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American Legion Auxiliary presents Good Deed Awards

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Lady Wolves top Stockton on home court

By Trenten Scheidegger CORRESPONDENT

The Pearl City girls bas ketball squad has had their fair share of ups and downs throughout the young season. After getting off to an 0-3 start, the Wolves managed to pick up their first win of the season with a 40-21 victo ry over the Dakota Indians. Despite dropping their next matchup to the River RidgeScales Mound Wildcats, the Lady Wolves bounced right back with a win over North Boone.

That’s where the Lady Wolves hit another skid as they dropped back-to-back games to Amboy and For reston. Following the loss es, Pearl City held an overall record of 2-6. They had a good opportunity to get back in the win column coming up as they were scheduled to face off with an 0-6 Stockton squad on Saturday, Dec. 3.

The Lady Wolves were able to rely on a hot start in this one. Four different Pearl City athletes managed to score in the first quarter as everyone seemed to be in rhythm early on. It was Brea Musser who led the way in the opening quarter. Musser had seven points, including a first quarter three pointer to help the Wolves take a 13-4 lead into the second quarter.

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The Lady Wolves strug gled to keep that offensive consistency going in the sec ond quarter. They were held to just three points in the quar ter, two of which came from the hands of Ava Bremmer. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks were able to get back in the game as they outscored Pearl City 7-3 in the second. Still, the Lady Wolves took a 16-13 lead into the halftime break.

Pearl City’s offensive struggles continued coming out of the break. Pearl City was held to even fewer points in the third quarter as their only score of the period came from an Elizabeth Dinderman basket. Stockton seized the opportunity by outscoring the Wolves 9-2, giving the Blackhawks their first lead of the game. Heading into the fourth and final quarter the Wolves trailed 22-18.

With the Wolves struggling to hit shots, they knew they would have to find another way to put up offense if they wanted to come back in this one. Fortunately, Pearl City managed to get to the free throw line five times in the fourth, which helped to pro duce some points. Musser hit a pair of free throws in the fourth, while Fallyn Endress and Emma Boyer each hit

ount on

SUBmITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Julia Moore of the Lena American Legion Auxiliary recently presented Good Deed Awards to Teadora and Alaina Goeke of Bloomington. When the two young ladies returned home from vacation, they found out that the garden that had been planted at their school had been vandalized. They immediately jumped on their bikes, organized friends, and restored the garden to its original beauty. They are the daughters of Karl and Stacy Goeke who grew up in the Dakota and Freeport areas.

Eileen (Zink) Hughes, age 76, passed away peacefully at home on Dec. 1, 2022, fol lowing a courageous two-year battle against cancer. Eileen was born Nov. 21, 1946, at their family home in Mass bach, IL to Alvena (Albrecht) and William (Cy) Zink. She married Ronald Hughes on May 20, 1967, at St. John Lu theran Church in Massbach.

Known by many as “the cake lady,” Eileen has made countless, beautifully deco rated, and tasty cakes over the past 50+ years. She en joyed using her many talents to make others happy through cooking, baking, knitting, quilting, and sewing. In the process, she has also inspired and taught many her skills so they, too, could enjoy them.

Mary Bur DeN e Meyer S

Mary Burdene Thomasson

Meyers, age 97, died Nov. 28, 2022. She was born to Leslie and Agnes (Fehr) Thomas son on Aug. 21, 1925, at St. Francis Hospital in Freeport, IL. Burdene attended country schools and graduated from Pearl City High School in 1943. After her father died in 1944, she moved to Lena with her mother. Burdene married Donald Meyers on Jan. 16, 1949. Together they were blessed with five children.

Burdene was a 4-H lead er for the Waddams Busy Bees and an active member of the Lena United Method ist Church. Besides being a homemaker, Burdene worked at Kolb Cheese Company and Kaysers Lena Maid Meats.

She was an active mem ber at St. John Luther an Church, volunteering as treasurer in past years and busy helping with the quilting group who made more than 1,200 fabric masks during the pandemic and col lectively makes about 100 quilts annually for Hospice and veterans’ organizations.

Eileen worked at what is now known as Citizens State Bank in Stockton as a cus tomer service representative for 38 years before retiring in 2011.

Eileen leaves behind her husband of 55 years—Ron, their daughter Janelle (Steve)

She was also a Stockton Hospice vol unteer and served as a caregiver for several individuals in the Lena area.

Burdene is survived by her children; Gary (Marcia) Meyers, Connie (Kevin) Ro bieson, Jim (Betty Shearon) Meyers, all of Lena, Laurin (Jean) Meyers of Monroe, Wi. and John (Nancy) Mey ers of Barneveld, WI. She is also survived by 15 grand children, 34 great grandchil dren and 4 great-great grand children. One sister Marilyn Confer, sister-in-law Anna Meyers and brother-in-law George Hoefer and many

Keeffer of Galena, grand daughters Erin and Elyse Keeffer, her brothers Gerald (Carol) Zink, Norman (Kar en Switzer) Zink, and Eugene Zink, and beloved nieces, nephews, and in-laws. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Alvena Zink. Eileen was also blessed that her neighbors—both in Yankee Hollow and Wood bine—have always been an extended part of her family. Memorial services will be held at St. John Lutheran Church in Massbach (Eliz abeth), IL on Friday, Dec. 9. Visitation begins at 11:30 a.m. with funeral service at 1 p.m. Burial will be at St. John Lutheran Church Cemetery. A memorial has been estab lished in Eileen’s memory.

Nore W. SWa NSoN

Nore W. Swanson (III) “Bill”, age 82, of Apple Riv er, IL passed away on Dec. 1, 2022, at his home. Bill was born on March 17, 1940, in Chicago, IL to Nore and Ger trude (Roth) Swanson. He married Helen (Higgins) An son on Dec. 27, 1976, in Ga lena, IL.

Bill farmed for many years, and he also ran a resort in Canada. He loved his fam ily and his dog, Honey Bee. He loved to hunt and fish. Bill was always there if his chil dren ever needed anything.

Bill leaves behind his wife Helen, of 45 years, their chil dren; Christine (Tod) Chap man, Nore “Bill” Swanson IV, Steven (Denise) Swanson,

DoNa lD W Hook

Teri (Don) Abbott, and Laura “Myke”Ben nett, 17 grandchil dren, 30 great-grand children; brother, Robert Swanson; sisters, Di ane Driscoll, Suzanne Swan son, and Nancy (Tom) Swan son, special friends Duane and Judy Maupin, Tim and Connie Maupin, and Tammy and Brian Albrecht and his beloved dog, Honey Bee. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, sister Barbara, broth er Michael, children Jeffrey Anson and Pamela Smith, a grandson Ryan Bennett, two

nieces, nephews, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, hus band Donald in 2015, her twin brother Burdette Thomasson, brother Eldon Thomasson and sisters Jean Harnish and Joan Stake.

Funeral Service took place at 11 a.m. on Saturday Dec. 3, at the Lena United Methodist Church in Lena, IL with a vis itation from 9 a.m. until time of service. Pastor Keri Rains berger officiated the service.

Burial took place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport, IL. Donations can be made in her name at The Le-Win Food Pantry, Lena United Methodist Church, or a charity of choice. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.leamonfh. com.

Donald W Hook, age 86, of Stockton passed away Nov. 26, 2022, at Freeport. He was born Nov. 23, 1936, to Mar jorie W. Schneider Hook and Alvin C. Hook. Don’s moth er passed away when he was two years old, and he was raised by his grandparents Cora and William Schneider and Kate and Ralph Hook. Don married Betty McPeek on Feb. 10, 1957, at the Stockton Methodist Church.

Don was a farmer all his life and helped his wife with her catering business. Don

graduated from Lanark High School in 1954. He was a mem ber of Wes ley United Methodist Church, but having lived close to Berreman Church of God, attended there for 65 years. He was also a member of Carroll County Farm Bu reau, the Chester White Swine Association and the American Hereford Association. Don served on the Berreman Town

great-grandchildren Jameson Swanson and Navaeh Run berg, and a son-in-law Glenn Bennett.

A memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022, at the Leamon Funeral Home in Lena, IL. A visitation will be from 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022, at the Leamon Funeral Home in Lena, IL. Pastor Kevin Cernek will officiate the services. Cremation rites have been accorded. A luncheon will be held at the Lena American Legion following the services. A memorial has been established in his memory. Condolences may be sent to the family at www. leamonfh.com.

ship Board for several years. Donald is survived by his wife Betty and son Donn R Hook, Burbank, California. He was preceded in death by one daughter, his parents, grand parents, in-laws and one sisterin-law.

Visitation was held Friday Dec. 2 from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Hermann Funeral Home, Stockton with a private burial later. A memorial fund has been established for the Berreman Church of God.

Condolences may be shared at www.hermannfuneralhome. com.

FHN 2022 Community Festival of Trees

Take some time this holi day season to view the FHN Community Festival of Trees entrants at the Freeport Public Library or online, and vote for your favorite through Satur day, Dec. 10.

The FHN Community Festival of Trees invites notfor-profit organizations from across the area to decorate holiday trees, with cash prizes

awarded by a panel of judges and the public. This year’s trees also can be viewed on line via a link at www.fhn. org/festivaloftrees. The Com munity Festival of Trees is on display free at the Freeport Public Library through Thurs day, Dec. 22. The Freeport Public Library is located at 100 E. Douglas Street in Free port.

The public is encour aged to vote for the People’s Choice Award winner at the library or online at the link above through Saturday, Dec. 10. The top vote-getter for People’s Choice will take

home $500. The second-place award for People’s Choice is $200 and the third-place Peo ple’s Choice award is $100. Ballots are available at the library and votes will be tak en through the end of the li brary’s operating hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10. The formal panel of judges will award three priz es, as well: First prize is $500, second prize is $300 and third prize is $150.

For more information on the Community Festival of Trees or any of the FHN Festival of Trees events, visit www.fhn. org/festivaloftrees.

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Good Shepherd Lutheran

All are invited to worship at Good Shepherd Luther an Church, 118 E. Mason St. Lena, IL. on Sunday, Dec. 11 at 9:30 a.m. for Third Sunday of Advent. The reading will be from Matthew 11:2-11.

On Tuesday, Dec. 13 Bible Study group will meet at 11 a.m.

On Wednesday, Dec. 14 Peace Corps Quilting Group will meet from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Quilts provide warmth and love to people in the commu nity and The Lutheran World Relief. Materials and helping hands to tie and sew quilts are always appreciated. No quilt ing experience necessary.

Please contact the church office at 815-369-5552 with any questions related to these upcoming events.

St. John’s Lutheran Church

Join St. John’s Lutheran Church in Pearl City every Sunday, at 9 a.m. for Worship, Sunday School and Commu nion. Worship is led by Pastor Shellie Knight. Join the fun for monthly dominoes and card games, Men’s Breakfast, and Women’s gatherings. St. John’s also continually serves the local community with the Healthy Wolves Backpack pro gram.

The community grace meal will be held on Dec. 18. The menu is ham, baked pota to, green bean casserole, Jell-O, and dessert. All meals will be curbside pick-up with reserva tions due by 5 p.m. on Thurs day, Dec. 15 to the church of fice. Orders can be placed by calling 815-443-2215. Curb side pick-up is available Sun

day, Dec. 18, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Funding for the Grace Meal is provided by a grant from the Freeport Community Foundation and Thrivent.

St. John’s Lutheran Church is located at 229 S First St., Pearl City, IL.

Pearl City First United Methodist Church

Join the Community Christ mas Dinner at Pearl City First United Methodist Church, 411 S Main St., on Sunday, Dec. 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dine in, carry-out and delivery (with in the Pearl City area) will be available. To reserve a meal please call the church at 815443-2177. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Trinity Lutheran Church

Trinity Lutheran Church in Derinda will host Christ

mas in the Valley Brass Quin tet on Dec. 23 at 6:30 p.m. A five-piece brass quintet per formance will include festive Christmas Classics.

Trinity Church is located at 8393 S Derinda Road, Eliza beth IL. All are welcome. For directions or additional infor mation please call 815-2914673.

Apple River Community Churches

Bring the whole family to watch Christmas from the perspective of the shepherds, Mary, and Joseph on Thurs day, Dec. 15 at 6:30 p.m. En joy popcorn and other goodies while you watch, and door prizes will be awarded.

This event will be held at the Apple River Event Center and is sponsored the Apple River Community Churches –

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, First Presbyterian Church and Apple River United Methodist Church. There is no charge to attend. Please contact Pastor Libby Rutherford at rutherford. libby@gmail.com or 815-9901428 with any questions.

Stockton CWA

The Concerned Women for America (CWA), Stockton Group, will meet on Wednes day, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. at Cal vary Church in Stockton. The CWA is a group of concerned Christian women who meet to be informed, to pray, and act. The CWA is a non-denom inational group that is pro-fam ily, pro-life, pro-religious free dom, pro-national sovereignty, and against sexual exploitation.

Any interested woman is welcome to join us. If you have any questions or need

a ride, please contact Carol Rowe at 815-947-2122 or Pam Hess at 815-947-9154.

A Prayer Drive is also held on the first Monday of each month starting at 1 p.m. in Stockton. Those interested meet at the village parking lot by the ambulance build ing on Queen Street and car pool around town, covering the town in roughly 60 min utes. The next Prayer Drive will be held on Jan. 2.

Apple River United Methodist Church

Apple River UMC’s Dec. 13 Young at Heart gathering will feature Sandy Wolfman and Becky Riedl. Wolfman and Riedl will take attend ees on a behind-the-scenes look at Oak Hill Weddings and lead a Christmas sing-along.

The event starts at 1:30 p.m.

The Carroll County Thrift Shop

The Carroll County Help Center Thrift Shop will hold Santa’s Bag Sale Fridays and Saturdays in December. Everything is a “Buck-a-Bag” with a limit of five bags per person.

The Thrift Shop, located at 126 South 4th St. Savanna, is celebrating 50 years of ser vice to Carroll County. The shop is open Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Thrift Shop will be close Dec. 24 through the rest of the year, and will re-open on Jan. 6. The shop will not be accepting any donations of used items after Dec. 23 until it reopens on Jan. 6, 2023.

Highland Music Department holds instrumental Holiday Concert

The Highland Communi ty College Concert Band and Orchestra will hold their joint Holiday Concert at 7 p.m. Fri day, Dec. 9 in the Fine Arts Theatre in the Ferguson Fine Arts Center, 2998 W. Pearl City Rd., Freeport, Ill.

The concert band, under the direction of Scott Stich, will be playing many tradi tional Christmas Carols — plus a Hanukkah song. The community is welcome to this free concert. For more on Fine Arts programs at Highland,

visit highland.edu.

donation, all of which will go to local food pantries.

FHN,

Classic Cinemas presenting holiday movies

FHN and Classic Cinemas Lindo Theatre in Freeport will present two holiday movies as part of this year’s FHN Festi val of Trees.

The FHN Holiday Family Movie, Polar Express (G), will be presented free of charge at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10 at the Lindo Theatre, 100 E. Douglas Street in Free port. Seating is limited and there are no advance ticket sales. All children who attend will receive a special gift.

Ed Finch and Alan Wenzel will host two presentations of The Bishop’s Wife on Wednes day, Dec. 14 at the Lindo The atre. The public is invited to showings at 1 p.m. and/or 7 p.m. – admission can be food items or a freewill monetary

American Legion Auxiliary

The December meeting of the American Legion Auxil iary will meet on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at the Lena American Legion Home at 6 p.m. The meeting will include wrap ping gifts and making tray favors for hospitalized veter ans. Dues will also be collect ed. New members are always welcome. Junior members will be meeting on Dec. 10 at 10 a.m. at the American Legion Home for a both fun project and a service proj ect. Guests are welcome to attend. Andrea Karnatz and Dawn Spinhirne will oversee the social hour.

Community Blood Drive

The American Red Cross will host two community

blood drives in the area. A drive will be held at Warren High School on Tuesday, Dec. 6 in the gymnasium from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The drive in Elizabeth will be held on Thursday, Dec. 15 at the Community building located at 402 North West Street from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Appointments are encouraged and can be made by calling 1-800-REDCROSS or by visiting red crossblood.org

McConnel Historical Society Cookie Walk

The annual Cookie Walk will be held on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. The event will take place at the historical society located at 202 E. Main Street. There will be a variety of cookies and candy for sale, as well as the opportunity to visit with Santa from 2 to 4 p.m. All kids will receive a small gift.

From Lena’s Kitchen

stuffed mushrooms are a great hit at any holiday celebration.

3 T. lemon juice

2 T. chopped fresh chives

1 C. shredded carrots

½ C. finely chopped onion

The not so skinny cook

The weather certainly has been up and down. One minute we are freezing and trying not to be blown away, and the next minute we have some 45-degree temperatures. No one can say that we have boring weather in Northwest Illinois. This week we are treading our way into holi day cooking. There are some good appetizers, a Christmas Salad, some Christmas cook ies, a warm soup, and an in teresting side. Have a great week cooking.

Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

Holiday open houses give us a chance to try new appe tizers. This one has the cran berry theme going for it once again. It is easy to make and is great on crackers.

1 pkg. (8 oz.) cream cheese

½ C. dried cranberries, chopped

½ C. chopped dried apri cots

1 t. grated orange zest Assorted crackers

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, cranberries, apricots, and orange zest until blended. Chill until serving. Place on a glass serving plate or a pretty bowl. Serve with crackers.

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

If you are into a more com plicated appetizer, these crab

I have used imitation crab cut up in small pieces if you don’t want to use the canned crab. I like this recipe because you don’t have to buy the large mushrooms that are more expensive. Keep the stems to use in casseroles or soups. These are best served warm.

18 medium fresh mush rooms

1 can (6 oz.) crabmeat, drained, flaked and cartilage removed

1/3 C. mayonnaise

3 T. seasoned breadcrumbs

2 T. grated Parmesan cheese

1 garlic clove, minced

Fresh parsley for garnish

Remove stems from mush rooms and store them for an other use. Set caps aside. In a small bowl combine the crab, mayo, breadcrumbs, cheese, and garlic. Stuff into mush room caps. Place on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 400 un til mushroom are tender, 30 to 35 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley.

Christmas Pasta Salad

You might be looking for a great salad for Christmas. The festive colors in this pasta salad will make any holiday table complete. The pesto, peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes give it its Christmas colors. It will feed a crowd of eight. Save this one for the new year too.

2 heads broccoli (about 1½ lbs.) cut into florets

1 lb. rigatoni or any short tubular pasta

½ C. plus 2 T. olive oil

1½ C. baby spinach

½ C. grated Parmesan cheese

¼ C. almonds

¼ C. packed fresh basil leaves

2 roasted red peppers, drained and sliced (about 1½ C.

½ C. sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and thinly sliced

1 C. shredded provolone cheese

2 T. white wine vinegar

Bring a large pot of gener ously salted water to a boil. Fill a large bowl with cold water. Drop the broccoli into the boiling water and cook until crisp, tender, and bright green, about 2 minutes. Re move with a slotted spoon and plunge into cold water to stop the cooking. Let sit until cool, then drain and set aside.

Return the water in the pot to a boil and cook the pasta ac cording to package directions for al dente. Drain in a col ander and transfer to a large bowl. Toss with 2 T. olive oil to coat evenly and refrigerate until cooled completely, about 10 minutes.

Add the remaining 1/3 C. olive oil to a blender with the spinach, Parmesan, almonds, basil, lemon juice, chives, and ¼ C. water; puree until completely smooth. Pour the pesto over the top of the pasta and add the reserved broccoli, red peppers, sun-dried toma toes, provolone, vinegar, and 1 t. salt. Toss gently until well combined. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve up to 4 hours.

Chicken Wild Rice Soup

This wild rice soup is easy to make. I have several wild rice recipes that are good, but they are time consuming and this one is not. Use the rotis serie chicken; you can cut ev erything up and cook the rice the day before. Try this easy way to serve a warm meal.

2 qt. chicken broth

½ lb. fresh mushrooms, chopped 1 C. finely chopped celery

1 t. chicken bouillon gran ules

1 t. parsley flakes ¼ t. garlic powder

¼ t. dried thyme

¼ C. butter, cubed ¼ C. flour

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1/2 C. dry white wine or ad ditional chicken broth

3 C. cooked wild rice

2 C. cubed cooked chicken

In a large saucepan com bine broth, mushrooms, cel ery, carrots, onions, bouillon granules, parsley flakes, gar lic powder, and dried thyme. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cover to simmer for 30 minutes.

In a Dutch oven, melt but ter, stir in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in broth mixture. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Whisk in soup and wine. Add rice and chicken, heat through. Serve with a piece of crusty bread.

Ranch Pasta

This dish can be used as a side or a main dish. If you have non-meat eaters, this is a dish that both meat eaters and vegetarians will eat (veg ans won’t eat it because it has sour cream and ranch dress ing). The spinach adds flavor and gives it color.

1½ C. uncooked bow tie pasta

2 C. shredded Italian cheese blend

1¼ C. grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 C. (8 oz.) sour cream

1 C. Buttermilk Ranch dressing

1 pkg. (10 oz.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry or 2 C. chopped fresh spinach

2 slices day old French bread cut into ½ inch thick slices

1 T. olive oil

1 t. grated lemon zest

1 t. dried parsley flakes

¼ t. garlic salt

Preheat oven to 350. Cook

pasta according to package directions. In a large bowl, mix Italian cheese blend, 1 C. Parmesan cheese, sour cream, and Ranch dressing. Drain pasta; add to cheese mixture. Fold in spinach. Transfer to a greased 9 x 13 baking dish.

Tear French bread into pieces, place in a food pro cessor. Cover and pulse until crumbs form. Toss breadcrumbs with oil, lemon zest, parsley, garlic salt and remaining ¼ C. Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over pasta mixture. Bake covered for 25 minutes. Uncover; bake until golden brown and bubbly, 5 to 10 minutes.

Crunch ApricotCoconut Balls

It is cookie time! These no bake cookies are a pret ty addition to any Christmas cookie platter, plus they are a different kind of cookie with the apricots.

1¼ C. sweetened shredded coconut

1 C. dried apricots, finely chopped

2/3 C. chopped pecans

½ C. sweetened condensed milk

½ C. powdered sugar

In a small bowl, combine coconut, apricots, and pe cans. Add condensed milk; mix well. The mixture will be sticky. Shape into 1¼ inch balls and roll in powdered sugar. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This recipe makes about 2 dozen cookies.

Peppermint Mint Meltaways

These cookies are supposed to melt in your mouth, so try them and see if the advertising is true. They look pretty on a plate and make a great host ess gift. Cover them with red plastic Saran Wrap on a pretty tray, and you are good to go.

1 C. butter, softened

½ C. powdered sugar

½ t. peppermint extract

1¼ C. flour

½ C. cornstarch

Frosting:

2 T. butter, softened

2 T. 2% milk

¼ t. peppermint extract

2 to 3 drops of red food col oring

1½ C. powdered sugar

½ C. crushed peppermint candies.

cookie sheet. Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until bottoms are light brown. Remove from pans to wire racks. Cool com pletely.

In a small bowl, beat butter until creamy. Beat in milk, extract, and food coloring. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth. Spread over cookies; sprinkle with crushed candies. Store in an airtight container. This recipe makes about 2½ dozen cook ies.

Final Thoughts

We certainly had an exciting Thanksgiving weekend. There were a few of us that were left to hold the fort down in our Le na-Winslow communities and many of us were glued to the television. Congratulations to our 2022 Panther Football team for their first-place champion ship two years in a row. They worked hard and had a lot to live up to. They certainly gave us a lot of great celebrations this fall. The same could be said for the Aquin Girls’ Volleyball team. They also brought back a first-place trophy to our little corner of the world.

I have told this story before that when I went to the Univer sity of Illinois, people would ask me where I was from. I always told them I was from a little town that they probably had never heard of—Pearl City. They, of course said, no they had never heard of it. I asked them if they had heard of Rock ford (it was then the second largest city in Illinois), and they said no they hadn’t heard of Rockford. I said had they heard of Chicago. Yes, of course, they knew Chicago. I said I didn’t live anywhere near there. I lived 200 miles straight west, 15 miles from the Wisconsin border, and 40 miles from the Iowa border. They looked at me as if to say, “Do you really live in Illinois?” Well after this fall maybe a lot more people know where we live. Thanks

Panther football and Aquin vol leyball for helping people know we are pretty special in our little corner of the world!

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Dine in, Carry out & Delivery (within the Pearl City area) will be available. If you would like to call ahead and reserve a meal, please call the church at 815-443-2177

Preheat oven to 350. In a small bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in extract. In another bowl, whisk flour and cornstarch until blended; gradually beat into creamed mixture. Refrigerate, cov ered, 30 minutes or until firm enough to handle. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place 2 inches apart on an ungreased

My tree is decorated and lit. I even have some outside lights—not many, so don’t drive past my house expecting a large display. My little elf helpers have me in pretty good shape. I hope to start baking some Christmas cookies be cause after decorating it is time to bake. If you have some good cookie recipes, we would like you to share them. If you have some good holiday recipes, we would like to see them too. Or if you have enjoyed this column for many years, let me know that too. You can contact us in person, by mail at From Lena’s Kitchens, Shopper’s Guide at 240 W. Main St. or email us at scoopshopper@rvpublishing. com.

Our Area Churches Welcome You

APPLE RIVER UMC

102 E. Baldwin St., P.O. Box 188, Apple River, IL 61001

Pastor Libby Rutherford (815) 990-1428 Church (815) 594-2223

• Sunday Worship – 9 a.m.

• Bible Study - Every Monday 9 a.m.

Friendly Folks - Casual Attire - Join Us!

CALVARY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

315 W. Maple St., Stockton, IL 61085

Pastor Jonathan Singleton (815) 947-2414 or (815) 947-2522

E-Mail: calvaryum@yahoo.com

• Sunday Worship – 10:00 a.m.

• Sunday School – 8:45 a.m.

• Communion and Potluck every 1st Sunday

• Wednesday Night Bible Study - 6:30 p.m.

• Sat. Youth Group - 6 - 8 p.m.

You may find our facebook page and weekly messages by searching for “Calvary United Methodist Stockton Illinois on facebook.com You are welcome! Please visit us!

CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH ELCA STOCKTON

600 N. Main St., Stockton

Pastor Chrissy Salser (815) 988-9450

E-Mail: clc600@mediacombb.net

Find us on Facebook at ChristOnMainSt

• Worship times: Saturday, 5:30 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m.

• Sunday School: Sunday, 9 a.m.

EBENEZER – SALEM UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST P.O. Box 102, Pearl City, IL 61062

Currently served by Guest Speakers

See Facebook or call 815-291-1965

• Sunday Worship: Currently 8:30 a.m. (may vary)

Services alternate monthly at 2 locations

• Dec. worship is at Ebenezer-UCC Church 5421 S. Stone Church Road

EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH OF LENA

720 N. Freedom Street, Lena, IL 61048 815-369-5591

Rev. Scott Wilson, Assoc. Pastor of Youth

• Adult bible study and Children’s Sunday School - 8:45 a.m.

• Sunday Morning Worship Service and Children’s Church/Nursery – 10:00 a.m.

• Awana Wednesdays at 6 p.m. (Sept. - April)

• Pastor’s weekly sermons at www. lenafreechurch.org

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 411 S. Main Street, PO Box 236, Pearl City, IL 61062 • (815) 443-2177 email: pearlcityumc@gmail.com Website: pearlcityumc.org Find us on facebook at www.facebook.com/pcumcil

Pastor Doug Carroll (815) 541-3159

• Sunday Worship – 8:00 a.m.

• Sunday School – during worship after the children’s message

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 309 S. Main Street, Elizabeth, IL 61028 email: firstumcofelizabeth@gmail.com

Pastor Roger Bronkema 815-291-6261 email: rbronkema18@gmail.com

• Sunday Worship - 8:30 a.m.

• Women’s Faith Group1st Tuesday monthly - 9:30 a.m.

We are handicapped accessible Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/fumcelizabeth

GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH

118 East Mason Street, Lena, IL 61048

Pastor Miho Yasukawa (815) 369-5552

• Sunday Worship – 9:30 a.m.

• Sunday School – 10:45 a.m. (Sept. - May)

• Piece Corps Quilters –Wednesdays at 8:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

GRACE BIBLE CHURCH OF WOODBINE

1904 S. Vel Tera Road, Elizabeth, IL 61028

Pastor Michael Burdett (815) 858-3843

• Sunday Worship – 10:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

• Sunday School – 9:30 a.m.

• Prayer meeting – Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.

Sunday services broadcasted at 11:30 a.m. on Radio WCCI 100.3 FM

HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CHURCH

223 E. Front Avenue, Stockton, IL 61085

Father Mike Morrissey (815) 947-2545

• Saturday Evening Mass – 4:30 p.m.

• Sunday Mass – 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

• Reconciliation Saturday – 3:30 - 4:15 p.m.

• Parish Hall for Rent – Seats 200

LENA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

118 West Mason Street, Lena, IL 61048

Pastor Keri Rainsberger (815) 369-5291

• Sunday Worship – 9:00 a.m.

• Sunday School – 10:30 a.m.

• Daily Dial-A-Devotion 815-369-4411

MARTINTOWN COMMUNITY CHURCH

W8996 Lena St., Martintown, WI 53522 (1 mile north of Winslow, IL)

Pastor Kevin Cernek • 608-558-0974

• Sunday Worship – 8 & 10:30 a.m. Worship inside or watch from the parking lot on the jumbotron

• Sunday School for all ages – 9:30 a.m.

• Sunday Youth - 6 p.m.

• Tuesday Bible Study - 10:30 a.m.

• Thursday Prayer & Bible Study - 6 p.m.

McCONNELL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 211 Hulbert Rd. P.O. Box 97, McConnell, IL 61050

http://www.gbgm-umc.org/mcconnellumc

Email: info@McConnellUMC.org

“Like” us on Facebook

Pastor Rev. Doug Carroll (815) 541-3159

• Sunday Worship – 9:30 a.m.

• KidZone: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

1st & 3rd Thursday - monthly

* We are handicapped accessible

SALEM UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

8491 West Salem Road, Lena, IL 61048

(Turn on Salem Road at Eleroy Rest Stop) (815) 369-4511

Pastor Christopher Ham

• Sunday Worship – 10:00 a.m.

SCHAPVILLE ZION PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

635 East Schapville Road, Elizabeth, IL 61028

Pastor Dottie Morizzo (815) 845-2272 Cell (815) 238-0670 www.schapvillezion.org

• Sunday Worship Service – 10:00 a.m.

• Sunday School – 10:00 a.m.

• Bible Study Classes Available

SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS LUTHERAN CHURCH 536 E. Schapville Road, Scales Mound, IL 61054

Church number (815) 845-2061 Rev. James Mehltretter Website: www.shepherdofhill.com

• Sunday Worship – 8:00 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.

• Sunday School (Sept. – May) – 8:45 a.m.

• Holy Communion is celebrated weekly.

ST. ANN CATHOLIC CHURCH 608 East Railroad, Warren, IL 61087

Father Skrobutt (815) 745-2312

• Sunday Mass – 8:00 a.m.

• Reconciliation Sunday – 7:30 - 7:50 a.m.

ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod 625 Country Lane Drive, Lena, IL 61048

Rev. Rick Bader (815) 369-4035

• Saturday Evening Worship – 5:30 p.m.

• Sunday Worship – 8:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

• Blast Program at 9:00 a.m.

• High School & Adult Sunday School at 9:15 a.m.

ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

Evangelical Lutheran Church of America 229 S. First St., Pearl City, IL 61062 www.stjohnspearlcity.org 815-443-2215

• Sunday Morning Worship – 9:00 a.m.

• Christian Education for all Ages - 10:15 a.m. Handicapped Accessible

ST. JOHN EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH

8315 S. Massbach Road, Elizabeth, IL 61028

Pastor David Russell Church: 815-589-3367

• Sunday Worship – 10:00 a.m. “Celebrating 165 Years of Faith”

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH

105 West Webster, Apple River, IL 61001

Father Skrobutt (815) 745-2312

• Saturday Mass – 6:00 p.m.

• Reconciliation Saturday – 5:30 – 5:50 p.m.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH

410 West Lena Street, Lena, IL 61048

Father Skrobutt (815) 369-2810

• Saturday Mass – 4:00 p.m.

• Sunday Mass – 10:00 a.m.

• Reconciliation Saturday – 3:30 – 3:50 p.m.

ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN CHURCHKENT

The Little Church with a Big Heart 1334 Sunnyside Road, Kent, IL 61044 1/2 mile north on Kent Road

• Sunday Worship – 9:30 a.m.

• Holy Communion every Sunday

• Women Meet at 9 a.m. on the 2nd Sunday

• Chair Lift to Sanctuary

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH ELCA

209 Clinton St., P.O. Box 445, Warren, IL 61087

Vicar Michelle Knight (815)745-3444

www.stpaulswarren.org

• Saturday Worship – 5:00 p.m.

• Sunday Worship – 10:00 a.m.

• Sunday School – 10:00 a.m.

WARREN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Corner of Water & Jefferson St., Warren, IL Pastor Roger Bronkema (815) 291-6261 email: rbronkema18@gmail.com

• Sunday Worship – 9:30 a.m.

• Adult Sunday School before Worship

• Children Sunday School - During the service

Communion Every First Sunday

* Handicapped Accessible

WESLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Corner of Hudson & Benton St., Stockton, IL 61085

Pastor Doug Carroll (815) 541-3159

• Sunday Worship – 11 a.m.

• Adult Bible Studies Available

• Communion Every 1st Sunday

• First Sunday potluck following church services.

Find us on website StocktonWUMC.org or Facebook-Stockton Wesley United Methodist Church

* Handicapped Accessible

WILLOW UNITED METHODIST

6522 S. Willow Road, Stockton, IL 61085

Pastor Cheryl Carroll (815) 541-7020

• Weekly Sunday Worship – 9:30 a.m. with community fellowship following

• Sunday School – 11 a.m. www.willowfolkfestival.com

WINSLOW GRACE BIBLE CHURCH

197 Carver Street, Winslow, IL 61089

Pastor Robert Patin (815) 230-1862 608-669-5770

• Sunday Worship – 10:45 a.m.

• Sunday School – 9:45 a.m.

YELLOW CREEK CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN

12602 W. Dublin Road, Pearl City, IL

Pastor Ellis Boughton • 815-864-2049

Email: ellis.boughton@live.com

• Sunday Services – 10:00 a.m.

• Sunday School – 9:15 a.m. (when available)

ZION COMMUNITY CHURCH 10100 W. Sabin Church Rd., Pearl City, IL 61062

Pastor Wayne Fischer • 815-266-6260

Pastor Chip Sohl • 815-541-1425

• Sunday Worship Service – 9:00 a.m.

• Children’s Church - during church service

• Prayer Shawl Knitting Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

• Bible Study Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.

church listed on the church page.

Pearl City students in action

shots at the charity stripe as well. The Lady Wolves man aged to put up as many points in the fourth quarter as they did in the entire first half with 16.

It was a team effort as Endress posted seven fourth quarter points, while Musser had four and both Dinder man and Bremmer had two. It took each and every point to get the win in this one as Pearl City pulled off the comeback for the 34-29 vic

tory.

Musser led the team in scoring with 11 points, while Endress finished the game with nine. Bremmer was next up with six points and Dinderman was right behind her with five.

The Lady Wolves will be back in action on Thursday, Dec. 8 when they play host to the Pecatonica Indians. Peca tonica will be a tough test for the Wolves as they currently hold a 5-2 overall record.

Pearl City Junior High students enjoyed a pre sentation from Debbie Steinbach from Ag in the Classroom. Students learned about properties of cranberries, aspects of cranberry farming, and the health benefits associated with cranberries. They also completed a challenge in which they had to build a raft that would support the weight of various items. This group of 7th grade boys was the only group to successfully build the raft!

(Right) Pearl City’s Elementary PE teacher, Miss Collins, makes fitness fun with a little friendly competition. Elementary students recently competed in a Turkey Trot in PE class. The fourth graders averaged the most laps per student during this 5-day event, and therefore claimed the first Turkey Trot trophy. Together, the third through sixth grade students ran over 150 miles during the event. Congratulations to our amazing students!

Stockton Park House

submitted photo Rock Valley Publishing

Pearl City 4th grader Welden Snetcher with his display of the Seminole tribe.

submitted photos Rock Valley Publishing

Pearl City students in action

submitted photo Rock Valley Publishing Pearl City 4th graders presented their Native Ameri can projects to students in 3rd through 6th grade. Each student studied a Native American tribe and created an informative slideshow and a triarama. Parents, friends, and family members were invited to come in and at tend the presentations. Pictured is Emily Medina who proudly shows her project on the Arapaho.

Stateline Quiz Bowl

The Pearl City High School academic team participated in the Stateline Quiz Bowl in Rockford on Sunday, Nov. 27. The episode will air the weekend of Jan. 7 and 8. Students (left to right) included Nick Polizzi, Kyle Niehaus, Jacob Lieb, Georgia Shallenberger, Dylan Olvera, and Kyleigh Gentz.

submitted photo Rock Valley Publishing

Rylen Hofmaster presents his triarama to 3rd graders, Beckett Pauley and Oliver Plager.

submitted photo Rock Valley Publishing

Pearl City students participated in CareerTEC’s annual Manufacturing Day event. Students toured Tri-Star Met als and various programs available through Highland Community College. Students were also given the opportu nity to participate in a career fair at Highland. This event hopes to promote manufacturing career opportunities in the area as well as exposing students to career options that they may have not considered prior to the event.

submitted photo Rock Valley Publishing

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

JO DAVIESS COUNTYGALENA, ILLINOIS FIRST NATIONAL BANK AND TRUST COMPANY Plaintiff, -v.-

PAMELA KAY ATILANO A/K/A PAMELA K. ATILANO et al Defendant 2021 CH 39

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale en tered in the above cause on January 13, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Cor poration, will at 1:30 PM on December 23, 2022, at the office of Vincent Roth Toepfer & Leinen PC, 11406 U.S. Route 20 W, Galena, IL, 61036, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

LOT 80 IN HAW THORNE UNIT OF BRANIGER’S APPLE CANYON LAKE SUB DIVISION, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THERE OF RECORDED IN JO DAVIESS COUNTY, IL LINOIS. SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF JO DAVIESS, IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS.

Commonly known as 9A80 EVERGREEN DRIVE, APPLE RIVER, IL 61001

Property Index No. 4318-009-080-00

The real estate is im proved with a residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by cer tified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Res idential Property Munici pality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or frac tion thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certi fied funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor ac quiring the residential real

LEGAL NOTICES

estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate tax es, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is of fered for sale without any representation as to qual ity or quantity of title and without recourse to Plain tiff and in “AS IS” con dition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the pur chaser will receive a Cer tificate 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 infor mation.

If this property is a con dominium unit, the pur chaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Con dominium 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 purchas er of the unit at the fore closure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the as sessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOME OWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POS SESSION, IN ACCOR DANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE IL LINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driv er’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the fore closure sale room in Cook County and the same iden tification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corpo ration conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, exam ine the court file, CODI

LIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONT AGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-

SALE

You can also visit The Ju dicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONT AGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-21-03192

Attorney ARDC No. 00468002

Case Number: 2021 CH 39 TJSC#: 42-4187

NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Prac tices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collec tor attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2021 CH 39 I3207313

(Published in The Scoop Today Nov. 23, 30 & Dec. 7, 2022) 428742

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT JO DAVIESS COUNTYGALENA, ILLINOIS U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.ELAINE L. MILLER et al Defendant 2022 FC 7

NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale en tered in the above cause on July 14, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corpo ration, will at 1:30 PM on January 3, 2023, at the of fice of Vincent Roth Toep fer & Leinen PC, 11406 U.S. Route 20 W, Galena, IL, 61036, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the fol lowing described real es tate:

A PART OF THE SOUTH WEST QUARTER OF

THE NORTH EAST QUARTER OF SECTION TWENTY-FOUR (24) IN TOWNSHIP TWEN TY-NINE (29) NORTH OF RANGE FOUR (4) EAST OF THE 4TH P.M., BEGINNING IN THE SOUTH LINE OF MAIN STREET IN THE VILLAGE OF WARREN AT A POINT 200 FEET WESTERLY FROM THE INTERSECTION OF THE WEST LINE OF LONG STREET AND THE SOUTH LINE OF MAIN STREET, AND RUN NING THENCE SOUTH ERLY PARALLEL WITH LONG STREET TO LAND FORMERLY OWNED BY JOHN D. PLATT, THENCE WEST ERLY ALONG PLATT’S NORTH LINE 200 FEET, THENCE NORTHERLY PARALLEL WITH LONG STREET TO THE SOUTH LINE OF MAIN STREET, THENCE EASTERLY ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF MAIN STREET 200 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING, SITU ATED IN THE COUNTY OF JO DAVIESS AND STATE OF ILLINOIS, WITH THE EXCEP TION OF A TRACT OF LAND IN THE NORTH WEST CORNER OF THE AFORESAID DE SCRIBED PROPERTY MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOL LOWS: BEGINNING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 1, BLOCK 2 OF PHILLIP’S ADDITION TO WAR REN, THENCE SOUTH EASTERLY ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF MAIN STREET 75 FEET, THENCE RUNNING AT RIGHT ANGLES IN A SOUTHWESTERLY DI RECTION PARALLEL WITH THE EAST LINE OF SAID LOT 1, BLOCK 2, PHILLIPS ADDITION 156-1/2 FEET, THENCE RUNNING IN A NORTH WESTERLY DIRECTION PARALLEL WITH THE SOUTH LINE OF MAIN STREET 75 FEET TO A POINT ON THE EAST LINE OF SAID LOT 1, THENCE IN A NORTH EASTERLY DIRECTION ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID LOT ONE, 1561/2 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING, SITU ATED IN THE VILLAGE OF WARREN, COUNTY OF JO DAVIESS AND

STATE OF ILLINOIS.

SUBJECT TO COVE NANTS, RESTRICTIONS AND EASEMENTS OF RECORD, IF ANY.

Commonly known as 411 W. MAIN ST., WARREN, IL 61087

Property Index No. 4321-001-147-00

The real estate is im proved with a residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by cer tified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Res idential Property Munici pality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or frac tion thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certi fied funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor ac quiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate tax es, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is of fered for sale without any representation as to qual ity or quantity of title and without recourse to Plain tiff and in “AS IS” con dition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the pur chaser will receive a Cer tificate 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 infor mation.

If this property is a con dominium unit, the pur chaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Con dominium 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 purchas er of the unit at the fore closure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the as sessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOME OWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POS SESSION, IN ACCOR DANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE IL LINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driv er’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the fore closure sale room in Cook County and the same iden tification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corpo ration conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, exam ine the court file, CODI LIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONT AGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE

You can also visit The Ju dicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONT AGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300

E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-22-01341

Attorney ARDC No. 00468002

Case Number: 2022 FC 7 TJSC#: 42-4264

NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Prac tices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collec tor attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2022 FC 7 I3207905

(Published in The Scoop Today Nov. 30, Dec. 7 & 14, 2022)

Mother of gun violence victim donates cameras to Freeport residents

Robbie Capp, mother of 32-year-old gun violence victim

Justin Capp, raised over $1,700 to purchase 41 surveillance cameras to be distributed to residences in high crime areas throughout Freeport. Of the 41 donated cameras, 18 have been handed over to the Freeport Po lice Department to distribute.

The Freeport Police Depart ment will distribute the cameras on a first-come first-serve basis at 320 West Exchange Street. The donated cameras are easy to install and require an internet subscription and a smartphone to operate.

Several cameras have al ready been installed on South

Letters to Santa

It is that time of year again! If interested in featuring students’ letters to Santa this Christmas season, please email typed letters to scoopshopper@rvpublishing. com. To be featured in the Dec. 14 edition of the paper, please submit letters no later than Dec. 9. Letters for the Dec. 21 paper must be submitted on or before Dec. 14. While an effort will be made to include each submission, printing letters is based on space availability.

Float Avenue, West American, West Iroquois, West Pleasant, and East Illinois Street as part of the #StoppingCrimeWithJustin Capp fundraising initiative to increase surveillance.

With a goal of installing at least one camera on every street in Freeport, Robbie Capp adds on the fundraising page, “I am hoping that each year at the time of Justin’s murder, we can con tinue to help fight crime.” “I am sorry for Ms. Capp’s loss,” says Freeport City Manager Randy Bukas. “I commend her and am inspired to see her involvement in trying to help curb the tide of violence. It’s through citizen initiatives and partnerships like this that we can make Freeport a safer place to live.”

LEGAL NOTICES

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT FOR STEPHENSON COUNTY, ILLINOISCHANCERY DIVISION WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS TRUSTEE OF QUERCUS MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. EDMOND ELLIS A/K/A EDMOND W. ELLIS JR.; et al., Defendants.

Case No.: 2022FC65 Property Address: 1304 WEST LOGAN ST, FREEPORT, IL 61032

on or before December 23, 2022, A JUDGMENT OR DECREE BY DE FAULT MAY BE TAK EN AGAINST YOU FOR THE RELIEF ASKED IN THE COMPLAINT.

AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants, Case No. 2022FC42

& Woods Currently leased until Feb. 28, 2023

NOTICE BY PUBLICATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO THE FOLLOWING, 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 cer tain Mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to wit: LOT 37 AND 38 IN ELM PARK SUBDIVISION OF WEST FREEPORT (NOW CITY OF FREEPORT); SITUATED IN THE CITY OF FREEPORT, IN THE COUNTY OF STEPHEN SON AND STATE OF IL LINOIS.

Commonly known as: 1304 WEST LOGAN ST, FREEPORT, IL 61032

Names of the titlehold ers of record: EDMOND ELLIS A/K/A EDMOND W. ELLIS JR. and BETTY ELLIS A/K/A BETTY R. ELLIS.

Date of the Mortgage: June 19, 2009.

Name or names of the mortgagors: EDMOND ELLIS A/K/A EDMOND W. ELLIS JR. and BETTY ELLIS A/K/A BETTY R. ELLIS.

Name of the mortgagee: State Bank of Paw Paw.

Date and place of re cording: June 23, 2019; Office of the Recorder of the Deeds of Stephenson County, Illinois.

Identification of re cording: Document No. 200900104362.

NOW THEREFORE, unless you file your an swer or otherwise file your appearance in this case,

E-filing is now mandato ry with limited exceptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider. Visit http://efile.illinois courts.gov/service-provid ers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider. If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://illinoiscourts. gov/self-help or talk with your local circuit clerk’s office. If you cannot e-file, you may be able to get an exemption that allows you to file in-person or by mail. Ask your circuit clerk for more information or visit www.illinoislegalaid.org. For information about de fending yourself in a court case (including filing an ap pearance or fee waiver), or to apply for free legal help, go to www.illinoislegalaid. org. You can also ask your local circuit clerk’s office for a fee waiver applica tion.

PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT COLLEC TION PRACTICES ACT, THE PLAINTIFF’S AT TORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLEC TOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.

Lender Legal PLLC 2807 Edgewater Drive Orlando, Florida 32804 Tel: (407) 730-4644 Service Emails: mjdiaz@lenderlegal.com EService@LenderLegal. com

LLS10878-IL - ELLIS Meaghan J. Diaz de Villegas, Esq. Counsel of Record for Plaintiff ARDC # 6340688 I3207633 (Published in The Shopper’s Guide Nov. 23, 30 & Dec. 7, 2022) 429115

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, STEPHENSON COUNTY, ILLINOIS, FIFTH THIRD BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION., Plaintiff, v. LANA R. DAGEL;

The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby giv en you, Lana R. Dagel, Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants, that the said suit has been commenced in the Circuit Court of the Fifteenth Ju dicial Circuit, Stephenson County, Illinois by the said plaintiff against you and other defendants, praying for the foreclosure of a cer tain Mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to-wit: Lot 2 in Block 6 in Chas.

E. Meyer Addition to the City of Freeport. 315 East Jefferson, Free port, IL 61032 18-19-06-231-004 Now, therefore, un less you, Lana R. Dagel, Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants, and the said above named defendants, file your an swer to the complaint in said suit or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the office of the Clerk of the Fifteenth Judicial Cir cuit, Stephenson County, Illinois, on or before Janu ary 27, 2023, default may be entered against you at any time after that day and a Judgment entered in ac cordance with the prayer of said Complaint.

E-filing is now mandato ry for documents in civil cases with limited exemp tions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provid er. Visit http://efile.illinois courts.gov/service-provid ers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider.

If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www.illinois courts.gov/faq/gethelp.asp or contact the Clerk of this Court.

Alan S. Kaufman (6289893)

MANLEY DEAS KOCHALSKI LLC

Attorneys for Plaintiff

One East Wacker, Suite 1250, Chicago, IL 60601 Phone: 312-651-6700; Fax: 614-220-5613 Email: sef-askaufman@ manleydeas.com

One of Plaintiff’s Attorneys File Number: 22-018016 I3208448

(Published in The Shopper’s Guide Dec. 7, 14 & 21, 2022)

JOB OPPORTUNITY

The Village of Lena will be accepting applications for a part-time Police Coordinator

The coordinator (approximately 8-12 hours per week) will be responsible for the administrative duties and daily operations of the Police Department.

An oral interview will be given prior to consideration for employment with the Village of Lena. Salary will be based on experience and will be discussed at the oral interview.

Applications can be picked up at Village Hall in Lena (122 E Main St, Lena, IL). To have an application emailed, please call 815-369-4016.

All applications must be turned in to Village Hall by Monday, Dec. 12 at 4:30 PM.

The Village of Lena is an equal opportunity employer. 429345

Fraternal Order of Eagles #679

Immediate opening for a Banquet Coordinator to be in charge of booking all parties, or functions in the banquet rooms. Responsible for pricing, room set-up, and rental fees to clients. Will actively pursue new clientele and contacts for bookings for renewals. Candidate will also oversee waitresses, bus boys, and dishwashers. Previous experience preferred but would be willing to train. Pay based on experience.

Apply at Eagles Club, 1200 W Galena Ave. Freeport, IL 61032, or send resume to: secretary@freeporteaglesfoe679.com 429123

for rent

Rock Valley Publishing , your hometown newspapers serving the stateline has an opening for an experienced Media Sales Representative to call on current and new accounts in a protected sales territory.

Growing area with many new businesses, this is a great opportunity for the right applicant.

We publish newspapers, shoppers and niche publications throughout the stateline. You have the opportunity to sell into all Rock Valley Publishing. L.L.C. publications, making your paycheck much larger!

For immediate consideration send resume/job history to: Vicki Vanderwerff, Director of Advertising

Email: vicki@southernlakesnewspapers.com Fax: (262) 725-6844

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, reli gion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any ad vertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-900-669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OP PORTUNITY

Automobiles

1969 & 1977 CADILLAC ELDO RADOS For Parts/Restoration. Call 262-581-5371.

2010 FORD ESCAPE $4000 OBO. 414-940-4624

Motorcycles

1992 750 HONDA NIGHTHAWK with Velorex sidecar. 51,000 miles. $2000. (414) 688-4008

2002 HONDA SABER 1100cc, 34,000 miles. $2100. (414) 6884008

Parts & Accessories

BIG Truck tire 12-R 22.5 $95 Call 815-367-4047

Sport Utilities

1999 CHEVY TAHOE LT select 4WD, 198k mi., new fuel pump, tires & more, 5.7 eng., well maint’d, little rust. $2,800. 815845-2006

Trucks & Trailers

TRAILER: WOODEN FRAME 11ft. 6in. long, 4ft. wide, 12in. deep. Made of 2x8 and 2x10 planking. 15” tires. $575. Pell Lake, WI. 262-279-3188.

CLASSIFIED IN-COLUMN ADS cannot be credited or refunded after the ad has been placed. Ads canceled before deadline will be removed from the paper as a service to our customers, but no credit or refund will be issued to your account.

DISCLAIMER NOTICE This publication does not knowingly accept fraudulent or deceptive advertising. Readers are cau tioned to thoroughly investigate all ads, especially those asking for money in advance.

Orangeville

In addition to promoting oral health through education, local, state, and national dental societies advocate for our patients through better government policy. Earlier this month, after years of hard work and the support of dental societies throughout America, voters in Massachusetts were given the opportunity to vote for dental insurance reform. In an overwhelming victory, Massachusetts became the first state in the nation to pass a bill that requires dental insurance companies to be more transparent and accountable when spending premium dollars. This

Holding them accountable

By Dr. Stephen petraS Illinois Licensed General Dentist

reform further requires that they spend at least 83% of those premium dollars on patient care. Those carriers who fail to provide this minimum amount of patient care will be required to pay their consumers back the difference.

“Medical loss ratio” is the term that the insurance industry uses to refer to

how much of each dollar that you pay in premiums actually goes to patient care. Currently, most states allow dental insurance companies to operate without setting a specific medical loss ratio. Professional dental societies have been working for years to provide consumer protection through dental insurance reform. But as evidenced by the incredible opposition by the dental insurance industry, legislative reform does not come easy. The Boston Globe disclosed that dental insurance companies spent approximately $7.5 million dollars in an effort

to block this question from even appearing on the Massachusetts ballot. Delta Dental Insurance alone contributed 4.5 million of that amount to keep it off the ballot. They knew that once case law was set in any state, it would set a precedent for establishing a set medical loss in every state. By keeping it off the ballot, voters would not have the ability to pass legislation that would assure their premium dollars would go to patient care rather than company profit.

In contrast to dental insurance, medical insurance companies have been

REAL ESTATE NOTICES

required to spend a minimum of 80% of premium dollars on patient care since 2011.

This increases to 85% for insurance companies in a large group market. Insurance companies that do not meet this standard must issue refunds to their enrollees to make up the difference. Not everyone gets a rebate because insurance companies are incentivized to more accurately predict their projected premiums and meet their minimum medical loss ratio to avoid paying these rebates. Thanks to legally required transparency, the government knows when medical insurance companies

do not meet these criteria. Mandated rebates are a deterrent against excessive profits. In other words, the more profit the insurance company makes, the higher the rebate they must give to every enrollee. From 2012 -2021 required rebates have put almost 10 billion dollars back in the pockets of medical insurance enrollees.

With the passage of this hard-won dental insurance reform in Massachusetts, dentists across America now have a powerful precedent to assist them in their fight to provide this critical form of consumer protection nationwide.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

JO DAVIESS COUNTYGALENA, ILLINOIS

FIRST NATIONAL BANK AND TRUST COMPANY

Plaintiff, -v.-

PAMELA KAY ATILANO A/K/A PAMELA K. ATILANO et al

Defendant 2021 CH 39

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judg ment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 13, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 1:30 PM on December 23, 2022, at the office of Vincent Roth Toepfer & Leinen PC, 11406 U.S. Route 20 W, Galena, IL, 61036, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the fol lowing described real estate: Commonly known as 9A80 EV

ERGREEN DRIVE, APPLE RIV ER, IL 61001

Property Index No. 43-18-009080-00

The real estate is improved with a residence.

Sale terms: 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, includ ing the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgag ee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lien or acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. 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

FREELANCE REPORTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS

NEEDED

Rock Valley Publishing is seeking freelance reporters and photographers to produce local news and photos for your hometown newspaper. Weekly stories and photos needed for Jo Daviees and Stephenson Counties. Writing and reporting experience a plus. Work from home as an independent contractor with no in-office requirement.

PLEASE EMAIL RESUME TO: scoopshopper@rvpublishing.com

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.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will re ceive 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 representation as to the con dition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all informa tion.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assess ments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g) (4). If this property is a condomini um 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).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAG OR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POS SESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POS SESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

You will need a photo identifi cation issued by a government agency (driver’s license, pass port, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclo sure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corpo ration conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCI ATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE

You can also visit 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

E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-21-03192 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Case Number: 2021 CH 39 TJSC#: 42-4187

NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s at torney is deemed to be a debt col lector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2021 CH 39 I3207313

(Published in The Scoop Today Nov. 23, 30 & Dec. 7, 2022) 428744

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT JO DAVIESS COUNTYGALENA, ILLINOIS U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.ELAINE L. MILLER et al Defendant 2022 FC 7

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judg ment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on July 14, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 1:30 PM on January 3, 2023, at the office of Vincent Roth Toepfer & Leinen PC, 11406 U.S. Route 20 W, Galena, IL, 61036, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

Commonly known as 411 W. MAIN ST., WARREN, IL 61087 Property Index No. 43-21-001147-00

The real estate is improved with a residence.

Sale terms: 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, includ ing the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgag ee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lien or acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. 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 confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will re ceive 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 representation as to the con dition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all informa tion.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assess ments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g) (4). If this property is a condomini um 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).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAG OR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POS SESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POS SESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

You will need a photo identifi cation issued by a government agency (driver’s license, pass port, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclo sure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corpo ration conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCI ATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE

You can also visit 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

E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com

Attorney File No. 14-22-01341

Attorney ARDC No. 00468002

Case Number: 2022 FC 7 TJSC#: 42-4264

NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s at torney is deemed to be a debt col lector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2022 FC 7 I3207905

(Published in The Scoop Today Nov. 30, Dec. 7 & 14, 2022) 429204

Wolves earn first win at Stateline Shootout

By Trenten Scheidegger

The Pearl City Wolves got off to a slow start in their 2022 boys’ basketball season. After beginning the year 0-4, the Wolves found themselves facing off with a 2-2 River Ridge Wildcats squad. The Wolves made the trip to face off with the Wildcats on their home court on Thursday, Dec. 1.

It was a game that saw the Wolves trailing early on. Only Ethan Petta and Jayden Downs sunk baskets in the opening quarter as the Wolves trailed River Ridge 7-4 at the end of the first. The Wolves failed to crack the scoreboard in the second quarter. For tunately, they were able to keep the Wildcat offense at

bay, by holding them to just five points. Still, River Ridge took a 12-4 lead into the half time break.

The third quarter is where everything seemed to fall apart for the Wolves. While River Ridge exploded for 15 points, the Wolves were held to just five points of their own. Most of the Wolves’ third quarter offense came from a Petta three point er. Petta, having just five points, had scored 62 percent of the Wolves’ points at that time. Heading into the fourth and final quarter, Pearl City trailed 27-9.

That fourth quarter seemed to spark some confidence for the Pearl City offense. The Wolves caught fire from deep as the team combined for four three pointers in the final quarter. Two of which came from Nathan Brinkmeier as the Wolves looked to pull off a massive comeback. Even tually, the Wolves were able to make it a one-possession game, but ultimately fell

short. River Ridge captured a 29-27 victory, delivering the Wolves their fifth loss of the season.

Brinkmeier led the Wolves in scoring with eight points. Petta was next up with seven, and Downs finished the game with six. Despite the disheart ening loss, the Wolves had something they could build off after that fourth quarter.

And they did build off that confidence in their next matchup. On Saturday, Dec. 3, the Wolves made the trip to Lena to face off in the State line shootout. The Wolves were matched up with the Juda Panthers, who made the trip south from Wisconsin to compete in the shootout.

The Wolves got off to a good start as four players managed to score in the first quarter. Downs led the way with four early points as Pearl City took a 9-3 lead into the second. Downs took over in the second, scoring 12 points and helping the Wolves ex pand their lead. Brinkmeier

added a three pointer in the second, as well. Pearl City took a 24-18 lead into the break.

The third quarter at the Stateline Shootout is argu ably the Wolves’ best quarter of the season up to this point. Downs continued to stay hot, putting up another nine points in the quarter. Brink meier added another four, while Jacob Runkle, Weston Gronewold, and Petta each added baskets. Altogether, the Wolves put up 25 third quarter points, which led to them taking a 49-22 lead into the final quarter.

With the game out of reach, the Wolves were able to coast towards their first victory of the 2022 season. Downs had a season-high 27 points, while Brinkmeier add ed 13 of his own. Gronewold added four points in the victo ry as well.

The Wolves will be back in action Wednesday, Dec. 14, when they travel to face off with West Carroll.

Illinois receives $14.4 million to create local food system for underserved populations

By Kay Shipman FaRmWEEk

Illinois will use $14.4 million in U.S. Department of Agriculture funding to buy locally produced food and distribute it to those in need, according to state officials.

The two-year program will involve direct purchases from eligible farmers and multiple aggregation sites where goods will be consolidated and then distributed to schools, nonprofits and food banks.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture and the Illinois Department of Human Services received the money as part of a local food purchasing cooperative agreement with USDA. Under the agreement, the state will buy produce, protein and fresh processed food at fair market value directly from underserved farmers.

To develop an implementation plan, a planning committee will hold regional listening sessions facilitated by the University of Illinois Extension next year, said Kristi Jones, deputy Illinois agriculture director.

Planning committee members include representatives of the Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Specialty Growers Association, the Illinois Association of Meat Processors, FFA, 4-H and the Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences organization.

An opportunity to buy a variety of local foods from fresh produce to proteins attracted the state to apply to the federal program, according to Jones.

“We are making it a priority to make sure ethnic foods are provided to underserved communities,” Jones said. Based on surveys conducted by the Illinois Public Health Institute, those foods include lean proteins, such as lamb, and foods from Latin America and southern foods.

Jones clarified the state is using the current federal definition of “socially disadvantaged farmers, which is very broad.” Planning committee members will determine how the definition applies to Illinois farmers, she said.

After Extension experts create an implementation plan based on information gathered from the listening sessions, the state will issue a formal request for aggregation sites where farmers’ products will be collected, packaged and distributed equitably to underserved committees. Jones noted the aggregations sites will be located around the state.

A large percentage of the $14.4 million will be used to buy products directly from farmers, while a portion of the money will go for aggregation site operation, according to Jones. Extension staff will be paid for their work with the project and to provide technical assistance to aggregation site operators and the farmers.

Jones estimated the regional listening sessions will occur in the winter and spring of 2023 with an implementation plan coming out later in 2023. She projected the aggregation sites involved with the project would operate from October 2023 through December 2024. The 2024 growing season would receive the greatest impact, she noted.

This story was distributed through a cooperative project between Illinois Farm Bureau and the Illinois Press Association. For more food and farming news, visit FarmWeekNow.com.