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County Sheriff’s Office to award $500 scholarship
Deadline set March 14
By DEREK BARICHELLO dbarichello@shawmedia.com
The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association announced it will be awarding more than $58,000 in college scholarships throughout Illinois to students wishing to pursue higher education during the 2025-26 academic year, including in Putnam County.
The scholarships are to be applied to tuition, books and fees only. The students
must be enrolled full-time at a certified institution of higher learning within Illinois. Online learning is acceptable.
Putnam County Sheriff Joshua Boedigheimer will be awarding a $500 scholarship. There will be no restriction on any applicant because of race, age, creed, color, sex or national origin. The only limitations are as follows:
• Applicants must be permanent Illinois residents
• Scholarships must be used at institutions of higher learning in Illinois, including those offering online learning
• Students must be enrolled full-time
during the 2025-26 school year (excluding summer session). Applications are available at the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office or online at ilsheriff.org/youth-2. Students must complete the application, answer the essay question and return all documentation to the sheriff’s office in their permanent county of residence by March 14 (must be postmarked by this date). A directory of sheriff’s offices is available at ilsheriff.org/sheriffs-directory.
For information, call the sheriff’s office at 815-925-7015, high school advising center or college financial aid office.
Free tree sapling to be available at Granville library
Neighborhood Forest
to supply trees for Earth Day
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Putnam County Public Library announced participation in Neighborhood Forest’s 16th annual Free Tree Program.
Since 2010, Neighborhood Forest has mobilized more than 2,000 schools, libraries and youth groups, engaged more than 500,000 volunteers and given more than
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Granville library to host history of run program
The Putnam County Public Library will host food historian Cynthia Clampitt virtually at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, for a presentation on the history of rum. Clampitt will share the reason rum arose where and when it did, how pirates got involved, and who really said, “yo-ho-ho” (not the pirates), but also how rum helped united the Thirteen Colonies, why it became one of the issues that led to the American Revolution, how it also led to a revolt in Australia, and how it affected culture and history after that.
This program is free and open to the public. For more information, call the Granville Library, 214 S. McCoy St., at 815-339-2038. To register, visit https://2ly.link/20Icp.
197,000 children in all 50 states and six provinces in Canada the opportunity to plant a tree.
The program encourages youth about the importance of environmental stewardship through the magic and wonder of planting and watching trees grow, the library said.
To receive a free tree sapling, parents and/or guardians need to register their child(ren) online before March 15. The form can be found at the following link https://2ly.link/237X8. The tree saplings will be available to pick up at the Granville branch on Earth Day, April 22. Tree
Standard library to host Agatha Christie program
The Putnam County Library District will host “Agatha Christie - Woman of Mystery” at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, at the Standard branch, 128 First St.
Nearly everyone is familiar with the works of British author Agatha Christie, particularly gems such as “Murder on the Orient Express” and “And Then There Were None.” But what’s not so well-known is Agatha Christie herself. Find out what sort of person the “queen of mystery” was really like, uncover the secrets behind her divorce and sudden disappearance, and find out how she knew so darn much about poisons and how they worked.
– Shaw Local News Network
species will be announced in early April. Neighborhood Forest aims to provide native and/or fruit-bearing trees in all regions they serve.
Additionally, the library will be showing a free film screening of the documentary, “Intelligent Trees,” at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, at the Granville Branch, 214 S. McCoy St. This film follows scientist Suzanne Simard and forester and author Peter Wohlleben in investigating the communication between trees. The film is 45 minutes and is not rated. For information, call the library at 815339-2038.
Photo provided by Bob Windy
The Putnam County Public Library will host food historian Cynthia Clampitt virtually at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, for a presentation on the history of rum.
Man dies after apparent jump from Route 89 bridge in Spring Valley
Rescue crews found victim in Illinois River
By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com
A man was found Thursday in the Illinois River near Spring Valley after a passerby saw him jump from the ledge of the Route 89 bridge. He died after arriving at the hospital.
The man was taken to OSF St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Peru after rescuers in boats discovered him from the water. Putnam County Sheriff Josh Boedigheimer said resuscitation efforts were in progress when the victim was taken to the
hospital. Boedigheimer said the man died shortly after he arrived at OSF.
The sheriff said at 5:11 p.m. Thursday a passerby saw the man get out of his vehicle and jump from the bridge’s ledge. The act appeared to be intentional, Boedigheimer said.
First responders from at least seven police, EMS and rescue teams assembled at the Spring Valley Boat Club during the rescue.
The death remains under investigation and the La Salle County Coroner’s Office is expected to release any further information.
Photos by Scott Anderson
ABOVE: Spring Valley and Standard firefighters responded to a water rescue along the boat ramp on Thursday, Jan. 16, at the Spring Valley Boat Club in Spring Valley. LEFT: Dozens of first responders respond for a water rescue along the boat ramp on Thursday, Jan. 16, at the Spring Valley Boat Club.
More than $45K in scholarships available through SRCCF
By DEREK BARICHELLO dbarichello@shawmedia.com
Through the generosity of several donors, more than $45,000 in scholarships will be available in 2025 from the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation, including two new awards.
The SRCCF scholarship application period is open through 5 p.m. Friday, March 7. Visit www.srccf.org for the application and information. Awards range from $500 to $10,000, including:
• Rising Star Scholarship, a $5,000 award established by retired teacher Ethel McConnell of Ottawa for a student pursuing an elementary education degree at Illinois State University.
• Carol and Dick Janko Scholarship for Promising Entrepreneurs, awarded to students who intend to create their own business upon college graduation. The Janko awarded $8,000 to four students in 2024.
Alex Jagers of Princeton (left) with Matt Janko, representing his grandparent’s scholarship for “promising entrepreneurs,” at the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation scholarship reception June 24, 2024.
• Internet of Things (IoT) Scholarship for Science, Engineering and Technology, presented by Advantech, offers a pair of $2,500 scholarships to a male and female student.
• Mac-Aero Scholarship for Aeronautics and Aviation, a $10,000 award established by Ethel McConnell to honor her late husband Ed, who had a
√
√ You or those around you have risk factors for severe illness
Starved Rock Country Community Foundation founder Pamela Beckett (left) poses for a photo with $2,500 Janko award winner Jenna Gammons of Ottawa.
passion for aviation.
• Tangled Roots Brewing Company
Pie It Forward Scholarship, which offers $1,000 for students pursuing a career in hospitality and/or culinary arts.
• Charles H. Beckett Scholarship for Culinary Arts, a $2,500 award established by Chuck Beckett of Ottawa to support a student in the Culinary Arts Manage -
ment program at Joliet Junior College.
• Women Inspired Network Young Leaders Scholarship, two $3,000 awards for female students who have demonstrated significant leadership skills and accomplishments throughout their high school or college career.
See SRCCF, page 6
ADAM AND IDA DECK COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP
HENNEPIN VOCATIONAL GRANT KENNEY GRANT
The Village of Hennepin would like to remind Putnam County graduating Seniors that the deadline is fast approaching to apply for the Adam and Ida Deck College Scholarship. The scholarships will be subsidized through proceeds realized from the Adam and Ida Deck Scholarship Fund. First-place recipient will receive four consecutive yearly payments of $2000, and the Second-place recipient will receive $1500 per year. These scholarships are awarded on the basis of scholastic ability.
√ You or those around you were recently exposed, are sick, or are recovering *Stay home and away from others until, for 24 hrs and Your symptoms are getting better You are fever-free (without meds) Then take added precaution for the next 5 days
815.872.2324 220 East High St., Suite 101, Hennepin, IL bpmhd.org
The Hennepin Vocational Grant provides for a grant of $2000 for first place, $1500 for second place and $1000 for third place. This Grant is also subsidized through the Adam and Ida Deck Scholarship Fund. These grants are for one year only.
Applicants for the above awards must live in Hennepin Township. Deadline for application submission is February 15th.
In addition, Kenney grants are also available with a one-time award of $500. This Grant is subsidized through proceeds realized from the Harold and Julia Kenney Education Fund. No limit of recipients. Applications must be received no later than 90 days after the student begins their first year of study beyond High School. For the Kenney grant, applicants must reside in the Village of Hennepin. For guidelines and applications, visit our website at www.villageofhennepin.com.
Photo provided by Sally Van Cura
Photo provided by Sally Van Cura
Ethel McConnell (center) poses for a photo with her scholarship recipients Ella Kamke (left) and Lily Keutzer.
Photo provided by Fran Brolley
Five retired professionals were recognized Wednesday, Jan. 15, by the Illinois Valley Community College Board of Trustees for the honorary title of emeritus that was awarded in December. A short reception in their honor followed the announcement. Pictured are (from left) Stephen Alvin, Jane Sack, Rose Marie Lynch, Robert P. Marshall and Bonnie Campbell.
IVCC recognizes emeritus recipients, offers new education certificate
By DEREK BARICHELLO dbarichello@shawmedia.com
Nine retired professionals were awarded with the honorary title of emeritus during the Illinois Valley Community College Board of Trustees meeting in December.
Recognized during the meeting Jan. 16 were administrators Robert P. Marshall and Bonnie Campbell and faculty members Stephen Alvin, Rose Marie Lynch and Jane Sack. Also awarded emeritus status in December were Sue Isermann, Daniel O’Connor, James Stevenson and Linda Hawkins.
In other action, the board approved a new early childhood education certification that focuses on creating new leaders and mentors in the field.
The ECE Director Qualified Certificate introduces a class in coaching and leadership to existing administration and early-childhood education courses to create a streamlined and comprehensive program tailored to child care workers who want to advance, ECE program coordinator Tammy Landgraf said. Licensed child care facilities are required to have director-qualified employees on-site, and trainer/mentors are always in demand, she said.
Graduates will be able to list a program of study that sets out their qualifications to licensing representatives. The new certification, recommended by the college curriculum committee, still needs state approval, but the first class is
expected to enroll in the 2025-26 school year.
In her monthly report, President Tracy Morris noted that:
• Early spring semester enrollment has increased by 6.35% in headcount and 12.77% in credit hours compared with spring 2024.
• Transformative Growth, IVCC’s mental health provider partner, provided 615 total counseling sessions in the 2023-24 school year and organized 42 activities for students, staff and the community.
• The Truck Driver Training Program recently received a $300,000 grant from the Illinois Community College Board to promote trade programs to high school students.
In other action, the board also:
• Authorized the purchase of independent audio-visual systems for CTC conference rooms, a test kitchen and a yoga studio from Intech Innovations of Washington, Illinois, for $323,955.
• Authorized a furniture purchase for a distance learning classroom from KI of Green Bay, Wisconsin, for $27,120.
• Learned of the appointments of Danielle Bell, student services administrative assistant, and Sarah Ursini, financial aid administrative assistant.
• Learned of the resignations of Dustin Lawless, professional tutor; Michael Furlan, professional tutor (who remains a part-time instructor); Kelly Shymanski, workforce careers navigator, and Jen Hauser, CNA instructor.
•
• Social Outings and Events
• Free Membership to AJ’s Fitness Center, located on-site
• “Village Blend” Coffee Shop
• Complimentary Wireless Internet
CONNECTING POINT COMPUTER’S EXPERT IT TEAM
Photo provided by Peggy Schneider
PUTNAM COUNTY JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL HONOR ROLL, 2ND QUARTER 2024-2025
Putnam County Junior High School
Michael Padilla, Laila Rivera, Grayson Savery, Eli Schrowang, Trenity Thomas, Aubrey Zborowski
Seventh grade
HIGH HONOR ROLL
Sixth grade Karson Actis, Liam Askeland, Jacob Borri, Lucas Buettner, Guiliana Cimei, Hans Frund, Addison Goetz, Evelyn Grasser, Hunter Heckman, Hudson Heiberger, Marshall Holocker, Liam Judd, Carter Keller, Brayden Kierski, Mason King, Sean King, Mia Mennie, Allyza Mucu, Jace Newsome,
Garrett Billups, Lillian Bouxsein, Davis Carlson, Jio Castro, Chloe Christiansen, Ayden Dienst, Savanah Grasser, Natalie Guadiana, Anniston Judd, Emily Knoczak, Avery Lenkaitis, Brendon Linton, Andrew Mathney, Brennen McDonald, Colton Nicoli, Jolene Poole, Anthony Popurella, Isaac Rodriguez, Annabella Sondgeroth
• SRCCF
Continued from page 4
• Stephen Charles Vogler Scholarship for Electronics and Communications, a $1,220 award established by Starved Rock Media President John Spencer for students pursuing an electronics or communications degree at Illinois Valley Community College.
• Robert J. and Ellen G. Moore Memorial Scholarship for Fieldcrest High School and Wenona students.
The amount will be based on financial need, and more than one Moore scholarship may be awarded.
• Molly Lenora Yacko Memorial Scholarship, a $1,000 award funded by proceeds from the Run Today for Tomorrow 5K in Ottawa. It rewards a college junior or senior who is pursuing a mental health-related degree and plans to return after college to work in Starved Rock Country.
• Streator Leading Ladies Maxine Wargo Working Women’s Scholarship, a $500 award for women return-
ing to school after a year or more absence. It honors Maxine Wargo, a businesswoman and role model for women in Streator.
New Starved Rock Country Community Foundation scholarships are the:
• Dolores “Dee” Heflebower Memorial Nursing Scholarship, a $3,000 scholarship for students pursuing a registered nursing degree at IVCC.
• Robert Cotner Memorial Scholarship for students studying English literature or fine arts. The $1,500 schol-
Zimmerlein, Wyatt Rue
Seventh grade
Anahi Avila, Izzy Bartoluzzi, John Cooper, Calvin Fiedler, Luke Gabrielse, Makenna Goulding, A.J. Kloet, Nathaniel Lenczewski, Luis Ramirez, Garrit Smith, Nolan Weddell
Eighth grade
Tayton Brown, Ian Durdan, Kya Fox, Joselyn Lopez, Carson McDonald, John Placher, Peyton Smith, Paityn Soule, Callen Wiesbrock, Makenna Wrobleski
arship will award students studying literature, painting, sculpture, photography, music, dance or theater.
The application covers the student’s academic history, honors, leadership, community service, employment and extracurricular activities. It also requires a separate essay for each scholarship and two letters of recommendation from educators.
For information, contact SRCCF Director of Operations Janice Corrigan at 815-252-2906, ext. 2, or janice@ srccf.org.
Village of Hennepin Residents
As a reminder, Golf carts and UTVs must be registered with the Village of Hennepin to be used on Village streets. Each year, a new color-coded sticker must be purchased. If your vehicle was registered in 2024, you will receive a reminder in the mail or email. If you change vehicles, a new form will be required. Cost per sticker is $10. You can find the registration form on our website at www.villageofhennepin.com or request one by calling 815-925-7138. You may also stop by the Village Hall on Wednesday afternoons to fill out a form. Mail your completed registration form with the $10 registration fee to Village of Hennepin, PO Box 194, Hennepin, IL 61327. You will receive your color-coded sticker in the mail.
BARBARA FAYE MATIAK
Born: February 2, 1941 in Peru, Illinois
Died: January 5, 2025 in Spring Valley, Illinois
Barbara Faye Matiak, 83, of Spring Valley passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2025 at Goldwater Care, Spring Valley.
Burial will be in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. Dysart – Cofoid Funeral Chapel in Granville will be assisting the family with the arrangements.
Barbara was born on February 2, 1941 in Peru to John and Kati Hansen.
She married Gene L. Matiak on December 25, 1961.
Barbara was a homemaker. She and her
SANDRA S. FLAHERTY
Born: June 18, 1963 in Sycamore, Illinois
Died: January 11, 2025 in Peoria, Illinois
Sandra S. Flaherty, 61, of Mark, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
In accordance with Sandra’s wishes, there will be no formal services. Cremation rites will be accorded, and Dysart-Cofoid Funeral Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.
Sandra was born on June 18, 1963, in Sycamore, Illinois, to Robert and Betty (Brown) Haub. She married the love of her life, Tim Flaherty, and together they celebrated 35 years of marriage.
Sandra worked as a waitress and bartender
husband loved to travel and would go visit friends and relatives on many of their trips. They also enjoyed eating out.
She and her husband, Gene were long time supporters of IVAR in LaSalle.
Survivors include one sister, Rose Hansen of Ottawa. She also had a dearly beloved cat named, Little Runt.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.
Online condolences may be made to her family at www.dcfunerals.com
for various establishments throughout her life. She had a passion for cooking, canning, crafting, and refinishing furniture, Sandra also had a special love for raising Shih Tzu puppies, which brought her great joy. She will be remembered for her endless compassion for others and deeply caring nature. Touching the lives of everyone she met.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Tim Flaherty of Mark; her son, Eric Flaherty (fiancée Alyssa Holmes); her daughter, Jessica Flaherty (Greg Simms); and her four beloved grandchildren, Mariska Beck, Lovelyn Beck, Owen Flaherty, and Journey Flaherty.
Sandra was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, and a niece.
Online condolences may be made to her family at www.dcfunerals.com
RONALD “DOBY” A. DOBRYDNIA
Born: August 23, 1937 in La Salle, IL
Died: January 13, 2025 in Hennepin, IL
Ronald “Doby” A. Dobrydnia, 87, of Hennepin, passed away peacefully at home on January 13, 2025.
A visitation will be 9:30 to 11:00 AM Thursday, January 16, at the Hurst Funeral Home in La Salle followed by a burial at 11:30 AM at the Ladd Cemetery with full military services conducted by the Ladd American Legion.
Doby was born in La Salle on August 23, 1937 to Edward and Julia (Marlo) Dobrydnia. He married Ruth Felten on November 19, 1960. He served with the United States Navy from 1955-1958 touring 32 countries while aboard the USS McCaffery. Doby worked for
RICHARD “RICHIE” R. WEIDE
Born: October 10, 1955 in Peru, IL
Died: January 4, 2025 in Spring Valley, IL
Richard “Richie” R. Weide, 69, of Oglesby passed away on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Goldwater Care, Spring Valley, after a three and a half year battle with cancer.
There will be no service per his request.
Dysart – Cofoid Funeral Chapel will be assisting the family with the arrangements.
Richie was born on October 10, 1955 in Peru to Richard H. Weide and Elizabeth “Betty” (Muhich) Napier.
the Rock Island/CSX Railroad for 40 years, retiring in 1998. He enjoyed collecting coins and going fishing.
Doby is survived by his wife Ruth of Hennepin; four children: William (Jennifer) Dobrydnia of GA, Cindy (Dave) Ficek of Peru, Gary Dobrydnia of Hennepin, and Lynn (Ron) Urnikis of Granville; five grandchildren Austin, Jake, Jeremiah, Ashley, and Amanda; four great-grandchildren Cayden and Brenley, Riley, and Avery; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one grandson Brandon, and one sister Marlene Willmer.
Online condolences may be viewed and remembrances shared at www.hurstfuneralhomes.com.
He graduated from LaSalle/Peru High School. He was an operator at Lonestar Cement Plant. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.
Survivors include his mother, Elizabeth “Betty: Napier; two brothers, Rodnie Weide and Dimitri Weide; half sister, Deirdre Worple and step sister, Cindy Rzeszewski and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father and his grandparents.
Online condolences may be sent to his family at www.dcfunerals.com
Tax credit takes effect for donors to SRCCF endowment funds
Illinois Gives Tax Credit Act incentivizes giving back to community
By DEREK BARICHELLO dbarichello@shawmedia.com
The Starved Rock Country Community Foundation received state approval as a qualified community foundation for the new Illinois Gives initiative.
Illinois Gives will incentivize up to $100 million in new charitable giving in the next five years by authorizing a 25% state income tax credit for charitable donations to eligible permanent
endowments held by the SRCCF and is being administered by the Illinois Department of Revenue. Unlike traditional charitable deductions, this credit is available to all taxpayers, whether or not they itemize deductions. It’s an accessible and inclusive way to make a meaningful impact while reshaping support for local communities, SRCCF said in a news release.
Effective for tax years ending on or after Dec. 31, 2025, the Illinois Gives Tax Credit Act creates a state income tax credit for donors who contribute to one or more permanent endowment funds held by the SRCCF during a taxable year. Income tax credits cannot exceed $100,000 per taxpayer per year. The endowment funds provide charita-
Job change?
or changing
There are four potential options for your 401(k) when leaving an employer:
• Leave it in your former employer’s 401(k) plan, if allowed by the plan.
• Move it to your new employer’s 401(k) plan, if you’ve changed employers and your new employer plan allows for it.
• Roll the account over to an individual retirement account (IRA).
• Cash it out, which is subject to potential tax consequences.
We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.
Mary F Chambers, WMCP®, AAMS™ Financial Advisor
329 5th Street Lacon, IL 61540 309-246-2008
ble grants exclusively for the benefit of charities and charitable projects located in the state. Several eligible endowment funds are currently held by the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation, and new endowments may be created in keeping with the SRCCF policies and procedures. The SRCCF will accept contributions eligible for income tax credits and issue certificates of receipts to donors.
Endowed funds at the SRCCF provide a predictable source of general operating and capital funding for a wide range of nonprofit organizations and programs throughout the state. Sustaining local nonprofits for many years to come is possible by incentivizing endowment gifts through Illinois Gives. Those gifts provide a steady
stream of income to greatly benefit nonprofit organizations providing vital services and strengthening communities.
Taxpayers eligible for Illinois Gives include individuals, corporations, partnerships, trusts and estates. For individual taxpayers, Illinois Gives provides new tax relief for those who do not itemize their taxes. In enacting Illinois Gives, the state of Illinois recognizes that nonprofit businesses, which collectively employ 11% of the workforce, are vital contributors to the economy.
For information about the Illinois Gives Tax Credit Act, visit tax.illinois. gov/programs/illinoisgives.html or the SRCCF website at srccf.org or call the SRCCF office at 815-252-2906.
SPORTS
TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY
1973: George Foreman TKOs Joe Frazier in two rounds to win the WBC and WBA heavyweight boxing titles in Kingston, Jamaica. Frazier is knocked down three times in both the first and second rounds.
Hall’s Larson is going home to Pleasant Plains FOOTBALL
After one season, Red Devils coach departs to take over at alma mater
By KEVIN HIERONYMUS khieronymus@shawmedia.com
Logan Larson wasn’t planning on leaving Hall High School after one season as head football coach.
Then an opportunity to go home arose that he couldn’t pass up.
Larson was offered and accepted the head coaching position at Pleasant Plains, his alma mater, on New Year’s Day. He is expected to be approved at the Pleasant Plains School Board meeting Jan. 27.
“It wasn’t an easy decision by any means at all. It wasn’t the plan to leave Hall after a year. It just came down to making an adult decision and doing what was best for me,” Larson said. “It’s my alma mater, so I’m excited to go back.”
Larson had wanted to be a head coach for as long as he can remember and is grateful for Hall for giving him that opportunity.
“I’ll never forget those group of kids and I wish the absolute best for them,” he said. “I know that group’s got a lot of potential. Bunch of good kids, good people at the school. I know they’ll be able to find a good replacement and the school will do what’s best for them.”
Larson, who graduated from Pleasant Plains in 2013 after playing two seasons at Springfield Sacred Heart-Griffin, will be teaching athletic PE at Pleasant Plains. At Hall, he said he was “doing a little bit of everything” from substitute teaching, serving lunch and driving a van.
The Pleasant Plains job opened after the resignation of head coach John Hambelton in November after seven seasons. Hambelton is expected to stay on the Cardinals’ staff.
The Cardinals finished 2-7 last fall and went 23-39 in the seven seasons under Hambelton, highlighted by a 7-4 record and a Class 3A second-round playoff appearance in 2018, his first season.
Logan Larson has departed as Hall High School football coach after only one season to take over as head coach at Pleasant Plains, his alma mater. Both the Pleasant Plains and Hall football teams posted 2-7 records last season. ON THE COVER: Larson watches his team run drills during the first day of practice on Aug. 12, 2024, at Hall High School.
The Pleasant Plains program started in 2004, making six playoff appearances in 20 years, including a state runner-up finish in Class 3A in 2017, losing to Elmhurst IC Catholic.
“Took them a while to have some success. It’s kind of been here and there,” Larson said. “Brody Walworth, who’s coaching at Normal U-High, was my offensive coordinator my senior year, became the head coach two years later and had good success.
“Looking to have success there.
Every sport there is super successful. We’ve just got to find a way to make sure football is successful, too.”
The Red Devils went 2-7 last fall under Larson’s direction, 1-4 in Three Rivers Mississippi play. He was the first Hall head coach hired with no ties to the school in 45 years.
Larson came to Hall-Putnam County last May after serving as an assistant coach for three years for 2023 Class 2A state runner-up Athens.
Hall athletic director Eric Bryant
said Hall will reopen the Red Devils position immediately.
The Hall football job is the fifth in the Illinois Valley to open since the end of the season.
Ottawa Marquette filled its vacancy quickly with longtime assistant Ken Carlson after the resignation of Tom Jobst after 15 years.
The La Salle-Peru job remains open after the resignation of Jose Medina.
Mendota will announce its new coach next week.
Scott Anderson file photo
Seneca draws top seed for TCC tournament Jan. 25-31
By KEVIN HIERONYMUS khieronymus@shawmedia.com
Seneca landed the No. 1 seed for the 2025 Tri-County Conference Boys Basketball Tournament, which will run Jan. 25-31.
The Irish stood 14-4 (4-0 TCC) at the time of the seeding meeting Jan. 14.
The remaining top four seeds went to Roanoke-Benson (7-8, 4-0) at No. 2, Woodland (12-5, 3-1) at No. 3 and Dwight (9-10, 3-1) at No. 4.
The tournament starts Saturday, Jan. 25, at the site of the higher seeds for play-in games. No. 7 St. Bede (8-11, 1-2) will host No. 10 Putnam County (0-16, 0-4) while No. 8 Midland (4-12, 1-3)
will host No. 9 Henry-Senachwine (3-14, 0-4).
The event shifts to RM Germano Gymnasium at Putnam County High School on Monday, Jan. 27, for the quarterfinals.
On Jan. 27, Seneca will draw the winner between Midland and Henry-Senachwine at 5:30 p.m., followed by
Roanoke-Benson vs. the winner between St. Bede and PC. The quarterfinals on Tuesday, Jan. 28, match Woodland vs. Marquette at 5:30 p.m. and Dwight vs. Lowpoint-Washburn at 7 p.m.
The semifinals will be Wednesday, Jan. 29, with the finals set for Friday, Jan. 31.
AREA ROUNDUP
Bouxsen, Spratt lead Putnam County Lady Panthers past Newark
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Putnam County 71, Newark 30: The Lady Panthers rode the 1-2 punch of Eme Bouxsein (25 points) and Maggie Spratt (23) to a nonconference victory Tuesday, Jan. 14, at RM Germano Gymnasium in Granville.
Veronika Mack added nine points for PC.
Midland 59, Putnam County 43: Addy Leatherman scored 18 points for the Lady Panthers in a Tri-County Conference game on Monday, Jan. 13, in Varna.
Eme Bouxsein had 13 points for PC, while Maggie Spratt contributed 12 points.
Roanoke-Benson 52, Putnam County 29: The Lady Panthers lost on the road in Tri-County Conference action Thursday, Jan. 16, at Roanoke.
Photo provided by Putnam County High School
The Putnam County girls basketball team honored faculty and staff members before the Jan. 14 home game as part of Faculty and Staff Appreciation Night.
Photo provided
The La Salle-Peru swim co-op placed third in the Peoria Manual Ram Relays on Jan. 11. Putnam County’s Beckham Baker is a member of the La Salle-Peru co-op team.
Photo provided
Putnam County fourth grader Brynley Bush has advanced to the Elks Hoop Shoot state finals.
CLASSIFIED
PUBLISHE R'S NOTICE
All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subjec t to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to adver tise “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.
IN THE CIRCU IT C OURT OF THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCU IT PU TNAM C OUNT Y, ILLI NO IS US BAN K TRUST NATION AL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDU AL CA PA CITY BUT SO LE LY AS OWNE R TRUSTE E FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs JOHN D. GR AY AKA JOHN DAVIS GR AY; LO RI A. GR AY AKA LORI A NNE GRAY; STATE OF ILLINOIS DE PA RTME NT OF RE VE NU E; UNK NO WN OW NE RS AND NO NRE CO RD CLAIMANTS, Defendant(s).
CAS E NO. 202 3F C6
Property Address: 219 S. 4th St Hennepin, IL 61327
NOTICE O F SHERIFF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE
LE GAL PU BLICATIO N Notice to Bid
The County of Putnam is now Accepting Bids for Cash renting 4.25 acres of farmland located west of the Putnam County Office of Em ergency Managem ent building. The bid is on a per- acre basis. The minimum bid is $175.00 per acre The winning bidder will be required to sign a one- year lease with three additional one-year options. 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, February 07, 2025 The County of Putnam reserves the right to reject any or all bids submitted.
CHAR LE S LE NKAITIS
Putnam County Board Chairman
IN THE CIRCU IT C OURT OF THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCU IT PU TNAM C OUNT Y, ILLI NO IS US BAN K TRUST NATION AL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDU AL CA PA CITY BUT SO LE LY AS OWNE R TRUSTE E FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs JOHN D. GR AY AKA JOHN DAVIS GR AY; LO RI A. GR AY AKA LORI A NNE GRAY; STATE OF ILLINOIS DE PA RTME NT OF RE VE NU E; UNK NO WN OW NE RS AND NO NRE CO RD CLAIMANTS, Defendant(s). CAS E NO. 202 3F C6
Property Address:
219 S. 4th St. Hennepin, IL 61327 NOTICE O F SHERIFF SALE
The toll-free telephone numbe r for the he aring impaired is 800-927-9275
Public notice is hereby given that in pursuance of a judgment of said Court entered in the above- entitled cause on November 7, 2024, I, Sheriff Josh Boedigheim er of Putnam County, Illinois, will hold a sale on February 13, 2025, commencing at 9:00 AM, at the Putnam County Courthouse, 120 N. Fourth St., Hennepin, IL 61327, to sell to the highest bidder or bidders the following described real estate, or so much thereof as may be sufficient to satisfy said decree, to wit: Commonly known as:
219 S. 4th St. , Hennepin, IL 61327
P.I.N.: 01-00- 043- 170 First Lien Position; Single-Family Residence; Judgment Am ount $70,484.02
IN ACCORD AN CE WITH 735 ILCS 5/151507(c)(1)(H -1) AND (H-2), 765 ILCS 605/9 (G)(5), AN D 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1), YOU AR E H ERE BY NO TIFIED THAT THE PU RC HA SE R OF THE PROPERTY OTHER TH AN A MORTGAGEE, SHALL PA Y TH E ASSESSMENTS AND LEGAL FEES RE QU IRED BY SUBSEC TIONS (g)(1) AN D (g)(4) OF SE CTION 9 AND THE ASSESSMENTS AND CO URT CO STS RE QU IRED BY SUBSECTION (g-1) OF SE CTION 18.5 OF THE ILLINOIS CO NDO MINIUM PROPERTY ACT
Terms of Sale: CASH - 10% down at the time of sale and the balance due within 24 hours of the sale All paym ents for the amount bid shall be in certified funds payable to the Sheriff of Putnam County.
The person to contact for information regarding this property is:
Sales Department at Diaz Anselm o & Associates, LLC, 1771 West Diehl Road, Suite 120, Naperville, IL 60563, (630) 453- 6960. For bidding instructions, visit w ww.dallegal. com 24 hours prior to sale
This communication is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.
Diaz Anselmo & Associates, LLC 1771 West Diehl Road, Suite 120 Naperville, IL 60563
(630) 453-6960
midwestpleadings@dallegal.com
January 8, 15, 22, 2 025 Putnam County Record 949 20 7
(Published in Putnam County Record January 22, 2025) 2219354
Public notice is hereby given that in pursuance of a judgment of said Court entered in the above- entitled cause on November 7, 2024, I, Sheriff Josh Boedigheim er of Putnam County, Illinois, will hold a sale on February 13, 2025, commencing at 9:00 AM, at the Putnam County Courthouse, 120 N. Fourth St., Hennepin, IL 61327, to sell to the highest bidder or bidders the following described real estate, or so much thereof as may be sufficient to satisfy said decree, to wit: LOT 5 IN BLOCK 24 IN THE VILLAG E OF HE NNE PIN, SITUATED IN PUTNAM CO UNTY, ILLINO IS Commonly known as: 219 S. 4th St. , Hennepin, IL 61327
P.I.N.: 01-00- 043- 170 First Lien Position; Single-Family Residence; Judgment Am ount $70,484.02 IN ACCORD AN CE WITH 735 ILCS 5/151507(c)(1)(H -1) AND (H-2), 765 ILCS 605/9 (G)(5), AN D 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1), YOU AR E H ERE BY NO TIFIED THAT THE PU RC HA SE R OF THE PROPERTY OTHER TH AN A MORTGAGEE, SHALL PA Y TH E ASSESSMENTS AND LEGAL FEES RE QU IRED BY SUBSEC TIONS (g)(1) AN D (g)(4) OF SE CTION 9 AND THE ASSESSMENTS AND CO URT CO STS RE QU IRED BY SUBSECTION (g-1) OF SE CTION 18.5 OF THE ILLINOIS CO NDO MINIUM PROPERTY ACT.
Terms of Sale: CASH - 10% down at the time of sale and the balance due within 24 hours of the sale All paym ents for the amount bid shall be in certified funds payable to the Sheriff of Putnam County
The person to contact for information regarding this property is: Sales Department at Diaz Anselm o & Associates, LLC, 1771 West Diehl Road, Suite 120, Naperville, IL 60563, (630) 453- 6960. For bidding instructions, visit w ww.dallegal. com 24 hours prior to sale
This communication is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.
Diaz Anselmo & Associates, LLC 1771 West Diehl Road, Suite 120 Naperville, IL 60563 (630) 453-6960 midwestpleadings@dallegal.com 8144- 949207
January 8, 15, 22, 2 025 Putnam Count y Record 949 20 7
