MER_022526_Mendota Reporter

This Lent, practice choosing your words wisely

UNLIMITED DIGITAL ACCESS

Included in every subscription

Activate your digital subscription today.

Email: digitalactivation@shawmedia.com

OFFICE

703 Illinois Ave., Mendota, IL 61342

SUBSCRIBER SERVICES

Phone: 815-526-4420

Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 9:00am to 3:00pm

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Wednesdays, $69 per year in advance in LaSalle, Lee and Bureau counties and $89 per year in advance in the United States outside of those counties.

Subscriber Terms and Conditions may change at any time. The current version will supersede all previous versions. The most current version of subscription terms are posted on the website under Terms and Conditions.

DEPARTMENTS

To reach all other departments, call 833-584-NEWS.

CLASSIFIED SALES classified@shawlocal.com

HELP WANTED employment@shawlocal.com

LEGAL NOTICES

lasallelegals@shawlocal.com

OBITUARIES lasalleobits@shawlocal.com

Market manager Jeanette Smith jmsmith@shawmedia.com

Executive editor M. Eileen Brown ebrown@shawmedia.com

Editor Kevin Solari ksolari@shawmedia.com

The Mendota Reporter (USPS 399-100) is published Wednesdays except federal holidays

Periodical postage paid at Mendota, IL and additional mailing offices

Postmaster: Send address changes to Mendota Reporter, 703 Illinois Ave., Mendota, IL 61342

Mendota Reporter and ShawLocal.com are a division of Shaw Media.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2026

SPIRIT MATTERS

Jerrilyn Zavada Novak

This past week, we observed Ash Wednesday, which began the sacred season of Lent.

Lent is the 40 days leading up to Easter Sunday. This time period provides the faithful an opportunity to fast, pray and intentionally give more to those in need. Rather than being a season of lack, it can be a season of refinement and renewal in our relationship with God.

The ashes we receive on our foreheads on Ash Wednesday are a symbol of our mortality, and come with a sacramental invitation: Even now, says the LORD, return to me with your whole heart, with fasting, and weeping, and mourning; Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the LORD, your God For he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love.

(Joel 2:12-13)

Typically, people give something up for Lent. The something they give up is entirely up to them, but it should be something they enjoy.

Examples might include social media, soda pop, ice cream, chocolate,

television, etc.

On the other hand, some people add a spiritual practice during Lent to deepen their prayer life and their lived understanding of the gospel. Examples might include praying the daily Scriptures, participating in the Stations of the Cross, praying a daily rosary, etc.

Choosing a Lenten practice should ultimately be about acknowledging our complete dependence on God, and our desire to grow in holiness – in loving God, and loving our neighbor as ourselves, just as Jesus instructs us.

As a cradle Catholic, I have been observing Lent to one degree or another my entire life.

Early in my journey, I was often anxiously concerned about following all the rules, and not making the mistake of breaking the church-prescribed fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, lest I die in the state of mortal sin and spend eternity in hell – as had been implied to me.

It is challenging to have a spiritually-rich Lent when you are most concerned God is going to catch you doing something wrong. After all, God himself just told us in the above reading that “he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love.”

Fortunately, I now know Lent not as something to struggle through, but is a graced opportunity to turn down the noise of my world and spend quality time with God.

And in that quieter space, to recog -

nize behaviors and attitudes that need improvement and ask God for the grace to do better, to be better.

Pope Leo, his fingers on the pulse of the world at the moment, recently encouraged the faithful to fast from “a very practical and unappreciated form of abstinence: that of refraining from words that offend and hurt our neighbor.”

I cannot think of a more appropriate fast this Lent for believers and non-believers alike.

“Let us begin by disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgment, refraining from slander and speaking ill of those who are not present and cannot defend themselves,” Pope Leo wrote.

“Instead, let us strive to measure our words and cultivate kindness and respect in our families, among our friends, at work, on social media, in political debates, in the media and in Christian communities.

“In this way, words of hatred will give way to words of hope and peace.”

In this time of unpredictable chaos, it is empowering to think we each can play a role in restoring peace to our troubled world.

Let there be peace on Earth, and let it begin with the words we write and speak.

• Spirit Matters is a weekly column by Jerrilyn Zavada Novak that examines experiences common to the human spirit. Contact her at jzblue33@yahoo.com.

Community United Methodist Church hosting supper

4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Mar 26 at Lion’s Club in LaMoille

By MATHIAS WOERNER mwoerner@shawmedia.com

Community United Methodist

Church in LaMoille is hosting a women’s chicken and spaghetti dinner from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 26 at the church’s Lion’s Club.

The meal includes a quarter fried chicken (choice of white or dark meat), a side of spaghetti, coleslaw and a cookie.

Adult meal tickets cost $15, senior meal tickets cost $12 and a kid’s ticket

Mendota Mayor Dave Boelk said that the existing Mendota public pool is approximately 70 years old. Scott Anderson file photo ON THE COVER

for spaghetti costs $5.

Residents can dine in or pick up their meal at the Lion’s Club at 408 Howard St in LaMoille.

Tickets can only be boughtover the phone by calling Community United Methodist Church at 815-638-2348.

There will not be any ticket sales at the door. Any other form of ticket sale will not be valid.

Scan here to get Illinois

HOW ARE WE DOING?

We want to hear from you. Email us your thoughts at feedback@shawmedia.com.

Scan here to get Kendall County Text Alerts

Mendota public pool will not be open in 2026

City Council cites needed repairs as reason

By MATHIAS WOERNER mwoerner@shawmedia.com

Mendota residents hoping to cool off in the municipal pool this summer will have to find another way to beat the heat.

The Mendota City Council announced in a news release that the Mendota public pool will not open for the 2026 summer season due to major construction and repairs that must be completed to keep the pool safe and operational.

“We know this is a major disappointment,” city officials said in the release.

After an evaluation by Mendota’s

city staff and engineers, it was determined that the pool can be repaired at an estimated cost of $1 million, according to the release. The repairs are a significant investment, yet substantially less than the estimated $6.7 million to construct a new pool facility.

With these repairs, the city anticipates extending the life of the existing pool by at least another 10 years.

“The pool is an integral part of summer for so many families,” Mayor Dave Boelk said. “We understand how difficult it is to lose this option for an entire season.”

However, due to the costs involved, the city has determined that repairing the pool is the most responsible and attainable option at this time.

City staff have been working with engineers to complete the plans, and

permits have been submitted, but Boelk said that it would take time to get work done on the pool.

“It would take an act of Congress and the Senate to get the permit process to go any quicker,” he said.

Due to the lengthy permit turnaround and the amount of construction time required, the pool will not open this season.

The Mendota City Council hopes to have the pool available in 2027.

The city is working with local partners such as the Mendota YMCA and the Graves-Hume Public Library to help provide alternative classes and activities for youth and families this summer.

Additionally, through Live Well Mendota coalition and grant funding, Mendota city staff are reaching out to individuals, groups and organizations to

create a wide variety of activities.

These opportunities will range from one hour, one day or one week, and give youth of all ages the chance to learn new skills and explore new interests, including cooking, sewing, gardening, arts and crafts, fitness and wellness, and other community-led programs.

Many of the activities will be free, and others will be offered at minimal cost to ensure accessibility for families.

For an updated list of activities, or to sign up to host an activity, residents can visit:www.mendota.il.us/livewell.

A full calendar of summer events and activities can be found through the Mendota Chamber of Commerce at: https:// www.mendotachamber.com/events/.

For more information, contact Mendota Project Director Annie Short at 815539-7459, or ashort@mendotacity.com.

Postal workers across Illinois Valley ask for increased pay

By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com

Stagnant wages. Mandatory overtime. Cost-of-living increases that aren’t keeping up with inflation. Postal workers say they are tired, overworked and underpaid.

Hoping for a better deal when negotiations begin this week, about two dozen postal workers gathered Sunday outside the Peru Post Office. They wore T-shirts reading “Fight like hell!” and waved signs clamoring for support from the public.

“We’re standing in solidarity to get everybody, across the board, better wages and working conditions at the post office,” said Candis Brands, a resident of Bureau but also a steward at the Spring Valley Post Office for Branch 219 at the National Association of Letter Carriers.

Brands and other postal workers responded to an appeal by the NALC to

“Our wages, they just haven’t kept up with inflation in the past contract cycles,” said Devin Broderick, vice president of NALC Branch 219. “We’re out here every day, so we think we deserve it.”

“I feel like a lot of us really need a more livable wage,” said Sue O’Brien, a Peru resident and Branch 219 steward for the La Salle Post Office. “They’re starting off around $20 an hour and that’s just not a wage that you can live on anymore. So we are fighting for a higher starting wage.”

O’Brien said NALC members also are seeking better working conditions, including a 40-hour work week.

“There’s a lot of people who are forced to work overtime that don’t want to work overtime,” she said. “That’s a big issue.”

LaFranzo is president of Branch 219, which serves a broad cross-section of local post offices, including Mendota, Amboy, Princeton and Oglesby. Most of Branch 219’s offices are small (except L-P), so Sunday’s rally was partly to bring awareness to issues affecting all postal workers, no matter the size of their postal stations.

While wages and hours are the top issues, LaFranzo said there are ancillary issues that are chipping into the workers’ income.

“The cost of our uniforms is very high and our allowance is not very high,” she said. “We get like $400 a year, and a pair of pants is $150.”

hold “Fight Like Hell!” rallies calling before the NALC opens contract negotiations with the U.S. Postal Service on Feb. 25.

It’s an issue that’s driving turnover, as well. As Sarah LaFranzo explained it, 60-hour workweeks are causing burnout, particularly among the newer hires who quit and drive down retention rates.

Response from passersby appeared strong. LaFranzo and other picketers waved in appreciation each time a motorist honked or gave a thumbs-up.

LaFranzo isn’t sure the Postal Service will be as supportive when negotiations commence.

“I think it’s gonna be tough sledding.”

IVCC, Waltham Curling Club offer beginner lessons in March

By MARIBETH M. WILSON mwilson@shawmedia.com

Illinois Valley Community College and the 140-year-old Waltham Curling Club in Triumph are teaming up again to offer curling lessons as part of IVCC’s Continuing Education Center community education series.

The Learn to Curl class will meet from 6 to 8 p.m. on Mondays, March 2 to 23.

According to an IVCC news release, curling veterans will review terminology, equipment, scoring and techniques as students grow comfortable on the ice. Team play will be introduced in the last two sessions.

“On TV, curling looks easy, but it takes practice. A lot goes into curling before you even step on the ice, and we go through all those steps,” Lead instructor Sheila Heth said in a news release.

The class was popular last year, and the club looked forward to hosting lessons again during an Olympic year. Televised competitions always spark interest in a sport that is still unfamiliar to many, Heth said.

“Those of us who taught the class all enjoyed it and met new friends,” she said. “We had about a dozen people from the class sign up for the club, and we were pleasantly surprised and happy

about that!”

Health said Illinois Valley residents do not have far to travel to find instruction and an arena with a viewing room, public open houses, and friendly members proud to share their love of the sport. Few other colleges offer curling instruction and most curling clubs are in the Chicago suburbs.

She said curling is a great exercise and all ages can play. Waltham curlers range from youngsters to adult members in their 80s who have played for 50 years.

“Plus, you meet new people and the social aspect is a big part of curling,” Heth said.

The game weaves strategy, teamwork and skill, the college said. Players slide heavy granite stones down an ice sheet, aiming to get their stones closer to the center of a circular target than their opponent’s. All four players take turns delivering the stone, two sweepers accompany the stone to manage its speed and direction, and one player, the skip, or captain, is the strategist.

The Learn to Curl class costs $75. To register, call 815-224-0427 and reference ID 25903.

For information about the class and other classes offered by Continuing Education and Business Services, visit ivcc.edu/enroll.

A player aims a battery-powered blaster during a game of GellyBall at Peru Mall. The game, recommended for ages 5 and up, features blacklight effects and allows players to participate in games such as capture the flag and freeze tag.

New Gellyball arena opens up at Peru Mall

EYES ON ENTERPRISE

Each fall, Insanity Haunted House hosts a scare-free haunted house one day a week at its Peru Mall location, and every year, the most common feedback is appreciation from parents happy for an activity to occupy their children.

“We listened to the public when they said there was nothing for the kids to do,” said Pete Pavia, owner of Insanity Haunted House and his new venture, Peru GellyBall.

“Everyone keeps asking, ‘What’s GellyBall?’” he said. “It’s kind of a cross of paintball, airsoft and laser tag. There’s no pain in it.”

Pavia learned about it at a convention where he met a GellyBall representative and felt it fit the bill for Illinois Valley youth – a no-mess, low-impact, affordable action game.

The shooting game, recommended for ages 5 and up, uses battery-powered blasters to shoot water-hydrated gel orbs that burst on impact, but don’t leave stains and cause minimal sting.

“The big one is no pain. That’s the problem with airsoft or paintball. It hurts when you get shot,” he said.

The Peru GellyBall arena is located inside Peru Mall across from Secret Nails and near the entrance of the former JCPenney. The venue is open 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, noon to 7 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Pavia said there are different games kids can play, such as capture the flag or freeze tag. The smallest package is

700 GellyBall shots.

GellyBall typically uses inflatables for its arena and is mobile, intended

for parties.

“That’s not how I do things. I went all out and built an arena. I think people are going to love it,” he said. “The blacklight aspect gives the haunted vibe. That was my spin on it.”

The immobile arena is about 4,000 square feet, located inside the Peru Mall across from Secret Nails and near the entrance of the former JCPenney. Once this side of the business is established, Pavia plans to add inflatables for parties.

In the meantime, parties are available to book at the mall location. He said there’s been great interest in parties.

Open play is not available while the space is being used for a party.

Hours are from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Parties are available to book during the week, also. Pavia also plans to add more hours in the summer when kids are out of school.

• The Times / NewsTribune / Bureau County Republican is committed to keeping readers up to date with business happenings in the area. Much of our reporting relies on what we see and hear, but we’re also reaching out to readers for tips on business items. If you have a tip to share for Eyes on Enterprise, email newsroom@ mywebtimes.com.

NATIONAL FFA WEEK

From the food we eat to the clothes we wear, agriculture is a part of our daily lives. More than 700,000 FFA members will celebrate the role agriculture plays in our lives while sharing the message of agricultural education as part of National FFA Week (Feb. 21-28).

National FFA Week is a time for FFA members to host activities that raise awareness about the role FFA plays in the development of agriculture’s future leaders and the importance of agricultural education. National FFA Week always runs Saturday to Saturday and encompasses Feb. 22, George Washington’s birthday.

The National FFA Board of Directors designated the weeklong tradition, which began in 1948, in recognition of Washington’s legacy as an agriculturist and farmer. A group of young farmers founded FFA in 1928, influencing generations that agriculture is more than planting and harvesting — it involves science, business and more. The organization’s mission is to prepare future generations for the challenges of feeding a growing population.

Today, FFA continues to help the next generation meet new agricultural challenges, develop unique talents and explore a broad range of career pathways. Today’s FFA members are tomorrow’s future biologists, chemists, veterinarians, engineers and entrepreneurs.

Est 1848

with Yo-Yo

and

La Salle man to tour with Yo-Yo Ma

By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com

Brody Hahn, 18, of La Salle will go on tour from March 7 to 15 with Yo-Yo Ma and Interlochen Arts Academy.

Hahn, a former St. Bede Academy student and emerging jazz bassist, studied under Lisa Griggs and performed with the Illinois Valley Community College Jazz Orchestra, directed by Brandon Czubachowski.

According to a press release from Interlochen Arts Academy, Hahn previously studied percussion with Randy Noy at Starved Rockers Music, establishing a versatile musical foundation. Above all, Hahn credits the late Kevin Kramer as the most significant influence on his musical path — an educator whose mentorship and inspiration profoundly shaped Hahn’s artistic direction and long-term aspirations.

Hahn is currently completing his senior year at the renowned Interlochen Arts Academy, where he studies Jazz

Performance. He recently finished his first semester earning High Honors with Distinction, a recognition reserved for top-performing students.

Beginning next fall, Hahn will attend the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, one of the world’s leading conservatories. There, he will continue advancing his mastery of the upright bass and pursuing his long-term goal of a professional career in jazz performance.

The tour is a collaborative project with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, The Philadelphia Orchestra , andthe Detroit Symphony Orchestra and features side-by-side performances with members of each orchestra, many of whom are Interlochen alumni. Cristian Măcelaru, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of Interlochen’s World Youth Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Designate of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, and Interlochen Arts Camp and Academy alumnus, will conduct.

Prosecutors want Peru cocaine suspect jailed

Mond to argue for staying on pre-trial release at March 2 hearing

By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com

A Peru woman charged with possessing almost 2 pounds of cocaine was jailed Friday after La Salle County prosecutors alleged she violated her pre-trial release. Charnelle Mond plans to argue for another chance.

Mond, 29, also listed in La Salle, appeared Friday in La Salle County Circuit Court and was presented with a new charge of unlawful use of cannabis by a driver, a Class A misdemeanor carrying up to a year in jail.

Charnelle N. Mond

While that charge pales in comparison to the 50 years she could face if convicted of her Super Class X cocaine charge, committing a Class A misdemeanor is grounds for a judge to revoke pre-trial release and jail a suspect until trial.

Mond asked for time to huddle with her legal counsel and argue later for another crack at pre-trial release.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF

Sex offender gets 3 years for solicitation in Mendota

A registered sex offender is headed to prison for three years after pleading guilty Thursday totrying to solicit a teenage girl in Mendota.

Edward W. Pickford, 28, of Dalzell pleaded guilty in La Salle County Circuit Court to one count of indecent solicitation of a child and violating the Sex Offender Registration Act, both Class 3

Chief Judge H. Chris Ryan Jr. agreed and set a hearing for March 2.

In a Friday filing, prosecutors said Mond was pulled over for speeding late Thursday in La Salle. The patrol officer caught a whiff of cannabis and Mond acknowledged carrying 2 grams of cannabis, not packaged. Even though recreational cannabis is legal in Illinois, that’s a no-no.

Prosecutors argued it also should be the last straw. Mond, they wrote, is on home confinement with GPS monitoring yet the device set off 13 alarms for violations, three of which resulted in reports filed in the courts.

“It is evident [Mond] has no respect for the grace she has been given by this court under the Pretrial Fairness Act in this cause,” wrote prosecutor Laura Hall, “and will continue to violate the conditions of her home confinement if her pre-trial release is not revoked.”

Mond was charged April 25, 2024, after drug agents raided a Peru dwelling and seized about 900 grams of purported cocaine. She would face 12 to 50 years in prison if convicted.

A second suspect, 40-year-old Robert L. Wright, has been in custody since the 2024 bust. Wright was charged not only for the drugs for unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon. Prosecutors persuaded the judge that Wright was within “arm’s reach” of a firearm during the drug raid.

Convicted Streator murderer to ask for new trial at May 1 hearing

By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com

A Streator man serving 80 years for murder wants a do-over trial. Malcolm Whitfield will make his case at a May 1 hearing.

Malcolm Whitfield, 32, made a brief appearance Friday in La Salle County Circuit Court on his motion to reconsider. Chief Judge H. Chris Ryan Jr. agreed to hear Whitfield’s bid for new trial and set a court date for the first of May.

There were no arguments entered Friday in open court; but Whitfield and his lawyer, Public Defender Ryan Hamer, had filed a motion citing three grounds for reversal.

First, the jury failed to consider Whitfield’s self-defense argument. Second and third, the judge failed to consider Whitfield’s rehabilitative potential and overly considered the injuries to those who survived the shooting.

Even if Whitfield doesn’t prevail at the May 1 hearing, he will have at least exhausted his options at trial court and cleared the way for an appeal.

Whitfield was developed as a suspect in the shooting that killed Shaquita Kelly and injured two others. A jury rejected Whitfield’s claim that he acted in self-defense and convicted him of first-degree murder.

At sentencing, Ryan made a key finding that extended Whitfield’s prison time: One of the survivors, Kelly’s 20-year-old daughter, sustained

killer Malcom Whitfield, seen here at his 2025 sentencing hearing, wants a new trial. Whitfield appeared Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, in La Salle County Circuit Court and left with a May 1 hearing on his motion to reconsider.

great bodily harm.

That finding resulted in a 20-year sentence for aggravated battery with a firearm to be served atop Whitfield’s 60-year sentence for murder. Even a limited reversal on the finding of great bodily harm could significantly reduce Whitfield’s sentence.

Barring a reversal, Whitfield is ineligible for release until 2117.

felonies carrying two to five years in prison.

In exchange for his plea, La Salle County prosecutors agreed to dismiss a second count of solicitation. Prosecutors further agreed to a pair of three-year sentenc -

es, which Pickfordwill serve concurrently.

Pickford declined to address Circuit Judge Michelle A. Vescogni before sentencing.

Had the case gone to trial, prosecutors were prepared to call a teen who alerted Mendota police in October that she had been contacted via social media by a man who tried to solicit an illicit act.

Police traced the social media account

to Pickford, a registered sex offender who had previously served an 18-month sentence for solicitation and who had pleaded guilty to being in a restricted school zone.

Pickford provided a statement in which he admitted to the illicit contact with the teen and to not alerting authorities to opening his social media account.

– Tom Collins

Brown fills the vacancy left by former board member Matt Hanaman, and will serve the remainder of the term, which expires in 2027.

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Mendota Township High School District 280 appoints new board member

Mendota Township High School District 280 School Board President Jim Lauer announced the appointment of new member Karly Brown, effective immediately.

She fills the vacancy left by former board member Matt Hanaman, and will serve the remainder of the term, which expires in 2027.

Brown is an alum of Mendota High School and currently serves as a registered nurse at the OSF St. Paul Medical Center in Mendota.

She was selected for the position because of her strong commitment to improving student outcomes and her dedication to strengthening engagement between the school district and the community.

– Mathias Woerner

Peru Kohl’s hit twice in daytime burglaries

There actually were two robbery-burglary incidents at the Peru Kohl’s, both in November, and police have developed multiple suspects.

With the help of Peoria police, according to a Peru police report, “It was later found that both incidents were conducted by subjects associated with a large organized

2024

retail theft crew out of Peoria.”

One of the suspects was caught. As previously reported, 19-year-old Quanayia Barnett McGhee of Peoria was ordered detained Wednesday in La Salle County Circuit Court for robbery and burglary. New court filings allege she punched a 63-year-old store employee who tried to thwart the thefts.

Immediately after the Nov. 13 incident, Barnett McGhee and two others are alleged

to have fledthe scene in Jeep Grand Cherokee that was clocked at more than 100 mph as the suspects tried to evade arrest.

Peru and Peoria authorities have identified them, anyway. Court records show at least two of the Nov. 13 participants were involved in a Nov. 21 incident at the Peru Kohl’s. Warrants have been issued for the remaining suspects.

– Tom Collins

Peru City Cemetery spring cleanup begins March 2

Spring cleanup at Peru City Cemetery will begin Monday, March 2.

All decorations should be removed from the cemetery by Sunday, March 1.

Residents with questions about the cleanup can contact Peru City Hall at 815-223-0061.

Morris Hospital Foundation offering health care scholarships in 2026-27 year

By MICHAEL URBANEC murbanec@shawmedia.com

The Morris Hospital Foundation is offering a number of health care scholarships for students pursuing the field during the 2026-27 academic year.

According to a news release, the scholarships are intended to encourage education in a health-related course of study while enhancing the availability of health care providers in the local community.

Scholarships available

• The $1,000 Carol Harrington Endowed Morris Hospital Foundation Scholarship will be awarded to a student who is either accepted into, or currently enrolled in, a health-related curriculum at an accredited college, university or vocational/technical school and is an Illinois resident.

• The $1,000 Relucio Family Healthcare Scholarship will each be awarded to a student who is either accepted into, or currently enrolled in, a health-related curriculum at an accredited college, university or vocational/technical school.

Scholarship applicants must be a resident of Illinois and reside in a community considered part of the Morris Hospital service area, which includes Braceville, Braidwood, Channahon, Coal City, Dwight, Gardner, Kinsman, Marseilles, Mazon, Minooka, Morris, Newark, Ottawa,

Ransom, Seneca, South Wilmington, Verona and Wilmington.

• The Betty J. Sterritt Nursing Scholarship offers up to $4,000 over two years to a student obtaining posthigh school education in nursing who is a resident of, or from Grundy County and intends to serve as a nurse at a health care facility in Grundy County after their education is completed.

For information, mail 150 W. High St., Morris, IL 60450, call 815-942-2932 or visit www.morrishospital.org.

• Through the Hugo Avalos Endowed Scholarship, up to $5,000 is available for students accepted into or currently enrolled in an accredited medical school, nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant program. Applicants must be or have been a resident of Illinois.

• Applications for the Carol Harrington, Relucio Family and Betty J. Sterritt scholarships are available on the hopsital website, www.morrishospital.org/scholarships. Students are permitted to apply for as many scholarships as they would like by checking the appropriate boxes on the scholarship application.

For a copy of the Huga Avalos scholarship application, email Hanna Wehrle at hwehrle@morrishospital. org or call 815-705-7021.

All applications for scholarships must be postmarked by April 13, 2026. Winners will be notified in May.

Starved Rock County Community Foundation establishes ‘HOF’ Fund

$1,000 grants will support agriculture, nonprofits in Seneca area

By KATE SANTILLAN ksantillan@shawmedia.com

The Starved Rock County Community Foundation recently partnered with the Maierhofer family to establish the “HOF” Fund in honor of late Seneca farmer Jim Maierhofer.

The fund was started with family donations and funds donated in Maierhofer’s name during his memorial service. The fund will award grants to nonprofit organizations

“Our dad was involved in so much in our community over the years. He was a volunteer fireman, an active member of the Lions Club, a 4-H leader, a huge supporter of his kids’ and grandchildren’s school activities, especially the FFA. He was constantly helping out wherever he could. We couldn’t decide how to specially honor him and continue his efforts, so we are asking the community of his descendants to provide the ideas and then take action.” Maierhofer’s son

Les Maierhofer, said in a news release. Priority will be given to Seneca area organizations that support agriculture, serve disadvantaged populations, provide safety, or help maintain the Seneca area’s appearance. Grants also will be awarded to organizations in communities where a Jim Maierhofer descendant resides.

The $1,000 grants will be awarded to nonprofit organizations to make small and impactful community improvements. HOF Fund applications are available and being accepted.

“Dad was never out to change the world, but his daily goal was to make someone’s world a little better,” Maierhofer’s son Jeff Maierhofer also said in the news release. “We are excited to work with the SRCCF and take advantage of their proven investment record and success in administering many funds.”

Starved Rock Country Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity that builds charitable funds to benefit Starved Rock Country places and people.

For more information, visit srccf. org/fund/hof-fund/ or call 815-252-2906, ext. 1.

lived there.

Hegeler Carus Mansion celebrates Women’s History

Tours, lace-making class and Mother’s

Day

brunch highlight women’s stories

By MARIBETH M. WILSON mwilson@shawmedia.com

The Hegeler Carus Mansion in La Salle is celebrating Women’s History with new tour experiences, events and workshops.

“Mothers, daughters, workers, and writers; the women of the Hegeler Carus Mansion were quite a busy bunch,” the mansion said in a statement.

Cover to Cover Tour: Women’s Edition

This March, the mansion will offer a 2.5-hour tour centered on women’s history. The tour begins in the Reception Room and covers areas of the home both public and private, all the way to the seventh-floor Cupola.

Visitors will see the mansion’s collection of gowns, gloves, letters and lace that help tell the story of these remarkable women. Many of these artifacts will be on display for the first time.

Tickets are $125 per person. Check the mansion’s website for dates and times.

Knot Your Average Lace Class

Learn the art of Tenerife needle knot lacemaking with Donna, a seasoned lace artist who has been working in lace for more than 20 years and is a member of the Lacemakers and Collectors Exchange.

In this three-hour class, participants will learn the fundamentals of lacemaking while creating a beautiful doily.

All materials are supplied and no experience is needed.

The class will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 21. Registration is $60 per person.

Mother’s Day Brunch

On Saturday, May 9, families are invited to enjoy an indoor picnic brunch at the Hegeler Carus Mansion.

Each party will receive a basket full of delightful sandwiches from Bruce and Ollie’s, potato chips and broccoli salad to share while sipping tea and coffee inside one of the rooms on the Main Floor of the Mansion. Sugar cookies from Blue Eyed Rascal will be provided for dessert.

Tickets are $65 per person.

For more information, visit hegelercarus.org or call the mansion.

An digital rendering shows what The Vue at Heritage Harbor could look like after construction completes this summer. The location is planned to be a new waterfront event venue under construction along the Illinois River in Ottawa and slated to open in August.

Ottawa’s Heritage Harbor releases renderings of waterfront event space

Upcoming venue is under construction, set to open in the late summer

By BILL FRESKOS bfreskos@shawmedia.com

Heritage Harbor in Ottawa has unveiled more details of its upcoming waterfront event venue, now officially named The Vue.

The venue will be open to host weddings, business parties and other private events in a modern space overlooking the harbor and the Illinois River.

Director of Hospitality Richard Crum said the name comes from the building’s elevated view of the water and landscape.

“‘The Vue’ captures exactly what makes this space special,” Crum said.

“It’s about perspective, the view of the harbor, the experience for guests and the moments people will remember long after their event. Just as importantly, the space was intentionally designed to be flexible, allowing it to transform seamlessly from an elegant wedding reception to a polished corporate gathering or community celebration.”

According to a news release, the venue will feature expansive windows and an open layout designed to accommodate a range of event styles and sizes.

The interior can be customized for both intimate ceremonies and large-scale receptions or business functions.

Construction is ongoing and the venue is slated to open this August. Renderings, events and booking information are available at Heritage Harbor’s website.

Neighborhood Forest offering free trees for children

Open registration through Mar 15

By MATHIAS WOERNER mwoerner@shawmedia.com

Neighborhood Forest is working with the Graves-Hume Library in Mendota to give adults the ability to get a free tree for their child and give them the joy of planting and watching their very own tree grow.

“We are on a mission to give every

OBITUARIES

DOUGLAS A. PETTENGER

Born: March 7, 1941 in Rochelle, IL

Died: February 16, 2026 in Mendota, IL

Douglas A. Pettenger, 84 of West Brooklyn passed away peacefully on February 16,2026 at OSF St. Paul Medical Center Mendota. Cremation rites have been accorded. Wasmer Funeral Home is privileged to assist the family.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, February 28 at 2pm at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in West Brooklyn with Rev. Randy Fronek officiating. Burial will be private.

Doug was born March 7,1941 in Rochelle to Warren and Vivian (Jeanblanc) Pettenger. He married Sandra Rogde on June 17,1961 at St. Mary’s in West Brooklyn. During Doug’s work career he was a Truck Driver for Area Erectors and Stouffers One Stop Dixon. He gave back to

child the priceless joy of planting and watching trees grow,” said co-founders of Neighborhood Forest, Vikas and Priya Narula. “Our dream is to reach every child in North America and eventually the world.”

Registration for a free tree for a child is open through Mar 15.

To register, support the mission, or donate, visit the Neighborhood Forest website.

Neighborhood Forest works today to inspire children to plant trees, care for nature and help create greener, healthier neighborhoods.

Browse our Princeton showroom for Kitchen & Bath ideas... Or call for a free appointment with one of our designers! info@somekitchen.com • 815.879.0604 • somekitchen.com 1619 N Main • Princeton, IL

his community as a longtime West Brooklyn Volunteer Firefighter and a Catholic Order of Forester member. He enjoyed farming his whole life and loved sharing his 4x4 paths he created through the woods at the farm. Doug will be forever missed by his daughter Paula (Marty) King of Compton, son Neal Pettenger of Dixon, 7 grandchildren: Julie (Phil) Bridges, Ted (Paola)King, Amber King, Nicole (Justin) Elam, Cally Lindenmier, Kurt Pettenger, Adam (Ryan) Pettenger, and 3 great grandchildren: Joseph Michael Thomas, Graham Wolfgang Bridges and Ruby Sue Bridges. He was preceded by his parents, wife Sandra 2/26/08, daughter Darla Lindenmier, and brother Curtis. Memorials may be directed to the family. Condolences may be left at wasmerfuneralhome.com

THIS WEEK ILLINOIS VALLEY HISTORY

Chicago Bears brought charity basketball to Illinois Valley in 1986

By SCOTT ANDERSON sanderson@shawmedia.com

Just weeks after winning Super Bowl XX, members of the Chicago Bears brought their talents to the hardwood in the Illinois Valley.

On Feb. 20, 1986, Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby hosted the “Good News Bears,” a charity basketball team made up of Chicago Bears players.

The IVCC gym was filled to capacity, with 1,400 fans braving heavy snow to attend the United Way fundraiser. Though some fans had hoped for bigger names from the Super Bowl roster, the evening proved memorable, especially for the many kids who gathered autographs and met their football heroes up close.

The Good News Bears featured a rotating squad of about six players who traveled frequently for exhibition games throughout the 1970s and 1980s, raising money for local causes.

The IVCC appearance marked the first of many stops in the Illinois Valley. Over the years, the team also played at Hall High School in Spring Valley, Prouty Gym in Princeton, and in La Moille, Ottawa and Streator.

Former Hall High School athletic director Frank Colmone remembers

bringing the team to Spring Valley in 1975 and again in 1980. One event alone raised $9,000 for the Hall High School booster club – a significant sum at the time.

“The booster club came up with the idea, reached out to Bears management and it was a huge success,” Colmone said.

Colmone remains close friends to this day with former Bears defensive tackle Jim Osborn, who played with Gary Fencik, Doug Plank, Greg Latta, Allan Ellis and Revie Sorey during the game at Hall.

At IVCC, the men’s basketball team was out of town that night and the weather was very bad. Fans were disappointed with the Bears turnout and expected bigger names. The Bears were led by player-coach Ray Cross. Joining him were Revie Sorey, offensive guard Stefan Humphries, cornerback Shaun Gayle and linebacker Dan Rains. Cornerback Mike Richardson was scheduled to appear but was unable to attend due to the severe weather.

Despite the snowy conditions and roster changes, the Good News Bears delivered an entertaining night of basketball. More importantly, the event raised funds for the United Way of the Illinois Valley. The Bears beat IVCC 60-54.

ABOVE LEFT: Chicago Bears offensive guard Steven Humphries plays against IVCC during the Good News Bears game on Feb. 20, 1986, at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby.

ABOVE: Chicago Bears linebacker Dan Rains sits with fans on the bleachers for the Good News Bears game on Feb. 20, 1986, at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby.

FAR LEFT: A fan holds a Chicago Bears finger foam souvenir during the Good News Bears game on Feb. 20, 1986, at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby.

LEFT: Chicago Bears players Revie Sorey, offensive guard Stefan Humphries, cornerback Shawn Gayle and linebacker

Dan Rains huddle for the Good News Bears game on Feb. 20, 1986, at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby.

Shaw Local News Network file photos

STATE

IDOC may have moved Sean Grayson out of state

By BETH HUNDSDORFER bhundsdorfer@capitolnewsillinois.com

Former Sangamon County Sheriff’s Deputy Sean Grayson, who was convicted last year of shooting an unarmed woman, has begun serving his 20-year prison sentence with the Illinois Department of Corrections in an undisclosed location.

IDOC confirmed that Grayson, 31, is in their custody but won’t confirm his whereabouts. A source close to the case said he has been moved out of state.

“For safety and security purposes, the Department will not discuss details concerning Individual Grayson,” an IDOC spokesman said in an email Thursday.

This could be for a number of reasons, including the high-profile nature of the crime, the fact that Grayson was a police officer, or that he is suffering from advanced forms of cancer and needs specialized care, one expert said.

“These types of individuals provide a special risk because there are plenty of people who will want to put out a hit on them or injure them simply because it will give them notoriety and status within the prison population,” said Lenard Vare, a former prison administrator and warden in the California and Nevada correctional systems who now works as a private consultant.

Grayson’s killing of an unarmed Sonya Massey in her kitchen drew nationwide attention, following the cases of George Floyd in Minneapolis and Breonna Taylor in Louisville, Kentucky, in 2020, making Grayson’s prosecution and eventual conviction national news.

Grayson was sentenced Jan. 29, three months after a jury convicted him of second-degree murder, and IDOC took him into custody that afternoon, Sangamon County Sheriff Paula Crouch said.

Grayson’s name does not show up in the Illinois Department of Corrections online search for inmates.

Secrecy is not unusual

Once in their custody, IDOC would consider Grayson a high-profile inmate with unique security risks, Vare said. Corrections officials typically move high-profile inmates, like Grayson, to federal or even out-of-state facilities where media coverage has been less

Following Massey’s death, questions emerged related to Grayson’s hiring. Media reported he received a general discharge from the Army, was twice convicted of driving under the influence and received verbal discipline related to an unauthorized high-speed chase and insubordination when he worked at the Logan County Sheriff’s Office.

Then-Sheriff Jack Campbell retired amid controversy over Grayson’s hiring, but recently defended the decision, stating the hiring was based on the information he had available to him.

Judge Ryan Cadagin moved Grayson’s trial to Peoria County due to pretrial publicity after Grayson’s attorneys asserted that he would not get a fair trial in Sangamon County. In October, a Peoria County jury found the former deputy guilty of second-degree murder.

He is battling cancer

intense, he said.

Legal agreements between states, known as interstate compact agreements, allow for these moves for security and other considerations, Vare said.

Disclosing Grayson’s whereabouts could make it more difficult for IDOC to retain that placement or to place him in the future. Under the interstate compact, a state may choose whether to accept an inmate from another state based on security or other placement concerns.

Grayson’s status as a former law enforcement officer also would make him a security risk in the general prison population, Vare said.

Grayson shares notoriety and former law enforcement status with former Chicago police officer Jason Van Dyke, who was also convicted of second-degree murder in the shooting of Laquan McDonald in 2016. Van Dyke was sentenced to 81 months in prison. IDOC released Van Dyke in 2022, after he served less than half of his sentence

in a prison outside of Illinois.

What happened that night?

Grayson and his partner responded to Sonya Massey’s home the night of July 6, 2024, after she called 911 to report a prowler. Family members have said that Massey, a Black woman, was suffering from a mental health crisis.

During the call, Grayson, and his partner cleared the outside of the house, finding no prowler, but entered Massey’s home to question her further. During that exchange and under Grayson’s direction, Massey went to the stove to remove a pot of boiling water.

As Massey did so she said, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.”

Grayson responded, “I’ll f--ing shoot you right in the f--ing face” and drew his gun. Seconds later, Grayson fired three times, fatally wounding Massey with one shot in the head.

Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser charged Grayson with first-degree murder in the days after the shooting.

In addition to the safety concerns because of his notoriety, Grayson requires medical treatment for the colon cancer he has been battling for years.

At his sentencing last month, Grayson’s attorney Mark Wykoff said the cancer had progressed and spread to his liver and lungs. Doctors also have diagnosed Grayson with rectal cancer.

While he was in the Macon County Jail in Decatur awaiting trial, records showed that deputies drove Grayson to a Springfield hospital where he received weekly treatments.

Any state considering accepting Grayson into their correctional system would have reviewed his medical records to determine whether they could medically accommodate him, Vare said.

There also are private facilities that accept inmates with challenging medical conditions that may accept Grayson in exchange for state payment.

“It’s kind of a rent-a-bed situation,” Vale said.

Life expectancy with stage 4 colon cancer varies, but the five-year survival rate when the cancer has spread to liver and lungs is around 13%, according to the American Cancer Association.

With time already served in county jail and if he receives day-for-day credit for good behavior, Grayson would be eligible for release in 8½ years.

CLASSIFIED PUBLIC AUCTION

SATU RDAY , FEBRUARY 28, 2026 10:00 AM START (CST )

HELD AT: 817 CLINTO N STRE ET, OTTAWA, IL 61350

GO TO AUCTIONZIP.COM FOR PICTURES AND LISTING

VETERINARY EQ UIPM ENT, KENNE LS AND STAINLESS STEEL CAGES, OFFICE, AP PLIANCES, MISC.

SE LLER: O TTAWA VETERINARY HOSP ITAL

BECKER AUCT ION SERVICE LA MOILLE, ILLINOIS 815-638-2686

Marquette’s Janick, Sandwich’s Corder win titles

Both are first-time champions

By BRIAN HOXSEY bhoxsey@shawmedia.com and J.T. PEDELTY jtpedelty@shawmedia.com

First year of high school wrestling. First Marquette Academy state finalist.

First Crusaders state champion.

Marquette freshman Wesley Janick on Saturday evening captured the Class 1A 120-pound state championship, wrapping up a 4-0 weekend at the IHSA Individual State Finals at the State Farm Center in Champaign-Urbana with a dominating 10-0 major decisioning of Fithian Oakwood’s Weston Frazier.

“It means a lot,” said Janick, who broke a scoreless tie through one period with an escape and a takedown in the second, then iced Marquette’s first wrestling IHSA state championship with another takedown and a nearfall in the third and final period. “I’m the first person to make the finals from my school and the first person to win it. I’ve set out to achieve this goal since I was 4 years old. ...

“I knew he was going to take doubles from space, so I just had to stay low and keep my hands in front of me. When he shoots, I had to circle, get to my re-attacks and execute.”

Before the title match, Janick won a 4-3 semifinal thriller over Hope Academy’s Nolan Callahan, a 15-3 major decision of PORTA’s Kainin Fillbright and a 5-4 opening-round decision of Murphysboro’s Paxton Pyatt.

Janick began the postseason winning the 1A Princeton Regional, but narrowly made the state finals. He finished fourth in the the Class 1A Byron Sectional, losing his opener and his finale but, most importantly, won the three bouts in between to claim the fourth and final advancing spot.

He did not lose a single match when it counted most, including the state championship.

“Staying calm, looking for all of my attacks and my re-attacks,” Janick said of what carried him to victory. “I knew he was after something I wanted, and he was in the way, so he had to be moved.”

Sandwich’s Cooper Corder won his first state title, as well, after taking down Unity Christian’s Clinton Ver -

Heecke in a 10-9 decision in the Class 1A 150-pound title match. The junior decided to take a moment and embrace his opponent for a few moments before getting his hand raised as a state champion.

For Corder, it was a sign of respect for the only wrestler who had been able to beat him this season.

“I know he’s been at the state tournament many times and that we were both first-time finalists,” Corder said. “I knew this meant a lot to him, and how much this win means to me. So I sat there, prayed with him and told him he’s got his college career to look forward to. He’s a great kid, and it was nice to go out there to be able to go battle him again.”

Corder lost to VerHeecke earlier in the season via fall, the only blemish on an otherwise spotless record on the season. And VerHeecke looked more than ready to put another one on it, getting

the first takedown in the first period.

Corder would go on to respond with a reversal, one of two he implemented in the match. His second one came with just 44 seconds remaining in the final period to give him a 10-8 lead, one he would not let go.

“I felt that title there,” Corder said. “I could have easily pushed him away and just gotten the one point, but I felt the reversal, and I thought I could keep my toe in and get some more time off the clock.”

It’s the first individual state title for the Indians since 2012, when Alphonso Vruno won the Class A 138-pound title. Corder took fourth place as a freshman and fifth as a sophomore.

Also Saturday, Marquette 215-pound junior Alex Schaefer opened with a 11-2 consolation quarterfinal victory over Richmond-Burton’s Shane Falasca, then dropped a 14-0 decision to Lena-

Winslow’s Oliver McPeek in the semifinals, before topping Yorkville Christian’s Jackson Allen 10-5 in the fifth-place match to medal.

Sandwich sophomore medal winner Joshua Kotalik was defeated 1-0 by Johnsburg’s Duke Mays in the fifthplace match at 175.

Seneca senior Landen Venecia fell just short of a medal after falling 10-1 to Byron’s Will Julian in the 190-pound consolation quarterfinals.

In Class 2A, Ottawa junior Wes Weatherford dropped an 18-2 decision to Marian’s Dan French in the 190-pound consolation quarterfinals, finishing a 2-2 showing at the IHSA State Finals and a 37-8 season. Both of Weatherford’s losses at state came at the hands of eventual medalists.

• Russ Hodges and Drake Lansman contributed to this report.

NIU coach Thomas Hammock announces resignation

Rob Harley takes over as interim coach

By EDDIE CARIFIO ecarifio@shawmedia.com

After seven seasons leading the Northern Illinois University football program, head coach Thomas Hammock has resigned to return to a coaching position in the National Football League, NIU Vice President/Director of Athletics and Recreation Sean T. Frazier announced on Wednesday.

“Representing the Cardinal and Black of Northern Illinois University as a player, alumnus, assistant coach and head coach has been the honor of my life,” Hammock said in a statement. “To Sean Frazier, my mentor, thank you for the incredible opportunity to lead, guide, and mentor the young men in this program over the past seven years. I hope I have left a lasting impact on our players, the way Coach Novak left one on me.

“These are exciting times for the Huskies as they enter the Mountain West Conference. I look forward to watching this team stay united, compete at a high level, and continue building under new leadership. I will always be proud to call NIU my alma mater, and I will always be cheering for the Huskies.”

Multiple online reports indicated that Hammock took a position with the Seattle Seahawks.

Frazier, who assumed sport administration duties for football in December, has promoted defensive coordinator Rob Harley to interim head coach.

Per NCAA rules, NIU players will get a 15-day window to enter the transfer portal starting five days after NIU announces its next head coach.

Hammock is 35-47 in seven years at NIU. The Huskies were 3-9 last year after making and winning bowl games in 2023 and 2024, the first back-to-back bowl wins since 2010 and 2011.

“This has always been my dream,” Hammock said in his NIU introductory press conference on January 19, 2019. “When I was a GA at Wisconsin [in 200304], I said I want to be the head coach at Northern Illinois University, because I knew what Coach [Joe] Novak did for me, and I want to do the same for others. It’s an unbelievable feeling to have the opportunity to come home to a place that I love, to the school that has meant so

much to me.”

This will leave the Huskies looking for a new coach about a month before the start of spring practices, which has not been announced yet. Last year, they began on March 24 and generally begin in late March each year.

The new coach will also have to navigate the team’s move into the Mountain West. The Huskies were to begin play in the new conference beginning this fall. The schedule has not been announced yet.

Home and away opponents were set, but that was before the league announced earlier this month the addition of North Dakota State as a football-only member starting in the 2026 season.

Hammock was the first Black head coach in NIU history and the first graduate to lead the program at the FBS level.

Before taking over in 2019, he was the running backs coach with the Baltimore Ravens.

NIU was his first head coaching job. He went 5-9 in his first season, then 0-6 using an incredibly young roster in the COVID-shortened 2020 season.

With most of those same players, the Huskies won the MAC title in 2021, going 9-5 and losing the Cure Bowl.

Injuries derailed the 2022 season, and the Huskies went 3-9. They went 7-6 in 2023 and 8-5 in 2024 with a seniorheavy group.

The 2024 season included one of, if not the biggest, wins in program history when the Huskies defeated Notre Dame, 16-14. The Irish were ranked No. 5 at the time, and their only other loss that season was to Ohio State in the National Championship game.

MENDOTA ROUNDUP

BOYS BASKETBALL

Mendota 78, Kewanee 42: Drew Becker scored 19 points as the Trojans rolled to a Three Rivers Conference East Division victory Tuesday in Kewanee.

Aden Tillman had 15 points, Cole Tillman contributed 11 point.

Dane Doyle and Johan Cortez each added 10 points for Mendota, which led 53-15.

The Trojans are 26-5 overall and finished 9-1 in the conference to earn a share of the league title with Newman. – Shaw Local News Network

SPORTS

TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY

1964: Muhammad Ali wins his first world heavyweight boxing title when Sonny Liston fails to come out for round 7 at Convention Hall, Miami Beach.

Wednesday, February 25, 2026

TAKING TITLES

Two wrestlers take home their first titles after winning at the IHSA wrestling finals / 22