Polo_Tri-County_Press-02-20-2026

Ogle

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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.

The TRI-COUNTY PRESS (USPS No. 638-530) is published weekly by B.F. Shaw Printing Co., Shaw Media. Periodical postage paid at Polo, Illinois. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Shaw Media, P.O. Box 498, Sterling, IL 61081 All rights reserved. Copyright 2026

Thanks to community donations, the 4-H Cares Project donated 25 tied blankets, 33 crocheted baby hats, 17 baby quilts and 51 handmade sewn stuffed animals to OSF Saint Katharine Medical Center for the Pediatrics Department, Emergency Department, OB and ambulance services.

4-H Cares Project delivers hundreds of donations across Ogle County

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

“Hands to larger service” is one of the four Hs that 4-H members strive to live by. Members give back to their communities in many ways, and sometimes those ideas grow into one big project. Last fall, three different ideas were presented to the 4-H staff that led to one great collaborative effort. 4-H member Lydia Sherburne wanted to collect stuffed animals, coloring books, blankets and more for pediatric patients at Serenity Hospice & Home.

At the same time, the Harbaugh family and their 4-H club, the Hub Hickory Nuts, wanted to partner with OSF Saint Katharine Medical Center in Dixon to create homemade sewn, crocheted or tied blankets for various departments.

Additionally, food accessibility was a major concern as the holiday season approached.

These three efforts came together as the 4-H Cares Project, giving members across the county an opportunity to participate. All 12 4-H clubs sewed, tied and collected donations.

Nearly $500 was donated to local food pantries for Thanksgiving and Christmas, along with turkeys, hams, holiday meal fixings, and other food items for seven food pantries in Ogle County. In total, more than 500 items were donated, including 30 hams and turkeys.

4-H members also donated 25 stuffed animals and 10 bags of goodies (puzzles, word books, fidget toys and more) as well as 20 tied blankets to Serenity Hospice & Home.

In addition, 25 tied blankets, 33 crocheted baby hats, 17 baby quilts, and 51

CORRECTIONS

Accuracy is important to the Polo Tri-County Press. Please call errors to our attention by email at news@oglecountynews.com.

handmade, sewn stuffed animals were donated to OSF Saint Katharine Medical Center for the Pediatrics Department, Emergency Department, OB and ambulance services. Nearly 50 sets of coloring books, crayons and markers were also donated to the Shining Star Children’s Advocacy Center in Dixon.

“Through the 4-H Cares Project, members demonstrated the true meaning of service, compassion and leadership while making a lasting impact across Ogle County,” according to an Extension news release. “The Ogle County 4-H program is proud of the dedication shown by its members, volunteers and families, and grateful for the strong community partnerships that helped make this effort possible. Together, these acts of kindness continue to show how small ideas can grow into meaningful change for neighbors in need.”

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Gaulrapp of Oregon Elementary named Northwest Regional Teacher of the Year

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The Illinois State Board of Education on Wednesday announced 14 Teacher of the Year Cohort members and recog nized nearly 450 educators, administra tors and other school staff through its annual Those Who Excel and Teacher of the Year awards.

The awards spotlight individuals whose dedication, innovation, and lead ership are making a meaningful differ ence for students and school communi ties across Illinois.

Among them was Oregon Elementary School’s Courtney Gaulrapp, who was named Northwest Regional Teacher of the Year.

Gaulrapp is an educator with 12 years of experience in public education, demonstrating consistent excellence across multiple grade levels and school settings, according to a news release. She teaches fifth grade reading at OES, where she is known for cultivating an inclusive, engaging learning environ ment grounded in innovative instruc tional practices and purposeful technol ogy integration.

“Miss Gaulrapp’s commitment to aca demic rigor is reflected in her students’ exceptional growth,” according to the release. “In the most recent school year, 72% of her fifth‑grade students achieved proficiency or excellence on the ELA IAR assessment, nearly tripling the

Shared Leadership Team, and Behav ioral Support Advisory Team reflects her commitment to advancing school wide improvement and instructional coherence.

She further contributes to profes sional culture by mentoring educators, delivering presentations during staff meetings, and opening her classroom for peer observations, offering colleagues meaningful opportunities to learn from her practice.

Gaulrapp holds a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Illinois State University and a master’s degree in leadership from Western Illi nois University – academic training that continues to inform her reflective, stu dent‑centered approach to teaching.

has the opportunity to thrive. I am grate ful for their service to schools, families and communities across Illinois – con gratulations to this year’s honorees.”

The Those Who Excel and Teacher of the Year Awards recognize individuals making a significant impact in Illinois schools. ISBE presents awards in six cat egories: classroom teachers; early career educators (teachers with one to four years of experience); school administra tors; student support personnel; educa tional service personnel; and commu nity volunteers. Team awards were retired beginning with the 2026 cycle.

number of students meeting and exceed ing standards from the previous year. This achievement underscores her abil ity to design instruction that challenges learners while supporting their individ ual needs.”

Beyond her classroom, Gaulrapp plays an active leadership role within her school community. She collaborates with colleagues to strengthen strategies in student engagement, questioning techniques, and classroom management. Her service on the Curriculum Team,

“I’m incredibly proud to congratulate the 2026 Those Who Excel awardees and Teacher of the Year Cohort, an outstand ing group of leaders in education from up and down the state,” Gov. JB Pritzker said. “These honorees have dedicated themselves to inspiring our students, setting the next generation up for suc cess, and working tirelessly to make their schools – and our state – a premier place for education.”

“Illinois’ educators are the heart of our schools and the foundation of our future,” Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton said.

“The 2026 Those Who Excel awardees and Teacher of the Year Cohort exem plify the passion, leadership, and com mitment it takes to ensure every student

The Teacher of the Year Cohort includes Regional Teachers of the Year along with statewide honorees in Bilin gual Education, Special Education, and Early Childhood, plus one Outstanding Early Career Educator. Educators with at least five years of classroom experi ence are eligible to be named Illinois Teacher of the Year – the state’s highest honor for teaching.

ISBE received a record number of nominations and applications for the 2026 Those Who Excel and Teacher of the Year awards. A diverse committee of educators, administrators, educational service personnel, student support pro fessionals, and past Illinois Teachers of the Year reviewed applications and selected this year’s honorees.

All awardees will be honored at the annual Those Who Excel and Teacher of the Year Awards Banquet on April 18.

Oregon Depot program Feb. 28 to cover Korean War

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The “Those Were the Days” pre senter at the Oregon Depot at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, will be Highland Community College’s Lifelong Learn ing instructor, Mark Peterson.

Peterson will speak about the Korean War, exploring Korea’s cultural background, the Japanese occupation

and post World War II division. He’ll talk about the events leading to North Korea’s attack and review the key bat tles such as Pusan Perimeter, Inchon, Chosin Reservoir and Soyang River, while comparing present day North and South Korea.

Peterson has been teaching history for Lifelong Learning at Highland Com munity College since 2017. A U.S. Navy veteran, he served six years aboard

ships based in South Carolina and Greece. Peterson earned his master’s degree in history from Southern Illinois University Carbondale before begin ning a decades long teaching career in HVAC controls, history and adult edu cation.

His work has taken him to 41 states, four Canadian provinces and countries including Australia, China, Denmark, Germany and France. From 2004 to

2018, he taught Historical Methods for Adult Learning at Concordia Univer sity in Beloit, Wisconsin. After retiring in 2009, Peterson continued teaching in northern Illinois schools and spent sev eral summers as a campground host at Mt. Rainier National Park.

Having traveled to all 50 states and 19 countries, Peterson brings global insight and enthusiasm for history to every class he teaches.

11 departments respond to ag facility fire

Seven people transported with minor smoke inhalation and released

By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com

Eleven area fire departments responded to an agricultural facility fire north of Rochelle on Tuesday morning, Lynn-Scott-Rock Fire Protection Dis trict Capt. John Rimstidt said.

LSR Fire was called at 9:48 a.m. for a report of a building/sulfur fire at 936 S. Moore Road. That address is the site of the agricultural business Maplehurst Farms. Rimstidt said fire personnel arrived at 9:58 a.m. at a 100-by-200-foot canvas hoop building with smoke showing and all people out of the building.

“When we arrived on scene, there was a considerable amount of white smoke coming out of the building,” Rimstidt said. ”We deployed lines and cut a part of the side of the canvas structure where the fire was. Employees directed us to the fire. With mutual aid, we got water onto where it was smoldering and got it out. A lot of the burning material was pulled with a wheel loader and sprayed down.”

Rimstidt said seven people who were working onsite were transported to area hospitals out of precaution for smoke inhalation and all had been released as of Tuesday afternoon.

The building is used for fertilizer storage, and sulfur was the material that burned inside. There was minimal damage to the building from the fire.

Firefighters took precautions with self-contained breathing apparatus and personal protective equipment for the chemical fire, Rimstidt said.

“We were told it was sulfur on fire in the building,” Rimstidt said. “We knew you can’t hit it with a hard stream of water, or else it would react. We had to hit it with foam or a light mist of water. We had to be careful. No one was in

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS

Oregon Park District to host program on Nash Recreation

The Oregon Park District invites community members to attend its next 60th anniversary Coffee Conversation at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, at the Nash Recreation Center.

This informal gathering will focus on the past, present and future of Nash Recreation Center, offering attendees an opportunity to hear stories, share memories and discuss what lies ahead for the community facility. The conversation is open to all residents and community members.

Coffee Conversations are designed to encourage open dialogue and community engagement in a relaxed setting. Participants are welcome to come with questions, memories or simply to listen and learn more about the role Nash Recreation Center has played – and continues to play – in the community.

The event is free to attend, and no registration is required.

Oregon band, choir students participate in Route 72 contest

Oregon sixth, seventh and eighth grade band and choir students participated in the 2026 Route 72 Solo and Ensemble Contest on Feb. 7 at Pecatonica High School.

Seventy students from Oregon performed 47 solos, duets, trios and quartets throughout the day.

Oregon received 38 first-place ratings, eight second-place ratings, and one third-place rating. With the 38 first-place ratings, one student, Kate Novis, received a perfect score on both her clarinet solo and vocal performances.

Many of the first-place performances will be featured at the 31st annual Band Extravaganza Concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 19, at the Black Hawk Center.

there in the smoke without gear and air.”

Responding fire companies at the second-alarm fire included LSR, Monroe Township, Stillman, Ogle-Lee, Rochelle, Blackhawk, Oregon and Byron. Ambulances from Sycamore, Kirkland and Genoa-Kingston were utilized. Ogle County Emergency Management was on site providing hazardous material guidance and the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office provided traffic control.

“It’s unbelievable the support that [the mutual-aid box alarm system] provides,” Rimstidt said. “We had more than enough people and equipment. That can be an issue at that time of day. I can’t stress enough the importance of mutual aid and manpower. We could rotate people in and out. Especially when it’s a hazardous situation like this. We had plenty of water. We probably only used about 1,000 gallons. That’s really a good thing, because it cuts down on runoff.”

Rimstidt said the cause of the fire is under investigation, but is considered to be accidental. The dollar amount of damage is undetermined. The only loss was the material that burned and minimal damage to the structure, he said. The last emergency unit cleared the scene at 11:40 a.m.

Oregon High School band and choir students will perform their solo/ensemble events March 7 at West Carroll High School all day.

Freezer meals support Ag in the Classroom program

Have you been searching for a way to make dinner preparation simple?

Ogle-Carroll Agriculture in the Classroom has a great opportunity to take a night off from cooking.

Order two sets of five meals for a total of 10 meals. These are individual servings. Meals include cheesy hamburger casserole, pulled pork mac and cheese, cheesy chicken enchiladas, chicken bacon ranch pasta and chicken fajitas with peppers and onions.

Cost for the 10 meals is $90 cash or check or $95 by credit card. Proceeds benefit the Ogle-Carroll Ag in the Classroom Program. There are two ways to

order:

Mail your name, phone number, number of meal sets (they come in a set of 10 meals), and payment to 811 S. Clay St., Mt. Carroll, IL 61053. Make checks payable to Ogle-Carroll Ag Partnership Order online at go.illinois.edu/freezermeals

Place your order by 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 3. Meal pickup is March 30 from 4-5 p.m. at the University of Illinois Extension office, 421 W. Pines Road, Oregon. Contact the office at 815-732-2191 or email charbm@illinois.edu with any questions.

Agriculture in the Classroom is a statewide educational program with lessons offered to kindergarten through eighth grade. Its goal is to help students, teachers, and the public gain greater awareness of the role of agriculture in the economy and society.

– Shaw Local News Network

Teacher of the Year and signs of spring

POLO HISTORY

I have a sign in my front yard, and I am not running for office. The sign says: “Congratulations, Natalie O’Connor. 2026 Illinois Teacher of the Year. West Carroll Elementary School.”

The school had nominated her for this honor many weeks ago, and recently the principal and office staff came into her room with flowers, a certificate and signs. Natalie was a winner, and I was lucky enough to get one of her signs. Our family is thrilled.

Our family has many in the medical field, and in high school, Natalie was going to head in that direction. She was shadowing at Freeport Hospital, and then she felt she was not in the right spot. She wanted to work with children, but with an emphasis on science.

So the day came when she headed for fifth grade armed with the O’Connor family microscopes and her

Great-Grandfather Isley’s science genes. Obviously, that is working well, and she is in the right spot.

My Christmas things are now all tucked away, and one has the feeling spring is around the corner. It is suddenly great to be outside again, even though there is a pile or two of snow.

The Winter Olympics keep us feeling like it is still winter, and I have enjoyed watching some of it. I keep an eye on the advertisements, especially the ones where they are eating chocolates. I even picked up a bag of the ones that are so special and found them to be a tad sweet. But it was Valentine’s Day, and I decided to splurge. The bag was soon empty. Then Linda and Charlie came with Kit Kats in a lovely bag, and I love those. So my Valentine’s Day was complete.

Kevin, on the Polo Historical Society’s Facebook page, posted some of the beautiful antique valentines we have on display at the museum. I remember when my brother Ed helped me put all that display together. We are lucky to have some lovely seasonal tissue paper

cards that are very old and very fragile. We want to move that up to Aplington House, but we have to figure out where to put it when we do.

My goodness, Alexa just told me that tomorrow it is to be 65 degrees. I will soon feel like digging in the dirt. At least my snowman is back in the garage and up on the freezer until next winter. He did not look right outside anymore, but I am certain we will have more cold weather about the time we get used to these warm sunny days.

Stop by the museum on Saturdays when Kevin has it open. We never know who will stop by and visit or have something to drop off for us. There is always something interesting on the table for us to wonder where on earth it came from. This week, it is a picture of a Worden who married an O’Kane. Linda was excited to see that, and she is ready to send a copy to someone in the Worden family who will be visiting us this summer.

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

Ogle County Historical Society’s monthly meeting is Feb. 23

The Ogle County Historical Society’s monthly meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23, in the carriage house annex behind the Nash House Museum. The museum is located at 111 N. Sixth St., Oregon.

One item to be discussed is the plans for letters to be written by the people of Ogle County to be placed in time capsules. Letter topics might include anything from talking about daily life in the county, to writing to one’s descendants, to sharing hopes and dreams for the future.

The historical society is working with the Ogle County Board on this effort as part of the celebration of America’s 250th birthday.

The time capsules will be opened in 50 years – on July 4, 2076.

Details on how to submit the letters, what paper to use and when they are required are still to be decided upon. – Shaw Local News Network

More time granted in Mt. Morris murder case

By EARLEEN HINTON

Shaw Local News Network correspondent

The attorney for a Mt. Morris man accused of fatally shooting his stepson after an argument in April 2025 told an Ogle County judge Wednesday that he needs more time to review evidence with his client.

“I’ve received the additional discovery evidence and have scheduled a meeting with Mr. Swanlund to discuss that,” Ogle County Assistant Public Defender Eric Morrow told Judge Anthony Peska.

Derek Swanlund, 45, is charged with the first-degree murder of Cameron Pasley, 25, also of Mt. Morris, in what police described as a domestic incident.

Ogle County Jail since his arrest.

In December, Morrow said he had requested from prosecutors videos and downloads of a phone. On Wednesday, he said he had received those items and needed 30 days to meet with Swanlund to review the content from those items.

Assistant State’s Attorney Melissa Voss did not object to the continuance.

Peska set Swanlund’s next court hearing for 1 p.m. March 18 and remanded him to the Ogle County Jail.

During an April 2025 preliminary hearing, prosecutors said Mt. Morris police officers responded to an apartment complex on Ogle Avenue in Mt. Morris after receiving a 911 call at 4:59 p.m. April 21 from Pasley’s mother in which she said her husband had shot her son.

He is charged with three counts of first-degree murder and a misdemeanor charge of using a Smith & Wesson 9 mm handgun without having a Firearm Owner’s Identification card.

Swanlund has pleaded not guilty to all the charges and has been held in the

When a Mt. Morris police officer arrived at the scene, she saw Swanlund walking away from the apartment complex while carrying a black and silver handgun in his right hand, according to police.

When more officers arrived at the scene, they discovered Pasley inside the apartment, bleeding from multiple gunshot wounds, Voss said.

Pasley was pronounced dead at OSF Saint Katharine Medical Center in Dixon after being taken from the scene by Mt. Morris EMS.

Pasley’s mother told police she had entered a different room after arguing with Swanlund and after he “belly bumped” her into her son. She then heard Pasley say, “He shot me,” Voss told the court.

Ogle County Detective Chad Gallick testified that autopsy results showed Pasley suffered four gunshot wounds to his torso, one to his abdomen and one to his hand before his death.

Gallick said Pasley had come to his mother’s apartment that day to visit his dog.

Pasley was a 2018 graduate of Oregon High School and a full-time custodian for the Oregon School District at the time of his death.

Voss said a verbal argument inside the apartment evolved to “shoulder bumping” with Pasley, after which Swanlund shot him.

Man charged with killing daughter-in-law dies in custody

Stillman Valley man was admitted to hospital in December: sheriff’s office

By BARBARA VITELLO bvitello@dailyherald.com

A 76-year-old Ogle County man who authorities say fatally shot his daughter-in-law in July 2025 outside a Schaumburg hotel died last week at Mount Sinai Hospital in Chicago. Roland Schmidt of Stillman Valley

Roland Schmidt

was admitted to the hospital in December and remained there until his death Feb. 3, according to a Cook County sheriff’s office spokesman. The preliminary cause of death was complications due to cancer.

Schmidt was charged last year with first-degree murder in the death of Christine Moyer, 45, of Galena, Ohio. Prosecutors said Schmidt shot Moyer

OGLE COUNTY PROPERTY TRANSFERS: FEB. 9-13

Warranty Deeds

• Stacey Koch to Jacob Hughes and Cassandra Ann Hughes, one parcel in Monroe Township: 12-19-401-024, $350,000

• Friends of Nachusa Grasslands to Nature Conservancy, one parcel in Taylor Township: 22-16-400-003, $191,000

• Samuel L Gardner and Lauren E Gardner to Jonah Mundy, one parcel in Monroe Township: 12-19-401-019, $285,000

• Thomas J Harnett III to Antonino Alfano, trustee, Marianna Alfano, trustee, and Aaaa Trust, 800 S. Fourth St., Oregon, $60,000

• Haascienda LLC Series A to Christina M Ybarra, 907 Carlisle Drive, Rochelle, $168,000

• Patsy L Smith, James A Holt, and Shirley R Terry to Jesse Schabacker and Andrew Schabacker, 557 S. Third St., Rochelle, $170,000

• Daniel E Luepkes to David A Luepkes, one parcel in Oregon-Nashua Township: 16-14-200-005, $425,000

• William W Love to Townie Ventures LLC Series Casa Blanca, 307 W. Fourth St., Byron, $115,000

• Emilia D Lopez to Michael Hurst, one parcel in Dement Township: 25-23-277005, $30,000

• Vincent Aiello and Lina Aiello to Nicole Speizio De Paz, Nicole Speizio-De Paz, and Lydia Speizio, one parcel in Taylor Township: 22-08-430-010, $2,500

• Elizabeth M Robertson to Grant S Hilliard, 1025 Crest View Trail, Byron, $245,000

• Tracy Export Inc. to Brandon Pemberton and Kristen Pemberton, one parcel in Pine Creek Township: 15-36-400-010, $200,000

• Matthew T Contreras to Jarrad McCoy, one parcel: 503 S. Third St., Oregon, $92,500

• Scott L Hilliard to Brennan Andrew Hailey, one parcel in Marion Township: 05-33-200-021, $187,000

• David K Boe and Ann L Boe to Alejandro Villafuerte and Sylvanna Parra, one parcel in Marion Township: 10-04-152-014, $334,000

• Bradley W. Pattat and Janice E Pattat to Kenneth A Skoli, 45 S. Blackhawk Road, Oregon, $292,000

• Veronica R Gaston to Ehlinger Holdings LLC, one parcel in Pine Creek Township: 15-11-300-002, $620,000

• Akens Auto Body Inc. to Douglas L Aken and Glenda S Aken, 402 E. IL Route 64, Mt. Morris, $0.00

• AJ Homes LLC to Antonino Alfano, trustee, Marianna Alfano, trustee, and Aaaa Trust, 804 S. Fourth St., Oregon, $66,000

• David Bester to Lars Larsen, 826 N. Third St., Rochelle, $170,000

Quit Claims

• Mark Lewis and Jessica Lewis to Mark Lewis, 7438 W. Lowell Park Road, Mt. Morris, $0.00

• MTR Properties LLC to Omar Oropesa, one parcel in Taylor Township: 22-08-429006, $0.00

• MTR Properties LLC to Orchid Property Group LLC, one parcel in Taylor Township:

on July 25, as they and other relatives left the hotel after a wedding reception.

Authorities said Schmidt was upset Moyer had served his son with divorce papers earlier that month. They said Schmidt intended to kill her and then end his own life.

There was no indication anything was amiss during the reception, prosecutors said. Family members sat together, and there were no arguments or conversations about the divorce because the victim’s husband had told only his parents.

Prosecutors said Schmidt pulled

22-08-404-015, $0.00

• MTR Properties LLC to Thomas P Steinhauser, one parcel in Taylor Township: 22-09-178-005, $0.00

• Mtr Properties LLC to Orchid Property Group LLC, one parcel in Taylor Township: 22-08-404-014, $0.00

• Debra S Black to David S Black, 302 S. Fourth St., Oregon, $0.00

• Debra S Black to David S Black, 410 W. First St., Mt. Morris, $0.00

• Martha P Gonzalez to Emilia D Lopez, one parcel in Dement Township: 25-23-277005, $0.00

• Abigail Elizabeth Kooy and Paul L Miles to Abigail Elizabeth Kooy, 302 E. Fourth St., Byron, $0.00

• Brian Willis and Janet Willis to Janet Willis, 1082 N. Eighth St., Rochelle, $0.00

Trustee’s Deeds

• Cindy L Vant, trustee, Danny K White, trustee, and White Family Restated Trust to Cindy L Vant, 113 N. 14th St., Oregon, $225,000

• Inspira Financial Trust LLC, custodian, and Zaparackas Zibute G Ira Fbo to

out a gun and shot Moyer in the head as family members exited the hotel about 10:12 p.m.

A witness tried to disarm Schmidt with help from her husband, who managed to wrestle the gun away from Schmidt, authorities said. An unrelated person who was outside the hotel at the time helped the husband take Schmidt to the ground, according to prosecutors.

Another witness, who identified himself as an off-duty police officer, secured the gun until Schaumburg officers arrived.

Zaparackas Zibute G Md, one parcel in Taylor Township: 22-07-300-005, $0.00

• Inspira Financial Trust LLC, custodian, and Zaparackas Zibute G Ira Fbo to Zaparackas Zibute G Md, one parcel in Taylor Township: 22-07-300-003, $0.00

• Inspira Financial Trust LLC, custodian, and Paul A Knepper Ira Fbo to Paul A Kenpper Md Phd, two parcels in Grand Detour Township: 21-04-300-002 and 21-05-400-006, $0.00

• Stanley A Weber, trustee, and Fairbanks Revocable Trust to Tammy M Dykema, one parcel in Buffalo Township: 14-07-400-001, $0.00

Deeds in Trust

• Jason P Knouse to Jason P Knouse, trustee, and C&hk Trust, one parcel in Marion Township: 05-33-352-013, $0.00

• Donald T Renfro Jr. and Cynthia G Renfro to Donald T Renfro Jr., trustee, Cynthia G Renfro, trustee, and C & D Trust, 8550 N. Verde Drive, Byron, $0.00

Source:OgleCountyRecorder’sOffice

IT’S YOUR WRITE

Saying no, declaring yes

To the Editor:

“No taxation without representation,” and the quartering of the British army in people’s homes was enough to cause the American Revolution.

The continued legitimizing of slavery and extending it into newly annexed territory was enough to cause our bloody civil war. The blatant disenfranchisement of people of color was enough to produce the civil rights movement, which was often contentious.

For each declaration of no, there was an almost as forceful yes. Loyalty to the King, the preservation of a way of life and the desire to retain supremacy over others were the opposite positions.

In each circumstance, blood was shed even while each position claimed they were right. I have been struggling to understand

how our country can be a shining light set upon a high hill while we act this way toward one another. It continues today.

Christians shall be in the midst of Lent, beginning Feb. 18. Traditionally, in Lent, Christians abstain from certain things, reflect upon sins and seek to amend their lives. These are the disciplines of Lent. They are meant to guide our reflection and the commitments we make in our lives. Whether you are Christian or not, I commend such practice to you because we have such difficult and life-altering decisions to make. A disciplined approach can help you decide.

We are in a time where saying no or saying yes is becoming more than the product of a philosophical discussion. There are very real consequences to the decisions we make. Being on the sidelines is becoming less of an option.

Investment & Trust Services

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If one is to declare a position, then one must be clear-headed about the reason and the cost of making that declaration. I oppose our immigration policy. I am aware that others will say yes to my no.

Rev. Ronald D. Larson Mt. Morris

Forrestville Valley School District celebrates Bus Driver Appreciation Week

To the Editor:

The Forrestville Valley School District 221 transportation department would like to thank the board of education and district office, Forreston Junior/Senior High School office, athletics department, Forreston Grade School, German Valley Grade School, kitchen staff, Forrestville Valley PTO, along with many students and families who remembered our drivers

during Bus Driver Appreciation Week.

The drivers were acknowledged every day with special treats, from baked goods to gift cards, personalized tumblers and specially made thank you cards from the students.

District bus drivers include Kathy Bickford, Marsha Birkholz, Kirk Janicke, Laura Hillman, Mike Kortemeiver, Erin Liebow, Steve Metzger, John Mershon, Dan Miller, Kelley Parks, Todd Stark, Brent Smith, Chet Strehlow, Joel Tuten and Heather Weaver (transportation director/driver).

Our bus drivers have a great responsibility to make sure all students are delivered safely to and from school, as well as to extracurricular activities. They are a phenomenal group and are appreciated very much.

Forrestville Valley School District 221 transportation department

Forreston FFA members excel at section competition

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Fifteen members from the Forreston FFA Chapter traveled to Stillman Valley High School on the evening of Feb. 4 to compete with their Supervised Agricultural Experience projects.

These students have put countless hours into their record books, striving to be the best in their respective areas of competition.

Forreston had a few students who just started their record book journey, including Dillyn Heslop (Swine Entrepreneurship), Weston Diehl (Forage Production), Brayden Pauls (Ag Mech, Design and Fab.), Addison Yordy (Equine Entrepreneurship), Adalyn Bocker (Equine Placement), Zoe Menke (Veggie Production) and Jacquelyn Hernandez (Vet Science).

Eight out of the 15 competitors excelled in their areas and are moving on to the District level in Geneseo. Those students include Cadan Hoffman in SOE Human and Public Services, Kyla Lamm in Sheep Production, Hunter Miller in Food Services, Levi Bocker in Grain

compete for District star farmer March 4 in Geneseo.

Arguments heard in 2022 fatal crash case

Ogle County judge to decide sentence in March

By EARLEEN HINTON

Shaw Local News Network correspondent

An Ogle County judge will decide next month what sentence a Creston woman should receive for causing a fatal crash that claimed the life of an Addison man in June 2022.

Amy Anthenat, 50, pleaded guilty in October to the Class 4 felony of aggravated driving under the influence, with cocaine detected in her urine. She made an open plea, admitting to the charge without a negotiated plea agreement, leaving Ogle County Judge Clayton Lindsey to determine her sentence following a hearing on Wednesday.

The charge stems from a 3:48 p.m. June 19, 2022, crash at the intersection of Mulford Road and state Route 64, when Anthenat, who was northbound on Mulford Road, pulled out in front of Richard Andrews, 61, Addison, who was driving his motorcycle east on state Route 64.

At Wednesday’s sentencing hearing, under questioning by her attorney Eric Arnquist, Anthenat testified she was driving a “farm truck” from one field to another when she didn’t see Andrews on his motorcycle.

She said she was trying to block the sun with her hand and started to go through the intersection when Andrews saw her vehicle and she saw Andrews.

“He saw me and I saw his scared face. He laid it [the motorcycle] down … falling backwards, so I stopped. I didn’t want to run over him if he was close to

the truck,” she said while crying. She said she ran to Andrews, who was lying in the middle of the road, but she could not find a pulse. She called 911 while two passersby performed CPR on Andrews.

“If I could have saved him, I would have. I didn’t want that to happen to him,” Anthenat said, choking back tears.

“And you fully cooperated with police and gave them blood and urine,” Arnquist asked.

Anthenat said she did cooperate, adding she had used cocaine while attending a wedding the weekend before the crash, but was not under the influence that day.

She said she took full responsibility for the collision and remains in counseling for substance abuse, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder.

“I close my eyes and I see [the crash] every day. I see Mr. Andrews. I see his face. I can’t get over that vision in my head,” Anthenat said.

Earlier in the hearing, Anthenat said she is fully employed as an instructor at Kishwaukee College and also works part time in the radiology department for UW Health.

She tearfully told Lindsey that she had been the victim of physical and mental abuse earlier in her life. She said one of her sons had recently been severely injured in a motor vehicle accident and she is now the main caregiver and provider for him.

During her allocution – her right to

speak before sentencing – Anthenat turned to Andrews’ family and friends who were in the courtroom and apologized.

“I am deeply sorry,” she said tearfully. “I know that this apology can’t make you feel better. I will carry this for the rest of my life. I am not here to make any excuses. I will spend the rest of my life trying show respect for his life.”

Lindsey then heard arguments from Arnquist and Assistant State’s Attorney Heather Kruse as to what they believed Anthenat’s sentence should be.

“She was driving after using cocaine,” said Kruse. “The defendant chose to ingest cocaine and get behind a vehicle. She made choices that day. Mr. Andrews’ death is entirely her fault. She is the cause of this crash.”

Kruse said Anthenat’s “rough life” should not absolve her of her actions on that June 2022 day.

“She is educated. She is employed. She still chose to drive after snorting cocaine at a wedding,” Kruse said, recommending a prison sentence to deter others. “The seriousness of the crime is what is most important. She must be held accountable.”

Arnquist disagreed, asking for a sentence of probation. “This is not a DUI death,” he said, arguing Anthenat was not under the influence when the accident occurred. “It is an aggravated driving, resulting in great bodily harm offense. It is probationable.”

Arnquist said Anthenat had had only minor traffic offenses before the accident.

“She has led her entire life as law-abiding,” Arnquist said. “She has no criminal history. This is about as

clean of a record I’ve ever seen for someone her age. It is snow white.”

Arnquist said Anthenat has not used cocaine since the crash.

“She went through a great deal of trauma and she went out and got counseling on her own,” Arnquist said. “She has a positive report from her counselor. There is absolutely no reason she would not continue to be successful on probation.”

He also said a sentence of probation would allow Anthenat to continue working and provide much-needed insurance for her injured son, as well as allow her to care for him and help with his medical needs. He also said she would willingly abide by any orders levied as part of a probation sentence, including random drug tests.

Arnquist also said the “serious horrific” injuries suffered by her son and Anthenat’s ability to provide for him should also be considered.

“She’s a medical professional, providing medical care,” Arnquist argued. “There is no evidence that she poses any risk to the community.”

He acknowledged that the Andrews’ family had also been “horrifically” injured, but said a prison sentence would not “fix” anything.

Lindsey said he needed time to review arguments, testimony and all elements of the case, as well as read again the four victim impact statements submitted by the Andrews family before rendering his decision.

“I need to take this matter under advisement,” Lindsey said, setting a 3 p.m. March 13 date for the announcement of his decision.

Anthenat remains free on bond pending the March hearing.

Central Bank Illinois announces key officer promotions

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Central Bank Illinois recently announced a series of executive and officer-level promotions.

These advancements recognize the contributions of five professionals who have consistently demonstrated the bank’s core values of community service and financial integrity.

Leading the executive advancements, April Davis and Chrissy Eaker have

been appointed to the bank’s senior management team. These transitions take place in preparation for the retirement of long-term employees Denise Ward and Jackie Despain, ensuring a seamless continuation of leadership.

Davis has been promoted to senior vice president, human resource officer. Recently distinguished as an Illinois Bankers Association Woman of Impact, she will continue to spearhead the bank’s talent strategy and organizational culture from the Geneseo head-

quarters. Eaker, stepping into the role of vice president, operations officer, will oversee the critical systems and processes that support the bank’s deposit operations across 10 locations.

Reflecting the bank’s continued growth and expansion within its respective markets and departments, several other key promotions have been announced. The bank’s lending division sees expanded leadership with the promotion of Kim Ewald to vice president, loan officer. Ewald brings years of

expertise to the bank’s diverse lending portfolio in the Rochelle-area market.

Kristi Kinmon has been promoted to assistant vice president, loan officer, where she will facilitate consumer and real estate loans in the Sterling and Rock Falls market. Additionally, the trust and asset management division is strengthened by the promotion of Carlie Sanchez to trust administration officer, ensuring the continued delivery of toptier fiduciary services to the bank’s clients.

ourt,

61064, a pe dent

STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OGLE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RUTH L. STAUFFER, Deceased IN PROBATE NO. 2026PR11 CLAIM NOTICE

later Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within ten days after it has been filed.

CLASSIFIED

STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

OGLE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RUTH L. STAUFFER, Deceased IN PROBATE NO. 2026PR11 CLAIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of Ruth L. Stauffer. Letters of office were issued on February 3, 2026, to Karen M. Dickinson of 9069 North Main St, Leaf River, IL 61047, and Ronald N. Stauffer of 8529 IL RT 64 W, Polo IL 61064, as Independent Co-Executors, whose attorney is Plager, Krug, Bauer, Rudolph & Stodde n, Ltd., 10 N Galena Avenue, P.O Box 839, Freeport, IL 61032. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the clerk of the court, or with the representative, or both, on or before August 13, 2026, or within 3 months from date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act of 1975, as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within ten days after it has been filed.

s g the death of Ruth L. Stauffer. Letters of office were issued on February 3, 2026, to Karen M. Dickinson of 9069 North Main St, Leaf River, IL 61047, and Ronald N. Stauffer of 8529 IL RT 64 W, Polo IL 61064, as Independent Co-Executors, whose attorney is Plager, Krug, Bauer, Rudolph & Stodde n, Ltd., 10 N Galena Avenue, P.O Box 839, Freeport, IL 61032. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the clerk of the court, or with the representative, or both, on or before August 13, 2026, or within 3 months from date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act of 1975, as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within ten days after it has been filed.

whose attorney is Plager, Krug, Bauer, Rudolph & Stodde n, Ltd., 10 N Galena Avenue, P.O Box 839, Freeport, IL 61032. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the clerk of the court, or with the representative, or both, on or before August 13, 2026, or within 3 months from date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act of 1975, as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within ten days after it has been filed.

E-filing mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit https://illinois courts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp.

Kimberly Stahl Circuit Clerk

Nicole M. Bauer, #6236680

or with the representative, or both, on or before August 13, 2026, or within 3 months from date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act of 1975, as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within ten days after it has been filed.

Notice is given of the death of Ruth L. Stauffer. Letters of office were issued on February 3, 2026, to Karen M. Dickinson of 9069 North Main St, Leaf River, IL 61047, and Ronald N. Stauffer of 8529 IL RT 64 W, Polo IL 61064, as Independent Co-Executors, whose attorney is Plager, Krug, Bauer, Rudolph & Stodde n, Ltd., 10 N Galena Avenue, P.O Box 839, Freeport, IL 61032. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the clerk of the court, or with the representative, or both, on or before August 13, 2026, or within 3 months from date of mailing or delivery of notice to creditors, if required by Section 18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act of 1975, as amended, whichever date is later Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within ten days after it has been filed.

E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit https://illinois courts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp.

E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit https://illinois courts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp.

Kimberly Stahl Circuit Clerk

Nicole M. Bauer, #6236680

E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit https://illinois courts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp

Kimberly Stahl Circuit Clerk

Nicole M. Bauer, #6236680

Plager, Krug, Bauer, Rudolph & Stodden, Ltd. Attorneys for Petitioner

Lincoln-Douglas Center 10 North Galena Avenue Post Office Box 839 Freeport, IL 61032-0839 (815) 235-1212

Plager, Krug, Bauer, Rudolph & Stodden, Ltd.

Attorneys for Petitioner

Lincoln-Douglas Center 10 North Galena Avenue Post Office Box 839 Freeport, IL 61032-0839 (815) 235-1212

E-mail: nbauer@ plager-law.com

February 13, 20, 27, 2026

STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF OGLE

I n re the E state of: ROG ER H. BARNARD, Deceased 2026 PR 6

CLAIM NOTICE

iling ry of Notice to creditors, if mailing ordelivery is required by Section 5/18-3 of the Illinois Probate Act, 1975, 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 JudicialCenter, 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061 or with the estate legal representative, or both. Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.

By: TORY J. WILLARD Independent Executor Law Office s of M. THOMAS SUITS, P.C. 114 W. Mason St. Polo, IL 61064 (815) 946-2276 tom@suitslegal com

Feb. 6, 13, 20, 2026

Plager, Krug, Bauer, Rudolph & Stodden, Ltd.

E-mail: nbauer@ plager-law.com

Kimberly Stahl Circuit Clerk

Nicole M. Bauer, #6236680

Saturday , APRIL 4, 2026 8:30 A M

Contact us by March 16 with your list for the sale bill/advertising

E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit https://illinois courts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp.

Kimberly Stahl Circuit Clerk

Nicole M. Bauer, #6236680

Consignments can be brought to the auction sight: March 25, 26, 27 between the hours of 7:30 am & 5 pm (gates locked), also Saturday the 28th till noon, closed Sunday, March 29. Open again 7:30 am to 5:00 pm on March 30, 31 & April 1. We reserve right to reject, loads will be screened!!!

Plager, Krug, Bauer, Rudolph & Stodden, Ltd.

Plager, Krug, Bauer, Rudolph & Stodden, Ltd. Attorneys for Petitioner Lincoln-Douglas Center 10 North Galena Avenue Post Office Box 839 Freeport, IL 61032-0839 (815) 235-1212

Attorneys for Petitioner Lincoln-Douglas Center 10 North Galena Avenue Post Office Box 839 Freeport, IL 61032-0839 (815) 235-1212

E-mail: nbauer@ plager-law.com

February 13, 20, 27, 2026

February 13, 20, 27, 2026

E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit https://illinois courts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp.

E-mail: nbauer@ plager-law.com

Viewing only available April 2 & 3 between 9:00 am & 5:00 pm

February 13, 20, 27, 2026

INFO - LYLE HOPKINS (POLO, IL 815-4 41 -125 1 815-9 46- 2660 EMAIL - sl pa spolo@gmail.

E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider Visit https://efile.illinois courts.gov/serviceproviders to learn

Kimberly Stahl Circuit Clerk

Nicole M. Bauer, #6236680 Plager, Krug, Bauer, Rudolph & Stodden, Ltd.

Attorneys for Petitioner Lincoln-Douglas Center 10 North Galena Avenue Post Office Box 839

Attorneys for Petitioner Lincoln-Douglas Center 10 North Galena Avenue Post Office Box 839 Freeport, IL 61032-0839 (815) 235-1212

E-mail: nbauer@ plager-law.com

February 13, 20, 27, 2026

Notice is given of the death of ROGER H. BARNARD Letters of Office were issued on January 27, 2026, to TORY J WILLARD, as Independent Executor Claims against the estate may be filed within six (6) months from the date of first publication, or within 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, 1975, 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 JudicialCenter, 106 South 5th Street, Oregon, IL 61061 or with the estate legal representative, or both. Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.

By: TORY J. WILLARD Independent Executor Law Office s of M. THOMAS SUITS, P.C. 114 W. Mason St. Polo, IL 61064 (815) 946-2276 tom@suitslegal com

Feb. 6, 13, 20,

POLO ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS HEARING Public notice is hereby given to all persons in the City of Polo that a Public Hearing will be held in front of the Zoning Board of Appeals at 6:00p.m on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 in the Polo City Council room, 118 South Franklin Avenue, Polo, Illinois to hear a request filed by John and Amanda Carroll for a change in zoning of TwoFamily Residence District (R-2) to One-Family Residence District (R-1) of 505 S. Congress Ave. This zoning change would be for Parcel ID 1416-182-018, otherwise known as 505 S. Congress Ave., Polo, IL, Ogle County Illinois. Sydney Bartelt, CMC City Clerk

Feb. 13, 20, 2026

Regional showdown

Stillman Valley beat Oregon 54-33 at the 2A Winnebago Regional on Monday, Feb. 16, at Winnebago High School.

By DRAKE LANSMAN dlansman@shawmedia.com

Tuesday, Feb. 10

Boys basketball

Oregon 73, Stillman Valley 39: Benny Olalde scored 25 points to lead the Hawks in the home win. Keaton Salsbury added 15 points and Tucker O’Brien added 11.

Girls basketball

Eastland 54, Polo 42: Sienna Peterson scored 16 points, Tatum Grim (nine rebounds) had 15, and Morgan McCullough added 10 in the Cougars’ win. Cam Jones led Polo with 22 points and Avalyn Henry with nine. Eastland improved to 25-6.

Newman 50, Oregon 18: The Comets jumped out to a 19-4 lead after the first quarter in the dominant road win. Elaina Allen had 12 points, and Lucy Oetting (10 rebounds) added 10 for Newman. Gisselle Martin had 13 rebounds and eight points, and Veronica Haley added nine points and nine boards.

Wednesday, Feb. 11

Boys basketball

Pecatonica 66, Forreston 53: The Cardinals had a five-game win streak snapped in the home loss.

Thursday, Feb. 12

Boys basketball

Fulton 48, Polo 41: Landen Leu led the Steamers with 12 points, while Braedon Meyers and Jacob Voss each scored 11. Mercer Mumford scored 15 points for Polo.

Girls basketball

Oregon 53, Morrison 13: Sarah Eckardt led the Hawks with 15 points, and Aniyah Sarver scored eight in the first quarter of the home win.

Friday, Feb. 13

Boys basketball Forreston 51, Fulton 47: At Forreston, Kendall Erdmann scored 16 to lead the Cardinals over the Steamers. Connor Politsch added 12 and Drayvon Peters 10 for Forreston (15-13, 4-7 in the NUIC). DeAngelo Dodd scored 12 and Jacob Voss 11 for Fulton (11-17, 6-3).

Saturday, Feb. 14

Girls wrestling

Oregon’s Kendra Ege qualifies for state: Ege was the runner-up at 100 pounds at the DeKalb Sectional after falling to the No. 1 seed, DeKalb senior Alex Gregorio-Perez. Ege, a freshman, won her previous three matches by pin and two

technical falls.

Girls basketball

Polo 83, Galva 45: Cam Jones scored 33 points and Carlee Grobe had 25 in the regional quarterfinal win. Polo will face Bureau Valley in Tuesday’s semifinal at Galva at 7:30 p.m. The Storm beat Morrison 51-11.

Orion 54, Forreston 50: The Cardinals fell short in the 1A regional quarterfinal matchup. Xairyn Goeddeke scored 20 points and Hailee Vogt had 18 for Forreston.

Stillman Valley 54, Oregon 33: Sarah Eckardt and Aniyah Sarver each scored 13 points for the fifth-seeded Hawks in the 2A Winnebago Regional semifinal setback. Dailene Wade led the Cardinals with 22 points. Oregon (18-14) finished with its first winning season since going 19-12 in 2014 under Kristy Eckardt.

Boys basketball

Mendota 71, Oregon 62: Benny Olalde led the Hawks with 21 points in the setback. Cooper Johnson and Brian Wallace each had 12. Aden Tillman led Mendota with 21 points. Oregon led 31-30 at halftime.

Hawks advance 2 wrestlers to state meet

By RANDY HOLLAND

Shaw Local News Network correspondent

The Oregon Hawk wrestling team advanced six wrestlers to the 1A Byron Sectional over the weekend, but only two survived the tough competition to move on to the state individual finals in Champaign next weekend.

Nelson Benesh scored a late takedown to the back to come from behind and win the 138-pound championship and Isaiah Perez took fourth at 126 pounds.

Benesh was the regional champion two weeks ago, and Perez was the runner-up to Brandon White of LenaWinslow-Stockton.

Perez defeated White in the consolation semifinal to ensure his advancement.

At 120 pounds, Josiah Perez, a state qualifier the last two seasons and a sixth-place medalist last year, won his quarterfinal 7-1 but went to the ultimate tiebreaker in the semifinal, losing his first match of the season 3-1 on a reversal with eight seconds left in the fourth overtime.

That match took all his energy, and he went down to a fall in the consolation semifinal, ending his hopes for a return to Champaign.

Jack Benesh had three sets of backpoints in a 12-2 major decision win to advance to the 132-pound semifinal. In that match, he was injured on a takedown and was unable to return, and his season ended with an injury default.

Oregon’s other participants in the tournament were Jordan Lowe at 113 pounds and Jacksyn Windham at 215 pounds, both second-place finishers at the regional.

Lowe was defeated by major decisions in the first round and his first wrestleback. Windham also lost by a major decision in the opening round and went down to an 18-1 technical fall at 3:22 in his first consolation match.

Benesh’s quest for the title began in the second round, where he went out to a 7-0 lead but lost a late reversal and held on in the down position for a 10-5 win.

In the semifinal, he had three takedowns, including a nice heel pick in the first period and three more takedowns in the second and third periods to take an 18-5 major decision.

In the final, against Kane Dauber of Princeton, Benesh lost a takedown at the start of the third period to trail 10-1. He picked up a stalling point with 23 seconds left, flipped for a reversal, and let Dauber up. With the clock winding down, Benesh hit a throw and took Dauber to his back and pinned him with 7 seconds left in the match. It was his first win over Dauber in four tries.

“I knew it was going to be a tough match going in,” said Benesh. “When I was nine points down, I had to take some chances. After the reversal, I found my opening and came out on top.

“It was a great win, but the real test will be in Champaign. I have been there twice. I need to bring home some hardware this time.”

Perez started in the first round, taking a reversal and running a chicken wing to finish a 16-0 technical fall at 2:56.

In the quarterfinal, he caught a cradle on a stand-up and scored four points. He added a reversal in the third to win 6-3.

In the semifinal against eventual champion Eli Modglin of Morrison, Perez led 3-2 after two but lost a late takedown and was turned in a half nelson as time expired. He went down 9-3, going to the wrestleback semifinal.

With the trip to state on the line, Perez broke a 6-6 tie with a four-point

weathered a late reverse and stalling call to hold on for a hard-fought

10-9 win.

In the third-place match, Perez was in a scoreless tie after the first, escaped and went for a takedown.

It was ruled a slam, and Lelan Nelson of Richmond Burton was unable to continue, and Perez lost by disqualification. With the fourth-place finish, the sophomore will make his second trip to the finals.

SPORTS

Oregon’s

Saturday, Feb.

TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY

1952: American alpine skier Andrea Mead-Lawrence is the only multi-gold medallist at the Oslo Winter Olympics when she wins the slalom, after taking out the inaugural giant slalom.

Friday, February 20, 2026

SECTIONAL SURVIVORS

Benesh’s late pin and Perez’s fourth-place finish send two Hawks to state / 15