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PRAIRIE ADVOCATE NORTHWEST ILLINOIS’ NEWS SOURCE • prairieadvocate.com

HEADED BACK NORTH Two sandhill cranes fly over Lock & Dam 13 between Fulton and Thomson along the Mississippi River on Saturday. The Northwest Illinois Audubon Society invites interested persons to join them for a visit to the Mississippi River south of Savanna to view migrating waterfowl on Saturday, March 27. Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

Vol. 81 • No. 26 One Section • 12 Pages

ECRWSS PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #440 STERLING, IL

Wednesday, March 10, 2021

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

SPECIAL EVENT

Humphreys take the plunge for Special Olympics BY BRIAN WEIDMAN bweidman@shawmedia.com COVID-19 wasn’t going to stop the Humphrey family from taking the plunge. Kent and Audrey Humphrey have a daughter, Tori, who has been active in Special Olympics since 2010. She enjoys softball, bowling and basketball, but track and field is her favorite, and specifically, the running part of it. When asked what her favorite part of Special Olympics was, 22-year-old Tori noted it was the camaraderie, not necessarily the competition. “I like meeting new friends and hanging out with my friends,” Tori said. A popular fundraiser for Special Olympics has been the polar plunge, in which people would accumulate donations in exchange for jumping into an icy river or lake. Events like these generally result in large gatherings, a no-no in these COVID days. That got the Humphreys to thinking. They would have to come up with an alternative this year to the polar plunge. “Tori had never done the plunge before as an athlete,” Audrey said, “and since COVID hit last year, I knew that Special Olympics, for their fundraising efforts, was going to take a big hit. Obviously they can’t have big groups do the plunge like they did in years past. We told Tori, ‘Let’s give it our all this year,

Photos Supplied

Tori Humphrey (above) and her band of superhero supporters (left) took the polar plunge for Special Olympics in a Morrison snowbank. and I’m going to have you do the plunge, and we need to come up with an idea that doesn’t take a big group for us to do.’ They didn’t want us to do big bodies of water because of the safety factor.” Kent and Audrey Humphrey both work as part-time bailiffs for Whiteside County Sheriff John Booker. They approached Booker, a supporter of Special Olympics, with an idea. Instead of a large group of people dunking themselves in a frigid body of water, how about a small group immersing themselves in snow? It was part of a Plunge at Home series sponsored by Special Olympics, in which it encouraged participants “to be bold and get cold.”

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Booker was all aboard. “They know I’m active with the Special Olympics and asked me if I’d be interested,” Booker said. “Of course I said yes, because it’s such a great organization.” The next step was how to present it. They came up with something unique. “We wanted to think outside the box,” Audrey said, “and thought, ‘We think the athletes, along with the volunteers and anybody that has

any type of dealings with Special Olympics, are heroes because they include our children.’ I’m like, ‘Why don’t we all dress up as superheroes?’ “Tori, we think of as somebody pretty special, so we let her pick, and she picked Wonder Woman. We just all followed suit in finding superheroes.” On Feb. 4, Booker dressed as Superman, Audrey dressed as Batwoman and Kent dressed as Captain America. On a day when it was a relatively warm 30 degrees, but very windy, the group ventured out into the Humphreys’ backyard in Morrison and took the plunge. “It was fun,” Tori said. “It was cool.” “Everything with the job of being sheriff, doing things like this adds a little humor and enjoyment to the job,” Booker said. “It was for such a great cause, and I definitely enjoyed it.” Audrey Humphrey had recently purchased a new phone before the plunge date and was still learning about all of its functions. She was able to piece together a video of the experience. It can be found on YouTube at https://youtu.be/yesMTByC8Vg, and

See PLUNGE, Page 3

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE For information on classified advertisements, display advertisements or billing please dial: For information815-625-3600 on classified advertisements, Fax 815-625-9390 display advertisements or billing please dial: For editorial 815-625-3600 please dial: 815-625-3600 www.prairieadvocate.com Fax 815-625-9390 For editorial please dial: 815-625-3600 www.prairieadvocate.com Publisher .......................................... Jennifer Heintzelman Circulation ........................................................ Abbie Clark Editor ........................................................... Earleen Hinton Advertising Sales ................................... Angelica Martinez The Prairie Advocate is published weekly by Sauk Valley Media, a division of B.F. Shaw Printing Co. Member of Shaw Newspapers and the Audit Bureau of Circulations. The Prairie Advocate is published weekly by Sauk Valley Media, a division of The publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of errors in adver B.F. Shaw Printing Co. Member of Shaw Newspapers and the Audit Bureau oftisements beyond the amount paid for space actually occupied by that portion Circulations. of the advertisement in which the error occurred - whether such error is due The publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of errors in adver to the negligence of the publisher’s staff or otherwise - and there shall be notisements beyond the amount paid for space actually occupied by that portion liability for non-insertion of any advertisement beyond the amount paid for such of the advertisement in which the error occurred - whether such error is due advertisement. to the negligence of the publisher’s staff or otherwise - and there shall be no liability for non-insertion of any advertisement beyond the amount paid for such advertisement.

4H NEWS

BY LYNETTE FORTH For Shaw Media Members of the Carroll County Kids 4H group recently raised $300 to assist in the funding for Carroll County’s K-9 officers. Mike Holland, who is currently partnered with K-9 Meni, attended the clubs fall meeting and demonstrated just how much of an asset Meni is to the community. While Meni is still in service, she is nearing retirement, and the county recently acquired another K-9 that will eventually replace Meni. Holland explained that a new dog has been purchased, and is currently in training with a new handler. 4H Club members wanted to raise funds as part of their community service project and the kids really had an interest in the K-9 program. Holland and Officer Ponnell hosted a very informative and entertaining program for the group, showing them the different things Meni is trained to do, including apprehending a suspect. Carroll County Kids raised money for the project by selling Little Caesars Pizza kits, and donated a portion of their profit to Holland and Meni. Holland said the cost involved in caring for Meni, as well as purchasing and training the new K-9 and handler. He said that with the donation from the club, he will likely purchase a first aid kit specially made for K-9 dogs. Following her retirement Meni will continue to reside with Holland and his family. “She is a part of our family,” he said. The cost of a six week training program for dog and handler is $15,000. A fully equipped squad car is $45,000 and a K-9 ballistic vest is $1,200. A bite suit for training is $1,600. Other expenses include: food, kennel, veterinary care, collars, various types of leashes, harnesses, brushes, nail trimming items, and an outdoor heater.

• PLUNGE Continued from Page 2 and it has been viewed more than 4,000 times. Viewers also have a chance to donate, and at last check, a little more than $3,000 has been raised for Special Olympics. Donations can be made through March 28.

Photos by Lynette Forth

ABOVE: Members of the Carroll County Kids 4H group recently raised funds to assist in the funding for Carroll County’s K-9 officers. Pictured here are some of the 4H members and K9 Office Mike Holland and Meni. LEFT AND BELOW: Holland and his partner Meni gave a demonstration to the 4H club last fall.

That money helps local and regional Special Olympics projects operate – things the Humphreys have been a part of for the past decade. “I don’t think people understand the experience until they’ve actually gone to one of these events, to see how everything comes together and how much joy it brings to everybody involved,” Audrey said. “You really start to see the beauty and

humanity of people. High schoolers, whether it’s cheerleaders, a basketball team, whatever – [Special Olympics] tries to recruit them to be volunteers to help, and when you do, you actually start to see the change in them too.” It’s made a difference in the Humphrey family. “Tori has gotten a lot out of Special Olympics,” Audrey said.

“It really brought her out of her shell. The more interaction and the more opportunities kids with special needs get, the better off they are and the better off everybody is. One of the things people talk about when they get involved with Special Olympics is how much better they feel afterwards, like they made a difference.”

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

4-H Club donates to Carroll County K9 program

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

FATALITY

Woman found dead in Rock Falls Civic Plaza Residents evacuated from 9-story building after March 5 fire By KATHLEEN A. SCHULTZ kschultz@shawmedia.com ROCK FALLS – A 59-year-old woman whose body was found in Friday’s Civic Plaza 1 has been identified as Eunice D. Karr, Coroner Joe McDonald said Sunday. An autopsy is scheduled for this week, he said. The cause of the March 5 highrise fire still is under investigation, but it is not suspicious, Twin City Command Deputy Chief Mike Dettman said. Twelve to 14 of the 100 units sustained long-term water damage, Dettman said. Six people were rescued from the fifth floor using the ladder truck, all others were evacuated using the stairs, because the fire disabled the elevator and for safety reasons. Five of the six were found in their apartments, moved to another apartment, then taken out the window and down the ladder. The sixth, who was the first person rescued, was taken down from a few windows away. There might have been more fatalities, but “all the residents sheltered in place like they were supposed to, and that helped us greatly,” Dettman said. Four or five residents were taken to CGH Medical Center that night; the other residents were taken to the Rock Falls Community Center to await family and friends, or other arrangements. The Red Cross was on scene, and helped secure temporary housing for those who needed it. Residents were allowed back into the building Saturday and Sunday to retrieve medication and other necessary items, escorted by maintenance workers. The state fire marshal, Rock Falls Fire Department and the Illinois State Police Crime Scene Services are investigating, the latter only as a precaution, because the fire involves a fatality, Dettman said. Dettman put out the call for multiple agencies to respond because he knew the nine-story building, a Whiteside County Housing Authority site, is home to many low-income elderly and disabled people. “I knew it was going to take two

Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@shawmedia.com

ABOVE: Firefighters remove a victim from the Rock Falls Civic Plaza. BELOW: Yellow tape surrounds Civic Plaza 1 in Rock Falls on Saturday morning. The high rise was evacuated Friday night after a fire broke out on the fifth floor, where firefighters found the body of 59-year-old Eunice D. Karr. firefighters to get them down the stairs,” he said, adding that Sterling and Rock Falls police as well as responding firefighters all assisted in getting people out of the building to safety. Fire crews responded to the scene, 1101 5th Ave. in Rock Falls, at 9:46 p.m. Civic Plaza is occupied by more than 100 residents. Several area fire departments responded to assist at the scene. Rock Falls Police were assisted by officers from the Sterling Police Department, Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office, Illinois State Police and Prophetstown Police Department. The evacuated residents were taken to the Rock Falls Community Building until other temporary housing arrangements could be made.

BRIEFS

SAVANNA –The Northwest Illinois Audubon Society invites interested persons to join them for a visit to the Mississippi River south of Savanna to view migrating waterfowl on Saturday, March 27. Participants will meet at the river overlook across from the FWS Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center, 7071 Riverview Rd., Thomson. This field trip is free of charge, but participants must call leader Mary Blackmore at 815-938-3204 to register. For more information, visit the Northwest Illinois Audubon Society website at <nwilaudubon.org.

ENF’s annual meeting set for Saturday, March 27 APPLE RIVER – The Eagle Nature Foundation will have its annual meeting and fund raising luncheon at 11 a.m. March 27 at the Apple River Event Center, at the east edge of Apple River just

two blocks east of ENF’s office. This meeting is open to the general public. The registration and meal cost is $25 for each member, or $30 per non-member. The luncheon will be catered by the Sidetrack Café in Apple River. If you have special food requirements, please explain them when you register, so they can be taken care of. A silent auction will begin at 11 a.m. and the luncheon will begin at 11:30. The fund-raising auction will be at 12:30 p.m. with announcement of the winners of the silent auction and the drawing for the $5 per ticket, 50-50 raffle and the $2 raffle. The Annual Business Meeting and Award Ceremony for ENF members will begin at 1 p.m. There will be a slide show at 2 p.m. on the Bruce Camp, a one week Canadian nature camp. If you have any items to donate to the silent auction or the noisy fund raising auction, please bring them with you to the meeting on that day, or get them to our business office, prior to March 22. All items are welcome. Call 815-594-2306 or write ENF, 300 E. Hickory St., Apple River, IL 61001, to make reservations by March 22.

Omer and Joyce Deets were marred on March 11, 1951.

Deets mark 70th anniversary Omer and Joyce Deets of Milledgeville will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on March 11. Omer Deets and Joyce Zier were married March 11, 1951 at First Brethren Church in Milledgeville. They are the parents of Leanne Reecher of Jacksonville, Flori-

da and Norman Deets and Marti Deets, both of Milledgeville. They have two grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Those wishing to send greetings may address cards to 31371 Barclay Road, Milledgeville, IL 61051.

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PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

Spring Mississippi River waterfowl trip is March 27

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

FARM BUREAU COLUMN

We have a record number of scholarship applications COMMENTARY A

pplications are now available for nurse practitioner scholarships through the Illinois Farm Bureau® Rural Nurse Practitioner Scholarship Program. There will be 15 scholarships, worth $4,000 each, granted this year. The scholarship program, now in its twenty-ninth year, helps encourage and develop the pool of rural health practitioners to help meet primary health care needs in rural Illinois. Students who receive scholarships agree to practice for two years in an approved rural area in Illinois. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be Illinois residents and be a Registered Nurse accepted or enrolled in an accredited Nurse Practitioner Program. Funding is provided by the Rural Illinois Medical Student Assistance Program. Applications are available at county Farm Bureaus® throughout the state, on the Rural Illinois Medical Student Assistance Program website at RIMSAP.com, or by writing Donna Gallivan, program manager, Illinois Farm Bureau, PO Box 2901, Bloomington, IL 61702-2901. Applica-

AT A GLANCE Chastity Welch

tions are due May 1. For additional information, contact Donna Gallivan at 309-557-2350, or via email at dgallivan@ilfb.org. Wow! We had a record number of scholarship applications this year hitting a total of 16! It is exciting to see so many going into ag and ag business. Agriculture is the nation’s largest industry, employing approximately 23 million people in over 250 careers. However less than one percent of the population claim farming as their occupation. The remaining jobs are segmented into seven areas including: plant sciences, animal sciences, agricultural mechanics, agricultural business, environmental services, food science, and natural resources. Illinois leads the nation in processed food sales. Illinois ranks fourth in the nation for the num-

Carroll County Farm Bureau members can place up to two free classified ads per week, with a limit of 250 characters per ad (not including spaces). Ads are limited to personal or farm items for sale/wanted to buy, or farm labor or services available or wanted. No ads for the sale or rental of real estate, garage sales, or commercial businesses will be accepted.

For Sale: Big round bales, first and second cut hay, good quality, wet wrapped, 815-541-5761 For Sale: Mixed Firewood. 815-225-7824. For Sale: 4 hand-quilted quilts, sewn by Irene Woods former Mt. Carroll school teacher, bought at Kenny Woods Farm Sale. 815-541-6592. For Sale: JD 7000 planter. 4 row, 38 in. $4,500 or best offer. Ear corn elevator really good shape; used last year. $800. 563-271-0001 For Sale: 30ft McFarland Reel disk. Very Good condition. 815-821-3397. For Sale: Pint Jars of local honey. $8. 563-357-3911. Thomson area. ber of farmers markets. We rank fourth in the nation for agricultural exports and fifth in the nation for processed food exports. As you can see ag is quite important to the economy of our state. Being involved in ag was not something I ever saw as my adult career. In fact if you have been reading my column over the years you

likely know that my dream job was downtown Chicago, certainly not Carroll County. But I found it was an industry I enjoyed being in. I have used my story when I speak to younger groups of students as they are starting to look at what they want to be when they grow up, especially the girls in high school.

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SPORTS ROUNDUP GIRLS BASKETBALL

Coatney Eastland’s Erin Henze See SPORTS, Page 9Eastland’s Lydia Fulton’s Connor Barnett (1) scores during Saturday action against Polo at the Stan Borgman Court in Fulton.

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7 15

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Advocate / prairieadvocate.com •Wednesday, • Wednesday,March March18, 10, 2020 2021 Prairie Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com

Coatney, Henze named to SVM all-area team EP beats Newman: Erie-Prophetstown got the best of Newman on Friday for the second time in a week, and didn’t need double overtime this time. The Panthers beat the Comets 60-48 in Erie on Friday, three days after a 74-71 double overtime win in Newman’s gym. On Friday, Kolby Franks led Erie-Prophetstown with 19 points. Bryce Rosenow added 18, hitting four 3-pointers along the way. Dawson Haggard added 12. Marcus Williams led the Comets with 21 points. Luke Jungerman added 11. EP led 13-10 after one, 25-24 at halftime, and 46-34 after three, with 10 points from Rosenow fueling the third-quarter surge. The Panthers hit 8 of 12 free throws in the fourth quarter to help put the game away. Fulton 52, Orion 44: Connor Barnett scored his 1,000th career point in a Steamers’ TRAC win to improve to 11-1 on the season. He finished with 16 points. Ian Wiebenga added 14, and Kyler Pessman scored 13. Fulton led 15-4 after one quarter, 25-19 at halftime and 39-30 after three quarters.Eastland’s Lydia Coatney

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LOCAL NEWS

Tax help is available at Carroll County Senior Center, but with new procedures for 2021 BY SANDRA AUDE Carroll County Local Tax-Aide Coordinator

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide will once again be preparing taxes at the Carroll County Senior Center, but with some changes and requirements. Taxes will not be prepared face to face as in the past. We are looking to use a “drop-off model” to limit contact with clients. If you already have your name on the list of interested clients, you will be contacted to set-up an appointment. Each taxpayer is required to bring their social security card, a picture identification (driver’s license), and the forms to file income tax (W-2, 1099s for retirement, social security, interest, dividends, etc.). You will be asked to fill-out the 13614-C Intake/ Interview & Quality Review Sheet and have an interview with a tax facilitator to go over all of your information. Once your interview is completed your will leave all of your forms with the facilitator and leave the Senior Center. Your taxes will be prepared by a qualified counselor. When your tax return is completed you will be called to set an appointment to go over your return and sign form 8879 authorizing e-filing – if

If your filing status is ... And at the end of 2020 you were ...

Then file a return if gross income was at least ...

Single

Under age 65 Age 65 or Older $14,050

$12,400

Both under age 65 One spouse age 65 or older Both spouses age 65 or older

$24,400 $26,100 $27,400

Married Filing Jointly

filing married but jointly, a signature if required from each spouse. Everyone coming into the Senior Center is required to wear a mask and practice social distancing. Once your tax return is completed you will be able to complete your Carroll County tax freeze paperwork with Deb Connor or Karen Holm. If your tax return is not complicated, you may consider doing your own taxes online through several tax preparation programs. Most of them are free if you meet the program’s requirements. One option is IRS.gov for federal returns and Illinois.gov for state returns. One other thing to think about, especially if

you are a senior or disabled is if your income meets the filing threshold or requirement. Gross Income means all income you received in the form of money, goods, property and services that isn’t exempt from tax but does not include any social security benefits. The above filing status categories are the most common. Please check the IRS Instructions for Form 1040 to file as - married filing separately, head of household, or qualifying widow(er). If you usually do not file income tax but have not received your stimulus payment (if you qualify), you may want to file income tax for 2020 to be able to get your stimulus tax credit.

IN BRIEF FREEPORT – Cornerstone Credit Union is now accepting applications for their 2021 Founders’ Scholarship Program. Cornerstone will be awarding 4, $1250 one-time scholarships, for a total of $5,000 to deserving high school seniors. The deadline for submission is March 31. The Founders’ Scholarship Program awards students who have exemplified leadership and dedication throughout their high school scholastic career and who plan to attend an accredited college, university, community college, or technical-trade school. Visit cornerstonecu.org for an application and full details. Applicants must be a current Cornerstone Credit Union member as of Feb. 28. Membership is

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5544 sq. ft., 6 BR, 4.5 Baths, 21.76 Acres, 3+ Car Garage

FULTON - $68,500

1008 sq. ft, 3 BR, 1 Bath, 0.15 Acre Lot, 1 Car Garage

LAKE CARROLL - $465,000

MILLEDGEVILLE - $64,900

SAVANNA - $110,000

THOMSON - $72,000

5103 sq. ft., 6 BR, 4.5 Baths, 1.15 Acre Lot, 3 Car Garage

OFFICE HOURS:

MON., TUES., & THURS. 10-5PM MO PM CLOSED WEDNESDAYS FRIDAY 9-5PM

630 S. East St., Mt. Carroll, IL www.purleedental.com

SM-ST1862105

Credit Union offers scholarships

SM-ST1862965

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

934 sq. ft., 2 BR, 1.5 Baths, 0.20 Acre Lot, 1 Car Garage

2675 sq. ft., 2 Units, Downtown Commercial, 0.07 Acre Lot

1180 sq. ft., 2 BR, 1 Bath, 0.59 Acre Lot, 1 Car Garage

• SPORTS Continued from Page 7 GIRLS BASKETBALL Eastland 62, AFC 17: The Cougars cruised past the Raiders in Lanark. Karlie Krogman had 13 points, five rebounds, a steal and an assist to pace Eastland. Addison Burkholder had nine points, five rebounds, three steals and four assists. Delana Erbsen had eight points. Alyssa Miller had four points and six rebounds. Eastland jumped out to a 25-0 lead after one quarter and led 39-8 at halftime. Polo 55, Milledgeville 33: The Marcos picked up an NUIC home win over the Missiles. Polo led 18-6 after one quarter and 32-12 at halftime. Polo saw 11 different players score, with eight points from Natalie Nelson and Lindee Poper to lead the way. Adriana Miller led the Missiles with 14 points. Ali Mertz added nine. BOYS BASKETBALL Fulton downs Polo: Connor Barnett scored 25 points to pace Fulton in a 66-46 win over Polo on Saturday. Patrick Wiebenga added nine. The Steamers improved to 11-1 for the season. Princeton 55, Newman 52: The Comets fell to the Tigers in a close game at Prouty Gym. The game was tied 13-13 after one

quarter before the Tigers took a 25-22 lead into halftime and led 41-36 after three. Luke Jungerman led the Comets with 12 points. Jake Ackman added 10. Marcus Williams scored nine and Nate Neubauer added eight. Lena-Winslow 59, Eastland 46: The Cougars fell to Le-Win in the NUIC. Kellen Henze scored 29 points, knocking down five 3-pointers. Drew Burkholder added five. Eastland led 9-6 after one quarter and 26-18 at halftime before the Panthers outscored the Cougars 21-7 in the third. Stockton 38, Amboy 19: The Clippers could not get past Stockton. Simpson led the Clippers with five points. Stockton jumped out to an 11-4 lead after one quarter and led 23-9 at halftime. BIG NORTHERN TOURNAMENT Rockford Lutheran 78, Rock Falls 56: The Rockets fell to the top-seeded team in the Big Northern Tournament in the quarterfinal. Gavin Sands led the way for the Rockets with 17 points. Chase Chappell followed up a strong Friday game with 16 on Saturday. Braydin Mulnix added nine. Lutheran led 20-15 after one quarter, 37-26 at halftime and 64-37 after three. Genoa-Kingston 61, Dixon 59: The Dukes could not get past the Cogs in the Big Northern quarterfinal.

Jacob Gaither scored 19 points. Riey Abell added 17. Ryan Pitzer scored seven. Dixon led 14-12 after one quarter before the Cogs scored 19 in the second to take a 31-27 halftime lead. The Dukes scored 20 in the third, taking a 47-43 lead, but Genoa-Kingston scored 18 in the final quarter to pull out the win. GIRLS BASKETBALL West Carroll 42, Erie-Prophetstown 29: A strong second half rallied the Thunder to a home nonconference win over the Panthers. The teams played an even 9-9 first quarter and the Panthers led 19-18 at halftime before the Thunder outscored them 12-4 in the third and 12-6 in the fourth. Madison Haynes scored 19 points to lead the Thunder. Tori Moshure added 10 points, five rebounds, four assists and four steals. Kylie Hill scored nine points and grabbed five steals. Mak Glassburn led the Panthers with 10. Aquin 64, Forreston 33: Forreston fell to Aquin in Freeport. Paityn Broshous led Forreston with 12. Maddie Hildebrand led Aquin with 20 points. Eastland 57, Lena-Winslow 29: Eastland cruised to a win over LenaWinslow. Karlie Krogman and Talena Rogers each scored 15 for the Cougars. Addison Burkholder added eight points. Krogman also had 11 rebounds, three steals and

four assists. Rogers had six rebounds and two assists. Eastland jumped out to a 19-6 lead after one quarter and led 33-16 at halftime. Amboy 62, Stockton 53: Mallory Powers scored 24 points and grabbed five rebounds in a Clippers’ win. Gabby Jones added 12 points and nine rebounds. Abi Payne had 10 points and 11 assists. Olivia Dinges had 11 points and 11 rebounds. Brynn Haas led Stockton with 26. SWIMMING Sterling came away with a win in the JHawk Invitational at Rockford Jefferson. The Water Warriors scored 271 points to beat second-place Belvidere (223.5) and third-place Byron (215). Sterling’s medley relay of Austin Reiley, Braeden Ruiz, Michael Garland and Calvin Sandefer raced to a win in 1:41.23, beating Byron’s Levi Schamper, Nathan Bell, Carson Faley and Tyson Politsch who touched in 1:43.74. Faley won the individual medley in 1:58.58, the 500 freestyle in 4:42.17 and teamed up with Bell, Schamper and Politsch to win the 400 freestyle in 3:24.12. Sandefer won the 50 freestyle in 22.56 and the 100 freestyle in 49.21. Garland won the 100 butterfly in 54.93 and the 100 breaststroke in 1:00.52. Austin won the backstroke in 54.79. Garland, Sandefer, Austin and Mason Adams won the 200 freestyle in 1:30.13.

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media

LEFT: Fulton’s Kyler Pessman defends a Polo player during Saturday action against Polo at the Stan Borgman Court in Fulton. RIGHT: Polo’s Tyler Meridian drives to the basket against Fulton’s Ian Wiebenga.

Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

A CLOSER LOOK

Natalie’s tragic legacy: A safer intersection is in the works on the north edge of Sterling BY KATHLEEN A. SCHULTZ kschultz@shawmedia.com STERLING – Twenty-nine crashes in the past six years alone. That’s the reality of the intersection just past the northern edge of the city limits, where Locust Street becomes state Route 40 and intersects with the more rural Science Ridge Road. One of those crashes – not even the last one, mind you – happened a little more than four months ago, on Oct. 26. It took the life of 15-year-old Natalie Williams, a Morrison High sophomore nicknamed Bug who liked art, and games, and true-crime TV. The driver of the eastbound car, only a year older than Natalie and likely inexperienced and unfamiliar with the area, failed to stop at the stop sign. His car was struck on the passenger side by a northbound semi. The driver was injured. Natalie died at the scene. It seems the universe, drawing a grieving breath, decided that was the last straw. Last week, after a confluence of conversations by people who at first didn’t even know they were working together, rumble strips were cut into either side of Science Ridge as it approaches Route 40. That was the work of Sterling Township, which oversees Science Ridge and is paying the Lee County highway department for its time and the use of its equipment. On back order are flashing lights that will be attached to the signs that warn motorists of the stop signs ahead, township Road Supervisor Dana Stutzke said. The stop signs are now larger and outlined with flashing red lights. That’s the work of the Illinois Department of Transportation, which is responsible for Route 40 and the signs on its approach. For now, those are temporary, inexpensive fixes. In the works is a larger IDOT engineering study. Why is that intersection so dangerous, and what can be done to change that? Engineers will study the lay of the area, the crash history and related crash data – What were the drivers doing? What were the weather conditions? What was the traffic like? – and come up with recommendations. In a couple of months, when some possible solutions have been identi-

Photos by Alex T. Paschal – apaschal@shawmedia.com

ABOVE: The intersection at Science Ridge Road and state Route 40 in Sterling has seen 29 crashes in the past 6 years, Whiteside County Sheriff John Booker said. As of this week, the stop signs on either side of 40 now are equipped with flashing lights. BELOW: Work crews install rumble strips on Science Ridge Road as it approaches state Route 40 on the north edge of Sterling. The two signs that warn of an upcoming stop sign soon will have flashing lights affixed, to further grab drivers’ attention. fied, IDOT plans a public hearing to get community input on the potential fixes: realigning roads leading to the intersection, installing a four-way stop or Natalie Williams maybe a roundabout, maybe just the flashing signs, maybe none of the above, maybe something completely different. One path will be chosen, and funding will be sought, Becky Marruffo, engineer of program development in the IDOT district office in Dixon, said in an interview last week. Marruffo lives in Sterling and said she is familiar with that intersection. Most of her colleagues at the Dixon office are from the area, and the day after Natalie’s death, they were texting one another about yet another crash and what it would take to get an unfunded project off the ground, she said. When Stutzke was checking out the intersection in December in preparation for the new signage,

he noticed IDOT people across the street and learned they were doing essentially the same thing, he said March 1. Both agencies are being spurred on by Ruth Eberle of Wyoming, Natalie’s grandmother, who on behalf of her son Alex has been calling Stutzke, Marruffo, the Whiteside County sheriff’s department, and anyone she could think of after her granddaughter’s death, wanting to know what they were going to do about that intersection. “People have continuously said, ‘Boy, something needs to be done about that intersection’,” Eberle said. Nothing had been done before because work at that intersection hadn’t been budgeted, Marruffo said. There is a fund, though, that pays

for projects deemed necessary, and she is confident it will pay for work done here. Eberle hasn’t seen the intersection herself, is not sure she wants to, or is able to, yet. Last week, she created a Facebook page – Science Ridge Road/Route 40 concerns – to let the community know what’s going on, and to ask that people add their voices to her calls for change, and to help hold officials to their promises. All she wants is for no other family to go through what hers has, the pain and the anger, she said. “I have asked that these entities all work diligently in making this intersection a safe intersection so that no one will receive a call like our family did,” Eberle said.

815-625-3600 or 815-284-2222

ANNOUNCEMENTS

124

CELEBRATE RECOVERY! A program based on the Bible. Weekly Meeting Every Friday from 6:00-8:00 P.M. at York Community Church, Thomson, IL. Contact: Robert Heath @ 815-2593550.

HOMES FOR RENT

310

CHADWICK 3BR country home, Chadwick, 2 car gar. 815-499-0463

EMPLOYMENT

505

CDL TRUCK DRIVER

Winstead Pallet Salvage Hours are MonFri 6am to 3pm. Some days may be until 4:00. Deliveries are local. Please call 815-626-9545 to set up an appointment.

EMPLOYMENT

505

LICENSED EXPERIENCED F/T NURSE 2-10 pm Please call for application: AVONLEA COTTAGE STERLING 815-626-5439

MAINTENANCE PERSON PART TIME St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Amboy 29 hours/week. Call Parish Office 815-857-2315 between 8am & noon to set up interview.

LEGAL NOTICES

101

CLOTHING

730

RIP -N- TEAR: Sewing RepairsBlue Jeans, Work Clothes & Zippers Replaced. In Thomson area 815-541-3178

MISCELLANEOUS 796 FOR SALE

Angus Beef Premium, AllNatural & Locally Raised. No Antibiotics or Hormones. Quarters, Halves or Wholes Available. April 2021 pick up. Reserve your order now at www. SunnyRidgeFam ilyFarm.com or call 847.857.1026

LEGAL NOTICES

101

INVITATION TO BID Shannon Cemetery District will be accepting lawncare bids for the 2021 mowing season for Brethren Cemetery (Division St) and Shelly Cemetery (E. Hwy 72) Sealed bids must be postmarked by 4/1/21. Bids will be opened at Board Meeting 4/6/21. Winning bidder will be notified 4/8/21. For bid packets, contact: Ernie Johnson – Trustee 815-541-9738 ecjohnson1953@gmail.com Cemetery Board Reserves the right to accept or reject any bid. March 10, 17, 2021

Sometimes it really is as simple as

black & white.

EMPLOYMENT

505

EMPLOYMENT

505

HUMAN RESOURCES (HR) MANAGER

Must have a strong record of success as a manager or asst manager of a HR Department(s). Starting salary will be negotiated on the basis of prior experience, reasons for leaving prior employment, and prior salaries. Job will consist of: Managing HR Department Locating highly qualified applicants Writing new employee manual Recommending: salaries & benefits Be available to start now or in a very short period. Please mail resume to: RCRCC, LLC Box 546, Dixon Post Office Dixon, IL 61021

EMPLOYMENT

505

EMPLOYMENT

505

SALESPERSONS

We have advertising solutions to fit your needs! CALL 815-625-3600 OR 815-284-2222

RCRCC, LLC is now hiring Salespersons to locate individuals and businesses, to purchase a product that is not physical in nature, a food or drink product, a non-drug, a multi-level marketing system, but a high quality “service” that should be welcomed by our future clients or customers. Service area covers northern 1/3 of Illinois (outside of Chicago). Over a period of the next 4-5 months, RCRCC, LLC will be hiring: 5 Sales Managers 20 Sales Persons Please mail resume to: RCRCC, LLC Box 546, Dixon Post Office Dixon, IL 61021

AUCTIONEERS, LLC LAND COMPANY LLC INTERESTED IN SELLING LAND AT AUCTION OR PRIVATE LISTING? CONTACT YOUR LOCAL REP.

Inside Sales Representative Dixon, IL

Sauk Valley Media has a full-time opening for an Inside Sales Representative. Sauk Valley Media, part of Shaw Media, publishes two daily newspapers: the Telegraph and the Daily Gazette,nine weekly publications and also maintains a vibrant and timely online and social media presence. About This Opportunity: This position requires excellent relationship building skills, a positive team driven attitude, written and verbal communication skills, excellent phone skills, goal driven, multitasking ability, computer and typing skills, ability to manage deadlines, strong organizational skills, an eye for detail, and a proactive work ethic. About Shaw Media: Shaw Media publishes over 150 titles in Illinois and Iowa. Its holdings include websites, newspapers, magazines, a video production unit and a digital marketing services division. Founded in Dixon, Illinois, Shaw Media has been privately owned by the Shaw family since its inception in 1851. Enjoy the Rewards of Working Among the Best: In return for your contributions to our success, Shaw Media offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and 401(k) with company match, as well as opportunities to advance within the company.

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

Prairie Advocate Classifieds

Apply Today! Please submit a cover letter and resume: Apply online: www.shawmedia.com/careers Or Mail to: Sauk Valley Media Human Resources 113 S. Peoria Avenue Shaw Dixon, Media IL 61021 est. 1851

est. 1851

Shaw Media is a Drug-Free Employer. Pre-employment background check and drug screen required. This posting may not include all duties of the position.

DALE JONES (309) 299-6400

TO DISCUSS A POSSIBLE AUCTION OR PRIVATE LISTING! Sullivan Auctioneers, LLC • TF (844) 847-2161 www.SullivanAuctioneers.com • IL Lic. 444000107

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Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, March 10, 2021

PRAIRIE ADVOCATE

Carroll County Farm Bureau Thanks you for your support!

Join Illinois Farm Bureau Today! Illinois Farm Bureau works to:

The Carroll County Farm Bureau Young Leaders Would Like To Thank Everyone Who Participated In The Annual Harvest For All. Due To The Overwhelming Generosity Of The Carroll County Farmers, The Young Leaders Were Able To Collect

$36,098.36

• Increase farm income opportunities • Be the lead on environmental stewardship efforts • Build trust with consumers

In addition, members enjoy exclusive access to more than 300,000 discounts including discounts on equipment and supplies from:

For more information, call Carroll County Farm Bureau at 815-244-3001

The Committee Will Distribute All The Proceeds To The Carroll County Food Pantries And Those In Need. We Would Like To Thank The Following Contributors. • ACR Transportation, LTD • Adolph Red Angus/Randall & Jane Adolph • Kevin & DiAnn Adolph • Kurt & Sheila Alexander • Larry & Linda Alexander • Andresen Farms • Aaron & Melinda Appel • Randy Appel • Ray & Jan Appel • Badtke Farms • Roy Book • Gerald & Diann Cassens • COUNTRY Financial Agents; John Bickelhaupt & Ernie Bates • Daehler Farms • Ben & Kelli Daehler • Brian & Melissa Daehler

• Durward Farms • Curtis & Sara Derrer • Richard Delp • Eastland Feed & Grain • Faulkner Farms • Carollynn Fink • Chris & Deanna Fink • Tom & Theresa Fink • Ron & Marsha Foltz • James & Laurie Foltz • FS Grain • Trevor & Taylor Fransene • Freedom Hills Ranch • Flikkema Farms • Dustin Hook • Hopkins Family Farm • John & Susan Hopkins • J&J Farms • Janssen Farms

• Mike & Dawn Johnson • Kurt Krum • Lamoreux Farms • Doug & Jeanette Linker • Ludwig Family Farms • Martz-Spears Farms • Gale & Adam Miller Farms • MKA Farms-Ryan Atherton • Walter and Lavonne Nelson • ODK Wagenknecht Farm • Bill & Dee Pilgrim • Curt & Anna Pilgrim • Steve & Holly Queckboerner • Correy & Kellie Rahn Family • Elmer & Annette Rahn Jr. • Judy Rahn • Justin & Ellen Rahn • Kyle & Nicole Ruter • Tim & Barb Ruter

• Bryan & Chelsea Schoeny • Kent & Julie Schoeny • Denny & Karen Schriner • Austin & Marti Schriner • Keith & Joanie Schriner • Brenden & Stephanie Schultz • Smith Farming Corporation • Darrell & Carol Stoner • Ryan & Shelley Stoner • Steve & Jamie Stoner • Sturtevant Grain Farms • Vos Farms • Bill & Margo Weber • Dave & Beth Wilkinson • Brian & Sharon Witt • Justin & Augusta Witt • Ray and Melissa Woessner • Woessner Acres – Brad & Brett

Since 2005, Carroll County Farmers Have Donated $401,298.98 To The Young Leaders Harvest For All. Thank You To All Who Have Contributed These Past 16 Years!

Access more than

Join Carroll County Farm Bureau to take advantage

811 South Clay Street • Mount Carroll, IL 61053 • Phone: 815-244-3001• Fax: 815-244-3067 • eMail: carrollcfb@gmail.com SM-ST1865475