AHEAD
SENIOR LIFESTYLE
Food fuels the body throughout the day, ideally providing the energy people need to make the most of each day. But the foods people eat are more than just fuel. Indeed, a delicious meal is hard to forget, and that underscores how significant a variable flavor can be when people choose the foods they eat.
Flavor is certainly important when choosing and preparing meals, but it cannot be the only variable that determines what people eat. That’s true for everyone, and especially notable for seniors. Age-related changes to the body should affect seniors’ approach to diet. The National
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Council on Aging notes that metabolism slows as bodies grow older, which means seniors require fewer calories to fuel their daily activities than they needed when they were younger. That’s just one of the many notable things seniors should consider when designing their daily diets.
• Plan a well-rounded diet. School children learn the basic food groups as youngsters, and it’s good for seniors to keep those long-ago lessons in mind when planning their daily diets. The American Heart Association notes the importance of incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and proteins into daily diets. In regard to dairy, the AHA advises consuming the equivalent of three cups of low-fat (1 percent) or fat-free dairy each day. When picking a protein source, the AHA identifies eggs, fish, lean meat, legumes, nuts, and poultry as healthy and protein-rich foods. Even polyunsaturated and monounsaturated oils like olive oil and peanut oil can be healthy.
• Resolve to read more labels. Aging adults need not study nutrition to identify what they’re putting into their bodies each time they take a bite. The NCOA notes that food labels are useful sources of information that can indicate how much fat, sodium and added sugars are in a given item. Seniors should be especially vigilant when
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trying to avoid foods that contain a lot of added sugars, which can contribute to weight gain. That’s notable given seniors’ naturally slower metabolisms.
• Practice portion control. It’s not necessarily the foods seniors eat but how much they eat that can derail their efforts to maintain their overall health. Seniors’ recommended daily calorie intake varies by both gender and activity levels. Guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services notes women 61 and over who are moderately physically active should consume roughly 1,800 calories per day, while those living an active lifestyle are advised to eat around 2,000 calories per day. Moderately active men age 66 and older are advised to eat 2,400 calories per day, while active men between the ages of 61 and 75 should aim for 2,600 calories per day. When reading food labels, pay attention to calories per serving, as that can act as a useful guide to control portions. The National Institute on Aging recognizes it can be hard to control portion sizes when dining out, and recommends seniors share an entrée or order from the appetizers menu when picking their main course.
The right daily dietary habits can help seniors live longer, healthier and happier lives, and picking the right foods does not require sacrificing flavor.
SENIOR LIFESTYLE
HOW SENIORS CAN CULTIVATE A NEW HOBBY
Retirement is often characterized as a carefree time in life when adults who spent years in the workforce get to enjoy the fruits of their labors. But upon retiring, many retirees find themselves fighting boredom. A recent study from Indeed found that, as of March 2022, 3.2 percent of workers who retired a year earlier had already reentered the workforce. No two retirees are the same, and a host of variables, boredom among them, likely compelled recently retired professionals to go back to work.
Retirees who like the freedom of not working but are confronting a good bit of boredom can consider these tips to cultivate a new hobby that can help them pass the time in a rewarding and engaging way.
• IDENTIFY NEW (OR OLD) INTERESTS. Many retirees discover new passions in retirement, while others turn back the clock and revisit favorite hobbies from their youth. A good way to begin cultivating a new hobby is to jot down a list of activities you always found interesting but never had the time to learn or became too busy to fully invest in. Some seniors hit the links for the first time in retirement, while others return to school to study subjects they find interesting but did not engage with
during their college years. The options are endless, and jotting down a list of new or old interests is a great way to get the ball rolling.
• EMBRACE NEW WAYS TO ENGAGE A PASSION.
Virtual resources like online courses and book clubs conducted over Zoom with fellow readers across the nation and possibly even the globe are a great way to cultivate a new hobby in retirement. Virtual resources can be especially beneficial for seniors with mobility issues.
• CONSIDER LOCALLY BASED RESOURCES.
Community parks departments and libraries may offer an array of free or affordable opportunities for seniors to engage with a new hobby. Parks departments may offer anything from cross country skiing tutorials to age-based hiking excursions, while libraries may offer weekly crafting sessions or wellness programs to local residents. In addition to providing fun ways to discover and cultivate a new hobby, programs offered through parks departments and local libraries are great ways to meet fellow retirees.
• PUT YOUR EXPERIENCE TO USE.
Retirees with years in their field don’t have to go back to work to make use of their professional expertise. Contact local youth organizations or outreach programs sponsored by churches, libraries or local law enforcement agencies and offer to share your expertise with young people. Such opportunities allow retirees to continue to engage with their professions and help a younger generation of aspiring professionals gain valuable insight into fields they’re interested in.
There’s no shortage of ways for seniors to overcome retirement boredom and cultivate rewarding hobbies.
Mental health has increasingly been noted as a key ingredient to an individual health regimen. The stigma once assigned to mental health issues has largely dissipated, and many people now recognize that mental health should be just as big a priority as physical health.
Seniors may not have come of age in a world where mental health was prioritized, and thanks to that aging men and women may not recognize where their mental health is suffering and what they can do to combat such problems. Recognition of the importance of mental health is a step in the right direction, and seniors also can consider these strategies to safeguard their mental health.
• Recognize your vulnerability. The World Health
SENIOR LIFESTYLE
WHAT SENIORS CAN DO TO SAFEGUARD THEIR MENTAL HEALTH
Organization notes older adults are uniquely vulnerable to potential mental health issues. That’s because mental health is shaped by numerous variables, including earlier life experiences and some notable stressors related to aging, such as a decline in functional ability that can cause psychological distress. Seniors also are more likely than others to experience adverse events like the loss of a loved one or even a loss of purpose, which can affect anyone upon retirement. Recognition of this vulnerability may be enough to compel seniors to seek advice and assistance on how to safeguard their mental health from age-related stressors.
• Take time out if you’re a caregiver. The WHO notes that many older adults serve as caregivers for spouses with chronic health conditions, including dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that studies have found that 70 percent of caregivers report feeling stress related to coordination of care, while two in three caregivers have difficulty finding resources and support for their needs. Seniors who have taken on caregiving duties for a loved one must protect their own mental health by taking time out
to care for themselves as well. Work with family members to share responsibilities when caring for a loved one. If family members cannot pitch in, then work with local government agencies to alleviate some of the stress of caregiving.
• Make a concerted effort to socialize. A 2025 report from the WHO indicated that roughly one-fourth of all older adults are affected by social isolation and loneliness. Social connection can significantly improve mental health and provide a sense of life satisfaction while improving quality of life. Seniors are urged to prioritize socialization. Many community-based groups, including government offices, run programs designed specifically to facilitate socialization among older residents. Take advantage of such programs whenever possible. Seniors living alone also may want to consider relocating to communities exclusive to people age 55 and over, as such developments typically offer an array of socialization opportunities to residents. Seniors are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues, but older adults can take many steps to safeguard their mental health.
SENIOR LIFESTYLE
7 BENEFITS OF SOCIALIZATION FOR SENIORS
One of the primary lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic was how challenging social isolation can be. Social isolation often goes overlooked, but it’s a key contributor to poor mental health. Experts state that it is increasingly important for adults to maintain an active social life as they age. There are many benefits that come from staying engaged and socializing with others. The following is a look at seven ways socialization benefits seniors.
1. Regular social interactions can help older adults avoid depression, anxiety and feelings of isolation, according to Integracare, a senior living company.
2. Social engagement can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia because socializing helps to keep the mind sharp through new experiences.
3. Socialization often revolves around an activity that gets seniors up and moving. While being sedentary is alright on occasion, consistently sitting or laying around can lead to high cholesterol, weight gain and high blood pressure. A 2019 study published in The Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences determined that older adults who interacted with people beyond their usual social circle of family and close friends were more likely to have higher levels of physical activity, greater positive moods and fewer negative feelings.
4. Regular social interaction may compel seniors to embrace healthier eating habits. Social events expose seniors to different types of food, which can help them get the nutrients they need to live healthy.
5. Regular socialization can help seniors feel they are needed and have a sense of purpose, which can boost self-esteem. Engaging with others often means contributing to a community, and that can be satisfying.
6. Getting out and interacting with others can serve as an informal wellness check, potentially alerting family and friends to issues that may need attention.
7. Getting outside and interacting with others can open seniors up to new hobbies. Whether that is participating in a new sport or joining a club, there are mental and physical advantages to engaging socially.
Socialization is an important factor in seniors’ overall wellness, and one that should be discussed along with diet, exercise and illness management.
Oregon mom pleads guilty to suffocating 7-year-old son in 2021
Sarah
Safranek sentenced to 35 years in prison
By EARLEEN HINTON Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Sarah Safranek sobbed softly as she pleaded guilty Wednesday, Nov. 12, to suffocating her 7-year-old son, Nathaniel Burton, in their Oregon home in February 2021.
Safranek, 38, admitted to Judge Anthony Peska that she was responsible for the death of Nathaniel, pleading guilty to first-degree murder. She was then sentenced to 35 years in prison.
She was charged with five counts of first-degree murder and one count of aggravated battery after being arrested April 21, 2021 and indicted May 4, 2021. She pleaded not guilty May 6, 2021 and had numerous court hearings as she remained in custody in the Ogle County Jail as her case proceeded through the court system.
On Wednesday, she pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree murder and the other counts were dismissed.
“As to this count today how do you want to plead?,” asked Peska.
“Guilty,” Safranek replied through tears as she sat next to her attorney, Ogle County Public Defender Kathleen Isley.
At the start of Wednesday’s afternoon hearing, Isley requested a 402 conference - a pre-trial meeting between the judge and attorneys to discuss a potential resolution to a criminal case.
“Is it your desire for me to participate in this conference,” Peska asked Safranek, to which she replied “yes”.
When the hearing reconvened, Isley told Peska she believed a proposed plea had been reached in which Safranek would plead guilty to one count and in return be sentenced to 35 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections with credit for 1,666 days already served.
Isley asked the court to request mental health treatment be provided to Safranek as she serves her sentence in prison.
“Do you want to accept [those terms]?” Peska asked.
“Yeah,” Safranek replied while choking back tears.
Peska said Safranek would have to serve 100% of the sentence. He said he could ask for – but not guarantee – mental health treatment or services while she is incarcerated.
“I can’t order the IDOC to do that,” Peska told Safranek. “But I have no problem signing that order.”
Peska asked Safranek if she wanted to say anything else before the hearing ended.
“No,” she said softly while shaking her head.
“I think this is an appropriate sen -
tence,” Peska said. “You are very emotional right now. There is no greater gift than having a child and having that taken away is the greatest hurt. Living with this is going to be a very large burden for you to bear.”
Ogle County Assistant State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten said Nathaniel’s father and grandmother had been informed of the plea agreement prior to Wednesday’s hearing.
After the hearing, Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock said Safranek would not be eligible for release until 2056.
“Based on the the defendant’s accep-
tance of responsibility and in consideration of prior court rulings we felt this was the best way,” Rock said. “This term of imprisonment shall be served at 100 percent and is followed by three years of mandatory supervised release.”
During a 2024 hearing, former Judge John Redington agreed to allow as evidence an Aug. 5, 2020, online search titled “I’ve had thoughts about killing my kid. Thoughts of killing my children – anyone else have them?”
Prosecutors argued that Safranek made those searches in addition to
Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
Sarah Safranek leaves her sentencing hearing Wednesday, Nov. 12, after pleading guilty to murdering her son, Nathaniel Burton, in 2021. She was sentenced to 35 years in prison. In the backround is Safranek’s attorney, Ogle County Public Defender Kathleen Isley.
ALICE ARJES
Born: October 24, 1940 in Mendota, IL
Died: November 7, 2025 in Gleason, WI
Alice Mae Arjes, 85, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on November 7, 2025. She was born on October 24, 1940 in Mendota, IL to Leonard and Gladys (Berry) Rosette.
On February 12, 1965, Alice married the love of her life, Allie Arjes, in Plano, IL. They shared many beautiful years together before Allie’s passing in 1975 after a brave battle with cancer. Though their time together was too short, Alice carried his love in her heart for the rest of her life.
Alice was a dedicated and passionate teacher in the Ashton School District, where she
DANN A. LUXTON
Born: December 9, 1944 in Rochelle, IL
Died: November 9, 2025 in Rochelle, IL
Rochelle
Dann Arthur Luxton, 80, passed away Sunday, November 9, 2025 at Manor Court in Rochelle, Illinois. Dann was born on December 9, 1944 to Arthur H. and Marian L. (Lambkin) Luxton in Rochelle, IL. He owned and operated a landscaping business for many years.
Dann enjoyed fishing, harness racing standardbred horses and he had an occasional itch for gambling, in which cards and craps were his preference. He was an avid Cubs and Bears
TERI
MITCHELL
Teri L. Mitchell, 72, of Rochelle, passed on 11/11/2025.
Arrangements entrusted to Unger Horner Funeral Home, Rochelle.
inspired countless students from 1962 until her retirement in 1994, just in time to welcome her first granddaughter. Teaching was more than a career to her; it was a calling and she took great joy in seeing her students grow and thrive.
After retiring, Alice loved traveling to Washington State to spend time with her daughter and granddaughters, creating lifelong memories during each visit.
A woman of many talents, Alice filled her days with creativity. She was a gifted knitter, crocheter, quilter, sewer and needleworker. Her hands were rarely still, always busy crafting something beautiful for someone she loved. She was also an avid gardener, happiest when her hands were in the soil and her flowers were in bloom.
Alice was deeply involved in her community and her church. A longtime member of Saint John’s Lutheran Church in Ashton, where she loved to “quilt with the ladies”. She especially enjoyed knitting baby sweaters for every new-
fan. His favorite pastime was hanging out with his grandchildren.
Dann is survived by his four children: Kim (Denver) Davis, Kevin (Marisol) Luxton both of Rochelle, Sarah Luxton of Paw Paw, IL and Scott (Misty) Luxton of Arizona; his brother, Don (Belinda) Luxton of Rochelle; sister, Jean (Craig) Leafblad of Eau Claire, WI; ten grandchildren: Erika, Allison, Sophie, Macy, Scott, Cindy, Johnny, Destiny, Jessica and Keira and 11 great grandchildren.
The visitation will be from 5:00 - 7:00 P.M., Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, 400 N. 6th St., Rochelle. The funeral service will be held at 10:00 A.M., Thursday, November 20. Burial will follow the service at Trinity Memory Gardens in Rochelle. A memorial will be established. Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.
CYNTHIA FRUIT
Cynthia Joyce Fruit, 75, of Lindenwood, passed on 11/12/2025.
Arrangements entrusted to Unger Horner Funeral Home, Rochelle.
born-so many that she knew the pattern by heart. After moving to Rochelle in 2006, she became a member of Faith Lutheran Church and shared her warmth and creativity with a new circle of friends.
Alice was preceded in death by her beloved husband Allie, her parents Leonard and Gladys, sisters-in-law Bea Cardot, Betty Cardot, Pat Wyatt, Helen Davis and Lynde Arjes, brothersin-law Jake Arjes, Bob Arjes, Don Arjes and Jerry Arjes.
She is survived by her brother Arthur Rosette, daughters Anita (Greg) Jines and Amber (Tim) Sexton, granddaughters Melissa (Leo) Saenz, Nyla (Allen) Beath, great grandchildren Leonidas Saenz, Bennett and Sofie Beath, brother-inlaw Richard Arjes and many loving nieces and nephews and her dear four-legged companion, Mitsy, who was always by her side.
Alice will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her endless creativity, her green thumb, and the love she poured into her family and friends. Her warmth and kindness will live on in every
quilt she stitched, every flower she tended and every heart she touched.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, November 20th, 2025, from 4:00 - 7:00 P.M at Beverage - Lyon Family Funeral Home, 704 North 6th Street Rochelle IL 61068. A visitation will also take place the next day, Friday, November 21st, 2025 from 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. at Faith Lutheran Church, 14206 East Flagg Road, Rochelle, IL 61068. A funeral will begin immediately after at 11:00 A.M. The family invites everyone to enjoy a luncheon to share memories and stories of Alice following the service. A graveside service will follow the lunch at Ashton Cemetery.
Expressions of affection in a charitable contribution in Alice’s memory are suggested to be made to Compassus Hospice (111 E Davenport St, Suite 101, Rhinelander, WI 54501) in lieu of flowers. Arrangements were entrusted to Beverage-Lyons Family Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.beveragefamilyfh.com.
Steward Road railroad crossing in Rochelle to be closed Nov. 17-21
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
City of Rochelle Engineer Sam Tesreau has announced the closure of Steward Road, at the city railroad crossing 500 feet north of the Ogle/Lee county line, beginning Monday, Nov. 17.
The closure is necessary for railroad crossing repairs and asphalt pavement restoration. This work is expected to be completed by the end of day on Nov. 21.
All traffic must use Perry Road to
Illinois Route 251 to Steward Road and vice versa.
Advance warning, road closure barricades, detour and other temporary traffic control devices will be posted near the affected area. Please use caution while traveling in this area and pay special attention to the advanced warning signage and message boards, road closed signage and other temporary traffic control devices within or in advance of the work zone. The city appreciates your patience during the project.
Continued from page 12
another, made Nov. 1, 2020, that asked “What is it called when a parent is obsessed with the thought of killing their child?”
Redington also allowed Feb. 17, 2021, searches of: “How much does cremation of a child cost?” and “How long does an investigation take after a child passes away?”
But he reserved ruling on some of the other motions made by both the prosecution and defense.
During a June 17, 2024, hearing, four prosecution witnesses testified that Nathaniel, before his death, told them that he was being abused by his mother. Defense attorneys countered that the statements were hearsay and should not be allowed as evidence.
Safanek’s jury trial was removed from the court calendar in July 2024 after prosecutors argued that some rulings made by Redington limited the evidence they wanted to present to jurors. They argued that the court’s decision had “impaired” their ability to proceed with first-degree murder charges.
Rock filed an appeal July 10, 2024, nine days after Redington ruled on sev-
ing evidentiary questions to be decided by the judge. Motions in limine in the Safranek case have been sealed and are not viewable to the public.
On Wednesday, Rock thanked the Oregon Police Department for its work on the case.
“I would like to thank the Oregon Police Department for their hard work on this case. This agreement was reached after consultation with the victim’s family and after taking into consideration the prior court’s evidentiary ruling,” Rock said.
Nathaniel was a first grade student at Oregon Elementary School. He was found unresponsive and not breathing at 2:30 a.m. Feb. 17, 2021, in his bed at home in the 400 block of South 10th Street. He was pronounced dead later that day at KSB Hospital in Dixon.
According to records obtained by Shaw Local in a Freedom of Information Act request, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services visited the house about a dozen times over two years, following up on five reports of suspected abuse and neglect.
eral motions in limine filed by the defense and prosecutors.
Motions in limine determine whether
certain evidence may be presented to the jury. They are commonly entered and argued before a trial begins, allow-
Each time, DCFS closed the case after finding no indications of parental wrongdoing.
Nathaniel was 4 when the allegations first surfaced.
COMMUNITY BOARD
Earleen Hinton for Shaw Local News Network
Ogle County Chief Public Defender Kathleen Isley (left) returns to her desk on Wednesday, Nov. 12, after giving Sarah Safranek’s signed guilty plea to Judge Anthony Peska (right). Safranek was sentenced to 35 years in prison after pleading guilty to the 2021 first degree murder of her 7-year-old son, Nathaniel Burton.
CHURCH DIRECTORY
Ashton Bible Church, corner of Main and Paddock in Ashton. Pastor Farrel Stauffer, church phone is (815)453-2190, church website www.ashtonbible.org0. Sunday School for all ages 9:00-10:00am, Morning Worship 10:15am, Wednesday Prayer Meeting/Bible Study 6:30-8:00pm.
Calvary Lighthouse Church, Assemblies of God, Senior Pastor, Dr. James Horvath. 14409 Hemstock Rd., Rochelle. Sunday Morning: Sunday Worship & Children’s Church 10:00 A.M., Wednesday Evening 7:00 P.M. – Adult Teaching, Missionettes & Royal Rangers Childrens Classes, Nursery available for all services. HE-Brews Cafe is open before and after services. For further information, please call the CLC office at 815-5627701, or email us at staff@calvarylighthouse.com
Church of Christ, Keeping Christ at the center in the Hub City. We meet Sundays at 9:00am for Bible Study and 10:00am for worship. We also have a Wednesday Bible Study at 7:00pm. 206 Erickson Rd, Rochelle, IL 61068. You can call us at (815) 562-6572 or visit us on the web at rochellechurch.com. We also have a radio program Sundays just after 8am on WRHL 1060AM. Minister Dominic Venuso.
Creston United Methodist Church - Rev. Ilhan You, Creston: 126 West South Street, P.O. Box 209, Creston, Illinois 60113. Sunday morning worship 9:00am. Coffee fellowship at 10:15am. Steward: 507 Main Street, P.O. Box 80, Steward, IL 60553. Adult Sunday School, 10:00am. Sunday morning worship and Children’s Sunday School 11:00am. Contact the church office at 847-730-4370 for more information. facebook. comcrestonumcil faccebook.com/stewardilumc
Elim Reformed Church, 140 S. Church Road, Kings, IL 61068. Phone: 815-562-6811. Email goelimchurch@gmail.com Website www.goelimchurch.org Sunday Morning Worship 10:00 Rev. Marv Jacobs
Faith Lutheran Church – (14206 E. Flagg Rd.) – “Making Christ Known Through Lives of Faith.” In-person worship is available each Sunday at 9:00 a.m. or online at “Faith Lutheran Social” on YouTube. Worship resources are also available on our Facebook page - ‘Faith Lutheran Church ELCA.’ You may also e-mail Pastor Joy Alsop at Pastor@ faithlcrochelle.org for more information. All are welcome to join us!
First General Baptist Church, 500 S. 12th St, Rochelle. Phone: 815-562-5221. Email: fgbcrochelle@gmail.com.Website: www.fgbcrochelle.org. Facebook: www.facebook. com/fgbcrochelle.Pastor: Rev. Angelo Bonacquisti. Sunday worship services: 8:30 am, 11:15 am and 6:00 pm. Sunday school: 10:00 am. We’d be honored to have you join us as we worship JESUS and continue to grow in truth and love for God and each other. A nursery, children’s church, youth group and small groups are available. If you need a ride please contact our church bus driver, John, at (815) 262-4275 by 8:30 am on Sunday. “For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
First Presbyterian Church – An Amazing Place for Amazing Grace - 1100 Calvin Road, Rochelle. Email: info@placeforgrace.com. Sunday morning worship 9:00am. In person or streamed online. On our Website and Facebook Live. www.placeforgrace.com/ www. facebook.com/placeforgrace
Harvest Baptist Church 241 Scott Ave. (Hillcrest). Rev. Duane Boehm, pastor. Email duane712@hotmail.com, cell 815-757-3427. Visit us on Facebook! Service times: Sunday morning worship with Children’s Church at 10 am. Wednesday night worship at 7 pm.
Immanuel Lutheran Church Missouri Synod 16060 E. Lindenwood Road, Lindenwood, IL 61049. Rev. Dr. Matthew Rosebrock. Church Phone 393-4500. Church Worship 9:00 a.m. Sunday School Christian Education Hour at 10:30 a.m.
Living Water Community Church 405 N. Main St, Downtown Rochelle. Phone 815561-6249, Website: www.lwccr.com, Like us on Facebook. We are Non-Denominational, Christ Centered, Casual dress, Christ Centered Live Band Worship. Mike Vogeler - Outreach and Seven C’s Pastor, Chris Bender- Teaching Pastor and Doug BungerMissions and Children’s Pastor. Sunday Worship Service- 10:00am. Nursery/Toddlers
Ages 0-5 available during the service in the Splash building. Swim- Grades 1st-5th worship with the adults then break out for age appropriate teaching. Youth groups, Small groups, Life Groups and Workshops meet throughout the year for Bible teaching. 7C’s Mission- serves the community physically & spiritually each month from 1135 Lincoln Hwy, providing lightly used clothing, Hygiene items, a light lunch and Elder Prayer open the second Saturday from 10am-2pm and the 4th Thursday from 4pm to 7:00pm and by appointment.
New Hope Fellowship (Church of God - Anderson, IN), 1501 10th Ave., Rochelle, IL 61068. Service: Sunday at 9 a.m. 10:30 a.m., (815)561-8400, www.NHFchurch.net Pastor: Dan Sergeant and Pastor Nick Tornabene. (Classes for children through age fifth grade during service.)
Rochelle United Methodist Church welcomes everyone to their worship service, and practices openness for all activities including communion. Worship is at 9:00 am. Sunday school for children begins around 9:15, following the Children’s Time in worship. A fellowship time with food and space for conversation occurs in Hicks Hall every week following the worship service. We celebrate communion with an open table on the first Sunday of every month, and on other appropriate occasions. Youth group is on Sunday evenings from 5:30-7:30. Our youth program includes service projects, discussion topics, Bible Study, and lots of fun and fellowship together. Some of our activities include packing meals at Feed My Starving Children, helping at Rochelle Christian Food Pantry and 7C’s, working with animals at Barn on Baseline, Mystery trips (Destination Unknown!), and Interactive experiences on Dating boundaries, refugees, and homelessness. Youth group is for grades 6-12 and friends are always welcome. Recorded services are available on our YouTube channel and our website at www.rochelleumc.com. Our services are on the radio (93.5 FM) on Sunday mornings at 9:00 am. Our Facebook page is www.facebook.com/rochelleumc. Our pastor is the Rev. Dr. Katherine Thomas Paisley. Our address is 709 Fourth Ave. (815) 562-2164. Email is admin@rochelleumc. com. At Rochelle United Methodist Church, everyone is welcome and loved!
Steward United Methodist Church - Rev. Ilhan You, Creston: 126 West South Street, P.O. Box 209, Creston, Illinois 60113. Sunday morning worship 9:00am. Coffee fellowship at 10:15am. Steward: 507 Main Street, P.O. Box 80, Steward, IL 60553. Adult Sunday School, 10:00am. Sunday morning worship and Children’s Sunday School 11:00am. Contact the church office at 847-730-4370 for more information. facebook. comcrestonumcil faccebook.com/stewardilumc
St. John’s Lutheran Church, 126 E. South Street, Creston. Phone 815-384-3720, Email: StJohnsLutheran@aol.com, members of NALC/LCMC. Worship is led by Pastor Terese Whitten 231-878-4150. St. John’s Lutheran Church is a part of God’s Family, planting hope, nurturing faith and harvesting love. Coffee or Fellowship at 10:00 a.m. Worship begins at 10:45 a.m. Sunday school is conducted during worship service except during the summer.
St. Patrick Catholic Church Rev. Jesus Dominguez; Deacon Prosper Agbetrobu; Deacon Fermin Garcia; Deacon George Schramm; 244 Kelley Dr. (Corner of Kelley & Caron Rd.) PO Box 329, Rochelle, IL, 61068. Office Hours: 9:00 AM - 4 PM Monday-Thursday, Phone: 815-562-2370. Mass Times: 8:00 AM Monday-Thursday, Saturday Vigil Mass: 5:00 PM English, 7 PM Spanish, Sunday Mass 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM in English and 11:00 AM in Spanish. Confessions: Monday 8:30-9:00 AM & 6:00-6:45 PM, Tuesday 8:30-9:00 AM, Thursday 6:00-6:30 PM, Saturday 4:00-4:45 PM Or by appointment. Religious Education: Erin Robles, Director of Religious Education, 903 Caron Road, Rochelle, IL 61068, 815-561-0079 or 815-562-2370. Website: stpatricksrochelle.com. Email: stpatrick-rochelle@rockforddiocese.org. Facebook.com/StPatrickRochelle.
St. Paul Lutheran Church “Building Relationships in Christ, Now and Forever!” Steven Hall, Principal, Parish Nurse-Marcia Schnorr. 1415 Tenth Ave., Rochelle. Church Office-562-2744. Worship times: 6:00 p.m. Saturday, 9:00 a.m. Sunday. Our service is broadcast over WRHL 1060AM at 10:00 a.m. Sunday. Sunday School 10:15-11:15 a.m. Call 562-6323 for more information about the school.
FUN&GAMES
Archie
B.C.
Pearls Before Swine
Frank & Ernest
Beetle Bailey
Blondie
Monty
Baby Blues
Arlo & Janis
Zits
HOW TO PLAY
Each row, column and set of 3-by-3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 through 9 without repetition.
Pickles
Wizard of Id
Alley Oop
Garfield
Hagar the Horrible
Barney Google and Snuffy Smith
Daddy Daze
JANRIC CLASSIC SUDOKU
ESTATE OF PATRICIA A MCGEE, Deceased
CLASSIFIED
CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, IL LINOIS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA A MCGEE, Deceased NO. 2025 PR 27 CL AIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of PATRICIA A. MCGEE, of ROCHELLE, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on October 31, 2025, to REBECCA L. HALVERSON, whose address is9750 N Orac le Rd., Apt 4102, Oro Valley, AZ 85704, and whose attorneys are Fearer Nye & Chadwick, LLC, 420 4th Avenue, PO Box 117, Rochelle, IL 61068
NO. 2025 PR 27 CL AIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of PATRICIA A. MCGEE, of ROCHELLE, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on October 31, 2025, to REBECCA L. HALVERSON, whose address is9750 N Orac le Rd., Apt 4102, Oro Valley, AZ 85704, and whose attorneys are Fearer Nye & Chadwick, LLC, 420 4th Avenue, PO Box 117, Rochelle, IL 61068
Claims against the Estate may be filed in the office of the Circuit Clerk of the Court at Ogle County Courthouse, Oregon, IL 61061, or with the representative , or both, no later than May 16, 2026, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it hasbeen filed.
FEARER, NYE & CHADWICK, LLC
Attorneys for REBECCA L. HALVERSON, Executor of theEstate of PATRICIA A MCGE E, deceased
Nov. 16, 23, 30, 2025
INVITATION F OR BIDS
Rochelle Municipal Utilities, Ogle County, Illinois will receive sealed bids for:
Ri tchi e to Centerpoi nt
Installation Con tract until 2:00 p.m. local time on December 18, 2025, at the City of Rochelle, 420 N. 6th Street, Rochelle, IL 61068.
A pre- bid conference will be held via a virtual meeting at 9:00 a.m. on November 20, 2025. Attendance is strongly encouraged. A Microsoft Teams invite will be sent to registered bidders.
The plans and specifications are on file with the City of Rochelle for viewing purposes only.
Copies of the documents may be acquired from BHMG Engineers, Inc , 9735 Landmark Parkway Suite 110A, St Louis, Missouri 63127, Consulting Engineers for the said Board.
Please email Amy Wooldridge, AWooldridge@bhmg.com with request.
Bids shall be received for the aforementioned items.
Claims against the Estate may be filed in the office of the Circuit Clerk of the Court at Ogle County Courthouse, Oregon, IL 61061, or with the representative , or both, no later than May 16, 2026, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it hasb filed.
A certified check or bank draft on a responsible, solvent bank, or a satisfactory bid bond executed by the bidder and an acceptable surety company, payable to the City of Rochelle, John Bearrows, Mayor or Government Bonds or cash in the amount of not less than five percent (5%) of bid, shall be submitted with each bid
The bid shall be marked to identify bid package contents, reference specification 2200 K002.
The successful bidder will be required to:
• Register as a bidder for this project
• Furnish in duplicate the following executed documents:
• Non-Collusion Affidavit
• Bid Form
• Bid Bond, Certified Check or Money Order
• And any other documents as required by the specifications
No bid shall be withdrawn after the opening of bids without the consent of the Utility for a period of sixty (60) days after the scheduled time of closing bids
The said City of Rochelle reser ves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any informalities in bidding, and to determine and accept the bid most advantageous to the Utility.
Date: November 12, 2025
City of Rochelle, Illinois John Bearrows, Mayor
November 16, 23, 30,
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
(S pecial Use for an Adult Use Can nabis In fu ser Organization or Infus er)
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given to all persons in the City of Rochelle, Ogle County, Illinois, that a public hearing will be held by the Planning and Zoning Commission on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 6:00 p.m in the Rochelle City Hall Council Chambers, 420 North 6th Street relative to the following:
Petiti on of Stash Holdings Corp. for a proposed Special Use for an adult use cannabis infuser organization or infuser. The subject property is zoned I2, General Industry, is located at 600 N. 15th Street and has a legal description of: Parcel #: 24-23-401-015
PART OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTIO N 23, IN TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 1 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
BEGINNING AT AN IRON PIN 264 FEET WEST OF THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID NORTHWEST ¼ OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4, THENCE WEST ON THE HALF SECTION LINE 6 RODS, THENCE SOUTH, PARALLEL WITH THE EAST LINE OF SAID FORTY, TO THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID FORTY, THENCE EAST 22 RODS TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID FORTY, THENCE NORTH ON SAID EAST LINE 1155 FEET TO AN IRON PIN 165 FEET SOUTH OF SAID NORTHEAST CORNER, THENCE WEST 264 FEET, AND THENCE NORTH 165 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING:
EXCEPTING THEREFROM THAT PROPERTY CONVEYED BY CORPORATION WARRANTY DEED RECORDED DECEMBER 23, 1993 IN BOOK 1993 PAGE 14536 BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: PART OF THE SOUTHEAS T 1/4 OF SECTION 23, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 1 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, BOUNDED AND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS, TO WIT:
COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SAID SECTION; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 30.90 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING FOR THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PARCEL; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 06 MINUTES 33 SECONDS WEST, ALONG THE WEST LINE OF FIFTEENTH STREET AS NOW LAID OUT AND USED, 470.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 27 SECONDS WEST, 60.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 06 MINUTES 33 SECONDS WEST, 84.32 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 27 SECONDS WEST, 95.32 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 06 MINUTES 33 SECONDS WEST, 20.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 27 SECONDS WEST, 93.68 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 06 MINUTES 33 SECONDS WEST, 124.71 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 27 SECONDS EAST, 99.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 06 MINUTES 33 SECONDS WEST, 51.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 53 MINUTES 27 SECONDS EAST, 150.00 FEET TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH THE WEST LINE OF SAID FIFTEENTH STREET; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 06 MINUTES 33 SECONDS WEST, ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID FIFTEENTH STREET, 569.20 FEET TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH THE SOUTH LINE OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SAID SECTIO N; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 56 MINUTES 59 SECONDS WEST, ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SAID SECTIO N, 332.10 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 06 MINUTES 33 SECONDS EAST, PARALLEL WITH THE EAST LINE OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SAID SECTION 1319.52 FEET TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH THE NORTH LINE OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SAID SECTION; THENCE SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SAID SECTION 332.10 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF OGLE AND THE STATE OF ILLINOIS
The petition is on file and available for examinati on in the office of the Community Development Director, 420 N 6th Street, Rochelle, Illinois, during normal business hours. All persons interested are invited to attend said hearing and be heard Anyone interes ted in partici pating in public commentary remotely should contact Miche lle Knight at mknight@rochelleil.us or call 815-562-6161 to make arrangements.
Jaydin Dickey, Carmela Bright set to lead Rochelle
Senior guards expect to take on bigger roles as RTHS prepares for season opener at Oregon tourney
By RUSS HODGES rhodges@shawmedia.com
A preseason meeting between coach Jon Gehm and returning players helped dictate the goals and expectations for the Rochelle girls basketball team this season. With key senior leaders like Jaydin Dickey and Carmela Bright back in the fold, the Lady Hubs will look to build on their 8-23 record from last season.
“We had a sit-down conversation and talked about what the season needs to look like for us,” said Gehm, who enters his third season as
Rochelle’s head coach. “So far, they’ve been proving that on the floor every night. They’re walking the walk and we appreciate that. It’s been a really good environment and we can tell they want to get better and grow. It’s a fairly young group.”
Seeking their first winning season since 2012, the Lady Hubs took the court for their first practice of the year. Rochelle will begin the season with an Oregon Tip Off Tournament game against Genoa-Kingston on Nov. 19.
The Lady Hubs are rebuilding in the frontcourt after losing multiple seniors, including All-Interstate 8 forward Kendyl Darby, to graduation.
“We’re pretty thin in the frontcourt right now,” Gehm said. “We really are a guard-dominant team right now ... We have to realize that our strength is probably on the perimeter, but there’s a weakness with rebounding. When you lose players
like Kendyl and Abby [Metzger], other girls have to step up and rebound the basketball. That’ll dictate playing time at those positions.”
Despite limited frontcourt depth, the Lady Hubs return key backcourt players including Dickey, a thirdyear varsity guard who earned an Honorable Mention in the Interstate 8 last season. Bright, who started at point guard for Rochelle last winter, underwent an offseason knee procedure, but should be a big contributor with her shooting, ball handling and defense.
“I have confidence and I think we’ll be fine once we make our connections,” Dickey said. “There are a few of us who have to step up in a leadership role. We’re small, but we’re quick and if we can put our hands up and get into the passing lanes on defense, then we’ll be fine because we can run the floor pretty well... Our goals are to improve our teamwork
and communication.”
The Lady Hubs will look for sophomore guards like Audrina Rodriguez, Gianna Olguin and Natalie Foster to help shoulder the backcourt load. On the wings, players such as Reese Kissack, Mary Chadwick and Dylan Etes will have opportunities to emerge after largely playing JV minutes last winter. Rochelle will attempt to climb the Interstate 8 ladder after going 1-9 last season.
“Last year, we had some moments where we started to play together on the outside,” Gehm said. “We could see some better ball movement at times, but there were too many times where the ball would stick offensively and that can’t happen this year. Our strength has to be swinging the ball, putting the ball in our playmaker’s hands and making quick decisions. Defensively, we didn’t see enough ball pressure and that has to change this year.”
Anticipated playoff game: Byron v. ICC is Saturday, Nov. 15
It’s finally here. The game that area high school football fans had earmarked since the season began. Byron versus Immaculate Conception Catholic Prep of Elmhurst at 2 p.m. Saturday at Byron.
Both teams know what is at stake. It was four years ago that the Tigers stunned ICC with a 15-14 comeback win on their way to the Class 3A state title. Sandwiched around that was a 7-0 win by ICC in 2017 and a 35-0 victory in 2022.
Coming from the rugged Chicago Catholic League, the Knights have won four state titles under coach Bill Krefft and are 28-2 against public schools in the playoffs. Other than Byron, the only other public school to hang a loss on them was Richmond Burton, which could be waiting in the semifinal for the winner.
Under Jeff Boyer, Byron is a public school rarity in that it has a winning playoff record (5-4) against the privates. In winning six state titles, Mike Lalor of Stillman Valley has a 9-7 record against them.
As much as many of us complain about the competitive disparity between public and privates, we sure have been treated to some scintillating games with Byron and Stillman Valley against the “evil empire.” There will be drama played
out Saturday at Byron, just like there was last year in Lombard.
Realizing my limitations as a football evaluator, I cannot offer any predictions, especially with such different styles of ball and no common opponents.
Here’s what I do know watching numerous area schools against the Chicago suburbs. There is a more disciplined brand of football around here. Because of the wide swath of population, there is more athleticism, speed and skill around Chicago.
Coaching is coaching. Both Byron and ICC have great staffs. There’s even former NFL players coaching on each team with Sean Considine and Matt Bowen. Both have sons who should play pivotal roles.
Senior Caden Considine will be the biggest star on the field and the one most capable of being a game changer. As a freshman, it was a long run against Reed Custer that turned the tide in a game that
was getting away from the Tigers early on.
Two years ago, he stymied a potential Montini game-winning drive with an interception. Against the proficient passing game of ICC, that kind of defense will be needed.
It is critical for Byron to play smart – it has a history of doing so – and exert its physical presence. Another huge asset is an experienced quarterback in Andrew Talbert, who might be as shifty as anyone ICC has seen. It also may take awhile for ICC to become accustomed to the running game Byron employs.
Make no mistake about it. ICC is very talented and hungry to win a state title after missing the playoffs last year. After playing much larger schools, it won’t be fazed one bit about coming into Byron as most other schools are.
After being on the state cross country beat last weekend, I excitedly look forward to being in Byron to cover this game on what looks like a beautiful November day.
With Rochelle out of the playoffs, I volunteered to cover Dixon’s quest to win the Class 2A cross country state title. After a disappointing 49-42 loss by the Dukes football team to Coal City the night before,
the runners brought the state championship trophy home accompanied by a police and fire escort.
The sport of cross country is so cool with everyone cheering everyone else on. Thousands of fans line iconic Detweiller Park in Peoria all day for six separate races for 1A/2A/3A boys and girls.
It is a sight to behold with an announcer in the lead truck giving playby-play the entire race as cross country is one of the hardest spectator sports to watch in person. School colors from every corner of Illinois are present and such a cheerful gathering of such diverse areas gives one hope for our future.
Polo gets to make a road trip to South Fork High School in Kincaid, a bit southeast of Springfield. It’s neat the kids and fans get to travel 200 miles to see a different area and team. Amboy and Milledgeville, meanwhile, are locked into a familiar rematch in the other 8-man semifinal.
Did you know that Kincaid is the birthplace of a Chicago Cubs catcher from the 1950s, Harry Chiti?
• Andy Colbert is a sports writer for Shaw Local covering high school sports inOgleCounty.
Andy Colbert SPORTS VIEWS
Jalen Macon leads NIU to big win at UMass
By EDDIE CARIFIO ecarifio@shawmedia.com
Jalen Macon’s first career start was one to remember.
Macon ran for three touchdowns, threw for one and helped NIU roll past UMass 45-3 on Wednesday in Amherst, Massachusetts, in the team’s final Mid-American Conference road game.
“I was just trying to get into the flow of things, really,” Macon said. “I wanted to get the running backs going, using that game plan. Then that started getting me going with my legs.”
Macon got the start in place of Josh Holst, who was injured against Toledo last week. Macon also jumped ahead of true freshman Brady Davidson, who made two starts earlier this year.
Macon has spent the past couple of seasons competing with Holst for the starting quarterback job during the offseason. He hurt the thumb on his throwing hand earlier this season and has been used sparingly, mostly in running situations this year.
“His thumb is still getting back to where it needs to be,” NIU coach Thomas Hammock said. “I thought pregame he threw the ball well. He provides another element from an offensive perspective. They have to defend the quarterback. He’s a true guy that can throw and run and opens things up for everyone else.”
Macon said he suspected that after the Toledo game, he may be starting after Hammock texted him, asking about his thumb.
“I kind of had some thoughts about what that was leading to,” Macon said. “It wasn’t until the next day or whatnot when we got into the meeting. ... [Quinn Sanders, offensive coordinator] had a talk with us and he let me know then it would be this week.”
The Huskies (3-7 overall, 2-4 MAC) scored on their first seven drives of the game. They settled for a field goal after starting on their own 25 thanks to a blocked punt by true freshman Kimar Nelson.
They scored more points Wednesday than they had in any two games combined this season. It was the most points they scored in a game since a 54-15 win against Western Illinois at the start of last year and the most against an FCS team since a 55-14 win against Akron on Oct. 17, 2023. It was the second-highest point total allowed by the Minutemen this season (0-10, 0-6).
“I think our players felt it,” Hammock said. “They worked really hard at practice and continued to do the things we asked them to do. I really appreciate the hard work and the effort the players and coaches have put into this to make sure we continue to try to play football the way we know how to.”
NIU scored touchdowns on the next six drives. Macon had four of them as NIU built up a 31-0 halftime lead.
Macon scored on a 1-yard run at the end of the first half, capping a 13-play drive set up when Lance Ingold sacked quarterback Brandon Rose and forced a fumble that Dasean Dixon recovered.
The Huskies opened the second half
with the ball, scoring on a 36-yard run by Macon.
Macon came out of the game on the next NIU drive. Davidson led a twoplay scoring drive, finding Gary Givens III for a 31-yard touchdown and a 45-0 lead.
Macon attempted four passes, completing three for 73 yards. He had a touchdown pass to Elijah Porter from 67 yards. He also ran 12 times for 98 yards and three touchdowns.
NIU finished with 433 yards of total offense and rushed for 318, both season highs. Chavon Wright ran 12 times for 86 yards and a touchdown. Laz Rogers ran 12 times for 60 yards.
It was also a huge game for the defense against the worst scoring offense in the country. A late field goal prevented the first NIU shutout since a 24-0 win against Western Michigan on Nov. 24, 2023.
It matched the lowest point total for the Minutemen this year, set in a 21-3 loss to Western Michigan.
“The offense went on the field, did what they had to do. The defense went on the field, did what we had to do,” said Jacob Finley, who led the Huskies with 14 tackles. “We played a great game together. Going off each other, going off the offense’s energy and the offense going off the defense’s energy.”
Shaw Local News Network file photo
Northern Illinois University’s quarterback Jalen Macon runs the ball while gaining some yards before being brought down by Miami of Ohio defenders during the game last month at Huskie Stadium.
SPORTS
TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY
1957: Celtics’ Bill Russell sets NBA record of 49 rebounds in win at Boston Gardens. 2003: Lionel Messi, 16, makes debut with FC Barcelona as a substitute vs. Porto.
Sunday, November 16, 2025
HUBS’ GIRLS
BASKETBALL PREVIEW
Rochelle seniors Jaydin Dickey and Carmela Bright expected to take on bigger roles as team prepares for opener at Oregon Tip Off Tournament / 20
DeKalb’s Zora Watts (left) makes a basket while being defended by Rochelle’s Carmela Bright (right) on Dec. 2, 2024, at DeKalb High School. Shaw Local News Network file photo