Issuu

OREGON

CENTRAL BANK OF ILLINOIS

(815) 732-3282

ROCHELLE

(815) 562-5571

VOLUME 155 NO. 19 • SERVING THE FORRESTON AREA SINCE 1865

COUNTY NEWS

Friday, September 4, 2020 • $1.00

A BERRY GOOD TIME

COVID-19 Impact The Pride of Oregon paddlewheeler is facing rough waters. / 12

COUNTY NEWS

Plant to Close? Exelon says it will close the Byron nuclear power plant in 2021. / 3

Better Place Forests A California company seeks a special use permit near Oregon. / 16

Alex T. Paschal/Shaw Media

Connor and Meredith Winn of Oswego pick through the aronia berry patch at Berry View Orchard south of Forreston on Saturday. The two made the road trip from Oswego just to visit the orchard. The orchard just opened a new store on Aug. 29 and will be hosting food trucks on Sept. 12, 13, 19 and 20 and Oct. 3, 10 and 11.

One Section - 20 Pages

INDEX Betty’s Column......... 5 Birth...........................14 Burning Rules...........17 Business News.........18

Colbert’s Column...... 7 Classifieds......... 19-20 Library News............. 8 Oregon Police...........13

Otto’s Column........... 6 Property Transfers...13 Sheriff Arrests..........13 Zoning Permits........14

DEATHS Published every Friday by Ogle County Newspapers, a division of Shaw Media

Ernest F. Bricker, Susan M. ‘Sue’ Hanson, Harlan L. Holm, Mary Lee Kaney, Page 15

Forreston Journal / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

FORRESTON BEAT

FORRESTON

Journal

LOCAL NEWS

Holm leaves legacy of local volunteerism BY JEFF HELFRICH

oglecountynews.com OFFICE 113-115 Peoria Ave. Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 732-6166 ext. 2592 Fax: (815) 284-2078 SUBSCRIPTIONS $39 in Ogle County, and $52 outside Ogle County. Single-copy price is $1 To subscribe, make a payment or discuss your delivery, call 815-732-6166, ext. 2518 from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday-Friday or send an e-mail to subscriptions@ oglecountynews.com. You also can subscribe online by going to oglecountynews.com and clicking on Subscribe. CLASSIFIED SALES 815-284-2222 OBITUARIES 815-732-6166, ext. 2591 ehinton@oglecountynews.com Deadline for obituaries is 2 p.m. Tuesday for Friday’s edition SEND NEWS news@oglecountynews.com General Manager Earleen Hinton 815-732-6166, ext. 2591 ehinton@oglecountynews.com Editor Jeff Helfrich 815-732-6166, ext. 2590 jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com Advertising Sales Lori Walker 815-625-3600, Ext. 2555 lwalker@oglecountynews.com Forreston Journal, Ogle County News and oglecountynews.com are a division of Shaw Media. Ogle County Newspapers also prints the Mt. Morris Times,

Oregon Republican Reporter, and Polo’s Tri-County Press. The FORRESTON JOURNAL (USPS No. 205-520) is published weekly by B.F. Shaw Printing Co., Shaw Media. Periodical postage paid at Forreston, Illinois. POSTMASTER Send address changes to FORRESTON JOURNAL, P.O. Box 237, Forreston, IL 61030. Phone 815-732-6166, ext. 2516. All rights reserved. Copyright 2020

jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com During the Ogle County Fair, Harlan Holm would arrive before it opened and stay well after it closes, often until 2 or 3 a.m. The next day, he’d come back and do it all over again. “That’s how important it was to him,” Brad Holm, Harlan’s son, said. “Several events were really important to him like the tractor pulls and the rodeo. Seeing all the people kept him going.” Harlan passed away at the age of 65 on Aug. 25. He lived in Oregon his entire life and farmed in the area. He was president of the Ogle County Fair Association for 12 years and served on the board for many years. The fair was Holm’s focus all year long. He also was active in Oregon Together and the Rockin’ River Fest, where he worked with Debbie Dickson. Dickson said Holm had great foresight, the ability to listen to discussion around a table, and then figure out the best way to serve the community going forward. Volunteering was a passion of Harlan’s. “I don’t think anybody could estimate the number of hours,” Dickson said. “I don’t think it’s even possible. He was first-in, last-out and doing things on his own. It’s thousands of hours.” Forreston veterinarian Tom Hughes worked with Harlan as the veterinarian at the fair for years. He says Harlan enjoyed working the parts of the fair for the youth, such as the 4-H competition. Hughes and Harlan were friends for 40 years. “He could always fix anything,” Hughes said. “He was a bright ray of sunshine for everyone. He has a great family. I don’t know how we’ll get along without him.” While the fair and volunteering were year-long focuses, Harlan still had work to do on the farm. Brad recalls being young and working with his dad. Harlan trusted him to drive tractors and farm equipment at an early age. Brad spent hours in the combine cab with Harlan. He helped with hay bails and feeding cows. Brad also recalls watching when Harlan was an active tractor puller in competitions in the late

ABOVE: Harlan Holm uses his Massey Ferguson tractor to pull a stalled demolition derby car out of the show area during the 2018 event. LEFT: Harlan reacts as his daughter Halley applauds after he was named Oregon Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 Volunteer of the Year. Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media 80s and early 90s. Despite a long list of responsibilities, Harlan’s children always got his time and attention “My sister and I played sports and he went to them with us,” Brad said. “He’d drive us to Sterling twice a day and to events in other states.” Harlan still has crops left in the ground that will need to be harvested this fall. What isn’t leased out will be harvested by other farmers in the area in a tribute to Harlan. Brad said a large number of farmers have reached out to help already.

“It’s everything to me,” Brad said. “It reaffirms what I know about him. He had the uncanny ability to make friends with everybody. In 65 years, he made the same amount of friends of someone in their 90s. He always helped people. It was never a no. It was a, ‘How can I help?’” Because of the pandemic, a traditional service for Holm will not be held. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given using a GoFundMe. That page has details for either contributing there or in other ways.

few businesses and by asking our friends and neighbors,” said Dave Starke, of the Oregon Knights of Columbus. “Most of our collected funds are donated to three area institutions: Village of Progress, Stouffer Terrace and the Oregon School District’s Special Ed Department. They have each received over $25,000

in the past 20 years.” Collection cans (and Tootsie Rolls) are located at Central Bank in Oregon at drive-up window or in lobby and also in Mt Morris at Paul Smith Accounting, at The Vet Clinic in Forreston, and at Oregon St Mary Parish Center office.

SPECIAL EVENT 2020 twist on Tootsie Roll Drive The 51 Annual Knights of Columbus Tootsie Roll Drive for the Intellectually Disabled will not be conducted as it has been in past years. “There will be no one standing in the intersection or in front of stores. We will attempt to collect donations from collections cans at a st

BUSINESS NEWS

Plant employs over 700; paid $34M in 2019 property taxes BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com The Byron Nuclear Plant will be closing in Sept. 2021, Exelon Generation announced in a press release on Aug. 27. The plant has around 700 regular employees. It was licensed to operate for another 20 years. The decision to close it has been “in the works for some time,” the press release said. Exelon also announced the closure of its Dresden plant in Morris, Illinois. The two plants face revenue shortfalls in the hundreds of millions of dollars because of declining energy prices and market rules that “allow fossil fuel plants to underbid clean resources”, the release said. “Although we know in our heads that shutting down the uneconomic Illinois plants is necessary to preserve even more jobs elsewhere, our hearts ache today for the thousands of talented women and men that have served Illinois families for more than a generation and will lose their jobs because of poorly conceived energy policies,” Christopher Crane, president and CEO of Exelon said in a press release. “But we are only about a

year away from shutdown and we need to give our people, the host communities, and regulators time to prepare.” Crane said Exelon recognizes that the decision comes as communities are still recovering from economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The press release said Exelon will continue its dialogue with policymakers on ways to prevent the closures. “To that end, we have opened our books to policymakers and will continue to do so for any lawmaker who wishes to judge the plants’ profitability,” Crane said. The plant took $4.5 billion to build. Construction work started in 1975, with the Unit 1 reactor coming online in 1985 and Unit 2 in 1987. Exelon Generation will file a deactivation notice in the weeks ahead and will be scaling back the refueling outage scheduled for the fall resulting in spending reductions of $50 million and the elimination of up to 1,4000 of the more than 2,000 mostly union jobs associated with the outages at Byron and Dresden. While retirement preparations are underway, employees will continue to operate the plants until they are decommissioned. “Exelon Generation will work to place affected plant employees at other Exelon facilities or help them transition to positions outside the company, wherever possible,” the press release said.

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

Exelon’s Byron Generating Station is located on German Church Road, south of Byron.

Assessment appeal lingers on Officials attempt to BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com The Byron Generating Station’s property value assessment has been under appeal without a decision from the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board since 2012. “The parties are about $300 million apart,” Ogle County Supervisor of Assessments Ron Kane said. “There was a hearing held 24 months ago. There’s no decision yet. It’s just in limbo right now. Throughout that period they got a license extension until 2046.” Kane is unsure of what Exelon’s closure announcement means, especially with the announcement press release having language about putting pressure on legislators. But if it closed, it would have an impact, Kane said. “If they close and decommission, if it was taken off the books, that’s $500 million in assessed value,” Kane said. “Then you’d assume tax rates would go up to compensate for reduced reserves of the local government. It’s 90 percent of Rockvale Township’s tax base.” Kane said the eventual result of a closure would likely be less money for taxing bodies rather than higher tax on individuals to keep them at their previous standard. He declined to speculate on what Exelon would be using the property for going forward if it closed. The value of the nuclear plant won’t change due to closure being the current

plan. It’s just a discussion point right now, Kane said. “It’s one of those ‘sit back and watch’ things,” Kane said. The planned closure also won’t factor into the ongoing appeals decision. “I would tell people to hold tight,” Kane said. “This could be a bumpy ride. But don’t make snap judgements. We’ll figure it all out.” Congressman Adam Kinzinger issued a statement last Thursday morning, calling the announcement a “gut punch” to the people of Illinois. He said he plans to work to take the Department of Justice fines on ComEd and re-appropriate them to the communities most affected by the plant closures. State Senator Brian Stewart also issued a statement regarding the proposed closure. Stewart wants to hear from all stakeholders about how Exelon’s closure would impact northern Illinois and said the plant’s value should never be underestimated by state leaders. “These are professional jobs with pretty specific sets of skills and if the Byron facility closes, many of the employees will need to move to other parts of the state or out of Illinois entirely,” Stewart said. “And we must consider the countless other businesses these employees support in their communities.”

measure impact of possible closure BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

The Byron plant has one of highest property tax bills in the United States annually. In 2019, the plant’s main real estate tax bill was $34.9 million. Ogle County and programs associated with it received over $3.7 million from that 2019 tax bill. The Oregon Park District received over $2.2 million. Ogle County Board Chairman John Finfrock said the nuclear plant makes up a third of the county’s tax money. He hopes negotiations between the plant and government will end with it staying open. The potential closure comes at an inopportune time for the county with the COVID-19 cutting budgets, Finfrock said. He believes prosperity in the county would lessen if a closure happens and that the plant makes up most of its non-agricultural economy. “It’s changed a lot of things,” Finfrock, 76, said. “The workforce that built that plant came from here. I’ve been here all my life and I’ve seen a lot of changes. This would be a big one.” Oregon Park District Executive Director Erin Folk said nuclear plant money makes up 79 percent of OPD’s tax revenue. She said she did not expect the decision but

See CLOSURE IMPACT, Page 4

OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

Exelon: Byron nuclear plant to close in 2021

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

COVID-19 UPDATE

Ogle County reports six new cases totaling 504 BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com The Ogle County Health Department reported six new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, Sept. 1 totaling 504. Recoveries of documented cases stand at 473, up 12 from the previous day’s report. There were three new cases to report Saturday, two on Sunday and 11 on Monday. Five deaths have been reported in 2020. Ages and locations of the individuals are not released. The Illinois Department of Public Health site said Tuesday that there are 227 cases in the 61068 zip code that includes Rochelle, Creston and White Rock. Stillman Valley’s zip code, 61084, has 18 cases in it according to the IDPH site. Byron’s zip code, 61010, has 63 cases. Davis Junction (61020) has 23 cases. The zip codes that house Oregon (61061) and Mt. Morris (61054) have 49 and 39 cases, respectively.

Polo’s zip code, 61064, has 26 cases in it. Leaf River (61047) has 10 cases. Carroll County is at a warning level for COVID-19 joining 30 counties at that level, including Bureau and Jo Daviess in the northwest part of the state. A county is considered to be at a warning level when two or more risk indicators are showing an increase. In the case of Carroll County, the rate of new cases per 100,000 people and the rate of positive tests exceeds the recommended rate. Carroll County, with a population of just less than 15,000, had 28 new cases last week.

• CLOSURE IMPACT Continued from Page 3 knew it was a possibility after it being discussed by Exelon for several years. Folk said she and other local leaders have reached out to local representatives and state senators to see what can be done. She said OPD has made decisions over 10 years to minimize the impact of a potential closure of the plant including a longterm capital fund and take care of existing infrastructure. “We were disappointed in the decision and will continue to evaluate what will happen,” Folk said. “A lot can happen between now and Sept. 2021. That tax revenue loss would be devastating for our district, city and county.” Byron taxing bodies make up the majority of Exelon’s tax bill for the plant. The Byron School District received just over $19.1 million. The Byron Fire District was earmarked for $2.54 million. The Byron Library District was listed as $862,695 and the Byron Forest Preserve received nearly $2.35 million. Byron School District Superintendent Buster Barton said his district is “very concerned” over the recent announcement and that the plant plays a significant ability in the schools’ ability to operate.

“It would have a devastating effect on us financially,” Barton said. Barton said no contingency planning has been done and the district is gathering information to share with its stakeholders as soon as possible. Approximately 75 percent of the district’s budget comes from the plant. Byron has 1,500 students in its district. Barton said all of the district’s future plans are being reviewed as it moves forward. The City of Byron doesn’t receive any tax money from the plant due to it not being within the city limits. But Mayor John Rickard said Thursday morning that the news was hard to take. “I didn’t know,” Rickard said. “Initially, it was a shock. And then a sense of disappointment. And then it was, ‘What do we have to do?’” Rickard said 1,200 people lived in Byron before the plant. Its population is now 3,800. He believes if the closure takes place, the city would undergo “significant” change. That’s why the city has been making efforts to diversify its economic base. Rickard is unsure if the plant’s announcement is set in stone or if it’s an effort to get a better tax advantage. He thinks it could be both. He is sure of his surprise at the news. “It thought this would be further down the road,” Rickard said.

BUILT LOCAL * WE DELIVER •L Lawn M Maintenance i •P Pressure W Washing hi • Spring/Fall Cleanup • Landscaping • Gutter Cleaning • Snow Removal • Free Estimates “When Perfection Matters” | Call Steve Hershberger, Owner

815-973-6215

WE SPECIALIZE IN PORTABLE STRUCTURES!

SM-ST1812159

“Your Next Fence”

Your best option in Agricultural, Residential, and Commercial fences. Fast, friendly service and quality workmanship. Call now to schedule your Fall project! Serving Lee, Ogle, Whiteside & Carroll Counties and beyond

STOP & SEE OUR DISPLAY MODELS Large or Small, You Name It, We Design It, We Build It...YOU LIKE IT! CALL FOR A FREE LITERATURE PACKET

779-861-3542

SM-ST1811958

SM-ST1812143

3500 S. CHANA RD., CHANA, IL 61015

LOCAL HISTORY

BY BETTY OBENDORF Curator, Polo Historical Society Kenneth and I have watched on TV for a number of weeks now the unrest in our nation. The looting, burning, and rioting have left us speechless as we have seen individuals say in front of the cameras how they were entitled to do these things. I kept thinking of the people whose businesses were gone and the people who live in these areas must be very frightened. But all the cities seemed far away and our community was very calm. Then last week all that changed when the news media suddenly started talking about Kenosha. We came to life immediately and we were amazed how quickly things can change. The next day we called our daughter Krista since this is her community. Not only was this her community but the neighborhood where she lived when she went to Kenosha for the first time. She has been most upset. It was a quiet neighborhood with

a lovely park where we burned and there was lootturned near her apartment. ing in the downtown area. She lived in the home of an The furniture store that elderly lady. Krista liked so well was The upstairs had been burned to the ground on made into two furnished Monday night and other apartments and was filled businesses were looted and with antiques. set a blaze in the uptown Those were the days area. when I was doing furniSoon the National Guard Betty Obendorf ture refinishing and I could was called, but by the time imagine how lovely those they arrived at eight in the pieces of furniture could be evening and before they with the paint gone. had gotten organized, another bad The people were a mix of a little night or two had taken place. bit of all ethnic groups and the shops The old high school in the center had been there for years. of town had all of its windows broMany had been passed on down ken out. Krista had always referred to their children. Krista loved those to it as Thelma Hedrick’s high little shops and later returned to buy school since Thelma had gone to furniture and I believe a computer. school there. Late that afternoon when it all Krista would attend meetings at started, Krista had a friend return- Bradford although Krista taught at ing from Milwaukee and she came Tremper High School. upon long lines of cars headed south Then during all the melee, the vigwith their license plates covered. ilante group arrived from all over She instantly knew something and they presented other problems was wrong and she soon found out as they attempted to take the law where they were going. into their own hands to protect propThe first night on Sunday was erty. deadly with 50 cars in a used car lot They even wanted to be deputized

by the Chief of Police. Of course he was not in favor of such a thing. How could you have the “old wild west” mixed into all of this? Before law and order was restored, lives were lost that can never be replaced. Senseless killings in just a short time. Out of town vehicles were confiscated loaded with gas cans that contained gas. They also were packed with “helmets, gas masks, protective vests, illegal fireworks, and suspected controlled substances” according to a police report. Eventually a news media had to acknowledge the civil unrest in Kenosha although they have kept silent for many weeks about what is going on in our country. They called it a “mostly peaceful protest.” As Krista has related to me what has gone on in her community, I wondered in my mind what part of it has been “mostly peaceful.” In all those details, I find it hard to come up with something peaceful!

Are you ready to watch

FOOTBALL?

Kick Back & Relax on Recliners, Sectionals, Sofas, Love Seats, and more!

LOW PRICE GUARANTEE! Over 60 Recliners in stock!

FREE DELIVERY & REMOVAL OF OLD FURNITURE SPECIAL ORDER FABRIC AVAILABLE

FINANCING AVAILABLE Northwest IL Largest Furniture, Mattress & Appliance Dealer

SM-ST1812544

90 Days Same as Cash.

FREE LAYAWAY

20 E. Stephenson St., Downtown Freeport • 815-235-4911 Mon-Fri 9-6; SAT 9-4 • ritewayfreeport.com

Furniture & Appliances

OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

Violence, unrest hits home with Kenosha relative

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

LOCAL HISTORY

Late Oregon resident reflects on days gone by Editor’s note: Otto Dick, Oregon has researched the people, places and events important in the Oregon area’s history for the Ogle County Historical Society. The following is one of a series of the articles he has written.

THIS STORY WAS WRITTEN IN 1991 BY THE LATE CAROL MOORE Do you remember going to town on Saturday night with your folks? You got to go to the movies. It cost 10 cents to get in and all the popcorn in the whole world for a nickel. Cheapest baby-sitting service in town. Nobody worried about dirty old men then. No self respecting dirty old man would be caught dead in a movie house with 200 screaming kids. Do you remember Tom Mix, the Lone Ranger, Gene Autry, Buck Rogers serials that went on forever? Then watch it kid, you’re middle aged. While you were doing your thing, your parents would have parked in their favorite place (if some pushy up-start hadn’t gotten there first) and were busy doing their thing. It was never called anything—but, if it had to have a name, it would have been called “people watching.” Everybody did it on Saturday night. Catch up on the local news, check out the new babies, sort of a clearing house for information. Crops, recipes, politics, some shopping, just plain gossip too.

ABOVE LEFT: The Liberty magazine cost a nickel. TOP RIGHT: Tom Mix, the Lone Ranger, Gene Autry, Buck Rogers, all had serials. Sure beat television—telewhat? In those days it was radio; the Inner Sanctum,” “Mr. District Attorney,” and on Saturday morning “Let Pretend! “Cream of Wheat, it’s so good to eat, yes we have it everyday.” You remember that!. After the show, a stop at the ice cream store and everyone got their turn to name the flavor of the week. The whole family watched as the man “hand packed” a quart to take home. Hey—everyone watched, if he didn’t really pack it in, he heard about it. One “he was John Sweeney. He had his own ice

cream making machine and was really proud of his whole operation, until the year a bunch of kids stole an outhouse and propped it up in front of his establishment near his handmade sign, “Proud of doing business in the same location for 40 years.” This was the era of highcuts with a pocketknife in the side. Corduroy knickers that whistled when you walked, 17 cent milkshakes, malts were 23 cents. If you were one of those rotten kids that smoked, Mavels and Wings were 10 cents a pack. All of the stores were open on Christmas Eve until midnight or until the last farmer left town, whichever came first. After the stores closed on Christmas Eve, Harold and Lew Moore used to take leftover toys and deliver them anonymously to needy families. What a time in which to grow up. In the Spring all the kids picked asparagus before school in the morning, working alongside the German P.O.W.s from Camp Grant. They earned a huge 35 cents for each 40 pound box. Liberty magazine cost a nickel, Collier and Life were a dime, heck, the Chicago Tribune was only three cents. Remember bank night at the movies? Free dishes, too. How about an orange crate and taking wheels off roller skates to make a scooter. What, a scooter? It was a good time to grow up, we believed in God, America and the capitalistic system.

READING MATTERS

Let’s look at the challenges of reading online In this year of the COVID-19 virus, back to school is filled with uncertainties and unknowns. Some will be using remote learning options again this fall. Many of you spent time with your children working online last spring as teachers worked hard to keep the learning going. This form of learning is not easy for all students no matter their age. Whether your child is back at school this fall or learning at home, chances are they will still be asked to read some materials online. For this month we will look at some of the challenges of reading online. In general, young people are very skilled at using technology. However, we should not assume that they know all about using technology to learn or that they have the skills required for online learning. Both online reading and online learning in general are guided more by the reader than by the teacher. This requires strong independent work habits and time management to make sure work is completed and done on time. Understanding that students, especially younger ones, will need support as they participate in online learning is a first step. I am sure the challenge for families is finding the time for someone to sit by each child to help them as they work through online assignments. I do not have answers to all of this, but perhaps the

COMMENTARY Mary Gardner Reading Specialist

following considerations will help in some way. Very often we read online to seek information. That makes it like reading nonfiction text. Reading nonfiction texts of any kind, online or offline, requires different skills than reading fiction. Nonfiction texts are generally packed with information and facts with specific content vocabulary. It may help to break down a reading into smaller sections. Some students may need to take written notes of the information read. Some may need support with difficult vocabulary. Some online articles do allow the reader to click on an unknown word for a definition and pronunciation that can help. A big difference between printed text and online reading is that online reading is non-linear. This means there is a series of hyperlinks through multiple windows rather than reading from beginning to end. I know I can get lost sometimes in a series of

links to other locations and have a difficult time getting back to where I need to be. Some students may need help with this at first with someone sitting beside them to talk through the best way to work with this kind of text. Perhaps there is an older sibling, or an older student who might be able to help. Finally, online reading requires the reader to do something with the information read. It very often means being able to ask appropriate questions about the text being read, and being able to evaluate, synthesize and communicate that information in some way. These are higher level thinking skills that students develop over time. They often need the support of someone to talk to about what was read to sort through and fine the most important information. Being safe on the internet is always a concern. Eventually we want our students to be able to determine for themselves if a source is reliable. These areas also require some supervision, especially for younger students. Remember that the many of the challenges presented by the coronavirus are things that no one has ever had to face before. We are all human and doing the best we can. Be sure to reach out to your child’s teacher or the school for help. Just because the learning is online does not mean it is easy.

SPORTS COLUMN

hen I first read the Byron Nuclear may be closing in September of 2021, my mind harkened back to September of 1976. That was when I first started dating the woman who would eventually become my wife. For the next few years, I would drive from Rochelle to her home in rural White Rock, which was just a few miles from the construction site of the nuclear plant. With fascination, I would look to the west and see the huge project raising up from the ground. There had never been anything like it ever in Ogle County. Initially, the biggest concern among local residents was radiation, as little was known about nuclear energy at the time. Fears of radiation poisoning were unfounded. A far greater result of having the twin towers of nuclear reactors in our back yard was the tremendous impact it would soon be having on the local economy. I don’t think anyone realized how much money would be flowing our way or the way the town of Byron was transformed from a nothing-special little river town to what it is today. Certainly folks in the outlying area remember jealousy and resentment over all the tax dollars put into the Byron school system and the advantages it would have over other schools. That mindset has died down substantially, at least I think it has, and everyone seems to get along with

COMMENTARY Andy Colbert

the status quo. Never knew if this was true or not, but the rumor going on for awhile was that Byron had so much money to run their schools that heated coils were being installed in the sidewalks so they didn’t have to be shoveled. Just a lot of stuff like that. In the late 1980s, youth and high-school sport rivalries would began to heat up more, as Byron became a juggernaught because of their ‘high-fallutin’ school district. Parents who wanted the best for their kids, began to move into the district, with subdivisions sprouting up all over. In turn, those families with a keen interest in academic and athletic excellence help create an stronger environment of competitiveness. Reflecting back over the 30-plus years of the nuke plant having an influence on the area, the increased competition has been good for sports. Though competition can be bring out the

worst and best in some of us, it has created an interesting dynamic between Byron, Oregon and Stillman Valley, with the common denominator being a nuclear plant sitting in the middle of all three towns. There is no way Byron would have ever reached the lofty athletic reputation it has without Commonwealth Edison selecting a huge plot of land on German Church road to build on. Personally, I relish the fact ComEd located here and Byron has reaped the primary benefits. I have met so many good people from Byron, many of which may not have been there had it not been for the “plant” as the workers call it. That employment carry-over effect has extended well beyond Byron into all corners of Ogle County. Sure, Byron got the biggest piece of the pie by a long shot, but we all came out ahead on the deal. Here in Oregon, I’m thankful that opportunistic citizens beat Byron to the punch on establishing park district boundaries within those 1,782-acres the nuclear plant sits on. Besides the quality of life, it’s immensely helped Oregon athletics because of facilities and recreational activities. Whether or not the nuclear plant stays open and what will be the economic fallout if it does close? Two very difficult concepts to wrap one head’s around, but one thing is certain - it has been a great ride so far.

OREGON LIBRARY Now Open for Browsing Come in to pick out your own books. We ask that you sanitize when you come in and please remember to wear your mask. To best provide a safe environment we are limiting the number of patrons in the library at a time. Curbside Pick Up will continue indefinitely, but if you wear a mask you may enter the building to pick up your materials, use the computers or copy items. The building is open regular hours.

You can put holds on items in our Library through our catalog or by calling the library at 815-732-2724 Please continue to return all materials in the outside book drop that is open 24/7. All library materials are quarantined for at least 7 days and then checked in. You will still see these items on your account and still receive notification of overdue until the quarantine period is over. We are fine free, so you will not be charged for overdue items. However,

materials that are not returned will result in replacement costs. This bill is generated after materials are 21 days overdue. As long as materials are returned with no damage you will not be charged the replacement fee. Read More ~ Worry Less! It’s Here! The Oregon Public Library is thrilled to announce the opening of a StoryWalk ® at Oregon Park West! What is a StoryWalk ® ?

An eye exam is a good idea, especially if things are starting to look a little fuzzy around the edges.

It is a book that has been disassembled, laminated and presented page by page to promote reading and exercise on a trail, bike path, or in store windows and as you stroll, you are directed to the next page in the story. StoryWalk® was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT in 2007, and developed in collaboration with the Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition and the Kellogg Hubbard Library. Our hope See OREGON LIBRARY, Page 8

• Full Service Optical Lab • Contact Lenses

Dr. Kurt K. Nelson Optometrist

629 N. Galena Avenue, Dixon, Illinois • 815-284-6866 Member of the American Optometric Association. Therapeutic Licensed.

SM-ST1796665

(including bifocal & specialty lenses)

• Comprehensive Eye Health Exams • Diagnosis/Treatment of Eye Diseases • Great Selection of Eyeglass Frames

Northwest Eyecare • 815.732.3121

314 W. Washington St. • Oregon, IL www.northwesteyecare.com

OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

Exelon announcement sparks memories of 1976

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

FORRESTON LIBRARY Library Closure and Appointments While the library is still closed, anyone needing to send a fax, make copies, or use a computer may call the library and schedule an appointment to come in. Anyone can call or message the library to schedule a time to come in to browse and check out materials. Everyone over the age of 2 must wear a mask. Please call the library for more information or if you have any questions.

Pick up times for curbside pickup will be scheduled when you place a request. Interlibrary loans have resumed so you may also request items from other libraries. Due to quarantine policies, delivery may take longer than usual. Please call, Facebook message, or email us at forrestonpubliclibrary@ gmail.com for assistance or if you have any questions. Voter Registration Voter registration is now available at

Curbside Pickup

• OREGON LIBRARY Continued from Page 7 is that this passive program can be used by all ages, groups, families and the Oregon School District. Thanks to the generosity of Etnyre Foundation and collaboration with Oregon Park District, the Oregon Public Library is presenting its first story, A Color of His Own by Leo Lionni, on the path beginning at the main parking lot. Yoga With Jennifer is Back! - Start-

ing Sept. 12 Saturday mornings at 9:30 a.m.- only 5 spots available. Registration required 815-732-2724 Illinois Cemetery Safari - Saturday, Sept. 12 at 1 p.m. Join us for a slideshow journey around our state to see the final resting places of famous, infamous and obscure people and animals. You’ll see unique headstones and burial sites and visit the graves of Burl Ives, Chester Gould, Kathy Sh-Boom and Dorothy Louise Gage. Don’t know some of these names?

the library. Just call for an appointment to come in and get registered. You will need two forms of identification, one of which has your current residence address, and you must be registered before Oct. 6 to vote in the Nov. 2 election. eBooks/WiFi As always, you may still enjoy eBooks through Axis 360 and Biblioboard. If you would like more information on creating an account, please let us know and

Join us to find out. Registration required at 815-732-2724. Library Book Clubs The 2WBC meets Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 12:30 p.m. to discuss The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz. The Afternoon Book Club meets Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 1 p.m. to discuss This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger. Books on Tap Book Club meets on Thursday, Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. at Cork n Tap to discuss The Grace Year by Kim Liggett.

we’ll be happy to help you get set up. Internet can be accessed outside the library by connecting to the WiFi. No password is required. Library Updates Like our Facebook page to stay up to date with the most current information on our plans and activities. Contact the library by email, forrestonpubliclibrary@ gmail.com, Facebook messenger, or call 815-938-2624 for more information..

DNA and Genealogy Research: Simplified – Sept. 22 at 2 p.m. via ZOOM DNA testing has become a popular topic. Did you get your results and now you don’t know what to do with them? This program will discuss the different DNA tests and compare the major testing companies. Learn to use your genealogy skills to unravel the mysteries of your DNA results. Join our Zoom call with Steve Szabados, Genealogist. Register at 815-7322724. Registration required.

MAJOR MA JOR LEAGUE LEAGUE

SERVICE. SERVICE. From backyards to big leagues, count on me From backyards bigyou leagues, count on me to be there. I canto help get the coverage you need Iand discounts to be there. canthe help you get you the deserve. coverage you

need and the discounts you deserve.

Stephens Insurance & Financial Services Inc Stephens Insurance & Financial Services Inc Scott Stephens, Agent Agent Scott Stephens, 500 Gale St 500 Gale St Oregon, IL Insurance 61061 Stephens & Financial Services Inc Bus: 815-732-6690 Scott Stephens, Agent Oregon, IL 61061 500 Gale St Oregon, IL 61061 Bus: 815-732-6690 Bus: 815-732-6690

rehab, recover, return home. www.simplythefinest.net

P090127.1

State Farm, Home Oﬃce, Bloomington, IL

BERTOLET LIBRARY

Wednesday WhoDunIt The library has a â€˜Wednesday WhoDunItâ€™ book discussion group. Itâ€™s Readerâ€™s Choice month: Pick any mystery book to read thisÂ month and be ready to share your recommendation at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23. We will meet outside if weather permits; if not, the discussion will be held socially-distanced in the library meeting room. Masks will be required, bring a friend.

No registration necessary.

choose from, one project per family. There will be a craft project and a painting project. Crafts are perfect for kids 3 and up; painting projects are best for kids 6 and up. Have a family member 16 years or older available to assist kids under the age of six with their project.

Family Story Time We now have time slots available for families to sign up for a private Story Time session with our new Youth Director, Jana Schlukebir. These sessions are held weekly and will be 20-30 minutes long. Each week will include a story and an art project. Here is what to expect: Registration is required to reserve your time slot each week. Register through the Sign Up Genius link on our website,Â bertoletmemoriallibrary.org/Â or call 815-738-2742.Â Masks will be required for everyone three and older who is medically able to wear one, and when you show up for your session, we will do a quick temperature check. We will be outside when possible or in the back room when the weather

requires it. Dress your kids in clothes that are appropriate for the weather and that can get messy. There will be two projects for you to

days. The library buildingÂ will be open for patrons to come in, browse, and check out items. We will continue to have curbside delivery available if you prefer

to not enter the building or are unable to wear a mask.Â You can place an order by calling 815-946-2713, emailingÂ library@ pololibrary.org, or through yourPrairieCat/Encore account.

Amos shows off his starfish in the ocean after listening to Miss Jana read a story about summertime on the beach at Bertolet Library in Leaf River.

New Releases Adult Fiction: Whirlwind by Janet Dailey, Bitter Pill by Fern Michaels Large Print: The Friendship List by Susan Mallery Young Adult Fiction: The Opposite of Falling Apart by Micah Good Juvenile Fiction: The Wind Called My Name by Mary Louise Sanchez Childrenâ€™s Fiction: Yasmin the Friend by Saadia Faruqi, Race For the Ring with PJ Masks

POLO LIBRARY Operating Hours The Polo Library is open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.. The library is closed on Sun-

MEGAN MATTERED TO SO MANY

In Loving Memory

Megan (Swaziek) Wells

Precious Life Taken on 6/24/2016 REMEMBERING YOU IS EASY - WE DO IT EVERY DAY MISSING YOU IS A HEARTACHE THAT NEVER GOES AWAY

WHAT WAS DONE IN THE DARK WILL BE BROUGHT INTO THE LIGHT SM-ST1812554

THE EVIDENCE TELLS THE TRUTH

Masks are requiredÂ for patrons to come into the library. We have disposable masks available to purchase for $1 See POLO LIBRARY, Page 10

9 OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com â€˘ Friday, September 4, 2020

Closed Labor Day Bertolet Memorial Library will have the parking lot seal-coated over Labor Day weekend.Â The library will be open Saturday, Sept. 5 from 8 a.m. to noon. Patrons will be asked to park on Main St., as the lot will be closed to public access. Bertolet Memorial Library will be closed on Monday, Sept. 7, in observance of Labor Day.

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

MT. MORRIS LIBRARY Curbside Pickup, Inter Library Loans Curbside pickup is during the hours of 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. Starting Sept. 5 we will again be open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hours are subject to change based on demand and public health. We will notify of all changes as they come. Inter-library loans are available. Mt. Morris patrons can place holds through the catalog or by calling or emailing. Update your contact information if needed. Library staff is quarantining all returned items for a period of time. Recently returned materials may remain on your account longer than usual. When checked in, library staff will backdate materials. No overdue fines will be charged. New library cards: patrons can call or email the library to renew or receive new library cards. Contact the library at 815734-4927 or mmlib@mtmorris-il.org Browsing by Appointment We are now taking appointments for people to come into the library to choose books. Be aware that there are rules and limits. Contact the library to make an appointment. Please follow the guidelines. You will be required to wear a mask and use hand sanitizer upon entering the building. Children will not be allowed in the library unaccompanied. Consideration will be given to special circumstances, but you must contact the library to discuss that with staff. We ask that patrons make their selections in a timely manner. Loitering is discouraged. Computer Use by Appointment We are allowing patrons to use the computers by appointment. If you would

• POLO LIBRARY Continued from Page 9 if you need one. We have two computers available for patron use that are over 6 feet away from each other and cleaned between uses. There is a one hour time limit for the use of either computer. If you’d like to make sure there is a computer available, please call 815-946-2713 to reserve a computer. You can also fax, copy and print as needed. Library Closed for Labor Day Polo Library will be closed Monday, Sept. 7. We will still be open Sept. 5 and 8.

like to reserve a computer please call the library. Please follow the guidelines for computer users. Only one person per computer. Please do not bring children with you. Masks must be worn in the library. You will be asked to use hand sanitizer when you enter the building before getting on the computer. You are here for the computer use only. You will not be allowed to stay all day. You are allowed one hour unless approved by the director for job training, job search, or class work. Honor JoLynn Ward At the end of the school year, a number of long-time employees retired. At the end of a normal year, there would have been parties and recognition ceremonies, but 2020 is not a normal year. JoLynn Ward has been an instructional aide with the Oregon School district for a long time. She was in Mt. Morris at the elementary school until the fire, and went with her students to Oregon. In the time I have known her, she has been an instructional aide for the English Language Learners. For the library, she has been a Trustee for a long time, helped when the new addition was being built, and is currently our board secretary. Mrs. Ward, as the children know her, has spent her time recently making masks for people in the community, including library staff. We want to honor her in her retirement, and for her good works. A fund has been established in her name. We will be purchasing library materials in her honor. If you would like to join us in thanking her for her service to the children of the district and her work in the community, you may send a donation with the notation that it is in her honor. Coffee with a Cop, 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, weather permitting Library Pavilion - Join us for an outdoor, socially distant Coffee with a Cop. If the weather is questionable, please call 815946-2713 before leaving home to check on the status of this program. 2020 Outdoor Concert Series, 6 p.m. Sept. 12, Polo Library Pavilion We’ll be wrapping up our 2020 Outdoor Concert Series with Lyle Grobe and the Rhythm Ramblers, playing classic country music. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on. You’re welcome to bring a picnic to eat while you enjoy the music. There is plenty of room to practice safe social distancing.

$15,000 Emergency Mortgage Assistance (EMA) Program Are you struggling to pay your rent due to COVID-19?

Applications will be accepted August 24th through September 4th

To be eligible:

Your household income before March 1, 2020 was within the allowable limits.

You, or an adult member of your household, suffered a loss of income due to COVID-19.

You missed a mortgage on or after March 1, 2020

Don’t wait, apply today at: ema.ihda.org Any questions, call: (Local) 312.883.2720 (Toll Free) 888.252.1119

$15,000 Programa de Asistencia Emergencia Hipotecaria (EMA) ¿Está luchando con su habilidad de hacer sus pagos hipotecarious causado por COVID-19?

Aplicaciones serán aceptado desde 24 de agosto hasta el 4 de septiembre.

Ser eligible:

Si su ingreso familiar antes de 1 de marzo 2020 fue dentro de los limites admisibles.

Si Ud. o un miembro adulto de su hogar sufrió una pérdida de ingreso causado por COVID-19.

Si Ud. no pudo pagar su cuenta hipotecaria desde el 1 de marzo 2020.

No espere, aplique hoy día: ema.ihda.org Si tuviera preguntas, favor de llamar: (Local) 312.883.2720 (llamada gratuita) 888.252.1119

CRIME WATCH

Leaf River man is also charged with disseminating porn BY KATHLEEN A. SCHULTZ Shaw Media FREEPORT – Nationally known Abraham Lincoln impersonator George Buss of Freeport is facing felony charges of possessing child pornography video and patronizing a prostitute. Buss, 63, who has been portraying Honest Abe for more than three decades at events in the region as well as nationwide, has been under investigation since February. He was arrested Aug. 28 by Freeport police and is being held in Stephenson County Jail on $200,000 bond, Freeport police said in a news release. Tyler Dotson, 22, of Leaf River also was arrested in the investigation and is charged with two counts of disseminating child pornography

George A. Buss

George Buss in his Abraham Lincoln attire.

Tyler A. Dotson

video and prostitution. He also is being held on $200,000 bond. Buss has performed as Lincoln for 34 years across the country, including yearly at the reading of the Gettysburg Address at Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania and once before at the Nation-

al Archives. Buss and Stephen Douglas reenactor Tim Connors were to hold their annual portrayal of the 1858 Lincoln-Douglas debate last Saturday in Freeport. That the event was planned online this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The crimes George Buss stands accused of are heinous. I denounce him in the strongest of terms,” state Rep. Andrew Chesney, R-Freeport, said in a news release. “My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. May their voices be heard and may justice be quickly served.”

Now Available!

New Feature We are excited to announce that Mobile Deposits are now available in the UNION Savings BANK Mobile App. Deposit checks from anywhere using the camera on your smartphone! Download the UNION Savings BANK Mobile Banking App from the Google Play Store or Apple store today!

Farming can be a That is why we make Beau Bunders 815.645.2005

Tom Hughes 815.645.2023

Peggy Kruger 815.645.2009

www.stillmanbank.com

Skip the trip to the bank.

Safe and secure.

Make deposits whenever it's convenient for you.

Free! There is no charge to use Mobile Deposit.

Mobile Deposit is not available to customers with business accounts. Message and data rates may apply from your cellular carrier.

Member FDIC 2 W. Main Street Mt. Morris, IL 61054 Other locations: Rockford . Freeport . Belvidere

Like us on Facebook Phone Number: 815.734.4116 www.unionsavingsbank.com

OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

Impersonator accused of possessing child porn

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

NEW BUSINESS

Permit recommended for Better Place Forests Memorial forest to sell trees to place cremated remains; 50 acres proposed for first site in the midwest BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com Ogle County may soon have a non traditional resting place near one of its most popular state parks. The county regional planning commission recommended a special use permit at its Aug. 20 meeting for Better Place Forests, a business that plans to purchase just over 50 acres of forest along the eastern banks of the Rock River for a conservation memorial forest, where customers can purchase a tree dedication for the exclusive right to rest cremains there. The land is located at 1950 N. River Road, just north of the Lorado Taft Field Campus located in Lowden State Park. In June, Better Place Forests presented their concept to the Ogle County Planning & Zoning Department for their review. Staff advised that a Conservation Memorial Forest is a unique enough land use to warrant the County’s Special Use Permit procedure and BPF may operate on site with such a permit. BPF’s request for a Special Use Permit received an unanimous recommendation for approval from the Ogle County Regional Planning Commission on Aug. 20. A hearing before the Ogle County Zoning Board of Appeals is scheduled in September, with a final decision by the County Board to follow. The recommendation came with a condition that the property’s current tax rate won’t be lowered under BPF’s ownership. “At Better Place Forests, our mission is to inspire everyone to leave a meaningful legacy for the planet and the people we love,” Chief Real Estate Officer Mark Kehke said in an email. “Our company has built America’s first conservation memorial forest, a sustainable alternative to cemeteries for those who choose cremation.” Better Place Forests has two sites in California and one in Arizona. The site in Oregon would be its first in the midwest. The site was chosen due to wanting to preserve the land and its importance to the river’s ecological corridor, Kehke said. BPF is currently under contract to purchase the property and is working through land use approvals necessary to operate on site. If the business is able to move forward in Oregon, there will only be “minor site improvements,” Kehke said. “These will include the renovation of the existing home for use as a visitor center, a small parking area, and restrooms,” Kehke said. “We intend to use design concepts and materials that are native to the Oregon area in order to enhance the beauty of, and cause minimal disruption to, the natural forest. It is our commitment to protect this oak forest along Illinois’ Rock River.” Kehke said in a recent survey BPF found that

ABOVE: The proposed site for the Better Place Forests is located along the Rock River, north of Lowden State Park, along River Road. BELOW LEFT: Better Place Forests opened its third memorial forest just north of Flagstaff, Arizona. The site includes views of open meadows and ancient groves of quaking aspens. BELOW RIGHT: This is the visitor center located in Better Place Forest’s Mendocino Coast in Point Arena, California.

cremation has become more popular than a traditional burial for nearly half of Americans. Over 60 percent of respondents expressed interest in an alternative burial option offered through cremation. Kehke called BPF’s price point “approachable” and said that its average package is less than half the cost of a traditional burial. Gia DeBartolo, a BPF representative said at the regional planning meeting that a memorial tree would cost from $5,000 to $10,000. As far as the economic impact of the business, Better Place Forests plans to hire a staff of local forest stewards and arborists.

“Additionally, we expect to spend millions of dollars on facility construction and ongoing forest maintenance with local contractors,” Kehke said. “This project will provide ongoing work in forestry and land management over decades to come while further protecting the forest along the Rock River corridor which provides critical ecosystem services.” Kehke hopes to receive a permit to operate in early 2021. If that happens, the first “milestone” would be to open the forest for online tours. That has become important due to the pandemic, which could cause delays in opening the forest for in-person visits.

OGLE COUNTY SHERIFF

Aug. 26 Israel Nava, 26, of Rochelle was arrested at 9:54 a.m. for improper cannabis container after deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 600 block of South 7th Street in Rochelle for an equipment violation. Nava was released from the scene with a notice to appear in court. James Phillips, 33, of Sterling was arrested for an outstanding Ogle County warrant. Phillips had a full cash bond of $7,139 and was scheduled to appear in

court at a later date. Aug. 27 Xavier Davison, 27, of Chicago was arrested at 6:23 p.m. for driving while license revoked after deputies stopped a black Ford Fusion on Interstate 39 and Ritchie Road for speeding. Davison was transferred to the Ogle County Jail. Aug. 28 Stacey Bielema was arrested on an outstanding Ogle County warrant. Bielema’s full cash bond was set at $1,672.77 pending a court appearance. Trisha Dempewolf was arrested on

an outstanding Ogle County warrant. Dempewolf’s full cash bond was set at $4,124 pending a court appearance. Erika Senatre, 29, of Rockford was arrested for driving while license suspended. Senatre was arrested by deputies on Illinois 251 after being stopped for speeding. Senatre was released on a I-Bond and will appear in court at a later date. Aug. 29 Melissa Wall was arrested for disorderly conduct after deputies were dispatched to Sledgehammer’s Pub at 1450 N. Illinois 2 for a noise complaint of

loud music. Wall is the pub manager of Sledgehammer’s. Wall was released on an I-Bond and will appear in court at a later date. Aug. 30 Melissa Wall was arrested for disorderly conduct after deputies were dispatched to Sledgehammer’s Pub at 1450 N. Illinois 2 for a noise complaint of loud music. Wall is the pub manager of Sledgehammer’s. Wall was released on an I-Bond and will appear in court at a later date.

PROPERTY TRANSFERS These Ogle County property transfers recorded week of Aug. 21-27. Warranty Deeds • Davidson of Creston, Inc. to Hadley R. Forbes, 310 N. Prairie St., Creston, $74,994. • Jennifer A. Petersen to Robert

and Caryl Rhoads, 4799 Center Road, Rochelle, $220,000. • Manuelita and Joe D. Rodriguez to Askvig Boys Construction LLC, 308 N. Jeffery Ave., Rochelle, $116,000. • First Choice Rentals LLC to Dennis J., Mary Katherine and Timothy R. Jacobs, 1780 E. Acorn Ave., Byron, $163,328.

• Eugene R. and Janice Cook to Booby J. and Kristy K. Roberson, 309 W. Willis Ave., Rochelle, $137,000. • Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to First Choice Rentals, one Parcel in Byron Township, $140,000. • Cash D. and Angela P. Reichling to Matthew S. Dunham, 5210 E. Ashelford Drive, Byron, $386,500. • Matthew S. Dunham to Michael and

Leah Thresher, 1175 Old Hunter Run, Byron, $186,580. • Louis E. and Evelyn L. Spaniel to Denis M. Long, 305 N. Scott Ave., Rochelle, $119,900. • Austin B. and Logan K. Glendenning to Kyle M. and Faith J. Groenhagen, 7653 E. Hales Corner Road, Stillman Valley, $230,220. See PROPERTY TRANSFERS, Page 14

OREGON POLICE Oregon Police Chief Shawn Melville reports the following police activity. Aug. 24 Keith A. Howells, 49, was arrested at 2:29 p.m. on an international warrant out of Great Britain. Howells was transported to the Ogle County Jail. Philip A. Giuffre, 59, of Oregon, was issued a citation at 9:33 p.m. for speeding, 56 mph in a 40 mph zone. This violation occurred in the 100 block of E. Washington Street. Aug. 25 Jesus M. Rodriguez, 49, of Milan, was issued a citation at 7:34 a.m. for speeding, 52mph in a 30mph zone. This violation occurred in the 100 block of N. Daysville Road. Aug. 26 At 7:47 p.m., police were dispatched to a fight in progress that was occurring in the 100 block of S. 2nd Street. The offender, Alexander L. Pierce, 25, of Oregon, had left the scene. Upon locating Pierce, he was taken into custody, charged with battery, and transported to the Ogle County Jail. Aug. 28

Kelli J. Scruggs, 39, of Oregon, was issued a citation at 11:24 p.m. for disobeying a traffic control device. This violation occurred at the intersection of 5th and Monroe Streets. Aug. 29 Stacey K. Bielema, 41, of Mt. Morris, was arrested at 12:40 a.m. on an outstanding Ogle County warrant for failure to appear. Bielema was transported to the Ogle County jail. One parking citation and three verbal warning issued Aug. 24-30. Please note: Any arrests listed are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. General calls for service through dispatch Aug. 24-30 Checking a Subject / Vehicle...........2 Citizen Complaints.............................14 Citizen Assist / Civil Problem...........12 Assist EMS / Other Dept...................8 Disturbance / Dom Battery..............5 911 Hang-up / Open Line...................5 Lockout Vehicle / Building................1 Alarm Response..................................1 Ordinance Violations..........................7 Traffic Stops........................................11

We now have several Covid-19 test available! Appointments required

Offering thousands of tests at prices you can afford. We are here to help Mon.-Fri 7am-4pm

WE ACCEPT MEDICARE & MEDICAID

832 N Galena Ave., Dixon 815-677-9384 www.valulab-dixon.com

SM-ST1810592

13 OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle reports the following activity.

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT Ellis Paxton Fry Tabitha and Cale Fry of Polo are the parents of a son born July 25, 2020, at FHN Memorial Hospital in

Freeport. He is welcomed by one brother, Harlan Fry, 3. Maternal grandparents are Lloyd Duncan of Mt. Morris and Ron and Jane Griswold of Nachusa.

Paternal grandparents are Larry Fry of Oregon and Gloria Fry of Polo. Great-grandparents are Betty Duncan of Mt. Morris and Bob Spratt of Oregon.

ZONING PERMITS The following Ogle County zoning certificates were issued in July. Eric Meier, section 4, Marion Township, residential accessory building. Larry Saathoff, section 11, Taylor Township, addition to residential accessory building. Tyler Carls, section 8, Flagg Township, cement patio. Kenneth Stice, section 21, Pine Rock Township, replace residential accessory building destroyed by tornado. Michael McLaws, section 13, Grand Detour, residential accessory building. Tim and Angela Danielson, section 21, Rockvale Township, above-ground pool. Josh Schacht, section 16, Flagg Township, in-ground swimming pool. Anthony & Veronica Cammuca, section 16, Flagg Township, open, unenclosed porch. Johnny Johnston, section 20, Byron, residential accessory building. NI Service- Abell, section 34, Scott Township, remove dwelling.

• PROPERTY TRANSFERS Continued from Page 13 • Jennifer L. and Gregory L. Cotovsky to Danza Walsh, 904 Madison St., Oregon, $85,000. • Thomas M. and Deanna L. Hughes to Jessica L. Walker, 15603 W. Town Line Road, Forreston, $235,000. • Michael A. and Linda M. Meyer to Elijah and Michelle Johnson, 410 Chestnut St., Byron, $229,900. • Amanda M. Corrigan to Curtis A. Rouw and Michelle A. Marshall, 7080 E. Hales Corner Road, Stillman Valley, $352,500. • David R. and Kelli Wensky to Gordon W. Stade, Karen F. Hall Stade and third party, Monroe Township, $237,650. • The late Vicki Anderson by heirs to Michael E. and Monica Rasmussen, 401 S. Fifth St., Oregon, $0. • Frederick and Kathleen Olszewski to Malachi G. Messenger and Chelsi S. Langmeier, 9618 W. Fairmont Road, Polo, $249,900. • Scott E. Arbogast to Charles Schaef-

Rolland and Vicki Scheffner, section 23, Leaf River, residential accessory building. Charles Long, section 3, Lafayette Township, residential accessory building. Scott Meyer, section 18, Lincoln Township, residential accessory building. Sondgeroth Pool- Schroeder, section 3, Oregon-Nashua Township, in-ground swimming pool. John Morrissey, section 7, Maryland Township, lean-to addition to accessory building. John and Sue Andrew, section 12, Pine Creek Township, dwelling addition. Clayton Fraley, section 26, White Rock Township, residential accessory building. Nickolas Whittington, section 5, Monroe Township, remove two buildings, construct accessory building. Zack Sondgeroth, section 17, Flagg Township, residential accessory building.

AJ Homes, section 25, White Rock Township, commercial storage building, $125,000. Todd Gentz, section 23, Byron, residential accessory building. Trent & Keri Thuestad, section 10, Pine rock Township, residential accessory building. Steven Hammer, section 28, Oregon-Nashua Township, agricultural building. Amy Clark, Julie Hensley,section 15, Pine Rock Township, temporary amusement. James Rogers, section 8, White Rock Township, single family dwelling, $45,000. Steve Stender, section 31, Pine Rock Township, residential accessory building. Johnson Oil- Express Lane, section 13, Grand Detour, sign. Arlette Howerton and William Kereven, section 25, Mt. Morris, sign. Arlette Howerton and William Kereven, section 25, Mt. Morris, commercial

building, $20,000. Randall Bulthous, section 2, Pine Rock Township, grain dryer. Rick Canfield, section 21, Pine Rock Township, replace portion of barn destroyed by tornado. Posternacks Family Farm Nursery, section 27, Rockvale Township, addition to existing agricultural building. Morton Buildings-Speed, section 27, White Rock Township, agricultural building. David Cunningham, section 33, Mt. Morris, remove silo, grain bins, and storage building; construct agricultural building. Ron Fowler, section 27, Marion Township,agricultural building. Troy and Cori Atchison, section 6, Pine Rock Township, agricultural building. Adam and Rebecca Hazzard, section 15, Rockvale Township, boat launch. Adam and Rebecca Hazzard, section 15, Rockvale Township, shoreline stabilization.

fer, 803 Monroe St., Oregon, $127,000. • Donald R. and Nancy T. Etnyre to Robin L. Etnyre, one parcel and 777 W. state Route 64, Oregon, $262,000. • Ryan J. Rinehart to Donita M. Buskohl, 507 S. Green Ave., Polo, $19,000. • Connie Corpus to Richard J. and Jessica R. McElmeel, 105 W. Meadows Court, Forreston, $152,000. • Lucinda Mennenga, also Ashton to Rodney L. Hammil, 202 W. Avon St., Forreston, $74,100. • David G. and Christina L. King to Hillary A. and Constance C. Jones, 6296 E. Woodburn Road, Byron, $170,000. • Michael, Jillian and Steven Douglas to Brent Charles and Valarie Ann Pfoutz, one parcel and 100 Highwood, Oregon, $295,000. • Kayla Marie Nobel to First Choice Rentals LLC, 230 N. Lafayette St., Byron, $124,000.

• Gregory N. Regole to Joseph R. Ferland, 215 Main St., Leaf River, $0. • Patty Peterson to Jack Pease, two parcels in Byron Township, $0. • Anne M. and the late Leo Michuda to Joseph M. and Karin K. Bajko, one parcel on Monongahela Drive, Dixon, $2,800. Trustee’s Deeds •Dan K. Sawicki Trust 101, Susan Sawicki, Trustee, to Anthony D. and Toni J. Rowley, one parcel in Pine Rock Township, $337,320. • Mary A. Bonnell Trust, Robert and Mary Bonnell, trustees, to Zachary A. and Jessica L. Lowry, 5710 S. Hickory Road, Mt. Morris, $390,000. • Ronald C. and Mariann D. Tilton Trust, Ronald C. and Mariann D. Tilton, trustees, to L. Sheryl Holden, 1133 N. Seventh St., Unit 701, Rochelle, $68,500. • Dorothy Louise Bellows Trust, Dennis D. Bellows, trustee, to Richard and Joyce Nelson, one parcel in Grand Detour Township, $6,667. • Dorothy Louise Bellows Trust, Dennis D. Bellows, trustee, to Laura J. Willey, one parcel in Grand Detour Township, $6,667.

• Casimir and Josephine Czekajlo Trust, Casimir and Josephine Czekajlo, trustees, to Dorothy Louise Bellows Trust, Dennis D. Bellows, trustee, one parcel in Grand Detour Township, $20,000. • Robert J. Arn Living Trust, Robert J. Arn, trustee, to Steven Peterson, one parcel in Stillman Valley Township, $13,000.

Quit Claim Deeds • Ronald S. and Pamela S. Ballard to Brian W. and Caroline M. Ballard, one parcel and 8360 W. Town Line Road, Mt. Morris, $0.

Executor’s Deed •Estate of the late Jon R. Stanley by administrators to Kirk A. and Amanda L. Pearson, 5183 W. Murray Drive, Grand Detour, $87,000. Sheriff’s deed • Sheriff of Ogle County and Kevin M. and Lisa K. Chidley to AJ Homes LLC, 1212 N. 14th St., Rochelle, $175,001. • Sheriff of Ogle County Richard A. Lindquist to Nationstar Reo Sub 1B LLC, 614 S. Main St., Rochelle, $0. Deed • Dgill LLC to Four Biz LLC, 107 E. Dixon St., Polo, $850,000.

Source: Ogle County Recorder’s Office

PLANO – Susan M. “Sue” Hanson, 69, of Plano, passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2020 at Seasons Hospice in Naperville. She was born on Sept. 2, 1950, in Princeton, the daughter of Kenneth and Ila Mae (Rogers) Sieberns. Sue was united in marriage on Dec. 21, 1974, to Mr. Hilo H. Hanson, and they spent the next 45 years happily together. She was a 1968 graduate of Oregon

HARLAN L. HOLM OREGON – Harlan L. Holm, 65, a lifelong Oregon resident, died suddenly Tuesday, August 25, 2020 at KSB Hospital, Dixon. He was born May 17, 1955 in Chicago, the son of John F. and Mariel (Gieselmann) Holm. He was married to Patricia Bott March 3, 1984 in Clinton, Iowa. Harlan graduated from Oregon High School in 1973, and then from Kishwaukee College in May 1975 with a degree in agriculture mechanics. He then farmed with his parents, and worked at Polo Motors for 6 years before returning

MARY LEE KANEY BAILEYVILLE – On Saturday, August 29, 2020, Mary Lee Kaney, formerly of Baileyville, loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away at the age of 88, at Presence St. Joseph’s. Mary Lee was born on April 4, 1932 to Warren and Pearl (Foster) Schreiber of Leaf River. Mary Lee married Marvin Kaney on March 7, 1954, in Forreston. Mary Lee taught school in a one-room school house prior to marriage. She was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church in Forreston, where

High School in Oregon and a 1972 graduate of Illinois State University in Normal. Mrs. Hanson was a member of the National Education Association for 32 years, having taught both kindergarten and first grade in the Hinckley-Big Rock School District #429 in Hinckley, from 1975 until her retirement in 2007. She enjoyed taking pictures of nature, especially beautiful sunsets and clouds. She also loved butterflies, birds and bees. Sue was a wonderful cook and her specialty was making delicious crème

puffs. She will be remembered as a kind and caring person to everyone she knew. Sue was a loving wife, daughter, sister and aunt who will be deeply missed by her family and many friends. Sue is survived by her husband, Hilo H. Hanson of Plano; her mother, Ila Mae

Sieberns of Franklin Grove; her sister, Sharon (Brent) Stanford of Homewood; her niece, Madelaine (Jonah) Buckels of Chicago and her nephew, Sean (Justin) Stanford of Lakewood, Colorado. She was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Sieberns. A funeral service was held Aug. 21, at Nelson Funeral Home. Interment followed at Ashton Cemetery in Ashton. Arrangements by Nelson Funeral Homes & Crematory, www.NelsonFuneralHomes.com

to the family farm full time in 1979. He was an all Massey - all red guy. Harlan also helped his wife, Dr. Patricia Holm, at Auburn Animal Clinic in Rockford. He was a member and on the Leadership Team of Freedom Lutheran Church, Oregon, a board member for over 25 years and past president of the Ogle County Fair Association, and active in Oregon Together and the Rockin’ River Fest.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Holm, DVM of Oregon; mother, Mariel Holm of Oregon; son, Bradley (Katherine) Holm of Oak Harbor, Washington; daughters, Rachel Holm of Plainfield and Halley Holm, a student at Wartburg College, Waverly, Iowa; granddaughter, Logan Holm; brothers, John R. (Teresa) Holm of Seattle, Washington and Peter (Brenda) Holm of Oregon; sisters, Nancy (Earl) Polvi of Edinburg, Texas and Lorna (Art) Bacon of Dyer, Indiana; many nieces and nephews; and former exchange student “son,” Rich (Annie) Nguyen and their son, Charlie. He was predeceased by his father.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a celebration of life for Harlan will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family. Halley: “He was a great Dad who would do anything for his family.” Patricia: “He was a man who could fix or do anything. He was a wonderful example of what a husband and father should be. I loved my husband forever, for always and no matter what.” Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, Oregon assisted the family. Visit www. farrellhollandgale.com to send condolences.

she taught children’s Sunday school, vacation Bible school and was a very active member of the church women’s group, UMW. She served as an election judge, enjoyed cardmaking, candlewicking and ceramics. Her number one focus was always her family and they often marveled at how she managed to accomplish all the things that she did in a single day. She would spend weeks baking and preparing elaborate Christmas cookie trays that her grandchildren looked forward to every year. She was a wonderful grandma who always took the time to get down on the

floor and play with her grandchildren. She is survived by her three daughters, Luann (David) Duitsman of Winnebago, Marilyn (George) Reisner of Jewett, and Laurie (Kevin) Neir of Libertyville; sister-in-law, Eleanor Kaney of Burnsville, Minnesota; seven grandchildren, Stephen (Aleah) Duitsman, Sarah (Mike) Kohn, Amy Duitsman, Austin Reisner, Adam Reisner, Alex Reisner and Ethan Neir; and great-grandchildren, Braelynn and Madison Kohn.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband; sisters, Donna Mae Zumdahl and Jo Ann Hughes; and grandson, Zachary Neir. There is comfort in knowing that Dad once again has his “Dearie” by his side. Private family graveside services will be held Friday, September 4, 2020, at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. A memorial has been established in Mary Lee’s memory. Please visit and sign Mary Lee’s guest book at www.burketubbs.com.

Don’t miss what’s happening in your hometown! Subscribe today. Only $39 a year. Call: 815-732-6166ext. 2518 Email: news@oglecountynews.com

ERNEST F. BRICKER MT. MORRIS – Ernest F. Bricker, 49, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2020 in his home. Ernest was born on June 28, 1971, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the son of Herbert and Margaret Bricker. Ernest was employed with L&K Trucking, Mt. Morris.

Ernest is survived by his loving wife, Jana; two stepchildren, Shawn and Amanda; mother, Margaret; brother, William; and sister, Maribeth. He is preceded in death by his father, Herbert. Cremation rites have been accorded with Finch Funeral Home, 405 E Hitt St., Mt. Morris, IL.

15 OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

OBITUARIES SUSAN M. ‘SUE’ HANSON

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

COVID-19 & BUSINESS

COVID-19 makes rough waters for paddleboat Owners say business is down 80% due to the pandemic BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com The Rock River in Oregon is busier than it has ever been this summer, but one of its businesses is still feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Maxson Restaurant and Riverboat on North Illinois 2 has had to scale back hours and cancel parties due to state guidelines and changes in preferences by customers. “I bet we’re down 80 percent,” Manager Rich Weisner said. ““We just have no customers or business. It’s just sad. There’s no parties. Usually it’s rehearsal dinners on weekends. We don’t see the people that we’ve seen for years. We’re not doing buffets. The tourism situation is sad.” In past years, Maxson’s has been open Tuesday through Sunday. This year, the restaurant is only open on weekends. Staff has been scaled back. The riverboat is still operating for lunch and dinner rides. The state only allows 50 people on the boat and 50 people in the restaurant. All bus trips from Chicago and wedding reservations have been canceled. Normally there are 25 tables, this year it’s nine. “The first day was June 27,” Weisner said. “We were closed for three months. Nobody inside or outside. Probably 85 percent are using the deck. People are shy about coming inside.” Weisner is a jack of all trades at the business. He captains the boat, power washes the deck and bartends. Anything that is needed. Nice weather and people being indoors for the beginning of the summer has caused high recreation traffic on the river. Those that have taken boat rides at Maxson’s this summer have enjoyed themselves, Weisner said. “Who wouldn’t enjoy going out for a two hour boat ride? I’ve probably had 250,000 people on the boat and I can count on one hand how many haven’t had a good time.” Tough times won’t last for the business, Weisner said. Maxson’s received some assistance through grants and loans put into place by the pandemic. Owners Frank and Nancy Sem-

Alex T. Paschal/Shaw Media

ABOVE: The outdoor seating deck of Maxson’s has a beautiful view of the Rock River and Lorado Taft’s Black Hawk Statue. BELOW LEFT: Captain Rich Weisner, fires up the paddles for a trip down river towards Oregon. BELOW RIGHT: The boat’s paddles are designed for river travel where there might be shallow areas.

merling, of Riverwoods, purchased the business in 2014. Weisner says they’re in a good spot for the future despite the pandemic. “The owners here, they have resources,” Weisner said. “We’ll be

around. This won’t close us down. We’ll be here for the future. I’ve been booking weddings for next year.” Maxson’s Restaurant is open Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. until

2 p.m. The riverboat runs from 10 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. for lunch and 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. for dinner. Customers can also just go for rides without eating.

YOUR ENVIRONMENT

Group effort has been curtailed by pandemic BY EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@oglecountynews.com The COVID-19 pandemic has cancelled another group event in Ogle County, but organizers hope individuals will continue the effort on their own. Coordinators of the Oregon Area Rock River Sweep are encouraging local residents, paddlers, fishermen, boaters, and other users of the Rock River to do “Individual Sweeps” of the river during the month of September this year instead of having a large group clean-up event, known in past years as the Rock River Sweep. “This is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to help the local environment by picking up litter in or along the river or the roads near the river,” said Steve Rypkema, a Rock River Sweep member and director of the Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department. Organizers are asking people to go out on their own terms to areas that they like to visit on the river and to collect as much litter and junk as they can and to dispose or recycle it with their regular home curbside

trash pickup. For tires or other larger items removed from the river, contact Rypkema, at the Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department, for disposal arrangements. “Sweepers should be safe when cleaning up the river by wearing safety vests, lifejackets, rubber gloves, and working in pairs in a COVID-19 safe manner,” he said. “Participants are encouraged to take pictures of themselves and their “haul” and post them to the Rock River Sweep.org Facebook page to share what they have collected and to encourage others to do the same.” Rypkema said he and other Oregon Area Rock River Sweep coordinators thank those who “do their part to protect and preserve the beautiful Rock River”. They hope to resume the annual Rock River Sweep next September. For more information, or if supplies like gloves and trash bags are needed, contact Rypkema, at 815-7324020 or email him at: srypkema@ oglecounty.org. The Rock River Sweep is an effort by many groups to clean the Rock River, from its origin in Horicon, Wisconsin, to where it meets the Mississippi River. Frank Masterman started the Rock River Sweep in Oregon in 2009.

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

ABOVE: Volunteers Mark Nehrkorn and Tom Lynch carry bags of trash from Lynch’s boat during a past Rock River Sweep event in Oregon. BELOW: A pile of debris was collected.

SPECIAL NOTICE

Learn rules of open burning before you light that match The Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department (OCSWMD) has been receiving inquiries and complaints regarding the open burning of waste material from around Ogle County. The OCSWMD reminds residents and businesses that the open burning of refuse is prohibited in Ogle County and statewide. The Illinois Environmental Protection Act, as well as county and local ordinances, prohibit the open burning of garbage, plastic, construction and demolition debris (wood included), furniture, mattresses, cabinets, carpet, and all other refuse. The dangers of open burning are enhanced due to the current situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, as local resources need to be preserved for more dire emergencies

and the enhanced risk factors of residents with respiratory problems, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), who may be more at risk to respiratory infections and bothered by nuisance smoke conditions from open burning. As summer winds down and autumn approaches, please consider alternatives to the open burning of landscape waste. The OCSWMD discourages all open burning and recommends other means to dispose naturally of landscape waste, such as mulching, chipping, and composting, or, if available, hauled away by your local waste hauler for composting. “If you live in a city or village, check your local open burning

ordinances prior to any burning of landscape waste,” said Reita Nicholson, administrative assistant for OCSWMD. “In rural areas of Ogle County, landscape waste generated on that property may be burned under certain conditions. “It is a good idea to notify the local fire department or the sheriff’s office prior to any larger landscape waste fire or prescribed burning of grasslands,” she said. “Landscape waste from other properties is not allowed to be hauled away and burned elsewhere.” If you are going to burn your landscape waste, be sure that the material is dry enough to burn and not smolder, and conduct the burn during conditions that smoke will not become a nuisance for your

neighbors, Nicholson said. “Have a water source nearby and be sure that the fire is at least 50 feet from any buildings or other areas that you do not want the fire to spread to. The material should burn quickly with little to no smoke to avoid creating nuisance or health problems for your neighbors,” she said. “Other refuse, such as garbage, plastic, tires, furniture, cabinets, demolition debris, and mattresses are prohibited from being burned anywhere in Illinois.” Contact the OCSWMD at 815-7324020 for the regulations regarding the open burning of landscape waste, or for advice on better alternatives to open burning. Notify the OCSWMD or Ogle County Sheriff’s Office as well if you observe illegal open burning of waste in Ogle County.

OGLE COUNTY NEWS Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

Individuals are asked to ‘sweep’ the Rock River

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

OGLE COUNTY NEWS

OGLE COUNTY

Noise complaints prompt more arrests at bar Sledgehammer’s manager arrested twice over weekend BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com The manager of Sledgehammer’s north of Oregon was arrested for disorderly conduct twice over the past weekend stemming from noise complaints from area residents, Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle said. Melissa Wall was arrested on Aug. 29 and Aug. 30 and released on an I-Bond for a later court date. The Ogle County Board is currently working on a county noise ordinance that could be approved at its Sept. 15. meeting. The board is considering the ordinance after VanVickle said the sheriff’s department has received numerous complaints “every weekend” this summer from residents living near the bar at 1450 N. Illinois 2. Sledgehammer’s owner Jason Stombaugh has also been arrested twice for disorderly conduct

Sledgehammers, north of Oregon, has had live bands this summer. in recent weeks due to noise complaints. “They said Jason wasn’t on the property,” VanVickle said. “That’s why Melissa was arrested instead. If he gets another charge, he’ll lose his gaming license.” Stombaugh and Wall say they have reached out to the Sheriff’s Office multiple times to meet to resolve the situation, but officials have not been receptive. Stombaugh said he’s spent the summer moving

bands and speakers to alleviate the complaints. Wall said she was told they would receive a warning first before an arrest on each day it occurs, but she was arrested without one Sunday. “They’ve taken a civil matter and turned it into a criminal matter,” Wall said. “It gets out there that we were arrested and it seems like we’re criminals. But we’re just having a band.” VanVickle said the noise was loud-

er this weekend than it has been in the past and the arrest route is being used because of the time it’s taken to get the ordinance passed. A disorderly conduct arrest requires the person who made the complaint to press charges and appear in court. Arrests will continue to be made if the complaints continue and people are willing to press charges, VanVickle said. “We’ve had individuals who haven’t been able to enjoy their properties since the middle of May,” VanVickle said. “It continued all summer and they have to stay in their house to minimize it. It shouldn’t be tolerated by anybody. It’s not just the neighborhood, but the area. We get complaints from people at the state park.” Stombaugh said Sledgehammer’s plans to continue to do business and have bands on weekends. He thinks it’s difficult to follow rules when there isn’t one for a noise ordinance currently on the books. “We hope for the best,” Stombaugh said. “But it feels like they’re trying to run us out of town. We’ve heard different things from different sergeants about the licenses and warnings.”

COVID-19 & BUSINESS

Bars, restaurants adapting to new mask rules Patrons must wear masks when they are interacting with staff BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com Cork & Tap Owner Jason O’Neil wants his customers to feel at home at his bar during COVID-19, but he doesn’t want them to forget about it. “We make a point to put up signage at the door and every table reminding people to have it on,” O’Neil said. “We try to make them feel at ease when they’re seated so they can relax and take them off. But we’re still in a pandemic.” The state implemented new guidelines last week requiring patrons in bars and restaurants to wear masks when interacting with staff to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The change took effect on Aug. 26.

Governor JB Pritzker said in a press release that the change was made due to a recent uptick in state cases. “Based on conversations and input from industry and business leaders, the State of Illinois is implementing updated guidelines which will allow restaurants and bars across the state to stay open while helping protect the health and safety of patrons and staff,” Pritzker said. Hazel’s Manager Candace Rivera said that her customers have been respectful and understanding since reopening and that the new guidelines “haven’t changed much.” Rivera said she got guidance immediately from the state and guidance on how exactly to implement the changes. There have been issues of people not wearing masks, but they’ve been resolved by patrons putting one on or leaving, Rivera said. And those patrons are kept away from others while the issue is resolved. “Business is OK,” Rivera said.

“We’re still at 50 percent of where we were. It’s steadily getting better. I think it’s a mixture of everything. Personal finances, not wanting to go inside and hectic schedules that we all seem to have now.” O’Neil said it has been “a little difficult” to have a change in guidelines, but that staff and patrons feel more comfortable as a result of it. Due to it just coming into effect, Cork & Tap hasn’t had any issues with patrons yet. But it has seen “slower than usual” business due to the pandemic as a whole. O’Neil and his wife and co-owner, Carrie, attribute that to people not feeling comfortable going out. “We noticed we didn’t have a big uptick when we reopened,” O’Neil said. “Then people get more comfortable and it picked up. With the new restrictions it dropped down again.” O’Neil has noticed the new restrictions more as a patron than he has as an owner. He and Carrie were out at a county establishment last

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

A grand opening was held at Cork & Tap on Feb. 1, 2018. This photo was taken before masks were mandated to try and stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. weekend. “We saw how people are not paying attention to any of this,” O’Neil said. “It was quite shocking as a bar owner. There’s businesses that don’t follow the rules for that. We try to do our best. There’s no ramifications and patrons have no issues with it. I think it’s unfair.”

Public notice

Classified advertising 101

LEGAL NOTICES

101

STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS - IN PROBATE

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: LORETTA J. STANLEY, Deceased.

In the Matter of the Estate of DAVID R. KEARNEY, Deceased. Case No. 2020-P-52

No. 2020 P 60 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of Loretta J. Stanley. Letters of office were issued on August 14, 2020, to Bridget M. Wolfe, 1601 E. Spring Creek Road, Oregon, Illinois 61061, as Executor, whose attorney is Kim D. Krahenbuhl, WilliamsMc Carthyllp, 607 Washington Street, P.O. Box 339, Oregon, Illinois 61061. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, County Ogle Courthouse, Oregon, Illinois 61061, or with the representative, or both, within six months from the date of first publication of this notice, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within ten days after it has been filed. Dated this 14th day of August, 2020. BRIDGET M. WOLFE, Independent Executor For the Estate of LORETTA J. STANLEY, Deceased Kim D. Krahenbuhl WilliamsMc CarthyLLP P.O. Box 339 Oregon, IL 61061 (815) 732-2101 kkrahenbuh l@wilmac.com Sept. 4, 11 & 18, 2020

CLAIM NOTICE NOTICE IS GIVEN to the creditors of the death of DAVID R. KEARNEY, of Ogle County, Illinois, and that letters of office were issued on June 26, 2020 to Mary P. Kearney, of 3719 East Woodland Dr., Illinois Byron, 61010, Independent Administrator. The Independent Administrator's attorney of record is ELIZABETH V. HELLER of Goldenberg Heller & P.C., Antognoli, 2227 South State Route 157, Edwardsville, Illinois 62025.This estate is being administered without court supervision unless under Section 28-4 of theProbate Act (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested person terminated independent administration. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Ogle County Courthouse, Oregon, Illinois, or with Independent the Administrator's attorney, or six both,within months from the date of this publication or issuance of letters of office, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Circuit Court Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Independent Administrator and to the attorney, within ten (10) days after it has been filed. ELIZABETH V. HELLER, #6207038 Goldenberg Heller & Antognoli, P.C. 2227 South State Route 157

SEARCH FOR LOCAL CARS

LOOKING FOR QUALITY NEWSPAPER CARRIERS Routes Available Now Dixon 4th Ave, Graham, Hubbell (Rt. 3102 - 58 customers) 1st-4th Ave, Palmyra St, Hill Dr (Rt. 3107 - 83 customers) Marclare, Apple, Brinton, Washington (Rt. 3081 - 90 customers)

GREAT GARAGE SALES

Visit us at

www.oglecountynews.com

Sterling and Rock Falls Several routes available! Call for more details.

Call for available Motor Routes!

ANTIQUE AUCTION “3 GENERATIONS!” SAT. SEPT. 12 • 10:00 A.M.

Wendall Boomgarden Estate

6194 S. Bunkerhill Rd., German Valley, IL

est. 1851

CALL 815-625-3600 EXT. 5301 Telegraph • 113 S. Peoria Dixon, IL 61021

ANNUAL FALL HAZELHURST CONSIGNMENT LIVE VIRTUAL AUCTION

LOCATION: Midway between Polo, IL and Milledgeville, IL on the PoloMilledgeville Road. (17748 W. Milledgeville Road, Polo, IL 61064). In Polo on IL 26, turn west on Oregon Street (Polo-Milledgeville Rd). In Milledgeville on IL 40, turn east on Polo-Milledgeville Road. Off road parking at entrance on west side of site. See advance sale bills/pictures on our website at topauctions24-7.com/paspolo & auctionzip.com

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2020 • 9:00AM Online Bidding available through ProxiBid starting at 9:00 am www.proxibid.com For registration questions, please contact ProxiBid at 877-505-7770 or Braydan Beiswanger at 260-760-4036. Online Buyer Premium charged. Live Simulcast bidding day of sale and prebidding available ahead of auction.

Note: New plan this year. Online bidding will be introduced, therefore all items in by Sept 1. We want to keep everyone safe and healthy (social distancing, masks, etc) therefore we will only be tractors, farm implements, trucks, trailers, vehicles. Plus running riding mowers, ATV’s, golf carts. ***Unfortunately we will not have smaller items. Gates will be open on September 8, 9 & 10 between 10:00 am & 6:00 pm for viewing (and getting a buyer number). All items below have been consigned, Public Auction Service and employees assume that all items will be there on sale day in the condition described. However, if not, we assume no responsibility. Partial listing, as usual, lots more listed by sale day!!! There will be a selection of Tractors, Skid Loaders, Crawler, Backhoes, Compact Tractors plus Tillage & Planting equipment, Forage & Harvest equipment, Wagons, Grain Carts, Spreaders, Feed Wagons, Grinders, Elevators, Augers, Corn & Grain heads, Corn Drier, Lawn Mowers ATV’s, Vehicles, Trailers, Boats, Mowers, Blades, Miscellaneous.

FARM OF MRS. SHERWOOD SHANK & FAMILY 815-225-7730 (SALE SIGHT DURING BUSINESS HOURS)

Auctioneers: Polo, IL 61064

Clerks: Public Auction Service

Lenny Bryson (IL#440000158) 815-946-4120 Lyle & Sheryl Hopkins (IL#440000185) Mark Ebert (IL#440000341) 815-946-2809 Brent Schmidgall Cal Kaufman (IL# 440000363) 815-946-2660 or 800-848-9519 Terms - Cash, good check, or credit card - Master Card, Visa, American Express and Discover (with a 3% convenience fee). All items must be settled for day of sale. Number system will be used, have picture ID. Not responsible for accidents or merchandise after sold.

SM-ST1812037

LEGAL NOTICES

The Oregon Planning Commission will be holding a public hearing September 22nd at City Hall Council Chambers 115 N. 3rd St in regards to a re-zoning of the BUSINESS 101S. VOLUNTEERS 126 LEGAL NOTICES property at 601 205 PROPERTY 1st St. Property is now owned by CASA Building for Coilcraft and 15th Judicial lease: zoned residential. Circuit (Lee/ apx., 4200 sq. ft., Coilcraft would like Carroll/Ogle laydown area to get property Counties) apx 2 acres, zoned commercial (2) 12'x 14' OHD is seeking volunto match the rest shop area & teers in the Ogle of its adjoining office. properties at County area to ad815-626-8790 Aug. 28, Sept. 4 & 9 Clay St. and vocate for children 11, 2020 11 Clay St. in the Ogle County Sept. 4, 2020 court system inPublication Notice FOR SALE volved in abuse of Court Date for BY OWNER 209 Request for and neglect cases. Name Change Your involvement (Adult) can impact a POLO State of Illinois, child’s future. Circuit Court, Ogle Contact Trisha County Former Buildings Morrow, ExecuNumber Case of Edgewood tive Director 2020MR000042 Golf Club For Request of: (815) 288-1901 Sale! Small Rocio Garcia www.casaleecar Acreage, 815There will be a IN THE CLASSIFIEDS roll.com 946-3080 court date on my request to change my name from: Rocio Garcia to the new name of: Rocio Belmonte Court Date: September 24, 2020 at 9:00 A.M. At 106 S. 5th Street, Oregon, IL, 61061 Ogle County. Courtroom #202 Rocio Garcia August 28 & September 4, 11 2020 Publication Notice Public Notice is hereby given that Please observe social distancing. WEAR A MASK! on July 13, 2020, a certificate was filed in the Ogle County ANTIQUES-HOUSEHOLD-COLLECTIBLES: Clerk's Office set- 2 Oak Commodes; Marble Top Commode; Pine Dry Sink; Oak Dry Sink; 2 ting forth the Pine Fruit Cupboards; Blanket Chest; Cedar Chest; Bentwood Chairs; Toy names and post Cresant Stove; Kerosene Lamps; Old Cookbooks; Chicago Stockyards Cane; office address of Postcards; Old Ladies Hats; Assort. Crocks; Oak Arm Rocker; Local Adver. all of the persons Items; German Valley Elevator Spatter ware Pitcher; Duncan Phyfe Table w/ owning conducting and transacting the chairs; 2 Wood Coffee Grinders; Spinning Wheel; Green Depression Glass; 1890’s 6’ Pine Hutch; Oak Glass Buffet & Chest; Newer China Hutch; 100+ business known hand painted Plates; Lots sm. Collectibles & Glassware; Splash back Oak as: Chest; LP Records; Pleasant Prairie Class Ring 1944; Lots Ladies Jewelry; AdyMar Properties Inc. Drop-leaf Pine Table w/ chairs; Wicker Arm Rocker; 1890 Carved Oak Chest 878 Prairie w/ 6 drawers, hanky boxes; Child’s Rocker; Doll Furniture; 1930 Singer Lily Lane Sew Machine; GWTW Lamp; Oak 3 dr. Chest; Old Bedroom Set w/ chest & Davis Junction, Vanity; Old Picture Frames; Gorham Doll Collection; Wash Bench; 1871 & IL 61020 1913 Stephenson Co. Atlas; Lots Fruit Jars; Egg Case; Old Maytag Wringer Dated: July 13, 2020 Washer; Pots & Pans; Plus more. Laura J Cook Ogle County Clerk August 21, 28 & FARM RELATED-LAWN & GARDEN: September 4, 2020 1892 High wheel Wood Wagon Gear; Cowboy Tank Heater; 2 Wood Wheelbarrows; 1940 Clinton 5 hp Fence Mower; 24’ Ext. Ladder; Corn 112 Sheller; Lanark, IL Grain Cleaner; 1965 Green Schwinn Bike; Old Trike; CI Public notice Lawn Furniture; 3 Park Benches; Lots old Hand Tools; German Valley Lumber Co. Apron; Galaway Cream Separator; “Super Hatch” Egg Incubator. The Oregon Planning Commission TERMS: will be holding a Cash or check w/ picture ID. hearing public Check website for pictures September 22nd at City Hall Council and more information: Chambers 115 N. Proauctionsllc.com and Auctionzip.com 3rd St in regards to Rick Garnhart, Auctioneer a re-zoning of the German Valley, IL • 815-238-3044 property at 601 S. IL Lic: #440000901 1st St. Property is SM-ST1805534 now owned by Coilcraft and zoned residential. Coilcraft would like

19 CLASSIFIED Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

of letters of office, and any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Circuit Court Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Independent Administrator and to the attorney, within ten (10) days after it has been filed. LEGAL NOTICES 101 ELIZABETH V. HELLER, #6207038 Goldenberg Heller & Antognoli, P.C. 2227 South State Route 157 Edwardsville, Illinois 62025 618-656-5150

ROCK FALLS EFFICIENCIES! -InclusiveClean & Quiet 815-626-8790*

ROCK FALLS 1 & 2BR Hampton Apts. 815-625-7043

STERLING Sinnissippi Townhomes Spacious 2/3BR 2 story townhomes Central air, Good location. Laundry hookup. (815)626-1130.

CHILD CARE

512

NO INDIVIDUAL, unless licensed or holding a permit as a childcare facility, may cause to be published any advertisement soliciting a child care service.* A childcare facility that is licensed or operating under a permit issued by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services may publish advertisements of the services for which it is specifically licensed or issued a permit. Sauk Valley Media strongly urges any parent or guardian to verify the validity of the license of any facility before placing a child in its care. *Family homes that care for no more than three (3) children under the age of twelve or which receive only children from a single household, for less than 24 hours per day, are exempt from licensure as day care homes. The three children to whom this exemption applies includes the family's natural or adopted children and any other persons under the age of 12 whether related or unrelated to the operator of the day care home. (DCFS Rule, Part 377.3 (c))

GREAT GARAGE SALES IN THE CLASSIFIEDS Call

815-284-7653 or 815-626-7653

MOBILE HOMES FOR RENT

315

EMPLOYMENT

505

NOW HIRING CDL Drivers

•Full/Part Time & Seasonal •Competitive Wages and Benefits Please call Luis 815-359-2002 or apply online at fsgrain.com

AREA GARAGE SALES 624

WOOD / FUEL

746

Better Efficiency and more heat output than traditional wood heating. Central Boiler Classic Edge Titanium HDX OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE. Call Today!! Silver Streak AG Services LLC 815-718-3414

WANT TO BUY 795 Local Buyer Pays Cash 4 Gold, Silver, Coins, Estate Gold, Single Earrings, Antiques, etc. 24/7 779-245-2950

MISCELLANEOUS 796 FOR SALE 2015 EZ-GO, 4 seat, gas powered golf cart. $5,200, Must see 815-441-7567 Cub Cadet LGTX-1054, 27 HP, 54” deck, Hydro foot drive, Cruise Control, Runs good. $1100 OBO 815-625-1606 815-716-0848

AUTOMOBILES 905 '05 Ford Freestar Minivan, V6, 7 passenger, 171k miles, Runs Great, $1695 1227 N. Vernon St.,Princeton 708-752-3742 1998 Gold Chevy Malibu, 124,500 Mi, Great Cond. $2500 OBO 815-440-0320

AUTOMOBILES 905 2014 Nissan Rogue

AWD, garage kept, new tires & brakes, brand new cond. 76k mi. Must see! Will not be disappointed. 33MPG Beautiful SUV. $11,500 815-718-3077

BOATS/MOTORS 940 Boat For Sale: 1993 Lowe Jon Boat, Trailer, and Motor. $2100 OBO 815-632-4535

w w w.oglecountyne ws.com

APARTMENTSFURNISHED 305

Visit us at

Ogle County Newspapers / oglecountynews.com • Friday, September 4, 2020

CLASSIFIED

Send A Smile To Your Loved One With A

HAPPY AD

Happy 5th Birthday

Caroline

Love, Mom & Dad

Call 815-284-7653 or 815-626-7653

OGLE COUNTY NEWSPAPERS

Oregon Republican Reporter Mt.Morris Times Forreston Journal • Polo’s Tri-County Press The Exchange