SPORTS Boys basketball: Huskers finish with 27 wins and one of the program’s best seasons / 14 NEWS Weger wants lab to analyze more hairs from 1960 murders / 4 NEWS Local studies to begin for Peoria-to-Chicago rail line / 8 Lacon Bridge set for nearly 8-month closure starting March 18 / Page 2 BRIDGE CLOSING “PRSRT STD.” US Postage Paid No. 486 SHAW MEDIA POSTAL PATRON LOCAL R.R. BOXHOLDER CARRIER ROUTE PRESORT PUTNAM COUNTY’S ONLY NEWSPAPER • shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record Wednesday, March 8, 2023 • 50 CENTS Vol. 151 No. 10 One section 20 Pages © The Putnam County Record 107 East Harrison St. • Granville, IL • www.kettmanheating.com • 815-339-6124 Look for the man in the Orange & White Van! Spring Duct Cleaning! Call Today to Schedule Your Duct Cleaning! Don’t be STUCK IN THE DARK during storms, snow, or outages! 24 Hour Service LIC. #058-111758 107 East Harrison St. Granville, IL Look for the man in the Orange & White Van! KETTMAN HEATING & PLUMBING, INC. Spring Duct Cleaning! Call today to schedule your duct cleaning! Don’t be STUCK IN THE DARK during storms, snow, or outages! 815-339-6124 Open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm * Sat-Sun by Appt siegtire.com 620 OLD HWY 26, HENNEPIN, IL CALL NOW for Maintenance done on your Tractor before the season starts! $105 Service Call!
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Lacon Bridge set for nearly 8-month closure
Bridge is scheduled to be closed from March 18 through Nov. 1
By JAYCE EUSTICE jeustice@shawmedia.com
The Lacon Bridge, which carries an estimated 7,000 vehicles a day over the Illinois River on Illinois Route 17, is scheduled for a nearly 8 month construction closure beginning March 18.
The bridge originally was constructed in 1939 to connect the towns of Lacon and Sparland. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, it is one of the oldest crossings over the Illinois River.
At 1,573 feet long and 29 feet wide, the structure is a steel continuous bridge and received its last upgrade in 1990.
Its previous work included superstructure replacement beams at the approach spans, floor beams at the main span and a new bridge deck.
IDOT said the new “improvements will extend the lifespan of the bridge, address inefficiencies, enhance performance with a smoother surface to provide a more comfortable ride.”
The organization also said the work is meant to maintain the safety of the bridge for the public for many years to come.
The project will include steel repair, bearing rehabilitation, joint replacement, bridge deck overlay, roadway and navigational lighting updates, drainage improvements, painting and other related work.
NEWS BRIEF
Craig Morgan to headline Marshall-Putnam Fair Concert
The Marshall-Putnam Fair announced Craig Morgan will headline its concert Thursday, July 13. Morgan will be joined by special guests Whiskey Bent and Joe Stamm Band.
Aside from being a country music
This work will include 47,000 pounds of concrete reinforcement bars, 65,000 pounds of structural steel, 480 total cubic yards of concrete, 500 tons of hot mix asphalt, 1,900 feet of conduit, 5,700 feet of electrical cable and a multitude of navigational lighting.
The $10 million project will be funded through the Rebuild Illinois capital program, which plans to improve more than 2,500 miles of highway and nearly 10 million square feet of bridge deck in Illinois.
The bridge is expected to remain closed through November 2023, weather permitting. During the closure, the Lacon boat ramp and dock access to the Lacon Marina will remain open.
For many, the closure will cause the
star, Morgan is a TV personality, celebrated outdoorsman and Army veteran.
Morgan has charted 25 songs on Billboards including such hits as “Bonfire,”
“Almost Home,” “Redneck Yacht Club,”
“International Harvester,” “This Ole Boy,”
“Soldier,” “Wake Up Loving You,” “That’s What I Love About Sunday” and “The
use of the nearby Henry Bridge to cross the Illinois River, located on Illinois Route 18.
For most standard vehicles crossing the Henry bridge, there will be no restrictions, however many larger or oversized loads, such as farm equipment, many require a police escort. To find out if an escort is needed or to request one, call the Henry Police Department at 309-364-3933 or the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department at 309-246-2115.
Further north, IDOT said that bridge painting on the Illinois 180 Bridge in Hennepin should be completed by mid-summer 2023. The bridge currently is open to one lane in each direction and will be for the duration of the project.
Father, My Son and the Holy Ghost.” Gates for the concert will open at 5:30 p.m. with the show beginning at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 13, at the Marshall-Putnam Fairgrounds, 915 University Ave. in Henry. Tickets can be purchased at marshallputnamfair.org.
– Jayce Eustice
2 Putnam County Record / shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record • Wednesday, March 8, 2023 PUTNAM COUNTY RECORD
••••••••••••••••••••••
Scott Anderson – sanderson@shawmedia.com
The Illinois Route 17 Bridge spans across the Illinois River in Lacon.
Putnam County 6th graders complete readers’ program
‘Fighting Words’ selected as school’s favorite
Shaw Local News Network
The Putnam County Junior High’s sixth graders recently participated in the Rebecca Caudill Young Readers’ Book Award program.
This award is determined by student votes, encourages students to read for personal satisfaction and develops a statewide awareness of outstanding children’s literature.
The book “Fighting Words” was chosen as being the favorite among the sixth grade participants out of the 20 nominated books.
The program was introduced to the students through a cooperative effort among Amy Carboni’s sixth grade classes and Debbie Thompson, PCJH media paraprofessional.
After each student reads one of the books, they must then pass a test and fill out a story balloon. A balloon report helps the student understand the parts of the novel.
SWEET HOME
After reading and reporting on three Rebecca Caudill books, the student receives a certificate stating they are eligible to attend a party and vote for the awards.
On Feb. 21, 15 students voted and a total of 75 books had been read so far by the sixth graders.
Any student who reads all 20 of the Rebecca Caudill books will have their name engraved on a plaque to be displayed at the school in honor of the accomplishment. Students will have until April 28 to complete this task.
PCJH also was selected to receive a 2022-23 Readers’ Choice Grant for a set of Rebecca Caudill books from the AISLE/LBSS Endowment Fund.
The school thanked the Putnam County Educational Foundation for approving the grant that helped pay for the copies of the books and the treats for the students’ party.
The school also thanked Ms. Davis, the PC district librarian, for her help setting up the program and giving input on the grants and PCJH Principal Mike Olson and PC Superintendent Dr. Clayton Theisinger for their support.
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Putnam County Junior High sixth graders who participated in the Rebecca Caudill Reading Program include Jace Boedigheimer, Tayton Brown, Emmy Carboni, Tori Eutis, Brooklyn Gorski, Naomi Hammerich, Gwen Heeley, Joselyn Lopez, Damian Marcum, John Placher, Anna Poignant, Tula Rue, MaKenzie Setters, Peyton Smith, Bailee Vice and Yaneli Walker-Alfaro (absent).
Weger wants more hairs from 1960 murders analyzed
Parolee back in court April 19 for evidentiary arguments
By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com
Chester Weger wants a lab to analyze additional hairs from the Starved Rock murders. A judge could decide April 19 whether that evidence will undergo fresh tests.
Weger, who turns 84 next month, appeared Friday in La Salle County Circuit Court in his ongoing effort to overturn his murder conviction. He was sentenced to life in prison for the 1960 murder of Lillian Oetting, who was found bludgeoned to death along with two companions in the state park. He was paroled in 2019.
On Friday, his lawyers said they plan to file a motion next week seeking the OK to send some hairs retrieved from Oetting to a lab for DNA analysis. Scientists retained by the defense would first use microscopes to determine whether any of the strands are good candidates for DNA extraction and analysis.
La Salle County Judge Michael C. Jansz set a briefing schedule and then a hearing for oral arguments at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 19.
Actually, Jansz has another motion to address, but this one may or may not be settled April 19. That involves whether to give Weger another hearing on post-conviction motions.
Under the law, a convict usually gets one chance to argue for new trial – just one bite at the proverbial apple – and
Weger had such a hearing in 1967.
Weger’s lawyers think he deserves another try. The crux of their argument is recent DNA results cast additional doubt about the case against Weger. Such testing wasn’t available when Weger first applied for post-conviction relief, giving him the right to another hearing.
“The new, conclusive evidence presented, combined with the governing principles set forth [earlier in his motion], demand that [Weger’s] claims be further explored,” wrote Weger’s lawyers, Andy Hale and Celeste Stack.
Jansz told Weger’s legal team that he received a thick binder of pleadings and attachments (the motion alone is 85 pages) and needs time to study it. A hearing date is pending.
Meanwhile, Jansz disclosed that he received materials from author Steve Stout that were turned over to the La Salle County Sheriff’s Office for safekeeping.
Some of the materials, that is. Jansz said Stout delivered an unorganized batch of materials in a plastic container. Jansz found “18 or 19” documents worth saving such as statements, evidentiary summaries and a map that was marked up.
Jansz said the jumble included materials that weren’t pertinent to the case as well as news clippings that are publicly available. These, he said, would be returned to Stout.
Jansz cautioned the lawyers that some of the documents are “very fragile.”
“Some of the papers are going to fall apart if you do too much to them,” he said.
Starved Rock murders DNA hair sample comes up empty
A hair from the Starved Rock murders was found to have DNA. It wasn’t Chester Weger’s. So whose hair was it?
Weger attorney Andy Hale said Friday that they still don’t know. An attempt to crosscheck it against a DNA databank came up empty.
Hale said the DNA sample met the criteria to be crosschecked against a state-run database (although not the federal database), and the analysis didn’t yield a match.
Hale said he wasn’t surprised. The database was established about 30 years after the Starved Rock murders, by which time many of the people at the crime scene were gone and unavailable for comparison.
–TomCollins
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Chester Weger (in a wheelchair) is escorted by members of his family Friday from the La Salle County courthouse in Ottawa after a hearing before Judge Michael C. Jansz. Weger wants a lab to analyze additional hairs from the Starved Rock murders.
Putnam County to receive firearm enforcement grants
Shaw Local News Network
The Illinois State Police awarded grants to the Peru and Spring Valley police departments, and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, to conduct enforcement operations for individuals whose Firearm Owner Identification Cards have been revoked or suspended as a result of being prohibited by state or federal law.
The grants were awarded to 27 other law enforcement agencies across the state.
Using firearm enforcement grants awarded by the Illinois State Police, law enforcement agencies across the state conducted 1,115 firearm enforcement checks and placed 472 individuals into compliance with the FOID Act in 2022.
The enforcement details focus on
NEWS BRIEF
NCICG helps 8 local communities obtain Illinois EPA grants
North Central Illinois Council of Governments announced that it has assisted eight local communities to obtain grant funds from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.
individuals who have become the subject of a firearm restraining order or clear and present danger, or received a criminal conviction, among other reasons.
“Local law enforcement agencies know their communities best and know who poses a threat,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly in a press release. “Grants to local law enforcement agencies galvanizes our ability to keep firearms out of the hands of individuals who pose a significant threat to themselves or others.”
Between the time ISP started tracking firearm enforcement details in May 2019, through the end of 2022, ISP conducted 1,455 details and placed 4,296 individuals into compliance by surrendering their FOID cards, transferring all firearms out of their possession, and
NCICG helped five communities receive lead service line inventory grant funds, totaling $184,110. The city of Lacon received $30,000, the cities of La Salle and Oglesby received $40,000, city of Peru received $50,000 and the village of Sheffield received $24,110.
completing a Firearm Disposing Record.
Between 2020 and the end of December 2022, ISP stopped more than 103,000 unlawful attempts to obtain a firearm through compliance checks, as well as firearm eligibility checks. Funding for the enforcement grants comes from the State Police Revocation Enforcement Fund and were made possible through Public Act 102-0237. The General Assembly appropriated $2 million for the grants and as money is accrued in the State Police Revocation Enforcement Fund, the amount the 30 law enforcement agencies receive could potentially increase. The grants will help pay for officers to conduct enforcement details now through the end of the grant period June 30. ISP will issue grants in the upcoming 2024 fiscal year.
NCICG also helped three communities receive unsewered community construction grant program funds totaling $14 million. The village of Braceville received $4 million while Lisbon and Rutland each received $5 million.
OBITUARIES
DAVID H. GUNSUL
Born: December 18, 1941 in Aurora, IL
Died: February 27, 2023 in Peoria, IL
David H. Gunsul of Putnam, IL passed away February 27, 2023, at OSF Hospice.
David was born on December 18, 1941, in Aurora, IL to Helen & Richard Gunsul. He is survived by his loving wife, Cleo and 2 sons, David and Mark.
David always had a zest for life, and it was a joy to share for those who knew him. He loved his lake home, traveling, good laughter and a great meal!
In his memory donations may be made to Putnam Christian Church, Putnam, IL. A memorial service will be held at the church at a later time.
How to submit
Send obituary information to putnamobits@shawlocal.com or call 815-6322534. Notices are accepted until 5 p.m. Friday for Wednesday’s edition. Obituaries also appear online at shawlocal. com/putnam-county-record, where you may sign the guest book, send flowers or make a memorial donation.
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DONALD E. RICK
Born: November 23, 1936 in Dover, Illinois
Died: February 22, 2023 in Peoria, Illinois
Donald E. Rick, 86, of Magnolia passed away peacefully on February 22, 2023 at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home, Peoria. Service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, March 6, 2023 at Dysart – Cofoid Funeral Chapel, Granville. Proceeded by his Burial which will be at the Magnolia Cemetery with military honors conducted by McNabb – Magnolia American Legion. Don was born on November 23, 1936 in Dover, IL to Clarence and Anna Lucille (Bickett) Rick.
He served in the Army National Guard. Don was a National Guard Veteran and was actively involved with his local American Legion in Magnolia. He was a mechanic, tractor trailer truck driver for Illinois Valley Cartridge and D & D. Don was also an entrepreneur and operated as a general contractor. His passions were gardening, wine making, traveling, cooking and baking, woodworking, watching his grandchildren playing sports and carpentry. He also enjoyed fishing and
camping while spending time with his beloved family and making people laugh. Don was able to tell every detail of times past to keep the memories fresh in our minds. He was also known to always try and bring a smile to your face. Don is survived by his fiancé Sally Reaska and family. His sisters, Cheryl (Richard) Barnett and Karen (Larry) Stabler; children, Kelli (Richard Sullivan) Rick, Wendi (Cornelius) Connolly, Mitchell
(Dana) Rick, Kimberly (Jeffrey) Bjerke, Kathrine (Jeff) Goodrick and Elizabeth Rick (spouse Cynthia); grandchildren, Claire and Laine Sullivan, Kathrine and Christopher Connolly, Mitchell II, Kyle and Melissa Rick, Sheena (Dempsey) Rosenquist (spouse Kevin) and Elizabeth Dempsey, Cole Goodrick and Nathalia Davila; great grandson, Elwood Rosenquist and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter, Patience Turczyn and grandson Ryan Dempsey.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to McNabb - Magnolia American Legion. Online condolences may be sent to his family at www.dcfunerals.com
MARK “VITO” A. BERTULI
Born: December 6, 1950 in Spring Valley, Illinois
Died: February 28, 2023 in Peoria, Illinois
Mark “Vito” A. Bertuli, 72, of Mark passed away on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, Peoria. Service will be at 12:00 noon on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at Dysart –Cofoid Funeral Chapel, Granville. Pastor Karen Karczweski will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded following the service. Burial will be in Granville Cemetery where military honors will be conducted at a later date.
Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at Dysart –Cofoid Funeral Chapel, Granville. Mark was born on December 6, 1950 in Spring Valley to Leonard and Agnes (Bolin)
Bertuli. He married Cynthia Ehringer in 1976. He graduated from Hopkins High School. Mark served in the United States Army. Mark was a member of the United Church of Christ and V.F.W., he was also a member of Fish-N-Fun, where he enjoyed sitting around a campfire drinking with his friends, taking the golf cart rides, and playing Bocce Ball. He was proud of his Italian heritage. He also enjoyed gardening and crossword puzzles. Mark was an avid Blackhawks Fan. He coached baseball for many years. He enjoyed spending time with his grandkids and was very proud of his sons and daughter. Survivors include his wife, Cynthia Bertuli of Mark; three sons, Brandon Bertuli of Mark, Brian Bertuli of Mark and Adam (Kelsey) Bertuli of Hamel, Illinois; one daughter, Toni (Joe V) Vishnauski of Granville; one brother, Leonard “Butch” (Maribeth) Bertuli of Mark; six grandchildren, Olivia, Kaden, Camden, Milo, Cole and Josephine. He also leaves behind some crotchety old men at a campfire in Fish-N-Fun.
He was preceded in death by his parents. Contributions may be made to donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be made to his family at www.dcfunerals.com
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Putnam County Record / shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record • Wednesday, March 8, 2023 PUTNAM COUNTY RECORD OBITUARIES
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Local studies to begin for Peoria-to-Chicago rail line
By DEREK BARICHELLO dbarichello@shawmedia.com
Consultants will begin work in the spring figuring out where depot spots or train platforms will be located at Ottawa, La Salle-Peru, Utica and Morris for the Peoria-to-Chicago passenger rail line.
A feasibility study in July 2022 confirmed the proposed Amtrak train seeks stops in La Salle-Peru, Ottawa and Morris, and a flag stop in Utica, on the three-hour trip, steering committee members said Thursday at Illinois Valley Community College during a North Central Illinois Council of Governments meeting.
Old train stations within those communities, however, likely will not be used when the rail line is up and running, with the exception of Morris.
“Consultants will be identifying where the best location is for people to be let off, where passengers have the most access to attractions, what location works best to entice riders,” said Kevin Lindeman, executive director of NCICG and member of the rail’s steering committee, of consultants. “All of that will be studied.”
The region received a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation that will cover its portion of the study, which is expected to take until about the end of the year and involve a number of meetings with community leaders.
The Peoria-to-Chicago passenger rail is about 10 years from being up and operational, the steering committee members said. The preliminary cost to implement the Peoria-to-Chicago railway service is estimated at $2.45 billion, though that number is far from finalized.
PROPOSED ROUTE
Grant funds will be used to develop a Phase I report that required establishing environmental issues, public
involvement, preliminary design, ridership forecast, railroad coordination, and a more detailed train operations strategy. A better understanding of how much the project will cost will come from this report.
A feasibility study suggested five round-trip trains may be utilized when the line is operational, leaving every couple of hours. Through the data collected in the survey, the group estimated a service would expect anywhere between 440 and 830 passengers a day; or a daily average of about 600.
The attractions and population
within the Illinois Valley, along with its lack of direct access of rail to Peoria or Chicago, helped bring the Peoria-to-Chicago line to fruition, Peoria City Manager Patrick Urich said.
There are 95,000 people who live within 30 minutes of La Salle-Peru, 120,000 people who live within a half hour of Ottawa and 292,000 people that who within 30 minutes of Morris.
“Your population centers are supporting the rail,” Urich said. “Whether riders go to Chicago for a day trip, or they are coming down to Peoria for what we’ve learned would mostly be for health care trips.”
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Image provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation
A map of the proposed route of the Peoria-to-Chicago passenger rail was shown on the projection screen Thursday during the North Central Illinois Council of Governments meeting at Illinois Valley Community College.
Your population centers are supporting the rail. Whether riders go to Chicago for a day trip, or they are coming down to Peoria for what we’ve learned would mostly be for health care trips.”
A CLOSER LOOK
Patrick Urich, Peoria city manager
IVCC candidates to participate in forum March 22
8 candidates vying for 3 open seats
Shaw Local News Network
The Illinois Valley Community College Democrats, College Republicans, Student Government Association and D322 will sponsor a Board of Trustees Candidates’ Forum from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, in CTC124-125 of the Peter Miller Community Technology Center.
There are eight candidates vying for three seats in the April 4 election. All have agreed to participate. They are (in alphabetical order) Julie Ajster, Rebecca Donna, Bill Hunt, Lori Ganey, Crystal Loughran, Jay McCracken, Teresa Schmidt and Angie Stevenson.
Each candidate will make a brief introduction and then answer questions from the audience. The event is open to the public. For information, call Mike Phillips at 815-224-0394.
College environmental biology
IVCC Dean of Natural Sciences and Business Ron Groleau said, “More than 20 years ago, Eric was hired for his commitment to excellence in the classroom. He brings this commitment to students outside the classroom as well. Eric’s 15-year tenure as Phi Theta Kappa faculty advisor illustrates his passion for contributing to overall positive educational and personal experiences for students.”
Phi Theta Kappa, the national honor society for two-year colleges, for serving 15 years as the college’s
9 PUTNAM COUNTY RECORD Putnam County Record / shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record • Wednesday, March 8, 2023 Affordable pricing varies with size of publication 1st Car/Drivers License Farewell New House Adoption Father's Day New ot> Anniversary First Communion Promo Baptism Forever Friends Quince � p..:_ � C � ! � !I■ Bar/Bat Mitzvah Graduation Re ireme � -Birth Announcement Grandparent's Day Senior Birth Birthday In the Classroom Sports Boss' Day Military Wedding Anno Confirmation Mother's Day Congratulations Moving * Pricing for personal milestones not intended for business use. Information, photo (optional) and payment must be submitted by 3pm 2 business days prior to publication. To submit a Milestone, please contact Chrissy Wawerski at cwawerski@shawmedia.com or call her at 1-815-431-4012
IVCC instructor recognized for 15 years as honor society adviser
Photo provided by Samantha Manahan Illinois Valley Community
instructor Eric Schroeder (with students in life science lab) has been recognized by
chapter advisor.
‘Illinoisans will be paying a very hefty price’
Local state lawmakers react to Pritzker’s budget address
By DEREK BARICHELLO dbarichello@shawmedia.com
Gov. JB Pritzker called Wednesday for making preschool available to every 3- and 4-year-old in the state within four years, starting with a $440 million investment to bring 5,000 additional children into the program this fall.
State Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, was glad to see the governor acknowledge the importance of child care during his address.
“Child care has been one of my top priorities that I truly believe should be a major focal point for the state,” said Rezin, who serves as the minority spokesperson for the Senate Early Childhood Education Committee. “I look forward to working on ideas and solutions to help benefit hardworking Illinois families who are struggling to gain access to this critical service.”
Rezin also said she was disappointed the governor’s proposal increased the state’s permanent spending by $3 billion.
“He is doing nothing more than
spending us into a major tax increase in the near future,” Rezin said. “If we commit to this permanent spending and the nation falls into a recession, Illinoisans will be paying a very hefty price. It may be difficult for the governor and the majority party to contain themselves, but we have to responsibly prioritize our state’s spending.”
Pritzker’s budget also includes $100 million to build facilities to house the expanded programs. There’s $70 million to expand participation in childcare for parents who need to work or attend school by increasing the income threshold, and $20 million to revamp the pro-
vider-payment system.
Pritzker declined to discuss other initiatives he would propose in the coming year after a $50 billion budget in the current year.
State Rep. Lance Yednock, D-Ottawa, said Wednesday’s address was the first step in the process of negotiating the state’s yearly spending plan.
“As a tireless advocate for our communities, I plan to thoroughly review the budget, as well as meet with local leaders and stakeholders to ensure our voices are heard in Springfield and our communities’ needs are being met,” Yednock said, noting affordable health care and an improved economy as his priorities. “I will push for a fair and responsible budget that invests in our schools, supports seniors and provides the resources we need to keep our communities safe.”
State Sen. Thomas Bennett, R-Gibson City, said he is in favor of ending “reckless spending” and “partisan pork projects.”
“The people of Illinois deserve something better than another partisan plan drawn up behind closed doors during the late hours of the night,” Bennett said. “State spending is at historic levels, yet we still keep hearing about crisis after crisis within state agencies, especially those that are charged with caring for
our most vulnerable citizens, including a director repeatedly being found to be in contempt of court.
“This broken process has to end. The taxpayers deserve an open and transparent process that prioritizes spending where it is needed most, and that shows discipline with their money.”
State Sen. Win Stoller, R-Germantown Hills, said there were many good things included in the governor’s budget proposal lawmakers can agree upon, “the fact remains that Illinois is facing a fiscal cliff and we simply cannot afford everything the governor wants if we are to avoid a major tax increase in the future.”
“Illinois is no longer receiving the massive pandemic stimulus influx from the federal government, so it would be fiscally irresponsible to continue spending as if that money will still be coming in year after year,” Stoller said. “It may be hard for Democratic lawmakers to accept, but we cannot continue creating new spending programs like millions of dollars for illegal immigrant welcoming centers. Before we create any new spending, we have a duty to address real issues and priorities like our growing pension liabilities.”
10 Putnam County Record / shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record • Wednesday, March 8, 2023 PUTNAM COUNTY RECORD Now’s the Right
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Jerry Nowicki – Capitol News Illinois State Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, said she was encouraged by the governor’s acknowledgment for the need of child care, but discouraged by spending she believes will lead to a tax increase in the future.
See BUDGET, page 12
Shaw Local News Network
The Oglesby Elks Lodge recently made a $70,000 donation to assist Lighted Way Children’s Developmental Center in La Salle with its new facility opening in August.
Under the theme “Elks Care, Elks Share,” the Lodge No. 2360 gift will help pay for a special outdoor playground at Lighted Way’s new home at 1445 Chartres St.
In an emotional ceremony at the lodge at 800 E. Walnut St., Ken Ficek, Elks past exalted ruler, grant coordinator and Children’s Care Committee member, said, “In our 57 years of existence, we cannot recall another event of this importance.”
Lighted Way Executive Director Jessica Kreiser and Jim and Amy Bolelli, parents of a former Lighted Way student, also spoke. The Bolellis daughter, Gabby, graduated from Lighted Way in May and died at age 22 in October. A piece in the new playground will be named the “Gabby Go
Round.”
A contribution to the Elks from the estate of Anita Copeland of Peru “was instrumental in our being able to make this donation,” Ficek said. Copeland died in April 2018 at age 91.
Ficek credited attorney Jim McPhe-
dran and Hometown National Bank’s Philip Slevin, Tammy Humpage and Peter Corgiat (retired) for helping facilitate the Copeland bequest.
Ficek lauded the work currently being done for 47 students at Lighted Way.
“If you visit Lighted Way, you will see very special people working with children who need help. When we heard they purchased the former nursing home on Chartres Street –Airport Road to us old-timers – we asked ‘How can we help?’ ”
The gift covers the entire cost of the playground’s flooring.
“Elk members feel our donation fulfills Anita Copeland’s wishes that her funds be used to assist children, especially those with special needs,” Ficek said.
Ficek was joined by Elks Exalted Ruler Lisa Fultz, incoming Exalted Ruler and Children’s Care Committee member Sam Sankovic, and former Treasurer and Children’s Care Committee member Paul Danekas.
“Elks invest in their communities through grant programs that help children grow up healthy and drug-free; meet the needs of today’s veterans; support the local food pantry, local schools, fire departments, ‘Shop with a Cop’ programs, Horizon House and PADS homeless shelter; and improve the quality of life where they recognize the need,” Ficek said. “New members are welcome. Be part of a benevolent organization that cares and shares.”
11 PUTNAM COUNTY RECORD Putnam County Record / shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record • Wednesday, March 8, 2023
Familyowned I N S U R A N C E S E RV I C E S CROPINSURANCE |SIGNUPDEADLINEISMARCH15TH Findouthowcropinsurance canhelpprotectyourfamily farm'sbottomlineagainst yieldormarketlosses. 416MainStreet,McNabb|815-882-2126 AJChambers,agent CampbellInsuranceisanequalopportunityprovider. 815-339-2323 Mon. - Fri. 8:30am to 5pm Closed Sat. & Sun. SM-PR2042487 Spring It On! Liberty Estates Elegant Retirement Apartments • Delicious Buffet Style Lunch and Dinner • Utilities and Weekly Housekeeping • Social Outings and Events • Free membership to AJ’s Fitness Center, located on-site • “Village Blend” Coffee Shop • Complimentary Wireless Internet Simply The Finest In Retirement Lifestyles Liberty Estates www.simplythefinest.net Peru • Streator For More Information Call 815-224-2200 or 815-672-1900 Not-For-Profit Providers SM-LA2054803 Oglesby Elks donates $70K to help pay for new playground
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Piece of new Lighted Way playground will be named after Gabby Bolelli
Elks spokesman Ken Ficek enjoys a laugh with Lighted Way’s Jessica Kreiser and Jim Bolelli. Oglesby Elks Lodge recently made a $70,000 donation to assist Lighted Way Children’s Developmental Center in La Salle with its new facility opening in August.
Rum for it! Fundraiser to help United Way
By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com
Want to raise a St. Patrick’s Day toast while helping out local charities?
Then visit the Facebook page for the United Way of the Illinois Valley and buy a bottle of limited-edition gold rum – they’re going fast – from Star Union Spirits.
Star Union Spirits in Peru agreed to partner with the United Way of the Illinois Valley and allocate a portion of sales from a barrel of United Way’s choosing. Board members selected a barrel of American Gold Rum, and 300 bottles were put on sale, ready for pickup at a tasting event starting at 4 p.m. Thursday, March 9, in the Westclox building on Fifth Street in Peru.
“It’ll be a good way for the community to support a fantastic cause,” said Bob Windy, co-owner of Star Union Spirits.
Star Union Spirits, founded in 2016, specialized in wine and brandy before expanding its repertoire of spirits. One of the popular choices is the gold
rum, so named because it’s aged in an old whiskey barrel, which increases smoothness, adds to the complexity of flavors and gives it what Windy called “a honey-like, amber look.”
A barrel yields 318 bottles, of which 18 were set aside for sampling at the March 9 event. Thyme Craft Kitchen in Peru, located across the street from Star Union, is preparing appetizers, including recipes that incorporate the gold rum.
“We invite everyone to join us,” said Julie Sloan, executive director of the United Way of the Illinois Valley.
“It’s sure to be a wonderful evening. Come out and enjoy some specially crafted spirits as well as some creative culinary delights.”
The United Way of the Illinois Valley supports the community by raising and administrating funds for local nonprofits that serve individuals and families in need.
The United Way of the Illinois Valley prioritizes funding agencies that foster independence, nurture children, provide basic needs and strengthen families.
• BUDGET
Continued from page 10
State Rep. Dennis Tipsword, R-Metamora, said the governor’s plan spends money Illinois doesn’t have. He said all priorities need to be heard and considered in the state budget process this spring by adopting an agreed revenue estimate and then limiting spending accordingly. He also said lawmakers and taxpayers need more access to participate in hearings, and more time to review proposals before they are called before the House for a vote.
“How we plan to spend $50 billion of the taxpayers’ money needs to be open for discussion and public review,” Tipsword said. “Transparency is a must.”
State Rep. Jed Davis, R-Newark, said the people of Illinois pay some of the highest taxes in the nation and he believed the governor’s proposal to be unsustainable.
“President Reagan said it best, ‘The top nine most terrifying words in the English language are: I’m from the government, and I’m here to help,’” Davis said. “Sadly, Gov. Pritzker is the perfect exemplification of this quote. Year after year,
he claims that he wants to help the people of our state, but his policies demonstrate the opposite.”
He said the governor needs to hold himself accountable for spending.
“This budget continues to move us in the wrong direction and will detrimentally harm families and the hardworking people of Illinois,” Davis said.
Freshman lawmaker Bradley Fritts, a Dixon Republican representing the 74th District, joined the chorus of those decrying a 7.9% increase in expenditures when revenue is expected to fall 2.8%, saying it will “further burden the taxpayers in the state.”
But Fritts credited the governor for expanding funding for rural hospitals, especially in light of the closure of St. Margaret’s Hospital in Peru. “Now, some women in my district have to travel over an hour to reach a hospital to give birth safely,” Fritts said. “This is unacceptable, and I commend Gov. Pritzker’s effort to assist the people of our state in accessing health care services.”
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• The Associated Press’ John O’Connor contributed to this report.
IVCC 1 of 9 to earn state recognition for cannibis production course
Shaw Local News Network
With 17 students enrolled, Illinois Valley Community College’s first Advanced Cannabis Production was a success this spring.
IVCC is one of only nine community colleges to earn Illinois Department of Agriculture licensure to operate a cannabis program under the Community College Vocational Pilot Program.
Jennifer Timmers, cannabis instructor and co-coordinator of the agriculture program, said with IDOA industrial hemp growers and processors licenses, IVCC’s program offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the Advanced Cannabis Production Lab.
Their work includes growing plants from seed, tissue culturing, and running an HPLC test to analyze cannabinoid levels in industrial hemp. Testing ensures students are working only with hemp plants, not marijuana.
For information, contact Timmers at 815-224-0495 or jennifer_timmers@ ivcc.edu
SM-PR2057717 When: Thursday, March 23rd & Friday, March 24th Where: Putnam County Primary School Times: 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Information: • Pre-registration is Required. • A biological parent or legal guardian Must be present at the screening with the child. • Children must be 3 years old by March 23, 2023 to be screened. • Must Bring: • Certified Copy of Birth Certificate • Proof of Income • Public Aid (if received) documents • Recent Physical with Immunizations. Free: Preschool Vision, Hearing, Speech, Language and General Development Screening Call for an appointment: 815-882-2800 (Opt. #1) for more information, contact L.E.A.S.E. 1009 Boyce Memorial Drive, Ottawa, Illinois 61350 • 815-433-6433 Putnam County Primary School Early Childhood Screenings! Calling All Parents of 3 and 4 year old children!! 321 S. McCoy St. Granville 815-339-2411 Carly Gonet Local Granville Agent SM-PR2058226 SM-PR2060512 PUTNAM COUNTY ROTARY AG NIGHT Thursday March 30, 2023 Putnam County High School 6 pm Social – 6:30 pm Dinner & Program Featuring MARQUIS ENERGY “WHAT’S NEXT!” PUBLIC WELCOME! RESERVATIONS REQUIRED (Reserve By March 24, 2023) $17 PER PERSON For reservations contact PutnamCountyRotary@gmail.com
Illinois Valley Community College’s Zackary Kimball works in the pruning and trimming lab as part of the Advanced Cannabis Production course.
Photos provided by Jennifer Timmers
Thank you for recycling your newspaper. Please Recycle Your Newspaper 13 PUTNAM COUNTY RECORD Putnam County Record / shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record • Wednesday, March 8, 2023
Students in the Illinois Valley Community College pruning and trimming lab include (from left) Liam Duffin, Shea Gilkerson, Dylan Strait and Tyler Lordon.
SERENA FALLS ON LAST-SECOND 3
Huskers finish with 27 wins and one of the program’s best seasons
By BRIAN HOXSEY bhoxsey@shawmedia.com
GRANVILLE – There is no scale to measure the frustration or disappointment on how any season ends.
But for the Serena boys basketball team, Friday’s loss to Chicago St. Francis de Sales in the Class 1A Putnam County Sectional championship game would have to be at the top of the chart.
St. Francis de Sales senior Aden Stuckey buried a 3-pointer from 25 feet with 0.9 seconds left to lift the Pioneers to a 59-56 victory over the Huskers at R.M. Germano Gymnasium.
“We’ve had a handful of close games this season that, like tonight, didn’t go our way,” Serena coach Dain Twait said. “I was hoping tonight we’d find a way to get one of these tight, down-tothe-wire games, but, and no fault of our kids, it just didn’t happen.
“I love these guys more than words can say. They’ve had one of the best seasons any Serena boys basketball team has ever had. This one is tough, no doubt, but nothing can take away from what these guys have done.”
The Pioneers (14-21) advance to play Herscher Sectional winner Bloomington Cornerstone Christian Academy at 6 p.m. Monday at Illinois State University’s CEFCU Arena in Normal.
Serena, which was playing in the program’s third sectional title game and first since 1998, finishes the season 27-9, one win short of the school record of 28 victories by the 1959-60 squad.
Of the nine losses for the Huskers this season, seven were by a total of 15 points.
“I’m right now thinking about the close games we had with both Seneca and Reed-Custer this year,” Serena senior guard Camden Figgins said. “They were all dogfights like tonight and back-and-forth games. Unfortunately, like those games, we just weren’t able to find a way to put the game away.
“We had so many chances, but they just didn’t work out, and then their kid hits the shot at the end. Props to him.”
Serena held a 56-53 lead with just over a minute to play after Figgins scored two of his team-high 18 points on a fantastic drive.
St. Francis de Sales tied the game with 45 seconds remaining on a 3 from the left corner by Brent McLain.
bounds under their basket with 11 sec onds left in the game, the Pioneers knocked the ball loose, recovered it and called time out with 5.5 seconds remaining. Stuckey received the ball near midcourt, dribbled to just left of the top of the key and let the shot go that swished through the net at the buzzer.
The officials put 0.9 seconds back on the clock, but Serena’s desperation attempt from just past halfcourt bounced off the side of the rim.
“He’s our best scorer and he’s been making tough shots for us all season, St. Francis de Sales coach Jawan Nelson said of Stuckey. We wanted to get the ball in Aden’s hands and have Brandon [Lowe] set a screen for him.
“Serena is a super tough team, and I expected a game like this, to be honest.
from the perimeter. I feel we play a tough schedule, mostly [Class] 3A and 4A schools, but even with that, I felt the biggest key coming into the game was that we would need to match their intensity and toughness.
“That’s a very, very good team we played here tonight. No doubt about it. What a great game.”
Serena trailed after one quarter 19-17 but led 31-28 at halftime and 42-40 heading to the fourth quarter.
Richie Armour backed Figgins, who also had four assists, with 16 points and four rebounds. Tanner Faivre added seven points and four rebounds, Bradley Armour six points and four rebounds, and Braxton Hart
“Everything we have accomplished this season as a team, it’s going to stick with all of us our entire lives,” Figgins said. “None of us are ever going to forget this season. This was a special team, and one I’m super proud that I was a part of.”
Lowe paced the Pioneers with a game-best 23 points and eight rebounds. Stuckey finished with 14 points, three assists and five steals.
“What makes this so much more disappointing is that we had the ball there with 11 seconds left and couldn’t get a shot off,” Twait said. “The guys ran the play exactly as it was supposed to be run, but they made a strip and in turn got the last good opportunity to score.
“The play just didn’t work.”
14 Putnam County Record / shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record • Wednesday, March 8, 2023 PUTNAM COUNTY RECORD
BOYS BASKETBALL – CLASS 1A PUTNAM COUNTY SECTIONAL CHANPIONSHIP:
56 SPORTS
ST. FRANCIS DE SALES 59, SERENA
Tom Sistak for Shaw Local News Network
Serena’s Hunter Staton eyes the basket trying to avoid the blocks by St. Francis de Sales’s Cyril Nichols (left) and Damarrion Walls during the Class 1A Putnam County Sectional final Friday.
Hatton unanimously named Tri-County All-Conference
By KEVIN HIERONYMUS khieronymus@bcrnews.com
Putnam County junior Ava Hatton was unanimously selected First Team Tri-County All-Conference.
Other unanimous picks were Seneca senior Kennedy Hartwig Marquette junior Lilly Craig and Roanoke-Benson senior Lexi Weldron. R-B freshman Brianna Harms rounded out the first team.
Putnam County senior Gracie Ciucci and Henry-Senachwine sophomore Kaitlyn Anderson were selected to the second team, while PC junior Gabby Doyle was a thirdteam pick.
Seneca’s Hartwig was voted conference MVP.
Putnam County wins 7th grade regional volleyball championship
15 PUTNAM COUNTY RECORD Putnam County Record / shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record • Wednesday, March 8, 2023
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Shaw Local News Network file photos
LEFT: Putnam County’s Ava Hatton was unanimously selected to the Tri-County All-Conference Team. CENTER: Gracie Cuicci was named second team all-conference RIGHT: Gabby Doyle was named third team all-conference
Photo provided
Putnam County captured the Seneca Regional championship, defeating Ottawa Wallace 25-16, 25-15. The Lady Pumas advanced to the sectional on Mondday at Lexington. Team members are (front row, from left) Samantha Marciniak, Mya Barajas, Britney Trinidad, Jaycee Dickey, Myah Richardson, Finely Rue, Avery Grasser, Layton Rue and Kennedy Holocker; and (back row) coaches Arika Richardson and Julie Zuniga, Tinlee Sistek, Alicia Barreras, Eden Carlson, Aurora Bickerman, Diana Ely, Natalie Villagomez and coach Shannon Jenkins.
CLASSIFIED
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SUMMER HELP WANTED
Lake Thunderbird Association is currently looking to fill the following posi ti ons:
Lifeguards
Season Starts Saturday, May 27, 2023
est . 1851
Sat., March 11 8am to 2pm
For Info Call (After 5pm)
815-866- 3606
767 • Mobile Home Sales
PUBLISHE R'S NOTICE
All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subjec t to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an inte ntion, to make any such preference , limitation or discrimination .”
Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or le gal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not know in gly ac cept any advertising for real estat e which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.
To complain of discrimination call, HUD toll-free at 800- 669-9777. The toll-free telephone numbe r for the he aring impaired is 800-927-9275
Part-time flexible schedul e wi th day and evening hours. (10am- 8pm) Current Lifeguard Certificat ion required ** weekends required **
St ar ts at $13.00 an hour depending on experi ence
Poolside Café / Pool Monitor workers
Starting May 20, 2023
Part-time flexible schedul e wi th day and evening hours. (10am- 8pm) ** weekends requi red **
St ar ts at $13.00 an hour depending on experi ence.
Security / Beach
Season starts Saturday, May 27, 2023
Part-time Tuesday- Saturday evening hours. Sunday and Mond ay days and evenings at the beach
St ar ts at $13.00 an hour depending on experi ence.
Security / Lake
Must be 16 years ol d with current IL
Driver's Li cense and pass our lake's boati ng quiz
Starts at 13.00 an hour depending on experience.
Summer Maintenance Crew
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Appl ications avail able at our websit e www.lakethunderbird.us or call the of fice 815-437-2757
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El igible to participate in 401(k)
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16 Putnam County Record / shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record • Wednesday, March 8, 2023 PUTNAM COUNTY RECORD
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18 Putnam County Record / shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record • Wednesday, March 8, 2023 PUTNAM COUNTY RECORD Get the most out of your lawn this spring. TruGreen® experts have designed over 50 regionally-based lawn programs based on local variables such as climate, soil, weeds, insects, and grass types. Call for your FREE, no-obligation quote today! 1-844-315-7055 TruGreen will gladly visit your property as needed between scheduled visits to ensure your satisfaction◆ Our TruGreen Lawn Assessment will examine your grass and soil types and tailor your plan based on the results.† Our tailored lawn plans utilize the latest technology and techniques that help make your lawn green and healthy. *Requires purchase of annual plan. Special price is for first Lawn application only. Requires purchase of annual plan, for new residential EasyPay or PrePay customers only. Valid at participating TruGreen locations. Availability of services may vary by geography. Not to be combined with or used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Additional restrictions may apply. Consumer responsible for all sales tax. †Purchase of annual lawn plan required forTruGreen Lawn Assessment, which is performed at the first visit. ◆Guarantee applies to annual plan customers only. BBB accredited since 07/01/2012. ©2023 TruGreen Limited Partnership. All rights reserved. In Connecticut, B-0153, B-1380, B-0127, B-0200, B-0151. 50% OFF* Save now with Your First Application
needs!
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice to Putnam County Voters
Early voting for the April 4th Consolidated Election will begin
February 23rd and end
April 3rd at the office of the Putnam County Clerk's office 120 N Fourth St, Hennepin, IL Voting hours are
Monday-Friday 9 am4 pm We will also be open Saturday, April 1st from 9 am-12 pm for early voting
Check out the ballot at https://putnam il.gov/
If you have any questions or would like further inform ation on the Consolidated Election, contact the Putnam County Clerk's Office at (815) 9257129
TINA DOLDER Putnam County Clerk & Election Authority
(Published in Putnam County Record March 1, 8, 15, 2023) 2058990
PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
PUTNAM COUNTY, HENNEPIN, IL PROBATE DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DIANE G. CHIADO, DECEASED.
NO. 2023-PR-3
CLAIM NOTICE
Notice is given to creditors of the death of Diane G. Chiado, of Granvill e, Illinois. Letters of Office were issued on February 16, 2023, to Ronald R. Chiado, of Granville, IL, as INDEPENDENT EXECUTOR , whose Attorneys of record are SCHWEICKERT
GANASSIN KRZAK RUNDIO, LLP, 2101 MARQUETTE ROAD, PERU, IL 61354
Claims against the estate may be e-filed in the Office of the Circuit Clerk, Probate Division, Putnam County Courthouse, 120 N. Fourth Street, Hennepin, IL 61327, or with the Representative, or both, within 6 months from the date of the first publication of this Notice If the claim notice is personally mailed or delivered to a creditor of the above estate, the claim must be filed in the above entitled cause within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery, whichever is later. Any claims not filed within the above periods are barred.
E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exceptions To e-file, you must first create an account with an e- filing service provider Visit https://efil e.illinois courts.gov/service-providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/FAQ/get help.asp.
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.
The estate will be administered without court supervision, unless under Section 5/284 of the Probate Act (Ill. Compiled Stat 1992, Ch. 758, par. 5/28-4) any interested person term inates independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Circuit Clerk.
Claims against the estate may be filed with the Office of the Circuit Clerk, Probate Division, Putnam County Circuit Clerk, 120 N. Fourth Street, Hennepin, IL 61327 or with the representative, or both, or, if mailing or delivery of a notice from the representative is required by Section 5/18- 3 of the Probate Act, the date stated in that notice. Any claims not filed on or before 6 months from the first publication of this notice are barred.
Dated: February 20, 2023
Carly Neubaum
Putnam County Circuit Clerk
Hennepin, IL 61327
(Published in the Putnam County Record
March 1, 8, 15, 2023) 2058244
PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL PUBLICATION NOTICE TO BID
THE COUNTY OF PUTNAM IS NOW ACCEPTING BIDS FOR THE MOWING AND TRIMMING OF THREE (3) CEMETERIES; FLORID, CALEDONIA, AND THE "OLD" GRANVILLE CEMETERY. THE BID SHOULD STATE THE COST OF EACH MOWING AND TRIMMING FOR EACH OF THE THREE (3) CEMETERIES. PROOF OF LIABILITY INSURANCE IS ALSO REQUIRED TO BE SUBMITTED WITH THE BIDS. BIDS MAY BE SUBMITTED TO THE PUTNAM COUNTY CLERK?S OFFICE, P.O. BOX 236, HENNEPIN, IL 61327. BIDS MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN 4:00 P.M. ON FRIDAY, APRIL 3, 2023.
THE COUNTY OF PUTNAM RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY OR ALL BIDS SUBMITTED.
CHARLES LENKAITIS, CHAIRMAN PUTNAM COUNTY BOARD
(Published in Putnam County Record March 8, 15, 22, 2023) 2060656
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF ILLINOIS
COUNTY OF PUTNAM
TOWN OF GRANVILLE
NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION TO VACATE ROAD
ROBERT DIXON as Highway Comm issioner of Granville Township, Putnam County, Illinois does give Notice that a public hearing under the provisions of 605 1LCS 5/6- 311, and other relevant statutes of the State of Illinois, shall be held at the Granville Township Office located at 212 S. McCoy Street in Granville, Illinois on March 14, 2023 at 7:00 o'clock p.m., at which time the Highway Comm issioner shall hear and consider reasons for or against the petitioned for vacation of the Township Road described as follows:
LEGAL DESCRIPTION follows:
A portion of East 1100th Street of Granville Township, a north-south road with a variable width right- of-way existing in Sections 17 and 18, Township 32N, Range 1 West of the Third Principal Meridian, with a starting point 435 feet north of the Southwest Corner of said Section 17, north along the Section Line to the existing right-of-way of N. 945 Avenue which is a distance of approxim at ely 2,011 feet, said point being approximately 220 feet South along the Section line from the Northwest Corner of the Southwest Quarter of Section 17.
Dated this 1st day of March, 2023.
Robert Dixon - Highway Commissioner Granville Township
(Published in Putnam County Record March 8, 2023) 2060142
PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNFICANT IM PACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS
March 8, 2023
Village of Granville
316 S McCoy
Granville, IL 61326- 9333
(815) 339-6333
On or about March 24, 2023 the Village of Granville will submit a request to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the release of Comm unity
Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending funds under (P.L 117- 103) of the Consolidated Appropriations Act [2022], as amended, to undertake a project known as Wastewater Treatm ent Plant Improvem ents for the purpose of making necessary repairs to the clarifier tank system to decrease the chance of major system failures within the Village of Granville. The grant amount requested is $350,000 from federal HUD funds.
The activities proposed are categori cally excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 35(a) from National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requirements. An Environmental Review Record (ERR) that documents the environm ental determinations for this project is on file at North Central Illinois Council of Governments (NCICG) at 613 W Marquette Street, Ottawa, IL and may be examined or copied weekdays 9 A.M. to 3 P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to NCICG. All comm ents received by March 23, 2023, will be considered by the Village of Granville prior to authorizing subm ission of a request for release of funds.
ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION
The Village of Granville certifies to HUD that Jared Baker in his capacity as Village President consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilitie s in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD's approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the Village of Granville to use Program funds.
OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS
HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and the Village of Granville's certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases:
(a) the certif ication was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the Village of Granvill e;
(b) the Village of Granville has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have comm itted funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisf actory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to HUD's CPD Region 5 Field office at 77 W. Jackson Boulevard, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60604. Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period
Jared Baker, Village President Village of Granville
19 PUTNAM COUNTY RECORD Putnam County Record / shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record • Wednesday, March 8, 2023 999 • Legal 999 • Legal
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(Published in Putnam County Record March 8,, 2023) 2059510
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