NEWS
New jewelry store
Couple opens Brooks Jewelers in downtown Oregon / 3
NEWS
‘48 Hours’ episode
Melissa Lamesch murder to be topic of TV show episode this month / 5
Crime and courts
Rockford man gets nine years in prison on weapon charge / 6
SEASON ENDS FOR MARCOS
William “Terry” Messer, Robert “RJ” James Pickel, Page 10
Earleen Hinton
Polo’s Noah Dewey (right) fights off Milledgeville’s Spencer Nye during their I8FA state semifinal playoff game Nov. 16 at Milledgeville. The Marcos fell to the Missiles 28-14, ending their season with an 11-1 record. Story on page 13.
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The TRI-COUNTY PRESS (USPS No. 638-530) is published weekly by B.F. Shaw Printing Co., Shaw Media. Periodical postage paid at Polo, Illinois. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Shaw Media, P.O. Box 598, Sterling, IL 61081
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Name: Gage James Zeigler
Age: 17
Parents: Mark and Alissa
Siblings: Bekah and Coley
Favorite class: AP Chemistry
Favorite teacher: Toss-up between Mr. Bargar and Mr. Alston
School activities in which you participate: Football, basketball, baseball, Spanish Club, FCCLA, FFA, Student Council, National Honor Society, B.L.I.N.D.
What will you do after high school? Go to a four-year college. Haven’t decided my major.
What is something you learned in high school that you think you’ll never use?
Calculus
If you could create any new class at your school, what would it be? Basic Life Skills
101
What does it take to be a successful high school student? Do your homework, pay attention in class and be nice to your classmates.
Do you have a job? Yes, I operate Triple G Lawn Care and work as a lifeguard during the summers.
How would you describe your group of friends? Fun, funny, chill.
What do you do in your free time? Mow lawns, hang out with friends and get food. What kind of music are you listening to?
Rock and rap
If you could go anywhere in the world for free, where would it be? Hawaii
What is your favorite childhood memory? Winning third grade class president
Do you have any pets? Yes, two cats, Peppermint and Midnight, and one dog Remy. What is the best way to cheer you up?
Ice cream or Remy
What is your life’s philosophy? When you give joy to other people, you get more joy in return.
What would you do if you received $1 billion all of a sudden? Buy a nice lakehouse and start a foundation that builds recreation centers in rural areas. Is there anything else you want people to know about you? I don’t like Calculus.
Favorites
Number: 34
Movie: “Bruce Almighty”
TV Show: “The Office” Color: Blue Food: Sushi Song: “Country Roads”
What class do you find really engaging and why? Please add details, including but not limited to teachers (using full
Cub Scouts decorate Christmas tree to raise funds
CORRECTIONS
Members of Polo Cub Scout Pack 337 on Nov. 17 decorated a 4-foot Christmas tree to help raise money for Rock River Hospice & Home during the 2024 Festival of Trees at the Northland Mall in Sterling. The trees are located by Dunham’s Sports. Patrons can vote on their favorite tree by inserting cash into a bucket by the tree. Voting runs through Nov. 24.
Accuracy is important to the Polo Tri-County Press. Please call errors to our attention by email at news@oglecountynews.com.
name), classmates, material or interesting projects.
I find AP Chemistry really engaging and interesting because it’s going in more depth into the same concepts we learned in Chemistry 1. Mrs. Cole keeps the class at a steady pace, but slows down if we need more explanation or get confused which helps a lot. I would recommend it for anyone who enjoyed Chemistry 1.
What are your career and post-graduation plans? What school(s) or other instruction, travel or endeavors do you have planned? After high school, I plan on attending a four-year college, most likely at the University of Alabama, but that could change. During the summers, I plan on maintaining Triple G Lawn Care.
What are your two favorite extracurricular, volunteer or community activities you participate in? Explain why for each and what you’ve learned or gained from being involved. Besides sports, the two extracurricular activities I’m involved in the most are Boy Scouts and B.L.I.N.D. In Boy Scouts, I’ve learned all sorts of things such as knots, fire building, winter camping and scuba diving. B.L.I.N.D. has really helped me get out of my comfort zone and talk to other people from different schools and backgrounds. Please share a moment, group event or activity at school that was meaningful or memorable. I really enjoyed field day last year. I was a leader and it was fun meeting all the kids and playing games with them.
What is your hope for the future? After college, I hope to find a solid job and settle down somewhere in the Midwest. I hope to get married at some point and have a few kids.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEF
Donate food and maybe win a ride with Santa on a fire truck
POLO – The Polo Christmas Festival is seeking donations of food as part of its Santa’s Helpers Food Drive that continues through Nov. 30 at the Polo Public Library.
For each nonperishable item a child donates, the child will receive one entry into a drawing to win a ride with Santa on a fire truck. For example, three items equals three chances to win.
The lucky winner – along with two guests – will get to ride on a fire truck with Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Polo Christmas Festival’s Lighted Parade at 6:45 p.m., Dec. 7.
The winner will be contacted Dec. 1.
– Shaw Local News Network
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Photo provided by Natalie Blum
Polo High School Students of the Month receive a $100 scholarship from the Polo Schools Foundation. Foundation member Alissa Zeigler presents Gage James Zeigler with his award.
Photo provided by Jeff Short
Brooks Jewelers opens for business in downtown
City’s history books show last jewelers in Oregon were in the 1940s
By ALEXA ZOELLNER azoellner@shawmedia.com
OREGON – For the first time in decades, Oregon has a jewelry store.
Brooks Jewelers opened in early September at 113 N. Fourth St. in Oregon. Along with selling jewelry, the store offers jewelry repair, cleanings and inspections, appraisals, engravings and custom jewelry.
“You can’t account for everyone’s taste, so I kind of lined my showcases with staples,” owner Jen Brooks said. “I tell people, ‘If you don’t see what you like, we can either order it for you or make it for you. It’s not a problem. We can do anything here.’ ”
Most of the pieces – which range in price from $35 to $4,000 – in the showcases are ones she made, Brooks said.
Behind the showroom is a workshop where Brooks can do everything from cleaning to the creation of custom pieces. Because she does everything in-house, her turnover time usually is a day or two, Brooks said.
She attended Gem City College, an accredited trade school in Quincy, and has 22 years of experience as a jeweler.
“There really is no repair that’s too big or too small,” she said. “Before I left the business I was with, I set a $276,000 diamond. I can go way highend or low-end.”
Brooks said she loves what she does and wants to share that with the community because jewelry is about more than metal and rocks.
“The whole emotional aspect tied to jewelry is fascinating and it spans the entire human existence,” she said. “We’ve always adorned ourselves and I think that’s fascinating. What people choose and why they choose it, that’s just so cool. And you can do that with anything.”
Brooks and her husband, Nick Brooks, who co-owns the store and handles much of the business side, selected the downtown Oregon building with the help of the Oregon Area Chamber of Commerce.
“It’s a beautiful little space,” she said. “It’s everything we could possibly want here. The people are amazing. I just love it.”
Another thing that drove her to select Oregon was the city long had been without a jeweler, Brooks said.
Oregon Mayor Ken Williams said in reviewing history books that the
last time a jeweler was in the city was in the 1940s. Williams said he knows there hasn’t been one since he moved to Oregon in 2005, and while there might have been a jewelry store between the 1940s and 2005, Williams said he’s not aware of it.
It’s wonderful to have one in town again, he said.
“It’s provided two outlets – both sale and repair,” Williams said. “We needed that and we always work very hard to get retail operations in. It means something for our citizens.”
Williams said he and his wife were early customers of Brooks Jewelers. His wife had her wedding and engagement rings combined and resized, Williams said, and he had his military officer’s sword engraved.
The response from area residents has been overwhelmingly positive, Brooks said.
“It’s really awesome here,” she said. “I love our neighbors.”
Brooks Jewelers is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. More information can be found at BrooksJewelers.net, by calling 815-732-2374 or emailing info@brooksjewelers.net. The store also can be found on Facebook.
Jen and Nick Brooks pose for a photo Nov. 2 inside Brooks Jewelers in downtown Oregon.
ABOVE: Jen Brooks, owner of Brooks Jewelers, polishes a ring Nov. 2 in the Oregon business. LEFT: Brooks shows off a sterling silver bracelet with lab-created diamonds and a bolo-style clasp that she made. Brooks Jewelers is located in downtown Oregon.
Photos by Alexa Zoellner
Legend of Santa Claus started hundreds of years ago
Shortly after Halloween I backed out my car to go to church and there down the block to the west was the most marvelous Santa I have ever seen. He is inflatable and must be 15 feet tall. I love him! I have seen on TV the tall snowmen but I have not seen Santa on TV.
I love walking to my window any time of day and there he is as big as life promoting Christmas. He is never flat on the ground but always seems to be full of air and ready to welcome Christmas.
I always have been partial to Santa and I have through the years collected any Santa I could find when I was out and about. That probably is the result of not celebrating Santa as I grew up. As a child, we did not have stockings hung by the chimney with care or
POLO HISTORY
Betty Obendorf
looked for Santa to come on Christmas Eve. We simply did not do Santa. We did the Easter bunny.
I can remember as a little kid getting up on Easter morning and having Easter baskets full of Easter stuff. It was like the Easter bunny came overnight and there was this basket full of candy and other things. I do not know why the Easter bunny had precedent over Santa but that is the way it was.
We did celebrate Christmas and gave each other gifts but nothing came from Santa on Christmas morn-
ing. I never quizzed my parents on why Santa did not come to our house on Christmas Eve like other kids. It just did not seem important.
The legend of Santa Claus started hundreds of years ago and he was called St. Nicholas. He made his first appearance in the U.S. in New York in December of 1773 or 1774. When Clement Clarke Moore wrote “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (also known as “’Twas The Night Before Christmas”) in 1822, that was the beginning of Santa in the U.S. in a big way. I have some very old editions of this well-loved poem usually read at Christmastime. I love the pictures in the earlier books.
My oldest version was published by David Caleb Cook, who started his publishing company in 1875. That publishing company still is going on
today and they print a lot of Sunday School material. My next one was published in 1908. There are a couple that were made in the 1930s. Some of them are worth a bit of money and I probably should not have them sitting in the wicker chair where my cat sleeps at times. I love putting out the vintage Santa Claus on my tree or in various places around the house. When I see a Santa out somewhere, I am a pushover even though my house is full of them. So this year, I love to go to my window, look down the street and enjoy the 15-foot Santa any time through the day.
• Betty Obendorf is a retired teacher and volunteer for the Polo Historical Society.
Purington pavers were used to construct early roads
The installation of brick streets and roads paved the way for automobiles as streets no longer were muddy in the rainy and winter season and dusty in the dry summertime.
While I was teaching at Dixon High School they were removing the pavers and replacing them with asphalt and concrete streets. These historic Purington Bricks went out of production in the late 1940s.
The city of Dixon dumped the Purington pavers that were removed from the streets in the city dump. Each evening I loaded these pavers in my pickup truck and piled them on the lot by our home near the Daysvile Cemetery. Today, many of these pavers are located on the south side of
OGLE COUNTY HISTORY
Otto Dick
the Oregon Depot by the recently acquired Zephyr car.
The paver brick company was founded in 1849 when German stonemason Henry Grosscup bought 90 acres from Knox College in East Galesburg, according to historicalbricks.com. Grosscup paid for the land with his first production of bricks, which were used to construct Whiting Hall and Old Main on the Knox College campus.
D.V. Purington and W.S. Purington bought the land around 1890 and established the Purington Pavers Brick Co. Other brick companies established themselves in the area, manufacturing soft bricks that were used for building construction. The Puringtons set themselves apart by manufacturing heavy, solid bricks that were in demand for paving streets. Their bricks were in demand in urban areas around the world.
The first brickyard built by the Puringtons contained 13 kilns for firing their pavers. Yard No. 2 contained 22 kilns and eventually the plant had four yards, employing 800 workers producing more than 150,000 bricks a day.
The pavers each weighed 9 pounds.
The blue shale and yellow soil in the Galesburg area was ideal for constructing the hard pavers. The shale was scooped from nearby pits, crushed, dampened and pressed into molds about an inch larger that the final product. The bricks were fired producing a chemical reaction that caused the brick to become extremely hard and durable.
In the Oregon area today are Purington bricks at the Oregon Depot, the parking area in front of Conover Square and the historic area on Brick Road leading to Paynes Point.
• Otto Dick is a retired teacher and has researched Ogle County history for several years.
Oregon Rotary Club Foundation announces scholarship winners
By HOLLIE J. GUIST JR. Oregon Rotary Club Foundation president
The Oregon Rotary Club Foundation awarded scholarships to six college students this year.
Faith Marquardt, Isaac Brooks, Owen Ketter, Elizabeth Heimer, Grant Cermak and Lydia Cermak were the applicants that the board agreed best represented the ideals of Rotary International this year. Marquardt was the recipient of the Helen and Andrew Cirksena scholarship.
The annual Oregon Rotary Club Foundation scholarship program began in 1984, thanks to the Cirksena
family’s generous donation. The club awarded a $500 college scholarship that year. Foundation members nurtured the scholarship program. In 2014, the program expanded to include graduating high school seniors after a generous donation from Catherine Ehnen.
Over the years the program has awarded more than $450,000 to more than 200 students who best manifested the ideals of Rotary International.
The yearly decision process is a difficult yet rewarding experience because of the large number of outstanding applicants who apply each year. The Oregon community should
be very proud of these individuals who are not only excellent students but participate in activities geared toward helping others.
The Oregon Rotary Club Foundation appreciates the many applicants for the scholarship program. The district is fortunate to have so many scholars of distinction. Board members would like to thank all the students for taking the time to apply and for sharing their talents and leadership in the community.
The hope is these financial awards will help the students pursue their college education and enable them to continue to support the community. A separate scholarship opportunity
will be available to graduating Oregon High School seniors in the spring.
Rotary’s mission always has been to provide community service, both locally and internationally. Becoming a Rotarian provides the opportunity to do something for someone else and to experience the highly rewarding self-fulfillment that comes with the process.
Oregon Rotary Club always is looking for new members.
For more information or to apply for membership, visit https://portal. clubrunner.ca/5761 or email Rotary Club President Kathy Groenhagen at kathyg@serenityhospiceandhome. org.
Rochelle man killed in accident on Route 251
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – A Rochelle man was killed Saturday in a three-car accident on Illinois Route 251, south of Holcomb Road, the Ogle County Sheriff’s Department said in a news release.
“At approximately 11:04 p.m., Ogle
County dispatchers received an automated crash detection alert indicating a possible vehicle crash in the 2000 block of North Illinois Route 251,” according to the release. “Deputies further learned a three-vehicle crash had occurred involving a southbound Nissan Maxima, a northbound Subaru Outback and a northbound Nissan Frontier.”
The driver and sole occupant of the Nissan Maxima was identified as Edgar Mandujano-Lopez, 19, of Rochelle, who was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the release.
The driver and sole occupant of the Subaru Outback was identified as David Ramos, 32, of Byron, who was taken to Mercy Riverside Hospital by Lynn-Scott-Rock EMS for treatment
of suspected non-life-threatening injuries.
“The driver of the Nissan Frontier fled the scene,” according to the release.
The accident remains under investigation, according to the release.
Deputies were assisted by the Illinois State Police, REACT helicopter and Rochelle Fire/EMS.
‘48 Hours’ episode on Lamesch murder to air this month
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – The 2020 murder of a Mt. Morris woman will be the topic of a “48 Hours” episode with a scheduled air date of Saturday, Nov. 30.
The episode will be about Matthew Plote, 37, who was found guilty of killing Melissa Lamesch, 27, on Nov. 25, 2020, just one day before Thanksgiving and two days before their baby was to be born.
Jurors deliberated for two hours March 22 before finding Plote guilty of four counts of first-degree murder, three counts of intentional homicide of an unborn child and one count each of residential arson, aggravated domestic battery and concealment of a homicidal death.
Calling it a “brutal crime,” Judge John “Ben” Roe sentenced Plote on June 27 to life in prison after hearing victim impact statements from Lamesch’s mother, father and sister, as well as arguments from attorneys.
Roe said he considered all arguments and evidence and, in addition to the life sentence, sentenced Plote to 60 years in prison for the death of the baby and 15 years in prison for setting the Lamesch home on fire in an attempt to conceal the deaths. The sentences will be served concurrently.
Lamesch was found laying on her kitchen floor not breathing and covered with soot and debris when Mt. Morris firefighters forced their way into her home on South Hannah Avenue about 4:30 p.m. Nov. 25, 2020.
When she was dragged from the burning home and placed into an ambulance, there was no electrical activity in her heart, and she was pronounced dead at 4:54 p.m., firefighters testified.
During the trial, detectives accused Plote, a Carol Stream paramedic, of strangling Lamesch because he didn’t
want the birth of his son to interfere with his “carefree playboy lifestyle.”
In an initial police interview Nov. 25, 2020, Plote told detectives that Lamesch had wanted him to be involved with the baby. Plote added that he initially “wasn’t on board” but went to her home to “work things out.”
Plote told police that he stayed “about an hour” at Lamesch’s home and they talked at the kitchen table before moving to the couch to have what he described as consensual sex. He said he then left the home by walking out the front door.
Plote chose not to take the stand during the jury trial.
Cassie Baal, Lamesch’s older sister, told jurors that she was on the phone with her sister when Plote appeared at the family’s childhood home the day she died.
“She said she would make the conversation quick and would call me right back,” Baal testified.
Prosecutors argued that Lamesch never called Baal back because Plote had killed her and then set the home on fire.
Ogle County Assistant State’s Attorney Heather Kruse argued that Plote
intentionally put an entire neighborhood at risk when he set the home on fire after killing Lamesch. She said the crimes were especially “sick” because Plote had been employed in a profession that was supposed to help people.
She argued for a life sentence and said evidence at the trial indicated that Lamesch had died while fighting for her life and her baby’s life.
A forensic scientist with the Illinois State Police Forensic Lab in Rockford testified that Plote’s DNA was found in fingernail scrapings taken from Lamesch’s right and left hands. He also said semen found in Lamesch’s vagina fit Plote’s profile, as did cheek swabs taken from the dead baby.
Forensic pathologists Dr. Mark Peters and Dr. Amanda Youmans told jurors that Lamesch was strangled before firefighters recovered her from her burning home.
They testified that abrasions on Lamesch’s face and scalp and bruises on her legs and thighs all occurred before she died, and no elevated levels of carbon monoxide were found in Lamesch’s blood. Her “full-term male fetus” had no abnormalities. Lamesch also had minimal thermal wounds,
they testified.
Youmans said Lamesch’s neck, face, eyes and larynx all showed signs of strangulation. Hemorrhages in the muscles in her neck also were caused by pressure being applied to that area, and when she cleaned soot and debris from Lamesch’s body, she discovered more injuries that she said were consistent with “blunt force.”
Those injuries, Youmans said, were found on Lamesch’s forehead, head and temple and were consistent with “multiple blows to her head.” She said her injuries were consistent with “fighting back.”
Defense attorney Liam Dixon argued at Plote’s sentencing that his client had spent his entire career helping people as a paramedic and also had been an Eagle Scout. He asked the court to consider Plote’s “zero criminal history” before rendering a decision.
When asked by Roe if he wanted to make a statement before the sentence was given, Plote softly said, “I share the pain and loss of Melissa and Barrett.”
Lamesch was a 2011 graduate of Oregon High School and an emergency medical technician at Trace Ambulance Service in Tinley Park. She moved back into the family home in October 2020 and was scheduled to have her labor induced Nov. 27, 2020.
Crews from the CBS series filmed in Oregon and the Ogle County Judicial Center earlier this year. The newsmagazine, which focuses on crime and courts, is expected to air the episode about Lamesch at 9 p.m. on CBS stations after an 8 p.m. episode of “48 Hours.”
The show then will be available on the CBS website and Paramount+, Emily Wichick Hourihane, “48 Hours” field producer, said in an email.
Plote is an inmate in the Illinois Department of Corrections at the Menard Correctional Center in Menard, Illinois, south of St. Louis, 337 miles south of Oregon. Court documents show he is in the process of appealing the sentence and guilty verdicts to the Illinois Appellate Court. He is indigent and has been appointed an appellate defender for the appeal process.
Melissa Lamesch
Earleen Hinton
A “48 Hours” crew films Deanne Lamesch, the mother of Melissa Lamesch, and her friends after a sentencing hearing for Matthew Plote on June 27 at the Ogle County Judicial Center in Oregon. Plote, 37, of Malta was sentenced to life in prison for the 2020 murder of Melissa, 27, of Mt. Morris and her unborn baby boy.
Man gets 9 years in prison on weapon charge
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – A Rockford man has been sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to possessing a weapon as a felon.
Jesse Alar, 37, pleaded guilty Nov. 7 to unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon. Judge John “Ben” Roe sentenced Alar to nine years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.
The charge followed a March 8 incident on Interstate 39 near the Baxter Road exit in northeastern
Ogle County.
“On March 8, the Illinois State Police responded to a complaint about a driver who pointed a handgun at a victim on Interstate 39 in Ogle County,”
Ogle County
Jesse Alar
State’s Attorney Mike Rock said Nov. 15 in a news release. “The trooper located the suspect vehicle near the Baxter Road exit on Interstate 39 and
Rockford man charged with possessing stolen vehicle after police chase through Oregon
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – A Rockford man waived his right to a preliminary hearing Nov. 13 as he appeared in court for possessing a stolen vehicle after a chase through Oregon on Nov. 3.
advised that he wanted to “pursue charges and did not give anyone consent to be in control of or drive his vehicle.”
the defendant was identified as the suspect.”
Rock said police located a Taurus handgun inside the defendant’s vehicle during the investigation.
Alar had previous felony convictions in Winnebago County, Rock said.
Unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon is a Class 2 felony with a sentencing range of three to 14 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections followed by 12 months of mandatory supervised release.
An arrest warrant was issued
March 27 for Alar after he failed to appear in court on a felony charge of being an armed habitual criminal and misdemeanor charges of driving while under the influence of alcohol and aggravated assault.
Alar was charged March 26 with the Class X felony of being an armed habitual criminal. In that charge, Alar was accused of knowingly possessing the handgun after being convicted of the Class X felony of unlawful use of a weapon as a felon in Winnebago County in 2017 under the Illinois Controlled Substances Act.
Court date set for man accused of sexual assault of Polo woman in 2022
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
Timothy P. Valdivia, 32, told Ogle County Judge Anthony Peska that he was representing himself and wanted to waive his right to the hearing in which a judge hears evidence from prosecutors and determines whether enough probable cause exists to proceed with criminal charges.
“Are you representing yourself,” Peska asked.
“Yes, sir,” Valdivia replied as he appeared in court wearing handcuffs, shackles and an orange jumpsuit issued to Ogle County jail inmates.
Valdivia is accused of possessing a 2018 Toyota truck, owned by a Lacrosse, Wisconsin, man. Valdivia was apprehended in the truck Nov. 4 after an Oregon police officer was dispatched to 313 S. Second St. for a violation of an order of protection.
According to court documents, Valdivia was found inside the truck at 5:07 p.m. as it was parked in front of the apartment building at that address.
Oregon patrol officer Terry Lester said he found Valdivia sitting in the driver’s seat of the truck with the engine running. Lester said when he called the truck’s owner, the man
In addition to the felony charge of possession of a stolen vehicle, Valdivia also is charged with a misdemeanor for violating an order of protection. In that charge he is accused of violating the order of protection because he was within 300 feet of the address. The order of protection was issued Oct. 11 by a woman who is a resident in the building.
Lester said she told police she saw Valdivia sitting in the truck outside her residence. Lester said Valdivia told him he “wanted to see his daughter before he went to jail.”
Police said Valdivia was the driver of the vehicle they chased through town Nov. 3 after it was seen traveling 66 mph in a 40-mph zone eastbound on East Washington Street, which also is Illinois 64.
When the officer attempted to stop the vehicle in the 1200 block of South Blackhawk Road, just east of the city limits, the driver failed to stop and continued, Oregon Police Chief Matt Kalnins said in a Nov. 4 news release.
“The vehicle proceeded westbound back through Oregon, where deputies from the Ogle County Sheriff’s Department joined the efforts to stop it,” Kalnins said in the release. “The vehicle continued to evade law enforcement, eventually traveling down South Fourth Street [Illinois 2] before the driver abandoned the vehicle near Collins Street close to the railroad tracks.”
OREGON – A January court date has been scheduled to determine whether a trial date will be needed for a Markham man accused of sexually assaulting a 17-year-old girl in Polo in December 2022.
Armon D. Pearson, 24, appeared in front of Judge Anthony Peska on Nov. 13 with his attorney Brian Erwin appearing via video.
“We are still going over information,” Erwin said in asking for the continuance. “We should have either a disposition or we’ll want a trial date.”
Peska set the next court date for 1 p.m. Jan. 8. Assistant State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten did not object to the continuance.
Pearson is charged with criminal sexual assault of a girl in Polo on Dec. 13, 2022. He pleaded not guilty Feb. 14 and has requested a jury trial.
An arrest warrant first was issued in July 2023 – when the charge was filed –and Pearson’s bond was set at $150,000, meaning he would have to post 10%, or $15,000, to be released.
He was arrested Dec. 22, 2023, and appeared in court Dec. 26 and again Dec. 27 while in custody at the Ogle County jail.
As part of the state’s SAFE-T Act, Pearson asked to be released from custody without bond as his case proceeds
through the court system. The law allows defendants to be released on a no-cash bond, but a judge still decides whether a defendant is a flight risk or poses too much of a threat to one person or the community to allow release.
At a Dec. 27, 2023, detention hearing, Leisten argued that Pearson should not be released from custody because criminal sexual assault qualifies as a “detainable offense.”
Leisten said police reports indicated the assault took place on the south end of Polo about 10:50 p.m. at or near the Village Inn Motel. He said the victim told police that Pearson put his hand over her mouth and said he “would kill her” if she made noise. Leisten said she told police that she was raped twice.
Leisten also told the court that the girl was taken to KSB for sexual assault testing, with those results being sent to the Illinois State Police crime lab. Motel records indicate Pearson had registered for a room for one night Dec. 13, 2022, Leisten said.
When questioned by Chicago police, Leisten said Pearson denied knowing the girl or having been in or knowing of Polo or Ogle County. Pearson also told Chicago investigators that he had been texting with a Polo girl on the internet with the dating app Plenty of Fish, Leisten said. He said Pearson told police that he thought he had “hooked up” with her and acknowledged they had sex.
Judge John Redington, now retired, agreed earlier this year to release Pearson with the conditions that he not have any contact with the alleged victim. He also told Pearson he could not be within the city limits of Polo “under any circumstances” while the case is pending.
Armon Pearson
Timothy P. Valdivia
Trustees accept bid to demolish 1 N. Wesley Ave.
Property was one of 2 buildings destroyed in April 16 fire; village doesn’t own the other property
By ALEXA ZOELLNER azoellner@shawmedia.com
MT. MORRIS – The Mt. Morris Village Board on Nov. 12 selected a company to demolish the second downtown building destroyed in a fire six months ago.
Board members unanimously voted to accept a $12,845 bid from R.E. Wolber & Sons Excavating of Mt. Morris to demolish and clean up 1 N. Wesley Ave.
“To me, it’s a no-brainer, Wolber being half the price of everyone else,”
OREGON
Public Property and Ordinance Trustee Mike Fay said.
Village Board members considered two other bids for the project. One was from Steve Benesh & Sons of Oregon for $22,670 and the other was from Mulroy Demolition & Excavation LLC of Lincolnwood for $23,000.
Both 1 N. Wesley Ave. and 3 N. Wesley Ave. – the latter of which housed Sharky’s Sports Bar – were total losses after an April 16 fire.
On Oct. 28, the village bought 1 N. Wesley Ave. for $1,000 from Brock and Heather Swanlund, according to Ogle County property tax records. The village did not buy 3 N. Wesley Ave. Double Duce Corp., in the care of Michael Rossi, is listed as the owner of
3 N. Wesley Ave., according to property tax records.
Sharky’s Sports Bar, 3 N. Wesley Ave. is owned by Pamela Rossi, according to Ogle County court documents.
Demolition of 3 N. Wesley Ave. started Oct. 21.
“One of the things we need to be careful of is making sure that, given the village’s current relationship with the neighbor, we want to make sure the demo activities are limited to 1 N. Wesley,” Village Attorney Rob LeSage told Village Board members. “Whoever does the demolition work needs to be instructed and encouraged to follow those [property] lines.”
The village likely will have the property surveyed and the property
lines of 1 N. Wesley Ave. clearly marked for contractors before demolition starts, Village President Phil Labash said.
At 1:33 p.m. April 16, the Mt. Morris Fire Protection District was alerted to flames coming from an apartment in the building at 1 N. Wesley Ave. The fire quickly spread to Sharky’s Sports Bar because of strong winds and the absence of a firewall separating the two structures. The fire was extinguished by 5 p.m., with most mutual-aid companies released by 7 p.m.
The fire’s cause was ruled undetermined, said JC Fultz, public information officer for the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office. The case is closed on their end, he said.
Commissioners agree to oppose proposed solar farm just outside city limits
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – Oregon city officials agreed Nov. 12 to officially oppose a proposed solar farm, advocating for a more “appropriate” use for property near the west bank of the scenic Rock River.
Pivot Energy of Denver has indicated it is considering constructing a “small solar farm” at 1209 S. Second St., south of the city limits on the east side of Illinois 2, north of County Farm Road.
The 73-acre site is zoned light industrial by Ogle County. Most of its acreage is being used for agricultural purposes and corn was planted this season. A house is located on just over one-half acre of the property. The property is bordered on the north by F.N. Smith Manufacturing and on the south by County Farm Road. A portion of the property is a few yards west of the river.
The entire parcel falls under the jurisdiction of Ogle County and is not within Oregon’s city limits.
Oregon Mayor Ken Williams said the city has a right to comment on the project because the property and proposed project is within 1½ miles of Oregon.
IT’S YOUR WRITE
Issue taken with mayor’s stance regarding proposed solar farm To the Editor,
This is regarding Oregon Mayor Ken Williams’ opposition to the proposed
“Oregon is not against solar farms,” Williams said. “Just not necessarily on a riverfront.”
In October 2022, the City Council approved a solar farm west of the Century Hill subdivision on the west side of the city. That project was followed by an annexation agreement with USS Ducks Solar, a subsidiary of Midwest-based US Solar, to annex a 70.64acre parcel into the city.
Williams said the Pivot Energy project should not be placed along the riverfront.
“One hundred years ago, cities placed industries along the riverfront. That was a mistake,” Williams said. “We have learned now that there are more suitable uses.”
Williams said although Pivot Energy had not yet applied for a special use permit from Ogle County to construct the project, he urged commissioners to draft a resolution against the project as soon as possible.
“I want to have something in place. I’d like to bring something forward saying we are not for it,” Williams told the commissioners.
City Manager Darin DeHaan said approval of the project would take some time, including licensing requirements.
“There are still a lot of hurdles ... but it sounds like they will file soon,”
solar farm south of Oregon.
First of all, I have no financial interest in this farm. Williams has used multiple media outlets to voice his opinion of the solar farm destroying
DeHaan said.
Williams told the council that riverfront property is “highly desirable” and the city’s comprehensive plan forecasts that acreage as a potential for future housing development.
“I am not sure we can do anything,” Commissioner Tim Krug said.
“We need to try and do something,” Williams replied.
Council members agreed to have City Attorney Paul Chadwick draft a resolution against the proposed project.
Before an Oct. 23 informational meeting on the project presented by Pivot Energy, Williams outlined his concerns in a written statement.
“There are more suitable locations for industrial zones that do not conflict with critical ecosystems or community interests,” he said. “Our comprehensive plan has that parcel designated as residential. Riverfront residential properties can boost local economies through increased property values and tax revenues. They attract businesses that cater to residents such as cafes, shops and services, fostering a thriving local economy while drawing visitors and tourists.
“Riverfronts naturally offer stunning views and scenic landscapes. Residential developments can enhance these spaces, creating picturesque
the view from the Rock River.
I would like to invite the mayor to take a short walk with me to show him that canoers, boaters and others using the Rock River would not be able to
neighborhoods that draw homebuyers and investors, while industrial sites tend to detract from the natural beauty of the area.”
Williams said the installation and maintenance of solar panels may introduce pollutants into the water, especially if chemicals or runoff from maintenance activities contaminate the river.
The Oct. 23 meeting included printed information with questions and answers about Pivot Energy’s “conceptual site plan.” Company representatives were available to answer questions and discuss the project, but no public question-and-answer session was offered.
The printed information outlined the benefits of solar arrays, details on the size of elements used in the project and responses to frequently asked questions about solar farms.
The final questions was: “Why did you choose this location for the solar array?” with the answer: “The solar program requires that we connect to the existing power grid. We must find a landowner interested in entering into a lease with us who has land near existing distribution lines. The land must also be mostly flat with no major issues preventing us from building a solar array.”
see the proposed solar farm from the river.
I hope to hear from him soon.
Tex Bellows Oregon
Marriage applications filed in October:
Oct. 1
Donnie Guy Davis Jr. and Amy Lynn Cox, both of Oregon.
Oct. 2
Michael Turon Daniel Jr., of Rockford, and Wykenda Myrtil Garcia, of Rochelle.
Brandon Tyler Treviranus and Sarah Elizabeth Lalley, both of Dixon.
Jeffrey Reuben Warner and Jessica Ann Kraus, both of Monroe Center.
Dezeray Lynn Morse and Felicia Marie Hanson, both of Rochelle.
Oct. 4
Kegan George Haeseli, of Elburn, and Erin Elizabeth Cinto, of Cortland.
Paul Robert Anzelmo, of Shorewood, and Kelsey Michelle Bergsieker, of Dixon.
Jeffry Thomas Bukowski and Hillary Suzanne Thurnall, both of Elmhurst.
Zeljko Saban Jr. and Ana Gabriela Gonzalez-Chavez, both of Hometown.
Oct. 7
Alec Michael Lukie, of South Elgin, and
OCTOBER ZONING CERTIFICATES
The following Ogle County zoning certificates were issued for October: Charles Winterton; Leaf River Township; Section 28; agricultural building.
Yellow Rock Solar LLC; Oregon-Nashua Township; Section 14; special-use in AG-1 for community solar facility.
HRE LLC; Flagg Township; Section 17; single-family dwelling.
John B. Wells; Mt. Morris Township; Section 26; residential accessory building.
Matthew and Elizabeth Paul; Maryland Township; Section 1; single-family dwelling and residential accessory building.
Verizon Wireless; Mt. Morris Township; Section 21; remove and replace equipment on existing telecommunications facility; $25,000.
Braven Solar/Maas; Rockvale Township; Section 35; two private ground-mounted
Hannah Grace Miller, of Batavia.
Oct. 8
Mitchel William Bialas, of West Brooklyn, and Alyssa Grace Stechschulte, of Rochelle.
Michael George Ruter III, of Polo, and Bailey Ann Montavon, of Oregon.
Oct. 9
Chadd Aikens Webster and Dawn Marie Edwards, both of East Moline.
Daniel Joseph Dohn and Brooke Ann Elmer, both of Genoa.
Oct. 10
Jaron Allen Groshans and Brittany Jade Kuntzelman, both of Forreston.
Destiny Anna Cisneros and Kimberly
Janette Sotelo Aceves, both of Rockford.
Anthony Wayne Austin and Shelley Nicole Griffin, both of Lakeside, California.
Devin Lanier Carter, of Rockford, and Mayu Terawaki, of Shinagawa, Japan.
Oct. 11
Matthew David Ewald and Tina Nicole West, both of Oregon.
Kurt Arthur Schaible and Chimene Muragijimana, both of Oregon.
Anna Marie Portillo and Brittany Christine Jimenez, both of Homewood.
Oct. 16
Thomas Lee Kirschbaum and Jodi Lynn Sutherland, both of Rockford.
Adam Bailey Sutton and Valerie Marie Huenefeld, both of Forreston.
Oct. 17
Kyle James Arnaud, of Arnaudville, Louisiana, and Chauncey Teagan Stanley, of Davis Junction.
Oct. 18
Russell Edward Doran and Kristin Ann Elliott, both of Oregon.
Oct. 21
Larry Dee Floyd Jr. and Stracia Yakkara Madison, both of Rockford.
Steven Michael Manfred Andreen, of Byron, and Ashley Lorraine Collins, of Leaf River.
Daniel Robert Taylor and Amy Lynn Devleeschouwer, both of Hampshire.
Oct. 22
Jamie Lee Ford and Nidia Yolanda Urbina, both of Forreston.
Allison Lynn Ostert and Kessel Dawn-Durham Daniels, both of Chicago.
Alexander Thomas Kromer and Hannah Lyn Myers, both of Rochelle.
Oct. 23
Philip Daniel Wilson and Virginia Kay Helton, both of Oregon.
Oct. 24
Gabriel Hueramo and Angelina Faith Flores, both of Rochelle.
Charles Kevin Harris II and Kendra Lynn Harris, both of Hampshire.
Oct. 25
Joshua Louis Ward and Lori Beth Fay, both of Polo.
Oct. 29
Eric Dean Brant and Melissa Lee Henriksen, both of Oregon.
Oct. 31
Garrett Michael Chandler and McKenzie Rae Pilling, both of Dixon.
Warranty deeds (Nov. 9-15)
Clayton Stouffer and Annabelle Borota, to Paul F. Siembida and Linda K. Shuman-Siembida, 905 Monongahela Drive, Dixon, $315,000.
solar arrays.
Raymond Voss; White Rock Township; Section 16; deck.
Tuff Shed/Jouris; Byron Township; Section 30; residential accessory building.
Cindy Enzler; Oregon-Nashua Township; Section 25; residential accessory building.
Sean Adams Custom Carpentry/ Bellows; Pine Creek Township; Section 13; single-family dwelling.
Alex Czaplinski; Flagg Township; Section 18; single-family dwelling.
Derek Horner; Flagg Township; Section 8; single-family dwelling.
Harvest Solar/Herring; Monroe Township; Section 36; two private ground-mounted solar arrays.
Russell Myers; Grand Detour Township; Section 12; ground sign.
Stephen Grace; Pine Creek Township;
Mary D. Krahenbuhl, trustee, Mary D. Krahenbuhl Trust and Susan A. Finkboner to Michael R. Cruz and Yamile Cruz, 208 Ramona Ave., Rochelle, $59,000. Peggy J. Homeier and Peggy Homeier to Paul D. Holder, 314 Otter Trail Lane, Dixon, $0.
David Henry Lee and Mary A. Henry to Friends of Nachusa Grasslands, Parcel No. 22-10-100-006, $648,000.
James J. Casey to Jerrald Orsted, 203 Mix St., Oregon, and one other parcel,$125,000.
Tyler E. Davis to Tanner L. Grobe and Alexis J. Grobe, 310 N. Franklin Ave., Polo, and 311 N. Green Ave., Polo, $182,000.
Michael G. Burke to William Patrick and
Section 2; maintenance building.
Brian and Katie Harper; Flagg Township; Section 8; dwelling addition.
Caleb and Cara Peterson; Scott Township; Section 28; private ground-mounted solar array.
Bill Hopper; Byron Township; Section 12; temporary amusement.
Wendell Horst; Oregon-Nashua Township; Section 6; dwelling addition.
USCOC of Central Illinois; Rockvale Township; Section 35; equipment upgrades on existing telecommunications facility; $30,000.
Michael Curtis; Byron Township; Section 20; residential accessory building.
Larry Palmer; Monroe Township; Section 19; residential accessory building.
Earl Kittle; Taylor Township; Section 6; residential accessory building.
Eagle Point Solar/Ridenour; Mt. Morris Township; Section 7; private ground-mounted solar array.
Kevin Wubbena; Marion Township; Section 27; residential accessory building.
Merle and Carolyn Meuer; Lafayette Township; Section 15; remove chicken house.
Timothy Foss; Rockvale Township; Section 15; carport.
David Fridley; Rockvale Township; Section 11; residential accessory building.
Jerry Ludewig; Forreston Township; Section 17; remove storage building.
ION Developer LLC/Viveros; Taylor Township; Section 7; private ground-mounted solar array.
Rodney Helgeson; Flagg Township; Section 4; addition to accessory building.
Ashley R. Patrick, 138056 Hemstock Road, Rochelle, $170,000.
Paul M. Diederich to Wyatt Stockton and Kayla Stockton, 8519 E. Valley View Drive, Stillman Valley, $270,000.
Bradley J. Bauer to Ajd Property Group LLC, 217 W. Washington St., Oregon, $115,000.
Patricia K. Farraday to Douglas E. Legg and Stephanie D. Clemente Legg, 2810 N. David Court, Oregon, $470,000.
David Seitz to Lynda Harrison, 610 S. First Ave., Forreston, $129,000.
L H Development Inc. to Eric Pravidica, 1509 Joanne Terrace, Byron; 1445 Joanne Terrace, Byron; and 1423 Joanne Terrace, Byron, $95,000.
Lois M. Barnhart and Angela M. Barnhart to Ryan Blair, 609 W. Fulton St., Polo,, $56,000.
100 Women Who Care surpasses goal of 100 members
Group donates $10,500 to Hope of Ogle County
By BEVERLY OPALKA
100 Women Who Care of Ogle County
OGLE COUNTY – 100 Women Who Care met Oct. 17 at Pinecrest Grove in Mt. Morris and voted to donate $10,500 to Hope of Ogle County. Encore of Mt. Morris and Polo Area Community Theater were the other presenters.
Hope of Ogle County has an outreach to those who are at risk of domestic violence and abuse, offering hope, counseling and safety. In addition, it offers court advocate support and shelter services. The money will go toward a new security system and updating the children’s room.
If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact Hope at 815-5624323 or hopedv.org.
100 Women Who Care donations go to 501(c)(3) organizations within Ogle County.
100 Women Who Care meetings are held on a quarterly basis and presentations are made by nonprofit organizations, which are then voted on to receive $100 from each member.
No other fees are required. The group meets in locations within Ogle County.
In recognition of reaching the goal of 100 members, a celebration dinner was held Oct. 27 at Honey Bee Haven, 3261 Daysville Road, east of Oregon.
The well-attended event was catered by Flight Deck Bar and Grill of Rochelle. Sponsors of the event were Stillman Bank, Union Bank, Thrivent, Byron Bank, Holcomb Bank, Edward Jones and Rochelle Area Community Foundation in recognition of the generous community support of this growing organization
of local women in Ogle County.
An overview of what 100 Women Who Care is about was presented. Membership is at 107, making the quarterly donation more than $10,000.
Julie Hoak of Polo was the organization’s 100th member and was recognized at the Oct. 17 meeting. Other new members were greeted warmly at the celebration Oct. 27.
If you are interested in becoming a member or learning more about how the donation process works for your organization, email Deanna Forrest at forrestdede5@gmail.com or find 100 Women Who Care on Facebook at facebook.com/oglegives.
ABOVE: 100 Women Who Care held a special recognition dinner Oct. 27 at Honey
Haven, east of Oregon.
100 Women Who Care donated $10,500 to Hope of Ogle County on Oct. 17. Julie Hoak of Polo was the club’s 100th member and was congratulated with a bouquet. WCC has added two more members since then and has 107 members since its inception in April 2020.
Performing Arts Guild to present ‘Christmas Eve in Chaos’
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
MT. MORRIS – The Performing Arts Guild of Mt. Morris will present a dessert theater, “Christmas Eve in Chaos,” a festive, side-splitting radio play that captures the spirit of holiday mishaps.
The comedy will be presented Friday through Sunday, Jan. 10-12, at the Allure of Pinecrest Grove Theater, 500 Evergreen Lane, Mt. Morris.
Carol (Trudy Whalen), the ultimate holiday enthusiast, is determined to make Rick’s home the brightest on the block. But when her elaborate light display causes a massive neighbor -
hood blackout, her dreams of a perfect Christmas quickly turn into a holiday disaster.
Linda (Priscilla Osborne), Rick’s sensible wife, finds herself caught in the chaos, trying to keep peace amid the escalating mishaps. Meanwhile, Rick (Mark Tremble) provides sarcastic commentary and Uncle Frank (Larry Ubben) is convinced it’s all part of a government conspiracy. The family must figure out how to restore power before the entire neighborhood turns on them.
As they scramble in the dark, things take an unexpected turn when Santa (Jeff Bold) himself crash-lands his sleigh in their backyard. The rein-
deer are scattered, Santa is flustered and Carol sees it as her chance to save Christmas. With Rick reluctantly dragged along, Linda trying to keep everyone grounded and Uncle Frank still on high alert, the family sets off on a chaotic reindeer hunt through the snowy streets.
“From runaway reindeer to inflatable snowmen, ‘Christmas Eve in Chaos’ delivers laugh after laugh as the family’s holiday woes spiral out of control. This heartwarming comedy is perfect for anyone who needs a post-holiday pick-me-up and a reminder that even the most chaotic Christmas can bring joy,” said Pam Ballard, one of the show’s producers.
Performance times are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $16, with a $2 discount for students. Dessert (included in the price) will be served at intermission. Reservations are encouraged.
For information, call 815-734-2103 or order tickets online at performingartsguild.com.
Because of scheduling conflicts, this show will replace the previously scheduled play “A Christmas Story.”
“Christmas in Chaos” is an original play by Morgan McConnell, directed by Morgan McConnell and assisted by Dave Sheely. It is being produced by Jennifer Bakener and Pamela Ballard.
Bee
LEFT:
Photos provided by Beverly Opalka
Continued from page 8
Michael D. Ingram to Debra L. Ingram to Matthew R. Cappel, trustee and Matthew R. Cappell Dec Tr101, 10031 E. Shagbark Lane, Rochelle, $400,000.
Nicholas Haines, Natasha HaInes and Natasha Knutson to Nicholas Haines and Natasha Haines, 601 Sunset Drive, Polo, $0. Gary D. Christen and Mary E. Christen to Maura C. Harrison and Kenneth R. Green, 306 N. Fifth St., Oregon, $182,000.
Vinicius Miranda and Nina Miranda to Bradley Allen Gardner, 408 W. Main St., Mt. Morris, $175,525.
ROBERT “RJ” JAMES PICKEL
Born: September 13, 1954 in Chicago, IL
Died: November 10, 2024 in Oregon, IL
Robert James Pickel (RJ) (Jim) passed away on November 10, 2024. He leaves behind his wife Valerie, daughter Ashley, stepson Jason (Nicole), grandson Phoenix and many many friends. Hewas born in Chicago on August 13, 1954 to Robert (Bobbie) and Luanne Pickel. The family moved to Dundee where he went to school. After graduating in 1972 he learned how to upholster and opened his first shop. Over the years he had a van shop in Rockford where he custom converted
Yvonne L. Spink and Dawn M. Elledge to Stephen M. Chapman and Amanda Lee Chapman, 8961 E. Fowler Road, Rochelle, $350,000.
Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, trustee, First Franklin Mortgage, Newrez LLC, New Penn Financial LLC, and Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing to David C. Gould, 205 E. Chicago Ave., Davis Junction, $43,000.
Quit claim deeds
John R. Gomez to John R. Gomez and Elaine Gomez, 1045 N. Ninth St., Rochelle, $0.
Trustee deeds
Fred Laroche, trustee, to Errett
fun vans. In the late 70’s he opened a shop in Oregon and finally built his own shop on his property in 2006. He upholstered everything from bar stools, airplanes, boats, furniture and beautiful fainting couches. He also produced llama and alpaca show coats and various other items for llamas and horses which were sold worldwide. He loved life and loved to make people laugh. He was always coming up with goofy one-liners, totally politically incorrect jokes, and spontaneous antics. He was a joy to be around even when his jokes were ridiculous. He loved Hawaiian shirts which he wore in the winter over his long underwear. He will be greatly missed by many. A celebration of life will be held on January 11, 2025 from 3:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at the Oregon, Illinois VFW. In his memory, donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital are appreciated.
Warehousing LLC, 15890 E. Lund Road, Rochelle, and one other parcel, $5,000,000.
Daniel A Schmidt, trustee and Schmidt Family Trust to Daniel A. Schmidt, trustee and Tammy L. Schmidt, trustee, and Daniel A. and Tammy L. Schmidt, trustees, five tracts of land, $0.
Matthew K. Downing, trustee and Katherine A, Downing, trustee to Downing Family Trust and Rachel Woratschka, 1216 Union Drive, Davis Junction, $270,000.
Paul Gilbert, trustee, and Kmg Trl, to Avp Real Estate LLC and Avp Kirkland LLC, 219 Powers Road, Rochelle, $555,000.
Danny J. Hedlund, trustee, Susan M.
WILLIAM ‘TERRY’ MESSER
Born: February 14, 1949
Died: November 13, 2024
The Love of the Game The Time The Effort The Pain The Passion The Courage You sacrificed it all for The Love of The Game
Happiness
Spirit
Dreams
Success
Respect
Enthusiasm
You gained it all from The Love of the Game
In Memory of William “Terry” Messer
February 14th, 1949 –November 13th, 2024 Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather & coach
Hedland, trustee, and Danny J. and Susan M. Hedlund Trust, 8723 N. Hedge Road, Byron, $420,000.
Beverly J. Linzmann, trustee, Susan J. Mooney, trustee and Draege Family Trl, to Kaitlyn Horstman and Josh L. Anderson, 908 Adams St., Oregon, $182,000.
Deeds in trust
Alan L. Bull, and Kathy A. Bull to Alan L. Bull, trustee, and Kathy A. Bull, trustee, 728 E. Park Road, Oregon, $0.
Karen S. Digby to Karen S. Digby, trustee, and Karen S. Digby Trust, 4740 S. Lowell Park Road, Polo, $0.
Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office
proud Mounder. He married his high school sweetheart Janice (McGinnis) Messer on December 23rd, 1967 and celebrated nearly 57 years together. After high school, he was a photoengraver at Kable Printing in Mt. Morris until he retired at the age of 62. He also coached Blackhawk Jr. Tackle football and then coached at Sterling Newman Central Catholic High School. He was proud to be a part of a coaching staff that led their team to five state championships, but his greatest love was his family.
He was born February 14th, 1949 in Oregon, IL. Son of William & Thelma (Ray) Messer. He attended Mt. Morris schools and was a
Terry is survived by his wife Janice, his three sons William “Rob” (Shelley) Messer, Todd (Kayla) Messer, Eric (Alfredo Aldana) Messer. His sister Sharon Maree, her three sons Chris (Candy) Huffman, Dusty (Kim) Huffman and Jay Huffman. He was blessed with seven grandchildren Bailey (Kevin) Wolf, Tatum (Brad) Fish, Sean Messer, Breanna (Aaron) Tewksbury, Andrew Messer, Colin Messer and Giuliana Messer along with four great grandchildren, Emersyn and Landry Wolf, Atticus and Lincoln Fish, and four great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and mother and father in-law. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday November 23, 2024 from 1:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. in the Mt. Morris Moose Lodge, Moose Lane, Mt. Morris, IL.
In lieu of flowers memorials to the Mt. Morris Fire Department.
Retired Teachers Association presents scholarships
Three college students majoring in education were selected as winners of $500 scholarships from the Ogle-Lee Retired Teachers Association and the Pamela J. Farris Scholarship. Lauren Giddings of Stillman Valley, Abigail Wehler of Mt. Morris and Heather Braden of Oregon were this year’s recipients. ABOVE: Wehler receives a check from Phil Bratta, the scholarship chairman. RIGHT: Giddings receives a check from Bratta.
Wednesday Nov 20th 4pm-8pm
Thursday Nov 21st 9am-7pm
Friday Nov 22nd 9am-7pm
Saturday Nov 23rd 9am 2pm
Photos provided by Jean Whipple
Heather Braden of Oregon receives her scholarship check from Pamela Farris.
Ogle County Board honors three long-serving members
By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com
OREGON – Ogle County Board members bid a fond farewell to three longtime county officials Tuesday night, wishing them well on their retirements but not without some hearty thanks and tokens of appreciation.
Board member Tom Smith, R-Rochelle, board chairman John Finfrock, R-Mt. Morris, and coroner Louis Finch IV, R-Mt. Morris, all received official recognition of thanks at their last official board meeting at the Ogle County Courthouse.
Finfrock began his tenure on the Ogle County Board representing District 7 in December 2010 and became board chairman in September 2019 after the death of then chairman Kim Gouker.
Vice Chairman Patricia Nordman of Oregon read an official proclamation extolling Finfrock’s contributions.
“He stepped into the role of County
Board chair, demonstrating exceptional leadership during a time of unexpected transition, and throughout his tenure John has been a driving force behind a board that emphasizes collaboration, innovation and committee-driven approach to governance,” Nordman said.
She praised Finfrock’s “keen business judgment, quick wit and invaluable experience” as the leader “setting ambitious goals and inspiring those around him” to achieve them.
Former Circuit Clerk Mary Typer of Stillman Valley said Finfock was the “right guy, at the right time, in the right place.”
“Enjoy your retirement,” Typer said.
Polo Mayor Doug Knapp echoed that sentiment.
“You are a wonderful person. Thank you for all your service,” Knapp said.
Smith said retirement was “another step in the road that we take in life.”
He thanked all the committee members he worked with during his tenure.
“We have some great resources in our county,” he said. “I was real proud of the fact that I fought real hard to keep wind turbines out of our county. We have all the green energy we need. They don’t fit in our environment. They are too tall. They don’t work.”
He praised the diversity of the board and its members’ commitment to serving its citizens.
“And you people have stepped up in serving, saying that you believe in our county and you are working forward so the taxpayers in the county can stay in the county, live in this county and retire in this county without having an overburden of taxes,” he said.
Finch, who owns Finch Funeral & Crematory in Mt. Morris, was elected coroner in November 2004.
Finfrock said Finch personally fostered and championed “significant improvements in the coroner’s office”
during his tenure.
“Lou Finch’s unwavering vision of community commitment would provide a lasting legacy as exemplified by his personal outreach and mentoring of his staff. His outstanding service is further exemplified by the personal outreach and compassionate care extended by both him and his staff, ensuring that every citizen is treated with respect, dignity and attentiveness in their time of need,” Finfrock said.
“I hope I did the job well for the county,” Finch said. “Thank you. I appreciate it.”
Finfrock presided over the rest of the meeting and offered these closing comments.
“I have a lot of people to thank for these last years,” Finfrock said. “I go around this table and see everyone who made this work. I’m going to miss it, but there are good people coming up.
“It’s all been good. ... Most of it,” he said, chuckling.
Photos by Earleen Hinton
District 2 Ogle County Board member Tom Smith of Rochelle speaks after receiving a certificate of recognition from Board Chairman John Finfrock of Mt. Morris at the Ogle County Board meeting Nov. 19. Smith is retiring from the board and attended his final board meeting Tuesday.
Retiring Ogle County Coroner Lou Finch (left) of Mt. Morris receives a certificate of appreciation from Board Chairman John Finfrock at the Ogle County Board meeting Nov. 19. Finch has served as coroner since 2004 and chose not to run for reelection this year.
Retiring Ogle County Board Chairman John Finfrock gets a hug from Vice Chairman Patricia Nordman at the Ogle County Board meeting Nov. 19. Finfrock has been a board member since 2019 and has served as chairman since 2010.
Missiles make history with first trip to state final
By TY REYNOLDS Shaw Local News Network correspondent
MILLEDGEVILLE – Looking to grab the momentum early in Saturday’s Illinois 8-Man Football Association semifinal, Milledgeville got a lightning bolt from the blue on its first snap from scrimmage.
Micah Toms-Smith’s 86-yard touchdown sprint set the tone from the start and the Missiles turned things over to their stout defense to defeat Polo 28-14 at Floyd Daub Fueld. The win snapped a two-game losing streak at home to their rivals.
Even bigger: The victory sent Milledgeville to the state championship game for the first time in program history.
“We’ve never played for a state championship at our school, so this just means everything,” Toms-Smith said. “I’m just speechless right now, just so proud of my guys.”
“I don’t know if it’s sunk in yet,” junior quarterback Karter Livengood said. “I just know we’ve got another big game [this] week.”
Milledgeville (11-1) avenged a regu-
lar-season loss to the Marcos (11-1) on its home field, flipping the script from a year ago when the Missiles beat Polo in the regular-season game before losing in their second-round playoff game.
The Missiles had a pair of 100-yard rushers in Toms-Smith (14 carries, 120 yards, TD) and Livengood (29 carries, 197 yards, 3 TDs). Livengood had touchdown runs of 9, 41 and 21 yards, the final one on a fourth-and-2 with 3:39 to play that all but ended the Marcos’ hopes.
“We did it last Saturday and we knew we could do it again,” Livengood said about the final clock-killing drive. “Getting the lead, we knew we had to eat up the clock three yards at a time and that’s exactly what we did. It’s two elite teams going at it, iron on iron, and things fell our way. I think we wanted it more.”
On the other side of the ball, the Missiles’ defense limited Polo senior quarterback Gus Mumford to 43 yards on 18 carries and senior back Noah Dewey to 24 yards on seven carries. Mumford completed 9 of 19 passes for 113 yards and a touchdown, but playing from behind was an uphill battle.
“The one big play, obviously they’re a momentum team, and anything they get, they’re going to gain off it,” Dewey said.
Earleen Hinton
Milledgeville’s Karter Livengood carries the ball against Polo on Nov. 16 during their Illinois 8-Man Football Association semifinal.
Continued from page 13
“I think we all just got down on ourselves right away. We’ve just got to stay positive there,” Mumford said.
That “one big play” was a doozy. Toms-Smith took a direct snap and got around the left edge. He then outran all eight Polo defenders for an 8-0 lead just 21 seconds into the game.
“All week the coaches had written up five plays we were going to run to start the game and when he said that one, I told him, ‘I’ll get you a touchdown,’ and that’s what we did,” Toms-Smith said. “I can’t even explain how great my line blocked on that play and Karter and Dalton [Adamec] set the edge, so it was really just a race to the end zone. It was the biggest play of the game. Momentum is what we knew we needed and that’s what got us to this win.”
“Oh, man, that set the tone immediately, set the tone for the rest of the game,” Livengood said. “It was a huge confidence boost for the whole team.”
“We wanted to get a quick start because we knew that we had a good defense – we knew that they had a good defense, too – and we felt whoever put points on the board first, it was going to be tough to play catch-up and our guys responded,” Milledgeville coach Jason Wroble said.
After Livengood’s 21-yard run set up
his first touchdown, Polo answered on its third series. Kailin Gulbranson’s 46-yard run set up the Marcos at the Milledgeville 6-yard line and Dewey ran in from three yards out two plays later.
“It was a tough start. Their first offensive play they score and we lose a key lineman on both sides of the ball [Logan Nelson, knee injury] on our first series,” Polo coach Ted Alston said. “We didn’t quit, we came back, but unfortunately, I thought they just
played a little better than us today and forced us to do some things that we really didn’t want to have to try to do.”
Livengood sprinted 41 yards to the end zone on the Missiles’ second play of the second half for a 22-8 lead. After the teams traded punts, Mumford opened the next series with a 29-yard pass to Dewey and then hit a wide-open Damon Rowe on a 26-yard touchdown pass to cut the deficit to 22-14 with 1:09 left in the third quarter.
“Even though we were down a cou-
ple of touchdowns, we still had energy out there, we still performed,” Mumford said. “But they beat us in the physical game today.”
The Missiles put the game away with the next drive, covering 84 yards in 15 plays and taking 9:19 off the clock. They converted two third downs and two fourth downs on the drive, the last one Livengood’s TD run around left end to put the Missiles up 28-14 with less than four minutes remaining.
“Karter is a load on both sides of the ball and we just decided to put the ball in our stud’s hand and it paid off,” Wroble said.
“Our kids never quit. It just felt like we couldn’t make that one play at a key time to try to turn the momentum around,” Alston said. “I give Milledgeville credit. They’d have fourth-and-3 and they’d get 3 1/2. We just were unable to get that key stop at a key moment or make that key play on offense at a key time and sometimes that’s just how the game goes.”
The loss ended another strong season for the Marcos, who went 9-0 in the regular season and advanced to the I8FA semifinals for the fifth straight season.
“We definitely surprised a lot of people,” Dewey said. “Our coaches were always talking about how everyone was doubting us, didn’t think we could go 9-0, 10-0, 11-0. All year, we just went out there and proved ourselves.”
Earleen Hinton
Polo’s Damon Rowe scores during an I8FA state semifinal against Milledgeville on Nov. 16.
Football playoff dream ends again – for 50th straight year
November marks a 50-year love/ hate relationship I have with the Illinois High School Association’s football playoffs dating to the very first year the IHSA instituted postseason play.
I recall gazing out at our empty practice field at Rochelle in 1974 and silently saying to myself, “What a shame.”
Even though we had defeated league champ Geneseo in the regular season, they represented the NCIC in the playoffs, not us. With a team good enough to win the state title, we botched our chances with shoddy play in a couple of other games. And with only 80 teams in five classes in the playoffs, you practically had to win your conference to qualify.
It was FOMO (fear of missing out) before that term was coined.
The next year, we won the conference outright and got the automatic invite to the playoffs. My senior season came to an end, though, when Geneva knocked us out 21-14 and advanced to the championship game. That one-touchdown loss was further amplified by yours truly dropping a wide-open pass that would have gone for a score.
In 1977, Rochelle was unscored
Andy Colbert GUEST VIEW
upon in the conference and entered the playoffs ranked No. 1 in the state. In a fate worse than Byron facing Montini in Round 2, the Hubs ended up against conference archrival Geneseo in Round 1.
Although my playing days were over, it was with nervous anticipation that I sat in the old Helms Field stands on a Wednesday afternoon (yes, teams used to play two games in the first week on the playoffs) watching the two best teams in Class 3A go at it. Sadly, an early Hubs lead evaporated and Geneseo pulled out the win on its way to an easy romp to the state championship.
Thus, my IHSA playoff psyche was impacted early on with my school’s chances for grid glory gone by the wayside. It continued over the decades, with three semifinals defeats circa 2000.
Don’t get me wrong. As much as playoff losses can haunt a person, the wins can be heavenly. And the experi-
ence of playing past the regular season is unique in itself, especially for us old-timers who remember when football was over after the regular season.
I bring all this up because of the dread I felt last Saturday morning. With one of its best teams ever, Rochelle had a quarterfinal playoff game that day. Unfortunately, it was against two-time defending 5A champ La Grange Nazareth and its Division I roster.
My gut was telling me that more playoff disappointment awaited. Rather than subject myself to this, dare I stay home and regret that Rochelle didn’t fall down to 4A instead?
My spirits were lifted a bit as I stepped outside that morning and felt a brisk chill and smelled leaves burning, almost like going back in time to 1974, as some nostalgic senses never leave you. Gosh darn it, this is football weather and anything is possible, right? I couldn’t stay home.
Besides, Rochelle put major beatdowns on its first two Catholic League playoff foes. With their physical brand of play, high-scoring offense, homefield advantage and stellar group of 20 seniors, maybe the Hubs could shock the state.
My newfound optimism soon was replaced by the cruel realities of Illinois high school playoff football. A far superior team, Nazareth reeled off 28 points in the second quarter and for the 50th straight year, there will be no state title game appearance for Rochelle.
Over the years, I have gotten some relief in the form of numerous marches to the state finals by Byron, Forreston and Stillman Valley. Covering each of those championship games, I felt emotionally attached and truly enjoyed the experience, admittedly with a twinge of jealousy. Still, it’s not the same if it isn’t your school or town.
For me, the dream still lives on. Or does it?
In 1974, the most popular graduation song was “We May Never Pass This Way Again” by Seals and Croft. One of the lyrics is “Dreams, so they say, are for the fools and they let them slip away.”
Maybe I have been playing the fool all this time and after 50 years it is time to let the dream slip away.
• Andy Colbert, an avid runner, is a sports writer for Shaw Local covering high school sports in Ogle County.
Early Childhood Mental Health Awareness Month
Early childhood mental health means healthy social and emotional development in young children. Children are more likely to develop good social and emotional skills when they have safe, secure and nurturing relationships with other people. Sinnissippi Centers offers mental health services for all ages, including children in the early stage of life. We’re here when you need us.
Boys bowling
Oregon’s Keene rolls 299: Oregon kicked off its season with a standout game from junior RJ Keene, who rolled a 299 in the first game at the Mendota Invite at IV Super Bowl in Peru. The team placed third for the day. Individual highlights included Gavvin Surmo (915) taking third. Keene (840) was sixth and Ethan Smice (817) was 10th.
Oregon 3,679, Rockford Lutheran 2,418: Oregon’s RJ Keene followed up his 299 game at the Mendota Invite with a 288 high game and 674 high series in the win over Rockford Lutheran. Gavvin Surmo (658), Ethan Smice (635), Matthew Stahl (624) and Caleb Brooks (616) also had strong series for the Hawks.
Oregon 3,625, Erie-Prophetstown 2,582: Oregon improved to 2-0 after the dual win. Gavvin Surmo’s 720 was high series, followed by RJ Keene’s 703. Keene’s 269 was high game and Surmo had a 266. Keith Goodson’s 587 series and 212 game led E-P.
Oregon 3,526, Rochelle 3,076: Gavvin Surmo’s 676 series led the Hawks with Matthew Stahl (675) just a pin behind. RJ Keene rolled a 601 series for Oregon in its home opener. Stahl had a high game of 287 for Oregon.
• POLICE CHASE
Continued from page 6
Kalnins said Oregon police officers and Ogle County deputies conducted an extensive search of the area but were unable to find the vehicle’s driver at that time.
Valdivia is scheduled to be arraigned at 1:30 p.m. Nov. 21 on the following traffic charges: driving on a suspended license; reckless driving; speeding 26 to 34 mph over the speed limit; failure to stop at an intersection; operating an uninsured motor vehicle; disregarding a traffic control device; and improper turn signal.
Valdivia first appeared in court Nov. 6 for a detention hearing. Peska
Rounding out Oregon’s performances were Caleb Brooks with a 551 series, Ivan Hernandez with a 514 series and Ethan Smice with a 509 series. The contest continued Oregon’s streak of at least one individual game over 265 in all four events this season with Matthew Stahl rolling a 287 against Rochelle and Gavvin Surmo having a 276. Rochelle was led by Logan Frye with a 603 series.
Oregon JV Tournament: The Hawks hosted their annual JV tournament at Plum Hollow Family Center in Dixon and finished in second place in the 13-team field, just behind Freeport. The Hawks were led by individual champion Caleb Ehrler with a 1,219 six-game series (171, 213, 217, 162, 188, 268). His sixth game, a 268, was the highest of the tournament. Also in the top 12 were seventh-place finisher Nolan Page with a 1,079 series and 12th-place finisher Wyatt Dunbar with a 1,037 series. Ivan Hernandez rolled a 989 series, Diego Hernandez had a 897 series, Ashe Kramer had a 867 series and Kodi Miller had a 717 series.
The Hawks made a run at Freeport in the sixth and final game with a 1,043, the highest score of any team in the tournament, but came up 51 pins short of the championship.
denied his release and remanded him to the Ogle County jail.
On Nov. 13, Valdivia asked if he could be sentenced that day. Peska said he would have to contact the Ogle County State’s Attorney’s Office to see if a plea agreement could be reached.
Assistant State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten told Peska his office would “reach out” to Valdivia.
Leisten asked Peska to continue to deny Valdivia’s release from jail.
Valdivia said he was not homeless and had a place to live in Oregon if he were to be released, adding he would like to be able to put his motorcycle inside for the winter.
Peska denied Valdivia’s release and remanded him to the jail.
Earleen Hinton file photo
Oregon’s RJ Keene eyes a shot during the Hawk Invitational at Plum Hollow Lanes in Dixon in 2023. Keene recently rolled a 299 game for the Hawks.
CLASSIFIED
DIXON
GARAGE SALES
Estate Sale
635 Timbercreek Rd
Saturday 9a- 4p household items, copious amounts of glassware, furniture and older tools.
Estate Sale
635 Timbercreek Rd
Saturday 9a- 4p household items, copious amounts of glassware, furniture and older tools.
ROCK FALLS
EFFICIENCY
-Furni shedUtili ti es incl.
$175/wk
815-626-8790
CNA' s - Certified Nurses Aide s to work in h omes of c lie nts prim arily in the Dixon and Mt Mo rris area s.
Competitive wages with flexible work hours created by the employee Part-Time and Full-Time positions available
Apply at:
GaffeyHealthService.co m and click jobs-apply online or go to 10760.Axiscare.com and click apply onlin e
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
OG LE COUNT Y, ILLINOIS
OG LE COUNT Y, ILLINOIS
LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING LLC, PLAINTIF F, VS.
MARK G SCHABACKER A/K/A MARK SCHABACKER; SUSAN MICHELLE
SCHABACKER A/K/A SUSAN M MYROTH-BOWKER; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; DEFENDANTS
NO. 24 FC 17
130 SOUTH 6TH STREET ROCHELLE, IL 61068
NOTICE OF SALE PURSUANT TO JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE UNDER ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE ACT
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Forecl osure and Sale entered by the Court in the above entitled cause on August 19, 2024, She riff will on December 6, 2024, in the Ogle County Sheriff's Office, Main Lobby, 202 South First Street, Oregon, IL 61061, at 10:00 AM, sell at public auction and sale to the highest bidder for cash, all and singul ar, the following described real estate mentioned in said Judgment, situated in the County of Ogle, State of Illinois, or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment:
TAX NO 24-25-126-013
COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 130 South 6th Stree t Rochelle, IL 61068
Description of Improvements: The property is a single family. The property has no garage. The exterior is vi nyl siding. The color is tan. The property does not have a fence. The prope rty is occupied.
The Judgment amount wa s $80,552.83.
FORETHOUGHT LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, Pla intiff, vs. FRANK NAVARRO, JR. AKA FRANK NAVARRO; KATHLEEN A. NAVARRO; Defendant(s).
CASE NO. 2024FC7
Property Address: 6130 N. Jeffr ey Lane Oregon, IL 61061 NOTICE OF SHERIFF SALE
Pub lic notice is hereby given that in pursuance of a judgment of said Court entered in the above-entitled cause on September 6, 2024, I, Sheriff Brian VanVickle of Ogle County, Illinois, will hold a sale on December 20, 2024, commencing at 10:00AM, at the Ogle County Sheriff's Office, 202 S. 1st Street, Oregon, IL 61061, to sell to the highest bidder or bidders the following desc ribed real estate, or so much thereof as may be sufficient to satisfy sa id decree, to wit: Commonly known as: 6130 N. Jeffrey Lane, Oregon, IL 61061
P.I .N.: 09-03-476-001
First Lien Posi tion; Single-Family Residence ; Judgment Amount
$257,371.99 IN ACCORDANCE WITH 735 ILCS 5/15- 1507(c) (1)(H- 1) AND (H-2), 765 ILCS 605/9 (G)(5) , AND 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1), YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE PURCHASER OF THE PROPERTY OTHER THAN A MORTGAGEE, SHALL PAY THE A SSESSME NTS AND LEGAL FEES REQUIRE D BY SUBSECTIONS (g)(1) AND (g)(4) OF SECTION 9 AND THE ASSESSMENTS AND COURT COSTS REQUIRED BY SUBSECTION (g-1) OF SECTION 18.5 OF THE ILLI NOIS CONDOMINIUM PROPERTY ACT.
Terms of Sale: CASH - 10% down at the time of sale and the balance du e wit hin 24 hours of the sale. All payments for the amount bid shall be in certified funds payabl e to the Sheriff of Ogle County.
The person to contact for information regarding this property is: Sales Department at Diaz Anselmo & Associat es, LLC, 1771 West Diehl Road, Suite 120, Naperville, IL 60563, (630) 453-6960. For bidding instructions, visit www.dallegal.com 24 hours prior to sa le
This communicat ion 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@da ll egal.com
November 15, 22, 29, 2024 947822
Sale Terms: This is an "AS IS" sale for "CASH" . The successful bidder must deposit 10% down by certified funds; balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. NO REFUNDS
The subject prope rty is subject to general real estate taxes, special asse ssments or special taxes levied against said real estate, water bills, etc., and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to pla intiff. The sale is furthe r subject to confirmation by the court
Upon pay ment in ful l of the bid amount, the purchaser shall rece ive a Certificate of Sale, whic h will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the r eal estate after confirmation of the sale
The property will NOT be open for ins pection. Prospecti ve bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information
The successful purchaser has the sole responsibili ty/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises.
If this prope rty is a condomi nium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, othe r than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fee s required by The Condominium Prope rty Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).
IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTIO N 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
For Information: V is it our website at http://ilforeclosuresales.mrpllc.com
Between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m only - McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff's Attorneys, 1 N. Dearborn St., Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel. No. (312) 3469088. Please refer to file# 22- 13371IL
PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT, THE PLAINTIF F'S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.
Pla intiff's attorney is not required to provide additional information other than that set forth in this notice of sa le I3255228
November 15, 22, 29, 2024
Publication Notice of Court Date for Request for Name Change (Adult)
State of Illinois, Circuit Court, Ogle County
Request of:
Katelyn Ruby Bowers
2024 MR 33
My current name is:
Katelyn Ruby Bowers
I wish my name to be changed to:
Katelyn Ruby Kope r Court Date
Information:
December 11, 2024 at 9:00 a.m at 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061 County, in Courtroom #304.
/s/ Katelyn Bowers
Kate lyn Bowers
November 15, 22, 29, 2024
Publication Notice of Court Date for Request for Name Change (Adult) State of Illinois, Circuit Court, Ogle County
Request of:
Tanya KoperBowers
2024 MR 38
My current name is:
Tanya KoperBowers
I wish my name to be changed to:
Tanya Koper Court Date
Information:
December 11, 2024 at 9:00 a.m at 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061 County, in Courtroom #304.
/s/ Tanya KoperBowers
Tanya KoperBowers
November 15, 22, 29, 2024
Ogle County Classifieds
833-584-NEWS
As sumed Name Publication Notice Public Notice is hereby given that on November 8, 2024, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County Clerk's Office setting forth the names and postoffice address of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as:
Hot Diggity Dog loca ted at 109 Amber Dr. Oregon, IL 61061
Dated November 8, 2024.
Laura J. Cook
Laura J. Cook
Ogle County Clerk
Nov. 22, 29, Dec. 6, 2024
(3
Hot Diggity Dog loca ted at 109 Amber Dr. Oregon, IL 61061
Dated November 8, 2024.
Laura J. Cook
Laura J. Cook
Ogle County Clerk
Nov. 22, 29, Dec. 6, 2024
PUBLIC NOTICE
Supplement to October 18, 2024 Notice of assessment changes:
Required level of assessment (35 ILCS 200/9-145)
33.33%
Property other than farmland and coal is to be assessed at a 33.33% median l evel of assessment, based on the fair cash value of the property
Truly, Tricia M Black , CIAO
Truly, Tricia M Black , CIAO
Ogle County Supervisor of Assessments
November 22, 2024
833-584-NEWS
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OG LE COUNT Y, ILLINOIS
Ogle County Supervisor of Assessments
November 22, 2024
LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING LLC, PLAINTIF F, VS. MARK G SCHABACKER A/K/A MARK SCHABACKER; SUSAN MICHELLE SCHABACKER A/K/A SUSAN M MYROTH-BOWKER; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; DEFENDANTS
NO. 24 FC 17
130 SOUTH 6TH STREET ROCHELLE, IL 61068
NOTICE OF SALE PURSUANT TO JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE UNDER ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE ACT
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Forecl osure and Sale entered by the Court in the above entitled cause on August 19, 2024, She riff will on December 6, 2024, in the Ogle County Sheriff's Office, Main Lobby, 202 South First Street, Oregon, IL 61061, at 10:00 AM, sell at public auction and sale to the highest bidder for cash, all and singul ar, the following described real estate mentioned in said Judgment, situated in the County of Ogle, State of Illinois, or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment: LOT SIX (6) AND THE NORTH 9 FEET OF LOT SEVEN (7) IN BL OCK TWO (2) AS DESIGNATED UPON THE PLAT OF MALLERY'S ADDITION TO ROCHELLE, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE EAST HALF (1/2) OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER (1/4) OF SECTION 25, IN TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 1 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, THE PLAT OF WHICH SUBDI VISI ON IS RECORDED IN BOOK "A" OF PLATS ON PAGE 178 IN THE RECORDER'S OFFICE OF OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF OGLE AND STATE OF ILLINOIS
TAX NO 24-25-126-013
COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 130 South 6th Stree t Rochelle, IL 61068
Description of Improvements: The property is a single family. The property has no garage. The exterior is vi nyl siding The color is tan The property does not have a fence. The prope rty is occupied.
The Judgment amount wa s $80,552.83.
Sale Terms: This is an "AS IS" sale for "CASH" . The successful bidder must deposit 10% down by certified funds; balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. NO REFUNDS
The subject prope rty is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate, water bills, etc., and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to pla intiff. The sale is furthe r subject to confirmation by the court Upon pay ment in ful l of the bid amount, the purchaser shall rece ive a Certificate of Sale, whic h will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the r eal estate after confirmation of the sale
The property will NOT be open for ins pection. Prospecti ve bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information
The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises.
If this prope rty is a condomi nium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, othe r than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fee s required by The Condominium Prope rty Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).
IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTIO N 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
For Information: V is it our website at http://ilforeclosuresales.mrpllc.com
Between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m only - McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff's Attorneys, 1 N. Dearborn St., Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel. No. (312) 3469088. Please refer to file# 22-13371IL
PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT
COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT, THE PLAINTIF F'S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.
Pla intiff's attorney is not required to provide additional information other than that set forth in this notice of sa le I3255228
November 15, 22, 29, 2024
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OG LE COUNT Y, ILLINOIS
FORETHOUGHT LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, Pla intiff, vs. FRANK NAVARRO, JR. AKA FRANK NAVARRO; KATHLEEN A. NAVARRO; Defendant(s)
CASE NO. 2024FC7
Property Address: 6130 N. Jeffr ey Lane Oregon, IL 61061 NOTICE OF SHERIFF SALE
Pub lic notice is hereby given that in pursuance of a judgment of said Court entered in the above-entitled cause on September 6, 2024, I, Sheriff Brian VanVickle of Ogle County, Illinois, will hold a sale on December 20, 2024, commencing at 10:00AM, at the Ogle County Sheriff's Office, 202 S. 1st Street, Oregon, IL 61061, to sell to the highest bidder or bidders the following desc ribed real estate, or so much thereof as may be sufficient to satisfy sa id decree, to wit:
LOT THREE (3) AS DESIGNATED UPON THE PLAT OF WHEAT RIDGE SUBDIVISION, BEING A SUBDI VISION LOCATED IN PART OF THE SOUTHE AST QUARTER OF SECTIO N THREE (3) AND PART OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION TWO (2), IN TOWNSHIP TWENTY-FOUR (24) NORTH, RANGE TEN (10) EAST OF THE FOURTH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT FILE C, PAGE 46 AS DOCUMENT NO 1995-1031 IN THE RECORDER'S OFFICE OF OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS; SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF OGLE AND THE STATE OF ILLINOIS.
Commonly known as: 6130 N. Jeffrey Lane, Oregon, IL 61061 P.I .N.: 09-03-476-001
First Lien Posi tion; Single-Family Residence ; Judgment Amount $257,371.99 IN ACCORDANCE WITH 735 ILCS 5/15- 1507(c) (1)(H- 1) AND (H-2), 765 ILCS 605/9 (G)(5) , AND 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1), YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE PURCHASER OF THE PROPERTY OTHER THAN A MORTGAGEE, SHALL PAY THE A SSESSME NTS AND LEGAL FEES REQUIRE D BY SUBSECTIONS (g)(1) AND (g)(4) OF SECTION 9 AND THE ASSESSMENTS AND COURT COSTS REQUIRED BY SUBSECTION (g-1) OF SECTION 18.5 OF THE ILLI NOIS CONDOMINIUM PROPERTY ACT.
Terms of Sale: CASH - 10% down at the time of sale and the balance du e wit hin 24 hours of the sale. All payments for the amount bid shall be in certified funds payabl e to the Sheriff of Ogle County.
The person to contact for information regarding this property is: Sales Department at Diaz Anselmo & Associat es, LLC, 1771 West Diehl Road, Suite 120, Naperville, IL 60563, (630) 453-6960. For bidding instructions, visit www.dallegal.com 24 hours prior to sa le
This communicat ion 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@da ll egal.com 8190-947822
November 15, 22, 29, 2024 947822
