Putnam County Record_02042026

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Tips to avoid winter home fires

Space heaters, fireplaces, frozen pipes: Do’s and don’ts for fire safety in cold months

By KELSEY RETTKE krettke@shawmedia.com

It might be freezing outside, but that doesn’t mean your home can’t catch fire if you’re not careful this winter.

In fact, fires trend up in the winter months because of it, experts say. That’s because homes are using more equipment – electric and gas – to keep warm. December, January and February are the peak months for fires caused by heated elements. Equipment like space heaters, fireplaces and more also are the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries, and the third-leading cause of home fire deaths, according to the National Fire Prevention Association.

Here are some tips from the NFPA, DeKalb Fire Chief Lukie Howieson and other experts to ensure your home is safe and fireproof in the cold months:

Beware supplemental heat sources

Not so much that you use them, but where you plug them in.

Space heaters should be plugged directly into a wall outlet, not an extension cord or power strip. And keep them away from flammable materials like curtains and beds – things that will catch more quickly if overheated.

It might be tempting, but using your oven to heat your home is also ill-advised.

What’s the safest way to keep my pipes from freezing? (Or if I have to thaw them out?)

Another common cause of winter fires is improperly thawing frozen pipes.

It’s easier to prevent them than thaw

LOCAL NEWS BRIEF

Putnam Library to screen ‘Mr. Civil Rights’ on Feb. 12

The Putnam County Public Library District’s Condit Branch will screen “Mr. Civil Rights: Thurgood Marshall and the NAACP” at 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12. This documentary highlights the extraordinary life and legacy of Thurgood Marshall. As a pioneering civil rights attorney, Marshall achieved a historic victory in Brown v. Board of

them, Howieson said. If you’re worried your pipes will freeze, turn every sink on to a small trickle and leave the sink cabinets open, especially if the sink is attached to an exterior wall. That keeps water flowing continuously.

But what if your pipes do freeze?

“You can use a hairdryer,” Howieson said. If you’re careful, you can set a space heater next to a frozen pipe as long as nothing flammable is around.

Can I use my generator inside if the power goes out?

Short answer? No. Long answer: Also no, because portable generators produce a large amount of carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, toxic gas that can quickly turn fatal, according to the NFPA. Other common risks from generators are electrical shock or electrocution and fire.

Generators should be plugged in outside and away from your home, including windows and doors.

Electrical fires are the leading cause of home fires in the U.S., according to the

NFPA. Plug only one heat-producing tool (like a space heater) into a wall outlet at a time.

You should always ensure your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors in your home are working. The NFPA recommends checking carbon monoxide detectors once a month.

Tips for fireplaces and candles

Anytime there’s a live flame, extra vigilance is warranted.

Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned before you start up the fireplace for the season. Store cooled ashes in a tightly covered metal container. Keep that container outside at all times, at least 10 feet away from your home.

Even things like candles should be monitored closely, according to the NFPA.

Anything flammable, including linens, bedding, blankets, furniture, should be at least 3 feet away from any heat source like fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators or space heaters.

For more tips, visit nfpa.org.

Education (1954), ending legal segregation in public schools and reshaping the course of American history.

For two decades – through the Great Depression and World War II – Marshall traveled throughout the Jim Crow South, courageously challenging segregation case by case. Despite threats, violence and countless barriers, he secured more Supreme Court victories than any lawyer in U.S. history. His

groundbreaking work laid the foundation for the Civil Rights Movement and helped pave the way for future leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. Mr. Civil Rights is a 57-minute documentary, not rated, and made available through Kanopy. This program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 815-339-2038 or visit the library at 105 N. Center St., Putnam. –TomCollins

Princeton residents hear about possible business development district

support projects inside the district, such as downtown improvements, building upgrades, infrastructure and new business development.

By BILL FRESKOS bfreskos@shawmedia.com

More than 60 Princeton residents and business owners attended a community meeting Jan. 27 to learn more about a business development district being considered by the city.

The city meeting included a presentation from Hometown Consulting, a firm the city hired to help with economic development.

Cole McDaniel, president of the firm, explained to everyone what a BDD does, how it could impact the city and answered questions from residents.

A BDD serves a similar role to a tax increment financing district by providing funding for business and redevelopment projects, although it relies on sales tax revenue instead of property taxes.

If created, the district would be paid for through an additional sales tax on certain retail purchases made within the district.

Notably, the tax would only apply to items meant for “immediate consumption,” such as meals at a restaurant, snacks or drinks, but would not apply to groceries, prescription drugs or titled items such as vehicles.

The city would use the money to

City officials estimate a 1% tax could generate about $800K annually, although the amount would depend on the final boundaries of the district.

McDaniel, along with city officials, treated the meeting as a way to not only explain to residents what a BDD is, but also to gather data and receive public feedback so that if the city goes through with it, they’ll have a better understanding of what residents and business owners want and need.

“All too often, I’ve been in communities to do these presentations where six people show up and the council moves forward soon after,” McDaniel said. “That’s not what’s happening here, and it’s important for how priorities are set if this happens.”

McDaniel also included examples from other Illinois communities where BDDs helped revitalize downtowns.

He shared how the district in smaller towns supported projects such as building renovations, new businesses and infrastructure improvements, which increase foot traffic and sales tax revenue over time.

Attendees were able to ask questions and participate in a live survey at the end of the presentation. Residents had the opportunity to anonymously give feedback about their thoughts and concerns.

In the live survey, 19 participants

said they or their organization would consider applying for BDD funding, 9 said no, and 20 said maybe.

Mayor Raymond Mabry said he thought the meeting was productive and would help guide the city going forward if they made any moves.

“It was very encouraging to see people show up,” Princeton Mayor Ray Mabry said. “The live survey was a neat tool to see some results in real time and how people are feeling. Every day, we’re trying to make Princeton a

community we’d want to live in and share with visitors. But it starts with quality of life for our residents first and this could be a great thing for our city.”

Deadlines for establishing the district are Apr. 1 or Oct. 1, and it looks like the city is shooting for the April deadline.

Mabry said more discussions, including public input, will continue at future City Council meetings before any official decisions are made.

Former Monterey Mushrooms plant sees partial sale

By BILL FRESKOS bfreskos@shawmedia.com

Portions of the former Monterey Mushrooms property in Princeton have been sold, although the main processing plant remains unsold, according to the real estate agent involved in the transaction.

According to Bureau County documents, Sundog Roamer LLC is listed as the buyer of the property. However, David Sickley, the listing agent, said the 250,000-square-foot mushroom processing facility and the immediate 50 acres surrounding it have not been sold.

Sickley said the sale involved about 150 acres of excess land, while the main building and nearby property have

been off the market for several months.

It is not yet clear what Sundog Roamer LLC plans to do with the land, and the company was not available for comment as of Jan. 29.

Property-transfer records show Monterey Mushrooms sold land connected to the former Princeton plant to Sundog Roamer LLC in December for $974,100.

The plant closed over two years ago due to financial reasons, including the fallout of the pandemic in 2020.

Monterey Mushrooms had been in operation for almost 47 years in the Princeton area and at one time employed between 525 and 550 individuals in the 250,000 square foot facility located on U.S. 6.

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

Rural Granville grain bin fatality identified

69-year-old from Magnolia died Jan. 26; brother rescued and released from hospital

By MARIBETH M. WILSON mwilson@shawmedia.com

The Putnam County Coroner’s Office has identified the person who died in a grain bin incident Jan. 26, in rural Granville as Gary Bruch, 69, of Magnolia, Coroner Bob Cofoid said in a news release.

Bruch and others were unloading beans from the bin on the family farm when he entered the bin for an unknown reason and became trapped, Cofoid said. Bruch’s brother entered the bin to look for him and also became trapped. A third person attempted a rescue until fire rescue arrived, Cofoid said. The technical rescue team extracted Bruch’s brother, who was flown to OSF Saint Francis Hospital in Peoria and later released.

were dispatched to assist with the rescue operation. Residents were advised to avoid the area during emergency response efforts.

Rescue personnel recovered Bruch, who was pronounced deceased at the

scene. His remains were transported to Bloomington for forensic examination performed on Jan. 27, Cofoid said.

The cause of death is pending laboratory toxicology and investigation reports, Cofoid said.

Calling All Caring Hearts –

Volunteer at Our Senior Center!

We’re looking for compassionate, friendly, and dedicated individuals to join our volunteer team and make a difference in the lives of our seniors. Whether it’s sharing a conversation, leading an activity, helping with meals, or simply offering a smile, your time and kindness can brighten someone’s day.

Opportunities include:

• Assisting with arts, crafts, and games • Helping serve meals and snacks

• Providing companionship and conversation

Why Volunteer?

• Supporting special events or outings

You’ll bring joy to others, build meaningful connections, and be part of a community that values kindness and respect.

Flexibility at its best, Tuesday’s and Thursday’s

Location: Putnam County Community Center, 128 First St. Standard, IL. Contact: 815-339-2711 or director@pcaservices.org, ask for Becky.

Come share your time, talents, and heart – our seniors can’t wait to meet you!

Do you want to get more involved?

Join the Putnam County Community Center’s Board. For more information, please contact any board member or the Executive Director. Contact: 815-339-2711 or director@pcaservices.org, ask for Becky.

1(815)339-2711 or 1(800) 757-4579

WWW.PCASERVICES.ORG

Treasurer reminds Illinois residents to check for missing money to claim

By JUDY HARVEY jharvey@shawmedia.com

Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs is encouraging people to visit the ICash missing money website this weekend to see if they have money or unclaimed property waiting for them.

Feb. 1 is National Unclaimed Property Day, and residents can check the ICash website to see if they or any loved ones have missing money to claim, according to the treasurer’s office.

The ICash site is available anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the office said in a news release.

An estimated one-in-four adults who check ICash discover they have missing money or other unclaimed property, the treasurer’s office said.

“It’s a good idea to check the names of family members and friends, as well as your own name, because you might find some unexpected treasures. If you find something for your relatives or neighbors, you can use our website’s Family and Friends ‘share’ feature to let them know,” Frerich said in the release.

“We work hard to return missing

money and unclaimed property to the rightful owners. The proof is in our record-breaking numbers over the years,” he said. “Putting money back in your warm hands is better than keeping it in our cold bank vaults.”

Since 2015, more than $2.4 billion in unclaimed property – the largest amount in state history – has been returned to people, according to the release.

The average claim in 2025 was $539, according to the treasurer’s office.

Unclaimed property includes forgotten or overlooked bank accounts, uncashed rebate checks, unpaid life insurance claims and the contents of abandoned safe deposit boxes.

When companies and banks cannot return these items to the rightful owners, by law, they are turned over to the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office. The treasurer is legally required to return unclaimed property to its owners or their heirs, no matter how long it takes, according to the release.

Frerichs worked with state lawmakers to streamline the process, returning money without filing a claim through the Enhanced Money Match program, and adding a Spanish-language website.

GARY L. BRUCH

Born: March 22, 1956 in Spring Valley, Illinois

Died: January 26, 2026 in Granville, Illinois

Gary L. Bruch, died on January 26, 2026, in a tragic farming accident.

Gary was born on March 22, 1956, to Roy and Eleanor Bruch.

Gary married Cyndy Faletti on August 10, 1974. In 1977, Gary joined his father and three brothers as a partner in Bruch Farms and spent the rest of his life doing what he loved---farming.

Gary and Cyndy have two children and four grandsons. Katie Bruch Main, married to Erik Main has two sons, Miles and Emmett. Chris Bruch, married to Vaness Ahlers has two sons,

ELIZABETH ROBERSON

Born: February 27, 1962 in Spring Valley Died: January 28, 2026 in Magnolia

Magnolia: Elizabeth K. “Liz” Roberson, 63, of Magnolia, passed away at her home on Wednesday January 28, 2026, at 10:10 am.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial visitation will be held Saturday February 7, 2026, from 3:00 to 5:00 pm at Calvert & Johnson Memorial Home, Henry. Memorials may be directed to the family.

Liz was born February 27, 1962, in Spring Valley, IL to Mearl and Shirley (Roth) Cordes.

Mason and Harold. Gary treasured time with his family and enjoyed having them living nearby. The highlight of Gary and Cyndy’s 50th wedding anniversary was taking the family on vacation to Ireland.

Gary was a lifelong member of Granville United Church of Christ where he served as a trustee. He could always be counted to lend a hand, especially when there was heavy work to be done. He was a founding member of Granville UCC Mission team which works to rebuild after natural disasters.

Gary was a member of Granville Masonic Lodge #1093, where he served as secretary and was a past master. As a member of Putnam County FFA Alumni, he was heavily involved in the fundraising auctions. Gary served as treasurer of Magnolia Township Preservation Association.

Gary and Cyndy took many national and

She married Kenny Roberson on February 14, 1997, in Ottawa, IL. He preceded her in death on November 26, 2025.

Surviving are her children, Shaun Roberson, of Princeton, Bobette Roberson, of Ottawa, Lisa (Joe) Gallup, of Arkansas and Kenya (Chris) Machetta, of Marseilles, three grandchildren, her siblings, Beverly Kocher, of Henry, Phyllis Bianchi, of Hennepin, Val (Jim) Hofer, of Putnam, Debbie Coan, of Granville, Michelle (Rick) Struglinski, of Spring Valley, David (Dawn) Cordes, of Bloomington, and Danelle (Jim) Yahas, of McNabb.

Her parents, and two sisters, Audrey and Madalyn, preceded her in death.

Liz had worked as the assistant manager at the Henry Casey’s Store for over 18 years.

Online condolences may be made to: www. calvertmemorial.com.

international trips with Magnolia Society International and became friends with Magnolia enthusiasts around the world.

Gary loved trains (big and small), the Chicago Bears and John Wayne movies. His highlight of their trip to Ireland was the Quiet Man tour of the town and buildings used in the movie.

Most of all, Gary was a devoted and loving husband who did many things just for his wife, Cyndy. Like buying the big, drafty old house she loved, taking up antiquing, taking care of her donkeys, attending countless musicals, and turning a grain bin into a garden shed.

Gray was preceded in death by his parents. In addition to being survived by his wife, children and grandchildren, he is survived by sister, Patricia West, his brothers, and their spouses: Ron & Sue Bruch, Ken & Barbara Bruch, Henry & Ida Bruch and nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be given to Granville United Church of Christ, Magnolia Township Preservation Association, or Granville Masonic Lodge #1093.

Memorial service will be Saturday, February 7, 2025, at 1:00 pm. at the Granville United Church of Christ Sanctuary, followed by Masonic rites at 1:30 pm. A celebration of life will be held in the Granville United Church of Christ Fellowship Hall from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, The Dysart – Cofoid Funeral Chapel is honored to be assisting the Bruch family with the arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to his family at www.dcfunerals.com

How to submit: Send obituary information to putnamobits@shawlocal.com or call 815-632-2534. Notices are accepted until 5 p.m. Friday for Wednesday’s edition. Obituaries also appear online at shawlocal.com/putnam-county-record, where you may sign the guest book, send flowers or make a memorial donation.

Image provided by Tri-County Opportunities Council Tri-County Opportunities Council Community Action Agency recently announced that applications for at least 10 scholarships are now open for income-eligible students.

Tri-County Opportunities Council scholarships open

Deadline is March 13

By BILL FRESKOS bfreskos@shawmedia.com

The Tri-County Opportunities Council announced that applications are open, and it will award at least 10 scholarships to income-eligible students this year.

The scholarships are for $2,000 each and can be used at a college, university or trade school. Students may attend in-state or out-of-state institutions and may enroll in in-person or virtual programs.

Eligible applicants must be residents of Bureau, Carroll, La Salle, Lee, Marshall, Ogle, Putnam, Stark or Whiteside counties and be members of an income-eligible household.

Students enrolled full-time with at least 12 semester hours may qualify for the full $2,000 award. Part-time students also are eligible to apply, although scholarship amounts would be awarded on a prorated basis if selected.

The application deadline is March 13.

For information, call 800-323-5434, ext. 710, or visit tcochelps.org.

McNabb Library to host watercolor workshop on Feb. 11

By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com

The Putnam County Public Library District’s McNabb Branch invites the public to “Splash of Color: Watercolor Workshop,” at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11.

In this fun, hands-on art activity participants will create unique Valentine’s

Day–themed artwork using watercolors and the wax-resist technique.

No experience is necessary – just bring your creativity and enjoy experimenting with color and texture to make a heartfelt masterpiece.

This program is free and open to the public, and all supplies will be provided. For more information, call 815-339-2038. The library is located at 322 W. Main St., McNabb.

Putnam library district to hold third annual tree giveaway

Third annual giveaway part of “America250” program; registration due March 15

By KATE SANTILLAN ksantillan@shawmedia.com

The Putnam County Public Library District will partner with Neighborhood Forest to hold its

third annual tree giveaway as part of its “America250: Our Shared History” program.

The library district will offer local youth tree saplings. The saplings highlight present and future environmental stewardship and land care. Registration is required and due Sunday, March 15. To register, visit shorturl.at/lAgWs.

The tree saplings special will be announced in early April. The saplings pickup runs from Sunday, April 19, through Saturday, April 25.

TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY

1924: Jacob Tullin Thams of Norway wins ski jumping gold at the first Winter Olympics in Chamonix, France.

1969: John Madden is named head coach of NFL’s Oakland Raiders.

AREA ROUNDUP

Putnam’s Justin Doden qualifies for sectional

WRESTLING

At Princeton: Putnam County/Hall’s Justin Doden qualified for sectiomal, placing third at 285 pounds at the Princeton Regional. He beat ROWVA’s Tommy DeRidder 7-2 in the third-place match.

BOYS BASKETBALL

Putnam County 51, Lowpoint-Washburn 37: Traxton Mattingly scored 13 points as the Panthers won in a consolation game in the Tri-County Conference Tournament on Thursday, Jan. 29 in Granville.

provided

Putnam County defeated host Indian Creek 57-21 to capture the Waterman Sectional seventh grade championship on Monday night. The Pumas (24-1) will face Normal Epiphany at 2:30 p.m. Saturday in the 2A state quarterfinals at Macon Meridian High School. Team members are (front row, from left) Jace Newsome, Mylo Mertel, Liam Judd, Hans Frund, Sean King and Liam Askeland; and (back row) Mike Borri, Jacob Borri, Wyatt Rue, Marshall Holocker, Hudson Heiberger, Mason King and TJ Askeland. Cheerleaders are Reagan Doehling, Anya King, Sophia Lozano, Addilyn Podobinski, Harper Heuser, Penelope Bird, Eden Johnson, Collette Gapinski and Stella Guisti.

JUNIOR HIGH BOYS BASKETBALL

Pumas win 7th grade

sectional, advance to state

By KEVIN HIERONYMUS khieronymus@shawmedia.com

Putnam County Junior High School earned a trip back to the IESA 2A seventh grade boys state basketball tournament. The Pumas defeated host Indian Creek 57-21 to capture the Waterman Sectional on Monday, Jan. 26.

Back at state, the Pumas lost to Normal Epiphany 37-28 in the state 2A

quarterfinals at Macon Meridian High School on Saturday, bowing out at 24-2.

Marshall Holocker scored 11 points and Hans Frund and Hudson Heiberger added 7 each, Sean King had 2 and Liam Judd had 1.

Epiphany lost. to Effingham St. Anthony 46-31 in the semifinals.

A year ago, Putnam County lost to Riverdale Washington 28-17 in the 2A seventh grade quarterfinals.

Braden Bickerman added 11 points for PC (8-16).

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Midland 50, Putnam County 11: Addy Leatherman scored five points for PC in a Tri-County Conference loss in Varna on

Jan. 29

Indian Creek 43, Putnam County 34: Addy Leatherman scored 14 points as the Lady Panthers lost a nonconference game in Shabbona on Jan. 27 – Shaw Local News Network

Putnam County defeated Kewanee Wethersfield 38-33 to capture the IESA 2A 8th grade regional championship in Kewanee on Thursday, Jan. 29. Team members are (front row, from left) Calvin Fiedler, Anthony Popurella, Cayden Bush, Luke Gabrielse, Hayden Doyle, Garrett Billups and Davis Carlson; and (back row) Coach Brett Carlson, Eli Pennell, Brendan Linton, Nolan Weddell, Camden Moriarty , Geoffrey Pagani and Coach TJ Askeland.

JUNIOR HIGH BOYS BASKETBALL

Pumas win IESA 2A 8th grade regional championship

By KEVIN HIERONYMUS khieronymus@shawmedia.com

Putnam County defeated Kewanee Wethersfield 38-33 to capture the IESA 2A 8th grade regional championship on Thursday, Jan. 29 in Kewanee.

The Pumas (21-3) returned to Wethersfield to meet Serena (19-6) for the sec-

tional championship on Monday. Serena beat host Ottawa Wallace 41-36 in Ottawa.

The PC-Serena winner advances to the IESA 2A State Tournament at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7 at Kankakee Bishop McNamara High School.

Putnam County’s Hayden Doyle won the IESA Sportsmanship Award for the game.

Marquette tops No. 1 seed Woodland for TCC title

By BRIAN HOXSEY bhoxsey@shawmedia.com

The Marquette boys basketball team got off to a solid start in Friday’s championship of the 99th annual Tri-County Conference Tournament against rival Woodland in R.M. Germano Gymnasium at Putnam County High School.

The No. 2-seeded Crusaders outscored the top-seeded Warriors 22-7 in the opening eight minutes and continually added to the lead throughout a 53-29 victory in Granville.

It was the sixth championship at the event for Marquette (17-5), first since 2023, and they have now won six straight games.

Woodland (15-7), which was making its second appearance in the title game, the other in 2010, had its eight-game win streak snapped.

“When we played them back in December (a 58-43 Woodland win), they really took it to us at their place,” Marquette coach Todd Hopkins said. “They are a tough matchup defensively for us because of how well they spread the floor. We didn’t want to play zone with how good of shooters they have, so we just told our kids they were going to have to get out and guard.

“The biggest keys for us tonight were we got off to a really good start, shot the ball well early, did a good job of defending and switching, and we limited them to one shot for the most part while doing a good job of offensive rebound ourselves.”

Marquette hit 8 of 16 from the field in the first period, including Griffin Dobberstein knocking down a trio of 3-pointers, Alec Novotney netting three field goals, and Blayden Cassel contributing five points.

Woodland sank only 2 of 14 shots.

“Marquette came out really ready to go, they guarded us really well and shot the ball well,” Woodland coach Connor Kaminke said. “We knew their height and physicality wasn’t going to be a great matchup for us, but we just didn’t match the physical part nearly as well as we did back in December. They hit shots early, and we just didn’t. We had a rough first quarter defensively, but after that we held them to numbers that win you games but not when you struggle to put the ball in the hoop.

“We have been a team all season that just needs to see a shot fall or a positive

play to get us rolling, but we just never really had that moment tonight. We had so many shots roll around and out or go halfway down and pop out, but that’s how it goes some nights. It’s just unfortunate that it happened tonight.”

Marquette, which led 29-12 at halftime and 42-20 after three quarters, finished hitting 23 of 58 (40%) from the floor and held a 47-32 margin on the boards, including grabbing 19 offensive rebounds. Woodland hit on 11 of 51 attempts (22%), including only 3 of 22 from beyond the arc.

“We knew we had to play a very good game defensively,” said Marquette’s Lucas Craig, who had five points, 10

rebounds, three assists and three blocks.

“Woodland has some really good players and really good shooters in [Nolan] Price and [Nate] Berry, so limiting their open looks was going to be important. When we played them before Christmas, we didn’t do a very good job defensively, and they beat us.

“On offense I think with Blayden, Luke [McCullough] and I, we are blessed to have three guys over 6-4. We all feel like we can score down low, but Luke and I feel like we can step out a little bit and score, too. I know Hop would like us to make the first shot, but we all have the mentality to just go after every rebound and hopefully keep the ball

alive for a second chance.”

Novotney led the Crusaders with 14 points and six rebounds, while Cassel posted 13 points and 11 rebounds, McCullough 12 points and six rebounds, and Dobberstein nine points.

Hopkins wins free throw contest Marquette’s Tate Hopkins won the Tri-County Conference free throw contest on Friday night. The contest has been held during the tournament since 1940. Hopkins hit a perfect 25 out of 25 free throws to win the title.

Tate’s father Todd, the Crusaders head varsity boys basketball coach and Putnam County graduate, won the event in 1987.

CLASSIFIED

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

KNOX COUNTY, ILLINOIS LAND AUCTION

164.95 TAXABLE ACRES± • 2 TRACTS

Tract 1 is situated on the north edge of Dahinda, IL with access along Knox Highway 15. Tract 2 is located approx. 1 mile north of Dahinda, IL with access along Knox Highway 15 in Sections 13 & 24, T11N - R3E, Persifer Township, Knox County, Illinois.

The Moore Acres Inc. real estate represents two tracts that have something for everyone in Knox County, IL Tract 1 features tillable, pastureland, and recreational land with outbuildings and an older farmhouse. Tract 2 is a recreational paradise with excellent deer and turkey hunting. Illinois DNR and Spoon River State Forest border the farm to the East.

MOORE ACRES INC.

Representing Attorney: Bob Potts | Whitney & Potts Ltd. 118 W Main St, Elmwood, IL 61529 | (309) 742-3611 Auction Managers: Isaac Taber (309) 335-8081 & Dan Sullivan

NOTICE TO VOTERS

ALL PERSONS MAY REGISTER TO VOTE who are citizens of the United States and will be 18 years of age on or before the March 17, 2026, GENERAL PRIMARY ELECTION, and will have lived in the State of Illinois and the precinct of residence for 30 days before the date of the General Prim ary Election

If you are regi stered but your latest Voter Identification Card does not reflect your current address, you must report the changes in writing. If your name has changed, you must re-register.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2026, IS T HE LAST DAY FOR VOTER REGISTRAT ION OR TRANSFER of registration with the County Clerk and Deputy Registrars before the GENERAL PRIMARY ELECTION.

EARLY VOTING will be conducted from FEBRUARY 5, 2026, through MARCH 16, 2026, during the hours of 9:00 A.M. through 4:00 P.M., Monday through Friday and Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 9:00 a.m.NOON at the Putnam County Clerk?s Office.

VOTE BY MAIL will be conducted from FEBRUARY 5, 2026, through MARCH 17, 2026. The last day a ballot can be mailed out to a voter is Thursday, MARCH 12, 2026. Ballots must be postmarked or returned by MARCH 17, 2026.

VOTE BY MAIL APPLICAT ION

Please go to the Putnam County Website https://putnam il.gov - click the link in the Yellow News Alert box.

GRACE PERIOD registration or change of address w ill begin on FEBRUARY 18, 2026, and end on MARCH 16, 2026, only within the County Clerk's Office Use of this privilege requires the applicant to vote on the day of registration or change of address. On Election Day, you may register, change your address, and vote at the Clerk?s office only.

**Please visit the link on the Putnamil.gov website in the Yellow News Alert box to see if you are registered, where you vote, and if you have requested a vote-by-mail ballot. ** OR

Illinois residents may check their registration online by going to www .elections.il.gov , clicking on “voters,” and then clicking “Am I Registered to Vote in Illinois”.

If you have any questions regarding your registration, please call the office before the deadline at 815-925-7129. TINA DOLDER Putnam County Clerk, Recorder & Election Authority (Published in Putnam County Record Feb. 4, 18, Mar. 4, 11, 2026) 2302387

INVITATION TO BID

Sealed Bids will be received by the Village of Hennepin, Illinois for "Parking Lot and Sidewalk Improvements at the Coleman Bridge to the Wetlands January 2026" 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 w ill 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. SKU # T11Z100C

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

HENNEPIN FOOD MART