Postal Customer
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE NORTHWEST ILLINOIS’ NEWS SOURCE • prairieadvocate.com
ECRWSS PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #440 STERLING, IL
Wednesday, March 23, 2022
SEASONS BEGIN
Earleen Hinton/Shaw Media
River Ridge/Scales Mound’s Maddox Knauer pitches against Oregon during March 16 action. RRSM lost the game in the seventh inning. Sports roundup on page 13. Vol. 81 • No. 43 One Section • 16 Pages
© Prairie Advocate
Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE
2 OBITUARIES
RUTH CAREY Born: February 6, 1935 in Coleta, IL Died: March 14, 2022 in Savanna, IL Ruth Carey loved her family dearly and was a great supporter of her community. She believed in being forthright, respectful and positive. Her years were filled with laughter, hard-work, good friends and a caring family. At the age of 87, Ruth died Monday, March 14, 2022 at home in the care of her loving family and hospice. Ruth was born February 6, 1935 in Coleta,
ROBERT CHARLES HELM
Illinois, the daughter of C.W. “Pat” and Bertha (Wickerts) Paschal. She grew up in a farm family, moving from Coleta to Lanark, then later to Savanna, where she graduated with the Savanna High School Class of 1953. She met John “Jack” Carey and they were married January 9, 1955. Ruth and Jack raised two children, Jo and JC, and they celebrated 48 years of marriage until Jack’s passing in 2003. Ruth and Jack owned and operated the iconic Jack’s Place Tavern in Savanna for 41 years. Jack’s place was known for their hamburgers, chili and friendly atmosphere. Ruth and Jack considered their patrons like family, always genuinely interested in their lives. After retirement, she served on the Carroll County Board, worked as a Savanna Township Super-
Beth Carey, all of Savanna; her two grandsons, John III “Tripper” Carey and Jacob and Kaylee (Plattenberger) Carey; and a brother, Earl Burmeister of Lanark. Ruth is preceded in death by both parents; her husband Jack; her sister, Vi (Kenneth) Ranker; her brother, Jack (Janet) Paschal; and in-laws, Grace Burmeister, Ed (Lorene) Massie and Garland (Mary) Irons. A funeral service will be held 4:00 pm Saturday, April 2, 2022 at the First United Methodist Church in Savanna. Visitation will be prior to the service from 2:00 to 4:00 pm Saturday, April 2 at the Church. A celebration of life will take place after the service at Manny’s in Savanna. Memorials may be given in Ruth’s memory to benefit the Savanna Volunteer Fire Department.
NEWS BRIEFS
Robert Charles Helm, 93, of Chadwick, Illinois, passed on March 14, 2022. Arrangements entrusted to Law-Jones Funeral Home, Lanark, Illinois. Additional information: 800-525-2264.
Guitarist to perform at Savanna Museum on March 26
MARJORIE JEAN ‘PENNY’ BESS Marjorie Jean “Penny” Bess, 95, of Mount Carroll, Illinois, passed on March 12, 2022. Arrangements entrusted to Law-Jones Funeral Home, Mount Carroll, Illinois. Additional information: 815-273-2264.
The Savanna Museum will host guitarist Matt Larson at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 26. The museum is at 406 Main St. Larson was introduced to the guitar and Woodstock-era rockers by his father in the 1990s. Music has been his obsession ever since. Larson has had his hand in blues, clas-
LOOK WHO IS TURNING 90!
BILL ”WILLY” MEADOR COME HELP BILL CELEBRATE!
OPEN HOUSE 2PM-5PM
MUSIC BY COUNTRY TRADITION • 4PM-8PM
SUNDAY APRIL 3, 2022 HENRY’S DOUBLE K • 834 S. JACKSON ST MT. CARROLL NO GIFTS PLEASE
SM-ST1968483
visor and Trustee and served as the treasurer of the Savanna Chamber of Commerce for many years. She believed in speaking her mind, serving with integrity, having a good debate when there were differences of opinion, and always remaining friendly. She was a big fan of Savanna and West Carroll sports and never missed watching her kids or grandkids compete. She loved being a Grandma and enjoyed traveling with her family and friends after retirement. In younger years she was a good athlete and an exceptional bowler, often bowling six nights a week and participating in many area, State and National tournaments. She was an avid Cubs fan. Ruth will be dearly missed by her two children, Jo and Brenda (Feller) Carey, and JC and
sic rock and original works. After many years in Iowa City, Larson now resides in Savanna, where he expects to find a home playing the music he grew up with – Pink Floyd, CCR, The Who and more. He also will continue writing new, original music that fits the tranquil, rural landscape of his new environment. During the March 26 performance, Larson will be accompanied by bassist and singer Claire Thoele, who is his wife, and drummer Tanner Williams. “Donations are greatly appreciated to support the Savanna Historical Society in continuing to provide quality events such
as this concert,” organizers said.
Toastmasters to meet April 5
The Inspiring Speakers Toastmaster Club will meet at 6:15 p.m. Tuesday, April 5. Toastmasters builds communication and leadership skills in a fun, friendly and supportive environment. The club meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at the Freeport Public Library in the second floor boardroom. There is an online option via Zoom. Guests are welcome. For information, contact Tom Willison at 815-275-7111 or tomwillison3@ gmail.com and visit toastmasters.org.
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 call: For editorial833-584-NEWS please dial: 815-625-3600 www.prairieadvocate.com Fax 815-625-9390 For editorial, please call: 833-584-NEWS 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 publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of errors in adver tisements beyond the amount paid for space actually occupied by that portion of the advertisement in which the error occurred - whether such error is due 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.
Sixth inmate dies at Thomson prison since March 2020 kschultz@shawmedia.com
THOMSON – A Thomson prison inmate found unresponsive and pronounced dead by emergency responders is the sixth inmate to die at the maximum security federal lockup in two years. James Everett, 35, had been at Thomson since Sept. 16, 2020, serving a 15-year sentence levied in the Western District of Missouri for threatening a federal officer, forcibly resisting a federal officer and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was found unresponsive about 8:30 p.m. Tuesday in an unspecified area of the prison. No staff or other inmates were injured, the Department of Justice said in a news release. No information on the possible cause of his death was released. Of the six inmates, at least three were killed by other inmates, a fourth died of injuries from an unspecified source, and a fifth was ruled a suicide, his family said. Two inmates have been charged in one of the deaths. A call to the U.S. Attorney’s office in Rockford and an email sent to the Thomson prison public information
officer seeking information on the status of the other inmate-related deaths has not yet been returned. The most recent previous inmate death was 13 months ago in February 2021. The Carroll County lockup has 934 inmates, about 430 fewer than in March 2020. According to the Department of Justice: • Matthew Phillips, 31, of Texas, was found unresponsive with life-threatening head injuries the morning of March 2, 2020. He was taken to a local hospital and pronounced dead three days later. He was sentenced to 7 years, 3 months for distributing heroin and money laundering and had been at Thomson since September 2019. In December, two inmates said to be white supremacists were indicted on murder and hate crime charges in the death of Phillips, who was Jewish, the Department of Justice said in a news release. Brandon C. Simonson, 37, and Kristopher S. Martin, 37, members of the Valhalla Bound Skinheads, beat Phillips to death because of his religion, according to the indictment handed down by a federal grand jury in Rockford.
The two are charged with conspiracy to commit murder, second-degree murder, and hate crime, all of which carry up to life in prison, and assault resulting in serious bodily injury, which carries 10 years. • Edsel Aaron Badoni, 37, of Blue Gap, Arizona, died about 2:30 p.m. Nov. 27, 2020, after a fight with another inmate. He was sentenced Feb. 13, 2018, to 13 years, 10 months for assault with a deadly weapon, assault resulting in serious bodily injury and discharging a firearm during a violent crime. He was sent to Thomson on Nov. 25, 2019. • A week later, on Dec. 3, 2020, Boyd Weekley, 49, of South Dakota, was found unresponsive at 2:30 p.m., also after a fight with another inmate. Lifesaving measures were performed by prison staff and emergency medical services. Weekley was taken to a local hospital and pronounced dead. Weekley was serving a life sentence for a Western District of Michigan conviction on kidnapping and transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. He had been in Thomson since Feb. 25, 2020. • Two weeks later, on Dec. 18, 2020, Patrick Bacon, 36, was found unresponsive in his cell around midnight.
Now Available THE
TASTE
Your Guide to Dining Locally
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage
PA I D
Permit No. 440 Sterling, IL 61081
Take part for a chance to win your share of
$1,400 in local restaurant gift cards!
See pages 5 & 6 for details. Photo provided by Triple P BBQ in Dixon
A PUBLICATION
SM-ST1964978
11/19/21 3:37 PM
To request your FREE copy, simply call us at (815) 632-2566 or email your requests and address to: knull@saukvalley.com SVM_The Taste_113021.indd 1
SM-ST1966411
He was pronounced dead at a local hospital. His death was ruled a suicide, his mother, Shelley Bacon, told Sauk Valley Media. Bacon was serving a 10-year sentence levied in California for assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm, aiding and abetting, and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. According to records from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, Bacon was imprisoned in Victorville Federal Prison in California when he stabbed another inmate with a metal shank, fracturing the man’s sinus cavity and causing stab wounds to his head and chest. Bacon was appealing the conviction because he had not been allowed to employ an insanity defense. He had been in custody at Thomson since Oct. 14, 2020. • On Feb 28, 2021, Shay Paniry, 41, an Israeli mobster from Studio City, California, was found in an unspecified area with life-threatening injuries. Paniry, who arrived at the prison on Oct. 14, 2020, was sentenced to 17 years, 6 months for conspiracy to launder money, possession with intent to distribute cocaine and interfering with commerce.
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
By KATHLEEN A. SCHULTZ
3
Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE
4 CARROLL COUNTY FARM BUREAU
Apply online to be an Ag entrepreneur in 2023 Looking for Ag entrepreneurs! The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, is seeking entrepreneurs to apply online for the 2023 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. Now in its ninth year, this national business competition showcases U.S. startup companies developing innovative solutions to challenges faced by America’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities. Farm Bureau is offering $165,000 in startup funds throughout the course of the competition, which will culminate in the top 10 semi-finalists competing in a live pitch competition in front of Farm Bureau members, investors and industry representatives at the AFBF Convention in January 2023 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Applications remain open through April 29. The 10 semifinalist teams will be announced Sept. 13. Each of the semifinalist teams will be awarded $10,000 and have a chance to compete to advance to the final round, where four teams will receive an additional $5,000 each. The final four teams will compete to win up to $50,000. If you have something you have
AT A GLANCE Chastity Welch invented and feel others would benefit from, give it a try. Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on April 29. Go to www.fb. org to find out more information. ••• March is National Peanut Month. While we don’t have many peanuts on hand, we do have other nuts. For the rest of March, we are offering $1 off every bag of nuts. We have pecan pieces, cashews, mixed nuts, honey roasted peanuts and a few miscellaneous bags. The Foundation recently met to award scholarships. We will be announcing winners shortly. It was a little disappointing how few applicants we had. We had quality, just not quantity. Stay tuned for the announcement of the winners. Staying in touch with our local officials is important to us. We recently hosted the Carroll County Board to
REAL ESTATE AUCTION APRIL 26, 2022 OPPOR TIME LONG- RATE TUN O 180,000 SQ. FT. PREMIUM P ZONE ITY COR DIRECTS IN OWNER ALE S INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE VESTMENT 120 E. CLARK ST.
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. To place an ad, call the Farm Bureau office at 815-244-3001 by 3 p.m. Thursday to get your ad in the following week’s paper. The Farm Bureau office compiles the ads and Shaw Media runs them in the Prairie Advocate as a courtesy in conjunction with the column. Shaw Media is not responsible for the ads and any errors or corrections need to be made to the Farm Bureau office. For Sale: Mixed seasoned firewood, 815-225-7824 For Sale: Big round bales of net wrapped clover and grass hay mix, 815-225-7824 For Sale: Hay and straw, rounds, large squares, and small squares, corn stalk bales, 815-499-0463 discuss issues in the county they are facing, issues ag is facing, and our county in general. This year, a number of board members chose not to run. Speaking of the primary election, are you registered to vote? Have you moved recently and need to update your information? Now is the time to be sure that you’re all set before the June 28 primary. ••• Are you aware of the purple paint
law in Illinois? Illinois law allows landowners or lessees the option of using purple paint markings on trees or posts on their property as a “no trespassing notice.” The Purple Paint Law is designed as an alternative that Illinois landowners can use to protect their property from trespassing. It was so great to be able to enjoy a drive to Bloomington last week with the sun shining and the sunroof open. Warmer days are coming!
Celebration of Life In Loving Memory of
FREEPORT, ILLINOIS
$2,000,000 plus in property renovations in the last several years including HVAC, office areas, parking lot and more. Food grade warehouse, sprinkled, 20,000 sq. ft. Class A office space, two incoming fiber internet connections for redundancy, backup generator. Opportunity zone.
Previously Valued Over $4,500,000 Suggested Opening Bid $1,000,000 On-site inspections Noon to 2pm April 5, 13 and 21
BROKER PARTICIPATION INVITED
FOR INFORMATION CONTACT
Rick Levin & Associates, Inc. | since 1991 312.440.2000 | www.ricklevin.com IN CONJUNCTION WITH KW COMMERCIAL SM-ST1968016
Craig "Roy" Vietmeyer 01/08/1957 - 01/13/2022 Saturday, April 2, 2022 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Luncheon Venue Majestic Pines Banquet Hall 11503 Three Mile Road | Thomson, Illinois Please gather with us to share memories and stories in remembrance of a wonderful person who is greatly missed. In honor of his love for his favorite sports teams, the Chicago Bears and Cubs, please feel free to wear your favorite sports team attire.
SAVANNA
to hire Aaron Ritenour as a public works employee. He started March 9 at a rate of $17.50 an hour. The Savanna City Council hired two The council approved a recommennew employees and approved wage dation from the personnel committee increases during its March 8 meeting. to increase the wages of Darien SanThe council approved a recommen- chez, an administrative employee, dation from the personnel committee from $15.75 to $17 an hour, effective
By MICHAEL MILLER For Shaw Media
March 13. Rebecca Ritchie was hired as a new administrative employee with a starting wage of $17 an hour. The council approved spending $200,000 from various city funds as a down payment on a combination sewer/vac truck for the Public Works
Department. The truck is estimated to cost $434,553. A request for funds from the Public Works Department for $7,166 for personal protection equipment upgrades, which are used for safety when digging trenches, was approved.
Pork Producer Family of the Year
NEWS BRIEF
Darrell and Laurie Stitzel of Shannon were recognized as the 2022 Illinois Pork Producer Family of the Year during the Illinois Pork Expo on Feb. 22 in Springfield. Pictured from left are State Rep. Tony McCombie; state Sen. Brian Stewart; Laurie and Darrell Stitzel; and State Rep. Andrew Chesney.
The Smaltz-Kness/York Township Trust will offer scholarship grants to residents of York Township who have been accepted for post-secondary enrollment at an accredited institution. All applicants must have been a resident of York Township for a minimum of one year prior to the date of application. Anyone who received the scholarship for one year is eligible to apply for a second year. Grant recipients shall be selected by the trustees upon review of all submitted applications. In 2021, the trustees presented five applicants with scholarships totaling $10,000. Scholarship applications are available from the West Carroll High School guidance office, Thomson Village Hall and the village website, www.thomsonil.com. The applications must be completed, signed and returned by 5 p.m., Monday, April 11. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Deadline for Smaltz-Kness/York Township scholarship announced
Photo provided
Now Available s g in d d e W S AU K VA L L E Y
A
PUBLICATION
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 440 Sterling, IL 61081
2022/23 EDITION
H E AT I N G A N D A I R C O N D I T I O N I N G
SM-ST1953137
Above this cover: Page 4
To request your FREE copy, simply call us at (815) 632-2566 or email your requests and address to: knull@saukvalley.com
815.625.HVAC | loescherhvac.com SM-ST1968072
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
Council approves hiring employees, wage increases
5
Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE
6
Serving Our SPRING Farmers 2022 Did you know? Projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate the need for agricultural and food scientists will grow by 9 percent between 2020 and 2030. Agricultural and food scientists can work in laboratories, offices and even in the field as they research ways to improve the efficiency and safety of agricultural establishments and products. Projected job openings in the field could be as high as 4,400 opportunities per year, making a career as an agricultural and food scientist one of the more enticing professions in the agriculture industry.
Tractor accidents, grain entrapment and injuries from ornery livestock are just some of the dangers agricultural workers face every day. In fact, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health says agriculture is one of the most hazardous industries in the United States. In 2016, the agricultural industry had a rate of 21.4 deaths per 100,000 workers, and each day agricultural workers experienced 100 non-fatal, lost-work-time injuries. Agricultural dangers are not limited to North America. In Ireland, farm accidents have increased by 13 percent in the last five years and by 31 percent in the last decade, according to a national survey of farm accidents conducted by the Teagasc National Farm Survey. Furthermore, 97 percent of all farm accident victims required medical treatment. Farms are dangerous places, and while carelessness can and does contribute to many incidents, accidents also take place during routine, seemingly safe activities. These farm safety guidelines can help lower the risk of injuries. • Know farm equipment. Read and follow all instructions in the equipment operation manuals. In addition, attend local farm safety workshops to learn more about specific equipment and products. • Conduct routine safety checks. Look around buildings and grounds for obvious hazards, such as fire hazards and hazardous materials, including farm chemicals that are not stored correctly. • Practice cleanliness. Maintain clean and neat work areas with tools stored properly and out of the way after use. • Be mindful of your clothing and hair. Many accidents involve a power takeoff system, or PTO, which is a common component of large rotary mowers, tractors and forage choppers. Clothing can easily get caught in an engaged but unguarded PTO stub. It’s easy for laces or coveralls to become wrapped around a spinning stub shaft. The PTO driveline and other protrusion points also can be dangerous if people do not pay attention.
• Use rollover protection structures. ROPS can be used on tractors and other equipment to prevent injuries. In addition, wear seat belts and employ other safety equipment as advised. • Avoid extra passengers. It can be tempting to take the kids for a spin, but do not allow additional passengers to ride on agricultural equipment. • Exercise caution when handling chemicals. Take extra precautions when handling any chemicals, including pesticides. • Wear protective gear. Wear appropriate gear and equipment as outlined by NIOSH or the Mine Safety and Health Administration. Make sure the skin, feet, ears, eyes, and hands are protected at all times. • Employ lock out/tag out control. This is a process where one can work on equipment only after every energy source has been controlled, such as hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and electrical, according to Rural Mutual Insurance Company. Turning off equipment and using certain controls or locks on devices can prevent equipment from restarting before it is safe to do so.
Farm safety should be a priority for owners, their families and employees so that agricultural injuries can be reduced.
Farmers Mutual Savanna-Thomson State Bank Prophetstown Founded by Farmers, For Farmers Speak with an Ag Lender today!!
Thank You To Our Farmers!
Meeting All of Your Farm Insurance Needs Contact one of our Qualified Agents to see how they can help
Partner With One of Our Lenders and Let Us Help You Feed The World!
Hanford Insurance Agency • Prophetstown
The Cornerstone Agency • Morrison
309-944-8670
The Cornerstone Agency • Tampico
815-772-2793
Hanford Insurance Agency • Erie
815-438-3923
309-944-8671
Sauk Valley Insurance Services • Dixon
Mark Gillis Insurance Agency • Rochelle
815-561-2800
815-288-2541 Dykstra &Law Agency • Fulton
SM-ST1967459
815-589-2200
SM-ST1967015
SAVANNA (815) 273-2261
THOMSON (815) 259-2455
MT. CARROLL (815) 244-2261
A LOCAL COMPANY, WITH LOCAL PEOPLE, MAKING LOCAL DECISIONS, OFFERING FARM AND HOME INSURANCE.
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
TIPS FOR SAFER FARMING
7
8 PRAIRIE ADVOCATE
UNDERSTANDING SMART
FARM AUTOMATION
Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
Modern agriculture looks little like the early days of farming. All aspects of farming have been modified by the access farmers now have to technologies to meet the demands of their work and the pressure a growing population places on farmers to produce quality food. Farm automation, precision farming and smart farming are strategies utilized by today’s farmers. These technologies have become important ways for farmers to optimize the production of food and improve its quality. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, agricultural production must increase by 70 percent in order to meet global food demand by 2050, by which time the population could be 9.7 billion persons. Smart farming can make raising livestock more accurate and controlled. While farm automation is a broad term, precision smart farming zeroes in on exact measurements between variations in land conditions and livestock, according to Techie Loops, a technology information website.
Examples of farming automation technology include: Autonomous vehicles and machines | Drones | Robotics | GPS guidance Micro-forecasting and weather forecasting | Soil Sampling | Yield Mapping Use of Artificial Intelligence | Geomatics | Statistical Processes, and More. Farmers can employ these technologies to save time and also manage labor shortages. Robot-assisted irrigation systems, for example, can maximize efficiency of water distribution where it is needed the most. Weeding robots can use artificial intelligence and computer vision to target field areas and reduce use of pesticides. Driverless tractors can make labor cheaper for farmers by plotting the machine’s route and letting it run the course automatically. Harvest robots also exist to grab crops gently (some with vacuum technology) and reduce reliance on field workers. Some harvesters can determine ripeness of fruit via AI technology, according to Eastern Peak, a provider of custom hardware and software solutions for businesses. Technology is changing farming in many ways. Innovations in automation can make operations more efficient and less costly.
Farm Automation, Precision Farming and Smart Farming are strategies utilized by today’s Farmers.
EXPERIENCED • RESPONSIVE • TRUSTED
Farmers National Bank Ag AgLenders Lenders Farmers National Bank Farmers National Bank Serving Northwest Illinois SinceAg 1902 Lenders Serving Northwest Illinois Since 1902 Serving Northwest Illinois Since 1902
ForFor AllAll Your AgAg Banking Needs Your Banking Needs For All Your AgandBanking • Operating for Crops Livestock Needs
SM-ST1967362
• • • •
• Operating for Crops and Livestock
Operating for Crops and Livestock Equipment and Irrigation • Equipment and Irrigation Equipment and Irrigation Buildings, Livestock and Grain Facilities
• Buildings, Livestock and Grain Facilities
Buildings, Livestock and Grain Facilities Farm LandLand • Farm Farm Land Prompt and and locallocal decisions with access • Prompt decisions with access to as much as $10 million per farm customer to as much as $10 million per farm customer • Prompt and local decisions with access to as much as $10 million per farm customer • • • •
PROPHETSTOWN
TOP 100 TOP Bank in the U.S TOP 100
Ag
100
Ag Bank in the U.S.
.
Ag Bank in the U.S.
www.FarmersNationalBank.bank www.FarmersNationalBank.bank www.FarmersNationalBank.bank
PROPHETSTOWN 114 West Third Street PROPHETSTOWN 114 West Third Street (815) 537-2348 114 West Third Street (815) 537-2348
(815) 537-2348 GENESEO GENESEO 700 US Highway 700 US Highway 6 East6 East GENESEO (309) 944-0580 (309) 944-0580 700 US Highway 6 East (309) 944-0580 MORRISON MORRISON East Lincolnway 1100 1100 EastMORRISON Lincolnway (815) 772-3700 (815) 1100 East772-3700 Lincolnway (815) 772-3700
Though its easy to look at the tech industry and think this increasingly influential sector is what makes the world go round, something closer to the very core of the Earth may be whats driving your economy. The agricultural sector plays a strategic role in a nations economic development and prosperity. From the earliest days, agriculture has been heralded as playing a crucial role in North American culture.Farmers who grow produce and raise livestock for meats and other products have long exemplified what it means to work hard and take initiatives to be self-sufficient. The symbiotic nature of agriculture and the economy is noticeable when examining the ups and downs of each. This is because food production and the potential of agriculture extends beyond the fields and local food stands. These resources impact supply chains and other markets. A strong agriculture base influences other employment sectors like food manufacturing, biotechnology, hospitality, machinery building, and much more, while a weak agriculture can adversely affect those sectors. While it can be difficult for residents of developed nations to visualize agricultures effect, one only needs to turn to impoverished and developing nations to see just how big an impact agriculture can have on an economy. Agriculture provides food and raw materials, eventually creating demand for goods produced in non-agricultural sectors. Also, food provides nutrition that can serve as the foundation of a healthy nation. Earning a living in agriculture strengthens purchasing power, which fuels other markets. Eventually, farming can pave the way for development, including roads, markets, shipping services, exporting, and many other sectors. Agriculture is an important economic building block. An especially important sector, the agricultural industry, when supported, can contribute greatly to sustained economic growth.
Make Your Farm, Home & Business Communication More Efficient, Profitable, and Enjoyable!
Intercept those important phone calls
PLANTER SERVICES
Two Way Radio
~
Don’t Take A Chance, Call Radio Ranch!
Whiteside County Airport 10924 Hoover Road, Rock Falls Since 815-622-9000 1954
Over
73 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Custom Meat Processing BEEF PORK
Processing Plant
Processing
Processing
Ground Beef Roasts T-Bone Steaks Ribeye Steaks Sirloin Steaks Round Steaks
Pork Chops Roasts Ham Bacon Ribs Sausage & Brats
(815) 684-5183 205 IL Rt 40 | Chadwick, IL 61014 SM-ST1967368
Planters & Corn Meters IMPLEMENT SIGN UP AFTER FEBRUARY 1ST Meters Only $45/Row Row Unit Only $25/Row Meters & Row Unit $69/Row * Parts not included in the above pricing NO REPAIRS WILL BE DONE WITHOUT YOUR APPROVAL Payment Options >>JDF No Payments/No Interest Until 7/1/22 -OR>>2% Cash Discount (Parts & Labor) - Cash Or Check Required For 2% >>For Repairs >$1,000 **For JDF Preferred Accounts
METER REPAIR & CALIBRATION A trained Sloan implement technician will calibrate your meters on a computerized test stand. Vacuum and electric meters are calibrated to a 99.7% accuracy or better! The 99.7% accuracy must be met by each row unit three times consecutively before the technician will move onto the next meter!
(815) 493-2191 • 26208 US-52, Lanark, IL 61046 SM-ST1967204
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
Agriculture and the economy
9
Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE
10
Explaining Precision Agriculture Few, if any, aspects of life in the 21st century have not been touched by technology. Advancements in technology have affected everything from the way students learn in the classroom to how senior citizens connect with their grandchildren. Technological advancements also have left their mark on industry, including the agricultural sector. Modern agriculture bears some similarities to farming of past eras. Technology has affected the agricultural sector for centuries, and modern farmers know that’s no different today. One of the more recent developments in the agricultural sector is the rise of precision agriculture, a farming management concept that can pay dividends for generations to come. What is precision agriculture? Precision agriculture (PA) is rooted in improving crop yields through the utilization of technology. PA is designed to help the agricultural sector maximize resources and improve yields and the quality of crops. That’s a critically important function as the world population continues to grow and the demand for food increases as a result. What are some examples of PA technology? Sensors are a prime example of PA technology that helps make farms more efficient and productive. Sensors serve various functions by helping farmers gather data on the availability of water in soil, the level of compaction in soil, leaf temperature, insect and disease infestation, and other areas. Weather modeling is another component of PA that can help farms be more cost-effective and efficient. Whereas in years past many farms would need to manually assess certain variables to determine when to harvest, weather modeling technology has enabled some farmers to generate remote readings, saving time and money. How does PA help farmers? Each situation is unique, but the principles of PA can help farmers acess a wealth of information. It might have been possible to access such information in the past, but PA has sped up the process and made it more hands-off, allowing farmers to save both time and money. PA technology can help farmers maintain accurate records of their farms; inform their decisions; make it easier to detect and identify problems, sometimes before they escalate into larger issues; and avoid potentially costly mistakes. Technology has left no industry untouched. The growth of precision agriculture is a testament to the influence that technology is having on a vital sector of the global economy.
Agriculture Loans We focus on your finances, so you can focus on your farm. • Operating • Equipment
• Livestock • Real Estate
www.commstbk.com Morrison • 815-772-4011 Fulton • 815-589-9090
Sterling • 815-625-4300
Rock Falls • 815-625-1110 Dixon • 815-284-8500
Meet Our Ag Lenders:
Dean Zuidema SM-ST1967634
Kevin Schisler
Don Beswick
Greg Nickrent
Larry VenHuizen
Brandon Belt
SERVING OUR AREA FARMERS SINCE 1968
The West Carroll FFA Code of Conduct Parliamentary Procedure Team won the Section I CDE on March 8 at River Ridge High School. Team members included Caitlyn Stingley, Noah Rannow, Harrison Morgan, Kyaria Kerkove, Dalton Duggan, Allison Duggan, Ashlyn Foster and Aubrey Wurster. Team members took a 25-question multiple choice test, gave a 13-minute demonstration and answered two oral questions following the presentation. The team advanced to the District I CDE on April 6 at Blackhawk East College.
OREGON GFWC WOMAN’S CLUB PRESENTS
Oregon, IL Antique Show OVER 30 DEALERS FROM THE MIDWEST March 26th & 27th, 2022
Photos provided
An70th nu al
Saturday 9am-5pm & Sunday 10am-4pm • Crystal & China Repair Both Days • Antique Appraisals Sunday only 10am-3pm ($5 per item) • Plenty of Parking BLACKHAWK CENTER • Door Prizes 1101 W. Jefferson St., • Concessions Oregon, IL 61061 • Handicap Accessible Entry $6
SATURDAY
MARCH 26 4PM - 8PM
Lanark Fire Department
FRY
ISH
FUNDRAISER
Reserve your ad space now!
Deadlin Thursd e for all adverti sing Call us ays @ 12 :00 No is today — (815) on 625-36
ABOVE: West Carroll FFA members Tom Falk and Taylor Schmoll competed in the District I FFA Proficiency Awards on March 9 at Geneseo High School. Falk won his area in Agricultural Sales. Schmoll placed second in Veterinary Science. To compete in a proficiency award area, each member must have completed at least one year of SAE record books, complete a proficiency application and interview in front of a panel of judges. Falk advanced to the State FFA Proficiency Awards Day, which will be Saturday, March 26, at Decatur Eisenhower High School. Pictured are from left West Carroll FFA adviser Don Mathey, Tom Falk, Taylor Schmoll and West Carroll FFA adviser Christina Polk. ABOVE LEFT: The West Carroll FFA Parliamentary Procedure Varsity Team consisting of Tori Moshure, Haley McGinnis, Max Eaton, Zion Long, Lacey Eissens and Victoria Reiland won the Section I FFA Parliamentary Procedure CDE on March 8 at River Ridge High School. Eaton was the chairman. Team members had to take a 25-question multiple choice test, make an 11 minute presentation and answer two oral questions after the presentation. The team advanced to the District I FFA Parliamentary Procedure CDE on April 6 at Blackhawk East College.
00
Lanark Fire Department 103 West Carroll Street Lanark, IL 61046 ENJOY THE FISH FRY EVENT WITH THESE DISHES Original or Beer Battered Fish Chicken Strips- French Fries Coleslaw – Baked Beans – Rolls Adults $10 Kids $5
Neighborhood Office Solutions
COPIER • PRINTER • FAX Sales and Service
Jeff Steve Email
(815) 821-5699 (815) 541-7749 neighborhoodoffice@mchsi.com m
“A Local Company providing ser vice i and d a smile” il ” 218 W. Exchange St. • Freeport, IL 61032
11 PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
West Carroll FFA members compete at events
Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE
12
Plumley appointed president of Farmers National Bank Garett Plumley has been appointed president and CEO of Farmers National Bank and secretary of Prophetstown Banking Co. following Don Vogel’s retirement Dec. 31, 2021. A native of Geneseo, Plumley joined the bank in 2005. Prophetstown Banking Co. is the holding company for Farmers National Bank, a community bank with more than $840 million in assets and locations in Prophetstown, Geneseo and Morrison. Bill Dale, Geneseo Bank president, continues as president of the holding company.
Vogel was appointed a director of the bank and the holding company in 2000, joined the bank as the CFO in 2009 and retired as president and CEO. He remains on the bank and holding company boards. Founded in 1902, Farmers National Bank is celebrating 120 years as a community bank. The bank has numerous activities planned for the year including 120 Acts of Kindness. Plumley said being a real community bank is giving back to the customers, communities and shareholders. “They, along with dedicated employees, are the reason for the bank’s suc-
Photo provided
Don Vogel (left), who recently retired as president, shakes hands with Garett Plumley, the new president and CEO of Farmers National Bank. At right is Bill Dale, Geneseo Bank President. cess over the last 120 years, and it is an while planning for the next 120 years,” honor to share the celebration with all he said in a news release.
After seven-day trial, jury convicts Thomson inmate of assaulting correctional officer attacked the unidentified officer on April 2, 2019, and was convicted Tuesday. ROCKFORD – After a seven-day Van Sach faces up to 20 years at his trial, a federal jury found a Thomson sentencing, which has yet to be schedinmate guilty of attacking and injuring uled, the release said. a correctional officer, the U.S. District According to court records, Van Attorney’s office said in a news release. Sach was convicted of being a felon in Joseph Van Sach, 49, of Chicago, possession of a firearm in 2005 and was
By KATHLEEN A. SCHULTZ kschultz@shawmedia.com
sentenced to 17 years and 6 months. It was an enhanced sentence based on his previous violent offenses, two for aggravated battery to a police officer and one for armed robbery. Defendants who have three or more prior violent felony convictions in any court are eligible for enhanced sentences of 15 years to life.
SHANNON CEMETERY CLEAN UP
PLEASE remove all winter and tattered grave decorations at the Shannon Brethren Cemetery no later that 4/18/22. After that, the cemetery will remove them and set them by the garage until May, when they will be disposed.
Van Sach was being housed in Thomson’s Special Management Unit for inmates with specially classified behavioral issues. The officer was attacked shortly after inmates began being placed in the unit at the then-new prison, prosecutors said at his arraignment in June 2019, the Rockford Register Star reported.
TOLL FREE (866) 493-2300
110 W Carroll, Lanark 815-493-2323 24490 Payne, Shannon 815-864-2390 Amy Barnes, Designated Managing Broker www.BarnesRealtyInc.com
LAKE CARROLL - $149,900 2.99 Acre Waterfront Lot Part Wooded/Part Clear with Deeded Slip
MILLEDGEVILLE - $40,000 2281 sq. ft., 4 BR, 1.5 Baths, 0.25 Acre Lot, 3 Car Garage
MT. CARROLL - $74,900 6.2 Acre Building Site, Well/Septic on Site, Hard Surface Road
MT. CARROLL - $90,000 3060 sq. ft., Downtown Commercial Storefront, Updated
SAVANNA - $89,000 4377 sq. ft., 0.12 Acre Corner Lot, 3 Stories Plus Finished LL
SAVANNA - $100,000 2675 sq. ft., 2 Units, Downtown Commercial, 0.07 Acre Lot
SAVANNA - $275,000 32 Room Motel, Operator Living Quarters, Visible Location
THOMSON - $10,800 0.68 Acre Building Lot on Pheasant Dr, Lynwood Estates
THOMSON - $12,400 0.51 Acre Treed Corner Building Lot, 4 Mile & Squire Circle
NOW ACCEPTING CONSIGNMENTS HUGE SPRING 2 DAY CONSIGNMENT AUCTION –
NOW ACCEPTING CONSIGNMENTS Consign Early for Maximum Exposure!
NOW LARGE ACCEPTING CONSIGNMENTS HUGE SPRING 2 DAY CONSIGNMENT AUCTION – APRIL 29TH EQUIPMENT AUCTION Consign Early2for Maximum Exposure! HUGE SPRING DAY CONSIGNMENT AUCTION – April 30th Golf 29TH & Turf/Lawn & Garden/Support Consign Early for Maximum Equipment/Attachments Exposure! APRIL LARGE EQUIPMENT AUCTION APRIL 29TH LARGE EQUIPMENT AUCTION
We Are 30th Looking for Quality Used Equipment: Construction – Skid Steers – Excavators – Trucks & April Golf & Turf/Lawn & Garden/Support Equipment/Attachments Trailers – Hay & Forage – Planting & Tillage – Tractors -Lawn & Garden – Recreation and More! April 30th Golf & Turf/Lawn & Garden/Support We Are Looking for Quality Used Equipment: Construction – Skid SteersEquipment/Attachments – Excavators – Trucks
We& Are Looking for Quality Used Equipment: Construction – Skid–Steers – Excavators – Trucks Online Bidding Available Visit Our Website For Complete Listing &More! Photos &Onsite Trailers& – Hay Forage – Planting & Tillage – Tractors -Lawn & Garden Recreation and & Trailers – Hay & Forage – Planting & Tillage – Tractors -Lawn & Garden – Recreation and Onsite & Online Bidding Available Visit Our Website For Complete Listing & Photos More! Onsite & Online Bidding Available Visit Our Website For Complete Listing & Photos WWW.POWERSAUCTION.COM
WWW.POWERSAUCTION.COM
WWW.POWERSAUCTION.COM Taking Consignments Monday-Friday: - 4:00 PM Taking Consignments Monday-Friday: 8:008:00 AM8:00 -AM 4:00 Taking Consignments Monday-Friday: AMPM - 4:00 PM
SM-ST1968014
POWERS SERVICE POWERSAUCTION AUCTION SERVICE POWERS AUCTION SERVICE 101 Browntown WI 53522 101EEMurray Murray ST Browntown WI 53522 101 ST E Murray ST Browntown WI 53522 Office 439-5761 Office (608) 439-5761 Office(608) (608) 439-5761 Mike (608) 214-5761 Mike Powers (608) 214-5761 MikePowers Powers (608) 214-5761
SPORTS
POLHILL’S INC.
Missiles in Milledgeville. Payton Sarber had the lone hit, and Ashton Nobis took the loss on the mound for Milledgeville, allowing six runs and seven hits in 2 1/3 innings, with four strikeouts and three walks. Aquin 6, Eastland 4: The Cougars fell to the Bulldogs in their season opener, played at Highland community College in Freeport. Hunter Miller singled, doubled and drove in a run, Max McCullough had two singles and an RBI, and Cole Huber added a run and an RBI for Eastland. Carson Heckman took the loss on the mound in relief of starter Owen Rogers. Softball Riverdale 13, West Carroll 1, 6 inn.: The Rams scored seven runs in the fourth inning and five more in the sixth to defeat the Thunder in Thomson. Maddie Eppenstein drove in the lone run for West Carroll. Breckin DeLaRosa had an RBI double and a three-run homer for the Rams. Olivia Mabeus and Taylor Kohrt both had two-run singles in the sixth inning; Mabeus finished with three hits. Orangeville 10, Eastland 0, 5 inn.: The Broncos scored seven runs in the second inning. Gracie Steidinger went 2-for-3 to lead Eastland at the plate. Jenica Stoner took the loss in the circle.
13
Photo provided
On March 3, there was a celebration for John Kreeger’s 25th year of coaching Freeport High School bowling. Several former bowlers and coaches showed up to congratulate him on this great accomplishment. During Kreeger’s 25 years of coaching he has achieved numerous victories in dual matches and tournaments, conference championships, regional championships and sectional championships, but his biggest accomplishments are his one state championship (2008), two state runner-up finishes (2018 and 2003) and his third-place state finish (2004). ABOVE: Kreeger poses with three members of the 2008 state championship team. From left are Sidney Devries, Coach John Kreeger, Jesse Castle and Kurtis Gosewisch.
Help HELP ShowSUPPORT Support to Your Local School YOUR LOCAL Sports Teams SCHOOL SPORT FUNCTIONS Advertise Here! Advertise Here! (815) 632-2560 Call 815-625-3600
JD’s
AUTOMOTIVE
PEARL CITY SEAMLESS GUTTERS INC.
5 & 6 Inch Seamless Gutters, Downspouts & Gutter Guards
Farm Equipment Lawn & Garden Equipment Appliances Machine Work
815/493-2029
Stay in the know!
428 N. Main, Milledgeville 815-225-7155
JOHN DAEHLER Owner
prairieadvocate.com
201 E. LOCUST ST. LANARK Hrs.: 8AM - 5PM Mon-Fri
Check out our website
Three Convenient Locations Savanna-Thomson State Bank
POLO (815) 946-2777 LAKE CARROLL (815) 864-2125 fsbshannon-polo.com
Choice Realty 718 W Stephenson St Freeport, Il 61032 Office 815-235-2111 Mark Curtis Broker
Cell 815-541-0057 markcurtis815@gmail.com www.choicerealtyfreeport.com
CARROLLCOUNTY LOCKER
ONE Bank...
SHANNON (815) 864-2111
Advertise Here! Call for details. 815-632-2560
451 N. Main Ave. P.O. Box 789 Milledgeville, IL 61051
(815) 225-7171 www.milledgevillebank.com
PACKING
Savanna 815-273-2261 PROCESSING Thomson 815-259-2455 RETAIL MEATS Mt. Carroll 815-244-2261 122E.CARROLLSTREET LANARK815-493-2370 www.stsb4U.com M-F 7:30-5; Closed 12-12:30pm Sat. 8-Noon or by appt.
815-499-1234
Aaron Hubbard,
NEW OWNER HOME • FARM • COMMERCIAL
(815) 493-2711
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
Baseball Milledgeville 7, Dakota 2: The Missiles opened the season with an NUIC crossover victory, taking control with a four-run first before stretching the lead to 6-1 through two innings. Kieren Harris struck out 12 and walked just two in six innings, allowing two runs (one earned) and three hits in six innings. Connor Nye struck out all three hitters in a perfect 1-2-3 seventh for Milledgeville. Ashton Nobis was 3-for-4, finishing a home run shy of the cycle with two runs and two RBIs, and Izaac Toms-Smith went 2-for-3 with three runs scored. Harris also drove in two runs, and Dimetri Garza and Cayden Akers each had an RBI. Forreston 11, Aquin 1, 6 inn.: The Cardinals used a six-run sixth to secure a run-rule win over the visiting Bulldogs. Tommy Appel went 2-for-4 with three RBIs and scored two runs, Jacob Fiorello also went 2-for-4 and scored three runs, Noah Johnson tallied two RBIs and Alex Riya had two hits for Forreston. Riya earned the win on the mound, allowing two hits, one run and three walks while striking out four over three innings. Galena 11, Milledgeville 0, 5 inn.: Ethan Hefel struck out nine and walked two in a one-hitter to lead the Pirates past the
Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE
14
15 PRAIRIE ADVOCATE Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
Prairie Advocate / prairieadvocate.com • Wednesday, Mar 23, 2022
PRAIRIE ADVOCATE
16
FREEDOM. TO BE YOU.
If you think oxygen therapy means slowing down, it’s time for a welcome breath of fresh air. Introducing the Inogen One family of portable oxygen systems. With no need for bulky tanks, each concentrator is designed to keep you active via Inogen’s Intelligent Delivery Technology.® Hours of quiet and consistent oxygen flow on a long-lasting battery charge enabling freedom of movement, whether at home or on the road. Every Inogen One meets FAA requirements for travel ensuring the freedom to be you. • No heavy oxygen tanks • Ultra quiet operation
• Lightweight and easy to use • Safe for car and air travel
• Full range of options and accessories • FDA approved and clinically validated
Call 1-855-238-0552
for a free consultation and info guide.
MKT-P0253