Find out how local teams fared in baseball, softball, girls soccer and track and field / 9
25 years in prison Byron man sentenced for predatory criminal sexual assault of two girls / 3
Hinton
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Breakfast with the Easter Bunny is April 19 in Mt. Morris
The Mt. Morris Moose lodge will host Breakfast with the Easter Bunny from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, April 19, at the lodge, 101 Moose Drive.
The free breakfast includes pancakes, scrambled eggs, biscuits and gravy. Freewill donations are welcome.
The lodge’s annual Easter Egg Hunt will begin at 11:30 a.m.
For more information, call 815-734-4161.
Leaf River Lions offer breakfast with the Easter Bunny on April 19
The Leaf River Lions Club will serve breakfast from 7 to 10 a.m. Saturday, April 19, at the Bertolet Memorial Building, 103 W. Second St., Leaf River, followed by an Easter Egg Hunt at 10 a.m. in the park (weather permitting).
The breakfast menu includes pancakes, waffles, French toast, Eickman’s breakfast sausage, scrambled eggs, applesauce, orange juice, milk and coffee.
The Easter Bunny will arrive at 9 a.m.
MT. MORRIS LIBRARY
Library closed April 19
The library will be closed Saturday, April 19, for spring cleaning.
Library hours
Library hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.
School’s Out Spring Craft, 2 to 6 p.m. Monday, April 21
Drop by with the kids to create a fun spring craft. We will have all the materials to make a sand art magnet.
Read with therapy dog Holly, Monday, April 28
Holly, a local therapy dog, will be here on
For more details, vist the Lions’ Facebook page at leafriverlionsclub or email leafriver-
the fourth Monday of each month from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in 15-minute time slots. You can register a child for a time slot using the link in the Facebook Events page. This program is free for anyone, but you must register.
Mocktails For Fun! 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 14
Summer is coming and that means family gatherings and outdoor fun. Mocktails are a wonderful, inclusive way to share in the fun. Come to the library to learn how to make and create some easy and delicious mocktails for your next gathering. All supplies will be provided
MT. MORRIS SENIOR & COMMUNITY CENTER NEWS
Diamond Painting, 11 a.m., Friday, April 18. No experience is necessary. Paintings will be available to buy.
Jam Session and Lunch, 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 23. Enjoy music by local
CORRECTIONS
musicians and then stay for lunch. Cost is $8 for lunch ($3 discount for members).
Community Game Night, 6 p.m. Thursday, April 24. We have a selection of games or bring one from home.
Accuracy is important to the Polo Tri-County Press. Please call errors to our attention by email at news@oglecountynews.com.
lionsclub@yahoo.com.
– Shaw Local News Network
including drink tastings and recipes to take home. Sign up using the link on our Facebook Events page.
Ink with a Friend, 5 p.m. Monday, May 12 14
The library will offer a card-making class with local crafter Liz Gullett. You will get all the materials to make two beautiful cards to take home. Stop by to see the samples. There is a $5 fee when you register. Registration is limited so call the library to reserve a spot.
Lego Night, 6 p.m. Thursday, May 15
Bring the family out for some awesome brick building.
Friday Flix, 6 p.m. April 2. Join us to watch “Ozzy and May.” Free popcorn provided. You are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks. The Center is located at 9 E. Front St. in Mt Morris.
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The Leaf River Lions Club’s breakfast with the Easter Bunny is Saturday, April 19.
Byron man sentenced to 25 years in prison for predatory criminal sexual assault of 2 girls
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – A Byron man who was found guilty three years ago of sexually assaulting two young girls in 2004 and 2008 was sentenced to a total of 25 years in prison after an emotional hearing in a packed courtroom at the Ogle County Judicial Center.
Duane Upchurch, 60, received two consecutive 12-year, six-month sentences in the Illinois Department of Corrections despite pleas from his attorney that lesser sentences were warranted based on his age, medical condition and no previous criminal history.
The two victims that Upchurch was found guilty of assaulting tearfully told Ogle County Judge John “Ben” Roe that he had scarred them for life and was a “predatory monster” who should be put behind bars.
“How do you quantify the impact of abuse,” one of the women asked while reading her written victim statement. “As an 8-year-old, he made me feel disgusting. I struggled with self worth, depression ... crippling anxiety.
“He abused and traumatized numerous children. The justice here today will not fix the damage,” she continued, urging Roe to put Upchurch “away from anyone he can harm.”
The other woman said Upchurch assaulted her numerous times.
“Duane Upchurch raped me on many occasions when I was 5, 6 years old,” she said, looking at Upchurch as he sat with his attorneys.
On one occasion she said she was sitting with Upchurch in his green pickup waiting for his son when the assault occurred.
“I will never forget that,” she said.
Upchurch was found guilty in May 2022 of two counts of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child in 2004 and 2008, both Class X felonies, and two counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, Class 2 felonies, with both girls being under the age of 13 when the crimes occurred.
Upchurch was found not guilty of two counts of predatory criminal sexual assault – one in July 2005 and 2008 and the other in September 2004 and 2008.
Upchurch was arrested Aug. 8, 2019, by Ogle County sheriff’s deputies after
an investigation by the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office that began in March 2019. He was charged in August 2019 for the offenses that prosecutors said occurred in September 2004 and 2008.
Duane Upchurch
Upchurch posted bond and was released pending his trial in 2022. He has been in custody in the Ogle County Jail since he was found guilty.
Roe presided over the April 2022 bench trial and rendered his verdicts in 2023. Upchurch’s sentencing hearing was delayed several times for post-trial motions and responses.
About a dozen people were in the courtroom in support of the victims April 11 while about 21 came to show their support for Upchurch.
Victims testify
One of the victims told the court it took her 19 years before she could face coming forward about the incidents.
“The abuse and rape has shifted everything for me,” she said. “I’m telling my truth today to protect other children. He is a vile child predator. I am no longer a weak, scared little girl.
“This predatory monster deserves life behind bars. He has a sick and disgusting attraction to children,” she said.
A 28-year-old man, testifying for the prosecution as a witness in the aggravation phase of the sentencing hearing, said he was sexually assaulted by Upchurch when he was 5 years old. The man said Upchurch physically, emotionally and sexually assaulted and abused him when he was left in Upchurch’s care when his mother was working.
“I was being victimized by Duane Upchurch,” he said. “He would take me into my room or his room or sometimes the garage. He found a way in private. He would cover my face with a towel and take my clothes off.
“I was 5 at the time and he was telling me to never tell anyone ... or else. I was scared. As a 5-year-old, I just knew that would not be OK if I ever did tell anyone. It was his way or the highway.”
The man said he finally told his biological father about the incidents on Christmas Eve 2003 and moved from the home where he resided with his mother and Upchurch and others. He said he spoke with deputies and the state’s attorney’s office about the incidents, but charges were not filed.
The man said he decided to contact the state’s attorney’s office when he heard charges had been filed involving other children.
“When I found out there were other victims I wanted to help,” the man said.
Upchurch’s attorney, Stephen Komie of Chicago, questioned the alleged abuse and suggested it had been introduced to the man after therapy sessions.
“Is that the first time you had these memories when you were in counseling,” Komie asked.
The man said he did attend therapy sessions for the abuse. Komie questioned the man’s remembrance of details when he was only 4 or 5 years old and hinted that divorce proceedings had played a part in the abuse allegations.
“I remember a lot of what happened in that house,” the man said.
“Do you remember what was on the table for your fourth birthday?” countered Komie, prompting an objection from Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock.
“Argumentative,” said Rock, characterizing Komie’s questioning.
“Sustained,” Roe ruled.
Under redirect questioning by Rock, the man said he went to therapy after he told his dad what had happened.
Komie presented one witness in mitigation – Dr. Pedro De Guzman, a physician who examined Upchurch in the Ogle County Jail’s clinic in March.
Guzman, an internist, said Upchurch had high blood pressure and other health concerns that could result in a stroke or heart attack if not treated correctly.
When asked by Komie to give a prognosis for Upchurch, Guzman replied: “It would be a bad prognosis.”
“If he were to be sentenced to 10 or more years in prison,” Komie asked.
“I don’t think he would survive it,” Guzman replied. “He will progressively decline.”
Komie asked Guzman if he was recommending Upchurch be sent to a
prison that has hospital services.
“Yes, but I think he needs more than that,” Guzman replied.
“You have no experience whatsoever with the care given in prisons,” Rock said to Guzman in cross examination, adding that Upchurch’s “conditions” were not unusual for a person of his age.
Under redirect questioning by Komie, Guzman agreed that “medical care was generally not as good as it is on the outside.”
Komie then attempted to call four people to the stand to read written statements. Mitigation witnesses can provide testimonies during the sentencing phase of a criminal case in an attempt to offer insights into the defendant’s character and the circumstances surrounding the offense.
Rock objected to the individuals being allowed to read the written statements, arguing they should be called as mitigation witnesses and be subject to cross examination.
Komie disagreed.
“They just want to read their statements,” Komie told Roe.
“That is not proper procedure,” countered Rock, adding that state law only allows victims to read statements during sentencing hearings. “There is no statute for this – only for victims.”
Roe agreed with Rock and said the written statements could be given to him to review along with all other materials before making his decision.
Attorney arguments
Rock said lives had been forever changed by the actions of the defendant.
“They [victims] are haunted by what happened to them at such a young age,” Rock said. “He repeatedly raped them.”
He said the victims were “recounting the horrors” while Upchurch “focuses on multiple women who he says wanted to hurt him.”
“He takes no responsibility,” Rock said. “This defendant took away their innocence at a very young age. We demand that this defendant never have access to a child again.”
Rock recommended Upchurch be sentenced to 25 years in prison on each of the Class X offenses and four to six years on the other charges.
On to the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
After our delightful visit with the middle school student, we headed for the lunchroom in the cafe at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. It was a small cafe and hardly anyone was there. We got our sandwich and started to think about where we were going in the afternoon. Suddenly, I heard this baby’s little voice and I knew it was the same little guy that had been eating two nights earlier in Williamsburg at Shields Tavern. I looked over and I was correct. The same little family.
When we left, we went over to the couple with the children and I complimented them on how good that little toddler was the evening we were at Shields Tavern. They laughed and said they seemed to be following us in our travels. It is difficult when traveling with small children and they can be a bit cranky in the evening. It was a nice visit and then we headed on.
It was time to visit the inside exhibits, see another movie and then drive around the battlefield. We stopped to see a large monument dedicating the battle and by that time we were tired. It was time for ice cream and we found a little shop downtown overlooking the
POLO HISTORY
Betty Obendorf
York River near Chesapeake Bay.
The next day we drove to Manassas National Battlefield Park. This was dealing with the Civil War and was an older park. We saw an older movie that was incredible and very graphic. This was the Bull Run battle in which people carried picnic baskets and went out to see the battle. Hard to believe.
Mrs. Henry’s house was nearby and she was bedridden and blind. They tried to carry her out on a mattress, but it was too late and they had to bring her back in. She did not survive the battle and we looked at a large monument in her honor.
Little did she know that years later we would be talking about her and looking at a replica of her little house. She went down in history. We drove around the battlefield and then headed for Winchester and wedding festivities.
Before I get into the town of Winchester, I need to explain what a trifle
One was called a trifle and made in a footed clear glass bowl. It would have layers of pieces of cake, pudding with cool whip and berries on the top. They never had liquor in them. They were delicious. The cake could be angel food or pound cake and there were different kinds of pudding.
What I had in Williamsburg at the Shields Tavern was an individual trifle and my glass was like a parfait glass but had more of a point at the bottom rather than being rounded. On the farm, I had many parfait glasses and one time I used them for 4-H. I had layers of red Jell-O and ice cream with cool whip and a cherry on top.
Joyce Bakener went home and her mother asked what Betty had served. She said, “I do not know what it was but it was fit for the president!” Of course, Lenora had to call me to see what on earth had I made!
is. Years ago when we had the fundraiser dinners for Habitat for Humanity and the political world, they would start with dessert auctions. You would bid on a dessert for your table. They were out-of-this-world desserts.
You can experiment with a trifle in a glass or in a bowl. Mine looked lovely at Shields Tavern and I enjoyed it.
• Betty Obendorf is a retired teacher and volunteer for the Polo Historical Society.
June 15, 1931: Oregon Flash to run Friday in track meet
The Rockford Register Republic newspaper ran this information about Carleton Crowell on Monday, June 15, 1931.
“Oregon, back home from a successful conquest in the National Interscholastic track and field meet in Chicago Saturday. Carleton Crowell of Oregon High School is training to compete Friday in the Midwest A. A. U. If he qualifies there, he will run in the 440-yard dash in the finals at Soldier Field, Chicago, June 27.
“Crowell, all-around football, basketball and track star here for the last four years, took first place in the first section of the National prep 440 Saturday, running the distance in 51 seconds flat. Crowell is the joint holder of the National High School 440 title.”
Crowell attended Oregon public schools, graduating in 1931. He finished second in the quarter mile at the state track meet in the spring of 1931.
Crowell continued to compete in track and field at the University of Wisconsin. After graduation from Wisconsin, he was the head coach at the U.S.
Military Academy at West Point, New York. A New York Times article said Army’s powerful track and field team defeated Navy at Shea Stadium for the Cadets’ fifth consecutive outdoor track victory over the Middies and a gratifying conclusion to coach Crowell’s 20th season with Army.
Oregon, Illinois, track and field has a wonderful record. Fifteen years before Crowell graduated from Oregon High School, two high school seniors from Oregon – Sherman Landers and Frank Loomis – competed during the spring of 1916 and won many of the interscholastic meets in the Midwest. At this time, colleges and universities sponsored these meets, which drew the best athletes in the Midwest.
Landers and Loomis entered an indoor meet at Northwestern and
were so at ease with their skills that in the jumps they simply would wait until the others had put up their best marks and say “put her up half a foot” and then clear the bar with ease.
They won first-place trophies at Northwestern, Bradley, the University of Minnesota, Beloit, University of Kansas, University of Michigan and the University of Chicago.
In many of these meets, Landers and Loomis set track records. They set at least 12 track records. On May 27, 1916, at the University of Minnesota, Landers set a world record in the pole vault at 12 feet, 8 inches. In the same meet, Loomis tied the world record in the 220-yard low hurdles.
Both men competed at the 1920 Summer Olympics in Antwerp, Belgium, with Loomis winning the 400 hurdles and Landers finishing fifth in the triple jump.
scored 27 points. At their next meet at Bradley Polytechnic, Landers won four events and Loomis won three.
The Peoria Journal said the pair
• Otto Dick is a retired teacher and has researched Ogle County history for several years.
Otto Dick
OGLE COUNTY HISTORY
Photo provided by Otto Dick Carleton Crowell was a 1931 graduate of Oregon High School.
Photo provided by Steven Obendorf Betty Obendorf digs into her nonalcoholic trifle during her tour of historical sites.
‘Dashers’ sprint to their choices to help Serenity Hospice and Home Ready, set, ‘Gogh’: Buyers dash
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – The ground rules were simple, but the excitement was a bit more complex: Wait until your number is called, move to the main table and team up with your helper, and then, on James Brown’s signal, make a dash to the artwork you really want.
That was the scene Wednesday, April 9, during Serenity Hospice and Home’s fourth annual Art Dash fundraiser at
River’s Edge Experience, 103 S. First St., Oregon.
Amanda Bordner of Oregon was more than ready when her number – called at random – was chosen. She broke into a big smile, leaped from her table in the middle of the packed room and headed to Brown. On his signal, she raced to an oil painting by the late artist Jan Harvey of Polo and claimed it.
“This one,” she said, smiling, as her assigned helper marked it sold and tagged it with Bordner’s name.
Across the room, Kelsey Rogers of Rock Falls sat with her two sisters, Stacy and Chelsy, when she was called to dash. She made a deliberate path to an applique quilt hanging by Sandie Copeland on a nearby wall.
With her win booked, Rogers returned to the table and happily cheered on her two sisters when their names were called.
The evening started with an art preview from 6 to 7 p.m., when ticket holders determined what they wanted to dash for as they mingled with the artists while enjoying appetizers crafted by chefs Susan, Michael and Bryce Maddox.
The event matches donated art from local residents with donors, all while raising funds to benefit Serenity’s patients and their families.
There were two ticket options available: dasher for $100 and spectator for $50. A random selection of three dashers were called at a time to race for their chosen artwork displayed on the surrounding walls and tables.
It wasn’t just the dashers having all the fun.
“It is such an honor to be able to support Serenity House in this way and have a fun evening, too. Thanks to all who made this possible,” said Cindy Winterfield, an artist.
Sponsor Alisa Patterson said she has contributed to Serenity for several years.
“This past fall, I never imagined having to actually use and experience Serenity,” Patterson said. “The organization, compassion, availability, education, support and genuine care is unwavering through families’ most difficult time. I could not be happier to continue my support to such an amazing organization.”
Photos by Earleen Hinton
A very happy Amanda Bordner of Oregon stands by the Jan Harvey painting she selected during Serenity Hospice and Home’s fourth annual Art Dash fundraiser April 9 at River’s Edge Experience in Oregon.
Chelsy Jones, Stacy Barber and Kelsey Rogers, three Janssen sisters who grew up in Oregon, attend Serenity Hospice and Home’s fourth annual Art Dash fundraiser April 9 at River’s Edge Experience in Oregon.
Poetry can provide positive experiences for children
What are your memories of poetry? Does the mere thought trigger bad feelings about a lengthy poem that you were required to dissect line by line in high school? Or do you have positive recollections of a favorite poet or of poems that you learned by heart and still can recite?
I love poetry because long ago my grandmother shared a poem with me about a girl who had trouble learning her multiplication facts. It is funny, has a surprise ending and I could relate to the topic. I was hooked. We can share the wonderful world of poetry with our own children and grandchildren, too.
In celebration of April as Poetry Month, let’s consider ways we can have positive experiences with poems with our children and grandchildren. There are many poems for children of all ages in a variety of styles and genres. You will find fiction, fantasy and nonfiction poetry. There are poems about many of the topics that interest children such as dinosaurs, space, weather or sports.
• ART DASH
Continued from page 5
Artist Karen Tucker donated an oil painting on linen titled “Castle Rock Wetlands.”
“The Art Dash is a fabulous event full of art, fun and great food,” Tucker said. “Serenity Hospice offers a service in our area that I’m happy to support.”
Merlin Hagemann, who along with his wife Cindy donated their venue for the event, said, “The art gets better year after year.”
Sponsor Gloria Fallon echoed that sentiment.
“Beauty with benefits! Art Dash provides an evening to showcase gallery quality art pieces while raising funds to support Serenity Hospice. [It’s] a beauty-filled event feeding body, mind and soul,” she said.
Last year’s event raised $30,000 for Serenity Hospice and Home, a nonprofit, “freestanding” organization founded in 1984.
“Serenity stands on the belief that everyone deserves to experience dignity, respect and comfort at the end of life,” according to the organization’s website. “This belief has guided us through the years of service as we have had the privilege to support countless patients and their
READING MATTERS
Mary Gardner
Young children especially love to hear the play on words and the rhythm and rhyme of poetry. That is why Dr. Seuss books with all the silly made-up rhymes are so popular. We can encourage playing with rhymes orally as well. We might say, “Do you want some juice moose?” or something silly like that as part of our day-to-day routines.
Poetry provides positive support for reluctant or struggling readers. First, there are many poems that are one page or less. A smaller amount of text to tackle can be motivational for these readers. Another important factor is there are many humorous poems written for children. Many of them are about school so the topics are familiar and children quickly recognize the humor. Reading texts that make us laugh makes reading enjoyable, which
improves attitudes toward reading and might increase motivation to read more.
There are many books that are written to be read together. Look for poems for two voices. They work well for reading practice while being fun. One popular author is Mary Ann Hoberman. Your librarian can help you find more. Poems also can be serious. Poets certainly write to express deep emotions about difficult topics. These kinds of poems can be an acceptable way for us to have conversations with our families about topics such as bullying, difficult relationships with friends or family, or even the death of a pet or a loved one.
We might consider trying our hand at writing poems. There are many forms and frames that are easily accessible on the internet. Poems do not have to rhyme, and they really can be any form you choose to try.
When you are working with a certain format such as haiku for example, you are limited to a certain number of syllables. This makes word choice very
families through one of life’s most challenging journeys.”
Serenity serves Boone, Carroll, DeKalb, Lee, Ogle, Stephenson, Whiteside and Winnebago counties, as well as the towns of Walnut and Ohio in Bureau County.
Serenity Home, just south of Oregon on Route 2, was established and accepted its first patient in April 2009.
The facility offers patients and their families a homelike environment while providing the full complement of hospice’s comfort-oriented care and services, including pain and symptom management, 24-hour nursing care, assistance with tasks of daily living, visits from volunteers, spiritual and psychosocial counseling for patients and their loved ones and bereavement care and support for surviving family members.
Upcoming fundraisers for the organization are:
• Snapdragons & Dragonflies Garden Luncheon Fundraiser, Saturday, May 10, Stronghold Brubaker Center, 1922 N. Route 2, Oregon
• Jonathon Knodle Memorial Golf Play Day, Saturday, June 14, PrairieView Golf Course, Byron. 8 a.m. shotgun start, lunch included
• Memorial Butterfly Release, 9 a.m. Saturday, June 28, Serenity Hospice & Home, 1658 S. Route 2, Oregon For information, visit serenityhospiceandhome.org.
important, so writing poems is a good way to build writing vocabulary. Writing poetry can be therapeutic. It allows you to express yourself on paper in a way that can help you work through your feelings in a healthy way. A poem written about a special celebration or a difficult life event might then be shared with family or others to further help us process the event.
Most public libraries have extensive collections of children’s poetry. Library staff are happy to help you find them. Take some time with your children or grandchildren and find a good book of poems and choose a few that you enjoy. You might gather your favorites in a notebook and add illustrations. Why not try to memorize one or two?
Read and enjoy poetry all year long and not just in April for Poetry Month.
• Mary Gardner is a retired teacher who specialized in reading and still is an instructor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at Northern Illinois University.
Earleen Hinton
Jan Conkrite of Woosung reacts as her number is selected at random, allowing her to choose an art piece during Serenity Hospice and Home’s fourth annual Art Dash fundraiser April 9 at River’s Edge Experience in Oregon. Conkrite is an artist who donated an oil on canvas painting to this year’s event.
Learn about Gokstad – a Viking ship – at ‘Those Were the Days’ on April 26
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
OREGON – A replica of a Viking ship that made its way to Chicago will be the topic at the “Those Were The Days” program at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 26, at the Oregon Depot, 400 Collins St.
Perry Straw, former executive of the Moody Radio Network, is a member of the Friends of the Viking Ship, a not-forprofit organization whose mission is to facilitate the preservation of the ship and advocate for its public display in a permanent museum setting with adequate security and climate control.
The Friends of the Viking Ship recently bought property in downtown Geneva so the organization can build a permanent museum home for the ship. Michael Olesen, a director for Friends of the Viking Ship and chairman of the Geneva Chamber of Commerce board, announced the purchase at the City Council meeting April 7.
The ship was built at Christen Christensen’s Framnes Shipyard in Sandefjord, Norway, in 1892-93. It was copied after the ancient Viking ship Gokstad, which was excavated in 1880.
The Gokstad had been called the most beautiful ship ever built.
The Viking ship sailed from Norway to Chicago via the Erie Canal and the Great Lakes. It became one of the great-
est attractions at the World’s Columbian Exposition, which took place in 1893 at Jackson Park in Chicago.
The Viking ship is about 78 feet long, 17 feet wide and 6.5 feet high from the bottom of the keel to the gunwale. Clinker built, its planks are fastened together with thousands of iron rivets. At sea, the Viking averaged 10 knots and the hull was observed to flex with the waves.
Straw was educated at Southeastern Bible College in Alabama and later attended and graduated from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. As soon as he arrived in Chicago, Straw became involved with the Chicago Gospel Tabernacle and started working in radio. In 1971, he became the administrator of the Broadcasting Services department for the Moody Radio Network. He was appointed director of Broadcast Services in 1988, which included overseeing the network’s computer development.
Straw was married to another Moody Bible Institute graduate, Lorraine Meland Straw. The couple became involved with The American Scandinavian Council, which in 1994 assumed responsibility of the 1893 Viking ship’s preservation and in 1996 brought the ship from Chicago to Good Templar Park in Geneva.
See VIKING SHIP, page 8
Photos provided by Michal Burnett
ABOVE: Bruce Andresen and Perry Straw Jr., co-chairman for the Viking ship project, stand by the ship in 2019. LEFT: This old photo shows the Viking ship when it sailed to Chicago and was part of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition.
Eagle’s Nest Art Group’s spring membership show opens April 26
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
OREGON – The Eagle’s Nest Art Group will open its annual Spring Membership Show with a reception from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 26, at its Conover Square gallery located on the second floor at 201 N. Third St., Oregon.
The art show also will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 27, Saturday, May 3, and Sunday, May 4.
The show contains more than 80 original pieces of art, including paintings, glass work, pottery, calligraphy, drawings, fiber art and works in wood.
Large and small prints will be available for sale.
The Eagle’s Nest Art Group has more than 90 members from the area including people from Oregon, Mt. Morris, Chana, Byron, Polo, Dixon,
• 25 YEARS IN PRISON
Continued from page 3
“We are well aware of the defendant’s age. The state does not want this defendant to be in the community ever again where he can perpetrate these horrors again,” Rock said.
Komie asked Roe to use sentencing guidelines from 2004 and argued that Upchurch had no previous criminal history.
“None exists,” Komie said, adding that a presentencing report had determined Upchurch to be a low risk to reoffend.
“We all know he will not get the best care in prison,” Komie said, referring to Upchurch’s age and classification as a geriatric inmate. “The state has totally failed geriatric prisoners. Any long sentence is basically a death sentence.”
Komie said a charge of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child does
• VIKING SHIP
Continued from page 7
The couple were among the founding members of Friends of the Viking Ship.
To accomplish its goal of a permanent museum home for the ship, Friends of the Viking Ship is raising
Forreston, Lindenwood, Rochelle, Hampshire, Ashton, Sterling, Rock Falls, Winnebago, Rockford, Sycamore, Pecatonica, Pearl City and Loves Park.
The show is dedicated to celebrating the long history of art in the area, according to a news release. The Eagle’s Nest Art Group was founded in 1957 to support the work of local artists and share art through hosting shows, offering programs and informal studio art sessions and conducting art classes.
“Artists will be on hand each day of the show to welcome you. Refreshments will be served,” Eagle’s Nest Art Group member Marsha Behrens said. “The shops of Conover Square will be open during show hours. The show is free and parking is plentiful.”
For more information about the group, call 815-732-7783.
not constitute a death sentence under Illinois law.
“That should be a factor in mitigation,” Komie argued. “There is solid medical evidence. ... There is good cause for a sentence less than 10 years.
“You have to balance both sides of this case,” Komie said to Roe. “There are 21 people here today to support Mr. Upchurch so he does not receive a harsh sentence.”
Komie asked Roe to attach Guzman’s medical report to Upchurch’s transfer papers.
“He has a medical condition. The Illinois Department of Corrections needs to be aware of that to prevent him from having a stroke or heart attack,” Komie said.
When asked by Roe if he wanted to make a statement to the court, Upchurch declined.
Judge’s sentence
Roe recessed the hearing for an hour
funds for the ship’s preservation and protection.
The Viking’s fabric canopy has been replaced several times. The dragon “head” and “tail” of the ship are in storage at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago.
Straw continues his involvement and volunteerism as an honorary member of the Friends of the Viking
MARIAN A. SCHNULLE
Born: October 12, 1928 in Sterling, IL
Died: April 6, 2025 in Oregon, IL
Marian A. Schnulle, age 96, passed away on Sunday, April 6th, 2025, at Oregon Living and Rehabilitation Center, Oregon, IL. Marian was born on October 12th, 1928 in Sterling, IL. She was the daughter of Herman and Frieda Wessels. She graduated from Sterling High School and Moline Public Hospital School of Nursing. Marian married Ed Schnulle Jr. on December 31st, 1950, in Sterling IL. Marian worked at a doctor’s office in Sterling as well as Pinecrest Nursing Home in Mt.Morris, IL. She was involved in Ogle County Extension and was an active member at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. Ed and Marian enjoyed traveling together and made many winter trips to warmer weather over the years. Marian also enjoyed crafting, sewing, quilting,
while he reviewed arguments, testimony and evidence presented at the hearing, including the victim witness statements and the written character statements.
He acknowledged that Upchurch had minimal criminal history.
“He has led a law-abiding life for a substantial time,” Roe said. “We did hear from victims that were here this afternoon and one other person. It’s all very relevant to me. There were powerful statements from the victims. I have to balance what is appropriate with what is just.
“This was an emotional case from the start to the finish,” Roe continued. “I do know the defendant has a lot of support here ... the state and what they represent – the people to my left, the victims and interested parties. It’s a full courtroom.”
Roe said he read through the written statements submitted by Upchurch’s family members and friends.
Ship group in Geneva.
For more information about this program or other Oregon Depot topics, call Roger Cain at 815-757-9715, Chris Martin at 815-742-8471 or Otto Dick at 815-440-0639.
The first Viking Ship tour of the season is set from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, April 19, at Good Templar Park, 528 East Side Drive.
gardening, and cooking/baking.
She is survived by three daughters, Marilyn (Don) Nelson, Polo, IL; Marcia (Joe) Flessner, Amboy, IL; and Marlys (Robert) Carpenter, Milledgeville, IL ; sister-in-law: Harriet Dambman, Milledgeville, IL; 10 grandchildren: Ryan (Robyn) Nelson, Renee (Mark) Boyle, Lori (Josh) Christen, Kimberly (Nick) Mumm, Kayla (BJ) Payne, Kelly (Gage) Borchelt, Derek (Katie) Flessner, Bridget Newcomer; Steven (Samantha) Blake, and Ralph Carpenter; 16 great grandchildren: Natalie, Logan, Samantha, Kendall, Lexi, Jeremiah, Laney, Gage, Abel, Blake, Teddy, Emma, Beau, Ivy, Aspen and Easton. Marian is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sister Bernice Ricklefs.
Funeral services are being held on Monday, April 14th, 2025 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Polo, IL. Visitation will be at 9:00am – prior to the service. Service will begin at 10:30 am with Pastor Scott Ralston officiating. Burial will be held in Oakwood Cemetery, Mt. Morris, IL. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name. Polo Family Funeral Home is handling all arrangements.
“There’s been lots of harm done to them, too,” Roe said. “I recognize that. And I weigh that with the lifelong trauma of the victims. And when I do so, this is what I believe is appropriate.”
Roe sentenced Upchurch to 12 years, six months in prison for each predatory criminal sexual assault charge – to be served consecutively – and five years in prison for each of the other charges to be served concurrently.
“That will be a total of 25 years, served at 85%,” Roe said.
When released, Upchurch will be supervised for three years and must register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
Upchurch will get credit for 1,077 days served in the Ogle County Jail.
Komie said he will be filing a posttrial motion. That hearing was set for 1 p.m. June 9.
As he left the courtroom, Upchurch looked to his supporters and said, “I’ll be OK. I love you.”
Tickets cost $7 for adults, $4 for children ages 13 to 17 and free for ages 12 and younger.
Docent tours are every 15 minutes with the last tour at 3:45 p.m., according to the Friends of the Viking Ship website, vikingship.us.
• ShawLocalreporterBrendaSchory contributed to this story.
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS ROUNDUP
Boys track and field
Dixon wins Oregon meet: The Dukes tallied 174.5 points to win Oregon’s Gebhardt-Worley Invitational, finishing comfortably ahead of runner-up Forreston (101.5).
Erie-Prophetstown (37) was eighth and Oregon (29.5) was ninth at the 11-team meet.
Forreston winners were Hayden Vinnedge (400), Jonathan Milnes (high jump) and Billy Lowry (triple jump). Eli Ferris, Brody Schwartz, Jonathan Milnes and Noah Dewey won the 4x200 relay for the Cardinals.
Oregon: 200 meters, Daniel Gonzalez, second, 53.57; 800 meters, Gonzalez, second, 2:03.46; shot put, Briggs Sellers, fifth; discus, Peter Alfano, seventh; high jump, Xander Garcia, seventh.
Girls track and field
Oregon’s Gebhardt-Worley Invitational: Genoa-Kingston (106 points) and LenaWinslow (100) took the top two spots, followed by Freeport (98) and Forreston (86). E-P (64) was sixth and Oregon (56) took eighth. Forreston’s Bree Schneiderman won the 400, finished as runner-up in the 200 and took third in the 100.
Lena-Winslow 8, Forreston 7: Le-Win scored in the bottom of the eighth inning to edge the Cardinals at Lena.
See ROUNDUP, page 11
Earleen Hinton
Forreston-Polo’s Noah Dewey crosses the finish line first April 12 in the 800 relay at the Gebhardt-Worley Invitational at Oregon High School. Forreston won the race in 1:32.1.
Earleen Hinton
Polo catcher Jackson Willis tags out Morrison’s Jacob Banks at home plate
in Polo.
Deadline to apply for Chana Play Day scholarships is April 25
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
CHANA – The Chana Play Day Committee is accepting applications for several scholarships.
Candidates must be high school graduates (or the equivalent) with
ties to the Chana area.
Applicants who are current or former residents of Chana or who have parents or grandparents who attended Chana School or participated in the Chana Play Day may apply.
Two-time scholarship recipients
are not eligible.
The $500 scholarships will be awarded to candidates who best meet and complete the requirements listed in the application.
Scholarship forms may be picked up at the Oregon High School guidance office, 206 S. 10th St., Oregon, or
at Stocking Equipment, four miles east of Oregon on state Route 64. Applications should be mailed or delivered to Ron Stocking, Stocking Equipment, 3759 E. Pine Rock Road, Oregon, IL 61061.
Applications must be received by 5 p.m. Friday, April 25.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
Open invitation to Ogle County Historical Society meeting
OREGON – April 28 is Global Pay It Forward Day. Have you ever thought of becoming a supporting member of the Ogle County Historical Society?
If you live in the area, could you volunteer and become involved in our efforts to preserve Ogle County’s history?
Whether near or far, historical society members would love to hear from you
OGLE COUNTY PROPERTY TRANSFERS
April 7-13
Warranty deeds
Andrzej Gorniak to Roger Allen Fegan and Nicole Fegan, 202 Deer Paint Drive, Dixon, and 423 Chippewa Lane, Dixon, $5,000.
Twin Creek Farms LLC to Latso Investment LLC, one parcel in Dement Township, 25-28-200-001, $2,300,000.
Twin Creek Farms LLC to Acretrader 255 LLC, three parcels in Pine Rock Township: 17-36-100-001, 17-36-100-008 and 17-36-300-010, $2,200,000.
Autodoc Inc. and Jonathan Setchell to Santiago Mendoza, 23-05-300-004 and one parcel in Lafayette Township: 23-05300-006, $400,000.
Theodore F. Grzywa, Deceased By Heirs, to Harvey Jacob Willey, 900 S. 8th St., Oregon, $210,900.
Winton D Bocker and Bethany A Bocker to Hayden D Eastman, 9996 W. Haldane Road, Polo, $400,320.
Hre Builders LLC to Michael Mannella, 619 S. Regulators, Rochelle, $292,000.
David J Myers and Gail E Myers to Kelly J Schwartz, 312 S. First Ave., Forreston, $90,000.
Emergency Telephone System Board to Oregon Fire Protection District, 960 W. IL Rte 64, Oregon, $0.
Terry Chesnut, Deceased By Heirs, and Bertha Chesnut, Deceased By Heirs, to Kurt Freund, 15794 E. IL Rte 72, Davis Junction, $145,000.
Shirley M Bryant to Adam W Funderburgh and Brianna Funderburgh, 945 N. 11th St., Rochelle, $172,000.
Joshua A Williams and Ryan R Williams to Calvin King, 5299 Harlan Drive, Rochelle, $160,000.
Carolyn S Mcbride to Jeffrey T Johnson and Diana M Johnson, 908 N. 14th St., Rochelle, $153,000.
Estuardo Arevalo and Ingrid Arevalo to Adam Erickson and Kellie Erickson, 110 Windward Lane, Rochelle, $274,000.
Arthur Hall and Amy Hall to Josiah Underwood, 452 N. Birchwood Lane, Davis Junction, $272,400.
Linda May King Benson to Ajd Farms LLC, three parcels in White Rock Township: 18-27-400-001, 18-27-400-002 and 18-27-400-003, $1,000,000.
Jacob Diehl to James Hattendorf and Elaine Hattendorf, 5205 W. Murray Drive, Dixon, $135,000.
Julie Tieman-Rowe to Henry E Selent, 16-16-100-023 and 971 W. Devils Backbone Road, Oregon, $267,000.
Jake M. Groom to Robert Devries and Danielle Horst, 501 W. White Oak Road, Forreston, $198,500.
Shawn N Halfman, Elizabeth A Halfman and Savana E Halfman to Cliffton Davis and Cheryl Davis, 507 Cedar Ave., Forreston, $69,000.
Bradley J Alberts to Naomi E Mortell, 401 S. Sunbeam Court, Stillman Valley, $260,000.
H&j Loyalty Properties LLC to David Parnell and Carla Parnell, 311 W. Hitt St., Mt. Morris, $140,000.
Marco Sawires to Chris Ranzino, 11052 E. Lincoln Lane, Rochelle, $19,000.
and are extending an open invitation to their next monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 28, at the carriage house annex behind the Nash House Museum at 111 N. Sixth St.
“Find out how you could become a
Quit claim deeds
James A Shanks to James A Shanks and April N Shanks, 405 W. 2nd St., Byron, $0.
Michelle M. Moroney and Michelle M. Moroney to Michael H. Moroney, 800 N. 11th St., Rochelle, $0.
George K Kersten, George Kersten, Lori A Haub and Lori Kersten to Lori Kersten and George Kersten, 112 N. Blackberry Circle, Dixon, and one parcel in Taylor Township: 22-09-404-014, $0.
Chi-Huia W Fieg to Aric Chen, trustee, and Chw Irrev Tr, one parcel in Taylor Township: 22-08-257-005, $0.
Chi-Huia W Fieg to Aric Chen, trustee, and Chw Irrev Tr, one parcel in Taylor Township: 22-08-257-006, $0.
Katie B Smith to Lisa C Scott, 145 Century Hill Drive, Oregon, $0.
Jeffrey K Brown, Angela M Brown, Jeff Brown and Angela Brown to Jeffrey K Brown and Angela M Brown, 104 Cuyahoga Drive, Dixon, 102 Cuyahoga Drive, Dixon, 100 Cuyahoga Drive, Dixon, $0.
Jeffrey K Brown, Angela M Brown, Jeff Brown and Angela Brown to Justin Fancher, 303 Wild Cherry Drive, Dixon, $0.
Zarko Sijan and Ljiljana Sijan to Zana Sijan, trustee, and Obren Sijan, trustee, and Sijan Irrev Tr, one parcel in Byron Township: 05-09-100-005, $0.
Randy Calvert, Roberta Calvert, Gary Miles, Brenda Miles, Bill Raymond, Yvonne Raymond, Mark Roberts, Kelly Roberts, Jim Spain and Judy Spain to Matthew Schroeder and Tina Schroeder, one parcel in Marion Township: 05-35-102-007, $0.
Brittney N Wyatt and Anthony Wyatt to
part of helping us preserve and share Ogle County history. We would love to have you join us,” Ogle County Historical Society member Michal Burnett said.
– Shaw Local News Network
Anthony Wyatt and Brittney N Wyatt, 113 Sunnyhill Drive, Davis Junction, $0.
Laurie King to Linda May King Benson, three parcels in White Rock Township: 18-27-400-001, 18-27-400-002 and 18-27-400-003, $0.
Creston Commons LLC to Hre Builders LLC, five parcels in Dement Township: 25-23-301004, 25-23-303-002, 25-23-303-003, 25-23-303-009, and 25-23-304-001, $0.
Trustees deeds
John Byerly, trustee, and Dorothy J Byerly Tr1 to Shirley A. Spray and Jack Spray, 107 S. Maple Ave., Davis Junction, $46,000. William C. Hunt, trustee, William C & Nancy A Rev Hunt Tr to Domingo Ortega-Ortega and Domingo Ortega Ortega, 402 North St., Monroe Center, $51,000.
Deeds in trust
Kathy A Crow to Kathy A Crow, trustee, and Kathy A Crow Tr1, 104 Windmill Court, Hillcrest, $0.
John T. Peters to John T. Peters, trustee, and John T. Peters Rev Tr, 125 Jeffrey Ave., Hillcrest, $0.
Michael Peters and Christine Peters to Michael David Peters, trustee, Christine Margaret Peters, trustee, and Michael David & Christine Margaret Peters Rev Lv T, 7917 W. Bordeaux Drive, Dixon, $0.
Linda D Cardine to Michael E. Cardine, trustee, and Michael E. Cardine Tr, one parcel in Marion Township: 10-35-300-004 and one parcel in Pine Rock Township: 17-08-200-007, $0.
Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office
• ROUNDUP
Continued from page 9
Alec Schoonhoven and Kendall Erdmann had doubles for Forreston and Carson Akins had a triple.
Oregon 8, Stillman Valley 0: The Hawks led 7-0 after two innings. Jack Washburn had three hits and Jackson Messenger had two. Bryce Becker was the winning pitcher.
Forreston 10, Du-Pec 2: Forreston’s Austin Schoonhoven struck out nine in six innings and had two RBIs.
Forreston 11, Du-Pec 3: Carson Akins had a home run and three RBIs for Forreston.
Oregon 12, Winnebago 2 (5 inn.): The Hawks outhit Winnebago 12-2 in the home win. Kade Girton and Gavin Morrow each knocked in three runs for Oregon.
Rockford Christian 7, Oregon 4: The Hawks were outhit 7-3 in the road loss. Keaton Salsbury had two singles and an RBI for Oregon.
Oregon 9, Rockford Christian 2: Kade Girton had four hits and five RBIs to help the Hawks split the doubleheader. Jack Washburn pitched a complete game with six strikeouts and one earned run allowed for Oregon.
Forreston 12, East Dubuque 8: Forreston outhit the opposition 14-9 in the road win and took advantage of six errors. Alec Schoonhoven had a home run and four RBIs for the Cardinals (14-2) and Kendall Erdmann had three hits.
Polo 13, West Carroll 4: Gus Mumford had four hits and two RBIs in the leadoff spot for Polo in the road win. Logan Thulen led West Carroll with two hits and two RBIs.
Softball
Oregon 6, Dixon 1: Isabelle Berg and Lola Schwarz had two hits each to lead Oregon to a win over conference foe Dixon. Berg got the win pitching for Oregon. She struck out eight in seven innings. Brooke Halverson had an RBI double for Oregon.
Morrison 8, Polo 1: Bella Duncan struck out 18 in a complete game win, allowing just two hits and walking none. Cheyenna Wilkins had a home run for Polo.
Oregon 8, Winnebago 0: Isabelle Berg pitched a complete game shutout and struck out nine in the Big Northern Conference win. Brooke Halverson led Oregon with four hits.
See ROUNDUP, page 12
“When Perfection Matters” | Call Albert Reinford, Owner
Earleen Hinton Polo’s Chey Wilkins pitches against Morrison on April 10 in Polo.
A deeper dive into the private-public debate
Without a doubt, the most feedback I received this year has been from the public-private school debate. The overwhelming sentiment has been that public schools are at a competitive disadvantage against their private counterparts.
Whether they are school administrators, coaches, parents or regular fans, people are upset. Make no mistake, the IHSA has been getting bombarded with complaints about the situation, an athletic director from outside this area recently shared with me.
This gentleman has been around the business for decades and really was miffed and made his feelings known to the IHSA. We both agreed there is no clear-cut solution, save for separating the publics and privates.
One item he brought up that I hadn’t considered was the IHSA opting to go with predetermined enrollment cutoffs instead of a percentage cutoff, which has been in place since 2007. When the two-class system started in 1971, the dividing line between A and AA was 750 students.
By knowing the exact cutoffs in advance, the potential exists for private schools to keep enrollment under that cutoff point to avoid moving up a class. Public schools don’t have that temptation. They need to accept all students in their district.
For both publics and privates, there is a huge advantage of being one of the larger schools in a classification compared with being the smallest in a classification. Another factor that skews
• ROUNDUP
Continued from page 11
Du-Pec 17, Forreston 16: Forreston’s road comeback fell short after scoring two runs in the seventh inning. Aubrey Sanders had three hits, including a home run and four RBIs for the Cardinals.
Stillman Valley 2, Oregon 0: The Hawks fell in a pitchers’ duel as freshman Isabelle Berg was saddled with the loss after striking out seven in a complete game. Oregon had only two hits and two walks against Makenzie Shere.
Oregon 7, Rock Falls 0: Isabelle Berg struck out 13 and held the Rockets to only four hits and four walks in the home win. Alexi Czochara led the Hawks with three RBIs in one at-bat and Oregon took advantage of five Rock Falls errors.
enrollment in a private school’s favor is they enroll higher echelon achievers, so per capita, they are getting more bang for the buck.
Of area interest, key numbers are 300 and 600. The difference between 1A and 2A in baseball, basketball, softball and volleyball is the 300 mark for enrollment. It’s the 600 mark for 2A and 3A.
Forreston (242) and Polo (176) are safely in 1A. Byron (465), Oregon (444) and Stillman Valley (433) are in the middle of 2A. Rochelle (863) remains in 3A.
Other than Stillman Valley, all schools have remained fairly constant in enrollment since the last IHSA count two years ago. Stillman Valley dropped from 504 to 433.
In the Big Northern Conference, a huge drop was Rockford Christian from 305 to 200. You have to question whether that dormitory they built for international students is getting any use.
And it makes sense that Rockford Christian was forced to drop 11-man football. Yes, there are plenty of private schools that struggle to be competitive in certain sports.
Also, in their defense, many of them are in a battle to keep enrollment up or even keep schools afloat. So it really
Milledgeville 19, Forreston 6: Kendra Kingsby had a triple, home run and two singles with six RBIs for Milledgeville in the road win. Aubrey Sanders and Caroline Bawinkel each knocked in three runs for Forreston.
Oregon 14, Lena-Winslow 1 (5 inn.): Oregon had 14 hits and took advantage of six Lena-Winslow errors. Lola Schwarz had a home run and Emma Schlichtmann had three hits for the Hawks.
Girls soccer
Oregon 4, Rockford Lutheran 0: Anna Stender had two goals as the Hawks improved to 5-2-1 and 1-1 in the Big Northern Conference. Mili Zavala had two saves at goalkeeper in the shutout.
Genoa-Kingston 3, Oregon 1: Anna Stender had Oregon’s lone goal off a Christine Ramirez assist in the setback.
isn’t fair to wage an all-out assault on them in the public-private debate.
While we’re on the discussion of school enrollments, I was disgusted to hear of a proposal that was passed in an Illinois House committee called the Homestead Act. In effect, it would impose strict regulations on parents who homeschool their children, of which there has been a rise of 2.5 million in 2019 to 3.7 million today.
For each public school student in Illinois, $22,000 is spent. Homeschoolers do it without outside funding. In a state riddled by mediocre education outcomes in public schools, why go after the good families that have chosen to escape those pitfalls.
This from the Wall Street Journal: “Now that the state politicians have completely destroyed the public education system, they are going after the escapees.”
I don’t have precise data, but I sense that homeschoolers are better prepared for academic challenges than their public counterparts.
Fortunately, the public has sat up
and taken notice with 50,000 voters filing witness slips against the Homestead Act compared with 1,000 in favor of it.
Remember a few years ago when some nosy, misguided state politicians tried to interfere in IHSA affairs.
Wisely, the courts told them to mind their own business.
Is it any wonder there is so much distrust and lack of respect for government in Illinois?
Another subject that has touched a nerve among area sports fans is the Illinois House of Representatives passing a bill that prohibits K-12 schools in the state from using a Native American name, logo or mascot.
Before it can become a law, it needs to go to the Senate for a vote.
The following schools could be impacted: Hononegah, Pecatonica, Winnebago, Marengo, Dakota (all Indians), Stockton Blackhawks, South Beloit Sobos and Warren Warriors.
• Andy Colbert, an avid runner, is a sports writer for Shaw Local covering high school sports in Ogle County.
CLASSIFIED
REAL ESTATE AUCTION
House with Garage on Corner Lot !
Go to www.lennybrysonauctioneer.com to view FULL SALE BILL, PHOTOS and terms & conditions.
For Informati on or to view property contact: Willia m R Samuel Estate Mark Ebert, Auctioneer 815-440-2183
Trish Bolen, Administrator Le nny Bryson, Auctioneer 815-946-4120
M. Tom Suits, Attorney
GARAGE SALE
April 24 th , 25 th , and 26 th Thursday, Friday, Saturd ay 8 to 5 1682 N River Rd, Oregon, IL
Tandem Kayak with seats & oars, Poulan Pro lawn mower, old steel wheels, tools, ladders, sporting, hunting, garden, vintage, collectibles, stamps, buttons, office, household, paper shredder, stick vacuum, stor ag e totes and MUCH MORE
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF Ogle - Oregon,ILL INOIS U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
Plaintiff vs. DANIEL J STEELE II; TAYLOR M. FOX; ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendant 24 FC 27
NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause the Sheriff of Ogle County will on May 16, 2025, at the hour 10:00 a.m in the Sheriff's office, 202 S 1st Street, Oregon, IL 61061, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 02-33-129-008.
Commonly known as 104 S. 1ST AVE., FORRESTON, IL 61030.
The real estate is: single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: At sale, the bidder must have 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information For informat ion call Sales Department at Plaintiff's Attorney, Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 13010 Morris Road, Suite 450, Alpharetta, Georgia 30004. (708) 6684410 ext. 52109. 24-199336 SHERIFF I3263837 Apr. 11, 18, 25, 2025
IF YOU HAD KNEE OR HIP REPLACEMENT SU RGERY AND SUFFERED AN INFECTION DUE TO USE OF A BAIR HUGGER (BLUE BLANKET), between 2020 and the pr esent time, You may be entitled to compensation Call Attorney Charles H Johnson 1-800-535-5727
Jazzy Select power GT chair – like new landline 288-5636
ROTOTILLER, Old Garden Plows Lawn Tools Best offer Call 815-973-2329 after 5pm
O'Rorke Constructi on Services , Inc
Auctioneers Equipment Questions cal l Dominic O'Rorke 715-562-8254
Lenny Bryson 815-946-4120
Cal Kaufman 309-696-9019
Brent Schmidigal 309-202-8378 Attorney, Paul Chadwick 815-562-2156
STATE OF IL LINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
OG LE COUNT YIN PROBATE
In the Matter of the Estate of MARY L. MEINERS, Deceased No. 2025 PR 28
CL AIM NOTICE
Notice is given of the death of Mary L Meiners of Dixon, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on April 8, 2025, to Steven J. Meiners, 7762 S. Lowden Rd., Dixon, IL 61021, Independent Executor, whose attorney is Heather McPherson, McPherson Law Offices, 1720 S Hance Drive, Freeport, IL 61032.
E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions To efile, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders.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
Claims against the Estate may be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Court at Ogle County Courthouse, 106 S. 5th St., Oregon, IL 61061, or with the representative, or both, on or before October 20, 2025 and 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 representativ e and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.
Steven J. Meiners, Legal Representative
April 18, 25, May 2, 2025
STATE OF IL LINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE
In the Matter of TRE VA M. FLEMING, Deceased No. 2025-PR-29 CL AIM NOTICE
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF Ogle - Oregon,ILL INOIS U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
Plaintiff vs. DANIEL J STEELE II; TAYLOR M. FOX; ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendant 24 FC 27
NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause the Sheriff of Ogle County will on May 16, 2025, at the hour 10:00 a.m in the Sheriff's office, 202 S 1st Street, Oregon, IL 61061, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: LOT THREE (3) IN BLOCK ONE (1) IN THE ORIGINAL TOWN OF FORRESTON, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT ACKNOWLEDGED BY GEORGE W HEWITT; SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF FORRESTON, COUNTY OF OGLE AND STATE OF ILLINOIS P.I.N. 02-33-129-008.
Commonly known as 104 S. 1ST AVE., FORRESTON, IL 61030.
The real estate is: single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF OGLE COUNTY, ILL INOIS OGLE COUNTY - CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE, LLC Plaintiff, vs. BRENT WAG NER, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR PENNY S MON, CYNTHIA SUTHERIN, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR BRANDY MEYER, ATTORNEY PAUL E. CHADWICK, AS GUARDIAN AD LITEM, FOR THE MINOR HEIR, N.O, ROGER W. MEYER, JR., UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF PENNY S. MON, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF BRANDY MEYER, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendant(s). Case Num ber: 2023FC3 NOTICE BY PUB LICATION Unknown Heirs and Legatees of Brandy Meyer Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants that this case has been commenced in this Court, against you and other Defendants, praying for the foreclosure of a certain Mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to wit: PART OF LOT 1 IN BLOCK 1, OF CHATFIELD`S SECOND ADDITION TO THE TOWN OF POLO, OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS; ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED FEBRU ARY 28, 1861 IN BOOK A OF PLATS, PAGE 33, AS DOCUMENT NO. 25061, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING ON THE EAST LINE OF SAID LOT 1 41.5 FEET SOUTH OF THE NORTHEAST CORNER THEREOF; THENCE WESTERLY TO A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID LOT 1 WHICH IS 33 FEET SOUTH OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER THEREOF; THENCE SOUTH ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID LOT 1 TO THE SOUTHWEST CORNER THEREOF; THENCE EAST ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID LOT 1 TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER THEREOF; THENCE NORTH ON THE EAST LINE OF SAID LOT 1 TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; ALSO THE NORTH HALF OF LOT 2 IN BLOCK 1 OF CHATFIELD`S SECOND
ADDITION TO THE TOWN OF POLO, OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOI S; ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED FEBRUARY 28, 1861 IN BOOK A OF PLATS, PAGE 33, AS DOCUMENT NO. 25061.
COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 207 S. CONGRESS AVENUE, POLO, IL 61064
And which said Mortgage was made by: Gary L. Mon, Estate of Penny S. Mon, the Mortgagor, to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. ("MERS"), AS MORTGAG EE, AS NOMINEE FOR FREEDOM BANK ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, as Mortgagee, and recorded in the Office of the Recorde r of Deeds of Ogle County, Illinois as Document No 201306328; and for other relief, that summons was duly issued out of said Court agai nst you as
IN THE CI
OG Wells Fargo Bank, Vs. Kody Mazzari; DEFENDANTS
No. 2025FC9
NOTICE IS GIVEN Unknown Owne
That this case you and other certain Mortgag follows, to-wit: St Byron, IL 61010 and which said the Mortgago Systems, Inc. Mortgage, a d as Mortgagee, Deeds of Ogle modified with was duly issue law and that the NOW, THEREFO otherwise file the Clerk of this Court 106 S. 5th on or before M AGAINST YOU JUDGMENT M THE PRAYER CODILIS & ASSO 15W030 North 60527 (630) 794-5300
Our File No. 14-25-00798
NOTE:
Notice is given of the death of TREVA M. FLEMING of Holcomb, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on April 11, 2025 to NICHOLAS G. FLEMING, as Independent Executor whose attorneys are WILLIAMS McCARTHY LLP, 120 W. State St., P.O Box 219, Rockford, IL 61105. 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 terminate s independent administratio t ti site abov Copi file must delivere repres to within ter i file Ap 2025
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT F OR THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
OGLE COUNTY - OREGON, I LLINOIS
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. PLAINTIFF
Vs. Kody Mazzari; Unknown Owners and Nonrecord Claimants DEFENDANTS
No. 2025FC9 NOTICE BY PUBLICATION NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU: Kody Mazzari
Unknown Owners and Nonrecord Claimants
That this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendants, praying for the foreclosure of a certain Mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to-wit: COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 216 S Washington St Byron, IL 61010 and which said Mortgage was made by: Kody Mazzari the Mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registr ation Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Wintrust Mortgage, a division of Barrington Bank and Trust Co., N.A., as Mortgagee, and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Ogle County, Illinois, as Document No 201803209 modified with 202400530; and for othe r relief; that summons was duly issued out of said Court against you as provided by law and that the said suit is now pending.
NOW, THEREFORE, UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the Office of the Clerk of this Court, Kimberly A. Stahl Clerk of the Circuit Court 106 S. 5th Street, #300 Oregon, IL 61061-1634 on or before May 19, 2025, A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRAYER OF SAID COMPLAINT.
CODILIS & ASSOCIATES , P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100 Burr Ridge, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 DuPage # 15170 Winnebago # 531 Our File No. 14-25-00798
NOTE: This law firm is a debt collector I3264441 Apr. 18, 25, May 2, 2025
NOTICE
Public Notice is given that the Village of Forreston, an Illinois municipal corporation, proposes to enter into a Lease Agreement with Smokin Gun Worx, LLC, an Illinois limited liability company, to lease certain real estate owned by the Village of Forreston and locat ed within its tax increment financing district The real estate is commonly described as a part of PIN 02-28-200-023, and is legal described as follows:
Part of the Northwe st Quarter of Section 28, Township 25 North, Range 8 East of the Fourth Principal Meridian, Ogle County, Illinois, described as follows:
Beginning at the Point of Intersection of the North line of the Southeast Quarter of said Northwe st Quarter with the Westerly right of way line of the abandoned Illinois Central Gulf Railroad; thence South 25 degrees 33 minutes 25 seconds East on and along last named right of way line, a distance of 412.60 feet to the Southeast corner of the premises described in document 201506077 as recorded in the Ogle County recorder's Office; thence North 64 degrees 26 minutes 35 seconds East a distance of 150.00 feet to the Westerly line of the Easterly 50 feet of said abandoned Illinois Central Gulf Railroad; thence North 25 degrees 33 minutes 25 seconds West on and along last named line a distance of 432.33 feet, thence South 64 degrees 26 minutes 35 seconds West a distance of 150.00 feet to said Westerly right of way line of the abandoned Illinois Central Gulf Railroad; thence South 25 degrees 33 minutes 25 seconds East a distance of 20.00 feet to the Point of Beginning, contain ing 1.49 acres, more or less.
Under the terms of the Lease, the Village of Forreston will lease the real estate to Smokin Gun Worx, LLC for a period of ninety-nine (99) years to be used and occupied exclusively as parking facilit ies. The annual rent under the terms of the Lease is ten dollars ($10.00) Copies of the Lease are available for public inspection at the office of the Village Clerk of the Village of Forreston, 301 N Walnut Ave., Forreston, Illinois, from and after the date of this publication. All interested parties are invited to make alternate proposals for the lease of the real estate. Such proposals must be submitted in writing to the Village Clerk at the above address, on or before the April 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. This notice is published pursuant to the requirements of the Tax Increment Alloca tion Redevelopment Act of the State of Illinois, as supplemented and amended. Dated April 7, 2025.
