. Eighth grade team members honored were Dayzlyn Cioni (from left), Anahi Avila, Avery Lenkaitis, Makenna Goulding, Kinsey Pierski, Murphy Hopkins, Jaylynn Dickey, Lillian Bouxsein and Anni Judd. ABOVE: PC’s Anni Judd takes in a layup in Tuesday’s Putnam County eighth grade night. LEFT: PC’s Avery Lenkaitis shoots for two in Tuesday’s Putnam County eighth grade night.
Notice is given of the death of Edwin L. Goode, Jr., a resident of Lake Thunderbird, Putnam County, Illinois, who died on November 7, 2025, and that Letters of Office as Executor were issued on November 20, 2025 to Sheryl Hillier, who may be contacted c/o her attorney as set forth below.
CLASSIFIED
PUBLISHE R'S 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
Putnam County Record
Cl assi fi ed 833- 584-NEWS
PUBLIC NOTICE IN TH E CIRCUIT CO URT OF THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PUTNAM COUNTY, ILLINOIS IN RE: The Estate of Edwin L. Goode, Jr., Deceased Case # 2 5 PR 9 NO TICE TO CREDIT ORS OF CLAIM DATE
Notice is given of the death of Edwin L. Goode, Jr., a resident of Lake Thunderbird, Putnam County, Illinois, who died on November 7, 2025, and that Letters of Office as Executor were issued on November 20, 2025 to Sheryl Hillier, who may be contacted c/o her attorney as set forth below.
Claims may be filed six (6) months from the date of the first publication of this Notice of Claim Date or three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery, whichever is later, and any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Putnam County Courthouse, Hennepin, IL 61327, or with the Representative c/o her attorney, or with both the Repres entative and her attorney. Within ten (10) days after a claimant files its claim, if filed with the Court, the claimant must mail or deliver a copy of the claim to the Representative c/o her attorney of record AND file with the Court proof of mailing or delivery of said copies.
Eligible Telecommu nications
McNabb Telephone Company proudly offers services and functionalities designed to exceed the Federal Communication Comm ission's (FCC) requirem ents as stated in C.F.R. § 54 101, including
• Single party service, including local usage
• Access to interexchange service through the public switched network
• Dual tone multi- frequency signaling
• Access to emergency services
• Access to operator services and directory assistance services
• Toll limitation for qualifying low -income consumers
PUBLIC NOTICE
HELP WITH BASI C PH ONE SE RVICE
McNabb Telephone Company is pleased to offer the LIFELINE program to our customers.
LIFELI NE is a program established to help pay the monthly charge for local telephone service, or a qualified bundle servi ce. This federally funded program is available to qualified low- income consumers. If the qualifying low -income consumer voluntarily elects toll blocking while initiating LIFELINE service, a deposit is not required.
WHO IS E LIGIBLE FOR THESE PROGRAMS? To be eligible for the program you must be a recipient of one of the following:
• Medicaid
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Federal Housing Assistance (Section 8)
Claims may be filed six (6) months from the date of the first publication of this Notice of Claim Date or three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery, whichever is later, and any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Putnam County Courthouse, Hennepin, IL 61327, or with the Representative c/o her attorney, or with both the Repres entative and her attorney. Within ten (10) days after a claimant files its claim, if filed with the Court, the claimant must mail or deliver a copy of the claim to the Representative c/o her attorney of record AND file with the Court proof of mailing or delivery of said copies.
Dated November 20, 2025 /s/ Scott A. Shore, Attorney for Executor Scott A. Shore, Attorney At Law 227 E. Court St.P.O. Box 231 Hennepin, IL 61327 Tel. 815- 925- 7117
ShoreLaw And Mediation@gmail. com
(Published Putnam County Record Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10, 2025) 2288967
Cl assi fi ed Works! Call today to pl ace your ad! 833- 584-NEWS
The current rates and charges for the above- listed services and functionalities can be found in the tariffs on file at the appropriate governing agencies and are subject to change upon proper notice (See National Exchange Carrier Association (NECA) Tariff Number 5 on file with the FCC and McNabb Telephone Company Tariff Number 8 on file with the Illinois Comm erce Comm ission (ICC), or available in the company business office.)
(Published in the Putnam County Record December 3, 2025) 2289132
• Veteran's Pension and Survivor Benefit
• Custom er household income is at or below 135% of the National Poverty Guidelines, for a household of that size
WHERE CA N I APPLY FOR THE LIFELL NE PROGRAMS?
For additional inform ation or enrollment, contact our business office at (815) 882- 2201.
(Published in the Putnam County Record December 3, 2025) 2289130
Dated November 20, 2025
/s/ Scott A. Shore, Attorney for Executor Scott A. Shore, Attorney At Law
227 E. Court St.P.O. Box 231 Hennepin, IL 61327 Tel. 815- 925- 7117 ShoreLaw And Mediation@gmail. com (Published Putnam County Record Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10,
