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POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS VOLUME 162 NO. 12 • SERVING THE POLO AREA SINCE 1857

FRIDAY, May 29, 2020 • $1.00

COUNTY NEWS

Venue Woes

FUNNEL CLOUD

The closure of White Pines Resort impacts couple’s wedding. / 11

COUNTY NEWS

Fair Cancelled

The Ogle County Fair is cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. / 22

Class of 2020 Graduates from

Oregon, Polo, and Forreston are pictured on these pages. / 13-20

Greg Moran of Sterling caught one of Saturday’s five tornados form, this one around 3:05 p.m. over Milledgeville. No injuries were reported. A tornado did touch down near Chana. Turn to page 28 to read about that and see more photos.

One Section - 32 Pages

INDEX Betty’s Column......... 5 Business News.......... 4 Church News............12 Classifieds......... 29-32

COVID-19 Update...... 3 Education News.......21 Library News............. 8 Otto’s Column........... 6

Pine Creek News...... 2 Property Transfers.. 24 Reading Matters..... 10 Sheriff Activity........ 23

DEATHS Published every Friday

by Ogle County Newspapers, a division of Shaw Media

Bessie E. “Bess” Brantner, Brian H. Ely - Page 23

Tri-County Press / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| POLO BEAT

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POLO

Tri-County Press oglecountynews.com OFFICE 113-115 Peoria Ave. Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 732-6166 ext. 2592 Fax: (815) 284-2078 SUBSCRIPTIONS $39 in Ogle County, and $52 outside Ogle County.

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Copyright 2020

CITY COUNCIL

Possible annexation of land approved One alderman takes issue with decision

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com The Polo City Council approved a petition on May 18 to get the ball rolling on the possible annexation of 40 acres of undeveloped land bordering the city’s western limits – at least in part to help the elected city clerk keep her job, the mayor admitted.

The land, between the Buffalo Creek subdivision and Oregon Trail Road, belongs to David and Laurie Sherrick, who want to build a subdivision with some sort of city support, or sell it to the city so it can develop it. They filed the petition seeking the annexation, which could be voted on as soon as the June 1 meeting.

City Clerk Sydney Bartelt recently purchased property contiguous to the Sherricks’ and outside city limits that, were she to move there, would force her to give up the position. If the Sherricks’ land is annexed, though, hers could be next, which is one of the reasons for the petition, Mayor Doug Knapp said at Monday’s council meeting.

It’s not the main reason, though, Knapp said.

He also cited potential tax revenue

Pine Creek News By Karen Merlak

The unofficial start of summer is here. It feels good to open the windows and bring fresh air into the house. With each change of the seasons, we can count on the constant presence of our heavenly Father. Our God is an awesome god.

This morning for church, Pastor Charlotte Hoppe shared a Facebook message from guest preacher, Pastor Eli Rolon Jeong, regional staff minister from the Christian Church in Illinois and Wisconsin. Charlotte enjoyed a well-deserved week of vacation.

This afternoon, I had a nice long phone visit with my son, Matt. He shared stories about his work, fishing, his pets, and his wife, Ema. Ema is able to return to work starting next week. In the meantime, they have both been working on projects around the house.

Early Saturday morning, I drove up to

from the development of the Sherrick property or other development on Oregon Trail Road, and the desire to have the sewer treatment plant inside the city limits, although he said he was “not sure” what the benefits of that would be.

Alderman Donald Sanders Jr. was the lone vote against the annexation petition, which he said is being put forth solely to later annex Bartelt’s land and save her job, at least until the next election.

“I’m not for drawing new lines so one elected official can be annexed in,” Sanders said.

Bartelt ran unopposed for city clerk in April 2017, taking over from Susie Corbitt, who declined to run again after holding the job for 24 years.

Her term is up in 2021, and to be city clerk, she must live within city limits.

Sanders claimed that Knapp, Bartelt and City Attorney Tom Suits held “secret meetings” on the issue that didn’t involve the entirety of the council.

“That’s absolutely a false accusation,” Knapp said. “Everything was done with economic development. The reason [council members] weren’t involved yet is because we weren’t far enough yet.

“There were no undocumented meetings.”

It would be a violation of the Open Meetings Act if three voting council members discussed the issue together in private. A meeting between Knapp, Bar-

telt and Suits wouldn’t be a violation, because only Knapp has voting power.

Other meetings were held between Knapp, Alderman Randy Schoon and the city’s economic development committee regarding the Sherrick annexation.

Sanders said he thinks the Sherricks agreed to the annexation of their land because they want the city to buy it.

“The Sherricks own a subdivision,” Sanders said. “They asked us to reorganize it. Now there’s a group of people in town on the economic development committee and some on the council that want the city to purchase that land and develop it. We don’t need to be in the real estate business.”

It’s clear that, in addition to buying the subdivision, the city wants eventually to annex Bartelt’s land – the sewage treatment plant being outside city limits never was an issue until now, Sanders said Knapp said it’s possible the city will buy the subdivision in the future, but the Sherricks agreed to support the annexation regardless.

It’s “not a guarantee” that the annexation of Bartelt’s land will happen, he said, but later said it likely will be on an agenda that’s “coming up.”

Knapp doesn’t see a conflict if the city choose to annex Bartelt’s land.

“It’s in my heart that she’s the best person for the job,” Knapp said. “She goes above and beyond.”

Minneapolis, Minnesota to visit with Stephanie and her boyfriend, João Halab. They have solidified their plans to make the move to Houston. The movers are coming in a couple of weeks and they are leaving June 13.

I made it up in time for lunch. While some places have started opening, we elected to stay in. João’s mom, Lucy, joined us for dinner. Stephanie has turned into an amazing cook, far exceeding my own skills.

We had a great visit hearing about their new apartment and new job for João. Their new place is also dog-friendly so Stephanie will finally get to have a dog. Since she will be working from home, she will be able to take care of their new addition.

On Sunday morning, Stephanie made breakfast for us before I headed back home.

This is most likely my last trip to the area since they are leaving. I still remember the first time we moved her into her dorm room in 2012.

Over the past years, I have made several trips to this area. Traveling in every season, Stephanie has shown us around to popular tourist places and little known restaurants.

She is going to miss her friends and spending summers in Minneapolis.

When Stephanie was a senior in high school, she came to me and said she found the school she wanted to attend. This was the first time I had ever heard of St. Catherine University. She asked that we visit two

schools, St. Kate’s, and the Art Institute of Chicago.

We were glad to take her to both choices.

She has always loved the city. She was very excited at the prospect of attending school in Chicago. We planned the trip to Minneapolis to visit the school in May, in fact, the same day as her senior prom.

Stephanie loved both schools, but quickly made her decision to attend St. Kate’s in St. Paul. That decision opened many opportunities for her, including working for Target in their corporate office, which led to her current job, and meeting João.

There are many situations where it is obvious that God played a part in making it happen. I have several friends that I’ve met by chance and we realize that it was supposed to be. Every decision, good or bad, can be made into a blessing when God is at the center.

I hope to see your “check-in” next Sunday as we meet on Facebook Live with Pastor Charlotte Hoppe back from vacation. Please continue to be safe as we move into the next phase of the quarantine.

We are looking forward to opening the doors of our new church building. Even more so, we are looking forward to spending time with our church family. Until then, we will continue to worship in our homes where our love for God and each other knows no bounds.

COVID-19 UPDATE

OCHD lists guidelines for businesses that serve food

144 recoveries have been reported so far

The Ogle County Health Department has offered this information for consumers and business establishments who are reopening under Phase 3 of Restore Illinois.

These guides are for businesses that are full-service restaurants, limited-service restaurants, snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars, taverns, and other food services and drinking places licensed to serve food, beverages and liquor by the relevant local jurisdiction and State Liquor Control Board.

In Phase III, services for restaurants and bars should be limited to: Outdoor dining and/or drinking only and parties of six persons or fewer.

Ogle County tops 200 for COVID-19 cases

For the purposes of these guidelines, a dining or drinking area is considered an outdoor dining or drinking area if the area meets any of the following criteria: Located on the rooftop of a building or within establishment with retractable roof or an outdoor space connected to or located on the site of a restaurant, grocery store, health or fitness center, hotel, golf club, or other social club with a food establishment license.

Indoor spaces where 50% or more of a wall can be removed via the opening of windows, doors, or panels provided that dining tables are within 8-ft from such opening.

See GUIDELINES, Page 4

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com The Ogle County Health Department reported nine new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, May 26, totaling 202.

Recoveries now stand at 144 after 11 were confirmed Tuesday. Ogle County has had two deaths due to COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic.

Ages and locations of the individuals are not being released to protect their privacy.

The Illinois Department of Public Health site said Tuesday that there are 123 cases in the 61068 zip

code that includes Rochelle, Creston and White Rock.

Stillman Valley’s zip code, 61084, has seven cases in it according to the IDPH site. Byron’s zip code, 61010, has 11 cases.

The zip codes that house Oregon (61061) and Mt. Morris (61054) have 10 and seven cases, respectively.

Polo’s zip code, 61064, has 10 cases in it.

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3 OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

PUBLIC HEALTH

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

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COVID-19 & BUSINESS

Restaurants, bars prepare for outdoor reopening

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com Melissa and Jason Stombaugh decided carry out wasn’t for them during the COVID-19 pandemic closings.

Instead, Sledgehammer’s co-owners decided to install an outdoor patio area at their Oregon restaurant and bar.

It’ll come in handy on May 29.

That’s when the state will allow for outdoor-only dining and drinking while practicing social distancing.

“I think it’ll be packed,” Melissa said. “The weather is supposed to be good. We’re a biker destination.

We have a new deck on a historical building. It’s more of a destination now.”

Sledgehammer’s plans to have a band each night of the reopening weekend. A mixed drink bar will be outdoors with horse troughs full of beer on ice.

The Stombaughs are waiting to hear from the Ogle County Health Department on other issues like whether or not patrons can use indoor restrooms or whether portable ones will be necessary.

“We’re a small town and we had a lot of people say they’re coming and live music is a big draw,” Melissa said. “We expect at least 80 percent of our normal clientele plus those that are tired of being cooped up.”

There are no plans for extra security to enforce social distancing.

That responsibility will fall on bartenders, she said. Tables will be placed six feet apart from each other and servers will be wearing masks.

The Ogle County Health Department released some guidelines for restaurants that will be reopening on its Facebook page on Friday.

The post recommended that restaurants provide handwashing stations, hand sanitizer and signage

• GUIDELINES Continued from Page 3 Any other outdoor dining and drinking areas authorized by local governments provided that food and drinks are prepared by licensed food or liquor establishments and that proper social distancing of 6-ft between designated customer tables and/or other seating areas is observed and parties are of six persons or fewer.

For the purposes of these guidelines, businesses may be subject to

Alex T. Paschal/Shaw Media

Melissa, Jason and Ryder Stombaugh sit on the nearly finished deck at Sledgehammers in Oregon. The restaurant/bar will be opening up the deck this Friday when Illinois moves into phase three of their reopening plan. outlining distancing rules.

“Be sure that your expectations are clear, and that you have a plan to address instances when employees or customers do not comply with your procedures,” the OCHD post said.

The OCHD said it has fielded many questions from restaurant operators regarding use of various types of outdoor areas as well as restrooms, max capacity and more.

They expect the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will address those concerns.

Food preparation will have to occur inside establishments. Restaurants were asked to contact local

building authorities or municipalities regarding outdoor seating, use of decks, tents, canopies and public restrooms.

“It is most likely that fully enclosed tents will not be permissible as it would essentially create an indoor environment,” the OCHD said.

When the news of outdoor reopenings came, Oregon Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Liz Vos got right to work and called every restaurant and bar in town.

“It’s going to help tremendously,” Vos said. “It’s not as much as before all this, but at least it’s in the right direction.”

Oregon Mayor Ken Williams said the city is looking at ways to help the

restaurants and bars do business, including letting them place chairs on city property such as parking lots. Streets likely won’t be blocked off for them.

There was an item on Oregon’s City Council agenda for Tuesday that would place a 45-day moratorium on a law that currently doesn’t allow on city property.

additional regulations on outdoor dining by units of local government and local health departments.

Minimum guidelines for general health are as follows.

1. Employees should wear face coverings over their nose and mouth when within 6-ft. of others (cloth masks preferred). Exceptions may be made where accommodations are appropriate – see IDHR’s guidance.

2. Arrange seating to provide a minimum of 6-ft between tables. Use of plexiglass between tables is a best practice.

3. Employer should provide hand

washing capability or sanitizer to employees and customers 4. Bar and restaurant employees should wash hands for 20 seconds every 30 minutes, and: a. Upon arrival to work b. Prior to and during food preparation c. When switching between tasks d. Before donning gloves to work with food or clean equipment and utensils e. After using the restroom f. After handling soiled dishes and utensils g. When visibly soiled

h. After coughing, sneezing, using a tissue, touching face, i. After eating or drinking j. After smoking or vaping k. After handling cell phone 5. An adequate supply of soap, disinfectant, hand sanitizer, and paper towels must be available 6. Gloves should be worn by staff preparing food per pre-COVID food handling protocols, such as handling Ready to Eat (RTE) foods.

For more information visit www2.illinois.gov/dceo/pages/ restoreILP3 or the Ogle County Health Department’s Facebook page.

“We’d still have to fence off the area so people aren’t wandering around the city with alcohol,” Williams said. “We have no plans for police placement. If there are groups gathering, a policeman driving by may ask them to not have people together. Our current policy is to follow the guidelines.”

LOCAL HISTORY

BY BETTY OBENDORF Curator, Polo Historical Society

hard work of running this type of business.

He not only is saving two downtown buildings but he will bring back traffic to this small town. All this at a time when small businesses are closing.

I am an avid reader of newspapers and recently in the column of Jim Nolan he stated that there are 100,000 mom and pop businesses that have closed permanently.

He also stated that we are going to have to learn to live and adapt with viruses.

I have had a hard time keeping Kenneth in and each day he asks if the restaurants are open yet. Pretty soon all the pot roast dinners and banana splits are simply not going to work anymore. He is a social person and he wants to be with his friends.

We are going to have to get going again and figure out how to do it safely for ninety year olds!!

We keep hearing how our country was not prepared and yet my brother tells me our country was better prepared than any other according to a John Hopkins report.

Betty Obendorf’s granddaughter shows her new work gear as a dental hygienist.

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Today is our granddaughter Clare’s birthday and she has been back to work now for over a week.

Her job is high on the list for contamination by the virus. She is a dental hygienist and lives in Champaign.

When her picture came through with her new outfit, I thought she looked like she was ready to do some kind of surgery.

When the quarantine was started, Clare quickly emailed the family to remember to floss and brush each day as we stayed at home. She is definitely a caregiver.

During her four years at Southern Illinois University they really centered on cross-contamination. Did they know this virus was coming and were they busy getting students prepared?

Clare is confident she can handle all the new requirements for her job.

It is a good feeling to know that she is back on the job since that means others have gone back to work. We will all feel better as more

of our nation moves back into the workforce outside of our homes. I think we all will feel better when more of our businesses open back up.

In our family, when we see businesses closing, we are watching the near opening of our granddaughter’s husband’s new restaurant in Marshville, North Carolina. The pictures are being posted daily and this is a dream come true for Melvin.

When we went down to Winston-Salem for our great granddaughter Anna Fay’s christening last August, we went on down to Marshville.

We looked at the two buildings standing together and poured over all the building plans on the table at their home.

It looked like a big undertaking and I thought this will take a long time. But here they are ready to open and it has not been a year.

Several brick walls were uncovered and that adds to the atmosphere of the place.

Melvin was part of a family with a restaurant and he grew up working there. So he is well versed on the

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Work gear looks very different during COVID-19

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Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

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LOCAL HISTORY

Stauffer family suffered through untimely deaths Editor’s note: Otto Dick, Oregon has researched the people, places and events important in the Oregon area’s history for the Ogle County Historical Society. The following is one of a series of the articles he has written.

BY OTTO DICK One of my present projects is researching people buried at Riverside Cemetery. Our cemeteries are much more that a number of tombstones.

This cemetery was first called the burying grounds owned by the county. Later it was turned over to the City of Oregon.

Researching these early families of Oregon and vicinity is a constant reminder of the high mortality rate of many of these families.

The Levi Stauffer impressive marker is located in the south section of Riverside Cemetery.

Ten names are listed in the Stauffer Cemetery plot. Levi, his wife Eva and eight other family members are listed. The father and three of his children named Helen, Alice and Floyd all died in 1877. Two others of his children passed away before he died.

Levi started out as a trader in stock in Butler County, Pennsylvania. He was born in Pennsylvania on July 24, 1848. Following his marriage to Eva Shaffer in 1873 they came to Oregon in 1876 with their two children Sallie and Albert.

The following 1877 Stauffer obituary: “Died In Oregon, of scarlet fever, December 14th A.M., daughter of Ms. Eva Stauffer. Age about four years. This afflicted lady buried two other children within five months

Levi Stauffer was born on July 25, 1848 and died on Nov. 15, 1887. He is buried at Riverside Cemetery in Oregon as are other members of his family. Photos by Otto Dick and her husband four weeks ago last Sunday. Her cup is full to overflowing.”

The 1898 Oregon Directory shows the Stauffers living at 800 S. 5th St. This is now a parking lot. The occupants were his wife Eva, son Lee listed as a messenger and Miss Stella a teacher.

Lev’s and Eva’s son Lee passed away at age 25 in California with his mother at his bedside. She accompanied his remains back to Oregon.

Originally he was a telegraph operator for the Burlington Railroad in this vicinity. He moved to California and worked as a Telegraph Operator for the Southern Pacific Railroad.

Their daughter Estelle Marie Stauffer grew up in south Oregon

and received her education in the Oregon public schools and graduated with the class of 1898 at Oregon High School.

She taught several terms in the country schools. She married the son of John L. Smith, general superintendent of the Schiller piano factory.

Her brother Floyd was a lifelong resident of Oregon and a WWI veteran. Floyd died when he was 73 as a result of a car accident in Oregon.

He died in the veterans’ hospital from a broken leg and other injuries.

At Riverside Cemetery are buried many infant deaths. The lifespan of many others were short. Several died from accidents, drowning in the Rock River and one shot.

Many of our settlers moved to this

location seeking less crowded conditions of the East Coast.

We complain about so many things today, however what we see as difficulties are minor and minuscule compared to what our early settlers faced.

If anyone has information or are related to this Stauffer Family I would appreciate it. I have no photos of this family and their family home site is now loaded with used cars.

This family suffered what I would call a living hell.

Lets think and talk about the good things in life, enjoy what we have and help others.

Respect and love goes a long way.

Each one of us is a unique human being, a product of our inheritance and our daily life experiences.

Did You Know?

Kathy Bouska, retired Oregon School District teacher, was one of the first children’s librarians at the Oregon Public Library? Even when Kathy returned to teaching she, and her husband George, also retired Oregon School District teacher, continued to be supporters of the Library by encouraging their students to read, discover and investigate through reading.

They have also been very generous with book donations and sharing their “tools of the trade” with the children’s librarians that have followed.

We will miss seeing both of them at

the Library and around town. They are going on a new adventure and relocating to Montana to be closer to family.

Best wishes to Kathy and George, you will be missed!

brary.readsquared.com/ . Please answer the registration questions and complete the form to be placed in the appropriate group.

We will be communicating with our participants throughout the summer as this is a new online program and we are creating things as we go. If you do not have internet access, please call the Library and leave a message with contact info and one of the staff will contact you.

Summer Reading activities will begin Monday, June 1. We will still be having

OREGON LIBRARY Library Closure Due to the shelter in place order the Oregon Public Library will be closed until further notice. All programs have also been cancelled.

We hope to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and contribute to the health of the community.

Since we are a fine free library you will not be accruing fines for overdue materials, so don’t worry about returning your items.

Use our WiFi outside of our building by connecting to the Oregon Library Guest Access WiFi network that doesn’t need a password.

2020 Summer Reading Program Dig Deeper, Read, Investigate, Discover!

Join us this summer for our virtual summer reading program! Due to COVID-19 constraints the summer reading programs at Oregon Public Library will be a bit different from previous years, but it will go on.

You may now register for READsquared at http://oregonpublicli-

See OREGON LIBRARY, Page 7

• OREGON LIBRARY

the online form or email Mt. Morris library at mmlib@mtmorris-il.org.

Continued from Page 6

Summer reading program registration has begun! Check the Oregon Public Library’s website to see how to participate in this year’s summer reading program.

com/ or download Libby today.

FHN’S MILES AN D MINUTES

Big News!

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mt. Morris and Oregon Public Libraries are temporarily waiving non resident fees and offering that anyone living within the boundaries of the Oregon Unit School District can sign up for a temporary library card.

PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING! FHN encourages you to practice social distancing as you log various types of physical activity to win prize money for the school system of your choice.

This special digital card will allow access to the library’s electronic resources for a limited time period which will be helpful in supporting students’ e-learning as well as meet other informational and recreational needs.

This temporary card is valid until Sept. 1.

To apply for a free temporary card, please visit http://oregonpubliclibrary. com/services/library-cards/ to complete

Video Story Time We are continuing to post a Video Story Time to our Facebook page every Thursday while the Library is closed.

It might be just stories and suggested activities or maybe some off- site guests.

So check out the Oregon Public Library Facebook page.

Sign up for some healthy competition!

School Systems in FHN Service Area

Your summer sports and other physical activity can help schools within FHN’s service area! FHN’s Miles And Minutes program encourages you to be active as you log various types of physical activity to win prize money for the school system of your choice.

Dakota School District

Register for this online program at www.fhn.org/ milesandminutes. All of the rules of the competition are there, as well as information about how miles and minutes will be calculated to determine the winning school systems.

Freeport School District

Competition begins Monday, June 1, 2020 through Sunday, August 30, 2020. Questions? Call FHN marketing at 1-877-6000-FHN (1-877-600-0346) ext. 901.

Pearl City School District

Prize money awarded for: • School system with the most average “miles” logged per participant • School system with the most “miles” total • Schools not eligible for above prizes will be entered into a drawing to win one of three cash prizes.

Stockton School District

Aquin Schools Chadwick-Milledgeville Durand School District East Dubuque School District Eastland School District Forrestville Valley School District Galena School District Immanuel Lutheran School Lena-Winslow School District Orangeville School District Pecatonica School District River Ridge School District Scales Mound School District Tri-County Christian School Warren School District West Carroll School District

• Friday, May 29, 2020

We Now Have Overdrive for E Books!

Readers may browse OPL’s digital collection, instantly borrow titles and start reading or listening for free with a valid library card. This service is compatible with all major computers and devices, iPhone®, iPad®, Android™ phones and tablets and Chromebook™ without wait lists or holds.

Through Libby, readers can also “send to Kindle®”. All titles will automatically expire at the end of the lending period and there are no late fees. Readers can also download titles onto Libby for offline use. To get started enjoying ebooks, audiobooks and more, visit https://omnilibraries.overdrive.

What Ya Watchin’ Wednesdays every other Wednesday Join the Library Director, Hilaree Lombardo and Adult Programming’s, Cari Berg to discuss what you are watching during shelter-in-place.

We will share our thoughts on various television shows, Netflix series, Movies, Podcasts, and more.

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Talented Tuesdays - Every Tuesday Visit our Facebook page every Tuesday and look for the Talented Tuesday post. Each week will feature a staff member and their talent or hobby.

If you have a talent or hobby you’d like to share through our Facebook page, email cbergoply@gmail.com and we’d be happy to share your talent!

Mystery Photos, Lego Club, prizes, incentives, virtual events, and missions, they’ll just be a little different.

Looking forward to a unique summer and thank you for your patience with this new way of summer reading!

You can also email us at oregonlibrary.SRP@gmail.com with questions about all things related to Summer Reading!

7

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

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POLO LIBRARY Curbside Delivery - June 1 Beginning June 1, we will provide curbside delivery of prearranged orders of materials.

To take advantage of this service, call the library at 815-946-2713 or email library@pololibrary.org at least one business day prior to your desired pick up day, and give us a list of what you’d like (10 item maximum). Pickup will be available according to the following alternating week schedule: June 1-7 - Monday 10-2, Wednesday 3-7, Friday 10-2 June 8-14 - Tuesday 10-2, Thursday 3-7, Saturday 10-2 June 15-21 - Monday 10-2, Wednesday 3-7, Friday 10-2 June 22-27 - Tuesday 10-2, Thursday 3-7, Saturday 10-2 The book drop is available 24/7 for returns. Dates for all services are subject to change based on significant

fluctuations in the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ogle County.

The library building will remain closed at this time. However, further reopening steps are part of a phased plan that is currently in place, which takes into account the safe business practice recommendations of local, state, and national health organizations, area case numbers, and the availability of cleaning and protective supplies.

We ask that you continue to return items, as you are done with them, through the book drop that will continue to be open 24/7.

We are very excited to be able to get books, movies and more out to all of you starting on June 1, and we will communicate any further reopening steps via the library’s website, www.pololibrary. org; Facebook page, Facebook.com/ Polo Library; newspaper articles, and the library newsletter.

FORRESTON LIBRARY Library Closure To help prevent the spread of COVID19, Forreston Public Library will remain closed until further notice. All programs/ activities are cancelled and all due dates have been extended. You may return materials in the book drop at any time. eBooks/WiFi Even though the library is closed, you may still enjoy eBooks through Axis 360 and Biblioboard. If you would like more information on creating an account, please message us on Facebook or

email forrestonpubliclibrary@gmail. com and we’ll help you get set up.

You may also access the internet outside the library by connecting to our WiFi. No password is required.

Library Updates Please continue to check our Facebook page for the most current information on our summer plans.

Also, if you have any questions or needs, please feel free to contact us through email, Facebook messenger, or by phone at 815-938-2624.

Online Resources Download Axis 360, OMNI/Overdrive, Libby, and Biblioboard for books and audiobooks. Links to these resources are available at pololibrary.org Need a Library Card?

If you are new to Polo and haven’t had a chance to get a library card, or maybe you aren’t normally a reader but would like to try ebooks during this time, we will be issuing temporary library cards for people in Buffalo Township. If you are interested in this, please email library@pololibrary.org for more information.

Materials Renewed All currently checked out materials have been renewed until June 26 2020 Summer Reading Program June 1 - July 31 - “Dig Deeper: Read, Investigate, Discover!”

Our 2020 Summer Reading Program has gone digital! We have programs for all ages. Visit our website, pololibrary. org, to register.

Read for a Cause

With the help of Community Partners, our Summer Reading Program can make a difference. Instead of physical prizes this year, we will be reading towards a monetary donation to the Polo Lifeline Food Pantry. Join us in reading and give back to our community this summer!

Would you, your business, or your organization be interested in being a Community Partner? Call 815-946-2713 or email library@pololibrary.org for more information.

Wi-Fi Access Wi-Fi is still available outside of the library building by joining the Polo Public Library Guest Access network, you do not need a password.

Questions?

If you have any questions or comments, please let us know by calling 815-946-2713 or emailing library@pololibrary.org.

We sincerely hope that everyone stays healthy and safe during this time.

Mt. Morris and Byron library news on page 9.

In Loving Memory

BERTOLET LIBRARY Reopening on June 1 We are excited to announce that Bertolet Memorial Library in Leaf River will reopen on Monday, June 1!

We will resume our regular hours: Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. 7 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. 12 p.m.

We ask that all staff and patrons over the age of 2 years old wear a face covering when in the library.

If you are unable to wear a face covering, please call 815-738-2742 or visit prairiecat.info to place a hold for items; staff will contact you when your hold is ready for curbside pickup.

We are only able to fulfill holds and checkout items located within our library; there are no interlibrary loans available at this time.

All materials returned will be held for a 7 day quarantine before being checked in. These items will still show as checked out on your account during this time. There will be no late fees assessed for materials during the quarantine period.

There will be no in-person programming at Bertolet Memorial Library for the time being. We will re-evaluate this decision at the end of June.

Book donations are not being accepted at this time. We are accepting soft plastic donations.

Restrooms are available for public use and will be cleaned twice daily. Please maintain 6 feet distance within the library.

We can’t wait to see everybody again!

Megan (Swaziek) Wells 1984 – 2016

REMEMBERING YOU IS EASY - WE DO IT EVERY DAY MISSING YOU IS A HEARTACHE THAT NEVER GOES AWAY SM-ST1783157

MT. MORRIS LIBRARY

Virtual Story Time- Every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m.

Join Miss Kaitlyn for story time at home! Visit our facebook page every Wednesday. Can’t join live? No problem! We will be uploading the video for you to view at any time.

Signing up for Summer Reading Program - Registration Began May 26 This summer we will be using a program called READsquared. You can use both the website or the app found in most app stores. To register you or your child just follow the steps below.

If using the app: first download the app then enter your library as Mt. Morris Public Library, IL. Click register on the next prompt. If using a web browser: visit mtmorrisreads.

readsquared.com then click register at the top right corner of the page.

Once in the app or website you will be guided through registration. Your age will automatically place you in the right group.

Create a user name and password that is easy to remember and follow prompts. After you have registered feel free to explore the page!

There are places to log books, write reviews, see suggestions, view and complete missions, and even play games.

New missions will become available every Monday beginning June 1.

Games will unlock as certain goals are met. Feel free to contact us any time for help with READsquared.

Though the library plans to reopen for lending purposes we will not be having any in person activities this summer.

We are also working on how to include those that will not be able to use an internet based program. Keep your eyes open for more information as we work through this change.

Follow us on Facebook for more frequent updates and details about SRP.

Byron Public Library Closed Due to the shelter in place order issued by the state of Illinois, the Byron Public Library is completely closed until further notice.

Due dates have been extended by our library system so there is no need to worry about late fees!

If you need to contact the library you can send us a message through email, Facebook, or our website, or you can leave us a message at 815-234-5107.Practice social distancing and stay safe, everyone!

Curbside Delivery Starting June 1!

Starting on June 1, the Byron Library will be offering curbside delivery for library items and remote printing. Place your holds online at Byron.lib.il.us or call us at 815-234-5107.

Not sure what you want?

Call us for help! We will call or email you with a confirmation when your holds are ready to be picked up.

Call us when you arrive at the library, and we will bring your items out to you.

A receipt with your due dates will be included with your items.

If you need something printed for you, just email your documents and any instructions to the library, library@byron.lib.il.us.

See BYRON LIBRARY, Page 10

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• Friday, May 29, 2020

Summer Reading Program!

Summer Reading Program is upon

us! Unlike years past we will have no in person programs. Instead we will be using an online resource to track books, provide missions to complete at home, and track rewards.

We will have fun rewards for those who reach goals at the end of the summer. This will include Mary Cheatwood dressing up as either a Princess, a Clown, or a Dinosaur if we collectively can read 1,700 books!

The missions are fun activities to do at home or outdoors that will earn you badges. Badges will earn raffle tickets for prizes at the end of the summer.

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Get a Digital Card!

Big news! Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mt. Morris and Oregon Public Libraries are temporarily waiving non resident fees and offering that anyone living within the boundaries of the Oregon Unit School District can sign up for a temporary library card.

This special digital card will allow access to the library’s electronic resources for a limited time period which will be helpful in supporting students’ e-learning as well as meet other informational and recreational needs. This temporary card is valid until September 1st, 2020.

To apply for a free temporary card, please email Mt. Morris library at mmlib@mtmorris-il.org.

BYRON LIBRARY

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

10

SPECIAL EVENT

Church’s Clothes Closet to be open June 5-6

Chana Family Clothes Closet at Chana United Methodist Church will be open Friday, June 5 from 1 to 4 p.m. and on Saturday, June 6 from 9 a.m. to noon.

New clothes selections for spring and summer are available for the entire family. (infant through adults) There is a wide variety of styles and sizes with many current and new, never been worn clothing.

All of the clothing is offered at no cost, and everyone

is welcome.

Some restrictions and guidelines are requested: • No more than four individuals can be in the Clothes closet at any time.

• No individuals under 16 years of age are allowed in the Closet.

• Visitors must wear face masks.

• Safe gathering practices must be followed.

READING MATTERS

Don’t let young readers fall into “CO-VID slide” School is out for the summer. It has certainly been an unusual end of the school year with remote learning for everyone.

Because of these weeks of at-home learning, it will be even more important this summer to help our children and grandchildren include some reading in our summer schedules.

The importance of reading during the summer months has been studied extensively and results indicate that students who do not read in the summer lose skills, often falling below reading levels they achieved during the school year.

This is referred to as the summer slide. If your children had difficulty keeping up with athome-learning assignments and work, that likely adds eight weeks or so of less reading.

Some are calling it the CO-VID slide.

It can be compared to an athlete who for some reason sits out a season and/or the off-season training.

It takes time to get back to the same performance levels they had previously attained. It is never too late to get back to reading and prevent any more loss of skills.

• BYRON LIBRARY Continued from Page 9 Hoopla Book Club Looking to join a Book Club? We’ve got you covered. Join our virtual Hoopla Book Club on Wed, July 1 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Zoom.

Our July read will be “The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek” by Kim Michele Richardson. The story is about a woman who joins the Pack Horse Library Project in the 1930’s.

Set-in the Appalachian mountains, this blue-skinned, young woman bravely forges danger and loneliness as she delivers books to offer a respite from life to the poverty-stricken Appalachia people.

This book is available through Hoopla.

Join in the discussion either virtually or over the phone on July 1. Zoom Meeting ID 885 8182 2730; Password 017822 or

COMMENTARY Mary Gardner Reading Specialist

There are a few key ideas to consider. One is that time spent reading does matter. It would be best if it was a regular amount of time daily, but you could also work with your children or grandchildren to set a weekly goal.

Fifteen to 30 minutes a day would be enough to make a difference. More than that would be a bonus. This can certainly include time you read to them, no matter their age or grade in school.

A second idea is to consider a broad definition of the kinds of texts to read. Include all kinds of books, magazines, recipes, instructions or directions, or web-based reading on various Internet sites.

Books, of course, can be electronic versions

call in to 312-626-6799.

If you have any questions, please email bethm@byron.lib.il.us or call 815234-5107 and ask for Beth.

Online Storytimes The library may be closed, but that doesn’t mean story time has stopped!

Drop by the Byron Library Facebook page every week for virtual story time!

Join Miss Cathy at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays for Virtual Baby Boogies, or Miss Julie at 9:30 a.m. for Virtual Story Time. Virtual story times will run weekly through the end of May. No registration needed!

Parking Lot WiFi Don’t have reliable internet at home?

The Byron Library may be closed, but there is still WiFi available! Park along our south wall and look for the WiFi network names and passwords in the window. Available 24/7!

which may offer more appeal. Any reading done in every-day events can count. Think about the reading you do in a program you receive at a baseball game or a play.

Reading recipes and following written directions counts, too. You might keep a log of all the different kinds of reading your family does over the summer.

Also consider reading a wide variety of genres.

Your children might set a goal to read at least four or five different genres over the summer.

A public librarian can help you locate new kinds of books to try. (We will hope our libraries can reopen at some point.) You might have children keep a journal or a log and encourage them to write a response to each genre read trying to decide which genres they like and why.

Time spent reading plus reading all kinds and genres of texts (including digital and electronic versions) equals a recipe for summer reading that will prevent a summer reading slide.

Enjoy time this summer reading to and with your children and grandchildren!

Check out our eBooks!

The library may be closed, but you can still get library books without leaving home! Visit the Byron Library’s webpage to access our eBook resources – OMNI, eRead Illinois, Hoopla, and Biblioboard.

All you need is your smart device and your library card. Available 24/7!

Introducing Creativebug!

We now offer Creativebug to our library patrons! It is a go-to resource for high-quality, on-trend arts and crafts instructional videos. With your membership, you’ll enjoy award-winning instructional videos on drawing, painting, sewing, knitting, crochet, quilting, baking and more.

All classes are taught by experts, with new classes added daily. All you need is your library card to gain free access: https://www.creativebug.com/ lib/byronlib

Library Cards Don’t have a library card to access our digital services? No send us a selfie, a picture of your driver’s license, a picture of your utility bill, and your cellphone number, and we will email you your new library card number and PIN number.

Your actual card will be mailed out to you.

Local History Are you interested in local history?

The library has several resources to get you started in your search. Check out the library’s local history page at http:// byron.lib.il.us/services/local-history/.

Available 24/7!

Visit the Byron Library Facebook page to keep up to date on library news and virtual programs!

Be sure to also check out the Byron Library and Byron Library Teen Instagram pages!

COVID-19 & BUSINESS

Over 50 weddings were planned at the venue this year

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

Rebecca King and Colin DePrez planned to get married at White Pines Resort this fall before the business closed with plans to declare bankruptcy due to COVID-19 business restrictions impacting revenue. Photo supplied.

Part of the reason she and her fiancée, Colin DePrez, chose White Pines was its all-inclusive style with restaurant and cabins. Less planning had to be done. They also chose the resort initially due to its proximity for family and its scenery.

“I went to White Pines when I was a kid,” King, who grew up in Rock-

ford, said. “Our dream wedding was Colorado. We love beautiful scenery and that’s something we connected on. White Pines was ideal for that and our families.”

Before White Pines Resort made its decision to close for good. King and DePrez thought their date was safe with COVID-19 threatening

nor would they consider allowing open enrollment beyond the 60 days grace period.

In fact, the Trump administration is currently going before the Supreme Court in an attempt to end the Affordable Care Act entirely and end health coverage for millions of Americans.

Congressman Adam Kinzinger is also working to end Obamacare. Contact him and tell him that people need this health care coverage now more than ever.

other folks, but there is no way we can be prevented from remembering our fallen men and women on Memorial Day, 2020.

The little town of Polo, USA, celebrated this day with rain on its way and then heavy rain with so many citizens

PUBLIC VOICE Unemployed can apply for insurance Dear Editor: People who have lost their health insurance because they have lost their jobs can go to www.healthcare.gov and apply for Obamacare within 60 days of losing coverage because they have had a life changing event.

Some may be eligible for low cost subsidized coverage under the Affordable Care Act or receive Medicaid. It will probably be less costly than making COBRA payments.

Even though it is predicted that up to 27 million Americans may lose their health insurance due to being newly unemployed by the pandemic, the Trump administration has declined to advertise and inform people of this opportunity to obtain health insurance,

Julia Hammer

showing their strong devotion to our American Flag and our fallen men and women.

We truly represent God and Country and we will never forget.

Rita Jacks

Polo

An eye exam is a good idea, especially if things are starting to look a little fuzzy around the edges.

Polo

Memorial Day held in Polo To the Editor:

You can prevent us from church and Masses on Sunday, you can call us elderly at 65, you can insist we wear a mask and stay six feet away from

Let us know what’s happening in your hometown! Email: news@oglecountynews.com

Dr. Kurt K. Nelson Optometrist

629 N. Galena Avenue, Dixon, Illinois • 815-284-6866 Member of the American Optometric Association.

Therapeutic Licensed.

• Friday, May 29, 2020

Rebecca King was going down an aisle at Target when she learned of White Pines Resort’s plan to close and declare bankruptcy.

She sat down and cried in the aisle. She planned to have her wedding there on Sept. 26.

King and 50 other brides had to cancel weddings after Concessionaire Beth George made her decision last week due to COVID-19 business restriction impacts. George ran the resort for 31 years, hosting over 1,200 weddings.

“I was devastated,” King said.

“For couples, just because of the sentiment that went into it and the business. A lot of things run through your head. The anxiety of being done planning and just having to wait to say I do and then getting thrown back into planning.”

King has moved her wedding to a venue near the quad cities where she lives. She had to cut down on guests and re-plan most of it with just a four month window.

only summer weddings. After everything happened, they wanted to keep the same date due to the month being special to them and DePrez and many guests having limited schedule flexibility with careers in firefighting.

Having to schedule a new wedding did not harm the couple financially.

Their new arrangements are cheaper and they received a full refund from White Pines Resort. George has been raising money to pay back the brides and guests before she enters bankruptcy.

A GoFundMe page has raised nearly $19,000 to help with those efforts. The resort attempted to hold a gift shop sale to raise additional money, but it was shut down by the conservation police due to the business being nonessential.

The inventory from that sale will be sold at Starved Rock Lodge and Conference center when it reopens on May 29. George says she now has enough money to pay all the brides and guests what she owes.

King decided to attend the gift shop sale Monday before it was shut down, but never made it inside.

“I wanted a memory of our dream wedding that was supposed to be,” King said. “It’s the marriage that matters, not the wedding. But we had dreams of it. If other brides read this, stay positive. Think out of the box and go with the flow.”

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Couple forced to re-plan wedding after resort closes

11

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| CHURCH NEWS

12

ADELINE ZION EVANGELICAL CHURCH 9106 Cedar St. in Adeline Phone 815-541-4863

BAILEYVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH

303 W. Franklin St., Baileyville Pastor Gary Branam www.baileyvillebaptistchurch.org

BAILEYVILLE REFORMED CHURCH

400 W. Center St., Baileyville Pastor Bruce Otto 815-235-1201

BROOKVILLE & ELKHORN UNITED METHODIST CHURCHES

Brookville: 17725 W. Chamber St. in Brookville Elkorn: Corner of Wilson Mill & Brick Church Roads

CHANA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 606 Main St., Chana Pastor Matt Smith 815-732-7683 chanaumc@gmail.com

CHRIST OUR SAVIOR LUTHERAN CHURCH

2035 Ill. Rt. 26, Dixon 815-284-4554 Pastor David Andermann 815-632-6767

OPEN BIBLE

302 S. Franklin St., Polo Luke Schier, Pastor 815-946-2848 PoloOpenBible.org

CROSSROADS COMMUNITY CHURCH Polo Campus

EAST OREGON CHAPEL CHURCH OF GOD

107 N. Daysville Rd., Oregon Pastor John Guthrie 815-732-2960 or 815-732-6569

EBENEZER REFORMED CHURCH

FORRESTON REFORMED CHURCH

EMMANUEL EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH

FREEDOM LUTHERAN CHURCH, ELCA

2997 N. German Church Rd. Rev. Josiah Youngquist.

815-732-6313 www.ebenezerreformed.com

764 N. Stillman Road, Oregon (Payne’s Point) Pastor Andrew Kayes 815-732-2424

EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH OF MT. MORRIS 102 S. Seminary St., Mt. Morris Senior Pastor Bruce McKanna Associate Pastor Logan Murphy 815-734-4942 www.efcmm.org office@efcmm.org

FAITH DISCOVERY CHURCH 801 W. Oregon St., Polo Pastor Jeremy Heller 815-946-3588

501 Third Ave. Pastor Lyle Zumdahl 815-938-2424 lylezumdahl@gmail.com

Pastor Karyn Kost 815-661-6315 www.freedomlutheran.org.

GERMAN VALLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

FAITH EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH

402 Second Ave., Forreston Pastor Scott Ralston Church 815-938-3203

FAITH UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 702 E. Dixon St., Polo Pastor Brian LeBaron 815-946-3212 faithumcpolo

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

DISCIPLES UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (USA)

505 Hill St., Oregon Pastor David Snow 815-732-2642 www.fbcoregon.org

200 S. Fifth St., Oregon Rev. Karen Gerhard Conner 815-732-2894 www.fpcoregon.com

EAST JORDAN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 402 First Ave., Forreston Pastor Sung-Eun Kim 815-938-2380

860 W. Oregon Trail Rd. Pastor Michael Hoffman 815-732-6847

OREGON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC CHURCH

200 S. Fourth, Oregon Rev. Megan Smick 815-732-2994 oregonumc@outlook.com

PINE CREEK CHRISTIAN CHURCH 5076 S. Lowell Park Rd. Pastor Charlotte Hoppe 815-946-3949

POLO CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN

GRACE VALLEY CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH

PRAIRIE DELL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

8210 E. Edwardsville Rd., German Valley Pastor Eric Schlukebir 815-362-6601 6941 N. Mt. Morris Rd., Leaf River Pastor Billy Hardy 815-738-2205 leafriverbc@gmail.com

ST. WENDELIN CATHOLIC CHURCH 18 S. Linn St., Shannon Rev. Michael Bolger 815-864-2548

SAUK VALLEY SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH

SILVER CREEK REFORMED CHURCH

609 S. 10th St., Oregon Craig Arnold, Pastor 812-236-1213

ST. BRIDE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

LIGHTHOUSE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

ST. JAMES LUTHERAN CHURCH

10384 W. Coffman Rd., Forreston Pastor Mark Phillips Church: 815-938-2194 Pastor’s Cell: 760-550-4563

114 S. Fifth St., Oregon 815-732-2367

RIVERSTONE CHRISTIAN CHURCH

104 E. Rt. 72, Leaf River Pastor Sung-Eun Kim 815-345-3038

NORTH GROVE EVANGELICAL CHURCH

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH

16032 W. Coffman Rd., Shannon 815-864-2448

LEAF RIVER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

409 W. Brayton Rd, P.O. Box 2055 Mt. Morris, IL 61054 Pastor Ginny Haney Phone: 815-734-4573

213 N. Franklin Ave., Polo Father Joseph P. Naill 815-946-2535

416 Prospect St., Dixon John Lewis, Pastor 815-677-9199

1000 Ill. 64 West Oregon Rev. Eldred George 815-732-7211 www.saintbrides.org saint.bride.church@gmail.com

4938 S. Daysville Rd., Oregon Pastor Matt Smith

ST. MARY CHURCH 301 N. Fourth St., Oregon Father Joseph P. Naill Office Phone 815-732-7383 Office FAX 815-732-4742

Congress Ave. & Webster St. Pastor Leslie Lake PoloCob@risebroadband.net

MT. MORRIS CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN

102 N. Maple St., Mt. Morris Pastor Julie Bunt 815-734-4853 www.disciplesumc.org

OREGON CHURCH OF GOD

Church and Main Streets Pastor Don Plock

LEAF RIVER BAPTIST CHURCH

205 N. Jefferson Ave., Polo Pastor Chris Bradshaw 815-837-5255 polo@crossroadscn.com www.crossroadscn.com

22027 Polo Rd., Sterling Jim Miller, Pastor 815-626-0104

FORRESTON GROVE CHURCH

7246 N. Freeport Rd., Forreston Presbyterian Church in America Pastor Drew Jones 815-938-3605 www.forrestongrovechurch.com

6024 N. Columbine Rd., Forreston Rev. Karyn Kost 815-661-6315 pastorofstjames1850@gmail.com

ST. MARK’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

201 N. Division Ave., Polo Pastor Terrie Wilder 815-946-2919

326 S. Bunker Hill Rd. German Valley Pastor Grant Mulder 815-362-2129

TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 308 E. Brayton Mt. Morris Pastor Josh Ehrler 815-734-6354 trinitymmil@frontier.com www.trinitymmil.net

VAN BROCKLIN-FLORENCE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3582 Bolton Rd.., Freeport Pastor Dawn Barr 815-291-0601

WEST BRANCH CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN 4014 West Branch Rd., Forreston 815-938-2586

How to submit church news Changes in church listings and articles about special church services and events can be emailed to news@oglecountynews.com.

For more information call 815-732-6166 ext. 2591.

SHANNON • POLO • LAKE CARROLL

708 S. Division St., Polo • 946-2714

Byron • Oregon • Rochelle • Rockford Member Roscoe/Rockton • Stillman Valley FDIC

211 S. Division Ave., Rt. 26 Polo Member 946-2777 FDIC

Graduation Keepsake A

PUBLICATION

FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020

Celebrating the Class of 2020 ...

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| GRADUATION

14

Congratulations to the classes of 2020!

It’s been the kind of year no one could have predicted. Graduation ceremonies turned on their head by the coronavirus, schools scrambling to come up with alternatives – and through it all, students rolling with the pandemic punches, determined not to let a virus rob them of memories and milestones. The Class of 2020 truly will be one for the history books, and on behalf of the Oregon Republican Reporter and Shaw Media, we salute you!

Index Forreston High School .................................................................................. 19-20 Oregon High School........................................................................................16-18 Polo High School .................................................................................................. 15

An Oregon High School Senior Skyler Kelley smiles as she pokes her head out the window of a vehicle May 20 during the senior parade in Oregon. The Class of 2020 celebrated their graduation with a parade through Oregon. A route lined with spectators celebrated the milestone with the students at a socially safe distance.

Michael Krabbenhoeft/mkrabbenhoeft@saukvalley.com

Congratulations to Jakob Kindle and the other Polo 2020 High School Graduates

Banking away from home could never be easier.

Love, Nancy, Larry, Panjee and Tricia Plachno

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After high school, whether you're working, going to a junior college down the road or living on campus across the country, banking away from home could never be easier!

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15

Jace Coffey

Sadie Baumann

Dylan Collins

Alexander Davies

Audrey Hess

Jakob Kindle

Kayla Blum

Tyler Diehl

Gabriel Boothe

Megan Boren

Grace Gabaldon

Kaitlyn Marschang

Brody Glawe

Marta Martinez

Cole Brandenburg

Hayden Goldie

Tucker Mumford

Cynthia Calderon

Lucia Gonzalez

Ty Newcomer

Patrick Call

Tyler Greenfield

Trinity Olmedo

Adisyn Grobe

Scott Prerost

CONGRATULATIONS TO Caleb Scott

Ramsey Shroyer

Mya Simmons

Brittany Traeger

Chelsey Weems

Rebecca Wiegand

Emily Witmer

Patrick Wright

Kennedy Yingling

Nicole Zeigler

Congratulations to the

2020 Graduating Class!

PUBLIC AUCTION SERVICE Lyle and Sher yl Hopkins, Mgrs.

SM-ST1779667 779667

7074 West Penn Corner Rd., Polo 815-946-2660 • 800-848-9519

The Class of 2020 SHANNON • POLO • LAKE CARROLL

Shannon (815) 864-2111

Polo (815) 946-2777

Lake Carroll (815) 864-2125

www.fsbshannon-polo.com

• Friday, May 29, 2020

Amber Henson

Garrett Bittinger

GRADUATION | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Brandon Albano

Cristina Alfano

Jordan Anderson

Reagan Anderson

James Arnold

Nathaniel Artz

Kainalu Barcai

Hunter Barnhart

Amber Bennet

Vanessa Bergman

Jessica Berry

Riley Birnbaum

Zoe Blake

Kenneth Bower

Brayden Bradshaw

Hannah Buckler

Edwin Buttons

Megan Buttons

Noah Campos

Megan Corbin

Zachary Crandall

Kaitlyn Daub

Jacob Davis

Breanna DeHaan

Ryanne DeHaan

Kamryn Erozen

Jacob Christensen

Tanner Clayton

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Sam Flores-Minnis

Josey Fox

Lillian Garncarz

Charles Gatz

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Max Gracyalny

Holly Handschuh

Jesse Hatfield

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Laney McCormick

Samantha Merrill

Jacob Milliman

Gracie Mingus

Lauren Montavon

Garret Moser

Michael Myers

Lorena Nava-Moyotl

Cynthia Nyderek

Alexis Point

Zoe Prascak

Keshon Reed

Talon Richardson

Jessica Rowe

Eli Rufer

Britta Schneider

Gabrielle Scott

Case Sellers

Matthew Shere

Joshua Sitze

Jackson Skipworth

Alvaro Soler

Brady Stake

Grayson Stake

Alice Stenico

Reese Theisen

Nolan Thomas

Nadia Vander Kolk

Tyler Vegliando

Elizabeth Villarreal

Katelyn Weber

Jada Welenc

Trey Woosley

Lauren Thompson

Not pictured: Jessie Bennett, Desmond Bridgeman, Aleana Carter, Tyler Groseclose, Athan Gutierrez-Smith, Joshua Houpt, Jacob Mitchell, Payton Wohlford

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Derek DeVries

Kaitlin Gruhn

Kyla Benson

Shelby Dean

Megan Hagemann

Jakob Boomgarden

Allissa Diddens

Daniel Hanson

Ethan Brubaker

Olivia Dillavou

Brittni Hollis

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Ethan Mulder

Seth Nelson

Gabe Owens

Kolton Rudy

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Lane Lindquist

Cordell Thill

Andrew Marshall

Annie Timmer

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EDUCATION 2020

‘Students became creative, innovative and so did teachers’

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

TOP LEFT: Oregon School District Teacher Kimberly Radostits works with a student online via Zoom. Photo provided. TOP RIGHT: Norah Sosa, a first grader at Oregon Elementary School, gets some help from her mom, Elizabeth, as she uses her Chrome Book for e-learning at home. Photo by Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media “The work took different amounts of time for each student,” Mahoney said. “It depends on how they learn.

It was a lot more work for teachers.

If a teacher had five kids struggling, they don’t have time to have those meetings. We took attendance, even though it wasn’t required by the state. We tried to stay consistent.”

Mahoney said if he had to do e-learning again and had more time to prepare, he’d involve teachers more in the planning and survey students and families on what their needs are. Students with more needs would be assigned to a tutor-like staff member.

Some parents had to get acquainted with the e-learning programs to help their kids. Mahoney said they weren’t prepared for that and more support like FAQ videos could be done if needed again. Something to supplement in-person interaction

would be needed as well.

“We have to come up with something for kids’ social and emotional needs,” Mahoney said.

Oregon is still holding out hope that it can hold summer school, which is slated to start July 6, in person. Mahoney hopes the Governor’s phase four reopening plan will allow it.

“The state superintendent has told schools to plan on being virtual, but those students usually struggle with online learning,” Mahoney said.

Mahoney has a few scenarios in mind if the schools can’t do full in-person instruction in the fall.

One is a delayed in-person opening with virtual learning to start the semester. Another is a hybrid model with “A and B” days where half the students are at the school on a given day.

The third scenario involves an

opt-in opt-out style where families would make the decision on whether their children attend in person and those that don’t would learn online.

“None of these are ideal,” Mahoney said.

Mahoney announced to families of high school seniors Wednesday plans to do a drive-in graduation ceremony at the Blackhawk Center on June 19. The district has contacted an audio video company that will provide a camera, projector and big screen.

The students’ speeches will likely be pre recorded and efforts are being made to be protected from inclement weather, after rain impacted a similar graduation ceremony at Forreston High School this week.

Mahoney also said that eighth grade promotion has been canceled.

COVID-19 & RECREATION

Mt. Morris’ Let Freedom Ring falls to pandemic

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com Let Freedom Ring announced last week that it will be canceling the 4th of July Festival this year due to the COVID-19 outbreak with the community’s safety in mind.

“As a committee we had to weigh different factors and one was if our community would be able to support our event,” a press release said.

“We will still be trying to do little events throughout the rest of the

year. Check our Facebook page for updates.”

LFR is still planning on doing flocking and having a virtual run.

Call or text 815-275-3360 and tell them the name and address of the yard you want to flock. The welltrained flamingos will stay in your friend’s yard for 24 hours.

LFR will be holding a virtual run from June 1 until July 4. It is open to anyone, anywhere. Runners can run or walk the distance of their choice at their own pace. You will keep

track of your distance on an app.

Use your treadmill or get outside to hit the pavement. Awards will be sent out. More details will follow on the LFR Facebook page.

LFR will also be active with PorchFest, Straw Fest and the Mt. Morris Jamboree (Friday night concerts) depending on what happens with COVID-19.

“The LFR committee will be hard at work for the 2021 festival and hopes to see you there,” the press release said.

Let Freedom Ring has been cancelled due to the pandemic. This is a photo of one of the floats that was in the 2019 parade.

• Friday, May 29, 2020

Oregon school district students officially finished their semester on Wednesday, but Superintendent Tom Mahoney said he won’t know the impact of e-learning until he can get them back into the classroom.

The COVID-19 pandemic closing schools forced the district to conduct the final two months of its schooling online. New coursework ended a week early to give students a chance to finish incomplete work.

“We don’t have final data yet on incompletes,” Mahoney said. “There were parts that were really good for us. Students became creative and innovative and so did teachers. In some ways there were positives that came out of it. I’m so proud of our staff. Everyone worked to make it as easy as possible for parents.”

Mahoney said he “worries greatly” about the impact that e-learning had on students’ educational journeys. He has no idea what the effect was, but said the district’s current focus is determining that.

The change showed weaknesses in Oregon’s system, Mahoney said.

Some students and teachers didn’t have the necessary access to the internet. Some students were provided with paper learning materials and did better with that. Teachers were fielding questions from students from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m.

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Superintendent reflects on e-learning experience

21

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

22

COVID-19 & RECREATION

Ogle County Fair cancelled due to COVID-19 Board members delayed decision for several weeks

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com The Ogle County Fair Association’s three focuses are community, family and friends. In efforts to protect those things, it cancelled its annual fair for the first time in 167 years.

OCFA Publicist Christine Carter said the board decided unanimously on May 15, and delayed its decision by weeks in hopes the fair could still be held.

“It was a very sober discussion with pros and cons as far as managing health and safety,” Carter said.

“There would have been so many factors that we would have had to implement between now and the fair.”

Carter said the state phase of reopening that would allow the fair to happen would have “cut it close” on being in place by the time of the July 29 to Aug. 2 fair.

“Our focus has always been on the health and welfare of our communities, families and friends,” a Facebook statement from the OCFA said last week. “While we strive each year to put on the best and most affordable fair, the global impact of the COVID pandemic has created

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

TOP LEFT: Demolition derby cars battle in front of full grandstand during the 2019 Ogle County Fair. The demo derby is always a popular attraction at the fair. TOP RIGHT: A goat being shown by Kyra Rimstidt of the Hub Hickory Nuts 4-H Club bleats as it competes in the junior show at the 2019 Ogle County 4-H Fair. necessary action.”

Sanitizing the venue, increased social distancing, sanitation stations, temperature and health screening were factors considered.

The board said it was extremely saddened to have to make the decision. Health risks and added layers necessary for safety far outweighed the benefits of having the fair.

“We could have never expected this to happen but putting our fair goers at risk would never be worth it in the long run,” OCFA President Tom Simpson said. “Safety has to come first. We are all looking forward to next year and making it

the best fair Ogle County has ever seen.”

Reaction from the public to the decision has been mixed. Many have reached out with positive support of the decision, but others were disappointed.

“But we haven’t seen anger,” Carter said.

One event that will still be happening is the annual 4-H competition that usually takes place at the fair. But it won’t be in conjunction with the OCFA. The Ogle County 4-H will be planning it and managing it on its own.

Carter said she was unsure how it

will look.

The fair is held each year just west of Oregon. Mayor Ken Williams called the decision “sad and difficult.”

He’s unsure what the fair does for the city’s economy each year numbers wise, but that it does attract visitors from all over the area and helps hotels, restaurants and gas stations. He was hoping there was still a chance the fair could happen.

“It’s part of our community,” Williams said. “It’s going to be missed but next year it’ll be back and better than ever.”

COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Ogle County Courthouse, Annex offices reopening The offices of the County Clerk and Recorder, Treasurer, Supervisor of Assessments, Animal Control, County Board Chairperson, County Board Vice-Chairperson, Planning and Zoning and Solid Waste will reopen to the public on Monday, June 1.

While COVID-19 is still a public health concern; these offices will be following the guidelines from the CDC and Ogle County Health Department. Before entering the building, a mask will be required and social distancing procedures will be required and in place.

In an effort to be proactive and to better protect the public and county employees these departments

may have operational changes with restrictions and limitations due to COVID-19 that the public will need to follow.

Please reach out to each individual office for further clarification.

Animal Control – 815-732-1185 County Clerk – 815-732-1110 County Recorder – 815-732-1115 County Treasurer – 815-732-1100 Planning and Zoning – 815-732-1190 Solid Waste – 815-732-4020 Supervisor of Assessments – 815-732-1150 County Board Chairperson & Vice-Chairperson – 815-732-1111

Bessie E. “Bess” Brantner, 82, died suddenly on May 21, 2020, at Crystal River, Florida.

She was born Feb. 24, 1938, in Big Piney, Missouri the daughter of Leslie and Martha Anna (Robbins) Lee. Bess graduated from Sauk Valley College.

She married Stevan C. Brantner at St. Bride’s Episcopal Church in Oregon.

Bess was a retired captain from the Ogle County Sheriff’s Department where

BRIAN H. ELY

Her infectious smile and quick wit endeared her to everyone she met. She had a kind heart and was a warm and giving individual.

She was predeceased by her parents Leslie and Anna Lee, three brothers; Robert Lee, Russell Lee, and Ray Lee; two sisters; Maxine Dougan and Pauline Zeigler.

Bess is survived by her husband Stevan Brantner of Byron, daughter Jan

(Jazz) Jaser of Inverness, Florida, son Brad (Dena) Teasdale of Spring Hill, Kansas, brother Harvey (Ruth) Lee of Drexel, Missouri, and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held with the Rev. Eldred George pastor of the St. Bride’s Episcopal Church of Oregon, officiating at the Byron Cemetery in Byron.

Due to the covid-19 pandemic no visitation will be held.

Visit www.farrellhollandgale.com to send an online condolence.

two sisters, Melanie (Tom) Boudreau and Lorene (Stan) Foglesong of Toulon.

He was preceded in death by his mother, MaryAnn Ely; and his son, Bradon Ely. Brian attended West Jersey Grade School, Toulon High School class of 1974, and in 1978 graduated from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana with a degree in Ag Econ.

He farmed with his father for 40 years along with full time crop adjusting for 13 of those years. As a young farmer, he was an Illinois County Fair Ag Inspector, sold Archer Oil and Great Lakes Seed Corn. He loved his family, vegetable

garden, livestock, attending his children’s many school/ sporting events, family fun at Oak Run, family genealogy, Wheel of Fortune, and Fox News.

Brian was an 8-gallon blood donor. He was a numbers guy, loved working with finances and could quickly recite dates of significance. He was also involved with many community groups: Soil and Water board, Pork Producers, Elmira Mutual Board for 17 years and President for the last 3 years.

He was West Jersey Township Clerk for over 20 years, Township Assessor, and on the West Jersey Cemetery Board.

He attended Toulon United Methodist Church, Riverside Community Church Peoria, and a founder of The Gathering Church in 2017. He also was involved in numerous ministries and bible studies through the years.

A vehicle visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 29 at Haskell Funeral & Cremation Services in Wyoming at 101 S. Galena Ave. A funeral service will be on Saturday, May 30. Pastor John King will officiate. Burial will be in West Jersey Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Bradon Ely Scholarship or The Gathering Church.

Condolences may be left at www.haskellfuneral.com.

Ogle County Jail and held in lieu of bond.

Carey was also issued a citation for no valid insurance. Carrey was issued an I-bond with a return court date.

the influence of alcohol. Deputies were assisted at the scene by Byron and Leaf River EMS. The accident remains under investigation.

OGLE COUNTY SHERIFF Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle reports the following activity May 20 Devin Bailey, 36, of Polo, was arrested at 6:45 p.m. for driving while under the influence of alcohol and no valid driver’s license after a traffic stop at Washington Street and River Road. Bailey was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was later released on an individual bond.

May 23 Rueben Dario Reyes-Allanco, 34, of Carpentersville was arrested at 7:54 p.m. for driving while under the influence, no valid driver’s license, no vehicle insurance and illegal transportation of open alcohol after deputies observed a tan van disobey the stop sign at Illinois 251 and Illinois 72. He was taken to the

May 24 Christopher Rozakis, 35, of Stillman Valley was arrested at 8 p.m. for driving while under the influence of drugs, leaving the scene of an accident and use of unsafe tires after deputies received a call of a hit and run at the intersection of Pershing and Rural Streets in the Village of Stillman Valley.

A short time after the call, Rozakis was located. He was released on an I-Bond at the Rochelle Hospital with a later court date in Oregon.

Joshua Carey, 32, of Rochelle was arrested at 2:40 p.m. for driving while license suspended after deputies conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 39 at mile marker 103 1/2 northbound.

May 25 At approximately 5:51 p.m. deputies responded to the intersection of Montague Road and Pecatonica Road for a single vehicle motorcycle accident. An investigation revealed a motorcycle driven by Terry Brannon, 53, of Leaf River, was traveling eastbound on Montague Road when it failed to negotiate the ramp onto Pecatonica Road.

The motorcycle entered the median where it overturned multiple times.

Brannon received serious injuries and was flown from the scene by REACT Helicopter.

Pursuant to an investigation Brannon was charged with driving while under

Christian Elliott, 25, of Malta was arrested at 4:21 p.m. for driving while license suspended after deputies initiated a traffic stop at Holcomb Road and Lindenwood Road. Elliott was released on an I-Bond and will appear in court on Aug. 19 at 9 a.m.

Shantori Bell, 36, of Clinton, Iowa, was arrested at 4:54 p.m. for driving while license revoked after deputies initiated a traffic stop on Interstate 88 at mile marker 79 eastbound. Bell was transported to the Ogle County Jail where she was held in lieu of bond.

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• Friday, May 29, 2020

Brian H. Ely, 63, of Toulon, went to be with his Lord Jesus Saturday, May 23, 2020 at 8:35 a.m. at UnityPoint Methodist in Peoria.

Brian was born on Oct. 18, 1956 in Kewanee, the son of Harold and MaryAnn Ely. He married Marilyn Folkers on Sept. 21, 1980. She survives.

Also surviving are two sons, Jarod and Tenneille Ely, and Ethan Ely, both of Toulon; one daughter, Jenna and Matthew Bennett of Houston, Texas; his five grandchildren, Hunter, Jonathan, Lydia, Ariella, and Esma; his father, Harold and Barb of Toulon; parents-in-law, Harold and Joyce Folkers of Polo; and

she had worked for 29 years.

She was a lifelong member of the St. Bride’s Episcopal Church in Oregon.

Bess loved to travel and enjoyed telling of her worldly exploits visiting her children when they lived overseas.

She was an avid garagesaler and loved a good bargain. She enjoyed bingo and watching reality television.

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

OBITUARIES BESSIE E. “BESS” BRANTNER

Senior Parade

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

24

Michael Krabbenhoeft/Shaw Media

TOP LEFT: Jacob Davis waves to spectators as the senior parade passes by the Nash Recreation Center in Oregon. TOP RIGHT: Megan Buttens rides in the back of a truck. A parade route lined with spectators celebrated the achievement at a socially safe distance while getting to see the graduates during the May 20 event.

PROPERTY TRANSFERS Ogle County property transfers recorded week of May 15-20.

Warranty Deeds • Cynthia A. Gesin and Sandra L. and Danny Hoffman to Judi and Daniel A. Hoffman and Brandi Hoffman, 710 N. Walnut Ave., Forreston and one parcel in Forreston, $50,000.

• Mary A. Tabor to Belly Garkey, 381 Red Fox Drive, Davis Junction, $218,000.

• Brian J. and Terri L. Kasmar to Fredy N. Varela Flores and Lara Samanta C. Gonzales, 219 Windover Park Drive, Hillcrest.

• David A. and Charissa L. Springer to Harry M. and Lacey B. Gabrielson, 1503 Knights Lane, Rochelle, $234,000.

• Haywell LLC Westwood to Jason C. Popp and Sara E. Schulfer-Popp, one parcel in Flagg Township, $166,602.

• Bradley A. Dyer and Shannon L. Satti to Haywell LLC Westwood, three parcels in Flagg Township, $0.

• Jason C. Popp to Haywell LLC Westwood, 121 Windward Lane, Rochelle, $185,000.

• Gary and Gerald Berg to Felix Juan

Alvarez and Chalise M. Contreras, 422 W. Cederholm St., Creston, $143,900.

• Timothy J. Pyatt to Jeremy and Rebecca Keesee, 1421 N. Kingsway Ct., Byron, $137,000.

• Matthew V. Abate and Leslie A. Kirk-Abate to Antonio Jamal Richardson and Jasmine Breann Richardson, 847 N. Fieldcrest Drive, Byron, $143,900.

• Jeremy G. and Rebecca R. Keesee to Cassidy and Jacob Mrozek, 907 N. Kingsway Lane, Byron, $213,000.

• Glenn M. and Bonnie A. Becker to Matthew V. Abate and Leslie A. KirkAbate, 9002 N. Barker Road, Byron, $265,000.

• Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. to Anthony C. and Emily J. Hardin, 605 W. Mason St., Polo, $45,000.

• Michael P. and Joni L. O’Hare to Shawn D. and Mary E. Schmitz, 647 N. Allison Circle, Byron, $212,500.

• Kimberlly L. Fite to Judd Gastel, 417 N. Union St., Byron, $65,000.

• Jacob and Kaitlyn Rippentrop to Damien James Shearer and Logan Lee Skeel, 6775 S. Sarah Ave., Rochelle, $124,000.

• Joan Klein to Christopher and Connie Glowacki, two parcels at 326 E. Second St. and one at East Second Street, all in Byron, $250,000.

Quit Claim Deeds • Brix M. Byers to Brix M. and Emily A. Byers, 1346 Marijon Drive, Byron, $0.

• Shawn M. Seaton to Shawn M. and Vicki Alletto Seaton, 370 Redtail Drive, Davis Junction, $0.

• Dayton Superior Corp. to City of Oregon, three parcels in Oregon-Nashua Township, $175,000.

• Harlan, Garrett and Brooke Garcia Nettz to Harlan Nettz, 303 N. Franklin Ave., 108 E. Mason St., and 408 S. Division Ave., all in Polo, $0.

Trustee’s Deeds • Carol A. Wander Declaration of Trust, Kristopher T. Wander, trustee, to Richard King, 3053 S. Chamberlain Road, Rochelle, $315,000.

• Millennium Trust Co. LLC, custodian, and Paul A. Knepper IRA to Paul A. Knepper, MD and Ph.D, 6897 S. Riverside Drive, Dixon, and one parcel in Grand Detour Township, $0.

• L. Dwayne Query to Bobby Jo Leon, 1085 N. Main St., Rochelle, $122,000.

• Charlotte W. Berg Trust 1010, Charlotte W. Berg, trustee, to Gerald and Gary O. Berg, 422 W. Cederholm St., Creston, $125,000.

Transfer on Death Instruments • Ellsworth L. and Beryl Terviel to Scott A., Steve, and Kathleen S. Terviel and Mary Ann Ankney, 5618 N. Armour Road, Stillman Valley, $0.

• Dawn Renee Furman to Kyle James and Brittany Furman, 1198 Clifton Terrace, Rochelle, $0.

Administrator’s Deed • The late Daniel E. Marth, by administrator, to Mark E. Grobe, 508 N. Adams Ave., Polo, $15,000.

Deeds • Trust 20008277010, Ogle County, trustee, to William and Judith Plum, 413 Birch Lane, DIxon, $0.

Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office

CLASS OF 2020 HONORED

Here are the volunteers who worked on May 24 putting up signs for the Class of 2020 on the lawn of Trinity Lutheran Church in Mt. Morris. Pictured, left to right, are Pastor Josh Ehrler, Sandra Stengel (kneeling), Mary Jo Dilbeck, Kendra Ehrler, Joshua Keene, Kelly Handschuh, Carolyn Dilbeck, and Dan Dilbeck. Melissa Nicholson, who also helped and coordinated the event, took the photo. the effort was coordinated by Ehrler and Melissa Nicholson, Trinity’s Christian Education Director.

Using social media, Trinity Lutheran Church encouraged people across Mt Morris to put signs or balloons on their lawns and in their windows to celebrate area graduates.

“We cannot pretend to imagine the frustration our graduates might be feeling,” Ehrler said. “Commence-

ment is the day of the school year when students are recognized for what they have accomplished, they can share a sense of completion, and be encouraged by the entire community as they take their next steps in life. We simply wanted to let all of our graduates know that we are praying for them and are proud of everything they’ve achieved.”

Though early weather reports had promised rain, the clouds stayed

away for most of Sunday.

“The volunteers noted that they would return throughout the week to remove signs that do not survive the elements, expecting to keep the sturdier markers up for at least another week,” Ehrler said. “People are encouraged to drive by or stop along East Brayton Road and walk around the property to enjoy the signs.”

student of Northern Illinois University were awarded scholarships.

ICPAS awarded $84,000 in scholarships to 43 accounting students as part of its Accounting Scholarship Program, which supports accounting students at Illinois colleges and universities who demonstrate strong academic perfor-

mance, leadership qualities, and financial need.

“It’s an honor to be able to help such an impressive group of students, who are determined to succeed as future leaders in the accounting profession, overcome their financial barriers and achieve their academic and career

goals,” said Todd Shapiro, ICPAS president and CEO. The CPA Endowment Fund of Illinois is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization founded in 1998 by Illinois CPA Society members. The Fund was created to ensure ongoing funding for scholarship and outreach programs.

COLLEGE NEWS Society scholarship recipients Two Ogle County residents are among 43 accounting students to earn a scholarship from the Illinois CPA Society (ICPAS).

Daniel Harrington, of Byron, and a student at Northern Illinois University and Maria Tranchina, of Oregon, and a

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• Friday, May 29, 2020

On Sunday, May 24, when Oregon High School graduates should have been donning their caps and gowns and gathering for commencement ceremonies, a small group of workers were throwing a sign party in their honor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Mt. Morris.

Trinity had put out a call for signs celebrating area graduates with a promise to install any sign they received on their front lawn along East Brayton Road.

“The goal was simple, to let those completing high school, college, nursing school, or training know that their achievements were praiseworthy, and they were not forgotten, even if the formal ceremonies needed to be postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic,” said Pastor Josh Ehrler.

Volunteers arrived at Trinity at 1 p.m. on Sunday and began staking, stapling, and tying down cardboard, plywood, handmade and print shop quality signs across their property.

Observing all appropriate social distancing protocols, they wore their masks and stayed apart from each other while completing their tasks.

“Neighbors drove by and waved, and a few stopped to ask about the project and to take pictures,” Ehrler said.

Calling it #CongrattheGrads2020,

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Mt. Morris congregation celebrates graduates

25

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

26

COVID-19 & BUSINESS

Reign XT gym in Oregon to defy executive order ‘We’re confident that there won’t be repercussions’

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com Matt Bouback believes he has to open Reign XT’s doors for the gym to continue to exist.

And that’s what he’ll do on June 1, in defiance of the Governor’s executive stay-at-home order currently keeping gyms limited to one-on-one training and outdoor sessions of no more than 10 people.

The Oregon gym plans to do a full reopening on June 1 with COVID-19 preventative measures like masks, temperature-taking and moving all machines six feet apart. Bikes have been taken out of the spin room. A fraction of Reign XT’s max capacity will be allowed in.

“It’s time,” Bouback, Reign XT’s owner, said. “It’s time to open doors and give people the opportunity to get back on track. We spend a lot of time with clients. Enough is enough for us.”

Reign XT opened in January after Bouback spent $150,000 to remodel

Michael Krabbenhoeft/Shaw Media

Reign XT in downtown Oregon sits quiet and empty during the coronavirus pandemic. and outfit it to his specifications.

He says he’s lost about $50,000 due to closing during the pandemic. He doesn’t qualify for federal and state aid programs due to not being open long enough.

“Between the loss of revenue and bills, we have fixed costs,” Bouback said. “You can only absorb so much without income.”

Bouback believes he has a responsibility to the community to provide services that promote healthy living.

He believes the stay-at-home

order has been “detrimental” to people’s health and has compromised immune systems and fostered bad eating and drinking habits and anxiety issues. After talking with clients, Bouback thinks people aren’t doing the right things on their own without a gym.

Bouback has talked with local and county officials about his plans.

There’s been no pushback. In fact, he said it’s been “quite the opposite.”

“We’re confident that there won’t be repercussions,” Bouback said.

“Taking that risk is fine with me.

I couldn’t fault them for taking action. It infringes on our constitutional rights. They’re doing this for places like Menards and restaurants and I feel we can do the same.”

Bouback thinks all businesses should be open, especially the smaller ones. Reign XT may not contribute to sales tax the way grocery stores do, but they should be trusted to implement policies, he said.

The Reign XT owner has also spoken with attorneys and his insurance provider regarding issues of reopening, including the possibility of a client contracting COVID19 while there. He’s confident that there will be no issues with reopening.

Bouback isn’t sure if he’d shut down if a client tested positive for COVID-19. He called that question “hard to answer.”

Reign XT reached out to its members last week and received “zero” negative feedback on its plan to reopen. He said his clients know the risks of coming in and will do it by choice.

Opening June 1 may not be Bouback’s last act of defiance.

“I’m not sure if we’d comply if law enforcement or the health department asked us to close.”

Mobile Pantry in Mt. Morris

Michael Krabbenhoeft/Shaw Media

LEFT: Paul Shamoon, a member of the Global Mustard Seed Project, carries boxes of produce to a waiting vehicle May 20 during a mobile food bank event outside the Church of the Brethren in Mt. Morris. TOP: A volunteer loads a box of food into a trailer behind a resident’s lawn tractor. The mobile food bank was provided by the Northern Illinois Food Bank and Loaves and Fish Food Pantry in Mt. Morris.

COVID 19 & BUSINESS

Record attendance for multiple day event, owner says

BY RACHEL RODGERS Shaw Media

Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com

ABOVE: Cars, motorcycles and RV’s all made the trip to celebrate Memorial Day at Poopy’s in Savanna. The restaurant owner opened several days early against the governor’s shelter in place rule. BELOW: Dave Smith of Oregon gives the thumbs up while showcasing his rat rod at the car show. going against the governor’s order.

A group called the Concerned Citizens of Carroll County urged the Carroll County Board and municipal governments in each city or village within the county to ease or remove restrictions set by the governor’s order and reopen ahead of time.

The group consists of more than 230 residents and business owners from Chadwick, Lanark, Milledgeville, Mount Carroll, Savanna, Shannon and Thomson.

Last week, the County Board answered the group’s call and unanimously approved a resolution recommending that the state allow Carroll County to open.

“I will say that with this resolution we are adding our voice to other counties and municipalities around the state wanting to reopen,” board Chairman Kevin Reibel said.

Lanark attorney Kipp Meyers, spokesperson for the CCCC, told the board that businesses should be able to decide how they reopen, instead of being restricted by guidelines from the CDC or the Illinois Department of Public Health.

“The reason we’re doing this is that while some things are going to change on May 29, it still does not do enough to take the boot of the state and these

overzealous regulations off the backs and the throats of our local businesses,” Meyers said. “We think it is important that these regulations that just are too much and do not fit the businesses here in Carroll County need to go.”

Craig Beintema, administrator for the Carroll County Health Department, told the board that the resolution should be amended to include specific safety measures such as social distancing and limiting gatherings, but the resolution was approved without any amendment.

“It’s not about suppressing any business or anything like that. I have nothing to do with the governor and how they actually implement these executive orders and rules; what I’m recommending is having something defined with the safety measures,” Beintema said. “Allowing each individual business to do whatever they

want may not be the best for uniformity throughout the county.”

Carroll County Sheriff Ryan Kloepping said it’s not up to them to enforce the guidelines.

“We are at this point, suggesting people comply with the guidelines.

We are not enforcing them,” he said.

“We are not taking people to jail for not following guidelines. We are suggesting that they follow the guidelines and cooperate. If they choose not to, there are law enforcement agencies above us that may choose to step in and enforce at their level.”

Savanna Mayor Chris Lain said they shouldn’t be held to the same rules as Chicago, and businesses are struggling greatly from the restrictions. They’re also losing business to their neighbors in Iowa, which mostly reopened earlier this month.

“I have been vocal that I believe we need to be opening by county with realistic restrictions and that reviewing every 28 days is not realistic,” Lain said on Facebook. “It is not a black and white issue I know and there has to be a balance of safety for all residents and protecting small businesses.”

Tony Carton contributed to the article.

• Friday, May 29, 2020

SAVANNA – Poopy’s Pub & Grub saw a record attendance for its annual Memorial Day weekend bash, as hundreds of people showed up in violation of the governor’s stay-at-home order.

The restaurant and bar, which draws motorcyclists from throughout the region, does the bulk of its business during the riding season, and owner Kevin Promenschenkel said he couldn’t afford to miss one of the biggest weekends of the year.

“If I miss Memorial Day weekend, that’s a big hit in the pocket book,” he said on Monday.

The bar and restaurant is having an “unbelievable turnout” and it will likely be a record-setting weekend, he said.

“It’s incredible to see these people come out to support us.”

People are having a great time and celebrating their rights, he said.

“They’re treating me like a hero, but I’m not; I’m just a guy trying to save his business.” he said.

Promenschenkel said he’s spoken to local law enforcement and the Carroll County Health Department about the weekend, and “everyone’s fine with it.” He also said patrons are being extremely generous, tipping staff double to triple the normal amount.

Poopy’s is suing Gov. JB Pritzker, saying he lacks the statutory authority to issue executive orders putting restrictions on businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, and therefore a cease-and-desist order issued to the biker bar as a result of such an order should be voided.

The business opened for curbside delivery May 1, and was issued the cease-and-desist order about two weeks ago by the Illinois Liquor Control Commission for allowing patrons to eat and drink beverages, including beer, “on premises” outdoors on tables spaced 10 feet apart.

Poopy’s continued to operate and had moved the tables off premises – to a wooded site behind the building that also belongs to Promenschenkel, but has a different address than the bar. It is up a hill accessible by a gravel road.

The 3-day party continued on Monday with live music and a car and motorcycle show.

Promenschenkel isn’t the only one

OGLE COUNTY NEWS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

Poopy’s defies order with Memorial weekend bash

27

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| OGLE COUNTY NEWS

28

SEVERE WEATHER

Tornadoes touch down near Coleta and Chana Machine shed and barn are destroyed during May 23 storm

BY CODY CUTTER Shaw Media The National Weather Service indicated five tornadoes in the area on Saturday, May 23 two of which were confirmed to touch ground.

Radar reports spotted formations between Coleta and Milledgeville in northern Whiteside County, where a touchdown was confirmed by the NWS office in the Quad Cities. The others were southwest of Polo in Ogle County, and near Thomas in northwestern Bureau County.

The Ogle County Sheriff Department reported a touchdown of around 4:30 p.m. near the intersection of Chana and Husking Peg roads north of Flagg Road near Chana.

The system headed northeast.

Sheriff departments in Whiteside, Lee, Ogle and Carroll counties reported no major storm-related damage, but a machine shed at 5243 E. Canfield Road in Chana was destroyed, sending siding and other debris blowing, and downing power lines. The mess forced the closure of the road.

Systems near Coleta and Thomas were detected around 2:15 p.m.

The one in Coleta moved northeast toward southeast Carroll Coun-

RG Hough of Mt. Morris took this photo of a funnel cloud southwest of Mt. Morris on Saturday afternoon. ty and into southwestern Ogle County, and the one near Thomas moved northeast into southeast Whiteside County near Deer Grove.

The system near Polo was detected at around 1 p.m. and also moved northeast.

Tornado warnings last about an hour since the last indicated radar reading of a formation; the range

of the warning typically is a cone shape that fans from the detection location.

On Tuesday, the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office posted on its Facebook page that the National Weather Service had determined an EF-1 tornado with 90-100 mph winds and an approximate width of 100 yards caused damage near the intersec-

tion of Canfield Road and Rocky Hollow Road.

“Trained weather spotters observed several funnel clouds and the tornado mentioned above resulting in siren activation without weather warnings. We would like to thank these volunteers for helping to keep our residents safe.” the post said.

LEFT: A large machine shed at the 5243 E. Canfield Road Chana, was heavily damaged following an earlier storm closing the Canfield Road. Photos by Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media. TOP: An old barn at the Canfield Farm, on Canfield Road, was destroyed. A piece of wood from the barn was driven into this nearby field. Photos supplied

A1

−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− Salesperson: ASHLEIGH GOODP 29 Acct #: 10126402 Judgment mentioned or so much thereof as may be necessary to realize the amount due to satisfy said Judgment with the terms and conditions as set forth herein: The name, address and telephone number of the person to contact for information regarding the real LEGAL Nis:OTICES 101 estate

of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after LEGAL NOTICESof 101 confirmation the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property.

Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment, to wit:

tenants thereunto belonging and will not be available for inspection prior to sale.

LEGAL NOTICES

101

STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 15th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE HOLCOMB STATE BANK NKA HOLCOMB BANK, Plaintiff, vs.

Case No. 2019 CH 72 KEVIN M. CHIDLEY, LISA K. CHIDLEY,

PUBLIC NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE Public Notice is hereby given that in pursuant of the Decree entered in said Court in the above-entitled cause on the 27th day of December, 2019, I, Brian Van Vickle, Sheriff of Ogle County, or such other Deputy as may be sitting in my stead, will on July 10, 2020 at the hour of 10:00 a.m. in the Ogle County Sheriff?s Office, Administration Building, 202 South First Street, Oregon, Illinois, sell at public venue to the highest and best bidder for cash the following described lands and premises situated in Ogle County, Illinois in said Judgment mentioned or so much thereof as may be necessary to realize the amount due to satisfy said Judgment with the terms and conditions as set forth herein: The name, address and telephone number of the person to contact for information regarding the real estate is: JAMES E. STEVENS Barrick Switzer

Barrick Switzer Long Balsley & Van Evera, LLP 6833 Stalter Drive Rockford, Illinois 61108 (815) 962-6611 A. The common address of said property is: 1212 North 14th Street, Rochelle, IL 61068 (PIN 24-14-483005) and legally described as:Lot 65 of Sunset Fields No. 6, being a part of the East Half of the Southeast Quarter of Section 14, Township 40 North, Range 1 East of the Third Principal Meridian, according to the Plat thereof recorded May 17, 1989 in Plat A Page 79 as Document No. 564252, in the Office of the County Recorder of Ogle County, Illinois; situated in the Township of Flagg, County of Ogle and State of Illinois.

B. A description of the improvements on the real estate is: single family residence The terms of the sale are: 25% down to the highest bidder by certified funds at the close of the auction; the balance, in certified funds, is due within twentyfour (24) hours.

The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to the quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no

If the property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g) (1) and (g)(4).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER) YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701 (C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW, UNLESS, THE PROPERTY HAS BEEN JUDICIALLY FOUND TO BE ABANDONED. The judgment amount was $220,693.02.

Prospective purchasers are admonished to check the court file to verify this information. /s/ Brian E. VanVickle Sheriff of Ogle CountyJAMES E. STEVENS (3128256) Barrick Switzer Long Balsley & Van Evera, LLP 6833 Stalter Drive Rockford, IL 61108 815-962-6611 jstevens@bslbv.com Y:\JES\HOLCOMB BANK\Chidley, Kevin\Foreclosure\ Sheriff's Notice of Public Sale.

Foreclosure\ Sheriff's Notice of Public Sale May 22, 29, June 5, 2020

101

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE, STATE OF ILLINOIS WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY IN ITS CAPACITY OWNER AS OF TRUSTEE MATAWIN VENTURES TRUST SERIES 2017-1, Plaintiff(s), vs.

MATTHEW JUSTICE, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendant(s).

Case No. 19 CH 55 NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment heretofore entered by the said Court in the above entitled cause, the Sheriff of Ogle County, Illinois, will on June 26, 2020, at the hour of 10:00 AM, at the OGLE PUBLIC SAFETY COMPLEX, 202 S 1ST STREET, OREGON, IL 61061, sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, all and singular, the following described premises and real estate in the said Judgment mentioned, situated in the County of Ogle, State of Illinois, or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment, to wit: LOT TWELVE (12) AS DESIGNATED UPON THE PLAT OF CHILDERS ACRES NO. 3, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER (1/4) OF SECTION 28, IN TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 1 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, THE PLAT OF WHICH

Common Address: 7108 S. WEST ST., ROCHELLE, IL 61068 P.I.N. 24-28-101007-0000 Contact the Law Office of IRA T. NEVEL, LLC, 175 North Franklin, Suite 201, Chicago, Illinois 60606, (312) 357-1125, for further information.

The terms of the sale are: Ten percent (10%) due by cash or certified funds at the time of the sale and balance is due within 24 hours of the sale. The subject property is subject to real estate taxes, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "as is" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the Court.

The property is improved by a Single Family Residence, together with all buildings and improvements thereon, and the tenements, hereditaments and appurtenants thereunto belonging and will not be available for inspection prior to sale.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g) (1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit

LAW OFFICES OF IRA T. NEVEL, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff Ira T. Nevel ARDC #6185808 Timothy R. Yueill ARDC #6192172 Greg Elsnic ARDC #6242847 Aaron Nevel ARDC #6322724 Joseph Baldwin ARDC #6323598 Danielle Alvarez ARDC #6325510 175 North Franklin St. Suite 201 Chicago, Illinois 60606 (312) 357-1125 Pleadings@ nevellaw.com SL # 19-03035 May 22, 29 & June 5, 2020

Need to place an ad?

Call us 625-3600 284-2222

LEGAL NOTICES

101

LEGAL NOTICES

101

LEGAL NOTICES

101

TAKE NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 2016-00110

TAKE NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 2016-00006

TAKE NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 2016-00106

TO: Timothy A. Chapman Spouse of Timothy Chapman Spouse of Timothy Chapman Occupant First State Bank Lincoln State Bank

TO: Timothy A. Chapman Spouse of Timothy Chapman Timothy Chapman Spouse of Timothy Chapman Occupant Tracey Oliver First State Bank Lincoln State Bank

TO: Norman R. Kilker Occupant Norman R. Kilker Spouse of Norman Kilker

Persons in occupancy or actual possession of said property; Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots.

A Petition for Tax Deed on premise described below has been filed with the Circuit Clerk of OGLE County, Ill as Case No. 2017TX17 The Property is located at: 112 S. 2nd Ave., Forreston, IL Property Index Number: 02-33128-011 Said Property was sold on 11/2/2017 for Delinquent Real Estate Taxes and/or Special Assessments for the year 2016.

The period of redemption will expire on 9/21/2020.

On 10/15/20 at 09:00 am the Petitioner will make application to such Court in said County for an Order for Issuance of a Tax Deed.

Realtax Developers, Ltd, Petitioner May 29, June 5 & 12, 2020

Persons in occupancy or actual possession of said property; Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots.

A Petition for Tax Deed on premise described below has been filed with the Circuit Clerk of OGLE County, Ill. Case No. as 2017TX17 The Property is located at: 104 E. Fulton St., Polo, IL Property Index 14-09Number: 455-007 Said Property was sold on 11/2/2017 for Delinquent Real Taxes Estate and/or Special Assessments for the year 2016.

The period of redemption will expire on 9/21/2020.

On 10/15/20 at 09:00 am the Petitioner will make application to such in said Court County for an Order for Issuance of a Tax Deed.

Realtax Developers, Ltd, Petitioner 10716-906737 May 29, June 5th & 12th 2020

Persons in occupancy or actual possession of said property; Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots.

A Petition for Tax Deed on premise described below has been filed with the Circuit Clerk of OGLE County, Ill. as Case No. 2017TX17 The Property is located at: 12043 W. Pitt Rd., Forreston, IL Property Index Number: 02-21200-005 Said Property was sold on 11/2/2017 for Delinquent Real Taxes Estate and/or Special Assessments for the year 2016.

The period of redemption will expire on 9/21/2020.

On 10/15/20 at 09:00 am the Petitioner will make application to such Court in said County for an Order for Issuance of a Tax Deed.

Realtax Developers, Ltd, Petitioner May 29, June 5 & 12, 2020

Great Garage Sales Call

284-2222

Classifieds Work!

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815-284-2222 815-625-3600 In Print & Online

www.saukvalley.com

• Friday, May 29, 2020

MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS NOMINEE FOR CITIBANK N.A. ASSIGNED TO NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE, LLC, DBA MR.COOPER, AND UNKNOWN OWNERS, Defendant(s).

JAMES E. STEVENS

LEGAL NOTICES

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required OTICES 101 LEGAL by TheNCondominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g) (1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

CLASSIFIEDS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− Classified a dvertising Acct #: 10156915 LOT TWELVE (12) AS DESIGNATED UPON THE PLAT OF CHILDERS ACRES NO. 3, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER (1/4) OF SECTION 28, IN TOWNSHIP 40 1011 LEGAL NOTICES NORTH, RANGE EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, THE PLAT OF WHICH SUBDIVISION IS RECORDED IN BOOK “I” OF PLATS ON PAGE 19 IN THE RECORDER'S OFFICE OF OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS; SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF OGLE AND STATE OF ILLINOIS.

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| CLASSIFIEDS

30

LEGAL NOTICES

101

TAKE NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 2016-00157 TO: Donald J. Wilson Ashley A. Wilson Occupant Persons in occupancy or actual possession of said property; Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots.

A Petition for Tax Deed on premise below described has been filed with the Circuit Clerk of OGLE County, Ill. as Case No. 2017TX17 The Property is located at: 206 W. Lincoln St., Mount Morris, IL Property Index Number: 08-27434-006 Said Property was sold on 11/2/2017 for Delinquent Real Taxes Estate and/or Special Assessments for the year 2016.

The period of redemption will expire on 9/21/2020.

On 10/15/20 at 09:00 am the Petitioner will make application to such Court in said County for an Order for Issuance of a Tax Deed.

Realtax Developers, Ltd, Petitioner May 29, June 5 & 12, 2020

Advertise Your Rentals in Ogle County Classifieds

A2 REAL ESTATE 200

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE, STATE OF ILLINOIS WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY IN ITS CAPACITY AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF MATAWIN VENTURES TRUST SERIES 2017-1, Plaintiff(s), vs.

MATTHEW JUSTICE, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendant(s).

Case No. 19 CH 55 NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment heretofore entered by the said Court in the above entitled cause, the Sheriff of Ogle County, Illinois, will on June 26, 2020, at the hour of 10:00 AM, at the OGLE PUBLIC SAFETY COMPLEX, 202 S 1ST STREET, OREGON, IL 61061, sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, all and singular, the following described premises and real estate in the said Judgment mentioned, situated in the County of Ogle, State of Illinois, or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment, to wit: Common Address: 7108 S. WEST ST., ROCHELLE, IL 61068 P.I.N. 24-28-101007-0000

Call

625-3600 or 284-2222

Contact the Law Office of IRA T. NEVEL, LLC, 175 North Franklin, Suite 201, Chicago, Illinois 60606, (312) 357-1125, for further information.

The terms of the sale are: Ten percent (10%) due by cash or certified funds at the time of

Office of IRA T. NEVEL, LLC, 175 North Franklin, Suite 201, Chicago, Illinois 60606, (312) 357-1125, for REAL ESTATE 200 further information.

The terms of the sale are: Ten percent (10%) due by cash or certified funds at the time of the sale and balance is due within 24 hours of the sale. The subject property is subject to real estate taxes, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "as is" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the Court.

The property is improved by a Single Family Residence, together with all buildings and improvements thereon, and the tenehereditaments, ments and appurtenants thereunto belonging and will not be available for inspection prior to sale.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g) (1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

LAW OFFICES OF IRA T. NEVEL, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff Ira T. Nevel ARDC #6185808 Timothy R. Yueill ARDC #6192172 Greg Elsnic ARDC #6242847 Aaron Nevel ARDC #6322724 Joseph Baldwin ARDC #6323598 Danielle Alvarez ARDC #6325510 175 North Franklin St. Suite 201 Chicago, Illinois 60606 (312) 357-1125 Pleadings@ nevellaw.com SL # 19-03035 May 22, 29 & June 5, 2020

ARDC #6323598 Danielle Alvarez ARDC #6325510 175 North Franklin St. Suite 201 Chicago, Illinois REAL ESTATE 200 60606 (312) 357-1125 Pleadings@ nevellaw.com SL # 19-03035 May 22, 29 & June 5, 2020

VOLUNTEERS

126

CASA 15th Judicial Circuit (Lee/ Carroll/Ogle Counties) is seeking volunteers in the Ogle County area to advocate for children in the Ogle County court system involved in abuse and neglect cases.

Your involvement can impact a child’s future.

Contact Trisha Morrow, Executive Director (815) 288-1901 www.casaleecar roll.com

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815-626-7653 OGLE COUNTY NEWSPAPERS

512

NO INDIVIDUAL, unless licensed or holding a permit as a childcare facility, may cause to be published any advertisement soliciting a child care service.* A childcare facility that is licensed or operating under a permit issued by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services may publish advertisements of the services for which it is lispecifically censed or issued a permit. Sauk Valley Media strongly urges any parent or guardian to verify the validity of the license of any facility before placing a child in it's care. *Family homes that care for no more than three (3) children under the age of twelve or which receive only children from a single household, for less than 24 hours per day, are exempt from licensure as day care homes.

The three children to whom this exemption applies includes the family's natural or adopted children and any other persons under the age of 12 whether related or unrelated to the operator of the day care home. (DCFS Rule, Part 377.3 (c))

MISCELLANEOUS 796 FOR SALE See More Online Photos, Commerce, Expanded Text ➛Look for WEB ID ➛Log on to: www.saukvalley. com classifieds ➛Enter the WEB ID in the WEB ID Box ➛View Photos, Expanded Text BUY ONLINE!! saukvalley.com CLASSIFIEDS

LIVESTOCK / SUPPLIES

840

DISABLED LIVESTOCK WANTED Top Prices Paid Call toll free 815-871-2697

SCHAAP LIVESTOCK

MOTORCYCLES 935 2010 Hyosung GV250 motorcycle. $1,300 815-441-2644

SELL those unwanted items with the help of the Classifieds!

Call today!

625-3600 284-2222

Qualified applicants must meet the following minimum standards: • Minimum of 21 years of age.

• High school diploma or successful completion of GED. • Must possess a valid driver’s license.

• Must be able to successfully complete a criminal background investigation.

Candidates that are already certified as a law enforcement officer by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board are also strongly encouraged to apply.

Applications may be obtained at the Polo City Clerk’s Office, 115 S. Franklin Avenue, Polo Illinois or online at www.poloil.org.

BEWARE OF INTERNET PUPPY SCAMS!

LOOKING FOR QUALITY NEWSPAPER CARRIERS Routes Available Now Dixon 4th Ave, Graham, Hubbell (Rt. 3102 - 58 customers) 1st-4th Ave, Palmyra St, Hill Dr (Rt. 3107 - 83 customers) Marclare, Apple, Brinton, Washington (Rt. 3081 - 90 customers)

Visit the American Kennel Club website (www.akc.org) for tips on how to avoid getting scammed and to find a responsible dog breeder.

If you have been the victim of a scam, report it to your local authorities and your local BBB (www.bbb.org)

The City of Polo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Sterling and Rock Falls Several routes available! Call for more details.

Call for available Motor Routes!

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CALL 815-625-3600 EXT. 5301 Telegraph • 113 S. Peoria Dixon, IL 61021

We have advertising solutions to fit your needs!

OGLE COUNTY NEWSPAPERS 815-625-3600 815-284-2222

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Your News. Your Way. Staying connected is now easier than ever…

LOCAL NEWS REGIONAL NEWS LOCAL BUSINESS SPORTS

REAL ESTATE CLASSIFIEDS OBITUARIES and so much more

Call 815-284-2222 or visit www.oglecountynews.com

• Friday, May 29, 2020

Sometimes it really is as simple as black & white.

31 CLASSIFIEDS | Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com

The Polo Police Department is seeking qualified applicants for the position of POLICE OFFICER with the City of Polo.

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SUDOKU PUZZLE

Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.

Astrograph Get rid of dead weight and negativity in your life, so that you can move forward free and clear of anything detrimental. Follow your heart and do the things that bring out the best in you and make you happy.

FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- Don’t expect to receive valid information.

If you want the truth, go directly to the source. It’s up to you to do your due diligence if you’re going to get ahead.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -- Explore new possibilities.

Join online chat groups. Do something that will boost your ego. A makeover or fitness routine will encourage you to take better care of yourself.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- Offer compassion and understanding to close friends and relatives. A kind word will motivate a loved one. A creative endeavor will encourage you to develop a new skill.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -- Watch documentaries or sign up for an online course that will help you develop new skills. A positive change will enhance the way you structure your life and daily routine.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -Share something special with a loved one. A conversation about something that you can look forward to enjoying together will lift your spirits and bring you closer together.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- Don’t be fooled by someone looking for a handout or trying to take advantage of you and your generosity. You can make a personal gain if you look out for your interests yourself.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept.

22) -- Sit tight and gather information. Your memory won’t let you down, and should prove crucial when it comes time to decipher someone’s motives. Don’t act in anger.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- A change to the way you deal with family matters will help you solve pending problems. Speak from the heart to encourage others to see things your way.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) -- Refuse to let anyone disrupt your plans. Focus on tidying up unfinished business and making improvements to your living space. Be honest with a loved one and find out where you stand.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) -- Be careful how you display your feelings. If you are too aggressive, it will have an adverse effect.

Patience will be required when dealing with sensitive issues.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- If you take a closer look at how you spend your time, you’ll come up with a plan that will help you become more efficient, leaving more room for fun and adventure.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- Take more time to figure out what you want.

If someone applies pressure, walk away. Don’t rely on others to make decisions for you. Stand up for your rights. ©2020 UFS

CARS815.com

Find Crossword Answers in today’s classifieds

www.oglecountynews.com

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, May 29, 2020

| CLASSIFIEDS

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