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.
This Lent, practice choosing your words wisely
SPIRIT MATTERS
Jerrilyn Zavada Novak
This past week, we observed Ash Wednesday, which began the sacred season of Lent.
Lent is the 40 days leading up to Easter Sunday. This time period provides the faithful an opportunity to fast, pray and intentionally give more to those in need. Rather than being a season of lack, it can be a season of refinement and renewal in our relationship with God.
The ashes we receive on our foreheads on Ash Wednesday are a symbol of our mortality, and come with a sacramental invitation: Even now, says the LORD, return to me with your whole heart, with fasting, and weeping, and mourning; Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the LORD, your God For he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love.
(Joel 2:12-13) Typically, people give something up for Lent. The something they give up is entirely up to them, but it should be something they enjoy. Examples might include social media, soda pop,
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Jacelyn Michlig named WACC
January student of the month
Jacelyn Michlig, a 12th grader at Bureau Valley High School, was named the Whiteside Area Career Center student of the month for January. Michlig was recognized for her work in the health occupations program. The WACC is committed to preparing every student for a successful future by providing employable skills, academic advancement and specialized career training that unlock their full potential.
ice cream, chocolate, television, etc.
On the other hand, some people add a spiritual practice during Lent to deepen their prayer life and their lived understanding of the gospel. Examples might include praying the daily Scriptures, participating in the Stations of the Cross, praying a daily rosary, etc.
Choosing a Lenten practice should ultimately be about acknowledging our complete dependence on God, and our desire to grow in holiness – in loving God, and loving our neighbor as ourselves, just as Jesus instructs us.
As a cradle Catholic, I have been observing Lent to one degree or another my entire life.
Early in my journey, I was often anxiously concerned about following all the rules, and not making the mistake of breaking the church-prescribed fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, lest I die in the state of mortal sin and spend eternity in hell – as had been implied to me.
It is challenging to have a spiritually-rich Lent when you are most concerned God is going to catch you doing something wrong. After all, God himself just told us in the above reading that “he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love.”
Fortunately, I now know Lent not as something to struggle through, but is a graced opportunity to turn down the noise of my world and spend quality time with God. And in that quieter space, to recognize behaviors and atti-
tudes that need improvement and ask God for the grace to do better, to be better.
Pope Leo, his fingers on the pulse of the world at the moment, recently encouraged the faithful to fast from “a very practical and unappreciated form of abstinence: that of refraining from words that offend and hurt our neighbor.”
I cannot think of a more appropriate fast this Lent for believers and non-believers alike.
“Let us begin by disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgment, refraining from slander and speaking ill of those who are not present and cannot defend themselves,”
Pope Leo wrote. “Instead, let us strive to measure our words and cultivate kindness and respect in our families, among our friends, at work, on social media, in political debates, in the media and in Christian communities.
“In this way, words of hatred will give way to words of hope and peace.”
In this time of unpredictable chaos, it is empowering to think we each can play a role in restoring peace to our troubled world.
Let there be peace on Earth, and let it begin with the words we write and speak.
• Spirit Matters is a weekly column by Jerrilyn Zavada Novak that examines experiences common to the human spirit. Contact her at jzblue33@yahoo.com.
–MathiasWoerner
Illinois Extension to offer terrarium workshop March 27 in Henry
The University of Illinois Extension will offer a hands-on terrarium workshop from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, March 27, at the Marshall-Putnam Extension Office, 509 Front St., Suite 4, Henry.
Attendees will be guided through the terrarium creation process. Participants can learn about basic terrarium design, plant selection and care principles. Materials will be provided.
The workshop costs $20. Due to limited space, registration is required. To register, visit go.illinois.edu/terrariumworkshop.
Early accommodation requests for access needs are encouraged. To make a request, email emhansen@illinois.edu.
Master Gardeners to host indoor growing program
The Illinois Master Gardeners will hold a program for community members to learn how to grow produce year-round indoors from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. March 10, at the Princeton Public Library.
Participants can learn how to grow salad greens and fresh herbs at home. Attendees will be able to learn about practical tips to create an indoor garden.
Registration is required. To register, visit go.illinois.edu/IndoorEdiblePrinceton.
Early accommodation requests for access needs are encouraged. To make a request, contact emhansen@illinois.edu or 815-2240896.
– Shaw Local News Network
Jacelyn Michlig
A CLOSER LOOK
‘We really need a more livable wage’
Postal
workers across
Illinois Valley ask for increased pay, 40-hour workweeks
By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com
Stagnant wages. Mandatory overtime. Cost-of-living increases that aren’t keeping up with inflation. Postal workers say they are tired, overworked and underpaid.
Hoping for a better deal when negotiations begin this week, about two dozen postal workers gathered Sunday outside the Peru Post Office. They wore T-shirts reading “Fight like hell!” and waved signs clamoring for support from the public.
“We’re standing in solidarity to get everybody, across the board, better wages and working conditions at the post office,” said Candis Brands, a resident of Bureau but also a steward at the Spring Valley Post Office for Branch 219 at the National Association of Letter Carriers.
Brands and other postal workers responded to an appeal by the NALC to hold “Fight Like Hell!” rallies calling before the NALC opens contract negotiations with the U.S. Postal Service on Feb. 25.
“Our wages, they just haven’t kept up with inflation in the past contract cycles,” said Devin Broderick, vice president of NALC Branch 219. “We’re out here every day, so we think we deserve it.”
“I feel like a lot of us really need a more livable wage,” said Sue O’Brien, a Peru resident and Branch 219 steward for the La Salle Post Office. “They’re starting off around $20 an hour and that’s just not a wage that you can live on anymore. So we are fighting for a higher starting wage.”
O’Brien said NALC members also are seeking better working conditions, including a 40-hour work week.
“There’s a lot of people who are forced to work overtime that don’t want to work overtime,” she said. “That’s a big issue.”
It’s an issue that’s driving turnover, as well. As Sarah LaFranzo explained it, 60-hour workweeks are causing burnout, particularly among the newer hires who quit and drive down reten-
Devin Broderick poses with his “Honk for Liveable Wage$” sign during a “Fight Like Hell” rally held by the National Association of Letter Carriers on Sunday at the United States Post Office in Peru.
tion rates.
LaFranzo is president of Branch 219, which serves a broad cross-section of local post offices, including Mendota, Amboy, Princeton and Oglesby. Most of Branch 219’s offices are small (except L-P), so Sunday’s rally was partly to bring awareness to issues affecting all postal workers, no matter the size of
their postal stations.
While wages and hours are the top issues, LaFranzo said there are ancillary issues that are chipping into the workers’ income.
“The cost of our uniforms is very high and our allowance is not very high,” she said. “We get like $400 a year, and a pair of pants is $150.”
Response from passersby appeared strong. LaFranzo and other picketers waved in appreciation each time a motorist honked or gave a thumbs-up.
LaFranzo isn’t sure the Postal Service will be as supportive when negotiations commence.
“I think it’s gonna be tough sledding.” workers
Scott Anderson
PUTNAM COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT MARCH EVENT SCHEDULE
The Putnam County Public Library District will host several programs and events in March.
County events
The library district will close for staff training at noon Friday, March 13. The district reopens at 9 a.m. Saturday, March 14.
Beyond the Page with Percival Everett: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 19 via Zoom. Writer Percival Everett will discuss devotion to critically reviewing his work and research and revision writing process. Everett recently received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the National Book Award in 2025. The event will be moderated by WTTW Chicago Tonight and Chicago Tonight: Black Voices anchor and writer Brandis Friedman. The event is part of the Illinois Libraries Presents series. To view the event, visit bit.ly/ILPPercivalEverett.
Foods and Flavors of the Mediterranean: 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, online via Zoom. Attendees can earn about the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet and how to incorporate Mediterranean-style foods into daily meals. The program will be led by University of Illinois Extension nutrition and wellness instructor Susan Glassman. The Zoom meeting ID is 258 913 2063 and password is Extension. To view the program, visit illinois.zoom.us.
Hennepin Branch, 214 N. Fourth St. Cricut Makerspace: Tuesday, March 3, through Friday, March 6. Participants will be able to learn how to create items with the library’s Cricut Maker. Appointments are required. The event is intended for adults.
The Journey Back: Mobile Virtual Reality Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center: Monday, March 9, through Saturday, March 21. Attendees can use virtual reality devices to “walk” with Holocaust survivors through their childhood hometowns and concentration camps and learn about their survival stories. The virtual reality devices also feature five films.
Murder at Starved Rock: HowMcCoy the system framed an innocent man: 1 p.m. Saturday, March 21. Participants will be able to learn about the novel “Murder at Starved Rock, which follows the 1960 Starved Rock Murders. The book also examines the murder investigation and wrongful conviction of Chester Weger. The program will be led by author Jim Ridings.
Guided VR Experiences: Thursday, March 26, through Friday, April 17. Attendees can explore virtual reality experiences with the library’s Meta and Merge VR devices.
OSF King Care-A-Van: 9 a.m. to noon Friday, March 27. The van will offer services including health care navigation, health screenings, technology assistance, and a virtual OSF OnCall provider visit. Services such as the health screenings are free. Paid services will be billed similarly to traditional office visits. Appointments are not required. For more information, visit osfoncall.org/kingcav.
Cherry Coal Mine Museum Tour: 10 a.m.
Saturday, March 28, at the Cherry Coal Mine Museum, 100 S. Main St. Cherry. Participants can tour the museum. Attendees also will be able to check the tour’s head count. To learn about the head count, contact the library.
Putnam County Book Club: 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 18. Attendees will be able select books, share book ideas, and complete the club’s book list.
Granville Branch, 214 S. McCoy St.
Docs & Dialogue: After Selma: 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 3. “After Selma” traces the history of voter suppression. Civil rights veteran Joanne Blackmon Bland, author Carol Anderson, and Emmy-winning filmmaker Loki Mulholland also examine why confronting voter suppression remains essential for democracy and equality preservation. The 46-minute documentary is part of the library’s Docs and Dialogue series.
Book Page Butterflies: 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 3. Attendees will be able to create a butterfly collage with recycled books and watercolor paints. Supplies also will be provided. The event is open to adults and children ages eight and older.
Docs & Dialogue: Her War, Her Story: 1 p.m.
Tuesday, March 10. “Her War, Her Story” explores the experiences of over two dozen women during World War II. The film also examines women’s roles during the war and the ways women demonstrated steadfastness, service, and patriotism. The one-hour documentary is rated PG and part of the library’s Docs and Dialogue series.
Crayon Chic: Wearable Art: 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 10. Participants can melt crayon shavings to create wearable charms. The program is intended for adults and children ages 10 and older.
Docs & Dialogue: News Matters: 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 17. “News Matters” explores the cause-and-effect relationship between disappearing reliable local news sources and the rise of misinformation. The film also follows America’s newspaper industry’s erosion, its democratic institutions’ implications, and the effort to save The Denver Post. The one-hour and 24-minute documentary is part of the library’s Docs and Dialogue series.
Colorful Shamrocks: Chalk Pastel Art: 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 17. Attendees will be able to design a blending technique shamrock silhouette with chalk pastels. Supplies also will be provided. The event is open to adults and children ages eight and older.
Tales with Tails – Read to Hobo: 10 a.m. Saturday, March 21. Participants can bring a book or select a book from the library’s collection to read to Hobo to build reading skills and confidence.
Docs & Dialogue: Elvis and the USS Arizona: 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 24. “Elvis and the USS Arizona” tells the story of how Elvis Presley’s benefit helped establish the USS Arizona memorial at Pearl Harbor. The 60-minute documentary is rated PG and part of the library’s Docs and Dialogue series.
Gunmakers of Illinois: A History of Craftsman-
ship and Community: 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 24. Attendees will be able to learn about gunmakers who created long rifles during the mid-to-late 1800s in the Illinois Valley. Antique firearms also will be displayed. The antique firearms are for educational purposes only. The program will be led by historian Curt Johnson.
Docs & Dialogue: Radioactive: The Women of Three Mile Island: 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 31. The documentary examines the 1979 Three Mile Island Nuclear Generating Station accident and its aftermath. “Radioactive: The Women of Three Mile Island” also tells the story of four homemakers and a journalist who challenged the plant operator to the Supreme Court. The one-hour and 17 documentary is part of the library’s Docs and Dialogue series.
Chapter 250: Reading America’s Story Together – Adults: 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 31. Participants can discuss the novel “The Notorious Benedict Arnold” by Steve Sheinkin. Attendees also can watch a preview of the PBS documentary “The American Revolution.” Book copies are available at the library’s Granville branch. The program is intended for adults ages 19 and older. Registration is required. To register, visit shorturl.at/FalKH. Story time: 10 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays, March 4, 11, 18, and 25. The story times include a craft and a story.
IHCC- Health checks: 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 11.
Stem Activities: 11 to 11:30 a.m. Fridays, March 6, 13, 20, and 27.
Register to win an Umbrella to be given away: Tuesday, March 31.
Seed Library Exchange: Wednesdays and Fridays.
Chalk the Walk: Tuesday, March 31. Rainbow Allies.
Book Discussion Group: 1 p.m. Monday, March 9 and 23. Attendees will be able to make book recommendations and share book insights, views, and opinions.
Condit Branch, 105 N. Center St., Putnam Books and Brunch: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 7. Participants can discuss books. Food will be served.
Indie Lens Pop-Up: The Inquisitor: 4 p.m. Thursday, March 5. The 60-minute film explores the life and legacy of Texas congresswoman Barbara Jordan.
Docs & Dialogue: Blue Carbon: 4 p.m. Thursday, March 12. “Blue Carbon” examines coastal ecosystems’ emerging role in addressing climate change. The documentary also explores the science behind “blue carbon,” which is mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses, to remove carbon from the atmosphere. The one-hour, 24-minute documentary is part of the library’s Docs and Dialogue series.
Bunco Club: 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 18. The club meets on a the third Wednesday of every month.
Decorative Bird House Workshop: 4 p.m.
Thursday, March 19. Attendees will be able to decorate miniature wooden birdhouses. Supplies also will be provided. The workshop is open to adults and children ages eight and older.
Chapter 250: Reading America’s Story Together – Youth: 5 p.m. Thursday, March 26. Participants can discuss the books “Forge” by Laurie Halse Anderson and “Ben’s Revolution: Benjamin Russell and the Battle of Bunker Hill” by Nathaniel Philbrick. Attendees also can watch a preview of the PBS documentary “The American Revolution.” Book copies are available at the library’s Condit branch. The program is intended for children ages eight to 14. Registration is required. To register, visit shorturl.at/u8coq.
Magnolia Branch, 112 N. Chicago St. Community members who find a shamrock in a 35-minutebook being checked out will receive a prize. The event runs through March.
National Cheese Doodle Day: Thursday, March 5. Cheese doodles will be served.
Paper Plate Saint Patrick’s Day Craft: Saturday, March 14.
Rock Painting: Thursday, March 26. McNabb Branch, 322 W. Main St. Docs & Dialogue: American Stories: A Reading Road Trip: 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 4. “American Stories: A Reading Road Trip” explores Rhode Island’s literacy legacy and historic and cultural institutions. The documentary features interviews with illustrators and writers such as Anika Aldamuy Denise, Christopher Denise, Oge Mora, David Macaulay, and Elizabeth Rush. The 35-minute documentary is part of the library’s Docs and Dialogue series.
Fingerprint Shamrock Craft: 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 11. Participants can create a fingerprint shamrock design. Supplies will be provided. The program is open to children ages five and older. Docs & Dialogue: Triangle Fire: 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 11. The documentary tells the story of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, New York City’s deadliest workplace accident. The fire killed more than 100 workers and led to major labor law and workplace safety reforms. The 54-minute documentary is rated PG and part of the library’s Docs and Dialogue series.
Chapter 250: Reading America’s Story Together - Teens: 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 25. Attendees will be able to discuss “The World Turned Upside Down” by Tim Grove. Participants also can watch a preview of the PBS documentary “The American Revolution.” Book copies are available at the library’s McNabb branch. The club is intended for teens ages 13 through 19. Registration is required. To register, visit shorturl.at/uvd2o.
Standard Branch, 128 First St. Luck, Laughter, and a Dash of Leprechaun Magic: 12:30 p.m. Thursday, March 12. Historical presenter Michelle Gibbons will portray a leprechaun and discuss St. Patrick’s Day’s true history blended with leprechaun origin tales.
Putnam County Public Library launches book club about American Revolution
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Putnam County Public Library District is launching a new teen book club focused on American history and civic engagement.
“Chapter250: Reading America’s Story Together” will meet Wednesday, Feb. 25, at 5 p.m. at the McNabb Branch. The group is open to participants ages 13 through 19, with a virtual option available via Zoom.
This month’s selection is “Chains” by Laurie Halse Anderson. The novel follows 13-year-old Isabel, who is enslaved at the outbreak of the Revolutionary War and determined to secure freedom for herself and her sister.
OBITUARIES
NANCY LOUISE STARKEY
Born: February 15, 1961 in Spring Valley, Illinois Died: February 12, 2026 in Mark, Illinois
Nancy Louise Starkey, 64, of Mark passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at her residence.
A service will be at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Dysart – Cofoid Funeral Chapel 208 S. McCoy St. Granville, IL. David Parmenter will officiate. The family is honoring her wishes to be cremated.
Nancy was born on February 15, 1961 in Spring Valley to Rollo and Nancy Parmenter. She married Jeffrey Starkey on September 17, 1993 in Tonica, IL. He preceded her in death on December 03, 2021.
Nancy graduated from Putnam County High School the class of 1979 and was also the class clown. She will be remembered for her belly
“Set at the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, the novel follows 13-yearold Isabel, who is enslaved and determined to secure freedom for herself and her sister,” the library said. “After her sister is sold away, Isabel takes extraordinary risks, secretly spying on those in power in hopes of gaining liberty for them both.”
Before the discussion, participants will watch a 26-minute preview from the 2025 PBS documentary “American Revolution,” directed by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt.
Copies of the book are available at the McNabb Branch, located at 322 W. Main Street, McNabb. For information, call 815-339-2038. To participate via Zoom, register at https://shorturl.at/uyXwx.
Elmer and
Adolph
Pletsch Charitable Trust Scholarships Available
Members of the Elmer and Adolph Pletsch Charitable Trust Scholarship Committee are announcing the availability of scholarship funds for the 2026-2027 school year. Eligibility is limited to applicants who are graduates of Putnam County High School. Both current college/university undergraduate students and current Seniors at Putnam County High School who will be pursuing an undergraduate degree in agriculture or agriculture related fields of study at a college/university that has an agriculture program or agriculture curriculum in the 2026-2027 school year are encouraged to apply. Scholarship awards are intended to be applied to the cost of tuition, textbooks, fees, and other expenses normally associated with attending undergraduate courses of study, as determined by the Committee. The Scholarship Committee reserves the right to make judgments on whether applicants have satisfied all scholarship requirements. Graduation from Putnam County High School is a requirement. Scholarship Guidelines and Application forms may be obtained from the Putnam County High School Guidance Counselor’s office or printed from the PCHS Guidance Counselor’s website which is accessible through the Putnam County School District website under PCHS - Guidance Services. Completed applications are required to be returned to the office of the Putnam County High School Guidance Counselor located at Putnam County High School, 402 E. Silverspoon Avenue Granville, Illinois no later than Monday, March 16, 2026.
Trustee: Gayle Reno
Attorneys: Gary Peterlin & Enrico Eattoni
Perona, Peterlin & Associates, LLC
laughs.
She loved her dog “Buddy”. Nancy enjoyed coloring, puzzles, mushroom hunting, bingo and scratch off tickets.
Survivors include one daughter, Angela Starkey of Mark; adopted son, Brandon Blakeney of Mark; two brothers, David Parmenter (Patti) of Grass Valley, Ca. and Don Parmenter (Sherri) of Springfield, Mo. four sisters, Velma Vowels of Peru, Il., Vera Klinger (Bob) of Mena, Ar., Carolyn Jones (Marty) of El Dorado, Mo. and Bonnie Turpen of Henry, IL.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Vaden, Carl, Craig, Dan, and her husband, Jeffrey.
In lieu of flowers contribution may be made her family.
Online condolences may be made to her family at www.dcfunerals.com
EUGENE WALTER KUNKEL
Born: November 26, 1930 in Spring Valley, Illinois
Eugene Walter Kunkel, 95, of Granville passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at OSF St. Claire Hospital, Princeton.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan; his parents; his brothers Aloysius, August, Richard, Joseph, Ken, and Chris Kunkel; and three great-grandchildren.
Eugene was a proud member of the St. Bede Academy Class of 1948. While there, he was a champion boxer and, during his four years, was defeated only once. He was honored at his 75th class reunion. He was a lifelong member of Padre Pio Parish in Granville, where he served in the Holy Name Society and the Knights of Columbus.
Eugene Walter Kunkel was born on November 26, 1930, to August and Teresa Blume Kunkel. He was one of nine children. In 1954, he married Joan O’Neil, and they shared over 67 years of marriage. Together, they created a beautiful family rooted in strong Catholic faith and values. Joan passed away in 2021. Eugene is survived by his five sons: Kevin (Becky) of Granville, IL; Brian (Julie) of Elburn, IL; Tim (Cheryl) of Princeton, IL; Patrick (Grethel) of Miami Lakes, FL; and Chad (Cheri) of Batavia, IL; along with 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Lawrence “Mick” Kunkel of Princeton, IL, and his sister, Sr. Teresa Kunkel of Clinton, IA. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and dear friends from Padre Pio Parish (formerly Sacred Heart).
Eugene often said he was blessed to spend
his life farming. Together with his brother Chris, he worked the land producing corn and soybeans, along with multiple prize-winning purebred Holsteins. Their bloodline was internationally recognized, with offspring sold throughout North and South America, Europe, and Asia. He was a lifetime member of the National Holstein Association, served on the Board of Directors for the Illinois Holstein Association, was Secretary of the Board of Directors for the Illinois Valley Electric Cooperative, and president of the Putnam Country Historical Society.
To celebrate Eugene’s life, take a walk with someone you love. Admire the fields, the sky, and the quiet beauty of God’s creation, but most of all, hold hands and smile. He believed life was a gift, family was everything, and faith carried you through all seasons. He always said Granville was God’s country; and he lived his life as a grateful steward of both the land and the people he loved.
His legacy lives on in the strength of his family, the faith he passed down, and the generations who will continue to walk the fields he cherished.
Died: February 11, 2026 in Princeton, Illinois 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 m ake a memorial donation.
Visitation will be from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Padre Pio Parish (formerly Sacred Heart) in Granville. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. following the visitation at the church. Fr. Michael Driscoll will officiate. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Granville. Dysart – Cofoid Funeral Chapel will be assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to his family at www.dcfunerals.com
3 - 12:30 pm – Game Day
5 - 9:30 am - Site Council Meeting
12:30 pm – Wind Chime Activity
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 – Bingo
Lloyd Schrowang – Don & Rosa Naumann, Donna Schad, Loretta Schrowang / Family & Friends of Lloyd Schrowang, Nancy Yauch
Betty Clinton – Ronald & Brenda Watkins, Debra Holmes, John & Susan Bellino, Linda & Larry Tonelli, John Mennie
Patricia Houghton – Alba & Charles Ellena
Marilyn Verda – Elaine & Doug Ossola
Kathy “Katie” Campbell – Ronald Campbell, Eugene Herges, George &
Margy Mattern, Jeffrey & Linda Lutes, Brenda & William Bickerman, Jon & Teresa Clausen, Cynthia Carr, Andy & Jenna Gehm
Janet Pecchio – Bill & Norma Hrovat, William & Sheila Haage
Mary Lee Piccinelli – Bill & Norma Hrovat, Carolyn Ehrhardt Mulhall
Eugene Walter Kunkel – Beverley Lapuh & Larry Lapuh
Gladys King – Shauna & Dan Greenwood
Did you know? We offer lunches at the Center! To view our menu, please go to our website at pcaservices.org We kindly ask that you call the Center by noon the day prior.
PUTNAM COUNTY COMMUNITY CENTER – MARCH 2026
Bring unforgettable charm to your St. Patrick’s Day season with historical presenter, Michelle Gibbons’ whimsical portrayal of a lively female leprechaun, complete with laughter, lore, and a dash of mischief. Her engaging program blends the true history of St. Patrick’s Day with fascinating tales of leprechaun origins, plus hilarious stories from her life as a leprechaun and the chaos that ensues when everyone tries to catch her before she disappears with the pot of gold.
Putnam County Community Center Thursday, March 12, 2026 12:30 pm
Remember to confirm Lunch at least 24 hours ahead
2026 AARP Tax Assistance
Wed, March 11 & Wed, March 18, 2026
The first appointments of the day are scheduled for 8:30a.m. The last appointments of the day are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. 30 MINUTE APPOINTMENTS; SIMPLE RETURNS ONLY
**All clients must pick up an AARP informational letter & intake form prior to appointment. The Intake form must be completed prior to arrival and submitted with your tax paperwork at the time of your appointment**
Please note:
Please do not arrive more than ten minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. If you arrive more than ten minutes ahead of your appointment, you may be asked to wait in your car.
Clients will be asked to sit in a waiting area while their taxes are being completed. AARP volunteers will request clients when necessary.
If you need to cancel or reschedule, please call the PCCC at 1(815)339-2711 or 1(800)757-4579 as soon as possible. Thank you.
Luck, Laughter, and a Dash of Leprechaun Magic
New Gellyball arena opens up at Peru Mall
EYES ON ENTERPRISE
Stephanie Jaquins
Each fall, Insanity Haunted House hosts a scare-free haunted house one day a week at its Peru Mall location, and every year, the most common feedback is appreciation from parents happy for an activity to occupy their children.
“We listened to the public when they said there was nothing for the kids to do,” said Pete Pavia, owner of Insanity Haunted House and his new venture, Peru GellyBall.
“Everyone keeps asking, ‘What’s GellyBall?’” he said. “It’s kind of a cross of paintball, airsoft and laser tag. There’s no pain in it.”
Pavia learned about it at a convention where he met a GellyBall representative and felt it fit the bill for Illinois Valley youth – a no-mess, low-impact, affordable action game.
The shooting game, recommended for ages 5 and up, uses battery-powered blasters to shoot water-hydrated gel orbs that burst on impact, but don’t leave stains and cause minimal sting.
“The big one is no pain. That’s the problem with airsoft or paintball. It hurts when you get shot,” he said.
Pavia said there are different games kids can play, such as capture the flag or freeze tag. The smallest package is 700 GellyBall shots.
GellyBall typically uses inflatables for its arena and is mobile, intended for parties.
“That’s not how I do things. I went all out and built an arena. I think people are going to love it,” he said. “The black-
light aspect gives the haunted vibe. That was my spin on it.”
The immobile arena is about 4,000 square feet, located inside the Peru Mall across from Secret Nails and near the entrance of the former JCPenney.
Once this side of the business is established, Pavia plans to add inflatables for parties.
In the meantime, parties are avail-
able to book at the mall location. He said there’s been great interest in parties.
Open play is not available while the space is being used for a party.
Hours are from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Parties are available to book during the week, also. Pavia also plans to add more hours in the summer when kids are out of school.
• The Times / NewsTribune / Bureau County Republican is committed to keeping readers up to date with business happenings in the area. Much of our reporting relies on what we see and hear, but we’re also reaching out to readers for tips on business items. If you have a tip to share for Eyes on Enterprise, email newsroom@mywebtimes. com.
Photo provided by Pete Pavia
A player aims a battery-powered blaster during a game of GellyBall at Peru Mall. The game, recommended for ages 5 and up, features blacklight effects and allows players to participate in games such as capture the flag and freeze tag.
SPORTS
REGIONAL BOYS BASKETBALL: PREVIEW
TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY
1964: Muhammad Ali wins his first world heavyweight boxing title when Sonny Liston fails to come out for round 7 at Convention Hall, Miami Beach.
Area regional boys basketball pairings
By KEVIN HIERONYMUS khieronymus@shawmedia.com
1A REGIONALS
At Bureau Valley
Monday : Game 1 - 15 Rockford Our Lady of the Sacred Heart (5-24) at 2 Lanark Eastland (27-4). Game 2 - 10 Polo (13-15) at 7 West Carroll (14-16). Game 314 Hiawatha (13-16) at 3 Orion (23-8). Game 4 - 11 Bureau Valley (10-16) at 6 Fulton (13-18)
Wednesday: Game 5 - Winners 1-2, 6 p.m. Game 6: Winners 3-4, 7:30 p.m.
Friday: Championship - Winners 5-6, 7 p.m.
Next: Winner advances to Orion Sectional to face Pearl City Regional winner at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 4 At Serena
Monday: Game 1 - 9 Midland (15-15) at 8 Serena (15-15). Game 2 - 13 DePue (7-20) at 4 Dwight (17-12).. Game 3 - 12 Putnam County (9-22) at 5 St. Bede (16-13)
Wednesday: Game 4 - 1 Marquette (22-7) vs. Winner 1, 6 p.m. Game 5: Winners 2-3, 7:30 p.m.
Scott Anderson file photo Logan Philhower (left), and the Bureau Valley Storm will host their own regional, but have to win a play-in game at Fulton on Monday to get there.
Friday: Championship - Winners 4-5, 7 p.m.
Next: Winner advances to Amboy Sectional to face Hinckley Regional winner at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 3 At Woodland
Monday: Game 1 - 15 Earlville (1-28) at 2 Woodland (22-9). Game 2 - 10 Leland (1217) at 7 Henry-Senachwine (16-13). Game
3 - 14 LaMoille (3-23) at 3 Newark (15-15). Game 4 - 11 Amboy (10-20) at 6 Gardner-South Wilmington (16-13)
Wednesday: Game 5 - Winners 1-2, 6 p.m. Game 6: Winners 3-4, 7:30 p.m.
Friday: Championship - Winners 4-5, 7 p.m.
Next: Winner advances to Amboy Sectional to face Somonauk Regional winner at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 4
2A REGIONALS
At Farmington
Monday: Game 1 - 9 Princeton (5-25) at 8 Monmouth-Roseville (12-17)
Wednesday: Game 2 - 1 Sherrard (21-7) vs. Winner 1, 6 p.m. Game 3 - 4 Farmington (15-13) vs. 5 Kewanee (14-17), 7:30 p.m.
Friday: Championship - Winners 2-3, 7 p.m.
Next: Winner advances to IVC Sectional to face Canton Regional winner at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 3 At Rockridge
Monday: Game 1 - 10 Rockridge (4-23) at 7 Hall (13-17)
Wednesday: Game 2 - 2 Riverdale (22-8) vs. Winner 1, 6 p.m. Game 3 - 3 Chillicothe IVC (17-13) vs. 6 Mercer County (14-16),
The Putnam County eighth-grade volleyball team won the championship of the Lostant Cobras Tournament on Feb. 13-14, defeating Mendota Holy Cross 25-16, 25-8. Team members are (front row, from left) Anniston Judd, Natalie Guadiana, Anahi Avila, Jolene Poole, lillian Bouxsein, Sophie Shepherd and Jaylynn Dickey; and (back row) assistant coach Avery Grasser, Giuliana Cimei Alllyza Mucu, Avery Lenkaitis,
7:30 p.m.
Friday: Championship - Winners 2-3, 7 p.m.
Next: Winner advances to IVC Sectional to face Downs Tri-Valley Regional winner at 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 3 At Rock Falls
Monday: Game 1 - 9 Aurora Central Catholic (12-19) at 8 Genoa-Kingston (9-19)
Wednesday: Game 2 - 1 Mendota (265) vs. Winner 1, 6 p.m. Game 3 - 4 Oregon (22-9) vs. 6 Rock Falls (10-21), 7:30 p.m.
Friday: Championship - Winners 2-3, 7 p.m.
Next: Winner advances to Mendota Sectional to face Marengo Regional winner at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 3
3A REGIONALS
At LaSalle-Peru
Wednesday: Game 1 -2 LaSalle-Peru (1810) vs. 7 Dixon (11-17), 6 p.m. Game 2 - 3 Ottawa (14-12) vs. (5) Streator (13-17), 7:30 p.m.
Friday: Championship - Winners 1-2, 7 p.m.
Next: Winner advances to Ottawa Sectional to face Morton Regional winner at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 3
Photo provided
Savanna Grasser, Izzy Bartoluzzi, Kinsey Pierski, Elimae Glenn, Arianna McMullen, Murphy Hopkins and head coach Shannon Jenkins. Anni Judd won the Sportsmanship Award.
Photo provided
The Putnam County seventh-grade volleyball team took the consolation championship at the Lostant Cobras Tournament. Team members are (front row, from left) Emily Reyes, Shaylee Engel, Lindsey Trinidad, Zakari Walker and Aubrey Smith; and (back row) Madison Actis, Juliana Cimei, Brynn Zimmerline, Allyza Mucu, Sophia Jackson and Aleena Holstrom. Julianna Cimei won the Sportsmanship Award
‘Now or never’: Hoffman shoots Alleman past St. Bede
By KEVIN HIERONYMUS khieronymus@shawmedia.com
Jillian Hoffman was the most unlikely hero for Rock Island Alleman going into Thursday’s 2A girls regional championship game at St. Bede.
She’s a defensive-minded player who scored only two points, missing her only three-point attempt. But when her team needed her the most, the 5-4 senior guard hit back-to-back three-pointers to shoot the Pioneers to a 37-34 lead early in the fourth quarter, their first since early in the second quarter.
That spark propelled the Pioneers to the regional championship, defeating the host Bruins 42-40.
“It was a regional game. It was now or never,” Hoffman said. “I’m a senior, and it was really a great opportunity. I knew I had to take it for my team and coaches. I’ve been playing with these girls for so long. It means the world to me to have another couple games with them.”
The Pioneers (16-17) will play AP No. 2-ranked Byron (29-2) at the Mendota Sectional on Feb. 24. Byron beat Rockford Lutheran 67-36 at the Somonauk Regional.
“I’m super excited. It’s amazing,” Hoffman said. “It [three straight regionals] hadn’t been done in over 20 years I think. So, it’s a really big accomplishment and I’m happy to do it with my favorite girls ever. It’s insane.”
Senior sharp-shooter Lili McClain hit three straight 3-pointers to fuel a 10-0 St. Bede second-quarter run, sending the Bruins to a 24-16 halftime lead.
St. Bede maintained its 8-point edge
St.
Granville fights for a jump ball on the hardwood with Alleman’s Alysa Brinkman in the Thursday, Nov. 19 Class 2A Regional finals at St.
with a drive by freshman Hannah Heiberger and a putback by Ava Balestri for a 28-20 lead to start the third quarter. Senior center Savanna Bray added a hook shot off an inbounds play to send the Bruins to a 7-point lead, but Alleman’s Megan Hulke drained a 3-pointer with a minute left to bring the Pioneers within 30-26 at quarter’s end.
Hanna Waszowiak followed a hoop by Lili McClain off a lob pass from Bray to put the Bruins up 34-28 early in the fourth quarter. Emilye Polich scored on a 3-point lead to cut the St. Bede lead in half.
Then Hoffman, who scored all of her eight points in the second half, decided it was her time to step up. She hit one 3-pointer from the top of the key to tie the game at 34 with 3:55 left to play. Hoffman
REGIONAL GIRLS BASKETBALL: UPDATE
A look at Putnam County regional scores and pairings:
Class 1A Regionals
AT GALVA
Feb. 17: 1 Newman 49, 9 Stark County 35
4 Bureau Valley 67, 6 Polo 42
Feb. 20: Championship - 1 Newman (24-6) 66, 4 Bureau Valley (23-9) 41 AT AMBOY
Feb. 14 : 7 Ottawa Marquette 58, (10) GSW 43
5 Dwight 56, Putnam County 19
Feb. 16 : 7 Ottawa Marquette 68, 2 Parkview Christian Academy 57
Feb. 19: Championship - Cissna Park 55, Fieldcrest 20
liked that one so much, she did it again with 3:15 remaining, this time a little farther, to shoot the Pioneers to a 37-34 edge.
“Oh, man, Jill. “She’s a quiet player,” Alleman coach Steve Ford said. “I love when she shoots the basketball. She doesn’t shoot it very often. She loves Caitlin Clark and she hit a couple fairly close to Caitlin Clark’s distance. Big for us.”
Hoffman acknowledged that Clark, the former Iowa legend and WNBA super star, is a “big inspiration.”
St. Bede coach Tom Ptak admitted while the Bruins had prepped for Hoffman’s defense prowess, she was off their radar offensively.
“Big-time [surprise]. On the second 3, I turned to the bench, and said, ‘I don’t remember her scoring like that.’ But
that’s basketball,” he said. “Those were huge 3s. Changed the momentum on us. Totally threw me off.”
McClain shot twice deep for the tie, but missed. Bray grabbed a rebound and scored with a putback to pull the Bruins within 38-37 with 49.2 left, but couldn’t convert the 3-point play from the charity stripe.
Hulke (18 points) made two free throws to put Alleman up 40-37, and after McClain fouled out, Ashlan Heersink hit 1-2 free throws to cut the Alleman lead to two.
Hulke made two more free throws with 12.8 remaining with Waszkowiak scoring at the buzzer as the Bruins ran out of time.
Ford said the Pioneers were just taking it one basket at a time as they mounted their second-half comeback.
“We just started leaving in that nextplay mentality. You can’t do anything about the last play. You can do it the next play. We just kept continuing to believe in the second half. Obviously, you’re not going to get an 8-point shot. You just got to slowly inch it back and continue to play hard.”
The Bruins bow out at 19-14 and Ptak was proud how they battled to the end.
“They gave us every ounce of energy they had. I’m really proud of them, Couple things didn’t go our way. Couple shots didn’t fall. But if you were a fan, you got your money’s worth.
“Wonderful game. Good environment. It hurts. I feel bad for the seniors. They had great careers.”
Lili McClain led the Bruins with 17 points before fouling out and Bray finished with 10.
Class 2A Sectionals
AT MENDOTA
Tuesday, Feb. 24: 1 Riverdale (28-3) vs. 2 Winnebago. Game 2 - 1 Byron (28-2) vs. 2 Alleman (16-17)
Notice is given of the death of JUDITH E. MORAN, of the Village of Mark, Putnam County, Illinois. Letters of office as Executor were issued on January 23, 2026 to Cheryl Kunkel, whose attorney is Richard C. Fiocchi of Bernabei, Balestri & Fiocchi, 329 W. Dakota Street, Spring Valley, IL 61362
CLASSIFIED
y within the above periods are banned. E filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions To e file you must first create an account with an efiling service provider Visit https://efile illinoiscourts.gov/ service- providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www illinoiscourts.gov/FAQ gethelp.asp
PUBLIC NOTICE
CIRCUI T CO URT OF THE 1 3th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
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
Don' t need it? Sell it ! To place a Classified ad call 833-584-N EWS
PU TNAM COUNTY, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF JUDITH E. MORAN DECEASED No. 2 025- PR-7 CL AIM NO TICE
Notice is given of the death of JUDITH E. MORAN, of the Village of Mark, Putnam County, Illinois. Letters of office as Executor were issued on January 23, 2026 to Cheryl Kunkel, whose attorney is Richard C. Fiocchi of Bernabei, Balestri & Fiocchi, 329 W. Dakota Street, Spring Valley, IL 61362
Claims against the estate may be e-filed in the Office of the Circuit, Clerk, Civil Division, Putnam County Courthouse, 120 N 4th Street, Hennepin, Illinois 61327, or with the representative or both, within 6 months from the date of first publication of this Notice. If claim notice is personally mailed or delivered to a creditor of the above estate, then claim must be filed in the aboveentitled cause within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery, whichever is later. Any claims not filed within the above periods are banned. E filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions To e file you must first create an account with an efiling service provider. Visit https://efile illinoiscourts.gov/ service- providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www illinoiscourts.gov/FAQ gethelp.asp
Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the Attorney within 10 days after it has been
Claims against the estate may be e-filed in the Office of the Circuit, Clerk, Civil Division, Putnam County Courthouse, 120 N 4th Street, Hennepin, Illinois 61327, or with the representative or both, within 6 months from the date of first publication of this Notice If claim notice is personally mailed or delivered to a creditor of the above estate, then claim must be filed in the aboveentitled cause within 3 months from the date of mailing or delivery, whichever is later. Any claims not filed within the above periods are banned. E filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions To e file you must first create an account with an efiling service provider Visit https://efile illinoiscourts.gov/ service- providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www illinoiscourts.gov/FAQ gethelp.asp
Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the Attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.
Dated this 11th day of February, 2026
Richard C. Fiocchi Attorney for the Estate
329 W. Dakota Street Spring Valley, IL 61362 (815) 664-2358 atlaw@bbandflaw.com
(Published in Putnam County Record Feb. 11, 18, 25, 2026) 2303801
Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Repres entative and to the Attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.
Dated this 11th day of February, 2026
Richard C. Fiocchi Attorney for the Estate
329 W. Dakota Street Spring Valley, IL 61362 (815) 664-2358
atlaw@bbandflaw.com
(Published in Putnam County Record Feb. 11, 18, 25, 2026) 2303801
AU CTIO N NO TICE
Magnolia Township 1999 Ford F350 Dumptruck/Plow/Saltspreader Auction ends April 1, 2026 for info call Grimes Auction Service 309- 238- 8623
(Putnam County Record Feb. 25, 2026) 2306628
putnamcountyrecord.com Putnam County Record
Buying? Selling? Renti ng? Hiring?
Call 833- 584- NEWS to pl ace your ad Putnam County Record Cl assi fi ed
