Forreston defeats Oregon 73-50 in boys basketball, plus girls basketball and girls bowling results / 16 SPORTS
Status hearing
Dixon man charged with attempted murder to remain jailed / 7
Earleen Hinton
The Forreston pep band plays a selection during halftime of the game against Oregon on Jan. 25 at Forreston High School.
oglecountynews.com ShawLocal.com
Included in every subscription
Activate your digital access today. Visit: ShawLocal.com/digital-activation Call: 866-979-1053
OFFICE
113-115 Peoria Ave., Dixon, IL 61021 815-732-6166, ext. 2592
SUBSCRIPTIONS
1 month – $5.42
13 weeks – $16.25
26 weeks – $32.50
52 weeks – $65
To subscribe, make a payment or discuss your delivery, call 815-732-6166, ext. 2518, from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday-Friday or send an email to subscriptions@oglecountynews.com.
You also can subscribe online by going to oglecountynews.com and clicking on Subscribe.
CLASSIFIED SALES classified@shawlocal.com
HELP WANTED employment@shawlocal.com
LEGAL NOTICES sauklegals@shawlocal.com
OBITUARIES
saukobits@shawlocal.com Deadline for obituaries is 2 p.m. Tuesday for Friday’s edition
SEND NEWS news@oglecountynews.com
Publisher Jennifer Heintzelman 815-632-2502 jheintzelman@shawmedia.com
General Manager Earleen Hinton 815-632-2591 ehinton@shawmedia.com News
Jennifer Heintzelman 815-632-2502 jheintzelman@shawmedia.com
The Tri-County Press, Ogle County News and oglecountynews.com are a division of Shaw Media. Ogle County Newspapers also prints the Mt. Morris Times, Forreston Journal and Oregon Republican Reporter.
The TRI-COUNTY PRESS (USPS No. 638-530) is published weekly by B.F. Shaw Printing Co., Shaw Media. Periodical postage paid at Polo, Illinois. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Shaw Media, P.O. Box 598, Sterling, IL 61081 All rights reserved. Copyright 2025
Forrestville Valley School District 221 bus drivers include top row: Marsha Birkholz, Laura Hillman, Kirk Janicke, Mike Kortemeier, Erin Leibow and Kristi Owens; middle row: John Mershon, Dan Miller, Alex Fry, Kelley Parks, Steve Metzger and Kathy Bickford; and bottom row: Brent Smith, Chet Strehlow, Joel Tuten, transportation director Heather Weaver and Glen Wichman
Forrestville Valley School District thanks bus drivers
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Forrestville Valley School District 221 is asking area residents to join in celebrating the district’s bus drivers during Bus Driver Appreciation
Week on Feb. 3-7.
The drivers will be acknowledged every day with a special treat from the administration, athletic departments, kitchen staff and the Forreston Grade Schools PTO, along with many students.
“The Forrestville Valley School Dis-
trict 221 bus drivers take very special care in delivering the students safely to and from school as well as the extracurricular activities. They are an extraordinary group and are appreciated very much,” the district said in a news release.
BERTOLET LIBRARY
Food For February
Bertolet Memorial Library will be collecting nonperishable food items as well as toiletries to fill the pantry shelves at River Valley Complex. Bring your unexpired items to the library this month to help keep the little pantry stocked.
Bingo is Back!
All ages are welcome to join us at the library for Bingo at 2 p.m. Monday, Feb.
CORRECTIONS
17. Free game play and fun prizes. New Releases
Adult Books: “Lie For a Million” by Janet Dailey, “Mr. Einstein’s Secretary” by Matthew Reilly
Chapter Book: “Lifeboat 5” by Susan Hood
Picture Book: “Who Loves the Dragon?” by Bianca Schulze
DVDs: “Fire Country,” season 2, “Paw Patrol Rescue Wheels”
Accuracy is important to the Polo Tri-County Press. Please call errors to our attention by email at news@oglecountynews.com.
FORRESTON LIBRARY
Toddler/Preschool Storytime, Wednesdays, 10 a.m. Join us every Wednesday when school is in session for stories, games and crafts. This program is a great opportunity for children and caregivers to discover the joy of sharing stories and making new friends.
Community Room
Looking for a place to hold your event? Our community room (with a small kitchenette) is available for meetings, parties, showers, family reunions and more. For more information, call the library at 815-938-2624.
HOW ARE WE DOING?
We want to hear from you. Email us your thoughts at feedback@shawmedia.com.
Photo provided by Jodi Welch
Ogle County Board quadruples application fee for solar and wind developers amid recent legal disputes
Cost previously varied from project to project with a maximum of $25,000; fixed cost now is $100,000
By PAYTON FELIX pfelix@shawmedia.com
OREGON – The Ogle County Board on Jan. 21 unanimously approved an ordinance to increase the application fee for commercial solar and wind projects from a maximum of $25,000 to a fixed cost of $100,000.
The fee, which project developers pay to the county, is reviewed by the Ogle County Planning and Zoning Committee on a yearly basis. Its increase in 2025 is directed at the rising number of solar projects being brought to the county, which clashes with the board’s commitment to protect agriculture and landowner rights.
To get approval for a solar or wind project, developers check off two steps: the application for a special-use permit and a public hearing, Ogle County Planning and Zoning Administrator Mark Miller said in an interview with Shaw Local News Network.
The application fee is paid by developers as part of that process. Previously, the cost varied from project to project and was calculated as “equal to 2% of proposed commercial value, up to a maximum fee of $25,000,” according to the ordinance.
The fee now is fixed at $100,000 for all commercial solar and wind developers coming to Ogle County, according to the ordinance.
The money is put into an escrow account by the county and is used to “cover any costs that would take a hearing from start to finish” by the county, Miller said.
“This is very costly,” he said, in part because the county typically hires outside counsel because “the state’s attorney just doesn’t have time to dedicate to solar projects.”
The increased fee was recommended to the board by the Planning and Zoning Committee’s 8-1 vote at its Jan. 14 meeting.
“Due to the number of potential applications out there, we need to
increase our fees to be prepared for further litigation,” board member Dan Janes said, according to the Jan. 14 Planning and Zoning Committee meeting minutes. “It’s fine if you want to go to war, but make sure you’re armed with some ammunition.”
He referenced a recent lawsuit that was filed against the county by a commercial solar developer, Cenergy Power, after the board unanimously denied a special-use permit in April 2024 for its solar project in Haldane. The board voted against the project based on the property’s quality farmland.
In the lawsuit, the developer based its argument off an Illinois law, enacted in January 2023, that requires counties and municipalities to adopt statewide standards for utility-scale solar and wind facilities.
The developer also decreased the size of its site plan to avoid the higher-quality soils in the southeast corner of the property and resubmitted its plan.
The board approved the project at its Dec. 17, 2024, meeting by a 13-11 vote to avoid fighting the lawsuit, which could cost anywhere from $300,000 to $500,000, Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock said at that meeting.
At the Jan. 14 committee meeting,
board member Ryan Reeverts said the increased fee needs to be justified because an Illinois public act requires that a county’s application fee must be “reasonable.”
According to the law, “a county may not require permit application fees for a commercial wind-energy facility or commercial solar-energy facility that are unreasonable. All application fees imposed by the county shall be consistent with fees for projects in the county with similar capital value and cost,” according to ilga.gov.
The Lee County Board updated its fee ordinance in January 2023 shortly after the new Illinois law was enacted, Lee County Zoning Administrator Alice Henkel said in an interview with Shaw Local. The application fee for commercial solar and wind projects in Lee County is $5,000 per megawatt up to a maximum of $100,000, which is used to cover the costs of a public hearing, according to the ordinance.
If those expenses are less than the charged fee, the remaining amount is refunded to developers, or if they exceed the charged fee, the developer is responsible for paying that amount to the county, according to the ordinance.
In Whiteside County, the application
fee for solar and wind developers, which went into effect Jan. 1, 2022, is $1,000 plus $10 for every adjacent property included in the site plan, Whiteside County Building and Zoning Administrator Suzan Stickle said in an interview with Shaw Local.
That fee covers any costs that would take the county through a hearing for the project, she said.
At the Ogle County committee meeting, Chairperson Pat Nordman said she felt the increase was needed and listed several examples of recent unexpected costs to the county related to solar projects.
Looking ahead, the county has a special-use permit for a solar project in Polo coming to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a public hearing at 6 p.m. Jan. 30 at the Old Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S. Fifth St. in Oregon.
Miller said he expects there to be another one coming in February and to have petitions for “four potential solar projects in the not-so-far future.”
The board approved three solar projects in 2023, all of which are not yet under construction. As of this month, there are five solar projects in some phase of the construction process in Ogle County, Miller said.
Payton Felix
The Ogle County Board unanimously approved an ordinance to increase the application fee for commercial solar and wind projects from a maximum of $25,000 to $100,000 at its meeting Jan. 21.
A little Christmas tree was made from diaper pins
Several years ago, I visited a nursing home in Sterling. As I went along the hall, the rooms that had windows to the south had little bobblehead dolls that were dancing away in the sun. I finally had to go into a room to see what these little creatures were that danced away on each window ledge.
They were plastic dolls that danced back and forth on a sunny day. If it was cloudy, they did not perform so you really wished for sunny weather. They were so cute and really kept one entertained.
I never saw them again nor did I know where they came from or where one bought them.
Then last weekend when Susan and Tim came from Michigan, they brought me a little box of old Christmas decorations. In it was a little dancing Santa Claus and he is on my kitchen window where he loves a sunny day.
POLO HISTORY
Betty Obendorf
Today, he is going to be all tired out because he is dancing up a storm.
He also will not be put away because I am going to let him dance all spring, summer, fall, and hope he is not too tired out by next Christmas. We will need many sunny days.
Another Christmas decoration that was in the box was a little tree made out of diaper pins. Remember when we diapered our babies with cloth diapers? Well, maybe not many of you remember, but we at one time used cloth diapers, believe it or not. The pins we used were large diaper pins with colored heads in pink, blue or yellow.
First Fridays Open Mic is Feb. 7 at Oregon VFW
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
OREGON – The First Fridays Open Mic will present its monthly show at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, at the Oregon VFW.
“This indoor event attracts many talented performers, but musicians and singers of all skill levels find acceptance from its supportive audience,” said Lowell Harp, of First Fridays.
“Performers can sign up for time slots on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s best to arrive by 6 p.m. or earlier.”
Admission is free. A jar is available for donations.
For more information, call Jerry Tice at 815-449-2660.
The VFW is located at 1310 W. Washington St. in Oregon. There is ample parking and a restaurant and bar within the building. A fish fry runs from 4 to 8 p.m.
The first disposable diapers mass-marketed in the U.S. were CHUX from Johnson & Johnson in 1948. Proctor and Gamble introduced Pampers in 1961. Kimberly-Clark released Kimbies, which featured a triangular shape and adhesive tape fasteners, in 1968 and replaced Kimbies with Huggies in 1978.
I never used any of those for my children.
I have read where cloth diapers are coming back. Does your family use cloth diapers for the children?
The little tree made with those old diaper pins used clear, red and green beads placed on those old pins. It is very lovely and very old. I have no idea how it was made but I will keep it out all year since it is something new. I have a light under it and it makes a nice night-light as it sparkles away in the night.
So I am enjoying some new Christ-
mas decorations this year and still in the holiday spirit. Steve came out this weekend and put away some of the outdoor decorations but the inside still is full of holiday glitter.
I am not ready to tuck it all away and have added some white snowballs and valentine hearts.
Steve took me to church and while there Beth handed me a copy of the application that was sent off earlier this month to the Network To Freedom Committee. As I glanced through the application, all 48 pages, it is a work of art.
Beth is a talented person and we are glad to have her skills at the Polo Historical Society. She also is now part of the Church Council.
Way to go, Beth.
• Betty Obendorf is a retired teacher and volunteer for the Polo Historical Society.
Timber Lake Playhouse to hold auditions for summer season
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
MOUNT CARROLL – Timber Lake Playhouse will hold auditions Feb. 2 for the 2025 summer season.
Local children, teenagers and adults are encouraged to audition for roles in TLP’s Youth Program, including “Beetlejuice Jr.” for high schoolers through elementary school students, as well as Mainstage Season 2025 for adults.
“We are looking for actors of all ages from the Mount Carroll area and surrounding communities to join our 2025 season. Local actors will have opportunities to participate alongside our professional company, gaining invaluable experience in a professional theater setting,” Bill Titus, manager of operations, said in a news release. “Several roles have been crafted with local talent in mind to play parental roles and younger versions of our resident company and we are eager to see the creativity and passion our community has to offer. Whether you’re an experienced performer or a fresh face, we warmly invite you to audition to become part of our 2025 season.”
Roles are available for local actors
and actresses for all Mainstage shows: “Saturday Night Fever The Musical,” “Rock of Ages,” “Waitress,” Disney’s “Frozen” and “Friendship Landing.”
Young performers interested in featured roles and ensemble opportunities are encouraged to audition for “Waitress,” “Frozen” and “Beetlejuice Jr.”
“Local performers must be available for most rehearsals and all performances,” Titus said. “Rehearsals are typically held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding Mondays, with modifications based on the role and production. Performance schedules vary but usually include seven shows per week over a three-week run.”
Auditions will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2, at the playhouse. “Prepare a short song that reflects the season’s programming and brings you joy and provide sheet music for the accompanist. Bring a headshot (or a clear photo of yourself) and resume stapled together,” Titus said. “Video submissions can be sent to casting@ timberlakeplayhouse.org. Include your short video, headshot and resume.”
More Information is at timberlakeplayhouse.org.
Photo provided by Lowell Harp
Lance Coffin is a guitarist and singer who performs country and popular ballads.
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
OREGON – Encore! Mt. Morris has received an $11,200 donation from 100+ Women Who Care.
The sizable donation was received by Jeff Bold, one of Encore’s volunteer directors.
Encore is an organization that strives to create “a unique, thriving rural and cultural arts destination in northwest Illinois” that is based in Mt. Morris.
Founded in 2016, the organization provides the local community and beyond with events such as the annual Straw Sculpture Competition and Porchfest, as well as supporting the Old Sandstone Art Gallery that displays local talent.
“Encore also works in conjunction with the Let Freedom Ring Fourth of July festivities and the weekly Jamboree. Summer programs for children are also provided free of charge to the community,” said Bev Opalka of 100+ Women Who Care. “The money will be used to provide the community with the opportunity for cultural expression, specifically to provide for the summer artist in
residence through Highland Community College who provides the summer programs.”
Membership in 100+ Women Who Care has grown to 112 women who reside in Ogle County.
100+ Women Who Care donations go to local 501(c)(3) organizations within
Ogle County. Meetings are held on a quarterly basis and presentations are made by several nonprofit organizations, which are then voted on to receive $100 from each member. No other fees are required.
The group meets in locations within Ogle County. Anyone interested in
becoming a member or learning more about how the donation process works for their organization can contact Deanna Forrest at forrestdede5@gmail. com or find 100+ Women Who Care on Facebook at facebook.com/oglegives.
For more information on Encore! Mt. Morris, visit encoremtmorris.com.
Photo provided by Bev Opalka
100+ Women Who Care of Ogle County pose for a photo with the mock check representing $11,200 they donated to Jeff Bold of Encore! Mt. Morris.
Tax incentives coming for Byron nuclear plant upgrades
New projects include amusement complex between Amboy, Sublette
By PAYTON FELIX pfelix@shawmedia.com
DIXON – The Lee County Board has joined the Ogle County Board and Oregon City Council in approving three ordinances to expand the boundaries of the Lee-Ogle County Enterprise Zone in preparation for three new projects planned in rural Lee and Ogle counties.
The projects are increasing power output at the Byron nuclear plant, building an entertainment complex along with a separate bar and restaurant between Amboy and Sublette and constructing another building at HA International’s manufacturing plant just outside Oregon.
The enterprise zone, created through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, is designed to stimulate economic growth by offering state and local tax incentives to proj-
ects within the zone’s boundaries. For most projects in the zone, they are looking at two major incentives related to new construction, Administrator Andy Shaw said.
One is a sales tax exemption on all building materials related to the project, which comes out to about 8% savings at the beginning of the project. The second is property tax abatements if the assessed property value increases after construction is completed, Shaw said.
The proposed zone expansion was approved by the Ogle County Board at its Jan. 21 meeting and by the Oregon City Council on Jan. 14.
Over the next several weeks it will be brought to several local governments within the zone – Dixon, Rochelle and Franklin Grove among them. After that, the zone’s advisory board will submit an application to the Illinois DCEO for final approval, which could take a couple of months, Shaw said.
The project developers don’t have to wait for state approval to expand the zone, but Shaw said he expects most of them will because, if not, they could miss out on the full benefits of building
within the zone. The whole process is expected to take at least six months, he said.
The majority of the expansion is for the Byron nuclear plant, a total of 171.92 acres, which will encompass Constellation’s plan to increase power output by adding six low-pressure turbines, two high-pressure turbines and making updates to the electrical system, Ryan Tozer, Constellation’s manager of local government affairs, said Jan. 23. Constellation is an energy company headquartered in Baltimore.
Constellation plans to invest more than $355 million in the project, which is set to begin this year and last until 2029. Throughout that time frame there are four windows planned for construction. Constellation will be looking to hire between 500 and 600 contractional employees during each window, Tozer said.
“It’s a major investment and a lot of workers to the regional area,” Tozer said.
The improvements are expected to extend the life of the Byron nuclear plant until about 2080.
“Constellation is poised to invest more than $355 million in the Byron Clean Energy Center to increase its capacity and is seeking support from the Lee-Ogle Enterprise Zone to expand its boundaries to include the nuclear facility. This inclusion will lead to one of the largest investments in the Lee-Ogle Enterprise Zone and will bring new jobs and additional emissions-free power generation to northern Illinois,” Paul Dempsey, Constellation communications manager, said in a June 9, 2024, statement.
Another amendment to the zone includes about 10.61 acres for two projects – Fun on 52 and Pub & Patio along Route 52 between Amboy and Sublette. The projects are both being developed by Sanjay Desai, according to the ordinance. Fun on 52, expected to be completed in late 2027, is planned to be a family-oriented amusement complex with golf activities and go-karts, Shaw said. The county board approved a special-use permit for the project, filed by Desai, at its meeting in November 2024.
See PROJECTS, page 9
Dixon man accused of attempted murder will remain jailed
New information argued by defense calls incident a ‘paradox of a welfare check’
By PAYTON FELIX pfelix@shawmedia.com
OREGON – A rural Dixon man charged with the attempted murder of three police officers at his residence in June 2024 will remain jailed despite new information argued by the defense calling the incident a “paradox of a welfare check.”
Jonathon Gounaris, 32, is charged with four counts of attempted first-degree murder, three counts of aggravated discharge of a firearm, three counts of aggravated battery and two counts of possession of a firearm without a firearm owner’s identification card – all of which stem from a June 12, 2024, standoff with police in the rural Dixon subdivision of Lost Lake.
Gounaris has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is being held in the Winnebago County Jail in Rockford.
Jonathon Gounaris (right) is escorted Jan. 23 into an Ogle County courtroom at the Judicial Center in Oregon. Gounaris is charged with the attempted murder of three law enforcement officers during a standoff at his rural Dixon home in June 2024 and is being held in the Winnebago County Jail as his case proceeds through the court system.
On Thursday, Jan. 23, Gounaris appeared for a status hearing before Judge John “Ben” Roe during which Ogle County Assistant Public Defender
Now Available
Michael O’Brien argued for his release. O’Brien said that at the June 20 detention hearing, one argument was not made regarding the circumstances surround-
ing officers’ entry to the home in the 400 block of Wild Rice Lane in Lost Lake.
During that hearing, Gounaris was represented by former Ogle County Public Defender William Gibbs, who has since left that position.
At a news conference June 12, Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle said police were called at 8:39 a.m. that day to the residence with a warning that it could be a “suicide-by-cop” situation. The officers were informed that Gounaris had made suicidal and homicidal threats.
Shortly after officers arrived, the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office’s Emergency Response Team was called. The ERT is made up of individuals from different agencies including the sheriff’s office, Oregon and Byron police departments and SWAT medics from the Rochelle Fire Department.
Police made more than 60 attempted phone calls to the residence, Gounaris’ cellphone and a throw phone that was deployed inside the home, VanVickle said.
See GOUNARIS, page 10
Unlock the Potential of Your Home’s Equity
In a market where home values are soaring, your home is not just a place of comfort; it’s a vault of opportunity.
The equity you have in your home has likely never been higher. It’s time to unlock this potential with a Home Equity Line of Credit!
Why Consider a Home Equity Loan?
• Home Improvements
Boost your home’s value even further
• Debt Consolidation
Consolidate high-interest debts into one manageable payment
• Vacations or Weddings
Create memories that last a lifetime
• School or Education
Advance your career or support your child’s education
Earleen Hinton
Pecatonica man pleads not guilty to fleeing from police
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – A Pecatonica man pleaded not guilty Wednesday, Jan. 22, to aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer and 10 other charges, all stemming from a Jan. 6 incident in which Ogle County sheriff’s deputies said he was traveling 125 mph in a 55-mph speed zone.
Jered T. Vautsmeier, 21, pleaded not guilty to felony aggravated fleeing and 10 other misdemeanor charges when he appeared in court for his arraignment with his attorney Glenn Jazwiec in front of Judge Anthony Peska.
Vaustmeier waived his right to a pre-
liminary hearing, a reading of the charges against him, and entered a demand for a jury trial.
Vautsmeier is accused of “willfully failing” or refusing to obey “a visual or audible signal” on Jan. 6, driving at least 21 mph over the speed limit. He also is charged with the misdemeanor offenses of resisting a police officer – he is accused of locking himself in his vehicle after being instructed by a police officer to exit the vehicle – and
obstructing identification after giving an officer a fictitious name, according to court records.
According to court records, Vautsmeier also furnished a false date of birth to the officer, drove with a suspended driver’s license, drove in excess of 35 mph over the speed limit and failed to stop at a stop sign at Illinois 64 and Union Road. Other misdemeanor charges include improper lane use, improper display of a registration plate and operating an uninsured motor vehicle.
According to information provided by the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office, deputies stopped Vautsmeier’s vehicle at 6:24 p.m. Jan. 6 in the 11000 block of West Route 64 outside of Polo. Vautsmeier
fled the traffic stop and a pursuit took place.
“The vehicle fled from deputies at a high rate of speed until the pursuit was terminated for safety concerns. The vehicle was located a short time later in Leaf River and again fled from deputies. The pursuit was again terminated a short time after it entered Winnebago County,” according to a release from the sheriff’s office.
The vehicle eventually was found by Pecatonica police in Winnebago County and Ogle County deputies took custody of Vautsmeier. He was taken to the Ogle County Jail for processing and released. His next court date is scheduled for 9 a.m. Feb. 26.
Rochelle man pleads not guilty to possessing, delivering cocaine and ecstasy
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – A Rochelle man pleaded not guilty Wednesday, Jan. 22, to possessing a large amount of ecstasy and cocaine, which police said he intended to sell.
Christopher L. Reed, 30, entered the not guilty plea when he appeared with his attorney, Assistant Ogle County Public Defender Michael O’Brien, for a preliminary hearing in front of Ogle County Judge Anthony Peska.
Reed is charged with two Class X felonies – the most serious felonies in Illinois – for possessing between 200 and 600 ecstasy pills, also called MDMA, and 15 to 100 grams of cocaine after being stopped for a traffic violation Jan. 8 in Rochelle.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, ecstasy/MDMA, commonly called “molly,” is both a stimulant and hallucinogen, “producing an energizing effect, distortions in time and perception, and enhanced enjoyment of tactile experiences. Known as a party drug, ecstasy comes in pill or powder form; the pill has a variety of logos and colors.”
During the hearing, Assistant State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten said Rochelle police officer Trevor Owen discovered the pills and cocaine in a backpack that was on the floor in front of Reed, who was a passenger in a car pulled over for a traffic offense about 7:20 p.m. on Lincoln Avenue.
Owen said his K-9 partner Odie, a
trained narcotics detection dog, alerted to the drugs when he was walked around the vehicle.
Christopher Reed
During a search of the vehicle, Owen said he found a “significant amount of cash” – $450 – and a white substance in one of the front pockets of the backpack. He said the substance was field tested and determined to be 1.2 grams of cocaine. Two orange pills were determined to be ecstasy.
Owen said he found two more bags of cocaine inside the backpack that weighed 35.5 grams and 206 pills of ecstasy. He said a scale with powder residue and plastic bags also were found during the search.
“I believe the defendant was selling the narcotics,” Owen testified.
Under cross-examination by O’Brien, Owen said he had received “confidential” tips from an informant that Reed was “selling drugs.”
“You immediately called for assistance when you made the traffic stop,” O’Brien said.
“Yes,” Owen replied.
O’Brien questioned the purpose of pulling over the vehicle and subsequent search, but Leisten objected, saying those questions were outside the parameters of a preliminary hearing wherein a judge determines whether probable cause exists to con-
tinue with the charges.
“Motions to suppress are relevant to the question of a traffic stop and search,” O’Brien said.
Peska agreed with Leisten and sustained the objection.
O’Brien then asked the court to reconsider a decision made to keep Reed in custody.
Detention hearings are part of the relatively new pretrial release directive in which judges decide whether a defendant should be held in custody rather than setting a bond for release.
Criteria used by judges to make that decision include the nature of the alleged offenses, whether the defendant’s release would present a “clear and present danger” to the community or individuals, and whether the defendant is considered to be a “flight risk” and likely not to appear again for scheduled court cases.
bifocal & specialty lenses comprehensive eye health exams great selection of eyeglass frames
Leisten argued that Reed should not be released, citing his criminal history and that Reed was on probation for another offense in another county when this alleged offense occurred.
O’Brien argued that Reed could be released and electronically monitored.
“These are detainable offenses,” Peska said. “And they certainly are serious. These substances cause significant harm. And because the alleged offense happened while the defendant was on probation is pretty telling. I don’t believe GPS monitoring removes the danger here.”
Peska set Reed’s next hearing for 1 p.m. Jan. 29 and remanded him to the Ogle County Jail.
Class X felonies carry a maximum sentence of six to 30 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections, and enhancements to those offenses, if found guilty, can be nine to 40 years.
Jered T. Vautsmeier
HAROLD “SWEDE” KNAPP
Born: May 24, 1926 in Harmon, IL
Died: January 19, 2025 in Sterling, IL
STERLING – Harold D.
“Swede” Knapp, age 98, formerly of Rock Falls passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025 at Morningside of Sterling.
Swede was born on May 24, 1926 the son of Charles W. and Melvina (Miller) Knapp. At age 18 he enlisted in the Navy and later worked for Northwestern Steel & Wire Company for 31 years where he repaired air conditioners, was an electrician and lastly a furnace repairman. He married Frances M. Plautz on September 18, 1946 and they lived in Rock Falls where they raised their three sons in the home that Swede built. They were members of Immanuel Lutheran Church. Swede and Frances enjoyed traveling, especially by RV and would spend their winters in Arizona where Swede joined a woodcarving club, a hobby that he would continue into his
• PROJECTS
Continued from page 6
Now Available OBITUARIES
The other project adjacent to Fun on 52 is planned to be a bar and grill restaurant, Pub & Patio. It is to be located near the gate to Woodhaven Resort and is expected to be completed in late 2025, Shaw said.
Both projects total about $6 million and are expected to generate about 20 new jobs at each location, he said.
The last amendment approved by the board is the addition of 17.21 acres for a project at HA International in rural Ogle County, west of Oregon on Devils Back Bone Road south of Pines Road. The company plans to expand its existing plant by bringing an improved production line from one of the company’s sites in Ohio, Shaw said.
The expansion would include constructing a new building to manufacture a product called feeders to be used in the metal-casting industry. It will cost about $10 million to complete, cre -
90s. He enjoyed making unique carvings for his children and grandchildren. He was also a talented painter and could fix anything. Swede will be remembered for his storytelling, often sharing tales about growing up on farms and serving the Navy. He loved sharing these stories with his grandchildren and could always make them laugh.
He is survived by his three sons, Dennis (Diana) Knapp of Rock Falls, Douglas (Dawn) Knapp of Polo and Gary (Marie) Knapp of New Jersey; eight grandchildren; nine great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; one sister and one step-grandson. Cremation rites have been accorded.
A gathering of family and friends will be from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Friday, January 31, 2025 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Rock Falls. Memorial service will follow at 11:00 AM with Pastor Bree Truax officiating. Private family burial will be held at Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling at later date.
In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established to Immanuel Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be sent to www.mcdonaldfuneralhomes.com
ate 17 new manufacturing jobs in the short term and 56 new jobs over the course of about 10 years, Shaw said.
“HA International, we are really in favor of that and supporting that,” Oregon Mayor Ken Williams said after a Jan. 9 public hearing. “I found in that working with the people in Ohio is they were looking for locations throughout the United States. And one of the reasons they chose Oregon, Illinois, aside from a site available, is they felt they had a better chance of getting a good workforce.”
The state limits the enterprise zone’s coverage area. In total, it can cover 12,800 acres, Shaw said.
The expansion would grow its total coverage area to 11,483 acres, leaving about 1,316 acres available for future use, he said.
“We feel pretty comfortable that we’re OK with future needs, but there are some other tricks we can do to create some space, too,” Shaw said.
• Earleen Hinton contributed to this story.
JACQUELYN S. BUSE
Born: June 10, 1939
Died: January 5, 2025
Jacquelyn S. Buse, 85 passed away peacefully on January 5, 2025 at Serenity Hospice and Home, Oregon, IL. She was born in Princeton, IL on June 10, 1939, the daughter of Milton and Eleanor Burkey. She graduated from Walnut, IL in 1957.
She worked at John Knobel & Son as a Feed Salesperson for 10 years. She relocated to Augusta, WI and worked at JC Penny’s as Manager in Jewelry Department until retirement. She moved back to Freeport to be closer to her children and grandchildren. Her passion was baking, especially cinnamon rolls and donuts with her neighbors for fundraisers. She loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
She would go as far as Florida to see them. Loved to sing and dance. The life of the party. Very independent person. Always there to listen and help guide you.
She is survived by her children, Rick (Penny) Roop, Terry (Les) Thomas, Randy (Vickie) Roop, Rusty (Karleen) Roop and daughter inlaw Nancy Buse; grandchildren, Travis (Caitlin) Roop, Heather (Josh) Lahman, Paige Roop, Justin (Cass) Lee, Jay (Crystal) Thomas, Craig (Brittnee) Thomas, Kyle Roop, Keith Roop, Jake (Veronica) Steder, Amber Steder, Josh (Sara) Roop, Brian Roop, Jimmy (Kathy) Buse, Kristi (Todd) Strauch, Brian (Stacey) Leslin, and Ryan (Autumn) Leslin; 26 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband Jim Buse, her parents and 3 sisters Virginia McMillion, Elizabeth Rosenberger, Priscilla Freeze and brother Billy Burkey.
A celebration of life will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established at Serenity Hospice and Home
How to submit: Send obituary information to saukobits@shawlocal.com or call 815-632-2534. Notices are accepted until 2 p.m. Tuesday for Friday’s edition. Obituaries also appear online at shawlocal.com.
Continued from page 7
At 11:53 a.m., police breached the door to the home and immediately were met with gunfire from inside the house, VanVickle said. Three deputies and Gounaris were shot while exchanging gunfire.
To view the body camera footage, visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zEhLBrcn0g.
In court Jan. 23, O’Brien said “the call [to police] was made because of mental health concerns.”
O’Brien said Gounaris’ mother told police June 12 that she didn’t know what to do about her son’s mental health. She talked about an emotional outburst as well as homicidal and suicidal comments that Gounaris had made in the past, O’Brien said.
When police arrived at the residence, they never announced themselves as police over a loud speaker, O’Brien said. Instead, they established a perimeter far away from the home and concealed themselves and their vehicles.
At 11:02 a.m., two deputies approached the house without announcing them -
selves as police and deployed a throw phone into the home, O’Brien said. They received no communication from Gounaris and tried to enter the home, he said.
“They had their guns drawn and forcibly kicked in the door,” O’Brien said. “This is not something that was a community caretaking entry.”
Kruse said Gounaris’ mother told authorities that her son suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and, in general, hated police. She said her son had barricaded himself in the home and threatened to kill himself or anyone else who tried to talk to him.
The mother also informed police that Gounaris had access to two guns, Kruse said.
“The officers went there to make sure the public is safe,” she said.
Kruse said police made multiple calls to the residence before deploying the throw phone, which was done before entry was made.
When officers did breach the door to the residence, “the defendant fired before anybody entered the home,” she said.
Gounaris was wearing a bullet-proof
OGLE COUNTY PROPERTY TRANSFERS
Jan. 20-26
Warranty Deeds
Colton Ray Farmer and Kailey Jeanette Farmer to Deangelo Bell and Kalie Bell, 7541 N Mulford Road, Monroe Center, $350,000.
Patrick Gillette and Myranda Gillette to Brian Willis and Janet Willis, 1082 N. Eighth St., Rochelle, $250,000.
Nationwide Property Restoration LLC to Maverick Wells and Lisa Wells, 108 S. Jackson Ave., Polo, $94,500.
A&H Land LLC to Gary K. Nefstead, one parcel in Scott Township, $758,165.
O W L Properties LLC, to Patrick J. Shippert and Whitney A. Shippert, 207 N. Seventh St., Oregon, $259,000.
Kelley Williamson Company to Illinois Department Of Transportation, 100 S. Union St., Byron, $850.
Richard S. Knutson to Dane M. Mitchell and Victoria T. Packer, 14380 W. Canada Road, Polo, $325,000.
Alberto Garnica and Diana Garnica to Adrian Alonso and Marcy Garcia, 1119 Pickwick Drive, Rochelle, $276,000.
Creston Commons LLC to Jacob R. Rose and Makayla M. Sarver, one parcel in Dement Township: 25-23-305-001, $27,500.
Ethan Jarrod Hardiman and Desiree Hardiman to KS Endeavors LLC, 1054 Turkington Terrace, Rochelle, $151,822.
Verna L. Calhoun to Bradley Johnson and Angela Johnson, 181 Terrace View Blvd., Oregon, $189,900.
Esmeralda N. Milan, trustee, and Hueramo Family Tr to Milton Bueno, 316 Ave. H, Rochelle, $127,500.
Quit Claim Deeds
Kenneth Anspach to Kenneth L. Anspach, Trustee, and Kenneth L. Anspach Tr, 512 S. Garden Ave., Forreston, $0.
Mardella A. Kuper, Deceased By Heirs, to Karen Feldman, Kris Fuchs and Kimbre Smice, 9454 N. Hollywood Road, Forreston, and 202 W. White Oak Road, Forreston, $0.
vest and began “shooting multiple rounds not only into but also at officers,” Kruse said. Three of them were struck and injured.
O’Brien disagreed. He called the incident a “paradox of the welfare check.”
“The context does matter,” O’Brien said. “Officers went to that residence to check on a suicidal subject.”
While in custody, Gounaris has continued to follow up with mental health services and hasn’t missed a dose of medications prescribed for his mental health, O’Brien said. In the past month, Gounaris also has started an additional prescription that is helping, O’Brien said.
Kruse disagreed.
“I urge you not to make the leap,” she said.
Gounaris still is a danger while “he’s taking unspecified medications for an unspecified mental health condition,” she said.
Kruse said Gounaris has a history of refusing to get treatment for his mental health, including a dislike of taking medications. When Gounaris was 20 years old, he was seeing a psychiatrist but abruptly stopped going to appointments because he didn’t want to get
help, she said.
O’Brien disagreed. There are certain conditions to his release that would mitigate the risk to the public such as stay-away orders or GPS tracking, he said.
Kruse disagreed.
She said GPS tracking assumes that the public is safe if law enforcement knows where that individual is.
Gounaris was in his home when this incident occurred, Kruse said.
“Knowing where the defendant is would not mitigate the danger to the public,” she said.
Roe acknowledged the new arguments presented by the defense.
“There’s certainly some issues that the court can consider,” Roe said.
Still, Roe denied any condition for release based on the extensive previous arguments made by the state.
Gounaris’ next court appearance is at 2:30 p.m. Feb. 6.
Usually the court schedules status hearings about a month apart, but O’Brien requested an earlier date “because there’s some issues with Gounaris’ detention that I want to address promptly,” O’Brien said.
Kruse made no objection and Roe granted the request.
Amanda Lee and Amanda Droege to Eric Droege, 309 N. 12th St., Rochelle, $0. Timothy L. Singley to Timothy L. Singley and Brett W. Singley, 17903 W. Young St., Polo, $0.
Deeds in Trust
Jennifer L B Madden to Jennifer L B Madden, Trustee, and Birkholz Madden Family Tr, 165 S. Fox Run Lane, Byron, and one parcel in Byron Township: 05-31-303-007, $0.
Deed of Trust
KS Endeavors LLC to Priority Title, trustee; third party: Ethan Jarrod Hardiman, Beneficiary,1054 Turkington Terrace, Rochelle, $151,822.
Trustee Deeds
Vito Iozzo, Trustee, and Vito M. Iozzo Rev Dec Tr to Illinois Department Of Transportation, 730 W. Blackhawk Drive, Byron, $300. Nancy Jensen, trustee, Marjorie E. Marlow, trustee, Kathryn Fane, trustee, Pearl M. Jensen Tr102, Central Bank Il, trustee, and
First National Bank And Trust Company Of Rochelle Tr09003, 16250 Creston Road, Rochelle, and two other parcels in Dement Township: 25-20-300-005 and 25-20-400005, $2,153,898.
Nancy Jensen, trustee, Marjorie E. Marlow, trustee, Kathryn Fane, trustee, and Albert E. Jensen Tr101, to Nancy Jensen, trustee, Marjorie E. Marlow, trustee, Kathryn Fane, trustee, Pearl M. Jensen Tr102, 16250 Creston Road, Rochelle, and two other parcels in Dement Township: 25-20-300-005 and 25-20-400-005, $0.
Gary Poliska, trustee, David Lloyd, trustee, and James Vagle Living Tr to Terry P. Hardy and Lisa M. Hardy, 2665 N. Church Road, Kings, and 2731 N. Church Road, Kings, $0. Thomas A. Meadows, trustee, Marjorie J. Meadows, trustee, Thomas A. Meadows Tr, and Marjorie J. Meadows Tr to Geri Craig, 1133 N. Seventh St., Unit 608, Rochelle, $87,000.
Source:OgleCountyRecorder’sOffice
Dixon takes control, pulls away from Byron
By TY REYNOLDS
Shaw Local News Network correspondent
DIXON – The first time Dixon played Byron at Lancaster Gym this season, the Duchesses fell behind early and never found their rhythm.
But they turned the tables on the Tigers on Saturday, Jan. 25, using smothering defense and controlled offense to pick up a 47-36 Big Northern Conference win.
“We wanted our get-back game and we did what we had to do,” sophomore Ahmyrie McGowan said. “We played them in the Christmas tournament and we didn’t do so well [in a 50-33 loss] and we knew what we had to do different this time. We had a game plan and we stuck to it.”
That game plan involved junior Morgan Hargrave following Byron catalyst Macy Groharing all over the court while her teammates switched defenses between man-to-man, a 2-3 zone, a boxand-1 and even a triangle-and-2 on a few
possessions to stifle the Tigers’ offense. Groharing finished with five points on 1-of-4 shooting and 3-for-4 from the free-throw line. She facilitated in other ways with five rebounds, three assists, a steal and a block. But after Byron (22-2, 4-1 BNC) hit three straight shots midway through the first quarter to take a 10-5 lead, it hit just eight more until both teams emptied their benches.
“Coming in, we had four different defenses that we were ready to play and we worked on them all in practice. I knew my role tonight was to defend Macy and I think I did an excellent job on her, but we cannot defend her with one person and my team was right behind me,” Hargrave said. “You can’t play defense without all five people working together. We figured out a way to stop them, made them work hard to get shots, forced them into shots they didn’t want to take, and all around, it was just great work by all five of us.”
Brian Hurley
Dixon’s Morgan Hargrave passes the ball against Byron’s Aubrie Miller on Jan. 25.
Oregon wrestlers take first at invitational in LeRoy
By RANDY HOLLAND
Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Oregon wrestlers were in a nip-andtuck battle with Princeton for the team lead at the 2025 Randy Bowman Invitational Wrestling Tournament on Saturday, Jan. 25, in LeRoy.
The Hawks then surged ahead in the semifinal round in both the championship and consolation brackets and built a 30-point lead, which they maintained through the medal round.
When the mats were rolled up, Oregon won the team title with 205 points. Princeton was second with 172. Host LeRoy and 2024 champion Oakwood-Salt Fork had 144 and 143 points, respectively. El Paso-Gridley was a distant fifth.
Josiah Perez at 113 pounds was the lone first-place finisher for Oregon.
Preston LaBay at 126 and Nelson Benesh at 132 were second.
Winning on the third-place mat were Jackson Messenger at 138, Andrew Young at 135 and Landon Elder at 215.
Landon Ege at 126 and Ethan Mowry at 157 were fourth-place finishers.
Mowry was injured in the semifinal and forfeited in the medal match.
Taking fifth place were Isaiah Perez at 120, Jayden Berry at 150 and Briggs Sellers at 285. Jordon Lowe was sixth at 106. Also wrestling for the Hawks were Boone Alderks at 120, Leyton Kenney at 165 and Seth Rote at 190. Alderks had a come-from-behind victory in overtime and Kenney had a pin in the championship bracket and another pin in the wrestlebacks.
Princeton had four first-place finishers, but only one third place and one fourth place, losing several times in the lower-bracket semifinals and giving the Hawks the edge in team points.
The Hawks had a very strong first round. Josiah Perez had a bye and nine Hawks pinned and one scored a major decision. Rote and Sellers had the only losses in the first round. In the quarterfinals, Josiah Perez went from a butcher to a half nelson at 3:44.
Also pinning were Ege with a comefrom-behind scrape at 5:33, Benesh with a half nelson at 1:02, Mowry stopping a flip at 1:10 and Young with a high crotch
to the back at 2:27. LaBay won 11-5, Messenger won 10-6 and Elder won 6-3. Isaiah Perez lost 6-0. Lowe, Alderks and Kenney all lost by technical falls, Kenney losing to the eventual champion. Berry was pinned in a wing and half nelson at 5:28.
In the consolation bracket, Lowe pinned twice to reach the fifth-place match, where he lost a hard-fought 6-3 decision. Isaiah Perez also pinned twice, including a spladle in 54 seconds in the semifinal. Berry also pinned twice, the second a takedown to the back in 37 seconds. Sellers pinned three times to get to the medal round.
Sellers had a wing at 3:47, a takedown to the back at 2:35 and a reverse to the back at the first-period buzzer. Alderks was pinned at 5:38 to drop from the competition, Kenney lost 16-9 and Rote ended his day being pinned at 5:25.
In the fifth-place matches, Isaiah Perez had six takedowns in a 23-6 technical fall at 4:23, Berry work tilts to a 22-6 technical fall at 4:12 and Sellers got a takedown into a butcher in 34 seconds.
In the championship semifinals,
Josiah Perez rolled to a 13-3 major decision. Labay trailed 8-0 at one point but came back to pin at 2:54. Benesh fought hard in a 6-1 decision. Young was down 5-3 and tried a throw but slipped off and lost a takedown to go down 8-3. Ege lost an 8-0 major decision. Messenger got roughed up in a 17-1 technical fall loss. Mowry and Elder were pinned, Mowry in a half nelson at 4:53 and Elder in a half nelson at 1:39.
In the championship matches, Josiah Perez missed on a chicken wing attempt in the third and was fighting for a takedown as time expired in a tough 5-4 win. LaBay lost a double leg takedown in the third period in an 11-2 major decision loss. Benesh had an early lead but spent most of the match on the bottom and was ridden hard, losing 9-6.
In third-place matches, Messenger scored a takedown in a cradle at 3:09, Young hit a double leg takedown with a big lift and found the back at 2:56, and Elder had backpoints in a cradle before he took a wing over and pinned at 3:41. Mowry lost by medical default. Ege was turned in a cradle at 1:39.
Photo provided by Randy Holland
Oregon wrestlers and coaches pose for a photo after winning the 2025 Randy Bowman Invitational Wrestling Tournament on Jan. 25 in LeRoy.
Oregon boys bowling team advances to state tournament
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
For the second time in the program’s 21-year history, the Oregon boys bowling team is headed to the state tournament.
The Hawks finished third Saturday, Jan. 25, at the Oregon Sectional at the Plum Hollow Family Center in Dixon.
Oregon entered the day as the No. 14-ranked team in the state and finished third behind No. 1-ranked Harlem and the hometown Dixon Dukes.
“It was yet again another well-rounded team effort with Oregon’s highest finishing individual being Gavvin Surmo with a 14th-place finish,” Hawks coach Al Nordman said. “The day was carried by the overall strength of the entire team’s performance.”
The Hawks started the day with a good 1,048 total, but found themselves in ninth place in an extremely high scoring field.
Oregon rebounded in the second game and rose to third place and then moved into second place in Game 3 until Dixon caught the Hawks in the sixth and final game.
Oregon finished with a 6,105 total, 189 pins ahead of the cut line for advancing to state.
Oregon was led by Surmo with a 1,297 series, followed by Caleb Brooks (1,248), RJ Keene (1,228), Ethan Smice (1,206), Matthew Stahl (786 series, four games) and Caleb Ehrler (340 series, two games).
“In the process of qualifying, Gavvin set a school record, which may even be a state record, as the first Oregon bowler to advance to the individual state finals as both a onehanded bowler in 2023 and a two-handed bowler in 2025,” Nordman said.
The state final is Friday, Jan. 31, and Saturday, Feb. 1, at St. Clair Bowl in Fairview Heights, which is near St. Louis.
Wedding Expo 2025
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2025 12PM - 3PM
Brian Hurley
Oregon bowler RJ Keane is pleased with a shot Jan. 25 during the Oregon Sectional at Plum Hollow Family Center in Dixon.
Oregon bowlers punch their ticket to state tournament
Andy Colbert GUEST VIEW
Competing against much larger schools, the Oregon boys bowling team managed to punch its ticket to the state tournament for only the second time in school history. The Hawks took third at the sectional to earn one of the sectional’s four state berths.
Here are the enrollment figures of the other top-placing squads at the sectional: champion Harlem (1,928), runner-up Dixon (760), fourth-place finisher Huntley (2,996) Yorkville (1,974) and Hononegah (1,911). Oregon’s enrollment is 417 students and it’s a co-op with Winnebago (enrollment of 412 students in the 2022-23 school year). Once again, it shows how masterly Oregon coach Al Nordman is in getting the most out of a smaller pool of potential bowlers.
A key to reaching state for the Hawks was balanced scoring. Their top four bowlers all had series in the 1,200s and two others combined for a score of 1,126.
Similar to high school golf, that is all you’re looking for in state advancement – consistency in your scorers. Those five marks added up to a 6,105 and a safe cushion of more than 100 pins from fifth place.
With February on our doorstep, it’s not too early to look at the IHSA basketball postseason. Girls regionals start in a couple of weeks and the boys start a week after the girls.
To me, that is a harbinger of spring and an indication of how fast winter is moving along.
The big story continues to be an impending Class 2A collision between the girls from Byron and Stillman Valley in the sectional. Last week’s Associated Press rankings had them tied for No. 2 behind Breese Central.
Also ranked in the top 10 from that sectional was Aurora Central Catholic. Whichever team emerges from that sectional likely will face No. 4 Peoria Notre Dame.
The area 2A boys is much milder with the Sterling Supersectional the weakest in the state.
Far and away, the toughest sectional has No. 2 Belleville Althoff, No. 5 Pickneyville and No. 6 Benton. Breese Central is No. 10 and may not even make it out of the subsectional.
Like the Byron and Stillman Valley girls, in 1A boys, highly regarded Pecatonica and Eastland are on the same path to a sectional final, with Pecatonica already owning two wins over Eastland.
Eastland lost by 31 points the first time after trailing 16-0 to start the game. In round two, Eastland fell behind early again, 24-6, with Pecatonica scoring on every possession in the first quarter.
That’s almost impossible to overcome, but Eastland only lost 63-55.
Beating a quality team three times is difficult. The pressure will be on Pecatonica as Eastland has proved capable of being at its level.
If those two end up in the sectional final, the gym at Pecatonica will be one of the most raucous sites in the state March 7.
For the record, the 2A girls sectional final will be in Rock Falls.
Did you know that the fastest growing high school sport for girls is wrestling? Before 2018, only six states sanctioned it. Now, 45 states, including Illinois, have sanctioned it.
In the past decade, participation numbers have skyrocketed to 50,000. That’s 20% of the amount the boys have, but a huge increase.
This year will be the fourth girls wrestling state tournament in what is still a one-class system.
Next week will be the boys wrestling regionals with Byron hosting in Class 1A. Last year, the Tigers scored a dramatic 196-195 win over perennial favorite Lena-Winslow.
An up-and-coming Oregon program looks to come away with a title. Byron also is in contention.
After Mark Andrews of the Baltimore Ravens dropped a game-tying two-point conversion attempt against Buffalo in the AFC playoffs, Bills’ fans responded with a sympathetic heart. More than $100,000 was raised for Andrews’ favorite charity.
The “Bills Mafia,” as their fandom is known, wanted to offer support to Andrews, who has received much abuse from his own fans after dropping the pass and also fumbling earlier in the game. A Bills fan started the GoFundMe account after seeing the dis-
tasteful comments toward Andrews. This isn’t new for Buffalo fans. They have made similar donations to opponents in the past.
I caught the second half of the Forreston and Oregon boys basketball game and came away impressed with the performance of Kendall Erdmann, who had 35 points.
The game was tied 27-27 at halftime before Erdmann took over and led his team to a 73-50 win. The Hawks had no answer for Erdmann nor the rest of the Cardinals, who out-executed Oregon on both sides of the court in the second half with precision passing, hot shooting and being in the right spot on defense.
Credit to Mickey Probst for taking three defensive charges. I always remember in basketball practice how much it meant to our coaches when someone would sacrifice their body for a charge, especially against a big, bulky guy.
• Andy Colbert, an avid runner, is a sports writer for Shaw Local covering high school sports in Ogle County.
Brian Hurley
Oregon bowler Ethan Smice is congratulated after a good shot Jan. 25 at the Oregon Sectional at Plum Hollow Family Center in Dixon
Continued from page 11
“Give Luke [Ravlin, Dixon’s coach] credit, he had a good defensive game plan. They took away the things that we’ve had success with lately, so give credit to him and give credit to his kids for executing very well,” Byron coach Eric Yerly said.
Offensively, poise proved to be key. After struggling against Byron’s pressure defense the first time they played, the Duchesses (19-4, 5-0 BNC) kept their composure and controlled things on both ends of the court.
The Duchesses assisted on 13 of their 17 baskets – including all seven in the second half – and outrebounded Byron 33-24.
McGowan was the spark plug for Dixon, scoring 11 of her gamehigh 16 points in the first half while also leading her team with nine rebounds, five assists, five steals and three blocked shots. Hargrave (8 points, 4 rebounds) and Dambman (11 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals) each hit a pair of 3-pointers to highlight second-half
surges and Hallie Williamson added eight points and two blocks.
“We still got shots we wanted, but it felt like we missed six or seven layups early in the first half and now it’s a tight game,” Yerly said. “And give them credit, we cheated a little on Williamson [defensively] and I don’t think she really drilled us, but their other kids … when you do that, it opens up the 3 and we give those kids credit because they knocked them down tonight.
“It’s always a big game when we play each other, and it was a sectional final-type atmosphere, which was good to play in. There’s no bad losses. We’ve won so many games in a row, a loss like this –you don’t want to lose – but sometimes it’s what you need to kind of get you going for the final stretch and the postseason.”
Malia Morton led Byron with 11 points, three steals and a block, and Brynn Green added seven points and three rebounds. Aubrie Fuller and Layni Marchini (3 rebounds) each scored four points, Kenzie Lemke scored the Tigers’ final five points, and Karsyn Bielskis added three rebounds and three assists.
Now Available
Brian Hurley
Dixon’s Morgan Hargrave defends against Byron’s Macy Groharing on Jan. 25.
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS ROUNDUP
Boys basketball
Forreston 73, Oregon 50: Kendall Erdmann scored 35 points in the Cardinals’ 73-50 win. Erdmann hit five 3-pointers and dished out six assists. Mickey Probst dropped in 10 points for Forreston, followed by Jonathan Milnes and Connor Politsch with nine and Brendan Greenfield with eight. Probst drew three charges in the second half and Politsch had five assists. Kade Girton and Cooper Johnson led Oregon with 14 points each, followed by Nile Campos with eight and Jackson Caposey with seven.
Amboy 57, Polo 47: Ezra Parker led the Clippers with 19 points in the win. Quinn Leffelman (15 points) and Bryson Deery (10) also reached double figures for Amboy. Gus Mumford led Polo with 21 points and Eli Perez had 14.
Forreston 53, Lena 44: Kendall Erdmann scored 17 points and Brendan Greenfield had 16 for Forreston in the win. Erdmann also had seven assists.
Dakota 70, Forreston 58: Kendall Erdmann led the Cardinals with 22 points in the road setback. Brendan Greenfield (16 points) and Connor Politsch (12) also were in double figures for Forreston.
Oregon 61, Indian Creek 51: The Hawks improved to 13-12 with the road win.
Polo 48, West Carroll 45: The Marcos held off the Thunder for the win at Fulton’s Eric Ottens Shootout.
Oregon 59, Amboy 45: The Hawks (1212) were led by Cooper Johnson, Keaton Salsburg and Kade Girton, who all scored 13 points. Nole Campos added 11
points for Oregon in the balanced effort.
with 11 points each.
23: Hannah Vinnedge led the Cardinals with 11
points in the win.
Lena-Winslow 50, Polo 49 : Polo junior Cam Jones eclipsed 1,000 points for her career and flirted with a quadruple-double, scoring 14 points with 11 rebounds, eight assists and eight steals. Katelyn Rockwood added 13 points in the setback for Polo.
Oregon 60, Fulton 52 (OT): Aniyah Sarver led Oregon with 16 points and Ella Dannhorn scored six of her 14 in overtime in the home win. Breleigh Hayton’s 14 points led Fulton, which outscored Oregon 18-10 in the fourth quarter to force extra time tied at 46.
Newman 56, Oregon 29: Lucy Oetting led the way for the Comets with 23 points, including five 3-pointers. Aniyah Sarver led the Hawks (9-12) with 10 points.
Pecatonica 49, Forreston 15: Alice Kobler led Forreston with 10 points.
Girls bowling
Oregon victorious: Oregon traveled to Park Lanes in Loves Park to take on Rockford Lutheran and came away with a 1,632-1,579 victory. The contest was played 4-on-4 as both teams were short bowlers. In what was a complete team effort, Oregon was able to counter Addisyn Herbst’s big night for Lutheran. Herbst had a 580 series. The Lady Hawks were led by Carli Bailey with a 479 series (191, 149, 139), followed closely by Katlyn Miller with a 440 series, Savannah Nagy with a 437 series – including an Oregon high game of 193 – and Delilia Anaya with a 276 series. The win raised Oregon’s record to 6-4 on the season.
Eddie Jones and Quinn Leffelman led Amboy (8-12)
Girls basketball Forreston 38, Kirkland-Hiawatha
Oregon’s Kade Girton drives to the basket Jan. 25.
Photos by Earleen Hinton
Forreston’s Kendall Erdmann drives to the basket and is fouled by Oregon’s Tucker O’Brien.
Forreston’s Jonathan Milnes shoots over an Oregon defender Jan. 25.
Ogle C ounty,
IL FARMLAND
AUCTIO
N
- or - email: samantha.harazin@bacu.org
Mt Morris Police Department Mt. Morris, IL POLICE OFFICER
The Mt. Morri s Board of Police Commissioners will be conducting an examination to establish an eligibility list for the position of Police Of fice r.
Current Starting salary: $49,161.00 per Union con tr act
The current contract is subject to change as of May 01, 2025.
The Mt Morris Police Department offers many benefits including: Insurance- Dental/Vision and Health
IMRF Pension benefits
Uniforms and equipment supplied by department
Paid-Time Off including Vacation, Holiday, Sick, Personal Leave Accruals, and Earned Compensatory Time. Possible take home patrol vehicle
Applicants must be 21 but less than 35 years of age (except as provided by Illinois State Statute.)
Applicants must be a U.S Citizen.
Applicants must possess a high school diploma or equivalent
Applicants shall possess a valid Illinois Driver's License.
Applicants must possess a valid Illinois Firearms Owner's Identification Card (FOID)
Applicants must not have been convicted of a domestic battery, felony, or any crime of moral turpitude
Applicants must possess a valid NIPSTA card and to be issued within 6 months of the written exam date
P.O.W.E.R. Test Cards issued by NIPSTA, Triton Community College or Joliet Junior College will be accepted. Applicants must present a valid POWER Test card NO LATER than the written exam date (March 08, 2025, at 9:00 am)
Applications can be obtained at the Police Department, 105 W Lincoln St., Mt. Morris, Illinois, Monday - Friday 8:00 am till 4:00 pm. Applications will be accepted until February 10, 2025 at 4:00 pm
The Village of Mt. Morris is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We dnes da y, February 5th, 2025 at 11:00 AM
Sale to be held at: Polo Senior Center 101 E. Mason St. Polo, IL 61064 SELLING AS 1 PARCELOPEN TENANCY FOR 2025
Section 23 Buffalo Township, Ogle County, IL 77.604 Surveyed Acres of Farmland Only
For complete listing of survey, sale bill, maps, tax info and terms & conditions, etc. visit www.lennybryso nauction eer.com
For Information Contact: Owner, Frances Dippel Irrevocable Tru st Lenny Bryson - Auctioneer Alan Dippel, Trustee Polo, IL 61064 Attorney, M Thomas Suits Ph) 815-946-4120 Ph) 815-946-2276
S. 5th St., Oregon, IL 61061, Via Zoom, on July 24, 2025 at 9:00 AM.
Assessment Number : N/A
Warrant No.: N/A
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
CONTACT THE COUNTY CLERK
TAX DEED NO.:
2025TX4
FILED: 1/13/2025
TAKE NOTICE
County of Ogle
Date Premises
Sold:
November 2, 2022
Certificate No.: 2021-00060
Sold for General Taxes of (Year): 2021 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment
Number : N/A
Warrant No.: N/A
Installmen t No.: N/A THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
You may be presen t at this hearing, but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time
YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIAT ELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY
Redemption can be made at any time on or before July 9, 2025 by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the Count y Clerk in Oregon, Illinois FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE COUNTY CLERK 105 South 5th Street Suite 104 Oregon, IL 61061 (815) 732-1110
Property Located at: 107 West Center Street, Unit 3, Mount Morris, IL 61054
Legal Description or Property Index No.:
08-27-435-001
This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on July 9, 2025. The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the County Clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming. This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this prope rty if redemption is not made on or before July 9, 2025.
This matter is set for hear ing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in 106 S. 5th St., Oregon, IL 61061, Via Zoom, on July 24, 2025 at 9:00 AM.
You may be presen t at this hearing, but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time
YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM
IMMEDIAT ELY TO
Installmen t No.: N/A
THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
Property Located at: 404 East North Park Drive, Byron, IL 61010
Legal Description or Property Index No.: 09-11-176-019
105 South 5th
Street
Suite 104
Oregon, IL 61061 (815) 732-1110
Myriad Capital LLC Purchaser or Assignee
January 16, 2025
Raymond Beardin
Raymond Beardin
Occupant
Mandi L. Arbuckle
Myriad Capital LLC Purchaser or Assignee
January 16, 2025
J. Christian T. Grogan
J. Christian T. Grogan Occupant
Ivan N. Grogan
Elizabeth Gonzales Occupant Occupant Occupant
James P. O'Connor
James P. O'Connor
Laura J. Cook, County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois Claimants, Judgment Creditors, and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as "Unknown Owners" "Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots" 10686-949587
January 31, 2025 February 7, 14, 2025 949587
TAX DEED NO.: 2025TX5 FILED: 1/13/2025 TAKE NOTICE County of Ogle Date Premises Sold:
November 2, 2022
Certificate No.: 2021-00068 Sold for General Taxes of (Year): 2021 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number : N/A
Warrant No.: N/A
Installmen t No.: N/A
THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT
TAXES
Property Located at: 404 East North Park Drive, Byron,
This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on July 9, 2025. The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchas er at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the County Clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming. This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this prope rty if redemption is not made on or before July 9, 2025.
This matter is set for hear ing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in 106 S. 5th St., Oregon, IL 61061, Via Zoom, on July 24, 2025 at 9:00 AM.
You may be presen t at this hearing, but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMME DIAT ELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY Redemption can be made at any time on or before July 9, 2025 by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the Count y Clerk in Oregon, Illinois FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE COUNTY CLERK 105 South 5th Street Suite 104 Oregon, IL 61061 (815) 732-1110
Myriad Capital LLC Purchaser or Assignee
January 16, 2025
Ra d Beardi
Central Bank Illinois
Central Bank
Illinois
Laura J. Cook, County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois Claimants, Judgment Creditors, and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “Unknown Owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots” 10716-949591
January 31, 2025 February 7, 14, 2025 949591
TAX DEED NO.: 2025TX7 FILED: 1/13/2025
TAKE NOTICE
County of Ogle
Date Premises Sold:
November 2, 2022
Certificate No.: 2021-00014
Sold for General Taxes of (Year): 2021 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number : N/A
Warrant No.: N/A Installmen t No.: N/A THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
Property Located at: 6913 West Wagner Road, German Valley, IL 61039
Legal Description or Property Index No.: 03-09-100-001
This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on July 9, 2025. The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchas er at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from
from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchas er at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the County Clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming. This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this prope rty if redemption is not made on or before July 9, 2025. This matter is set for hear ing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in 106 S. 5th St., Oregon, IL 61061, Via Zoom, on July 24, 2025 at 9:00 AM. You may be presen t at this hearing, but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time
YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIAT ELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY Redemption can be made at any time on or before July 9, 2025 by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the Count y Clerk in Oregon, Illinois FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE COUNTY CLERK 105 South 5th Street Suite 104 Oregon, IL 61061 (815) 732-1110
Private Equity Group, LLC Purchaser or Assignee
January 16, 2025
Erik Pet erson a/k/a
Erik E. Peterson
Erik Pet erson a/k/a
Erik E. Peterson Occupant
Ashley L. Lower
Jamie Marie
Armstrong
First Mid Bank & Trust, N.A. as Successor to Blackhawk Bank
First Mid Bank & Trust, N.A. as Successor to Blackhawk Bank
Laura J. Cook, County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois Claimants, Judgment Creditors, and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as "Unknown Owners" "Unknown owners or parties interested in said
County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois Claimants, Judgment Creditors, and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as "Unknown Owners" "Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots" 10716-949590
January 31, 2025
February 7, 14, 2025 949590
TAX DEED NO.: 2025TX8 FILED: 1/13/2025 TAKE NOTICE County of Ogle Date Premises Sold:
November 2, 2022
Certificate No.: 2021-00105 Sold for General Taxes of (Year): 2021 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number : N/A Warrant No.: N/A Installmen t No.: N/A THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
Property Located at: 501 South Green Avenue, Polo, IL 61064
Legal Description or Property Index No.: 14-16-265-005
This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on July 9, 2025. The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the County Clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming. This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this prope rty if redemption is not made on or before July 9, 2025. This matter is set for hear ing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in 106 S. 5th St. Oregon
filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this prope rty if redemption is not made on or before July 9, 2025. This matter is set for hear ing in the Circuit Court of Ogle County in 106 S. 5th St., Oregon, IL 61061, Via Zoom, on July 24, 2025 at 9:00 AM. You may be presen t at this hearing, but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time
YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIAT ELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY
Redemption can be made at any time on or before July 9, 2025 by applying to the County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois at the Office of the Count y Clerk in Oregon, Illinois FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE COUNTY CLERK 105 South 5th Street Suite 104 Oregon, IL 61061 (815) 732-1110
Private Equity Group, LLC Purchaser or Assignee
January 16, 2025
Charles William Jones
Occupant
Jorge Percival Newberry as R/A for AHP Capital Management, LLC AHP Capital Management, LLC as Administ rator of American Homeowner
Preservation Trust Series 2015A + and American Homeowner
Preservation Trust Series AHP
Servicing Jorge Percival Newberry as R/A for AHP Capital Management, LLC AHP Capital Management, LLC as Administrator o f American Homeowner
Preservation Trust Series 2015A + and American Homeowner
Preservation Trust Series AHP
Servicing
Miller Berger, LLC as Attorneys in 24-CV-276 Oak Harbor Capital LLC
Erostylis, LLC Land Home Financial Services, Inc. Magerick, LLC Illinois Corporation Service Company as R/A for Magerick, LLC Magerick, LLC
Laura J. Cook, County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois
Erostylis, LLC Land Home Financial Services, Inc. Magerick, LLC Illinois Corporation Service Company as R/A for Magerick, LLC Magerick, LLC
Laura J. Cook, County Clerk of Ogle County, Illinois Claimants, Judgment Creditors, and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as "Unknown Owners" "Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots" 10716-949588
January 31, 2025
February 7, 14, 2025 949588
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, IL LINOIS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ERIC J. NORTEN, Deceased 2024 PR 58 CL AIM NOTICE
Notice is given to creditors of the death of Eric J Norten of 403 S Griswold St., #4, Woosung, Ogle County, Illinois. Letters of office were issued to Kelly Wagner, as Independent Administrator, whose attorney of record is Darla A. Foulker, Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger & Considine, 114 E. Everett St., Suite 300, Dixon, Illinois 61021. The estate will be administered without court supervision, unless under section 28-4 of the Probate Act (755,ILCS 5/28-4) any interested person terminates independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the clerk.
Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court at 106 S 5th Street, Suite #300, Oregon, IL 61061, or with the representative, or both, on or before the date which is six (6) months after the date of the first publication of this Claim Notice, or, if mailing or delivering of a notice from the representative is required by section 18-3 of the Probate Act of 1975, the date stated in that notice. Any claim not
(6) months after the date of the first publication of this Claim Notice, or, if mailing or delivering of a notice from the representative is required by section 18-3 of the Probate Act of 1975, the date stated in that notice. Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.
By: Kelly Wagner, Independent Administrator
Darla A. Foulker Ehrmann Gehlbach Badger & Considine, LLC 114 E. Everett St., Suite 300 Dixon, IL 61021 815-288-4949 foulker@egbclaw. com
