9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday or by appointment
ABOUT US
The Putnam County Record publishes on Wednesdays at Granville, Illinois
SUBSCRIPTIONS
$20 per year in advance in Putnam County
$40 a year in advance outside of Putnam County
To subscribe, go online at putnamcountyrecord.com, call 866-979-1053 or send an email to customer-support@shawmedia.com
Subscriber Terms and Conditions may change at any time. The current version will supersede all previous versions. The most current version of subscription terms are posted on the website under Terms and Conditions.
CLASSIFIED SALES
classified@shawlocal.com
Deadline: 9 a.m. Friday HELP WANTED employment@shawlocal.com
LEGAL NOTICES
putnamlegals@shawlocal.com
OBITUARIES
putnamobits@shawlocal.com
Deadline for obituaries is 5 p.m. Friday for Wednesday’s edition
SUBMIT NEWS
The Putnam County Record encourages readers to submit news for publication in our paper. Special events, weddings, births, awards and honors, anniversaries, promotions, etc., are welcome items for the paper. Some fees may apply. Schools, businesses, organizations and groups are encouraged to send information on activities and events. Photos should be sent as an attachment. 815-875-4461 news@putnamcountyrecord.com
Market manager Jennifer Heintzelman jheintzelman@shawmedia.com
Executive editor
M. Eileen Brown ebrown@shawmedia.com
Editor Kevin Solari ksolari@shawmedia.com
All rights reserved. Copyright 2026
HOW ARE WE DOING?
We want to hear from you. Email us your thoughts at feedback@shawmedia.com.
ILLINOIS VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE GRADUATES LIST, FALL 2025 SEMESTER
A total of 174 students earned 187 degrees and certificates last fall from Illinois Valley Community College. Graduates and their degrees or certificates are listed by hometown. The students are eligible to participate in the college’s spring commencement.
Cedar Point
Jacob Kasperski, truck driver training advanced proficiency; Ariana Margis, CNA; Katelin Moon, truck driver training
Cherry
Zac Koesler, EMT; Victoria Snyder, CNA
Compton
Christina Van Sickle, associate of applied science in marketing
Dalzell
Alejandro Maldonade-Guzman, truck driver training advanced proficiency
DePue
Estefania Lopez, CNA; Julisa Perez, phlebotomy; Jessica Peterson, medical assistant
Earlville
Lidia Hernandez, CNA; Morgan Myre, associate of applied science in dental hygiene; Tai Sheehan, associate of applied science in early childhood education; Isabella Valdez, CNA
Franklin Grove
Ian Untz, truck driver training
Grand Ridge
Brian Gutierrez, associate in science; Rosa Gutierrez, CNA; Mason Jaegle, EMT
Granville
Michelle Baker, phlebotomy
Hennepin
Tyler Bienemann, associate in arts; Toby Marciniak, truck driver training; Raymond Terando, truck driver training advanced efficiency
Key West, Fla.
Maria Perez, associate in arts
La Moille
Teagan Hewit, phlebotomy; Matthew
Johnson, CNA
La Salle
Heather Benson, EMT; Grace Duttlinger, CNA; Yarely Garcia, associate in science; Kamya Green, CNA; Kristine Hafley, associate of applied science in paramedic; Jennifer Harju, CNA; Katelyn Kiska, associate in arts; Michael Peters, associate in arts; Stefanie Raffety, business management; Jela Santos, CNA; McKennah Steele, CNA; Alex Washkowiak, truck driver training; Joshua Washkowiak, associate of applied science in computer aided engineering and design; Olivia Wyzgowski, associate in science
Ladd
Alexandria Kunkel, truck driver training; Zachary Kunkel, truck driver training; Ava Lattin, CNA; Angelica Marlett, CNA; Paige Worden, associate in general studies
Lostant
Brooklyn Brester, EMT; Sydney Samek, CNA
Malden
Grace Glancy, associate in science
Mark
Molly Miller, agricultural studies, associate of applied science in agronomy, associate of applied science in agricultural business management
Kamdyn Becket, criminal justice, associate of applied science in criminal justice; Janae Burns, CNA; Itzel Cervantes, associate in arts; Bradyn Chandler, associate in general studies; Estefania Coronel, CNA; Angelica Godina, associate in srts; Ruben Gonzalez, production welding; Charles Heiting, associate in arts, associate in general studies; Jose Hernandez, CNA; Janet Varela, associate in general studies, associate in arts
Murphysboro
Efrain Lemus, associate of applied
science in criminal justice, criminal justice, criminology
Oglesby
Maxwell Brager, truck driver training; Amy Luaisa, associate in arts; Gabriel Sandoval, GTA welding; Gwendolin Tomsha, associate in arts; Brianna Vela, associate in science
Ottawa
Jenna Andersen, associate of applied science in dental hygiene; Robert Anderson, truck driver training; Sienna Banushi, CNA; Matthew Bernabei, truck driver training advanced proficiency; Emily Brandis, associate in arts; Payton Bruck, CNA; Abigail Burlingame, CNA; Sebastian Cabrera, associate of applied science in agronomy, advance cannabis production, cannabis production; Brandon Carr, truck driver training; Jacob Ewers, truck driver training advanced proficiency; Bhawna, associate in science; Kenneth Harsted, associate of applied science in computer aided engineering and design; Jany’a Hawkins, CNA; Matthew Hutchisson, associate in science; William Jones, truck driver training; Michelle Lenac, CNA; Lauren Moreno, associate in science; Keely Nelson, CNA; Emma Pawelczyk, CNA; Diego Rockford, associate of applied science in automotive technology; Paul Rogalla, EMT; Jordan Schiltz, EMT; Emmalea Snyder, CNA; Madeline Stiegler, associate of applied science in dental hygiene; Charles Whitney, truck driver training advanced proficiency; Matthew Wiggins, associate of applied science in computer networking administration, computer networking; Cassie Williams, associate of applied science in dental hygiene; Shaun Wilson, truck driver training
Paw Paw
Brian Linsner, truck driver training
Peru
Hayden Arkins, associate in science; Christopher Beyer, industrial maintenance I; Jessica Enright, CNA; Laila Esguerra, CNA; Hunter Foster, EMT; Zachary Frank, truck driver training advanced proficiency; Erik Garcia, associate in arts; Caden Lamps, truck driver training advanced
Bright news for Putnam County
By SCOTT ANDERSON sanderson@shawmedia.com
Crews are close to completing a new solar farm located in the 9900 block of Illinois Route 71 in Granville. The Corn Belt Granville substation will provide energy to 650 members.
The 1.5 megawatt farm sits on 9 acres with a total of 2,678 panels. The substation has only a single transmission feed with no redun-
dancy. The solar farm and battery energy storage system will provide backup power to the substation during transmission outages. The solar farm will use a single-axis tracking system, allowing the solar panels to track the sun from east to west. This provides 5% to 6% more energy than a fixed array while utilizing a smaller footprint.
Photos by Scott Anderson
Aerial views of the solar farm located in the 9900 block of Illinois Route 71 on Jan. 9 in Granville. The solar farm project construction is close to completion. When finished, The Corn Belt Granville substation will provide energy to 650 members.
Putnam County Toys in the Pantry celebrates 30 years of giving
Volunteers hosted lunch with Santa in Granville United Church
By MATHIAS WOERNER mwoerner@shawmedia.com
To mark 30 years of Putnam County’s Toys in the Pantry event, volunteers with the Putnam County food pantry hosted lunch with Santa in the Granville United Church of Christ Fellowship Hall on Dec 6.
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Chief Senachwine Chapter explores Revolutionary War
The Chief Senachwine Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is helping members research ancestors who participated in the American Revolution. The organization’s members are descended from those who fought in pivotal early battles, including Lexington, Concord, Bunker Hill and the Siege of Boston, according to the chapter. Early American campaigns also included the Invasion of Quebec, the capture of Fort Ticonderoga and battles at Valcour
• IVCC FALL GRADUATES
Continued from page 2
proficiency; Katlynn Monaghan, associate in science; Rebecca Peura, associate of applied science in dental hygiene; Antonio Phlippeau, CNA; Isis Roberson, CNA; Ashley Rossman, associate in arts, associate in science; Grace Scolari, phlebotomy
Princeton
Toys in the Pantry volunteers have held fundraisers, solicited donations and gifts, and then shopped for, purchased, wrapped and tagged gifts for hundreds of children within the borders of Putnam County.
All county children through fifth grade were invited to attend. Children were welcomed by Santa.
After sharing their Christmas wishes and having a photo taken with Santa, the children enjoyed face painting, the balloon lady, arts and crafts and photo booth fun.
A tasty lunch was donated and two Christmas trains were awarded as door prizes.
Island, Monmouth, Saratoga, Rhode Island and Stony Brook. The Continental Army also conducted raids against the Onondaga Indians in response to attacks on American settlements.
“Ancestors of the members of the Chief Senachwine Chapter in Princeton are descended from our illustrious forefathers and helped found our country,” the chapter said.
Those interested in researching relatives who participated in the American Revolution are encouraged to contact the chapter at 815-866-4288.
Putnam County sheriff to offer local student $500 scholarship
Putnam County Sheriff Joshua Boedigheimer will award a $500 scholarship for the 2026-2027 academic year.
The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association will award over $58,000 in college scholarships to Illinois students pursuing higher education.
The scholarship can only be applied to fees, tuition and books. Students enrolled in online learning also may apply. Application requirements include: Applicants must be a permanent Illinois
resident
Students must be enrolled as a full-time student during the 2026-27 school year, excluding summer sessions
Scholarship applications are available at the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, 120 N. Fourth St., Hennepin, or online at ilsheriff. org/youth-2. All completed applications must be returned by March 13 to the sheriff’s office.
For more information, call 815-925-7015 or visit a college financial aid office or high school advising center.
– Shaw Local News Network
Putnam
Thomas Downey, truck driver training
Rutland
Danielle Densing, associate of applied science in nursing
Seneca
Timothy Hawley, associate of applied science in engineering technology
Sheffield
Stacey Headley, phlebotomy
Sheridan
Carson Etheridge, associate in arts; Jayden Fulkerson, truck driver training; Ethan Janssen, GTA welding; Brady Kinzer, EMT; Michael McClain, truck driving training advanced proficiency; Tomas Morales, truck driver training; Kaylee Otley, infant/toddler Gateways Credential 3, ECE Gateways Credential 2, infant/toddler Gateways Credential 2, ECE Gateways Credential 3, associate of applied science in early childhood education; Rachael Woolley, associate in science
Lauren Ernat, CNA; Sam Sweeten, associate in science
advanced cannabis production; Carys Finklea, associate in arts; Addie Lopez, phlebotomy; Uriah Pearson, CNA; Sasha Piotrowski, CNA; Logan Potthoff, advanced SMA welding, basic SMA welding, intermediate SMA welding; Isabella Templeton, CNA; Dani Zeglis, CNA
Standard
Jason Sartin, truck driver training
Streator
Tessa Armstrong, CNA; Ronald Bapp, truck driver training advanced proficiency; Kaitlyn Carvish, CNA; Oriona Deshane, CNA; Anthony Dominic, associate in arts; Claire Durdan, associate in science; Timothy Huey, EMT; Ana Jones, CNA; Kami Kelsey, CNA; Kaylee Martin, associate of applied science in dental hygiene; Eugenio Mascote, associate of applied science in engineering technology; Ariana Mcintyre, CNA; Addison Mumm, CNA; Sidney Osland, CNA; Mauricio Pena, criminal justice, associate of applied science in
criminal justice; Michael Rodriguez, truck driver training advanced proficiency; Nashyla Teamer, associate of applied science in early childhood education, ECE Gateways Credential 3; Madison Thompson, CNA; Margaret Wakeman, CNA; Timothy West, truck driver training
Tiskilwa
Jacob Roth, truck driver training; Linda Wheeler, criminal justice
Tonica
Beyonce Aldana, CNA; Gavin Jacobs, associate in arts
Utica
Eden Galvan, CNA
Walnut
Roy Goetsch, truck driver training
Wenona
Elijah Peterson, truck driver training; Paige Sons, associate of applied science in dental hygiene
Scott Anderson file photo
To mark 30 years of Putnam County’s Toys in the Pantry event, volunteers with the Putnam County food pantry hosted lunch with Santa in the Granville United Church of Christ Fellowship Hall on Dec 6.
Visitors brave winter weather at Starved Rock State Park during Bald Eagle Weekend
By KYLE RUSSELL Shaw Local News Network correspondent
Visitors to Starved Rock State Park brave harsh winter weather during Bald Eagle Weekend on Saturday, Jan. 24.
Power outages affecting areas along the Illinois waterway forced organizers to relocate programs and shows to the La Salle room at Starved Rock Lodge. The Illinois Waterway Visitor’s Center closed due to a lack of power, with its activities moved indoors.
Photos by Kyle Russell
GLENN WILLIAM MILLER
Born: September 1, 1930 in Magnolia, Illinois
Died: January 15, 2026 in Peru, Illinois
Glenn William Miller, 95 of Spring Valley passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Peru.
Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026 at Dysart – Cofoid Funeral Chapel 208 S. McCoy St. Granville. Services will be at 1:00 p.m. following the
visitation at the funeral home. Deacon Jack Kusek will officiate. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Granville with military honors conducted.
Glenn was born on September 1, 1930 in Magnolia, IL to William Arthur and Suzanne (Smithberger) Miller. He married Darlene Stillwell in January 1955, they were later divorced. His second marriage was to Maria “Renie” Keen on August 3, 1964. She preceded him in death on January 4, 2020.
After he graduated from high school he enlisted in the United States Army, served in the Korean War, and attained the rank of Sergeant, receiving 3 Bronze Stars, and well as other medals and accommodations. Glenn was a farmer and worked the family farm. He was also an auto mechanic and machinist. He
The Putnam County Public Library District’s Condit Branch will screen “Chocolate Road” at 4 p.m. Thursday as part of its Docs & Dialogue series. The 93-minute documentary follows
three internationally recognized chocolatiers – Maribel Lieberman, Susumu Koyama and Mikkel Friis-Holm – as they trace chocolate from cacao farms to finished confections, according to the library.
The film examines the social, cultural
worked at Oach’s & Arnold Ford dealership in Spring Valley, IL. He also worked at Sunstrand Hydro Transmission Co. in LaSalle for many years before retiring.
Glenn was a member of American Legion in Spring Valley. He enjoyed restoring small engines, working on cars, fishing, hunting, and trapping.
Survivors include three sons, Bob (Lisa) Miller of Peru, Fred (Christine) Miller of Madison, Ted Miller of Mark; two daughters, Jana (Larry) Morales of TN. and Beth (Steve) Brewbaker of McHenry; eight grandchildren, Carla Lund, Dana Brewbaker, Leah Urbanski, Steve Miller, Marc Miller, Ben Miller, Jack Miller and Amelie Morales; six great-grandchildren, Yarrow and Banyan Miller, Jaxton and Dallan Lund, Emma and Kate Urbanski.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Maria and sister, Shirley Kusek. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.
Pallbearers will be Ben Miller, Jack Miller, Alex Urbanski, Andrew Lund, Larry Morales, Steve Brewbaker and Dana Brewbaker.
Online condolences may be made to his family at www.dcfunerals,com.
and economic impact of cacao cultivation on communities worldwide and highlights the importance of understanding a food’s origin.
Fair-trade chocolate samples and refreshments will be available for attendees during the program.
The screening is free and open to the public. The film is not rated and is presented through Kanopy. The Condit Branch is located at 105 N. Center St., Putnam. For more information, call 815-339-2038.
– Shaw Local News Network
News from Putnam County CUSD #535
Facilities Planning
The Board of Education continues to make progress in addressing facility needs at Putnam County Elementary School (PCES) in Hennepin and Putnam County Junior High (PCJH) in McNabb.
A comprehensive facilities assessment was conducted during the summer of 2025 and shared with the community in September. The assessment helped identify priority improvement projects, which are now in the planning phase with the District’s architectural firm, Larson & Darby Group. Current projects include the construction of new secure entrances at PCJH and Putnam County High School (PCHS), a new exterior wall for the PCHS media center, the installation of a new HVAC unit to serve the north hallway classrooms at PCHS, and replacement of the wastewater treatment plant with a septic system at PCJH.
The next phase of the process focuses on developing long-range, large-scale plans to address the needs of PCES and PCJH. In addition to the facilities assessment, faculty, staff, and administrators from both schools met with the architect to share their perspectives on building improvements that would enhance teaching and learning. Select students also participated in these discussions to provide additional insight. Using this feedback, the architect is currently developing multiple conceptual designs for each school that address both infrastructure needs and instructional considerations.
The Board of Education anticipates hosting a community information session in Spring to share these conceptual plans and gather feedback prior to implementation.
Superintendent Vacancy Search
The Board of Education has partnered with the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) to conduct the search for the next Superintendent of PC #535. The application opened on January 14th, 2026, and will close on February 15th, 2026.
Candidate interviews are scheduled to take place throughout March, and the Board anticipates the announcement of the new Superintendent in April 2026. Additional information regarding the vacancy and search process is available on the IASB website.
If you have any questions regarding these topics or other matters, please contact the District Office at (815)882-2800 ext. 5.
Sincerely,
PC #535 Board of Education & Dr. Clayton J. Theisinger, Superintendent
Two charged in Bureau County after seizure of guns, cocaine, cash
By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com
Two men await detention hearings after traffic stop in Peru yielded more than 2 ounces of cocaine and a pair of search warrants yielded guns and another 4-plus pounds of cocaine.
Police halted Naichiem Saepharn at 3:45 p.m. Jan. 21, at Peoria and 15th streets in Peru. There, agents with the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Narcotics Team, assisted by La Salle County investigators and a K-9 unit, searched the vehicle and found 68.3 grams of purported cocaine.
Saepharn was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, a Class X felony. Sentencing ranges are weight-based, and his potential prison time has yet to be disclosed in open court.
After the arrest, TRIDENT said in a Thursday news release, two search warrants were executed in DePue in the 1300 block of St. Paul Street and the 100 block of Mason Street.
A search of the St. Paul Street residence resulted in the seizure of
2,046 grams of purported cocaine, about 250 grams of cannabis, three firearms and a “substantial amount” of U.S. currency.
The recovery of these items resulted in Saepharn being charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver (more than 900 grams) and possession of a weapon by a felon, TRIDENT said. Formal charges for the cocaine possession will come at a later date, pending laboratory results. Saepharn is being held in the Bureau County Jail, awaiting a detention hearing.
A search warrant of the Mason Street property yielded about 99 grams (3.5 ounces) of purported cocaine, and two firearms were recovered.
As a result of the search and seizure, Heber Moreno faces a preliminary charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver and possession of a weapon without a valid firearm owner’s identification card.
Formal charges for the cocaine possession also will come at a later date, pending laboratory results, police said. Moreno was taken to the Bureau County Jail.
ADAM AND IDA DECK COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP
HENNEPIN VOCATIONAL GRANT KENNEY GRANT
The Village of Hennepin would like to remind Putnam County graduating Seniors that the deadline is fast approaching to apply for the Adam and Ida Deck College Scholarship. The scholarships will be subsidized through proceeds realized from the Adam and Ida Deck Scholarship Fund. First-place recipient will receive four consecutive yearly payments of $2000, and the Second-place recipient will receive $1500 per year. These scholarships are awarded on the basis of scholastic ability.
The Hennepin Vocational Grant provides for a grant of $2000 for first place, $1500 for second place and $1000 for third place. This Grant is also subsidized through the Adam and Ida Deck Scholarship Fund. These grants are for one year only.
Applicants for the above awards must live in Hennepin Township. Deadline for application submission is February 15th.
In addition, Kenney grants are also available with a one-time award of $500. This Grant is subsidized through proceeds realized from the Harold and Julia Kenney Education Fund. No limit of recipients. Applications must be received no later than 90 days after the student begins their first year of study beyond High School. For the Kenney grant, applicants must reside in the Village of Hennepin. For guidelines and applications, visit our website at www.villageofhennepin.com.
HENNEPIN VILLAGE BOARD
Photo provided by TRIDENT
Two men await detention hearings after a Wednesday traffic stop in Peru yielded more than 2 ounces of cocaine – and after a pair of search warrants yielded guns and another 4-plus pounds of cocaine.
5 - 10:30 am - Site Council Meeting 12:30 pm – Cupid Reimagined Michelle Gibbons (Virtual & In Person)
9 - 9:00 am – 10:00 am – Medicare Part B Prevention & Wellness Benefits, Extra Help/LIS, MSP Program & BA Enrollment
10 - 9:30 am – 11:30 am Free Blood Pressure & Glucose 12:30 pm – Snowman Craft
12 - 10:00 am – 11:30 am – Outreach Hennepin Library 12:30 pm – Valentine’s Day Party
13 - 9:30 am – PCCC Board Meeting
16 - CLOSED President’s Day
17 - 12:30 pm – Bunco
19 - 12:30 pm – Local Poetry – William Irwin (Virtual & In Person)
24 - 12:30 pm – Social Hour
26 - 12:30 pm – Music Therapy with Michelle (Virtual & In-person)
ACTIVITES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE CALL THE PCCC FOR VIRTUAL LINKS
THANK YOU, DONORS!
Rt. 71 Auto Body Linda Bean Michelle Owens
George Robinson Janice Bruno First State Bank
Terry & Barbara Judd Helen Aimone
Eugene & Pat Pattelli Peggy & Ronald Bluemer
Candace & Richard Haar McNabb United Methodist Church
James & Cathy Phillips On Behalf of John & Debbie Redshaw Rotary Club of Putnam County – Italian Night Roasters
In Memory of
Beverley Lapuh – Donna Zuniga, Betty Fay-Delicath, Jack & Barbara Schmitz
Dorothy Grivetti – Shauna & Dan Greenwood, Alba Ellena, Jack Springer Family, Jack & Barb Schmitz, Willie & Jan Holmes, Donna Giudici, Shannon & Angie Fay, Kent & Beth Kunkel, Sue Fiorentini, Millie Arellano, Dorothy Passini, Helen Aimone, Larry & Debbie Brown, Don & Rosa Naumann, Debra Buffington & John Grivetti, Scott & Adriane Shore, Dennis Vulcani, Bill & Brenda Bickerman, Debra Holmes, Steve & Karen Mecagni, Mimi Cofoid, Jim & Gayle Reno, Rich & Marcie Koehler, Bill & Norma Hrovat, Larry Lapuh, Gloria Skerston, Jack & Charlene Springer, Gina & Kevin Toovey, Lee & Sherry Boedigheimer, Tracy Morris, April & Michael Passini, Trent & Gan Griffith, Barb & Larry Kessler, William & Sheila Haage
Lucille Easton – Kevin Platt
Jeno & Margaret Bonucchi – Nancy Carlson
Ted Timke – Jack & Barb Schmitz
Gilbert Tonozzi – Willie & Jan Holmes
Lloyd Schrowang – Bill & Norma Hrovat, Larry & Barbara Kessler
Lois Wilmot – Bill & Norma Hrovat
Betty Clinton – Randall & Lane Keller
PUTNAM COUNTY COMMUNITY CENTER – FEBRUARY 2026
Come to PCCC to talk to Lori Angus, a member of Alternatives who has worked in Eldercare of 30 Years, she brings expertise from Minnesota where she helped develop the first Caregiver Coaching program in the nation. Lori knows firsthand what it means to be a caregiver. In 2013 her mother was diagnosed with Frontal Lobe Dementia (FTD). Because she held her mother’s POA, she faced the tough decisions that many of you are facing. She knows the sacrifice it takes to be a caregiver, having left her full-time position after twenty-six years so that a part-time job would allow her to spend every weekend in the Quad Cities. Lori grew up in the QC and returned last year. She looks forward to meeting caregivers and helping them care for their loved ones.
She is at PCCC on:
March 17, 2026 from 10:00 am - 11:30 am
June 17, 2026 from 10:00 am - 11:30am
September 15, 2026 from 10:00 am - 11:30 am November 17, 2026 from 10:00 am - 11:30 am
TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY
2017: Australian Open Women’s Tennis: Serena Williams defeats older sister Venus Williams 6–4, 6–4 for her seventh Australian title and record 23rd Grand Slam event singles victory.
JUNIOR HIGH BOYS BASKETBALL
Pumas win regional title
Putnam County seventh grade boys regional title advances to IESA 2A sectional
By KEVIN HIERONYMUS khieronymus@shawmedia.com
Putnam County Junior High defeated Wethersfield 47-32 in the championship game of its own IESA Class 2A regional on Thursday.
The Pumas (23-1), who beat Bureau Valley 39-6 in the semifinals, will play host Indian Creek on Monday for the sectional championship in Waterman. Indian Creek defeated Ottawa Wallace 39-31 at the Ottawa Wallace regional.
The sectional champion at Waterman advances to the IESA State Tournament at Macon Meridian High School to play the winner from the Bloomington Cornerstone Christian Sectional at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31.
Photos provided by Shannon Jenkins TOP: Putnam County Junior High defeated Wethersfield 47-32 in the championship game of its own IESA Class 2A regional on Thursday. The top-seeded Pumas beat Bureau Valley 39-6 in the semifinals. Next up, the Pumas will play host Indian Creek at 6 p.m. Monday for the sectional championship in Waterman. Team members are (front row, from left) are Jacob Bori, Mylo Myrtle, Sean, King, Hanz Frund and Liam Judd; and (back row) Coach Mike Bori, Jace Newsome, Wyatt Rue, Mason King, Hudson Heiberger, Marshall Holocker, Liam Askland and Coach Tj Askland. Cheerleaders are Eden Johnson, Harper Heuser, Stella Guisti, Arya King, Sophia Lozano, Colette Gapinski, Reagan Doehling, Penelope Bird, Savannah Grasser, EliMae Glynn, Izzy Bartoluzzi and Addilyn Podobinski. ABOVE: PC’s Liam Judd toes the line for the free throws in Thursday’s regional finals in McNabb. RIGHT: PC’s Marshall Holocker gets through traffic for a basket in Thursday’s regional finals in McNabb.
99th annual TCC tournament opens at PC
By BRIAN HOXSEY bhoxsey@shawmedia.com
The 99th annual Tri-County Conference boys basketball tournament wil be playing out this week at Putnam County’s RM Germano Gymnasium.
In Saturday’s play-in games, No. 8 Henry-Senachwine defeated PC 61-36 and No. 7 Midland beat No. 10 Lowpoint-Washburn 77-52.
Henry advanced to play top-seeded Woodland on Monday while the Panthers dropped into the consolation bracket against Lowpoint-Washburn at 5 p.m. on Thursday.
Putnam County’s Alan Castro shoots a free throw during game
High School in Spring Valley. PC will host the Tri-County Conference Tournament once again, running Jan. 24-30.
Hill’s career-high 24 points leads Lady Panthers to victory
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Putnam County 48, Peoria Heights 39: Kaylynn Hill scored a career-high 24 points to lead the Lady Panthers to a nonconference win in Peoria Heights on Saturday, Jan. 24.
Addy Leatherman added nine points for PC (2-21).
Marquette 63, Putnam County 24:
Addy Leatherman scored 11 points as the No. 8-seeded Panthers lost to the No. 5 Crusaders in a Tri-County Conference Tournament consolation semifinal in Dwight on Jan. 21.
The Lady Panthers fell to top-seeded
Roanoke-Benson 51-18 in their TCC opener.
BOYS BASKETBALL
Henry-Senachwine 61, Putnam County 36: Carson Rowe scored 15 points as the No. 8 Mallards beat the No. 9 Panthers in the first round of the Tri-County Conference Tournament in Henry.
Putnam County 55, Earlville 36: Jake Furar and Traxton Mattingly each scored 12 points to help the Panthers to a nonconference victory in Granville on Wednesday, Jan. 21.
Alan Castro added seven points for PC (7-15).
– Shaw Local News Network
Photo provided
Kaylynn Hill (right) scored a career-high 24 points to lead the Lady Panthers to a nonconference win in Peoria Heights on Saturday, Jan. 24.
MaKade Rios for Shaw Local News Network
in the Colmone Classic at Hall
CLASSIFIED
PROF ES SIONAL TRUC K DRIVERDry & Liqu id Bulk ( Local & Long Distance)
Holper Trucking - Ohio, IL Full Time
About the Role:
We are current ly seeking a reli able Truck Driver to join our team This role invol ves the safe and timely hauling of dry bulk and liqui d bulk materi als, both locally and over long di stances. Opport unity is availabl e to make up to $100,000+ a year. You'll be operati ng well- maintained equipment, de li vering to a vari ety
HENRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS LAND AUCTION
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2026 AT 10:00 AMCT
240 ACRES± (SUBJECT TO SURVEY) - 3 TRACTS
Strong
The Wainwright farm is located approximately 8.5 miles Northeast of Geneseo, IL. Access is through an ingress & egress easement off of E 1520th St. and is further described as being located in Section 10 & 11, T18N - R3E, Phenix Township, Henry County, Illinois.
The Wainwright farm represents a large contiguous tract of productive tillable farmland in Henry County, IL. A great opportunity to add on to an existing farm operation or investment portfolio.
KIRK R. WAINWRIGHT TRUST
Representing Attorney: Mark Churchill | Churchill & Churchill, P.C. 1610 Fifth Avenue, Moline, IL 61265 | (309) 762-3643 Auction Managers: Isaac Taber (309) 335-8081 & Dan Sullivan
All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subjec t to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to adver tise “any prefer ence, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an inte ntion, to make any such preference , limita tion or discrimination .”
Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or le gal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of child ren under 18. This newspaper will not know in gly ac cept any advertising for real estat e which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call, HUD toll-free at 800- 669-9777.
The toll-free telephone numbe r for the he aring impaired is 800-927-9275
that at the
Primary to be held on Tuesday, the 17th day of March 2026, the following proposition will be submitted to the voters of Tiskilw a Rural Fire Protection District, Putnam and Bureau Counties, Illinois:
the Tiskilw a Rural Fire Protection District
A.M. and will continue to be open until 7:00 P.M. on that day.
Dated this 6th day of January, 2026
TINA DOLDER
County Clerk, The County of Putnam, Illinois
MATT EGGERS
County Clerk, The County of Bureau, Illinois (Putnam County Record Jan. 28, 2026) 2298573
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Village of Mark has adopted Ordinance #2026- 01- 06-01 An Ordinance Granting the Right, Permission and Authority to Corn Belt Energy Corporation, an Illinois Corporation, Its Successors and Assigns, to Construct, Maintain and Operate in Portions of the Village of Mark, County of Putnam , State of Illinois, a System for Transmission, Distribution and Sale of Electric Energy for Lighting, Heating and Power Purposes Copies of the ordinance are available by calling the village office at 815- 339- 2454.
(Published in the Putnam County Record on Jan. 28, 2026) 2301144
LE GAL NO TICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Pu blic Test of the Automated Tabulating Equipment to be used at the Consolidated Election to be held on Tuesday, the 17th day of March 2026, will be conducted at the Office of the Putnam County Clerk located at 120 N. 4th Street, Hennepin, Illinois on January 29, 2026, at 9:00 A.M. This Public Test is open to the general public (10ILCS 5/24A- 9, 24B-9,24C-9)
TINA DOLDER
Putnam County Clerk & Election Authority
(Published in the Putnam County Record Jan. 28, 2026) 2301590
Sealed Bids will be received by the Village of Hennepin, Illinois for "Bridge and Bike Path Construction for Access to the Wetlands". Bids shall be submitted no later than 10:00 AM, February 11, 2026, at the office of the Village Clerk, 627 High Street, Hennepin, Illinois. Bids will be publicly opened and read at that time
Bidding Documents, including Plans and Specifications, are available from Illinois Valley Surveying and Consultants, Inc., 2584 East 350th Road, Oglesby, Illinois 61348. Office Phone Number is 815-925- 7511. Bidding Documents may also be obtained by email request to k.giordano@ivsurveying.com
The Bid shall be accompanied by a Certified Check, Bank Draft, or Bid Bond in the amount of five percent (5%) of the gross amount of the Bid and be payable to the order of the Village of Hennepin.
Bidders are also advised that all employees employed on this project shall be paid no less than the prevailing minimum salaries and wages as set forth in the Bidding Documents.
The Select ed Bidder must assure that all employees and applicants for em ployment on this project are not discriminated against because of their race, creed, color, sex, or national origin The Village of Hennepin is an equal opportunity em ployer
The Selected Bidder will be required to provide a sati sfactory Contract Bond covering 100% of the amount of the contract The form of bond will be satisfactory to the Village of Hennepin
The Village of Hennepin reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids and to waive any informalities in the bidding. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for thirty (30) days BY ORDER OF: Village of Hennepin, Illinois
(Published in the Putnam County Record Jan. 28, Feb. 4, 2026) 2301161
Hugs and Kisses Bouquet
Whether for your significant other or your sister, aunt, or grandmother, this delightful floral gift is a sweet way to say “I love you.” Sweet price, too.
The charming bouquet includes: white daisy spray chrysanthemums, pink carnations, red miniature carnations, red roses accented with fresh greenery.
# T11Z100C
Price: $64.99
Be My Love Bouquet
Add some romance with this rich arrangement of luxurious flowers in classic colors. Red roses, snow white lilies, and playful daisies are gathered in a ruby red vase they can continue to enjoy!
# T128-2C
HENNEPIN FOOD MART
MEAT SPECIALS
Our Family Micro Popcorn 3 Pack 4/$5
Our Family Canned Tomatoes and Sauce 15oz
Our Family 100% Cranberry Juice 64oz �������������� 2/$7
