Putnam County Record_08302023

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PUTNAM COUNTY LIBRARIES SEPTEMBER ACTIVITY SCHEDULE

The Putnam County Library District announced its September activity schedule for all locations.

District

• Putnam County libraries will be closed Monday, Sept. 4, for Labor Day and will reopen Tuesday, Sept. 5.

• Putnam County Libraries will be joining season three of the Illinois Libraries Presentations that showcase author talks on Zoom.

The latest showcase features Colson Whitehead. Whitehead is a two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize and a No. 1 New York Times Bestselling Author. The showcase will take place at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6 on Zoom. The link will be available on the Putnam County libraries website.

• For National Library Card Sign Up Month in September, the PC libraries will have golden tickets hidden inside select books in the library. Anyone who finds a ticket will receive a prize.

Hennepin, 214 N. Fourth St.

Tour of the Milky Way event will be at 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8, with a rain date on Saturday, Sept. 9. Natural Lands Area outside of McNabb’s. Jack Schmitz will be bringing his telescope. Call ahead at 815-339-2038, ext. 1.

Cricut MakerSpace will be all day from Sept. 11-15. This month’s craft is car decals.

Traditional Jazz: A Historical Perspective of Early Jazz from the New Orleans and Chicago era will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16. Dr. John Cooper with the Illinois Humanities Road Scholars will present.

PCCC’s Outreach worker will be at the library from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sept. 21 to answer questions and discuss available benefits and services for older adults. No appointment is necessary.

STEAM 2 Go project will be throughout the month during library hours. September project will be robot hands.

Granville, 214 S. McCoy St.

Amazing Succulents event will be at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19. Master Naturalist with the University of Illinois Extension will present.

Local Author Reading from Lori Windows will be at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22. Windows is the author of Simiakia.

Susan Glassman with the University of Illinois will hold a healthy charcuterie board event at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27.

Book discussion group meets at 1 p.m. the second and fourth Monday of every month. No book is assigned to read. Group directed.

Tuesday Tea will be every Tuesday through November from 1 to 3 p.m.

Pre-K story time will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays and will include stories, snacks and a craft.

Tween time activity center will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturdays throughout November.

Invitation to create center will be all day on Fridays through November

Putnam, 105 N. Center St.

Books and brunch will be the first Saturday of the

PUTNAM COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT SEPTEMBER MENUS

The Putnam County School District announced the breakfast and lunch menus for September.

Friday, Sept. 1

Breakfast: Funnel cake or cereal, Go-Gurt, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Toasted ravioli with marinara sauce, baked beans, breadstick, fruit and milk

Monday, Sept. 4 – No school

Tuesday, Sept. 5

Breakfast: French toast with syrup or cereal, yogurt, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Pizza bites, green beans, fruit, sherbet and milk

Wednesday, Sept. 6

Breakfast: Biscuit and gravy or cereal, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Pasta with meat sauce, salad, garlic bread, fruit and milk

Thursday, Sept. 7

Breakfast: Cinnamon roll or cereal, string cheese, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Hot ham and cheese, veggie sticks with dip, cottage cheese, fruit and milk

Friday, Sept. 8

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs and toast or cereal and toast, Go-Gurt, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Chicken patty on bun, corn, fruit, ice cream and milk

Monday, Sept. 11

Breakfast: Doughnut or cereal, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: BBQ on bun, baked beans, pickles, fruit and milk

Tuesday, Sept. 12

Breakfast: Breakfast sandwich or cereal, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: French toast, hash browns, sausage, fruit and milk

Wednesday, Sept. 13

Breakfast: Muffin or cereal, string cheese, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Chicken wrap with lettuce, tomato and cheese; fruit, cookie and milk

Thursday, Sept. 14

Breakfast: Poptart or cereal, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Pork chop, rice pilaf, green beans, fruit and milk

Friday, Sept. 15

Breakfast: Pancakes with syrup or cereal, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Nachos supreme with meat, cheese, lettuce, tomato, sour cream and salsa; corn, brownie, fruit and milk

Monday, Sept. 18

Breakfast: Cereal and toast, Go-Gurt, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Chicken strips, corn, yogurt, fruit and milk

Tuesday, Sept. 19

Breakfast: Waffle with syrup or cereal, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: BBQ on bun, baked beans, fudge bar, fruit and milk

Wednesday, Sept. 20

Breakfast: Bagel with cream cheese or cereal, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Cheese stuffed breadsticks with marinara sauce, mixed vegetables, cottage cheese, fruit and milk

month. The event will feature food, books and friends.

Magnolia, 112 N. Chicago St.

Make a Family Tree event for kids will be during library hours on Tuesday, Sept. 5.

Kids paint night will be during library hours Thursday, Sept. 7.

Coin Collector event will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 12. Ken O’Mara from Oak Forest Coins and Dick Ashdown will be showing kids what to look for in coins during a show.

Casual book club will be for adults at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 16. Coffee will be available.

Kids are invited to make laminated placemats at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19.

Kids are invited to make friendship bracelets during library hours on Thursday, Sept. 21. Origami and duct tape art event will be for all ages at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26.

McNabb, 322 W. Main St.

Movie night will be during library hours on Wednesday, Sept. 13.

Phases of the Moon event will be during library hours on Wednesday, Sept. 27.

Standard, 128 First St.

Starved Rock State Park: The First 100 Years event will be at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 5. Starved Rock historian Mark Walczynski will present on the history of the popular state park that brings in more than 2 million visitors a year.

Thursday, Sept. 21

Breakfast: Sausage and toast or cereal and toast, string cheese, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Sub sandwich, chips, green beans, fruit and milk

Friday, Sept. 22

Breakfast: Cereal bar and toast or cereal and toast, yogurt, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Pizza, salad, cookie, fruit and milk

Monday, Sept. 25

Breakfast: Pig in a blanket or cereal, yogurt, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Hot dog, oven fries, fruit, sherbet and milk

Tuesday, Sept. 26

Breakfast: Breakfast pizza or cereal, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Chicken quesadilla with salsa, corn, fruit, Rice Krispies Treat and milk

Wednesday, Sept. 27

Breakfast: Funnel cake or cereal, string cheese, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Taco in a bag with meat, cheese, lettuce, tomato, sour cream and salsa; muffin, fruit and milk

Thursday, Sept. 28

Breakfast: Breakfast wrap or cereal, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: Cheeseburger on bun, pickles, baked beans, chips, fruit and milk

Friday, Sept. 29

Breakfast: French toast with syrup or cereal, Go-Gurt, fruit, juice and milk

Lunch: French bread pizza, green beans, fruit, ice cream, cup and milk

Serving is ‘highest honor you can have’ state’s attorney says

Veterans reflect on their service, memories of Vietnam at traveling memorial

By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com

Bob Hockings of Peru served as U.S. Army medic in the Vietnam War. He saw his share of action in the war and since then, there have been memorials and monuments he could not bear.

“I’ve seen too much,” Hockings said.

But he dutifully suited up with fellow veterans Saturday at Veterans Park in Peru. There, Hockings and his comrades honored those whose names are inscribed on the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall.

The wall, a 3/5th scale model of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C., stands 6 feet tall and spans almost 300 feet wide. It arrived Thursday amid great fanfare and was to remain open for public viewing through Sunday.

Replicas of the Middle East Conflicts Wall in Marseilles and the 9/11 first responders wall also were on

display.

“This doesn’t bother me so much as when I went on Honor Flight to Washington,” Hockings said of the experi-

ence. “I had to walk away. I couldn’t handle it.

“But I’ve been burying veterans now for 15 years with the memorial

Joe Navarro, Vietnam veteran, U.S. Marine Corps

squad and I’m kind of getting used to it – just like a funeral director, I guess,” Hockings said.

Hockings wasn’t the only veterans grappling with memories or blinking back tears while viewing the traveling wall.

Phil Valle, of La Salle, served in the U.S. Air Force from 1966-70 in southeast Asia, spending 13 months in Thailand. He was close enough to the combat zone have friends on the wall: Anthony Shine and his brother, Jonathan Shine.

“This is a special thing to me to be a part of,” Valle said, shortly before lineup. “It’s going to be an emotional day.”

See MEMORIAL on page 5

Scout Clean Energy is honored to have contributed to the Putnam County High School FFA club and the Putnam County Rotary’s Little Free Pantry.

Tom Sistak for Shaw Media

A couple of visitors to the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall are reflected in a monument Saturday at Veterans Memorial Park in Peru prior to a ceremony honoring those who are on the wall.

“I encourage you to serve your country. It is the highest honor you can have.”

Illinois Grain Tour to stop at Marquis Energy

SHAW

LOCAL NEWS NETWORK

The Illinois Department of Agriculture’s Grain Tour, which begins Tuesday, Aug. 29, and will host 31 international buyers from seven Latin American countries, will be making a stop at Marquis Energy in Hennepin.

The goal of the tour is to enhance existing relationships and increase export sales for the Illinois grain industry.

“The Illinois Grain Tour gives Illinois farmers, producers and retailers the opportunity to showcase their world-class commodities and facilities to foreign

investors,” IDOA Director Jerry Costello said. “We lead the nation in soybean production, and nearly half of the soybeans and corn produced in Illinois are exported, resulting in billions of dollars in direct sales annually.”

Participants will meet with representatives from the IDOA before making stops at RTS Farm in Auburn, GSI in Assumption, the Farm Progress Show in Decatur, the Illinois Soybean Association in Bloomington, Seedburo Equipment Co. in Des Plaines, Delong Co. in Joliet, MANNS Traders in Chicago and Marquis Energy in Hennepin.

Putnam businesses can apply for COVID grant through Sept.

11

Businesses located in Putnam County can apply for the Coronavirus Business Resiliency Grant Program through Sept. 11.

This program reimburses eligible businesses up to $20,000 for the durable, permanent or semi-permanent equipment bought or rented to prevent, prepare for or respond to COVID-19.

For information, visit ncicg.org/eddistrict-main/covid-19.

PCHS students invited to PC Rotary picnic Sept. 7

Putnam County High School students are invited to a free picnic at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 7, at Hopkins Park, located on Front Street in Granville.

The event is hosted by Putnam County Rotary to encourage participation in the PCHS Interact Club.

Interact offers students leadership experience as well as volunteer opportunities through helping others within the school, com-

munity and worldwide.

Members also learn about opportunities to participate in a districtwide weekend leadership camp, international youth exchange and learn about the almost 15,000 Interact Clubs in 145 countries.

Putnam County Junior High Interact Club members also may attend. For information, email putnamcountyrotary@gmail.com.

Chief Senachwine DAR opens chapter year Sept. 1

The Chief Senachwine DAR Chapter will open its new term with a meeting at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 1, in the social room at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 511 Wirt Street in Henry.

Refreshments will begin at 1:30 and the meeting will begin at 1:45 p.m. At the meeting, members can pay dues and chapter yearbooks will be distributed.

The Enjoy your Garden program will be given by Member and Master Gardener Barbara Dahlbach. –ShawLocalNewsNetwork

Continued from page 3

Saturday’s ceremony drew an intimate crowd – only a couple of hundred spectators scattered across the playing field – but then the wall is, by definition, an intimate experience.

Doc Russo, a veteran of the U.S. Navy Hospital Corps (1982-90), has served as wall manager for 16 years and has witnessed some emotional moments, and many times healing ones.

Addressing the throng, Russo said he is asked why he travels so extensively with the wall. In response, he frequently cites the

time a bereaved mother in West Virginia found her fallen son’s name on the wall. The Gold Star mom sought out Russo to say thank you.

“‘This is the first time in 47 years my son has been home,’” Russo recalled her saying. In the next breath he told spectators, “I don’t need another reason to do what I do.”

Another speaker, Marine Corps veteran Joe Navarro, grew choked up remembering not only his fallen comrades in Vietnam but also some who were permanently damaged in their valorous service.

Navarro, the La Salle County state’s attorney, said he first met veteran Orlando Capozzoli after he’d fallen on hard times. Navarro was prosecuting one of Capozzoli’s

brushes with the law when he delved into the man’s service record and was stunned, Navarro said.

Italian-born and with limited English, Capozzoli enlisted in the Marines at 17. He saved his unit in Vietnam by killing three machine-gunners (one with his bare hands) and was hospitalized with gunshot wounds of his own.

“He really suffered with demons throughout his life as a result of that experience,” Navarro said.

In spite of such tragedies, Navarro urged his youngest listeners to consider service in the U.S. Armed Forces.

“I encourage you to serve your country,” he said. “It is the highest honor you can have.”

Tom Sistak for Shaw Media A couple walks the length of the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall on Saturday at Veterans Memorial Park in Peru.

Hennepin town-wide garage sales set Sept. 29 and 30

Hennepin town-wide garage sales have been set for Friday, Sept. 29, and Saturday, Sept. 30.

Those who live in Hennepin or Hennepin Township and would like to list their sale on the town’s map can call the pool at 815925-7319 or send a message to hennepinparkdistrict@mchsi.com.

PCHS Interact Club to host blood drive Sept. 22

The Putnam County High School Interact Club will sponsor a Red Cross Blood Drive from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22, in the high school gymnasium at 402 E. Silverspoon Ave. in Granville.

The drive is co-sponsored by the Putnam County Rotary.

Students 16 and older, staff and community members will be able to schedule a time to donate. Blood donations also will help the school qualify for Red Cross Scholarships to be awarded in the spring. To register, visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-773-2767.

IVCC to offer internet safety class in September

Illinois Valley Community College’s Continuing Education Department will offer a three-session Computer Basics and Internet Safety class from 1 to 4 p.m. Fridays beginning Sept. 15. Students will become familiar with the basic features of Windows 10 and internet safety; the drive/folder/file management system My Computer (now called This PC); the Recycle Bin; desktop customization; apps installation, and running multiple programs

concurrently. Participants also will explore Gmail – which serves as the primary email account for the class –and various Google apps. The class will meet on IVCC’s Oglesby campus in Room A-209. The cost is $149. To register, visit computer basics and internet safety class or call 815-224-0427.

IVCC invites singers to join choir

The Illinois Valley Community College choir invites singers from the community to join its group Monday evenings.

“Anyone 16 and older may join,” choir director Jenilyn Roether said. “No choir experience is necessary, but a love of singing is.”

New members will be accepted through Sept. 11. Rehearsals begin Aug. 28, but there will be no rehearsal

Monday, Sept. 4, because of the Labor Day holiday. The group meets from 6 to 8 p.m. every Monday in Room D223 on the main campus.

The choir’s fall season will culminate with a concert at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 4. For information or to sign up, email jenilyn_roether@ivcc.edu or call 815-224-0223 and leave a message.

Master Gardeners to host succulents workshop Sept. 22

The University of Illinois Extension Bureau, La Salle, Marshall, and Putnam County Master Gardeners will hold a Secrets to Healthy Succulents workshop at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19, at the Putnam County Public Library, 214 S. McCoy St. in Granville.

Admission to the workshop is free and attendees can learn about proper succulent selection, propagation, maintenance and care.

The workshop also includes how succulents enhance the environment and promote healthy well-being. Registration is required to attend. To register, visit go.illinois.edu/succulentplant.

For information, contact 309-364-2356 or bettyann@illinois.edu.

– Shaw Local News Network

Erica Benson for Shaw Local News Network

Those who live in Hennepin or Hennepin Township and would like to list their garage sale on the town’s map can contact the pool at 815-925-7319 or hennepinparkdistrict@mchsi.com.

Photo provided

Secrets to Healthy Succulents workshop will be at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at the Putnam County Public Library, 214 S. McCoy St. in Granville.

OBITUARIES

GILDA E. DYSART

Born: August 28, 1925 in McNabb, Illinois

Died: August 19, 2023 in St. Charles, Illinois

ST. CHARLES, IL- Gilda (Capitani) Dysart, 97, died peacefully Saturday morning, August 19, after a period of declining health. She was home in her apartment at River Glen of St. Charles assisted living.

Gilda was born at the family farm in McNabb on August 28, 1925. Her parents Oscar and Alice (Edner) Hanson were both US-born. The Hanson family immigrated from Sweden, then farmed south of Granville, The Edners (the original family name was Andersson, but was changed to their hometown of Edena at immigration) lived in Chicago, but returned to Sweden to farm there again.

Gilda attended area schools and graduated from Swaney High School in McNabb in 1942, at the age of 16. Gilda recalled when Rural Electrification brought lights to the farm; she rode a horse to school, then drove the family car. No license required then. Following the

death of her father she moved with her mother to Granville. She took a job at the power company, where she met her future husband in 1945 when he was home on leave from the US army.

She married Brunis Capitani on June 30, 1946, at a ceremony in Granville at the Congregational Church. They resided with her mother before purchasing a home on South Street in Granville, which became her home for five decades.

Gilda and Brunis had three children, Mary Etta (1946), Mitzi (1956, died shortly after birth), and Randy (1958).

She worked for the power company office in Granville, with her husband at Capitani Brothers Hardware, and was the long-time assistant for the Putnam County Superintendent of Schools. She was well known to many educators as the keeper of the district’s film library. Because of that job she knew just about everything that went on in the local schools, much to her children’s chagrin. She also volunteered as a plane spotter during the 1950s.

She was a wonderful baker who always had treats for her loved ones, especially around the holidays. Her lemon squares were legendary among the family members. Her fruit

How to submit: Send obituary information to putnamobits@shawlocal.com or call 815-632-2534. Notices are accepted until 5 p.m. Friday for Wednesday’s edition.

cake not so much.

Brunis died in August 1980 at the age of 67. On August 30, 1986, Gilda remarried to Howard Dysart. Together they spent much time on the road, delivering travel trailers and enjoying their early retirement years. In 2002, Gilda and Howard moved from Granville to St. Charles to be closer to Mary Etta and her growing family. Howard died later that year.

Gilda stayed busy in her later years, helping take care of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, running errands for the family farm, Lenkaitis Holsteins, and offering her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren sage, if often uninvited, advice and opinions.

In 2017 she moved to River Glen. There she enjoyed meals in the dining room, watching basketball and game shows, and getting to know the residents and staff.

She was preceded in death her parents; husbands Brunis and Howard; daughter Mitzi; sisters Alva Koch and Birgit Lindquist; brother Roy Hanson; son-in-law Albert Lenkaitis; and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She is survived by her daughter Mary Etta Lenkaitis; son Randy Capitani and daughter-in-law Victoria Capitani; nieces Cheryl Mennie and Jeannie Blanton; nephew Norman

(Cindy) Capitani; granddaughters Elizabeth (James) Dorn and Victoria (Ryan) Stohlquist; and grandsons Albert (Rhonda) Lenkaitis Jr, Andrew (Sarah) Lenkaitis, William Capitani, and Wesley Capitani.

She was blessed with 12 great-grandchildren, Briley, AJ, Caden Denver, JT, Kate, Ella, Ethan, Isabel, Marshall, Lucas, and Norah. Gilda kept tabs on them all and never failed to call to wish them happy birthday or congratulate them on a milestone achievement.

Gilda cherished her family until her last day. That love was returned to her by all.

Memorial services will be held Friday, August 25, at 10 am at Dysart-Cofoid Funeral Chapel, 208 N. McCoy Street, Granville IL. Burial will follow in the Granville Cemetery. Gifts in Gilda’s memory should be made to Putnam County Historical Society, the Congregational Church of Granville or the charity of one’s choice.

Online condolences may be made to her family at www.dcfunerals.com

Saving strategies for young adults

When a person is young, saving money may be the furthest thing from his or her mind. After all, this may be a time to enroll in college or trade school, make a first big purchase, such as a car, or even get married. Thinking about establishing a solid financial footing for the future can take a back seat when life is filled with so many significant events.

But it’s never too early to start saving — even when saving seems to be an impossible task. Young adults should keep saving in mind and look to various strategies that can set them up for long-term financial security.

SET LONG-TERM GOALS

It’s easier to save when saving is attached to specific goals. While some

may aspire to retire early, establish an emergency fund or to purchase a home, others may want to save for an overseas vacation. Motivation to save can make it that much easier to do so.

DETERMINE WHERE YOU SPEND THE MOST

Saving money on smaller purchases will add up over time, but to really build a robust savings, figure out your biggest expenditures and how you can cut back to pad your savings. The Logic of Money reports that the average American spends more than 60 percent of their income on housing and transportation. Figuring out how to cut costs in these categories can be a great way to save.

USE CASHBACK APPS

Young adults are tied to their digital devices. Why not make them work for you? Free cash back apps give you money back for various purchases. Ibotta and Dosh are just two cashback apps available. Some can be linked directly to a credit or debit card to have passive income deposited directly. With others, you can cash out as a direct deposit or via a payment app like PayPal.

SET ASIDE ONE-THIRD OF YOUR INCOME

Make it a point to put away $1 for every $3 earned into a savings account, advises U.S. News & World Report. That is a good measure for establishing a rainy day fund. If you don’t trust yourself to transfer the money, have a set amount automatically deposited

from your paycheck into a designated savings account.

TREAT CREDIT CARDS LIKE USING CASH

The “buy now, pay later” option is an attractive trap to fall into. Using credit cards often is a safer way to pay merchants, because you’re risking others’ money rather than your own with a debit card. However, using credit can make it challenging to visualize what you’re actually spending. Do not purchase more than you can pay off within each billing cycle. Set account alerts on your phone to let you know when you’ve hit your budgeted credit card spending limit. Resist the urge to open and use too many cards.

MM22C517

How to decide if a home remodel makes financial sense for you

(BPT) - There comes a time when every homeowner looks around at their house and ponders a few upgrades. Sometimes, those ideas turn into full-on renovations as you reimagine your space to better meet your lifestyle. But before you start calling contractors, ask yourself: Does remodeling make financial sense?

Here are three tips to help you decide if a home renovation benefits your home and your finances.

IDENTIFY YOUR WANTS VS. NEEDS

How necessary are the improvements you want? Some home projects may end up costing you more than the value they provide. That doesn’t mean certain projects aren’t worthwhile.

“Home renovations come in all shapes and sizes. For some, it may be about the investment and increasing the home value, for a good few it might be about what looks the best, while others might not have a choice,” said Adam Fingerman, assistant vice president of equity lending at Navy Federal Credit Union. “Whatever the reason, it’s always a good idea to understand

how a large renovation might impact your finances and the overall value of your home.”

KNOW YOUR BUDGET

Consider creating a chart with all of your cost estimates, and include columns for high-, medium- and lowcost options. Don’t forget supplies for do-it-yourself projects and always allocate a certain percentage for unexpected expenses.

Also be sure to get estimates from different contractors and compare them. Carefully check references and business licenses.

EXPLORE FINANCING OPTIONS

Ideally, you’ve already established a home improvement savings plan. But if you’re planning to borrow, explore your financing options through your trusted bank or credit union.

“Think about the size of your project, whether or not you’ll have ongoing expenses, and your current finances,” said Fingerman.

For example, Navy Federal offers

members various options for funding home improvement projects, such as home equity loans, home equity line of credit or personal expense loans. Members also have access to a wealth of information to help them make informed decisions about the right financing products for their home improvement goals.

Home renovations of any size - large or small - can be overwhelming. Consider these tips to help make it easier and more affordable in the long run.

Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA. Equal housing lender.

FINANCIAL PLANNING

How confident are you that you’ll be able to retire?

check your retirement readiness is to use an online platform like Prudential Stages for Retirement.

This digital tool will take the information you share about your current financial life and retirement goals to determine your personal “confidence score,” which indicates your retirement readiness. In a few steps, you will have a clearer picture of your retirement based on how you are saving and investing today.

3.SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR

Once you have a clearer view of the big picture, you can meet with a financial advisor to help map out a step-by-step financial plan. If you do not have a financial advisor, you’re not alone.

Millions of Americans do not have a financial advisor. Some do not because they don’t know how to find someone they trust. Still others may feel an advisor is not for them, mistakenly thinking they need a certain level of wealth to engage a professional’s help. However, establishing a relationship with a financial advisor can

help you confidently plan for a better retirement and even give you an edge.

According to the Warrington College of Business, industry data suggests that people who receive professional financial advice can add 1.5%-4% to their portfolio returns over time. Enlisting the help of a financial advisor can make planning for retirement easier and grow your wealth so you can achieve your retirement goals instead of having “just enough,” or even not enough.

Through Prudential Stages for Retirement, you can set up a meeting with a noncommission-based financial advisor who will recommend strategies and products that can help you reach your retirement goals. They will look at your retirement confidence score and establish a personalized plan to help you refine your goals and determine if you’re on track to afford your retirement. You do not have to be an existing Prudential customer; anyone can get started planning a more secure retirement. To learn more and get started, visit Prudential’s Retirement Calculator.

(BPT) - More Americans are retiring earlier than previous generations. According to a survey by the Federal Reserve Bank, their odds of retiring before age 62 rose to roughly 50% in July 2021, partly due to the pandemic. For many, moving up their retirement seemed like the right choice given the state of the labor market and economy, but many were not and are still not financially prepared to retire.

According to a 2022 retirement confidence survey from the Employee Benefit Research Institute, one in three workers are “not too” or “not at all” confident they will have enough money to live comfortably throughout their retirement. And for those surveyed who say they are confident, retiring “comfortably” only covers the basics like housing, transportation, health care, food and utilities.

Retirement can mean a lot of things, but most people envision it as a time after their working life to enjoy things they may not have had the time to do before. While this looks different from person to person, many look forward to traveling, visiting family and enjoying hobbies.

Are you confident you will be able to

retire with your basic expenses covered and enjoy the post-work life you’ve imagined? Check these three things.

1.DEFINE YOUR GOALS

After decades spent working, the prospect of retirement can feel sudden, and some people may have difficulty envisioning what it will look like. When you picture your retirement, what do you see yourself doing? Traveling abroad and checking cities off your bucket list? Paying for your children’s or grandchildren’s weddings? Setting up a legacy fund for your loved ones?

If you don’t yet know what you want out of retirement, start thinking now. Without clear goals, you won’t know how much money it will take to reach them. Beyond your core living expenses, consider how you would like to spend your time during your “gogo” (the first 10 years of retirement), “slow-go” years (middle retirement), and beyond.

2.SEE WHERE YOU STAND

Now that you have defined your goals, it’s time to see how your savings, investments, retirement accounts and other assets can support your desired retirement lifestyle. An easy way to

SPORTS

PC alum Edgcomb takes over as IVCC volleyball coach

IVCC also has new coaches in women’s soccer, cross country

By KEVIN CHLUM kchlum@shawmedia.com

There are new faces among the Illinois Valley Community College coaching staff for the fall season with three of the school’s six fall sports having first-year coaches.

IVCC alumna Kaitlyn Edgcomb, a Putnam County graduate, will lead the Eagles volleyball program. She takes over for Erin Polte.

“Erin was a really educated coach,” IVCC athletic director Cory Tomasson said. “She did a great job for us here at IVCC. We’re sad to see her go. We had two applicants for the position and we really felt Kaitlyn would come in with some new energy. Her knowledge of volleyball is strong. She was a good volleyball player here. She’s really excited about this whole process of recruiting and getting her feet wet at the college level.

“She’s helped out at younger levels, volunteering here and there, but we really think she’ll bring some new energy to the program. With the recruits we have coming in and the people we have back, we’re expecting a lot of good things.”

The Eagles, who went 4-29 last year, opened the season at the Opening Weekend Tournament in Rockford.

In women’s soccer, Gerald Stuart comes to Oglesby from Arizona to take over the Eagles program.

“Gerald Stuart is from Phoenix. He was an assistant coach out there at a community college,” Tomasson said. “He has great knowledge of the game and has recruiting experience at the community college level. He came in

and it was a little late for us, so he has currently 12-13 players on the roster – I think they’re all local players.

“He said he’s committed to the program and will be here to build a winning program. He will be here next year he said and will build it even stronger. He has hit the ground running here and we’re expecting that program to take off. It had a couple years there where we were searching for a coach that would stay for a while. We didn’t have to cancel [a season]. We thought we might because of low numbers, but we’ve been pretty successful about getting other players in there. We’re trying to build those numbers up. He will be a real asset to

the athletic department.”

The women’s soccer team went 1-10 last fall.

The IVCC cross country program begins this fall under the leadership of Matt Baker.

“Right now we have six male runners and three for the women, so it’s a little slower start, but it was to be expected because many of the runners in the area had already been recruited when we officially announced we were going to have that and we had a coach,” Tomasson said. “I’m really happy that coach Baker has filled a roster for the men’s team. They’ll be able to compete with their six runners. The females will

compete individually. I can’t be more excited. I think now that we’ve established this, sort of like men’s and women’s soccer [a few years ago], the numbers will just start growing.”

Tomasson said IVCC is looking for a successful 2023-24 school year with athletic participation up with 150 athletes across the school’s 12 sports.

“We just did our numbers and even with women’s basketball being canceled, this year is the largest class of student-athletes we’ve had at the college since I’ve been here,” Tomasson said. “Everybody is out recruiting strongly. Our rosters are strong, and we’re looking for a really strong year out of our programs this year.”

Putnam County places second at Somonauk Tournament

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK

Putnam County went 2-1 to place second in Saturday’s Somonauk volleyball tournament.

The Lady Panthers beat Somonauk (25-20, 25-23) and Leland (25-14, 25-11) and lost to Hinckley-Big Rock (25-20, 25-23).

Maggie Richetta had 28 digs, 20 kills, 12 points, eight aces and seven blocks for PC (4-2), while Megan Wasilewski had 56 assists, 24 digs, 11 points, three aces, two kills and a block.

Putnam County def. Midland 25-7, 25-23: Megan Wasilewski had 23 assists, nine points and two digs to

help the Lady Panthers to a TriCounty Conference victory Aug. 24 in Varna.

Ava Hatton had eight kills and seven digs for Putnam County (2-1, 1-0 TCC), while Maggie Richetta had eight kills, six digs and two blocks.

Putnam County def. Mendota 25-14, 26-24: Megan Wasilewski had 17

assists and eight points to help the Lady Panthers to a 25-14, 26-24 victory over Mendota in a nonconference match Aug. 22 in Mendota.

Maggie Richetta had nine kills, six points, one ace, five digs and two blocks for the Panthers (1-1), while Ava Hatton contributed seven digs, five kills and an ace.

Shaw Local News Network file photo

Members of the IVCC volleyball team celebrate during their 23-25, 25-18, 25-20, 25-11 victory over Kishwaukee in an Arrowhead Conference match Wednesday in Oglesby. The Eagles improved to 4-2 overall and 2-0 in the conference.

SEASON SNAPSHOTS

Pick winning teams for every pro football matchup each week from Sept. 7 through the “Big Game” for a chance at weekly and end-of-season prizes. Set up public and private groups to compete against friends and family, (trash talking allowed!) plus, see how your picks compare to our area VIPs. It’s fun and FREE to play. Sign up today!

Shaw Local News Network file photos

Mya Richardson delivers a pitch for Putnam County on Aug. 11 against Marquette.

Hannah Heiberger delivers a pitch for Putnam County on Aug. 11 against Marquette.

under that Act.

FARM HELP

SECR ETARY / TREASU RER PART TIME

The Hennepin Publ ic Water Di stri ct has a part time position opening for Secr etary / Treasurer. QuickB ooks, payrol l, payroll taxes, account receivable billing and Microsoft Of fi ce is a plus Salary is commensurat e to experience

Please send a resume to: Hennepi n Public Water Dist rict , PO Box 114, Hennepin, IL 61327. Pl ease return the resume by Sept ember 8, 2023.

GREAT TWO DAY LABOR DAY ESTATE AUCTION

The Foll owing LIVE IN-PERSON AND ON-LINE Aucti on to be held at the Tumbleson Aucti on Center, 1635 North Main Street, Princeton, IL, located 10 0 miles West of Chicago, IL just off I-80, Exit 56, South on Rt 26. on:

SUNDAY, SEPT 3 & MO NDAY, SEPT 4, 2023

TIME: 9:00 AM OUTSIDE EACH DAY w/ Hayracks & 10 :00 AM Inside (Preview: 8:00 AM Day of Auction)

View FULL LISTING/PHOTOS & Abse ntee or Live On-Line Bidding on website: www.tumblesonauction.com or Bid Live thru Proxibid

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2023

LIFETIME COLLECTION OF QUALITY MECHANICS/SHOP TOOLS FROM RICH BARTMAN

ESTATE (Bill's Radiator Shop): Mostly Snap-On, Mac & Matc o Includ ing Tool Cabinets

COLLECTON OF OVER 70 FIREARMS, AMMO, GUN RELATED ITEMS, KN IVES & COLLECTION OF COINS

GREAT COLLECTION OF QUALITY PROFESSIONALLY FR AMED WILDLIFE & DUCK PRINTS

SM. GROUP OF DUCK DECOYS & ARRO WHEADS COLLECTION OF FARM MACHINERY TOYS & TOYS

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2023

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STERLING , GLASSWARE, STONEWARE & PRIMITIVES & LG CO LLECTION OF BARN LANTERNS

MODEL AIRPLANE COLLECTION In cluding Mode l Airplanes, Kits, Engines & Acc essories

SELLERS: LEONARD NELSON ESTATE, MALTA, IL & OTHERS

PLEASE NOTE: Tables of Box Lots to be sold to ON SITE BIDDERS ONLY at end of auction.

***ATTEND IN PERSON***

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QUALITY ASSU RANC

E LABORATORY TECHNI CI AN

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999 • Legal

PU BLIC NOTICE

CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PUTNAM COUNTY, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF KRISTI M. BIAGI, DECEASED

NO. 2023- PR-12 CLAIM NO TICE

Notice is given of the death of Kristi M. Biagi Letters of office were issued to Brian W. Biagi of 10021 E. Power Plant Rd., Hennepin, IL 61327 as Independent Administrator whose attorneys are Angel, Isaacson & Tracy, 111 Park Avenue East, Princeton, Illinois 61356.

Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Court, Putnam County Courthouse, 120 North Fourth Street, Hennepin, Illinois, 61327, or with the Independent Administrator, or both, on or before February 16, 2024, or, if mailing or delivery of a notice from the Independent Administrator is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act of 1975, the date stated in that notice Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Independent Administrator and to the attorneys within 10 days after it has been filed.

E- filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e- file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https://efile illinoiscourts.gov/service- providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider

If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www.illinoiscourts.gov/ FAQ/gethelp.asp

Dated this 9th day of August, 2023.

Angel, Isaacson & Tracy Attorneys for Estate 111 Park Avenue East Princeton, IL 61356 815- 875- 6551

2100401

999 • Legal

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE CIRCU IT COURT OF THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUI T CO UNTY OF ILLINOIS

PU TNAM COUNTYJU VENILE COURT IN THE INTEREST OF N.R.L., d/o/b

05/13/2009, Minor. NO . 20 22- JD- 005 NO TICE

To: James Lemke, location unknown

Take notice that on June 22, 2023, a petition was filed under the Juvenile Court Act of 1987 by Christina (Judd) Mennie, Putnam County State's Attorney, in the circuit court of Putnam County entitled "In the interest of N.R.L., a minor", and that in the Putnam county courtroom on September 28, 2023, at the hour of 10:00 a.m., or as soon thereafter as this cause may be heard, a First Appearance hearing will be held upon the petition to have the child declared to be a ward of the court under that Act. THE COURT HAS AUTHORITY IN THIS PROCEEDING TO TAKE FROM YOU THE CUSTODY AND GUARDIANSHIP OF THE MINOR, TO TERMINATE YOUR PARENTAL RIGHTS, AND TO APPOINT

THE COURT HAS AUTHORITY IN THIS PROCEEDING TO TAKE FROM YOU THE CUSTODY AND GUARDIANSHIP OF THE MINOR, TO TERMINATE YOUR PARENTAL RIGHTS, AND TO APPOINT A GUARDIAN WITH POWER TO CONSENT TO ADOPTION. YOU MAY LOSE ALL PARENTAL RIGHTS TO YOUR CHILD. IF THE PETITION REQUESTS THE TERMINATION OF YOUR PARENTAL RIGHTS AND THE APPOINTMENT OF A GUARDIAN WITH POWER TO CONSENT TO ADOPTION, YOU MAY LOSE ALL PARENTAL RIGHTS TO THE CHILD. Unless you appear you will not be entitled to further written notices or publication notices of the proceedings in this case, including the filing of an amended petition or a motion to terminate parental rights Now, unless you appear at the hearing and show cause against the petition, the allegations of the petition may stand admitted as against you and each of you, and an order or judgment entered.

Dated: this 4th day of August, 2023

Carly R. Zielinski

Putnam County Circuit Clerk 120 North Fourth Street Hennepin, Illinois 61327

(Published in Putnam County Record August 16, 23, 30, 2023) 2099367

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 prefer ence, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an inte ntion, to make any such preference , limita tion 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 child ren 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

TERMINATION OF YOUR PARENTAL RIGHTS AND THE APPOINTMENT OF A GUARDIAN WITH

R'S NOTICE

advertising in paper is Fair Housing makes it illegal to prefer ence, discrimination ace, color, handicap, or national inte ntion, to ch preference , scrimination .” status includes the age of 18 rents or le gal pregnant people securing child ren under paper will not ac cept any r real estat e olation of the eaders are hereby all dwellings is newspaper on an equal tunity basis. lain of ination call, HUD 800- 669-9777. telephone the he aring 275