As of April 7, 2026, Whiteside News is the successor newspaper to Prophetstown Echo, Fulton Journal and Whiteside News Sentinel
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PROPHETSTOWN LIBRARY ACTIVITY SCHEDULE
Reading tutoring
If your child is struggling with reading, Prophetstown Library can help.
Anyone who would like help with reading on a weekly basis should contact the library and they will set up private times to tutor at the library.
Tutors will work through flash cards and direct person-to-person reading. These sessions are free and open to the public. Contact the library at 309-714-2699 or email hcadams1@yahoo.com.
Pen Pal Club
Henry C. Adams Memorial Library in Prophetstown will participate in a nationwide pen pal club.
Libraries across the nation will connect you with others in search of pen pals. All mail gets sent to the corresponding library so there is no sharing of addresses. This is for all ages.
If you would like to sign up, stop in. Once the administration assigns a match, the library will let you know their name and the library it will be going to.
After-school crafting club with Raven
All kids are invited every Wednesday and Friday for an after-school crafting club at the library. Come hang out with our employee, Raven Newman, and craft some fun new projects. The club will meet from 3 to 5 p.m. All supplies will be provided.
Crochet class to be offered for May/June sessions
Beginner crochet classes will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturdays in May and June and will be led by Prophetstown crocheter Nikol Hamstra.
Cost will be $10 a class to participate and this includes yarn and hook.
Classes will be offered one at a time so individuals can come when their schedules are open. Youths and adults are encouraged
to sign up by calling the library at 309-7142699 or emailing hcadams1@yahoo.com.
Summer reading signup to begin
Feel free to stop in and sign up for our June Summer Reading Program. The program runs every Tuesday in June. Ages are Pre-K through eighth grade. Cost is $3 and this includes all five weeks of June activities.
School of Rock in session
Calling all future musicians! We want to see a future with music in it.
Prophetstown Library is offering a new program to discover the joy of music. The first installment will be on the violin.
All kids, and adults too, are invited to attend a violin jam session with local violinist and instructor Jenna Scifres from Forge and Fiddle in downtown Prophetstown.
Jenna will be showing how the violin works, different styles of music you can make with the violin and we will be making percussion to go along with her violin. See everyone at 10 a.m. Friday, May 29.
Role-playing game club
A role-playing game club (Call of Cthulhu) will meet every Monday from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Prophetstown Library. This is for anyone age 10 and older. All materials will be available unless you would like to bring your own dice, pencils, books etc. Stop by or call the library with any questions at 309-714-2699.
Lego Club
Lego Club will meet at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 30. All ages are invited. Snacks will be provided.
Reptile Meet and Greet coming in June
Christal’s Exotics and Erie Reptiles will host a “Reptile Meet and Greet” at the Prophetstown Library from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Saturday, June 13. These great friends have teamed up to bring a nice collection of snakes and lizards. These are all nonvenomous and this is a family-friendly event.
Seed library
Prophetstown Library has received a generous donation from 4-H Extension of Whiteside County. There is a huge variety of vegetable and garden seeds for anyone who utilizes our local library to have free of cost.
Prophetstown Proud to Read program
This is an incentive reading program that will run from June 1 to Aug. 1. The program is built to encourage kids to read through incentives that have been donated by local businesses.
Children who sign up for the Summer Reading Program and are committed to reading throughout the summer months will be presented with a tracking sheet (that the library or a parent can hold on to) meant to keep track of points earned from each book read.
All books can be checked out at Henry C. Adams Memorial Library and tracked by the library director. After reading the book, the child will have their parent sign the tracking paper, and as the child turns in the book the librarian will add the points to the tracker. The tracker has a maximum of 30 points for the Summer Program.
Gold Level will complete the whole tracker at 30 points and above. Silver Level will complete at least 15 points of the tracker. When the child has completed the tracking card with their books read and signed by a parent or librarian, they will then receive a certificate to receive a reward. Follow us on Facebook to see a sneak peek of businesses that have donated to the program.
The reading program ends by Aug. 1, with all certificates to be spent by Oct. 1. – Shaw Local News Network
MICHAEL JOE MEDEMA
Born: April 22, 1952
Died: April 18, 2026
Michael Joe Medema passed peacefully on April 18, 2026, at the age of 73, with his family at his side. Born in Florida on April 22, 1952, Mike was living in Scottsdale, Arizona at the time of his death.
Mike was the firstborn son of Donald, also known as Red (deceased) and Evelyn (alive and well at age 94). He has two sisters and one brother, all raised in the small town of Albany, Illinois. Mike went to Fulton High School. He excelled in sports and academics, was offered a scholarship to Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology where he earned a degree in Civil Engineering.
Michael had just begun his very successful career in construction in Ohio, when his father
DARYL EUGENE SCHROEDER
Born: September 14, 1966 in Clinton, IA Died: May 20, 2026 in Sterling, IL
DATELINE: PROPHETSTOWN, ILLINOIS
DARYL EUGENE
SCHROEDER, 59, of Tampico, IL, died Wednesday May 20, 2026 at CGH Medical Center in Sterling, IL. Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial visitation will be held from 4-7 PM on Thursday June 11, 2026 at the Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 AM Friday, June 12, 2026 at the Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home, with Pastor Scott Miner of River Church in Prophetstown officiating. A memorial has been established by the family.
Daryl was born September 14, 1966, in Clinton, IA, to LaVerne D. and Donna J. (Mitchell) Schroeder. He attended Morrison grade schools and was a 1984 graduate of Morrison High School. He went on to receive a manufacturing and technology degree from Sauk Valley Community College. Daryl married Michele
died unexpectedly in 1975. He moved back to Albany to take over his father’s excavating business to help his mother and siblings. As Mike’s career grew, so did his family. His daughter was born while in Illinois, and his son was born after he took a job in Oklahoma. The bulk of Michael’s construction career was in California, first at Edwards Air Force Base, followed by his final employment as an executive at Rasmussen.
Mike was enjoying his retirement, especially deep-sea fishing in Alaska along with his love of sports (Go Packers!), travel, art, and history. His home was a mini gallery of beautiful treasures that he found on his many travels near and far around the world.
Michael, called “Big Mike” by his friends at Clancy’s in Scottsdale, was a good man. He was kind and generous to his family and his friends. Mike will be greatly missed by his loving family, including his children, mother, siblings, nieces, nephews and cousins, as well as the many friends he made throughout his life.
DONALD DAVID STROHMAN
Born: April 6, 1924 in Sigourney, Illinois Died: May 18, 2026 in Erie, Illinois
Donald David Strohman, 102, of rural Erie, IL, died Monday, May 18, 2026 at his home surrounded by his daughters. Visitation was 4-7 pm Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at Gibson-Bode Funeral Home, Erie. Services were at 11:00 am Thursday at the funeral home. Burial was in North Cemetery, Geneseo, IL. Memorials may be made to the Hillsdale United Methodist Church or to a charity of choice.
commissioner of the Penny Slough Drainage Ditch and was founder of the National Farmers Organization. He loved to study and learn about history. Don loved his country and was a lifelong Democrat.
He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Don always remembered the first time he laid eyes on Mary, it was love at first sight.
L. Colyott on August 18, 2018 in Annawan, IL. Daryl was the lead machinist at Starbuck Machinery in Fulton, IL. He was an avid bowler and was a member of the USBC Bowling Association. He enjoyed traveling and going to his grandchildren’s sporting events. Daryl was a die-hard Chicago and Fighting Illini sports fan. Survivors include his wife Michele of Tampico; two daughters, Kaylene Schroeder of Tampico and Anna Schroeder of Chicago, IL; two step children, Jessi (Philip) Wright of Tampico and Jamie (Jess) Sturtevant of Princeton, IL; eight grandchildren, Melanie Sue, Easton Wayne, and Waylon Daniel; Sawyer James, Carmen Judith, and Norrah Elizabeth; Connor James and Michael James; his parents, LaVerne and Donna of Morrison; one brother, Dwaine Schroeder of Morrison; niece and nephew, Lindsey and Brandon Schroeder; many aunts; former daughter in law; Noel Sturtevant; life long friends, John Bland, Joe Klimson, Marc Manchester and Steve Backhus and his beloved dogs, Moose and CoCo. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Everett and Dorothy Schroeder; his maternal grandparents, Lyle and Anna Mitchell; many uncles
To send online condolences go to www. bosmagibson.com
Don was born April 6, 1924 in Sigourney, IA, a son of David and Anna (Bruns) Strohman. He graduated from Geneseo High School in 1941. Don married the love of his life, Mary L. Egert on February 2, 1944. They made their home on the farm in Erie where they raised their 4 daughters and he lived until his passing. Don was a lifelong farmer. He was passionate about farming but also was a talented carpenter, electrician, mechanic, plumber and inventor. He was a member of the Hillsdale United Methodist Church, served as the
LINDA K. WILLIAMS
Born: December 16, 1944 in Cedar Rapids, IA
Died: May 16, 2026 in Prophetstown, IL
PROPHETSTOWN – Linda Kay Williams, age 81, died at home Saturday, May 16, 2026. Linda was born on December 16, 1944 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa the daughter of Joy and Clara (Hammond) Moore. She married Larry Williams on October 7, 1962 in Prophetstown. Linda retired after many years of service from Sterling Multi Products. She was a member of Harvest Time Bible Church in Rock Falls. Linda enjoyed gardening, working puzzles and playing games with Larry. Linda’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family.
Survivors include her husband Larry Williams of Prophetstown; one son, Jeffrey
JOHN MARTIN “MARTY” ANDERS
John Martin “Marty” Anders, 71, of Fulton, IL, passed on May 18, 2026. Arrangements entrusted to Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home, Fulton, IL. Additional information: www.bosmarenkes.com.
He is survived by his 4 daughters, Janice Heinsen, Hillsdale, Linda (Gus) Hicks, Kewanee, Diane (Allan) Stichter, Erie, Sandy (Bob) Hermes, Erie; grandchildren, Wade Heinsen, Stephanie (Jeff) Parker, Joni (Dave) Houtakker, Julie (Keith) Bridgewater, Brandon (Casey) Stichter, Brett (Donna) Stichter, Nathan (Sarah) Stichter, Drew (Jen) Temple, Matt (Jessica) Temple, Brooke (Derrick) Johnson, Kayla Temple; great grandchildren, Taylor, Trae, Gaege, Amanda, Jessica, Cody, Cheyenne, Kyle, Hope, Erin, Abigail, Kaylee, Kelsey, Liam, Reid, Katelyn, Dylan, Max, Kash, Ashlyn, Ava, Bella, Hallie, Makenzie; 8 great-great grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Lois Drummet; and several nieces and nephews.
Don was preceded in death by his wife Mary in 2015; son-in-law, Lee Heinsen; brothers, Al, Richard, Lawrence and Bob Strohman and sister, Gertrude Hail.
Share a memory or condolence at www. gibsonbodefh.com
(Theresa) Williams of Rock Falls; three grandchildren, Samantha Ann (Brad) Rogers, Samantha Lucille (David) Freeman and Seth (Jordan) Williams; six great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Ellen Jeann Williams; one son, Michael James Williams; one sister, Kathy Lenox.
Gathering of family and friends will take place May 28th from 10:00 -11:00 AM at Harvest Time Bible Church in Rock Falls. Memorial service will follow at 11:00 AM with Pastor Jason Borton officiating.
In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Stephens Ministry through Harvest Time Bible church in Rock Falls.
Online condolences may be sent to www.mcdonaldfunberalhomes.com
How to submit
Send obituary information to saukobits@shawlocal.com or call 815-526-4438. Notices are accepted until 9 a.m. Monday for Tuesday’s edition. Obituaries also appear online at shawlocal.com.
Kiwanis Club boosts Fulton Rec League’s baseball coffers
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David Frantz, co-committee person and lieutenant governor for the District 16 Kiwanis Club, presented a check to Colleen Temple and a couple of the players who have signed up to play baseball in the Rec League.
Girls and boys teams each year fill the ballfields in Fulton for summer play. Over 20 sponsors have allowed the Fulton Kiwanis Club to hang their specific banners for a fee, with $3,200 presented to the league to help pay for referee fees, diamond upkeep, and the purchase of new uniforms as needed.
The Kiwanis Club thanks each advertiser, including the city of Fulton, which also has a banner. The league would not exist without this income, according to a news release.
Let’s Feed Our Children program to mark 25 years
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United Way of Whiteside County will celebrate 25 years of making sure no child in Whiteside County goes hungry when school is out.
Let’s Feed Our Children, the free summer meal program that has grown into one of the most far-reaching child hunger programs in the area, runs Wednesdays through Aug. 5.
Each Wednesday, families can pick up grab-and-go bags containing four free, kid-friendly meals at any of the program’s 17 distribution sites across 11 communities. No registration or paperwork is needed; all children or teens are welcome.
“What started as a small, local response to summer hunger has grown into something that reflects the very best of this community,” said Keri Olson, CEO of United Way of Whiteside County. “Twenty-five years in, we are reaching more kids in more places than ever before, and that is because of the volunteers, donors and partners who show up
every single week. This anniversary is theirs as much as it is ours.”
The program started during one of the most difficult economic moments in Whiteside County’s modern history.
When Northwestern Steel and Wire in Sterling closed its doors in 2001, the community lost thousands of jobs virtually overnight. Families were thrust into sudden financial hardship. Community leaders and local organizations recognized that kids would go hungry in the summer without the safety net of school meals. Let’s Feed Our Children was born from that response to a community in crisis.
Twenty-five years later, the program continues to serve a community where need has never disappeared. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Let’s Feed Our Children has expanded from 15,000 meals distributed in 2021 to more than 46,000 meals served in 2025. UWWC is projecting to serve 50,000 meals in 2026.
Let’s Feed Our Children is made possible by the generosity of individual donors, local businesses, community organizations and grant funders who
2026 program locations
Meals will be distributed at the following sites from noon to 12:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 5:
Albany: United Methodist Church
Erie: Village Office
Fulton: First Reformed Church
Lyndon: Village Office
Morrison: Crossroads Community Church
Prophetstown: Eclipse Square Shelter
Rock Falls: Coloma Homes, Merrill School, Rock Falls Public Library, Rotary Park
Sterling: Broadway Methodist, Latin American Social Club, Scheid Park, St. Paul Apartments, Ster-Lynn Apartments, Wallace School
Tampico: Wietenkamp Hall
believe every child deserves reliable access to food, regardless of the time of year. UWWC continues to seek community support to sustain and grow the program.
For information about Let’s Feed Our Children, call United Way of Whiteside County at 815-625-7973 or visit uwwhiteside.org.
Hellmich looks back at tenure as SVCC’s president
By CODY CUTTER ccutter@shawmedia.com
For more than a decade, Sauk Valley Community College President David Hellmich has put the emphasis on two words in the name of the institution he led: “Community” and “College.”
During his tenure there, he devoted his time to bringing the two closer together and his influence can be seen in both, as he helped pave the way for the college to become further woven into the fabric of the community. His work reached beyond Sauk’s walls and halls and into the faces and places it served. Sauk’s president is a title he’s been proud to hold.
Now he’s getting ready to devote his time to another title he wears proudly: Grandpa.
A couple of weeks after commencement, Hellmich will wrap up a long career in higher education, stepping down as president of Sauk Valley Community College at the end of May after 11 years. He leaves not only as an educational leader, but as a community connector who built relationships with
Alex T. Paschal
SVCC President David Hellmich addresses graduates Friday, May 15, during the school’s commencement ceremony. The retiring president was awarded the President Emeritus status for his 11 years as head of the college.
service clubs, local governments and businesses, all to help strengthen not only Sauk Valley Community College, but the Sauk Valley.
The decision to retire coincides with
interstates. We have airports. We are rural, but we’re not rural — we’re an hour-and-a-half from O’Hare, the Quad-Cities and Rockford, but you get the best of small town, the best of rural, while you still have access.”
Raised in Greensburg, Indiana, Hellmich grew up in an area not unlike the Sauk Valley: a small-town agricultural community. After a decade as vice president of academics at Bluegrass Community and Technical College in Lexington, Kentucky, he and Linda sought a return to that environment. The Sauk Valley offered a professional and personal midpoint aligned with their family priorities.
the reason why Hellmich’s career has taken him to various points across the nation: spending time with family. He and his wife Linda raised a family in Minnesota, moved to Kentucky to be closer to relatives, came to the Sauk Valley as a midpoint, and will retire to Minnesota to be near their four grandchildren.
“We love the Sauk Valley, but there are four reasons why we’re moving, and those are the four grandchildren we have,” Hellmich said. “We wanted to get closer to the grandkids; otherwise, we’d stay here because we love it here.”
Hellmich’s career in community colleges spans nearly 40 years. After leadership roles in Florida, Minnesota and Kentucky, he became president of Sauk Valley Community College in 2015. During his time, he helped strengthen partnerships, launched initiatives such as the IMPACT earned tuition program, and guided the college through financial strain and the coronavirus pandemic.
Wanting to be a strong advocate for the region, Hellmich often describes the Sauk Valley as a “jewel,” citing its resources, location and momentum, while championing growth, access and deep community connection.
When George Mihel retired from Sauk in 2015, the board of trustees narrowed its search to three finalists, including Hellmich. Learning the board wanted a stronger community presence, he was drawn to the role. Upon landing the job, he and Linda, who recently retired as a psychologist at KSB, settled in Dixon.
“This area is so much like where I grew up, with small towns and lots of manufacturing, and even more agriculture,” Hellmich said. “I remember driving by Jefferson School in Dixon, and Linda looked at me and said, ‘This is just like your hometown, this is just like Greensburg.’ We were just so impressed with the people here.”
From the outset, Hellmich looked at community connections as central to his role. He examined where faculty and staff were already engaged — boards, nonprofits and volunteer work — and identified gaps. From there, he and his leadership team expanded the college’s presence, which included launching a regional leadership program with local chambers of commerce and increasing outreach to service and economic development groups.
College presidents having an interest in the community “is absolutely critical,” he said. “You can’t really be a community college if you’re not the community’s college. You can’t be effective if you’re isolated.”
“I think the Sauk Valley is one of the real jewels of not only Illinois, but the country,” he said. “It’s amazing what the Sauk Valley has. We have water, and there are parts of the country that are fast running out of water. We have transportation. We have rail. We have
Hellmich arrived during a critical period in Illinois education, as the state entered a prolonged budget impasse from 2015 to 2017, but retreating from long-term goals and initiatives was not an option, Hellmich said. Instead, campus-wide discussions invited input from faculty and staff to reinforce their mission.
Ryan Thoreson graduates from Coe College
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Thoreson graduated Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa with degrees in economics and data science with minors in mathematics and Spanish.
Thoreson was also a four-year letter
Ryan Thoreson, son of Jon and Amy Leemhuis Thoreson and grandson of Al Leemhuis of Fulton and the late Martina Leemhuis, recently graduated from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
winner in baseball, earning all-conference recognition his junior year and this past season as a catcher was named the Conference Baseball Position Player of the Year for the American Rivers Conference.
Thoreson led the conference in sev-
eral categories, including a leading batting average of .442 with an OPS of 1.167 as he led his team with 61 total bases and 42 hits during conference play. Thoreson will be furthering his education at the University of Iowa in the fall.
MORRISON LIBRARY ACTIVITY SCHEDULE
Odell Public Library in Morrison offers story times, and Lego and Pokémon clubs.
Storytime is a 30-minute drop-in program each Thursday evening designed for families with preschool through early elementary-age kids (or anyone who still loves a good read-aloud). Families will enjoy stories, songs, rhymes and a craft each week as they become familiar with the library and meet new friends.
Pajamas always are welcome.
Lego Club meets from 10:30 a.m. to noon on the first Saturday of the month. This is the perfect chance for builders of
all ages and abilities to create. Odell provides a variety of bricks, including Lego, Duplo and MegaBlok. Creations are displayed in the library until the following club meeting.
Pokémon Club meets from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on the second Saturday of the month. Whether a Pokémon trainer plays the card game or just likes to collect, Pokémon Club brings fans together to play, trade and share their Pokémon knowledge.
Patron-led programs
All programs are free and open to the
public. Beginners are welcome. Please note that these programs are not run by Odell Public Library, though staff are happy to host and pass on any questions.
Pinochle : 1 to 5 p.m. Mondays, Odell Program Room
Scrabble : 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesdays, Odell Program Room
Chess : 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the second, third and fourth Mondays, Odell Program Room; 5 to 8 p.m. third and fourth Thursdays, Odell Program Room
Crafters : 5 to 7 p.m. Thursdays, Genealogy Room, bring a project and socialize
Book Club : 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., second Thursday, Odell Program Room (ask the front desk about getting a copy of the month’s book.
Museum and zoo passes
Looking to explore locally? Check out Odell’s Putnam Museum, Sawmill Museum or Niabi Zoo passes and enjoy a day exploring on us. Passes are available to adult Odell library cardholders on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 815-772-7323 to reserve a pass. The library is located at 307 S. Madison St. in Morrison.
Morrison man faces up to 100 years for meth trafficking
By CHARLENE BIELEMA cbielema@shawmedia.com
A Morrison man was taken into custody on several methamphetamine charges Thursday after police officers, who were staking out his home, watched him retrieve a box containing 420 grams of meth from his front porch.
Scott Pruis, 49, was formally charged Friday with meth trafficking, meth delivery and meth possession after postal service workers’ suspicions about a package mailed from California and addressed to his home triggered an investigation carried out by the Illinois State Police and the Blackhawk Area Task Force. He also was charged with possessing alprazolam, a controlled substance.
According to court documents, the meth trafficking charge accuses Pruis of bringing the drug in from another state with the intent to deliver it, and carries a prison sentence from 24 to 100 years if he is convicted.
The meth delivery charge carries a possible prison sentence of 12 to 50 years and a maximum fine $300,000, while the meth possession charge could lead to an eight-year prison sentence and a fine of $200,000.
Pruis pleaded not guilty to all charges Friday during his first appearance in Whiteside County Circuit Court.
During that appearance, Whiteside County Assistant State’s Attorney Laura Schrauth said postal service workers became suspicious of the package after it had been mailed from a California area known to be near narcotic activity, its postage paid using cryptocurrency. It was addressed to Pruis’s home in the 400 block of South Cherry Street in Morrison.
With the assistance of postal inspectors, the Illinois State Police retrieved the box when it arrived at the Morrison post office; a federal search warrant was granted so authorities could open and search it, Schrauth said. She said 420.7 grams of meth-filled pills were discovered in the box, which was then sealed back up and delivered to Pruis’s front door as officers watched the house.
After they saw him retrieve the box and reenter his home, officers served him with a warrant, searched his
home, and found the pills in a plastic food container inside a kitchen cabinet, Schrauth said. She said a search of the home’s game room turned up a plastic bag containing 79.7 grams of alprazolam, a generic form of Xanax.
She said the state’s attorney’s office was seeking to have Pruis remain in the Whiteside County Jail because of the threat the methamphetamine posed to the community.
But Whiteside County Assistant Public Defender Jessica Deets asked that Pruis be released because he needs to work as a self-employed handyman and painter to support three of his children; two are in college and one is in cosmetology school, she said. She also said he has strong family support.
She also said no crime of violence was involved and no weapons turned up during the search of his residence. His criminal history includes a 1995 conviction for possession of cannabis and a reckless driving conviction from 2011, Deets said.
Schrauth pointed to the danger posed by the amount of meth that she said he was responsible for bringing into the community. She also said he couldn’t be trusted if allowed on pretrial release.
“Anyone bold enough to use the government to commit a crime is bold enough to get around [pretrial] conditions,” she said.
Whiteside County Circuit Court Judge James Heuerman agreed with Schrauth, pointing to the amount of the drug and the danger it poses to the community at large.
“The reality is, possessing this quantity of methamphetamine suggests that there is the movement of a lot of methamphetamine,” he said, adding that the amount would have a serious, detrimental effect on the community into which it is brought.
“The danger of what that amount of meth can do to a community ... it’s horrible,’ Heuerman said, at one point saying 420 grams points to a “big-time business. It’s bad enough when people are moving 10 to 15 grams. When it’s over 400 grams, there’s only one reason: You are somewhere in the stream of commerce.”
Pruis is scheduled to appear in court for an attorney status hearing at 9 a.m. May 28. His preliminary hearing is set for 1:30 p.m. June 1.
Continued from page 5
Despite financial strain, the college preserved adult education programs and reestablished a Small Business Development Center. They were funded internally when state support stalled.
“It was a chance for us to come together and say, ‘What are we going to do?’” Hellmich said. “We had college-wide meetings, we had opportunities for people to give points of view, and that helped bring us together.”
Another test came with the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. Within days, Sauk transitioned nearly entirely online. Hellmich had previously dealt with a similar contingency plan when Bird Flu became a potential concern in Kentucky, and he drew upon some of those plans to help guide Sauk through this crisis.
“I am very proud of how we handled that,” Hellmich said. “There are times I think that it helps being a smaller institution. We didn’t have some of the complexities that some of the other colleges had, being in one building. Eric Epps, who at the time was our technology director, did a phenomenal job interfacing with external agencies and being
Hellmich recalls stories of students who once saw college as out of reach — including one from Cortez who told him about one young girl who said she simply wanted “a bedroom of her own” someday, he said, and how she found a pathway forward.
our lead. We didn’t have any faculty who refused to teach online. We didn’t have any staff who refused to do their job.”
Among Hellmich’s most cherished initiatives is Sauk’s IMPACT program, designed to expand access to higher education while strengthening community ties. The program, which began in 2021, allows in-district students to earn up to three years of tuition and mandatory fees by completing 100 hours of
Your Local Bank: Invested in the Community
community service before graduation and meeting other eligibility requirements.
Hellmich and Sauk vice president of advancement Lori Cortez worked on building the idea. Despite early skepticism from consultants, they pressed forward to refine the model to include an earned tuition through volunteer service. About $8.5 million has been raised, with a goal of serving 1,200 students by 2028.
“We thought this was going to be important to the community to have this free labor, and it be important for these kids to get to know their communities,” Hellmich said. “We had no idea how important this was going to be, but it was amazing with the feedback we got from the communities and agencies like the Rotary Club, the YMCA, the YWCA, and church groups. They had a hard time getting help. Now they have an abundance of help, largely from high school kids. It’s made their lives so much better and more rewarding because they find themselves volunteering along with other 15-, 16-, 17-year-olds.”
Being a leader is a role that Hellmich takes seriously, having also published essays on leadership throughout his career, and editing the book “Ethical Leadership in the Community College: Bridging Theory and Daily Practice,” in 2007. He took leadership courses while studying for his
See HELLMICH, page 9
Photo provided by Jim Grot
Dave Hellmich, president of Sauk Valley Community College in Dixon, gives a presentation to students in an undated photo.
Continued from page 8
doctorate in higher education at the University of Florida, and established his own curriculum while serving as dean of instruction at South Central College in Faribault, Minnesota. He also taught leadership courses at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, where future governor Tim Walz was once a student in his class.
But despite the impressive resumé, there’s one leader he still looks up to.
“[It was] my mother, who never graduated from high school, and got married and had her first child before she was out of high school,” Hellmich said.
As he steps away, Hellmich has confidence in his successor.
Vice president of academics Jon Mandrell will become the first president in the college’s 61-year history to be an internal hire, having been chosen by the board of trustees in September. Mandrell has already made his own impact on Sauk, leading both the
development of the college’s police academy and the return of its agriculture program.
“I do think it’s the right time,” Hellmich said. “Jon Mandrell is going to come in and he’s going to be amazing, and I think people are going to be stunned about how well the college does under his leadership. I like to think we’ve done well, but I think the best is yet to come.”
As he reflects on his tenure, Hellmich points less to personal accomplishments and more to the foundation he’s had a role in building at Sauk, and the people positioned to carry it forward.
“I hope that things keep going,” Hellmich said. “I would like to think there’s not a focus on me any more than anyone else. We have such a strong leadership team. We have such a strong, committed board and foundation board, great faculty and stuff, and community relationships. I’m really proud of what we’ve been doing the last 11 years. My goal was to be able to end my career at a place where I thought I could make a difference.”
Alex T. Paschal
Student speaker Briah Merriman is congratulated by SVCC President Dr. David Hellmich Friday, May 15, during the school’s commencement ceremony.
Woodlawn Arts Academy’s Juried Art Exhibit
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Cash prizes are up for grabs for the winners of Woodlawn Arts Academy’s 18th annual Juried Art Exhibit.
The academy in Sterling is accepting fine art and photography entries from adults, as well as children in kindergarten through 12th grade. The art exhibit is co-presented by Sauk Valley Community College.
Applications are available on the academy’s website at woodlawnartsacademy.com or in person at the academy, located at 3807 Woodlawn Road. Entries are due July 13, along with an entry fee of $10 for the adult exhibit and $5 for the children’s exhibit. Notices of acceptance will be given no later than July 27.
The public is invited to attend the opening reception for the exhibit from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Aug. 21.
Many of the artists will be
present, and artwork will be on display in the halls and lounge at the academy, and refreshments will be available.
Awards, including the juror’s picks and People’s Choice for Best of Show, voted by the public at the beginning of the reception, will be announced and prizes awarded at 6 p.m. Artwork will remain on display through Nov. 13. The exhibit is free and open to the public from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays.
Woodlawn Arts Academy is a partner agency of United Way of Whiteside and Lee counties, and financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Programs are partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.
During the year, the Academy presents three other exhibits. Watch woodlawnartsacademy. com and the academy’s program guide for information on upcoming exhibits.
Guests at a Woodlawn Arts Academy art exhibit opening view the artwork and visit with artists. The Academy is calling for entries for its 2026 Juried Art Exhibit, co-presented by Sauk Valley Community College. Entries are due July 13, and the exhibit opens Aug. 21.
Photo provided by Woodlawn Arts Academy
FULTON’S GLIMPSES OF THE PAST: MAY 26
60 years – May 25, 1966
The Fulton Assembly of God Church, which started with prayer meetings in various homes in 1935 and rented the former Methodist Church building for services in 1936, finally purchasing the building for $2,500 the same year, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with special services.
Dick Vogel and Jim Kettler were in a canoe just north of the mouth of Johnson Creek when a 3-pound, large-mouth bass jumped into their canoe. They thought at first that the intruder was a beaver, but were surprised to find that it was a fish. They planned to clean the fish and eat it Saturday evening.
50 years – May 26, 1976
The Fulton High track team qualified for the state meet in four events when the district meet was staged in Fulton. Individual qualifiers are Larry Kettler, who won first in the long jump; Jim Nagel, who won first in the high jump; and Scott Zahnle, who won second in the 880 and set a new Fulton school record of 2:01; and the winning mile-relay team of Jim Nagel, Jim Snyder, Scott Quick and Scott Zahnle.
Three retiring teachers in the River Bend district were honored at a gathering at the Fulton Junior High School. Those honored are Mrs. Thomas Kustes, sixth
grade social studies; Mrs. Marie Van Vuren, fifth grade math; and Mrs. Geneva Haring, sixth grade math.
40 years – May 28, 1986
Fulton Masonic Lodge presented its Community Builders Award for 1986 to Mr. and Mrs. James Fish. This is the first annual presentation of the award, which is part of a new statewide Masonic program intended to honor non-Masonic men and women who have performed important services for the community. The couple was honored for both their joint and individual community service records.
Winners of the Fulton-area Jaycees second annual fishing derby are Most Fish, Don Barsema; Heaviest Catch of Fish, Aaron Mitchell; Biggest Fish, Matt Tiesman, and Smallest Fish, Kevin Hamstra. More than 50 young fishermen attended this year’s event.
30 years – May 22, 1996
Mayor Kenneth Ven Huizen is asking the community to help the city of Fulton secure a grant that would bring in about $500,000 so that the community can afford some much-needed water and sewer projects.
Kelsey Asher, parents Jim and Megan and her teacher Torie Meade were invited to Quantum’s annual Responsible Care
Day. Quantum had an environmental poster contest to enhance the awareness, knowledge and understanding of environmental impacts today. Out of the top 10, Kelsey placed fourth and was given $25 in River City Gold certificates, an award and a Quantum cap. Kelsey did a wonderful job representing Fulton Elementary School. Fourth grade students from Clinton, Camanche, Fulton and Trinity Elementary schools entered the contest.
20 years – May 24, 2006
Don Loftus was named to the Fulton Fire Protection District by the Whiteside County Board. He will be replacing Danny Huff, who died earlier in the year. Don was a member of the Fulton volunteers when the district was formed with help from his father, Eddie Loftus. Loftus, along with William Carswell and Albert Norman, were instrumental in forming the Fulton Fire Protection District that encompasses not only the city of Fulton but the rural areas around Fulton.
Hudson Wikoff qualified for the state track meet at the sectional in Erie. Hudson made the shot put finals with an average throw for him of 45 feet. On his first throw in finals, his mark measured 49 feet, the qualifying distance. This throw was good enough for fourth place at the meet. He
joins Fulton’s great tradition of sending shot putters to the state meet.
10 years – May 25, 2016
This year’s Fulton Gardens Fund Grant will be used to restore and keep up the tulip beds along 14th Avenue, the four plots along Fourth Street, and the south plot on the Fulton dike. The $500 grant was awarded to the Robert Fulton Community Center so that Jean Roeder could replant tulip beds where needed and give some needed care to the various garden beds. The Fulton Gardens Fund was created in 2013 in memory of Gerhart Kopf to continue to support public garden areas in Fulton. Fulton Elementary teachers and staff were treated like Hollywood superstars by the PTO during Teachers Appreciation Week. Monday morning, teachers entered the building on a “red carpet” and each person found a personalized gold star on the floor of the main hallway. Lunches and breakfast were catered, with a potato bar for lunch one day, and a Friday afternoon room-to-room delivery cart offering snacks and homemade chocolate raspberry cheesecake. They were also given lanyards for their keys, as well as a nail manicure set, nail polish and flip flops to set the summer mood. PTO went above and beyond this year with their pampering.
We Support Our Local Schools!
GO STEAMERS AND KNIGHTS!
Millcreek Crossing
‘Summer of Adventure’ tour to visit Sterling, Morrison, Port Byron libraries
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
WQPT PBS invites families to join its “Summer of Adventure” tour, featuring guest appearances at library story times and community events throughout the region.
Attendees will have the opportunity to watch PBS KIDS programming, listen to a story and participate in a hands-on craft activity. Each child will also receive a free PBS KIDS Summer Activity Book and resources for accessing online content at PBSKIDS.org. The tour is designed to spark creativity and provide engaging, educational experiences for children and families.
Local communities scheduled for visits include:
• Sterling Library: 11 a.m. Friday, June 12
• Cordova Library in the Park: 10 a.m. Friday, June 26
• Odell Library, Morrison: 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 30
• River Valley Library, Port Byron: 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 22
Meet-and-greet opportunities and activities with Elinor from “Elinor Wonders Why” will be featured at the Odell Public Library in Morrison and in Geneseo and Galesburg.
As a public media service of Western Illinois University, WQPT PBS serves a diverse audience throughout west central Illinois and eastern Iowa. For a complete schedule of summer events, visit wqpt.org/outreach/summer-of-adventure.
Photo provided by Odell Public Library
Odell Public Library in Morrison will be one of the stops on the WQPT PBS “Summer of Adventure” tour, which will feature guest appearances at library story times and community events throughout the region.
Whiteside Area Career Center students pass CNA test with 100% rate
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Whiteside Area Career Center’s Health Occupations students have earned a 100% pass rate on the Certified Nursing Assistant exam, according to a news release.
This accomplishment reflects the dedication, hard work, and perseverance of the 67 Health Occupations students, as well as the commitment and guidance provided by WACC’s instructional team, according to the release.
The CNA certification is a first step for many students pursuing careers in nursing, healthcare and medical services. The career center is located at 1608 Fifth Ave. in Sterling.
CROSSVIEW CHURCH COMMUNITY MEAL
A free community meal is served from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. Wednesdays at CrossView Church, 703 14th Ave. in Fulton.
May 27: Hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, potato salad and ice cream bars
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Bread-making classes set at Fulton’s windmill
De Immigrant Windmill in Fulton will offer a bread-making event at the Windmill Cultural Center on June 6, July 4, Aug. 1 and Sept. 5.
Sign up for slots at 10:15 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 12:15 p.m. or 12:45 p.m.
Families and individuals, young and old, can use the mill’s stone-ground flour, mix it up, knead it into dough and 20 minutes later have a freshly baked loaf of rye or wheat bread to take home and enjoy.
While you are waiting for your bread to bake, a scavenger hunt will be available at de Immigrant windmill across the street.
The cost is $5 per loaf. For information or to register, call Pam at 563-340-0809 or email pfvz@yahoo.com.
37th annual Blessing of the Bikes set for June 7 in Fulton
ABATE of Iowa, District 21, will host the 37th annual Blessing of the Bikes at 1 p.m. Sunday, June 7, in downtown Fulton.
The blessings will be officiated by Father Barr. There is no scheduled end time. Golf carts and side by sides are welcome.
There will be a beer garden, vendors and a 50/50 drawing. New this year, Bad Ash BBQ Food Truck will be there. Fulton’s Ice Cream Shop will be open, as well. Participants are also asked to bring canned food for the
local food pantries. For more information, contact Juls at 563-249-5681.
The Blessing of the Bikes will take place rain or shine.
Mike Haemmerle to perform May 31 at Spring Valley Reformed Church
Spring Valley Reformed Church, located at 10960 Spring Valley Road in Fulton, welcomes Mike Haemmerle to the outdoor stage at 6 p.m. Sunday, May 31.
A free-will offering will be taken. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be moved indoors.
– Shaw Local News Network
Photo provided by the Windmill Cultural Center
events will be offered at Fulton’s Windmill Cultural Center in Fulton.
CHURCH LISTINGS
ALBANY
Albany United Methodist Church
502 N. First Ave., 309-887-4781
Pastor Toni Lucas
St. Patrick Catholic Church 1201 N. Bluff St., Albany
Father Timothy Barr, Pastor
CORDOVA
Cordova Baptist 602 Third Ave. South, Cordova
Pastor Carmen Jordan 309-654-2501 - www.cordovafbc.com
EAST MOLINE
Sycamore Baptist Church 5323 180th Street North, East Moline 309-200-2505 www.sycamorebaptistchurch.com
Wildwood Baptist Church 18717 Hubbard Road, East Moline 309-496-9397 office@ wildwoodchurch.com
Pastors Brian Smith, Andrew Robinson, Andy Thomaston and Matt Winquist
Zion Lutheran Church 17628 Hubbard Road, East Moline
Rev. Gary A. Wright - 309-496-3592
ERIE
Erie Baptist Church 8th Ave. and 11th Street, Erie
Call Ron Kimball for info: 309-230-3584
Erie Christian Church 715 6th Ave., Erie, 309-659-2561
First Christian Reformed Church 801 15th Avenue, Fulton, 815-589-3790 www.fultonfirstcrc.com firstcrcfulton@live.com
Pastor Michael Hooker
HILLSDALE
Hillsdale United Methodist Church 124 Butzer St., Hillsdale Church 309-658-2340
Pastor Melva England
HOOPPOLE
Calvary Evangelical Congregational Church Rev. Zachary Van Dyke, Pastor 563-370-8779
Hooppole Zion Methodist Church
Pastor Rolando Renteria 311 Main St, Hooppole, 815-948-7591 Parsonage 309-658-2145
LYNDON
Dominion Christian Fellowship Center 104 4th St. W., Lyndon 815-590-6971
Rev. Barbi E. Momolu Sr.
Trinity Baptist Church
403 6th Ave North, Lyndon Pastor Alan Jahn - 563-242-0307 www.trinitybaptistchapel.com
MORRISON
Bethesda Evangelical Lutheran Church 301 W. South St., Morrison Pastor Tammy Anderson 815-414-1758 - Office: 772-4896
Brethren In Christ Church 207 E. Knox Street, Morrison Sunday Worship at 10:30 a.m. 815-772-4871
Erie, Illinois
Church Of St. Anne Episcopal
401 N Cherry St., Morrison, 815-772-2818 stannemorrison@frontiernet.net www.churchofstannemorrison.org
Crossroads Community Church
201 W. Market, Morrison Pastor Jon Eastlick - 815-956-0090 morrison@crossroadscn.com
Ebenezer Reformed Church
309 E. Park St., Morrison Pastor J. T. Bean 815-772-2472
www.ercmorrison.com
Emmanuel Church
202 E. Morris St., Morrison 815-772-3890
www.ecmorrison.com
Rev. Luke Schouten, Senior Pastor Rich Criss, Ministry Coordinator
First Baptist Church
406 E. Maple Ave. Morrison
Pastor Roy Brown, II Phone 815-772-2696 facebook.com/morrisonfirstbaptist
First Presbyterian Church
Rev. Michael Selburg - 815-772-3510
100 East Lincolnway, Morrison Facebook live services Sundays 10:15 a.m. YouTube Channel: First Presbyterian Church firstpresmorrison@gmail.com www.firstpresmorrison.org
Kingdom Life Community Church
11429 Ward Road, Morrison 815-772-4098
www.kingdomlife.global
Pastor Stephen Harmon
Morrison Christian Church
201 S. Genesee, Morrison David Manley, Minister, 602-750-6426 d.manley93@yahoo.com
Google YouTube Larry Kidwell for sermons.
Morrison United Methodist Church
200 W. Lincolnway, Morrison Pastor Sun-Ah Kang - 815-772-4030
Tampico First United Methodist Church Pastor Leanne Keate - 815-564-2302
Warranty Deeds
Allon F Barsema and Linda L Barsema to Allon F Bresema, 5200 BENSON ROAD, FULTON, $0.00
Allon F Barsema and Linda L Barsema to Linda L Barsema, 5200 BENSON ROAD, FULTON, $0.00
Jennifer M Scanlan Fka and Jennifer M Black to Jennifeer M Black and Shawn K Black, 23160 CARROLL RD, MORRISON, $0.00
Judith K Atwell to Judith K Atwell Trust, 2214 14TH AVENUE, STERLING, $0.00
Matthew C Severing to Randy E Gerlach and Jackie Gerlach, 627 GENESEE AVE, MORRISON, $117,000
Arthurs Garden Deli Inc to Scott A Wolber, 1902 1ST AVENUE, ROCK FALLS, $0.00
Thomas Hanig and Patricia Hanig to Britt Ottens, 205 TOWNE STREET, MORRISON, $190,000
Douglas Behrens to Brett Bryant, 1904 AVE H, STERLING, $28,000
Gary J Buck and Kelly E Buck to Nicholas, 4361 BISHOP RD, PROPHETSTOWN, $70,000
Alan Perry and Michele Perry to Prime Point Rentals Llc, 1324 MARY AVE, ROCK FALLS, $52,850
Kevin E Heller and Kelli L Rodriguez to Mason G Mobarak and Abigail K Mccormick, 3241 MINERAL SPRINGS ROAD, STERLING, $228,000
Duwayne K Doane and Helen Doane to Martha M Rivera and Malakai S Doane, 1208 21ST ST W, ROCK FALLS, $70,000
Allen R Bailey and Maureen E Bailey to Maureen E Bailey Trust, Allen R Bailey Trust, 12522 SAND RD, FULTON, $0.00
Blaine Austin Kemp and Kinga Kemp to Matthew William Sparks, 502 7TH AVE, ROCK FALLS, $149,000
Farmers National Bank to Mark A Ward, Donna R Brooks, Bradley J Ward, and Janice L Buck, 5327 PERKINS RD, PROPHETSTOWN, $40,000
Molly A Mammosser to Lisa R Bickett and Scott A Bickett, 517 14TH AVE, ROCK FALLS, $112,000
Ellen M Heinsen to Shaylee C Cole and Eric A Cole, 424 12TH AVE B, ERIE, $235,000
Beauvais, 508 BLUFF ST N, ALBANY, $36,000
Richard D Milholin and Cheryl A Milholin to Katie A Kaup, 114 4TH ST, FULTON, $365,000
Tcs Total Property Management to Toma Ventures Llc, 1111 4TH AVENUE, STERLING, $0.00
Dustin D Hook to Cindy R Hook Trust, 2 Parcels: 02-14-300-002 and 02-23-100-011, $1,186,110
Eugene Weigant to Jeremy Vanscyoc, 803 PARK ST W, MORRISON, $111,000
Eugene Weigant to Jeremy Vanscyoc, 801 PARK ST W, MORRISON, $0.00
Joseph D Monnin and Terri L Monnin to Michael M Vasquez and Caraline S Vasquez, 43 MEADOW LANE, PROPHETSTOWN, $175,000
Sterling Pavilion Building Llc to 105 East 23rd Street Llc, 105 23RD ST E, STERLING, $7,388,088
Quit Class
Judith L Heath and Larry G Heath to Larry G Heath, Judith L Heath, Shaun A Mccrary, 14689 NORRISH ROAD, MORRISON, $0.00
Robert W Zais to Amber R Coplien, 210 MAIN ST N, TAMPICO, $0.00
Roberto Lopez to Manuel Lopez, 602 7TH AVE, ROCK FALLS, $24,000
Hannah A Gerald to Hannah A Gerald Trust, 416 12TH AVENUE A, ERIE, $0.00
Mary Ellen Keegan and Kevin P Keegan Trust to Keegan Legacy Farms Llc, 801 12TH STREET N, FULTON, $0.00
Find A Place Now Llc to Prime Point Rentals Llc, 701 ENGLISH ST, ROCK FALLS, $0.00
Build A Pet Llc to Sauk Valley Bank, 502 1ST AVE, STERLING, $170,000
Bernie F Ramos to Julie Pitchford, 808 AVE D, STERLING, $50,000
Firehouse Of God Ministries to Pink Heals Sauk Valley, 403 2ND STREET W, ROCK FALLS, $0.00
Trustees Deeds
Tina A Alber Trustee and Bruce A Hunter Trust to Julie Ann Allen and Michael Varela Allen, 16031 GREENLAND DR, MORRISON, $370,000
Insurance Agency, Inc.
Brent Dykstra, Agent In River City Mall
1426 10th Avenue, Fulton 815-589-2200
Elizabeth A Waltemade, Timothy B Barajas, and Joyce E Barajas Estate to Luis J Torres and Bertha Torres, 2215 5TH AVE, STERLING, $135,000
Nohemi Quiroz Martinez to Rock River Rebuilders Llc, 906 AVENUE G, STERLING, $41,000
Kenneth R Gooley to Equity Trust Company Custodian, Beauvais Ira Noah, and Noa Ira
William Behrens Trust, Douglas Behrens Trustee, and Audrey Behrens Trust to Douglas Behrens, 1904 AVE H, STERLING, $0.00
Betty B Walker Trust to Betty B Walker, 1014 8TH AVENUE, ROCK FALLS, $0.00
Executor’s Deeds
Stephen Byron Schnabel Estate to Brian Lee Schnabel and Brent Allen Schnabel, 8295 HURD RD, ERIE, $0.00
CLASSIFIED
those unwanted items with the help of a Classified
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Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent. Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record. Good communication and teamwork skills.
Compensation: $40,000 to $80,000 Annually Based on Experience.
Benefits Offered: Full benefit package includes Health Insurance with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, 401 (k) with aggressive match, Profit Sharing, Short-term and long-term Disability Dental Insurance and Vision are also available Year-end Bonus is based on individual and company per for manc e.
Send resume and salary history to: info@americansurvey.com American Surveying & Engineering, Ltd is an equal-opportunity employer.
Rob Young
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT WHITESIDE COUNTY, ILL INOIS
ROCKET MORTGAGE, LLC F/ K/A QUICKEN LOANS, LLC, PLAINTIFF, VS JOHN LYDON, SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF WILLIAM G BRUNS, DECEASED; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS; JAMES BRUNS; SARAH MONIER A/K/A SARAH BRUNS; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF WILLIAM G BRUNS; CITY OF ROCK FALLS, DEFENDANTS
NO. 2025FC26 501 W EST 20TH STREET ROCK FALLS, IL 61071
NOTICE OF SALE PURSUANT TO JUDGMENT OF FORECL OSURE UNDER ILL INOIS MORTGAGE F ORECLOSURE ACT
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale ente red by the Court in the above entitled cause on May 4, 2026, will on July 2, 2026, in Whiteside County Courthouse, Third Floor Lobby 200 E Knox Street, Morrison, IL 612 70, at 10:00 AM, sell at public auct ion and sale to the highest bidder for cash, all and singular, the following described real estate mentioned in said Judgment, situated in the County of Whiteside, State of Illinois, or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment: TAX NO. 11-33406-008 COMMONL Y KNOWN AS: 501 West 20th Street Rock Falls, IL 61071
Description of Improvements: White vinyl, single family home, attach ed 1 car garage The Judgment amount was $103,796.70.
Sale Terms: This is an "AS IS" sale for "CASH" . The successful bidder must deposit 10% down by certified funds; balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours NO REFUNDS
The subject prope rty is subject to general real estate taxes, s pecial assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate, water bills, etc., and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to pla intiff. The sa le is further subject to confirmat ion by the court Upon pay ment in ful l of the bid amount, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the r eal estate after confirmation of the sale
The property will NOT be open for ins pection. Prospecti ve bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information
The successful purchaser has the sole responsibili ty/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises.
If this prope rty is a condomi nium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, othe r than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the le gal fee s required by The Condominium Prope rty 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 SECTIO N 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
For Information: V is it our website at http://ilforeclosuresales.mrpllc.com
Betw een 3 p.m. and 5 p.m only - McCa lla Raymer Leibert Pier ce, LLP, Plaintiff's Attorneys, 333 W Wacker Drive, Suite 1820, Chicago, IL 60606-1220. Tel. No. (312) 346-9088. Please refer to file# 25-20590IL PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT, THE PLAINTIFF'S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Pla intiff's attorney is not required to provide additional information other than that set forth in this notice of sale I3 287417 Whiteside News May 26, Jun. 2, 9, 2026
REAL
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 14th JUDICIAL
DISTRICT WH ITES IDE COUNTY - MORRISON , ILLINOIS
PLA NET H OME LENDING LLC Plaintiff, -v.-
LYMAN DOUGLAS LEATHERS et al Defendant 2025FC60 NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 7, 2026, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 1:00 PM on June 15, 2026, at the Whiteside County Courthouse, 200 East Knox Street, front door entrance, MORRISON, IL, 61270, sell at public inperson sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following desc ribed real estate: Commonly known as 10045 HICKORY HILLS RD, ROCK FALLS, IL 61071 Property Index No. 17-07-477-015
The real estate is improved wi th a single family residence Sale terms: If sold to anyone other than the Plaintiff, 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation No third party checks will be accepted The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (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 quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in ''AS IS'' condition The sale is further subject to confirmat ion by the court
Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certi ficate 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 representation as to the condition of the property
Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information
If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclos ure 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 communi ty, 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)
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.
You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our buil ding and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identifi cation for s ales held at other county venues where Th e Judicial Sale s Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.
For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOC IATES, P.C. Plaintiff's Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876
THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATIO N One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 606064650 (312) 236-SALE
You can also v isit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.
CODILIS & ASSOCIATES , P.C 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300
NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Coll ection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.
Case # 2025FC60 I3287004
Whiteside News May 19, 26, Jun. 2 2026
NOTICE TO BID
The River Bend Community Unit School District #2 is seeking bid s on unleaded gasoline (containing 10% ethanol) and Diesel (#1 and #2 - sulfur content 0.5 or less AND CONTAINING 2% BIODIESEL) for the 2026-2027 school year (August 18, 2026June 30, 2027) Fuel is to be supplied on a keep full basis during the year and loaded into the school owned 2,000 gallon two compar tment above ground storage tank. River Bend schools also owns its own pumping equipment. Base price will include Superfund charge, no other taxes Bids shall be based on cents above the Bett endorf Rack Price or Rockford Rack Price. Attach a dated copy of the Bettendorf Rack Price List or Rockford Price List used for this bid Bids will be received until June 11, 2026, at 2:30 pm. at the Ri ver Bend District Office, 1110 3rd Street, Fulton, Illinois, 61252, clearly marked “fuel bid”. Bids will be discussed at the River Bend Community Unit District #2 Board of Educa tion Meeting at 6:30 P.M. on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. The River Bend Board of Education rese rves the right to reject any or all bids.
Sincer ely, River Bend
C.U.S.D. #2 Board of Educ ation May 26, 2026
As sumed Name
As sumed Name
Publication Notice
Public Notice is hereby given that on Monday, May 11, 2026, a certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk of Whiteside County, Illinois, setting forth the names and post-office addresses of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as: THE PIT STOP OF MORRISON loca ted at 611 E LINCOLNWAY RD MORRISON, IL 61270
Dated this 11 day of May, 2026. No. DBA5447
Karen J Str alow Clerk
May 19, 26, June 2, 2026
FULTON FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT
FULTON FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT DRAINAGE NOTICE TE NTATIVE BUDGET AND APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Tentative Budget and A ppropriation Ordinance for the Fulton Flood Control Distri ct for the fiscal year commencing May 1, 2026 and end ing April 30, 2027 is available for pub lic inspection at the office of the di strict treasurer, 1320 4th Avenue, Fulton, Illinois, and that a public hearing will be held on said tentative ordinance on the 27th day of July, 2026 at 5:00 p.m., at the Fulton Fire Station, 1802 16th Av enue, Fulton, Illinois. (NOTE: Said ordinance contemplates a total property tax levy of $50,000.00.)
Dated: May 18, 2026.
Emily M. Knott Secretary of the Board of Trustees Fulton Flood Control District Whiteside County, Illinois
May 26, 2026
Publication Notice Public Notice is hereby given that on Monday, May 11, 2026, a certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk of Whiteside County, Illinois, setting forth the names and post-office addresses of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as: THE PIT STOP OF MORRISON loca ted at 611 E LINCOLNWAY RD MORRISON, IL 61270
erty tax levy of $50,000.00.)
Dated: May 18, 2026. Emily M. Knott
Secretary of the Board of Trustees
Fulton Flood Control District
Whiteside County, Illinois
May 26, 2026
FULTON FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT
PUBLIC NOTICE
REGULAR
ME ETING
SCHE DULE
Regular meetings of the Board of Trustee s of the Fulton Flood Control Distri ct, wil l be held on the fourth Monday of each month at 5:00 p.m at the Fulton Fire Station, 1802 16th Avenue, Fulton, Illinois, excep t that there will be no December meeting Dated: May 18, 2026. Emily M. Knott Secretary of the Board of Trustees Fulton Flood Control District Whiteside County, Illinois
May 26, 2026
there will be no December meeting
Dated: May 18, 2026. Emily M. Knott
Secretary of the Board of Trustees
Fulton Flood Control District
Whiteside County, Illinois
May 26, 2026
available for pub lic inspection at 520 5th Avenue, Eri e, Illinois in this School District from and after 8:00 am., on the 19th day of May, 2026. Notice is further hereby giv en that a public hearing on said budget will be held at 6:30 pm., on the 22nd day of June 2026, in the High School Media Center at 435 6th Avenue, Erie, Illinois. Dated this 22nd day of May, 2026. The Schoolboard of School District Number 1, in the County of Whitesi de, State of Illinois. By Secretary Shannon James May 26, 2026
AND AVAILABILITY OF TENTATIVE BUDGET
NOTICE OF PUBLI C HEARING AND AVAILABILITY OF TENTATIVE BUDGET
NOTICE is giv en that on July 8, 2026 at 6:00 PM, the Board of Trustee s of the Fulton Fire Prot ection District of Whiteside County, Illinois will hold a public heari ng at the Fire Stati on, 1802 16th Ave., Fulton, IL, concerning the proposed Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance of said District for the fiscal y ear 2026 –2027. Copies of the tentative Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance are avai lable for publ ic inspection prior to said hearing at Heid Law Offices, LLC, 19670 Waller Rd., Fulton, Illinois, or at the District Fire Station Office.
Law Offices, LLC, 19670 Waller Rd., Fulton, Illinois, or at the District Fire Station Office.
Dated this 18th day of May, 2026. Boyd VanDellen Presiden t, Board of Trustee s of said District
May 26, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
described below has been filed with the Circuit Clerk of ROCK ISLAND County, IL as Case No. 2026TX81
The Property is loca ted at: 1105 N High St, Port Byron, IL 61275
Property Index Number : 04-24100-014
CERTIFICATE NO.
2022-00005
TO: Sandra Enright William T Enright Occupant Sandra Enright William T Enright Rock Island County Clerk Persons in occupancy or actu al possession of said property; Unknown owners or parties interes ted in said land or lots
Said Property was sold on 12/28/2023 for Delinquent Real Estate Taxes and/or Speci al Assessments for the year 2022. The period of redemption will expire on 9/16/2026. On 10/06/2026 at 1:00
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FOURTE ENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT ROCK ISLAND COUNTY, ILLINOIS SENECA MORTGAGE SERVICING LLC, PLAINTIFF, VS ASHLEY N HIXSON A/K/A ASHLEY NICOLE HIXSO N; GREGORY DALE HIXSON; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CL AIMANTS, DEFENDANTS. NO. 2025FC193
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 14th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT ROCK ISLAND COUNTY, ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS
U.S Bank National Association PLAINTIFF
Vs. A Van; Lam Nuam; City of Rock Island; Unknown Owners and Nonrecord Claimants DEFENDANTS No. 2026FC54 NOTICE B Y PUBLICATION NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU: A Van Unknown Owners and Nonrecord Claimants
Notice of Public Hearin g Erie S chool B oard of Education NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the School board of Erie CUSD 1, in theCounty of Whitesi de, State of Illinois, that the tentative amended budget for said School District for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, will be on file and conveniently available for pub lic inspection at 520 5th Avenue, Eri e, Illinois in this School District from and after 8:00 am., on the 19th day of May, 2026. Notice is further hereby giv en that a public hearing on said budget will be held at 6:30 pm., on the 22nd day of June 2026, in the High School Media Center at 435 6th Avenue, Erie, Illinois. Dated this 22nd day of May, 2026. The Schoolboard of School District Number 1, in the County of Whitesi de, State of Illinois. By Secretary Shannon James May 26, 2026
NOTICE is giv en that on July 8, 2026 at 6:00 PM, the Board of Trustee s of the Fulton Fire Prot ection District of Whiteside County, Illinois will hold a public heari ng at the Fire Stati on, 1802 16th Ave., Fulton, IL, concerning the proposed Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance of said District for the fiscal y ear 2026 –2027. Copies of the tentative Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance are avai lable for publ ic inspection prior to said hearing at Heid Law Offices, LLC, 19670 Waller Rd., Fulton, Illinois, or at the District Fire Station Office.
Dated this 18th day of May, 2026.
Boyd VanDellen Presiden t, Board of Trustee s of said District
May 26, 2026
A Petition for Tax Deed on premise described below has been filed with the Circuit Clerk of ROCK ISLAND County, IL as Case No. 2026TX81 The Property is loca ted at:
1105 N High St, Port Byron, IL 61275
Property Index Number : 04-24100-014
PM the Petitioner wi ll make application to such Court in said County for an Order for Issuance of a Tax Deed 1095 Investments, LLC, Petitioner 8025-964775
May 19, 26, June 2, 2026 964775
13601 138TH STREET WE ST TAYLOR RIDGE, IL 61284 NOTICE BY PUBLICATION NOTICE IS HE REBY GIVEN TO YOU, Ashley N Hixson a/k/a Ashley Nicole Hixson Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants defendants, that this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendants, asking for the foreclosure of a certain Mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to wi t: LOT #4 IN ECKHARDT'S 7TH ADDITION SITUATED IN NORTHWEST QUARTER OF NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION #17, TOWNSHIP #16 NORTH, RANGE #3 WEST OF THE FOURTH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN , IN ROCK ISLAND COUNTY.
Commonly known as: 13601 138th Street West Taylor Ridge, IL 61284 and which said Mortgage was made by, Ashley N Hixson a/k/a Ashley Nicole Hixson and Gregory Dale Hixson Mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Elec tronic Registration Systems, Inc as nominee for First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation dba goodmortgage.com Mortgagee, and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Rock Island County, Illinois, as Document No. 2021-11378; and for other relief.
UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwis e file your appearan ce in this case, on or before June 18, 2026, A JUDGMENT OR DECREE BY DEFAULT MAY BE TAKEN AGAIN ST YOU FOR THE RELIEF ASKED IN THE COMPLAINT.
That this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendants, praying for the foreclosure of a certain Mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to-wit: COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 1508 43rd St Rock Island, IL 61 201 and which said Mortgage was made by: A Van the Mortgagor(s), to U.S. Bank N.A., as Mortgagee, and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Rock Island County, Illinois, as Document No. 2015-08759; and for other relief; that summons was duly issued out of said Court against you as provided by l aw and that the said suit is now pending NOW, THEREFORE, UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the Office of the Clerk of this Court, Tammy R. Weikert Rock Island County Courthouse 1317 3rd Avenue, Suite 101 Rock Island, IL 61201 on or before June 18, 2026, A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAIN ST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRAYER OF SAID COMPLAINT.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF ROCK ISL AND COUNTY, ILLINOIS ROCK ISLAND COUNTY - CHANCERY DIVISION CARDINAL FINANCIAL COMPANY, LIMITE D PARTNERSH IP Plaintiff, vs. AMANDA M. VINCENT, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLA IMANTS, Defendant (s ). 2025F C88 NOTICE BY PUBL ICATION
Said Property was sold on 12/28/2023 for Delinquent Real Estate Taxes and/or Speci al Assessments for the year 2022. The period of redemption will expire on 9/16/2026. On 10/06/2026 at 1:00
PM the Petitioner wi ll make application to such Court in said County for an Order for Issuance of a Tax Deed 1095 Investments, LLC, Petitioner 8025-964775
Dated this 18th day of May, 2026. Boyd VanDellen Presiden t, Board of Trustee s of said District
CODILIS & ASSOCIATES , P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100 Burr Ridge, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 DuPage # 15170 Winnebago # 531
May 26, 2026
Our File No. 14-26-00979
NOTE: This law firm is a debt collector I3287145 Review May 19, 26, Jun. 2, 2026
Amanda M Vincent , Unknown Owners and Non-Rec ord Claimants that this case has been commenced in this Court, against you and other Defendants, praying for the foreclosure of a certain Mortgage conveying the premises described as fol lows, to wit: LOT NUMBER FOURTEEN (14) IN THAT PART OF THE CITY OF MOLINE KNOWN AS AND CALLED WILLIAM A NOURSE`S FIRST ADDITION, EXCEPTING SO MUCH THEREOF CONVEYED TO THE CITY OF MOLINE BY QUIT CLAIM DEED RECORDED IN BOOK 92 OF DEEDS, PAGE 159, NO. 47012 IN THE OFFICE OF THE RECORDER OF DEEDS OF ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS; SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF ROCK ISLAN D, IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS. COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 1331 12TH AVENUE, MOLINE, IL 61265
May 19, 26, June 2, 2026 964775
And which said Mortgage was made by: Amanda M. Vincent, the Mortgagor, to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC ("MERS"), AS NOMINEE FOR WATERSTONE MORTGAG E CORPORATION, as Mortgagee, and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Rock Island Count y, Illinois as Document No. 201510999; and for other relief, that summons was duly issued out of said Court against you as provided by law and that the said suit is now pending NOW, THEREFORE, UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the Office of the Clerk of this Court, Rock Island Circuit Clerk 210 15th Street Rock Island, IL 61201
On or before June 11, 2026, A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAIN ST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRAYER OF SAID COMPLAINT. Marinosci Law Group, P.C. 2215 Enterprise Drive, Suite 15 12 Westchester, IL 60154 Telephone: (312) 940-8580
NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collec tion Pr actices Act you are advised that this law firm is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. I3286801 Review May 12, 19, 26, 2026
You have been sued. To participate in the case , you MUST file an official document with the court within the time stated on this Notice called an "Appear ance" and a document called an "Answer/Response". The Answer/Response is not required in small claims or eviction cases unless ordered by the court. If you do not file an Appearance and Answer/Response on time, the court may decide the case without hearing from you, and you could be held in default and lose the case. After you fill out the neces sary documents, you need to electronically file (e-file) them with the court To e-file, you must cr eate an account with an efiling service provider. For more informat ion, go to ilcourts.info/efiling. If you cannot e- file, you can get an exemption that allows you to file in-person or by mail. You may be charged filing fees, but if you cannot pay them, you can file an Application for Waiver of Court Fees It is possible that the court will allow you to attend the first court date in this case in-person or remotely by video or phone. Contact the Circuit Court Cler k's office or visit the Court's website to find out whether this is poss ible an d, if so, how to do this. Need hel p? Call or text Illinois Court Help at 833-411-1121 or go to ilcourthelp.gov for information about going to court, including how to fill out and file documents. You can also get free legal information and legal referrals at illinoislegal aid.org. All documents refer red to in this Notice can be found at ilcourts.info/forms. Other documents may be available from your local Circuit Court Cl erk's office or website. ¿Necesita ayuda? Llame o envíe un mensaje de texto a Il linois Court Help al 833-411- 1121, o visite ilcourthe lp.gov para obtener información sobre los casos de la corte y cómo completa r y presentar formularios.
PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT COLLECTIO N PRACTICES ACT, THE PLAIN TIFF'S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTIN G TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.
McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP Attorney for Plaintiff 333 W Wacker Drive, Suite 1820 Chicago, IL 60606-1220
Ph (312) 346-9088
File No. 25-20258IL-1176682# 25-20258IL-1176682
I3286983 Review May 19, 26, Jun. 2, 2026
ORDINANCE 2026 - 04
WHEREAS, the Village of Cordova, Rock Island County, Illinois currently collects a fee from its residents for garbage pickup: and WHEREAS, due to an increase in costs the current fee is insufficient IT IS THEREFORE ORDAINED that:
TITLE 6 WATER AND SEWER; CHAPTER 1 - WATER AND SEWER REGULATIONS; ARTICLE 8 GARBAGE DISPOSAL; SECTION 4 is hereby amended to provide:
Effective for the billing cycle to be billed at the end of June, 2026, the fee for garbage collection shall be $22.00 per month per household;
If a customer requests an extra garbage or recycle bins, an additional fee of 11.00 per month will be char ged for each additional bin.
IT IS FURTHER ORDAINED that this ordinance shall be in full force and effect ive from and after this passage, approval and publication as provided by law; IT IS FURTHER ORDAINED the provision s and sections of the Ordinance shall be deemed to be separable and the invalidity of any portion of any section shall not affect the validity of the remainer.
PASSED BY the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cordova, Rock Island County, Il linois, this 21st day of May, 2026.
Aye s: 3
J. De Porter, B. Roush, G Stubbs Nays: 0
Absent: J. Claus, H. Sothmann /s/ James Boone
James Boone, President
ATTEST: /s/ Colleen Willhite Colleen Willhite, Village Clerk May 26, June 2, 9, 2026
Duncan pitches complete game in rout of West Carroll
Morrison junior had five strikeouts, one walk, four hits allowed
By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com
Morrison junior pitcher Ava Duncan took the reins as the team’s primary pitcher and leadoff hitter this season.
The Fillies earned themselves another No. 1 seed this postseason, but Duncan had yet to start a postseason game in the circle.
While there were some additional nerves, it was mostly smiles as Morrison beat West Carroll 10-0 in six innings in Tuesday’s Class 1A Newman Regional semifinal matchup.
The Fillies (19-6) advance to face fourth-seeded Fulton in Friday’s regional
final at 4:30 p.m. The Steamers had a 4-3 walk-off win over Newman in Tuesday’s nightcap.
Duncan pitched a six-inning complete game with five strikeouts, one walk and four hits allowed. She was also 2 for 4 with two doubles and an RBI.
“I love the pressure,” she said. “Coach [Chelsea] Eads, our coach last year, she always said, ‘pressure is a privilege.’ ”
The ninth-seeded Thunder (3-26) had their leadoff batter reach base on four different occasions, but Duncan and the Fillies made plays when it mattered.
They had three double plays in the win.
“We went all season without rolling a single double-play, and then today we had three,” Duncan said. “I think our defense was really on today, and we knew this team can hit the ball.”
West Carroll was coming off a 5-3 win over Polo on Monday. Cattarina Houz-
BOYS TRACK AND FIELD – ERIE SECTIONAL
enga led WC with two hits.
Morrison broke things open with six runs in the second inning, taking advantage of some defensive miscues by WC. The Fillies had six unearned runs and 10 hits with four walks.
Bella Scachette (two RBIs) had two hits, and Paisley Bush’s RBI single ended the game early. Elle Milnes hit a solo home run, and Allie Anderson drove in another run.
“I think it was a great start for us,” Anderson said. “We’re trying to have a lot of fun like last season. So think coming out and run-ruling the first game sets a good tone for the rest of the season.”
Morrison scored in every inning but the fifth in the win. The Fillies have not allowed more than two runs during their six-game win streak.
“We capitalized on a lot of their errors,” Anderson said. “And we did really good defensively.”
Anderson said the team has had errors of their own during the season, but they figured things out to open the postseason.
“We don’t have room for that anymore, so we’re capitalizing on every single ball,” she said. “Our outfield did great today. Bella Schachette had an amazing catch. We really just put it together.”
Anderson said Duncan has stepped up in the circle this season after her older sister, Bella Duncan, graduated.
“I’ve never seen her get down [in the circle],” she said. “She always keeps good intensity. I love her. We like to have fun out there. She keeps me laughing and always checks on me.”
She said staying loud and engaged in the dugout will be important as games continue to get tougher.
“Stay competitive, just stay alive,” she said. “Defensively, offensively, it’s going to be important to never let down.”
Morrison takes third at Erie sectional; area athletes advance to state
By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com
Morrison senior Brady Anderson admitted he was a bit “rusty” on Wednesday.
He still performed like one of the best sprinters in Class 1A.
Anderson said he was sick all last week after wrapping up a first-place finish in the 200-meter dash at the 1A Erie Sectional on Wednesday. His season-best 200 time of 21.14 is the fourth-best clocking in the state this season in any class, according to Athletic.net results.
He won the 100, 200, and joined relay wins in the 4x100 and 4x200 at the sectional. Anderson is undefeated this season in the 100, 200 and 400 ahead of next week’s state meet at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, which takes place from Thursday through Saturday.
“Just survive and advance to next week,” he said. “I’ve been training since December. I’ve been looking forward to one meet, one meet only. Saturday, the finals. I’m ready.”
Anderson and the defending state champion Mustangs took third at the sectional with 72 points, behind LenaWinslow (92) and Riverdale (91).
Erie-Prophetstown (66.5) was fifth and
Bureau Valley (38.5) was eighth, followed by Amboy (34), Fulton (30), West Carroll (24), Newman (20.5) and Milledgeville (20).
Levi Milder was right behind Anderson as he took third in the 100, second in the 200 and ran on both state-qualifying relays. Josh McDearmon and Koltin Swaim also joined the relay wins.
Anderson, a University of Northern Iowa recruit, said it’s been great having a teammate like Milder to help push one another over the years.
“No off days,” he said. “It’s constant competition every day.
“When you have a teammate like that, it helps push you through the hard days like that, it’s awesome.”
Milder said it means a lot to get back to state, and he doesn’t take it for granted.
“I know a lot of guys come up short of all their dreams and all their goals,” he said. “I know I still have this one last chance to go out there and possibly break the 200 record. And then definitely go out there and try to break our own 4x2 record. And maybe set the 4x1 [record].
“It’s definitely a blessing to be able to come back [to state], and my season’s been pretty healthy.”
He said it’s been like a “brotherhood” with Anderson over the years as a onetwo punch. Milder will continue his track
career at Indian Hills College.
“I can’t improve if I’m just racing myself all the time, you’ve got to have that competition,” he said. “Whether it’s your own teammate or you go out there and race a couple guys that are just as fast as you.
“It’s helped me improve as a person and just caused me to work harder.”
McDearmon also won the 110 hurdles and took third in the 300 hurdles, qualifying in both.
Erie-Prophetstown’s Braeden Punke won the 800 and Lane Decker won the 300 hurdles. Braeden Punke, Gus Schultz, Justin Wainscott and Nathan Punke qualified in the 4x8. Carson Eyrich and Nathan Punke went one-two in the pole vault.
“We’ve been pole vaulting for two or three years together,” Nathan Punke said. “Just constant competition, making each other better. It’s just really fun to compete with him.”
Having a younger brother on the team has also been fun.
“He’s a little faster than me, which is kind of not very fun,” he said. “He works really hard and is just a constant motivator.”
Other area state qualifiers include Newman’s all-junior 4x100 of Rylan Alvarado, Matthew Blackert, Parker
Strommen and Ayden Gutierrez after taking fourth. They also qualified in the 4x200. Alvarado was one of five long jump state qualifiers after taking fourth.
Amboy freshman Ian Hasler qualified in the shot put after taking third and won the discus. Damian Bender was runner-up in the 300 hurdles and also qualified in the long jump after taking third.
Fulton’s Wyatt Connor, CJ Struckman, Mason Bray and Brody Glazier took second in the 4x100 to qualify. They also qualified in the 4x200.
Milledgeville’s Carsten Wade, Draven Zier, Zy Haverland and Parker Krogman qualified in the 4x100. Konner Johnson joined Wade, Haverland and Zier to qualify in the 4x200.
BV’s Andrew Roth qualified in two individual events, taking third in the 110 hurdles and fourth in the 300 hurdles. He also joined Keenyn Richter, Tucker Shane and Morgan Mahnesmith to qualify in the 4x1. Shane, Mahnesmith, Kyle Velazquez and Richter qualified in the 4x200. Alex Gallardo, Kayne Richter, Adrian Gallardo and Maddox Moore qualified in the 4x800.
West Carroll’s Collin Handel took third in the 400 meters and qualified for state. Handel, Jack McIntyre, Lucas Tautz and Jacoby Cropper took second in the 4x400 to qualify.
Fulton’s Germann has walk-off hit at Newman
By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com
Fulton’s Kerby Germann has had quite the freshman year in four different sports.
She is a four-event state qualifier in track and field, a state wrestling qualifier and a second-team IVCA All-State player in volleyball.
She added another clip to the highlight reel in Tuesday’s Class 1A Newman Regional semifinal softball matchup against the Comets.
Germann blooped a walk-off single that scored pinch-runner Peyton Lowery to send the Steamers to a 4-3 victory over Newman after an 0-for-2 start at the plate.
With the win, fourth-seeded Fulton (18-10) advanced to face top-seeded Morrison (19-6) in Friday’s regional final at 4:30 p.m. The Fillies beat West Carroll 10-0 in six innings.
Fulton’s seventh-inning rally started with No. 9 hitter Madison Bolton reaching on an error after laying down a bunt. Germann delivered the winning hit with two outs as Lowery slid past a tag attempt at the plate.
“She’s got great power,” Fulton coach Derek Germann said. “All we were talking the whole time yesterday was hard-hit balls. All we’ve got to do is put it in play. We don’t need home runs.”
It was a shallow fly ball that sealed the win.
Fulton senior Jessa Read went the distance in the circle, scattering eight hits and striking out one in seven innings.
Zoe Kunau gave Fulton a 2-0 lead with a two-out, two-run double in the third inning. She also started the sixth inning with a three-base error after a well-hit line drive was dropped in right field. She tied the game 3-3 after a Germann RBI single.
“Zoe’s a gamer, always has been,” Coach Germann said. “Zoe will always do the right thing, and that’s what’s fun about her. She’s developed from a young ninth-grader playing up to now a really seasoned junior.”
Fulton had to battle back after Newman took a 3-2 lead in the fourth inning. Bostyn Ruch tied the game with a tworun single, and Anna Propheter knocked in Newman’s third run.
Newman sophomore pitcher Gianna Vance helped keep the Comets in it, going the distance. She was saddled with two
unearned runs in the loss.
“Gianna pitched a fantastic game,” Coach Germann said. “She kept us off-balance. She had great plays from Lucy [Oetting] at shortstop.”
Fulton avenged an early-season 10-6 loss to Newman with the win. They did not have a full lineup in that game.
“I think Jessa and Gianna had a real good head-to-head today with Jessa coming out on top,” Coach Germann said. “Situational hitting was nice, and it’s always nice to have a walk-off.”
Fulton won despite being outhit 8-6. Germann and Kunau each had two hits and two RBIs.
Haley Smither scored a run and singled. She said the Steamers stayed relaxed when Newman (11-19) took the lead.
Fulton faced Morrison in the fourth game of the season and fell just short in a 4-1 loss.
“I think our defense has to be really strong,” Smither said, “and we have to
bring our bats.”
Oetting said it was a battle between two good teams.
“Gianna pitched a great game,” she said. “They just got little hits that ended up working in their favor.”
Oetting, who will continue her soft -
ball career at St. Louis University, hopes the team will continue to work hard in the future.
“And keep bringing their A-game and never give up,” she said, “no matter how the season goes.”
Photos by Alex T. Paschal
Fulton’s Kerby Germann celebrates driving in the game winning run against Newman on Tuesday at the Class 1A softball regional at Newman.
Fulton’s Zoe Kunau hauls in a fly ball against Newman on Tuesday during the Class 1A softball regionals at Newman.
TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY
1993: Cleveland’s Carlos Martinez famously hits a ball off Texas outfielder Jose Canseco’s head for a home run.
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Fulton’s Madison Bolton rounds third against Newman Tuesday, May 19, at the Class 1A softball regionals at Newman.
