Polo_Tri-County_Press-01-23-2026

POLO TRI-COUNTY PRESS

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The Tri-County Press, Ogle County News and oglecountynews.com are a division of Shaw Media. Ogle County Newspapers also prints the Mt. Morris Times, Forreston Journal and Oregon Republican Reporter.

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December honors go to Jada Garcia

Senior participates in Student Council, NAMI and Spanish Club

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Jada Garcia recently was named the December Student of the Month at Polo Community High School. She received a scholarship from the Polo Schools Foundation for her efforts.

Garcia is the daughter of Jose and Emily Garcia.

The PCHS senior participates in Student Council, National Alliance on Mental Illness, B.L.I.N.D., Spanish Club, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, and National Honor Society. After high school, she plans to pursue a career in journalism.

Upon receipt of the award, Garcia filled out a list of questions about her future and school experience.

What does it take to be a successful high school student?

Time-management skills, caffeine and dedication.

What is your life’s philosophy?

Growth requires vulnerability.

What class do you find really engaging and why?

I really enjoy English Composition, taught by Mrs. Coy. I enjoy analyzing pieces of literature and media and writing about them.

What are your career and post-graduation plans?

After graduation, I am planning on attending a four-year college to major in journalism.

What are your two favorite extracurricular, volunteer or community activities you participate in?

My two favorite activities I participate in are Spanish Club and Student Council. Spanish Club is a space that encourages connection and has given me many memories with my friends. Student Council has taught me that being involved in your community is important, no matter how small.

Please share a moment, group event or activ-

ity at school that was meaningful or memorable.

The first half of field day, the school hosts games for students with special needs. The energy is usually high, and it’s nice seeing the school come together to

make the day fun for the kids. What is your hope for the future?

I hope that I am working a job I enjoy and can continue to support my friends and family with their aspirations.

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Ogle County prosecutors: Text messages with girlfriend showed ex-husband’s intent to kill

By EARLEEN HINTON ehinton@shawmedia.com

Text messages between a Stillman Valley man and his girlfriend that prosecutors say show he intended to kill his ex-wife were read to Ogle County jurors Friday, Jan. 16, over objections by defense attorneys who argued the messages were taken out of context.

Illinois State Police Lt. and Special Agent Nate Macklin testified to messages and other data extracted from cellphones used by Duane “DC” Meyer and his girlfriend, Catherine Mearns, in 2016 before Margaret “Maggie” (Rosko) Meyer was found dead inside her Byron home.

Macklin’s testimony came on the fourth day of the jury trial for Meyer, 43, who is charged with killing Maggie, 31, and then setting her home on fire with their 3-year-old son inside.

Meyer, referred to as DC during the trial, is charged with four counts of first-degree murder, two counts of aggravated arson and one count of concealment of a homicidal death in connection with an Oct. 19, 2016, house fire in which Maggie was found dead.

The couple’s 3-year-old son, Amos Meyer, who was in an upstairs bedroom in the home at the time of the fire, was later pronounced dead at a Rockford hospital.

Meyer has pleaded not guilty to all the charges and has been held in the Ogle County Jail since his arrest Oct. 9, 2019. Maggie, a teacher at the Chana Education Center at the time of her death, filed for divorce in 2014. Court records show the divorce was finalized in September 2016.

On Jan. 16, Assistant Ogle County State’s Attorney Matthew Leisten displayed a selection of text messages on the courtroom’s video screen, with Macklin reading the content from some of them.

Most of the messages read were text conversations between DC and Mearns days, and sometimes months, before the fire.

Some of those texts included derogatory comments about Maggie from DC. One dated Aug. 15, 2016, read: “I {expletive} hate this {expletive}. I hate a lot right now. Idk what’s going to happen today. I hate that you hate me. Since meeting you all I’ve wanted was to be that man that got to spend his life next to

investigators used for extracting the data from the cellphones was “widely accepted in the forensic community” and had been used many times in court cases.

Macklin said the software was designed to parse information accurately.

After reviewing case law and arguments, Ogle County Judge John “Ben” Roe denied DeRango’s repeated objections.

The state’s case resumed Tuesday, Jan. 20, due to Monday, Jan. 19, being a court holiday.

The trial is estimated to take another two weeks.

Friday morning recap

Gregory Castronovo, an investigator for the State Fire Marshal’s Office, said the fire was extremely heavy on Maggie’s mid-torso and the entire surface of her body was damaged beyond recognition.

you. I love you to no end. Your (sic) good bad and ugly. I hope I won’t need bail. See you on the other side.”

Mearns, who was listed in DC’s phone as “My Hopes and Dreams,” responded: “Yep. Have fun in court. Go ahead and kill the (expletive). I’ll visit you in prison.”

On Aug. 22, 2016, Meyers texted Mearns: “If I did go to jail would you be there for me when I got out?”

Another message, dated July 30, 2016, from DC to Mearns said: “Hate is not a strong enough word for her. That piece of (expletive) will be gone or I’ll die trying” to which Mearns replied: “Yeah, you’ll die trying.”

In other messages, DC and Mearns complained how the relationship with Maggie and Amos was impacting their relationship. They also complained about other family members.

Maggie, who was listed in DC’s phone as “Saggy,” sent DC a message on Sept. 27, 2016, in what appeared to be coordinating visitation with Amos. That message concluded with: “Lastly, you are seven weeks behind on child support and half of his tuition is due on the 1st.”

Defense attorney Christopher DeRango objected to the text messages being entered as evidence, arguing that prosecutors had chosen just a few texts to show jurors and taken them out of context.

And he criticized the extraction pro-

cedure used by state police to retrieve the messages as well as the state’s interpretation of those messages.

“You don’t have any idea of the context of those texts,” DeRango said to Macklin during cross examination, accusing the state’s attorney’s office of choosing which texts for Macklin to read.

“Correct,” Macklin replied.

“We have no idea what those other texts said,” DeRango argued, while scrolling through scores of other text messages extracted. “To say the least, they are open for interpretation and some are six months prior to the fire.”

DeRango argued that texts chosen by the state were selected for a “dramatic reading” by Macklin and other texts not selected showed “perfectly normal” exchanges. He characterized some of texts as DC’s exchanges with an “unstable girlfriend who upsets him.”

DeRango questioned Macklin for 90 minutes after arguing that the state had not laid a proper foundation and had not shown a clear change-of-custody path between police agencies.

Leisten said the software used to recover data from cellphones was widely accepted and the data recovered was then placed into a readable format and had not been manipulated.

“We do believe we have established a sufficient chain of custody,” Leisten argued.

Macklin testified that the process

He said the “V” burn pattern from the couch indicated to him that the origin of the fire was on the sofa in the first-floor living room where Maggie’s charred body was found in the morning fire. He said damage to the ceiling of the basement – directly below where the sofa was located – also pointed to the fire starting on the sofa.

He said he found no evidence that the fire started from electrical or mechanical issues or a cigarette or candle, with the greatest amount of damage found in the center of Maggie’s body. He said smoke and carbon monoxide from the fire traveled upstairs to the bedroom where Amos was asleep.

Castronovo said the outline of the toddler’s body that could be seen on the mattress in his crib was caused by soot from the smoke. The fire smoldered for some time, but Castronovo could not say as to how long or when it started. He said he responded to the scene after the fire was reported at 6:34 a.m.

Sam South, who worked with DC at the Nippon Sharyo plant in Rochelle in 2016, testified that DC made a comment to him before Maggie’s death when he referred to a 10-foot-by-10-foot wooden box located on the floor of the mechanical area of the factory. South said DC said: “If I could get her in this box all my troubles would be over.”

See MEYER TRIAL on page 4

The Board Room celebrates grand opening in Mt. Morris

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Customers, friends and Mt. Morris Village Board and Economic Development Corporation members filled the storefront at 103 S. Wesley Ave. in Mt. Morris on Saturday, Jan. 10, to celebrate the grand opening of The Board Room.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony signaled the official opening of The Board Room - Games, Crafts & Collectibles, a place to play and purchase trading cards and tabletop games.

Owner Ashton Rutherford called it a reopening at the refurbished storefront in Mt. Morris, a move from his former location in Oregon. Remaining in the Mt. Morris/Oregon area is important to him, he said.

“I grew up in Mt. Morris and Oregon,” Rutherford said. “Went to school in Mt. Morris and Oregon. To me, it’s one community – both are my hometowns – and I want to give back by having my store here.”

Rutherford said local players don’t have to travel to find a store or play with others, an opportunity appreciated by customer James Wood, who waited outside in the cold for the grand opening as a nod to waiting outside a store for a new product release.

Rutherford plans to host events for both serious competitors and casual players.

• MEYER TRIAL

Continued from page 3

On cross examination, South could not recall the date the comment was made, did not report the comment to anyone because he didn’t think it was serious and thought DC, who was his boss, was just “venting.”

On Thursday, Jan. 15, two forensic pathologists testified they found ante-mortem injuries on Maggie’s body that occurred before her death. Both said she died before her body was found in the living room of the home, but could not give a definitive cause of death.

Dr. Mark Peters of Rockton said Maggie’s body was burned “100 percent,” with charring covering her entire body. He said some of the injuries she suffered were from the heat of the fire, which caused limbs to be distorted and one femur to break.

Jurors were shown graphic photos of

Customers, friends and Mt. Morris Village Board and Economic Development Corporation members

Mt. Morris on Jan. 10 to celebrate the grand opening of The Board Room.

“We are blessed by this (local gaming) community,” Rutherford said. “They are very welcoming to all play-

ers, experienced and new. That’s different from some places. I give all the credit to my player base.”

Learn more about The Board Room – Games, Crafts & Collectibles at theboardroomgcc.com and on social media.

Maggie’s body, which had no identifying features visible.

Peters and Dr. Hilary McElligott of the DuPage County Coroner’s Office said no soot was found in her throat or lungs, indicating she was dead when the fire occurred. Examinations of her internal organs found fluid in her lung, which was indicative of a prolonged death, possibly by strangulation.

Peters and McElligott said they both found hemorrhaging on the lower part of her scalp and on her back posterior shoulder and neck. Examinations of her skin for other areas of pre-death injuries were made impossible by the severe charring from the fire.

McElligott said the charring on Maggie’s body could have masked other injuries.

However, she said an internal examination under the skin showed hemorrhaging and clotted blood on the skull, beneath the scalp, which indicated some type of blunt trauma before she died.

DNA samples were unable to be taken from the body due to the “significant disruption of tissue” because of the extensive thermal injuries, McElligott said.

Peters said Amos died by asphyxia from carbon monoxide from the fire, indicated by soot in his larynx. In photos presented as evidence by prosecutors, Amos was shown lying on his side, his features intact.

Also testifying on Jan. 15 was Timothy Gray, a senior analyst with Verizon, who was called to testify about cellphone records requested in 2016 by investigators.

Gray started to testify to spreadsheets that prosecutors say listed calls, texts and cell tower locations, but defense attorney Patrick Moore raised many objections as to the accuracy of the data and the foundation for how it was provided on a spreadsheet. That issue was argued for 90 minutes outside the presence of the jury.

Leisten argued the date on the spreadsheets was compiled from data secured from a 2016 search warrant from the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office.

After reviewing arguments and case law, Roe allowed Leisten to continue questioning Gray over DeRango’s objection.

Prosecutors have argued that their evidence – which includes more cellphone data – will show DC planned to end Maggie’s life.

The defense has argued that text messages sent by DC before the deaths were only part of a “contentious” divorce and not indicative of anything nefarious.

Prosecutors said they will prove DC “attacked and murdered” Maggie while Amos was sleeping in his upstairs bedroom.

Defense attorneys told jurors that while the deaths were a “heartbreaking tragedy,” DC was not responsible and the state’s case is based solely on circumstantial evidence.

Rochelle man dies, 1 injured in Sunday morning fire

Sheriff: Preliminary cause of fire was supplemental heat source

By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com

A Rochelle man was identified as the victim of an early Sunday morning fire on South Thorpe Road west of Rochelle, Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle said Monday.

James Supancic, 84, of Rochelle was killed in the blaze, VanVickle said. The Ogle County Sheriff’s Office and area fire personnel were called at 2:07 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 18, to 6080 S. Thorpe Road for the structure fire.

Upon arrival, the second story of the house was completely engulfed in flames. The Rochelle Fire Department extinguished the fire with assistance from surrounding agencies.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office Detective Bureau and the Illinois State Fire Marshal. VanVickle said the preliminary cause of the fire is suspected to be a supplemental heat source.

Rochelle Fire Department Chief Dave Sawlsville said Monday that after arriving to find the home’s second floor fully engulfed in flames, fire personnel attempted to bring a ladder to the upstairs windows to find Supancic – to no avail.

“With the wind and the home being in the country, the fire spread pretty quickly,” Sawlsville said, “That was a situation where we wouldn’t put firefighters on the second floor due to safety. We had more response come and the home was fully involved with fire, and we took a more defensive approach. We had to fight the fire from outside. The rest of our time there was spent on debris removal and locating the deceased.”

Sawlsville said 911 was called by a second resident in the home. That resident was taken to Rochelle Community Hospital and then OSF St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford with burns and smoke inhalation.

The home at 6080 S. Thorpe Road was a total loss. No other structures on the property were damaged. Ogle County Animal Control took some dogs from the property into their care and there were farm animals on the property, including geese, miniature horses and goats. Sawlsville said the coming days will show how those ani-

mals were affected by smoke inhalation.

No first responders were injured, Sawlsville said.

“We had to truck in water because there are no hydrants in that area and we relied on our mutual-aid partners for that,” Sawlsville said. “That was good to have. It was super cold. There were high winds. I think the fire got a pretty good head start on us. We were behind when we got there. We focused on getting to the trapped individual when we got there rather than on the fire. That let it grow.”

Along with RFD and the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office, responding agencies included the Rochelle Police Department, Hillcrest Fire Department, Oregon Fire Department, Stillman Valley Fire Department, LynnScott-Rock Fire Department, Byron Fire Department, New Milford Fire Department, Ashton-Franklin Center Fire, Monroe Center Fire Department, DeKalb Fire Department, Shabbona Fire Department, Paw Paw Fire Protection District, Blackhawk Fire Protection District, Ogle County Emergency Management, Ogle County Animal Control, Illinois Department of Transportation, Flagg Township and the Illinois State Fire Marshal.

“You can’t overstate the importance of support from other agencies,” Sawlsville said. “It was cold and in the middle of the night and a lot of the people who came and helped are paid on call.

It’s not their career. They showed up when it was below zero in the middle of the night. We had tremendous support.

I want to send heartfelt sympathy to the family of the deceased. It’s always a tragedy to have a loss like that.”

Mt. Morris PAG to hold ‘Paint Your Wagon’ auditions Jan. 29 and 31

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

The Mt. Morris Performing Arts Guild will hold auditions Jan. 29 and 31 for its performance of “Paint Your Wagon.”

“Paint Your Wagon” is a Broadway musical comedy with book and lyrics by Alan J. Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe. The story centers on a miner and his daughter and follows the lives and loves of the people in a min-

ing camp in Gold Rush-era California. Popular songs from the show include “Wand’rin’ Star,” “I Talk to the Trees” and “They Call the Wind Maria.”

The musical first ran on Broadway in 1951 and in the West End in 1953. In 1969, the film version, also titled “Paint Your Wagon,” was released. It had a highly revised plot and some new songs composed by Lerner and André Previn. A further updated Broadway version was produced in 2015.

The cast size for this production is

large with singing and acting roles for 20 or more cast members.

Auditions for the Mt. Morris Performing Arts Guild production will be from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, and 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Allure of Pinecrest Grove Auditorium, 500 Evergreen Lane, Mt. Morris.

Those auditioning should be prepared for a cold read from the script that will be provided and a song of their choosing from any period of at least 32

measures. An accompanist will be present.

Rehearsals will begin March 1 and traditionally are Monday through Thursday. Performance dates are Friday through Sunday, April 17-19 and April 24-26.

Beth Nelson Chase is the director and musical director for this production.

For more information, visit the Performing Arts Guild Facebook Page or leave a message at 815-734-2103.

U of I Extension offers free family life program in Ogle County Jan. 28

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

University of Illinois Extension family life educator Kara Schweitzer will offer a free family life program in January, providing community members with research-informed guidance on aging, caregiving and overall well-being.

The program will be at 10 a.m.

IT’S YOUR WRITE

Find the cost of freedom

To the Editor:

On May 4, 1970, the Ohio National Guard opened fire on students at Kent State University rallying to oppose the expansion of the Vietnam War.

Twenty-nine National Guard troops fired 67 rounds that killed four students and wounded another nine. The National Guard were mostly 19- and 20-year-olds. They were firing on 19- and 20-year-old students.

On Jan. 7, 2026, Renee Good was shot to death by an ICE agent after she had stopped to support her neighbor in Minneapolis. Her partner is quoted as saying, “We had whistles, they had guns.”

A report was prepared by the President’s Commission on Campus Unrest. Dated Sept. 26, 1970, it said in part, “... to respond to peaceful protest with repression and brutal tactics is dangerously unwise. It makes extremists of moderates, deepens the divisions in the nation, and increases the chances that future protests will be violent. We believe it urgent that Americans of all convictions draw back

Wednesday, Jan. 28, at the Rock River Center, 810 S. 10th St. in Oregon. Registration is required by calling the Rock River Center at 815-732-3252.

The “Caregiver Self-Care” program will cover the challenges that caregivers face and share practical ways to ease stress, prevent burnout, and take better care of yourself along the way.

Caregivers not only perform

hands-on tasks such as bathing, cooking or handling financial matters, but they also provide emotional support and help with decision-making related to care.

Caregivers may have their own children, grandchildren, work and other responsibilities. Because caregivers often are so busy, they tend to overlook their own needs. They may not get enough sleep, nutritious meals, physical

activity or social time with friends. They also may not seek health care or find time for themselves.

The University of Illinois Extension is committed to supporting individuals, families and communities through accessible, research-based education. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in programming, call Schweitzer at 815-632-3611.

from the brink. We must recognize even our bitter opponents as fellow Americans with rights upon which we cannot morally or legally encroach and as fellow human beings whom we must not club, stone, shoot or bomb.” (page 14)

The similarities between these two incidents are too painfully obvious. What was said in 1970 could just as well have been said today. We do not need more repeats of such abhorrence. A functioning democracy cannot be captive to the whims of an authoritarian strongman who benefits from civic disengagement and seems to relish it. Listening to him hurts; it does not help.

It is up to each person to find the cost of freedom. Stephen Stills put music to those words first penned during the Civil War era. More of the song, “Hear the past a callin’, from Armageddon’s side. When everyone’s talkin’ and no one is listenin’. How can we decide? ... Find the cost of freedom, buried in the ground, Mother Earth will swallow you, lay your body down.”

Rev. Ronald D. Larson

Mt. Morris

A busy and sad time at the Polo Historical Society

POLO HISTORY

Betty

Obendorf

Recently we lost Nancy Parks from our church and Max Snook and Richard Jacks from our community.

Nancy was a warm, loving person with welcoming hands as we greeted each other on Sunday morning. We will miss her at St. Mark’s because she always was there.

Richard was a member of the Polo Historical Society and loved our programs. He always had something to offer, and I enjoyed conversations with him.

I remember Max from all the Memorial Day parades and his wife, Judy, was quite a cook and involved in the

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Polo Area Community Theatre to host trivia night Jan. 24

Polo Area Community Theatre is hosting a trivia night Saturday, Jan. 24, at The Polo Room, 712 N. Division Ave., Polo.

Teams of four to six people ages 13 and older will compete in 10 categories. Register your team on the PACT Facebook event or by emailing info@polotheatre.org. Registered teams get a free answer. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top two teams. Food and drinks are available for purchase from The Polo Room. Tickets will be available for several raffle items. Check-in is from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Trivia starts at 7 p.m. Cost is $10 per team member at the door.

Presbyterian Church. I remember calling her one day for her recipe for raisin sauce to go on ham.

She launched forth with great gusto in her recipe. Then I heard the words, “Plump the raisins” and on she went. I said, “Stop, Judy! What do you mean by plump the raisins?” She said, “Do you mean that you have never plumped raisins!” I got quite a lesson on how to plump raisins and the sauce is delicious. I never forgot Judy. In fact, I need to get some ham and make some raisin sauce.

The Freeport community also will miss Dr. Mike Merry, who was a caring person in the medical world. Pam came up from the Bloomington area to spend some time with me and to attend the services for Dr. Merry. When we went to the visitation, it was good seeing Mike’s sisters once more.

I taught with Anna Marie Merry

and I loved going to her home at Christmas. She did not have her tree in the usual spot but put it in the double doorway leading into the living room. One could view it from all sides and I always thought, how unique. I loved visiting with her and she brought grandkids out to our house in Eagle Point to play with kittens. The years have gone by quickly as we remember stories and memories from the past.

My son, Steve, also was here and Pam and Steve enjoyed visiting. They were both classmates of Pam Printz Merry.

Steve has put away Santa Claus from my porch and other Christmas things. Slowly Christmas will be packed away for another year and Valentine’s Day is on the horizon. I am in no hurry since right now I am focusing on a box of old photos Kyala brought to the museum.

As I pulled a few from the box, I realized right away that this was part of the Garman family. I remember Iva Good Garman Engle and her girls. Marcie was part of the Polo Historical Society and Francis was in my Class of 1950. We were confirmed in the Lutheran church together. Linda is helping me with information and obituaries.

I also want to thank Larry Weaver for bringing in to the museum a flag in honor of Max Snook. He will look after our flagpole at Aplington House. I also want to thank Marcia Wooden for the delicious loaf of zucchini bread during the holidays. They bring in my garbage cans from the street when my driveway is icy. I do appreciate the help.

• Betty Obendorf is a retired teacher and volunteer for the Polo Historical Society.

February Finds Antique Market is Feb. 7 in Mt. Morris

The 14th annual February Finds Antique Market will be Saturday, Feb. 7.

The event will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Mt. Morris Moose Lodge 1551 Family Center, 485 E. Hitt St. Admission is $4. Children 12 and younger are free.

More than 20 dealers will feature items such as retro decor, primitives, local vintage advertising, glassware, pottery, art work, old toys, books, record albums, jewelry, furniture and holiday collectibles.

Bobbi’s Country Catering will have baked goods for sale. The Moose Lodge will have food and drinks available to purchase.

– Shaw Local News Network

Jan. 12-16, 2026

Warranty Deeds

• Cynthia Kay Miller, Jessica A. Miller, and Jennifer M. Miller to Daniel S. Augenstine and Leslie A. Augestine, 1 Parcel: 16306 W Canada Rd, Polo, $110,000

• Caryn A. Huber to Benjamin W. Covell and Brooke M. Covell, 1 Parcel: 815 Hampton Dr, Byron, $295,000

• Billie J. Osborne to Harrison Unlimited Llc, 2 Parcels: 225 E Ave G, Rochelle, and 227 E Ave G, Rochelle, $140,000

• Gary Leslie Poliska and Ronda M. Poliska to Kaleb A. Knight, 1 Parcel: 292 N Meridian Rd, Chana, $40,000

• Christopher A. Tucker to Byron Lopez, 1 Parcel, 521 N. Walnut St., Byron, $240,000

• Max C. Schulte to Graciela Aguilera, 1 Parcel: 226 S Main St, Rochelle, $70,000

• Juan C. Rubio and Rachel J. Rubio to John W. Campbell and Rebekah A. Campbell, 1 Parcel: 753 Golden Prairie Dr, Davis Junction, $242,000

• Dustin K. Spears and Sarah A. Spears to Greg W. Cross and Carol A. Jones, 1 Parcel in Eagle Point Township: 13-01-

100-008, $14,000

• Michael J. Rokos and Susan M. Rokos to Joshua J. Jacobson, 2 Parcels: 413 Slippery Rock Dr, Dixon, and 411 Slippery Rock Dr, Dixon, $5,000

• Jacob G. Terry to Jesus Fuerte Huerta, 1 Parcel: 822 N 12th St, Rochelle, $128,000

• Beach Dreamers Llc to Giuseppe Alfano and Concetta Alfano, 1 Parcel: 128 W 2nd St, Byron, $215,000

• Alan G. Titterton and Pondalea N. Titterton to Michael T. Snodgrass and Malia R. Snodgrass, 2 Parcels: 8686 N Glacier Dr, Byron, and 8692 N Glacier Dr, Byron, $276,000

Quit Claims

• Mary Ellen Fleeger to Mary Ellen Fleeger, 1 Parcel: 736 Kristi Dr, Byron, $0.00

• Veronica J. Johnson to Veronica J. Johnson, 1 Parcel: 15987 E Big Mound Rd, Lindenwood, $0.00

• Joseph D. Szakalski Jr. to Beth P. Szakalski, 1 Parcel: 1103 Old Hunter Run, Byron, $0.00

• Curtis R. Timmer and Jennifer A. Timmer to Dylon C. Timmer Trustee, Annastasia G. Timmer Trustee, and

Timmer Family Irrev Tr., 1 Parcel: 02-09400-003, $0.00

• Donald A. Gramer Jr. Trustee, Loretta M. Gramer Trustee, and Donald A Jr & Loretta Gramer Family Tr. To Donald A. Gramer Jr. and Loretta M. Gramer, 1 Parcel: 642 Heritage Dr, Stillman Valley, $0.00

• Paragon Pork Inc to Paragon Pork Ag Llc, 1 Parcel: 101 Stone Hill Road, Chana, $0.00

Trustee’s Deeds

• Kenneth D. Lingbeck Trustee and Patricia M. Lingbeck Revocable Living Tr to Diane K. Hemmersbach and Kenneth D. Lingbeck, 2 Parcels in Maryland Township: 03-21-400-006 and 03-28-200-004, $0.00

• Charles R. Hall Trustee and Carol K. Sovern Tr. To Charles P. Hubbard and Lorraine A. Hubbard, 1 Parcel: 12601 S. Kings Rd, Rochelle, $1,119,200

• Donald R. Etnyre Trustee, Nancy T. Etnyre Trustee, Donald R. Etnyre Rev Tr and Nancy T. Etnyre Rev Tr to Steven Bamborough, 1 Parcel: 403 E Webster St, Polo, $0.00

• Stillman Bank Trustee and Alvin D.

Oltmanns Tr. To Charles R. Winterton Trustee and Charles E. Winterton Tr., 3 Parcels in Byron Township: 04-35-400002, 04-36-300-012, and 04-36-300-023, $875,533

• Alan G. Titterton Trustee, Pondalea N. Titterton Trustee, and Alan G & Pondalea N Titterton Tr. to Alan G. Titterton and Pondalea N. Titterton, 2 Parcels: 8686 N. Glacier Drive, Byron, and 8692 N Glacier Dr, Byron, $0.00

• Elsie A. Reif Trustee and Reif Tr101 to Dan Reif, 2 Parcels: 207 S Chestnut Ave, Forreston, and 209 S. Chestnut Ave., Forreston, $0.00

Deeds in Trust

• Marcelino Millan and Maria Victoria Andrade Ortiz to Marcelino Millan Trustee and Marcelino Millan, 1 Parcel: 806 Midway CT, Oregon, $0.00

Executor’s Deeds

• Estate of Lesta F. Harmon and Lesta F. Harmon Deceased By Executor to Robert Rupnow, 1 Parcel: 502 S Franklin Ave, Polo, $65,000

– Shaw Local News Network

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

OVARIAN cancer after use of TALC products such as BABY POWDER or SHOWER TO SHOWER, you may be entitled to compensation

Contact Charles Johnso n 1-800-535-5727

PROFES SIONAL TRUCK DRIVER -

Dry & Liquid Bulk (Local & Long Distance)

Holper Trucking - Ohio, IL Full Time

About the Role:

We are currently seeking a reliable Truck Driver to join our team

T COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL on, ILLINOIS N Plaintiff DEVELOPMENT NON-RECORD HE RIFF'S SALE

t purs uant to a ov e entitled cause ry 20, 2026, at the 202 S 1st Street, der for cash, the following desc ribed mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 05-32-161003. Commonly known as 105 E. DIAMON D ST., BYRON, IL 61010. The real estate is: single family residence . If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Secti on 18.5 of the Condominium Prope rty Act. Sale terms: At sale, the bidder must have 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property is sold AS IS subject to all liens or encumbrances The property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospecti ve bidders are admonished to check the circuit court case record, property tax record and the title record to verify all information before bidd ing.

This role involves the safe and timely hauling of dry bulk and liquid bulk materials, both locally and over long distances

Opportunity is available to make up to $100,000+ a year. You'll be operating well-maintained equipment, delivering to a variety of industr ial, agricultural, and commercial clients.

Responsibi lities:

Haul dry and liquid bulk loads safely and on time

Run a mix of local and long-distance routes

Keep the rig clean and in good shape (we'll help with that)

Handle paperwork and basic load checks

Communicate clearly with dispatch and custo mers

Requirements:

Valid CDL Class A license with tanker endorsement

Clean driving record and up- to-date medical card

Ability to work flexible hours, including overnights and weekends as needed

Strong communication and time management skills

Intere sted? Let's Talk

Call Jacob at: 815-878-40 14 - or -

Email us at: J.holper@aol.com

No Business is too small to advertise

For informati on call Sales Department at Plaintiff's Attorney, Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 13010 Morris Road, Suite 450, Alpharetta, Georgia 30004. (708) 668-4410 ext. 52109. 24 -235418 SHERIFF I3279738 Forres ton Journal Jan. 16, 23, 30, 2026

OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS LAND AUCTION

The Asselborn real estate is located 3 miles northwest of Rochelle, IL. It is further described as being located in Sections 4 & 5, T40N-R1E, Flagg Township, Ogle County, IL. Farmers & Investors, don't miss these quality soils located close to excellent grain market outlets, with an open lease for the upcoming 2026 crop year!

ASSELBORN IRR TRUST KATHLEEN ASSELBORN, TRUSTEE

Representing Attorney: Debra A. Delia | Oliver Close, LLC Suite 300 Waterside Center, 124 N Water St., Rockford, IL 61107 | (815) 963-0009

Auction Managers: Kevin Haas (309) 264-7767 & Eric Ifft (309) 825-3730

Citizens Bank, Vs. Diana L. Dennis; NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE Judgment of cause on 11/14/2025, on February County Public 61061, or in a County of Ogle the highest bid described real Improved with 139 S Maple Ave Sale terms: 10% at the close Judicial sale Municipality Re for each $1,000 purchaser not wit hin twenty -f to general real taxes levied a without any r epre and without re The sale is further If the property place after 1/1/2007, will be require under The Con and (g)(4) If the property purchasers othe any assessment Property Act , 765 If the sale is s sale shall be en Purchaser shall Mortgagor, the Upon payme nt receive a Certi to a Deed to The

responsibility/exp individuals prese The property makes no repr Prospective bid to verify all informa IF YOU ARE HAVE THE RIG DAYS AFTER

ILLINOIS MOR For informati on attorney: Codilis Road, Suite 100, Please refer to I3279458

EAL ESTATE

JUDICIAL LLINOIS

DEVELOPMENT NON-RECORD

RIFF'S SALE

purs uant to a entitled cause 0, 2026, at the S 1st Street, for cash, the I.N. 05-32-161ST., BYRON, IL esidence . If the mmon interest n a mortgagee subsection (g-1) of ct. Sale terms: certified funds, o refunds. The encumbrances

ion. Prospecti ve ircuit court case rd to verify all

aintiff's Attorney, artners, PLLC, eorgia 30004.

F 23, 30, 2026

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT F OR THE 15TH JUDICIAL

CIRCUIT OG LE COUNTY - OREGO N, ILL INOIS

Citizens Bank, N.A. PLAINTIFF

Vs. Diana L. Dennis; et. al. DEFENDANTS No. 2025FC26

NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 11/14/2025, the Sheri ff of Ogle County, Illinois will on February 20, 2026 at the hour of 10:00 AM at Ogle County Public Safety Complex 202 S 1st St. Oregon, IL 61061, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of Ogle and State of Illinois , sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate: PIN 05-31-328-007

Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 139 S Maple Ave Byron, IL 61010

Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the aucti on; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calc ulated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fract ion thereof of the a mount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due wit hin twenty -four (24) hours. The subjec t property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any r epresentati on as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. If the property is a condominium and the foreclos ure takes place after 1/1/2007, purchaser s other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)

If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act , 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

If the sale is set aside for any reason , the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit pai d. The Purchaser shall hav e no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee 's attorney. Upon payme nt in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, wh ich will entitle the pur chaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmat ion of the sale. The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in pos session of the subject premises.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all information

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

For informati on: Examine the court file or contac t Plai ntiff's attorney: Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876. Please refer to file number 14-25-03502 I3279458 Forreston Journal Jan. 9, 16, 23, 2026

VILL AGE GR EEN - BYRON Blanchard Ct., Byron, IL 61010

815-234-2620

VillageGreenByron@ppmil.com

"We are accepting applications"

1-Bedroom Apartments

Includes: Washer / Dryer , A/C, Garbage & Sew er and Community Room

24 hr. Emergency Maintenance 62 years of age or older, or disabled regardless of age Rental assistance available Extremely lo w income persons are enco uraged to apply

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OG LE COUNTY, ILL INOIS LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, PLAINTIFF, VS. ANTONIO JEFTHE LOPEZ PICHARDO; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD C LAIMANTS, DEFENDANTS. NO. 2025FC25 6846 SOUTH JAMES DRIVE ROCHELL E, IL 61068 NOTICE OF SALE PURSUANT TO JUDGMENT OF FORECL OSURE UNDER ILLINOIS MORTGAGE F OR ECLOSU RE ACT

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered by the Court in the above entitled cause on December 8, 2025, Judicial Sales Corporation will on March 6, 2026, in the Ogle County She riff's Office, Main Lobby, 202 South First Street, Oregon, IL 61061, at 10:00 AM, sell at public auction and sale to the highest bidder for cash, all and singular, the following described real estate mentioned in said Judgment, situated in the County of Ogle, State of Illinois, or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment: TAX NO. 24-20476-016 C OMMONLY KNOWN AS: 6846 South James Drive Roche lle, IL 61068 Description of Improvements: Brown brick, single family home, attached 2 car garage

The Judgment amount wa s $198,364.97.

Sale Terms : This is an "AS IS" sale for "CASH". The successful bidder must deposit 10% down by certified funds; balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. NO REFUNDS.

The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments or special taxes levi ed against said real estate, water bills, etc., and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to plaintiff. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the bid amount, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, wh ich will entitle the pur chaser to a Deed to the real esta te after confirmation of the sale.

VILLA GE GREEN - GENOA Railroad Ave, Genoa, IL 60135 815-234-2620

VillageGreenGenoa@ppmil.com

"We are accepting applications"

1-Bedroom Apartments

Includes: Washer / Dryer , A/C, Garbage & Sew er and Community Room

24 hr. Emergency Maintenance

62 years of age or older, or disabled regardless of age Rental assistance available

VILLAGE GREEN - MT MORRIS Barbara St., Mt. Morris, IL 61054 815-234-2620

VillageGreenMtMorris@ppmil.com

"We are accepting applications" 1-Bedroom Apartments

Includes: Washer / Dryer , A/C, Garbage & Sew er and Community Room

24 hr. Emergency Maintenance

62 years of age or older, or disabled regardless of age. Rental assistance available Extremely lo w income persons are enco uraged to apply

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF Ogle - Oregon, ILLINOIS U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff vs. JOSEP H P. COX, JR.; ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendant

25 FC 12 CALENDAR NOTICE OF SHE RIFF'S SALE

The property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospecti ve bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information

The successful purcha ser has the sole responsibility/ expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of th e subject premises.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclos ure sale, other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

For Information: Visit our website at http://ilforeclosuresa les.mrpllc.com

Between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m only - McCa lla Raymer Leibe rt Pierce, LLP, Plaintiff's Attorneys, 333 W Wacker Drive, Suite 1820, Chicago, IL 60606-1220. Tel No (312) 346-9088. Please refer to file# 25-21296IL

PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT COLLECTIO N PRACTICES ACT, THE PLAIN TIFF'S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTIN G TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.

Pla intiff's attorney is not required to provi de additional information other than that set forth in this notice of sale I3279354 Forreston Journal Jan. 23, 30, Feb. 6, 2026

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that purs uant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the abov e entitled cause the Sheriff of Ogle County will on February 20, 2026, at the hour 10:00 a.m. in the Sheriff's office, 202 S 1st Street, Oregon, IL 61061, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following desc ribed mortgaged real estate: LOTS SEVEN (7) AND EIGH T (8), EXCEPT THE EAST TEN (10 ) FEET OF SAID LOT EIGHT (8) IN BLOCK TWENTY-THREE (23), IN THE ORIGINAL VILLAGE, NOW CITY, OF BYRON; SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BYRON, COUNTY OF OGLE AND STATE ILLINOI S. P.I.N. 05-32-161-003. Commonly known as 105 E. DIAMOND ST., BYRON, IL 61010.

The real estat e is : single family residence If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common inter est community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Secti on 18.5 of the Condominium Prope rty Act. Sale terms: At sale, the bidder must have 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property is sold AS IS subject to all liens or encumbrances The property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospecti ve bidders are admonished to check the circuit court case record, property tax record and the title record to verify all information before bidd ing.

For informati on call Sales Department at Plaintiff's Attorney, Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 13010 Morris Road, Suite 450, Alpharetta, Georgia 30004. (708) 668-4410 ext. 52109. 24 -235418 SHERIFF

I3279738 Forreston Journal Jan. 16, 23, 30, 2026

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

OG LE COUNT Y, ILLINOIS

LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, PLAINTIFF, VS. ANTONIO JEFTHE LOPEZ PICHARDO; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, DEFENDANTS

NO. 2025FC25 6846 SOUTH JAME S DRIVE ROCHE LLE , IL 61068

NOTICE OF SALE PURSUANT TO JUDGMENT OF FORECL OSURE UNDER ILL INOIS MORTGAGE F ORECLOSURE ACT

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered by the Court in the above entitled cause on December 8, 2025, Judicia l Sales Corporation will on March 6, 2026, in the Ogle County Sheriff's Office, Main Lobby, 202 South First Street, Oregon, IL 61061, at 10:00 AM, sell at pub lic auction and sale to the highest bidder for cash, all and singular, the following described real estate mentioned in said Judgment, situated in the County of Ogle, State of Illinois, or so much thereof as shall be sufficient to satisfy said Judgment: Part of Lot Fifty-nine (59) of Woodlawn Acres Subdi vision No. 3 as recorded in the Ogle County Recorder's Office in Book K of Plats, page 85, bounded and describ ed as follows: Beginning at the Southwest corner of said Lot 59; thence Northwesterly along the Wes terly line of said Lot 59, 200 feet to the Northwest corner of said Lot 59; thence Northeasterly along the Nor thwesterly line of said Lot 59, a distance of 20.2 feet thence Southeasterly parallel with said Westerly line of said Lot 59, a distance of 200 feet to a point on the Southeasterly line of said Lot 59; thence Southwesterly along said Southea sterly line of Lot 59, a distance of 20.2 feet to the point of beginning; s ituated in Ogle County, State of Illinois, AND Part of Lot Sixty (60) of Woodlawn Acres Subdivision No. 3, as recorded in the Ogle County Recorders Office in Book K of Plats, page 85, bounded and described as follows: Beginning at the Southeast corner of said Lot 60; thence Northwesterly along the Easterly line of said Lot 60, 200 feet to the Northeast corner of said Lot 60; thence Southwesterly along the Northwe sterly line of said Lot 60, a distance of 64.8 feet thence Southea sterly parallel with said East line of Lot 60, a dis tance of 200 feet to a poi nt on the Southeasterly line of said Lot 60; thence Northeasterly along said Southea sterly line of Lot 60, a distance of 64.8 feet to the point of beginning; situated in the County of Ogle and State of Illinois.

TAX NO. 24-20-476-016 COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 6846 South James Drive Roche lle, IL 61068 Description of Improv ements: Brown br ick, single family home, attached 2 car garage The Judgment amoun t wa s $198,364.97.

Sale Terms: This is an "AS IS" sale for "CASH" . The successful bidder must deposit 10% down by certified funds; balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours.

NO REFUNDS

The subject prope rty is subject to general real esta te taxes, special assessments or special taxes levied against said real estate, water bills, etc., and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to pla intiff. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in ful l of the bid amount, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the r eal estate after confirmation of the sale

The property will NOT be open for ins pection. Prospecti ve bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information

The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/ expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises.

If this prope rty is a condomi nium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, othe r than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fee s required by The Condominium Prope rty Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTIO N 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

For Information: V is it our website at http://ilforeclosuresales.mrpllc.com Between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m only - McCa lla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP, Plaintiff's Attorneys, 333 W Wacker Drive, Suite 1820, Chicago, IL 60606-1220. Tel. No. (312) 346-9088. Please refer to file# 25-21296IL PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTI CES ACT, THE PLAINTIFF'S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Plaintiff's attorney is not required to provide additional information other than that set forth in this notice of sale. I3 279354 Forreston Jou rnal Jan. 23, 30, Feb. 6, 2026

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT F OR THE 15TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OG LE COUNTY - OREGO N, ILL INOIS Citizens Bank, N.A. PLAINTIFF Vs. Diana L. Dennis; et. al. DEFENDANTS No. 2025FC26 NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 11/14/2025, the Sheri ff of Ogle County, Illinois will on February 20, 2026 at the hour of 10:00 AM at Ogle County Public Safety Complex 202 S 1st St. Oregon, IL 61061, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of Ogle and State of Illinois , sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real esta te: THE NORTH HALF (1/2) OF LOT FORTY-EIGHT (48) IN THE PLAT OF EDGE-A-TOWN SUBDIVISION NO. 5A, LOCATED IN THE NORTH HALF (1/2) OF SECTION 31, IN TOWNSHIP 25 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE FOURTH PRINCIPAL ME RIDIAN, IN THE CITY OF BYRON, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN FILE A OF PLATS PAGE 9 AS DOCUMENT NO. 438657, IN OGLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS SITUATE D IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BYRON, THE COUNTY OF OGLE AND THE STATE OF ILLINOIS PIN 05-31-328-007 Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 139 S Maple Ave Byron, IL 61010

Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the aucti on; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calc ulated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fract ion thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due wit hin twenty -four (24) hours. The subjec t property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any r epresentati on as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

If the property is a condominium and the foreclos ure takes place after 1/1/2007, purchaser s other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4)

If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act , 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

If the sale is set aside for any reason , the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit pai d. The Purchaser shall hav e no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee 's attorney. Upon payme nt in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, wh ich will entitle the pur chaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmat ion of the sale. The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in pos session of the subject premises. The property will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all information

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

For informati on: Examine the court file or contac t Plai ntiff's attorney: Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876. Please refer to file number 14-25-03502

I3279458 Forreston Journal Jan. 9, 16, 23, 2026

LEG AL NOTICES

STATE OF IL LINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

COUNTY OF OGLE

I n re the E state of: MAX E. SNOOK, JR., Deceased 2026 PR 4 CL AIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of MAX E. SNOOK, JR. Letters of Office were issued onJanuary 16, 2026, to KENNEDI PORTS, as Independent Executor

Claims against the estate may be filed within six (6) months from the date of first publication, or wit hin three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to creditors, if mailing ordelivery is required by Section 5/18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 197 5, as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed by the requisite date stated above shall be barred. Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Circuit Clerk, Ogle County Judicial Center, 106 South 5th Street, Or egon, IL 61061 or with the esta te legal representative, or both. Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney wit hin 10 days after it has been filed.

By: KENNEDI PORTS

Independent Executor Law Office s of M. THOMAS SUITS, P.C. 114 W. Mason St. Polo, IL 61064 (815) 946-2276

tom@suitslegal com

Jan. 23, 30, Feb. 6, 2026

Top competitors showcased at Pole Vault Summit in Reno

Being retired and living alone, there is much latitude in traveling. This previous weekend was an example of that with a trip to Reno, Nevada, for the Pole Vault Summit, an event that brings more than 1,000 of some of the best high school, college and professional competitors.

Held in an indoor convention arena with 14 runways and pits, it is quite the spectacle, with nonstop action for two days. The Summit is something I always have wanted to attend, and this year seemed like the perfect time with Andrew Nuyen of Rochelle on display among the elite high schoolers.

The real thrill, though, is the Olympian men and women vaulters who draw thousands of fans from all over the country to Reno.

As someone who built his own pole vault pit in the family backyard many decades ago, it was a near pilgrimage for me to be there.

I imagine everyone geeks out on at least one thing, and for me it’s always been pole vaulting. The only person in town who out-geeks me is Dave Gilbert, who at older than 60 remains one of the top master vaulters in the world.

As critical as I have been of club sports and the negative impact it has on high schools, the high level of competition among the pole vaulters wouldn’t be what it is without the clubs scattered throughout the country.

Illinois has two of them that regularly dominate IHSA state placing in the Flying Dragons of Bloomington and RISE of Joliet, which is where Nuyen developed skills to go from 9 feet as a freshman to 17 feet as a junior.

So is this the case of the pot calling the kettle black in that it is OK if it applies to my favorite sporting event, but not so with, say, basketball or volleyball?

About the only difference is track and field is more of an individual sport, whereas basketball and volleyball are team sports.

One thing that is the same in club sports is the sense of community that athletes in a particular sport have with one another. In pole vaulting, it goes beyond hanging with peers of one’s own age group.

At the Pole Vault Summit, the professional athletes finished competing Friday night, but they all came back on Saturday to help work the pits on all the runways for the high schoolers.

You don’t get that in the same manner with pros in baseball or basketball.

As one of the meet officials told me, you can’t afford to be a jerk in track and field, as it doesn’t have the same financial windfall as lucrative contracts in other sports, which has a tendency to spoil athletes and make them jerks.

The Pole Vault Summit is a true grassroots endeavor that a local college coach and an equipment manufacturer based in Carson City, Nevada, started 34 years ago. The initial idea was to have a clinic, but why not incorporate a competition, they thought.

Almost every American Olympian and even some from other countries have made appearances, including world record holder Mondo Duplantis (20-8) of Sweden, who started out by

making 7 feet as a 7-year old there.

OK, OK. I know I’m probably boring you with pole vault talk when we have basketball and wrestling going on.

I was sad to hear of Russ Zick’s passing from cancer. Russ coached at several schools, including Rochelle and AFC. He was very personable to interview before and after games and was very candid.

It was just last winter that I had the pleasure of sitting in the stands at a Byron game with him and his brother John. There was genuine warmth in our conversation, devoid of any standard coachspeak.

Besides his death, another sad moment came after Rochelle’s 76-73 loss to Moline in the finals of an AA sectional in 2002. The Hubs may have had their best team ever and held a 16-point lead in the fourth quarter. Inexplicably, it all fell apart and Rochelle missed out on a rare chance to make state.

I happened to be covering that game and there was a glazed look to Coach Zick in the Streator gym afterward. It was a dream team for Rochelle and he knew a chance like that would not come along again.

If there was any solace, Zick did make it downstate in 1996 with Paxton-Buckley-Loda.

The next year, Zick coached Paxton to a state’s best 26-0 record, but couldn’t get out of a sectional. On a side note, that was the season that Warsaw beat Hall Township 92-85 in overtime for the state title, with Shawn Jeppson scoring 51 points for Hall.

On another side note, I never did get to see Andrew Nuyen pole vault at Reno. He has mononucleosis and is laid up for awhile. But he was there cheering on his RISE teammates.

• Andy Colbert is a sports writer for Shaw Local covering high school sports in Ogle County.

By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com

Monday, Jan. 14

Girls basketball

Oregon 52, Durand 23: The Hawks improved to 11-7 as Aniyah Sarver led the way with 19 points. Oregon led 18-9 after one quarter.

Girls bowling

Oregon 1,646, Rockford Lutheran 1,577: Ahren Howey led Oregon’s four bowlers with a 439 series in the win.

Boys bowling

Oregon 3,428, Rockford Lutheran 2,429: Caleb Ehrler led Oregon with a 682 series, RJ Keene rolled a 627 and Andrew Stahl rolled a 607 in the win.

Tuesday, Jan. 15

Boys basketball

Byron 53, Oregon 31: Cooper Johnson led Oregon with nine points, and Keaton Salsbury had eight in the loss.

Pearl City 60, Polo 29: JT Stephenson scored 10 points in the home setback. Pearl City led 20-2 after the first quarter.

Girls basketball

Dakota 50, Forreston 32: Hailee Vogt led the Cardinals with 12 points in the setback. Tenlei Patterson added nine points for Forreston.

Fulton 55, Polo 41: Wrenn Coffey scored 21 points, and Breleigh Hayton scored 20 in the Steamers’ win. Cam Jones scored 23 points for Polo.

Wednesday, Jan. 16

Boys basketball

Polo 64, Milledgeville 51: JT Stephenson scored 20 points, Mercer Mumford scored 15 and Casen Grobe added 15 in the win. Karter Livengood led the Missiles with 24 points and Konner Johnson added 11.

Girls basketball

Dakota 63, Oregon 42: Ashlee Mundell led Oregon with 10 points. The Hawks were without starters Sarah Eckardt and Shaylee Davis due to concussion protocol. Team scoring leader Aniyah Sarver (four points) also exited with an injury early in the second quarter.

Thursday, Jan. 17

Girls basketball

Eastland 73, Polo 43: Sienna Peterson led the Cougars (18-2, 6-0) with 30 points, all in the first three quarters. Cam Jones led Polo with 20 points and eclipsed 1,500 for her career.

Boys bowling

Oregon 3,337, Dakota 3,179: RJ Keene

led Oregon with a 618 series, and Ivan Hernandez added a 608 in the win.

Girls bowling

Oregon 2,016, Dakota 1,981: Carli Bailey led the Hawks with a 516 series.

Friday, Jan. 18

Boys basketball

Fulton 64, Polo 46: At Fulton, DeAngelo Dodd and Landen Leu scored 15 points each to lead the Steamers to the NUIC win. Jacob Voss added 14 for Fulton (7-11, 2-2).

Oregon 66, Rockford Christian 62: At Rockford, the Hawks picked up the win in the Big Northern Conference.

Saturday, Jan. 19

Girls basketball

Oregon 49, Hinckley-Big Rock 26: Noelle Girton scored 11 points and Addi Rufer added 10 in the home win.

Genoa-Kingston 45, Polo 37: Cam Jones

scored 25 points to lead Polo in the setback.

Boys basketball Forreston 84, AFC 31: The Cardinals improved to 8-9 with the win.

Boys bowling

Sterling regional: Oregon took third at Blackhawk Lanes with a 5,771 total and advanced as a team to this week’s Rockford East Sectional at The Cherry Bowl.

Rock Island (6,497) took first, Sycamore (5,906) was second and DeKalb (5,718) was fourth as the top four teams advanced.

Oregon’s Andrew Stahl (1,278) was sixth and Rylann Delehanty (1,208) took 14th. Caleb Ehrler (1,034) and RJ Keene (1,142) also were over 1,000 for the Hawks.

Dixon (5,487) took eighth as a team, Sterling (5,118) was 10th and Erie-Prophetstown (4,641) was 13th.

Advancing individually were Dixon’s Aaron Fitzanko (1,218) and Sam Gingras (1,217). They finished fourth and fifth, respectively.

Sterling’s Bryce Kooy rolled a 1,167 to get the 10th and final individual spot.

Boys wrestling

Morrison’s Caleb Modglin takes second: Caleb Modglin fell in the championship match by technical fall, 22-7, to Cooper Corder of Sandwich. Morrison’s Eli Modglin took third at 126 pounds, Cael Wright took fifth at 120 and Noah Stout was fifth at 190.

Kewanee invite: Fulton was runner-up with 200 points and Sherrard won with 207.5 among 20 teams. West Carroll (175) was fourth and Polo (69) was 12th. Area champions included Fulton’s Hudson Price (113 pounds), West Carroll’s Cole Herrell (150) and Jonner Smith (165) and Polo’s Micah Stringini (190).

LEFT: Oregon’s Jacksyn Windham tries to break a hold by Newman’s Matthew Clemen during their 215-pound bout at the Oregon Quad on Jan. 17 at the Blackhawk Center.

FAR LEFT:

Oregon’s Jack Benesh (top) wrestles Byron’s Hunter King at 132 pounds at the Oregon Quad on Jan. 17 at the Blackhawk Center in Oregon.

Oregon wins against Rockridge, Byron at quad

By RANDY HOLLAND

The Oregon wrestlers hosted their annual quad against Rockridge, Sterling Newman and Byron on Saturday, Jan. 17, at the Blackhawk Center, and they came away with two victories.

In the opening match against Rockridge, Oregon had a 41-6 lead before a couple of forfeits and falls tightened the score, but the Hawks held on for a 47-34 win.

In the match against Newman, Oregon fell behind early, worked back into the lead, but then gave up a major decision and a fall in the upper weights that sealed the win for the Comets. The match ended with Newman getting a technical fall to defeat Oregon 42-30.

In the final dual against Byron, the Hawks rode five forfeits to a 55-21 win.

Against Rockridge, the match started with Kayden Cover getting pinned in a half nelson at 1:09. Oregon then went on a roll with a pin by Tyshawn Gordy at 1:58, a butcher by Josiah Perez at 3:22, a cradle by Isaiah Perez in 40 seconds, a forfeit to Jack Benesh, a scrape by Boone Alderks at 1:47, a half over the front by Nelson Benesh and a 15-0 technical fall by Jackson Messenger, who finished with a double leg takedown in the 150-pound bout to give the Hawks a 41-6 lead.

Oregon then gave up two forfeits, Cole Suter lost a 19-3 technical fall at 3:46 and Charles Collins was taken down in a half nelson at 1:21.

Jacksyn Windham lost a reverse

Alderks took a forfeit at 144 and Nelson Benesh had two two-point nearfalls before he escaped at 4:31 to take a 17-2 technical fall. That was followed by a forfeit to Messenger.

Suter lost two sets of backpoints in the second period to drop a 20-2 technical fall at 3:29 and Oregon had to forfeit 175.

At 190, Collins tried a couple of times for a cradle, finally caught it for four points and held on for a 10-8 win. That was the last win for Oregon.

Windham had chances but lost a 10-2 major decision, the extra point sealing the dual victory for Newman. Carreno went over in a chicken wing at 3:16 and Cover lost a four-point cradle in the second and three takedowns in the third in a 19-3 technical fall at 5:45.

Against Byron, Josiah Perez and Isaiah Perez both won by forfeit, Jack Benesh scored a takedown in a cradle in 46 seconds and Carson Benesh and Alderks both received forfeits to give the Hawks a 30-0 lead.

Up at 150, Nelson Benesh had four takedowns in a 14-4 major decision and Messenger, up at 157, came from behind with a takedown as time expired to take an 8-7 win.

before he rolled to a pin at 2:26. The meet ended at 285 with Yovanni Carreno losing three takedowns and two sets of backpoints in a 17-1 technical fall loss at 3:31.

Starting at 113 pounds against Newman, Gordy went over in a half nelson in 47 seconds. Josiah Perez had a cradle for four points early in an 11-3 major deci-

sion win, but Isaiah Perez lost a major decision, losing a takedown and fourpoint half nelson at the end of the match.

Jack Benesh lost a counter takedown to his back and was pinned at 3:36 giving the Comets a 21-4 lead.

Carson Benesh reversed the trend, taking a chicken wing out front at 1:31.

Suter lost a 16-0 technical fall at 4:46 in the 165-pound match. Oregon had to forfeit 175 and 190 but were strong at the upper weights with a cradle and then a butcher by Windham at 3:40 and a roll to the back by Carreno at 3:30. Cover lost a late takedown in a 16-7 loss and the match finished with a forfeit to Gordy.

SPORTS

Oregon’s Cole

tries to break a

TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY

1943: Detroit Red Wings score NHL record eight goals in one period.

1944: Detroit Red Wings score 15 goals against the New York Rangers and set NHL record for 37 points in a game. The 15-0 win is a record for the most lopsided game.

Friday, January 23, 2026

TRYING TO BREAK FREE

Oregon goes 2-1 at annual quad with wins over Rockridge, Byron / 15