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Maybe we should think about what to do in the calm before the storm

My head was on a swivel, standing at the sliding door into my backyard. It was dark, except for lightning flashes. I slid the door open to listen. They say it sounds like a freight train coming.

I kept swinging my head back to the TV and a weather map with a large red square screaming TORNADO WARNING.

That red box was over our town. It felt like it was over our house. I was confused. I heard no sirens, but funnels are hard to see at night. The warning must have been based on radar. A twister had torn up the town of Lena, and bad stuff was happening up north. My wife began to gather items for a rush to our basement. I stood at the patio door, unconvinced. It was too calm for a raging storm. I kept listening ... and waiting. I told myself hail would be a good clue.

That looming red box was hard to ignore. So I gave in and also began collecting items. This wasn’t the first time we did a quick pack. And yet, a couple of facts hit home.

First ... we had no plan, other than to get all bodies, including the dog, into the basement. No designated spot in the basement. The dog was waiting at the stairs. Did he know something I didn’t know?

Second ... yes, we needed some essentials, but we grabbed whatever came to mind. There was no list. I still don’t have one. This attitude strength-

PAPERWORK

ens the argument that people tend to think bad stuff will never happen to them.

The “warning” was lifted soon after. We were lucky. How many times have we said that over the years? At least 14 tornadoes were reported that Friday night, the strongest was an EF2 that hit Lena with a peak of 130 mph wind and a width up to 750 yards traveling 8.5 miles. There was no loss of life or serious injury, but plenty of damage.

My wife posted about our experience, but focused on what we really need to think about.

“I find it interesting the things I take down to the basement,” she said. “My wedding rings, the dog’s leash and my passport. Lonny wisely grabs shoes and a raincoat! Smart hubby. So I have shoes and a coat now, too. Also, my year’s supply of contact lenses and my glasses. … Stay safe, everyone!”

Into a small bag I also tossed a flashlight, my wallet, keys to the truck and reading glasses. It is interesting the things that pop into your head during a quick pack. My wife’s Facebook post prompted some good advice.

Linda said: “Car keys in case it survives, important papers, and purse and cash in case ATM don’t work and even

lose power.”

Andrea said: “The family Bible, two rings from my great grandmother, original photos from the 1800s and 1900s ... family ashes. My 7-year-old? A million stuffed animals came to the basement.”

And Denise pitched: “I grab several changes of clothes with me as I hate seeing people in their underwear with a blanket over their shoulders on the TV.”

You could turn this into a party game: “You have 60 seconds to list what you would take in your basement during a tornado warning.” It comes down to the practical versus the emotional. And time. It would have been wiser to just pack my bag and go low. But I fight the flight even though I know what can happen.

My sister lost her house in the 1990 Plainfield tornado. All that was left was some bathroom plumbing ... and the basement. The basement that sheltered and protected her two children and some friends.

Sometimes it doesn’t matter what you pack. With seconds to spare, her kids took to safety what mattered most. Themselves.

• Lonny Cain, retired managing editor of The Times in Ottawa, also was a reporter for The Herald-News in Joliet in the 1970s. His PaperWork email is lonnyjcain@gmail.com. Or mail the NewsTribune, 426 Second St., La Salle IL 61301.

$30 million in federal funds proposed for 20 local projects

across Underwood’s district

By JESSIE MOLLOY jmolloy@shawmedia.com

U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood, D-Naperville, announced 20 local projects in the 14th Congressional District have been submitted for federal funding in the 2027 budget. The projects, which come under Community Project Funding initiative, range from protecting clean drinking water to strengthening access to quality health care

in rural communities to public transit systems.

The Community Project Funding initiative allows members of Congress to directly request federal funding for projects that benefit their home districts. These funds must go to projects created by state and local government bodies or eligible nonprofit organizations.

“If funded, these projects will have extraordinary benefits for our commu -

nity,” Underwood said in a statement. “Making sure that our community’s needs are reflected in federal funding has always been a top priority of mine in Washington. Our families will feel the enormous impact of these 20 projects every day.”

The 20 projects request more than $30 million in funding for fiscal 2027.

FEDERAL FUNDING, page 5

Lonny Cain

River Valley players offering tearful experiences in ‘Steel Magnolias’

By TOM COLLINS tcollins@shawmedia.com

Going to see River Valley Players later this month? Bring a few Kleenex. You’re going to need them.

From April 30 to May 3, the Henry-based theater troupe is reviving a tear-jerker, “Steel Magnolias,” a 1987 play by Robert Harling that was adapted into a hit 1989 film.

“Steel Magnolias” tells the story of women in Louisiana who bond at Truvy’s salon. While there are laughs and relatable stories, “Steel Magnolias” takes a dramatic turn that leaves both cast and audience dabbing their eyes.

“All these women come to her beauty shop and get done up,” said Christine Gaspardo, who plays Truvy. “They tell their life stories, bear their hearts and souls, and still have fun and love each other.”

Gaspardo said the stage version will offer refreshing elements even to those who’ve seen the film many times. While the screen adaptation changes settings, the stage version is set squarely in the beauty parlor with commensurate

changes to the screenplay.

And without spoiling the plot, Gaspardo acknowledged it has been depleting for her and other cast members to plow through the emotional climax.

“It’s difficult to get through,” she said. “There are always tears every time we run that last scene.”

Deb Puetz plays Clairee following a long hiatus from the stage. She easily shook off the rust because the part was tailor-made for her and the script has every element one could want in a stage production.

“There are so many good lines,” she said. “It’s about female friendship and there are good laughs and yet it becomes very poignant. It’s just about how women hold each other up.

“I’ve just been very proud and pleased to be part of it.”

Deanne Crook plays Shelby. She agreed rehearsals have been taxing because of the play’s emotional wallop, but the production works in no small part because of a strong cast with excellent chemistry.

Scott Anderson

Shelby played by Deanne Crook, and M’Lynn played by Kelli Landon, rehearse a scene of “Steel Magnolias” on April 21 at St John XXIII Community Center in Henry. The River Valley Players will perform “Steel Magnolias” from April 30 to May 3.

4 - 9:00 am – 11:00 am Stress Busting at BCSC in Princeton

5 - 9:00 am – 11:00 am – Matter of Balance class 12:30 pm – Cinco de Mayo Game

7 - 9:00 am – 11:00 am – Matter of Balance class 9:30 am – Site Council Meeting 12:30 pm – Mother’s Day Party

8 - 9:30 am – PCCC Board Meeting

11 - 9:00 am – 10:00 am – Medicare Part B Prevention & Wellness Benefits, Extra Help/LIS, MSP Program & BA Enrollment

9:00 am – 11:00 am Stress Busting at BCSC in Princeton

12 - 9:00 am – 11:00 am – Matter of Balance class 9:30 am – 11:30 am - Free Blood Pressure & Glucose check 12:30 pm – Social Hour

14 - 9:00 am – 11:00 am – Matter of Balance class 12:30 pm – 5 Second Game

18 - 9:00 am – 11:00 am Stress Busting at BCSC in Princeton

19 - 9:00 am – 11:00 am – Matter of Balance class 12:30 pm – Bunco

21 - 9:00 am – 11:00 am – Matter of Balance class 10:00 am – 11:30 am – Outreach Hennepin Library

12:30 pm – Bingo

25 - CLOSED – MEMORIAL DAY

26 - 9:00 am – 11:00 am – Matter of Balance class 9:00 am – 11:00 am Stress Busting at BCSC in Princeton 12:30 pm – Bingo

28 - 9:00 am – 11:00 am – Matter of Balance class

10:00 – Basket Craft

12:30 pm – Bingo

Please note Exercise Classes, Tues. & Thurs. 10:30 am Activities are subject to change. Call the PCCC for Virtual Links.

THANK YOU, DONORS!

AARP Tax Day Donations Various Donors Katie Forbes Charlene Sandberg Jeff & Ranee Dauphin Paul McCauley Michael & Sandra Quartucci

IN MEMORY OF

Alma Toedter – Larry & Barb Kessler, Family & Friends of Alma Toedter, Reed & Sydney

Wilson, Patrick Linder, John & Debra Redshaw, Joan Zellmer, Debra Holmes, Nancy & James Repholz, Don & Rosa Naumann, Loretta Schrowang, Roberta Hensen, Bruch Farmland Holding Company, LLC., John & Trudy Sandberg, Nancy Yauch

Mary Lee Piccinelli – Family & Friends of Mary Lee Piccinelli, Todd & Annette McKey, Shannon & Angie Fay, Steve & Karen Mecagni, Larry & Debra Doyle, John & Debra Redshaw, Frank Vulcani, Janice Siemers, Helen Aimone, Debra Holmes, John & Diane Holmbeck, Bill & Sheila Haage, Nancy Carlson,

Gladys King – Family & Friends of Gladys King, Cynthia Bruch, Donna Berry, Steve & Darla Harvey, Vicki Ehrhardt, Marla Antolik, William & Linda Klein, Candace & Richard Haar, Nancy Bejster – Friends of Nancy Bejster

Fred Sammons – Memorial – Fred Sammons (Rhonda Zeman)

Eugene Kunkel – John & Rene Twardowski

Marilyn Grant – Alba Ellena, Ken & Sandy Colby, Ken & Karen Verda

Gloria Medina – William & Norma Hrovat, Donna Schad, Joan

PUTNAM COUNTY COMMUNITY CENTER – MAY 2026

~ Fire Up The Grill ~ Raffle

Hennepin Foods “Meat Dept.” Gift Cards

Prizes: 1st - $200 - Gift card 2nd-$100 - Gift card

3rd - $50 - Gift card

Tickets are $5 each

Drawing is on: July 4, 2026 Please stop in at the

DO YOU HAVE Concerns about falling?

Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. A MATTER OF BALANCE is an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels.

This program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls.

YOU WILL LEARN TO:

• view falls as controllable

• set goals for increased activity

• make changes to reduce fall risks at home

• exercise to increase strength and balance

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

• anyone concerned about falls

• anyone interest in improving balance, flexibility and strength

• anyone who has fallen in the past

• anyone who has restricted activities because of falling concerns

Each session is led by trained Matter of Balance coaches. These coaches help participants become more confident about managing falls by believing that they can increase their strength, find ways to reduce falls, and protect themselves if they do fall.

There are 8 sessions that last 2 hours each. The classes are on Tuesdays and Thursdays for four weeks.

First class will start Tuesday May 5th 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

There is a suggested donation of $15 to cover the costs of workbooks. * No one will be denied participation due to the inability to make a donation*

Wear comfortable clothing and tennis shoes.

Snack and water will be provided

Lunch is available at approximately 12 noon - must sign up the day before

For additional information or to sign up for the classes please call, PCCC at 815-339-2711

A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls Volunteer Lay Leader Model ©2006 This program is based on Fear of Falling: A Matter of Balance. Copyright @1995 Trustees of Boston University. All rights reserved. Used and adapted by permission of Boston University.

A Matter of Balance Lay Leader Model

Recognized for innovation and Quality in Healthcare and Aging, 2006, American Society on Aging A Matter of Balance Lay Leader Model was developed by a grant from the Administration on Aging (#00AM2780).

Bureau County

• The Spring Valley Water Main Extension and Connection, sponsored by the City of Spring Valley, would use $522,500 to replace and construct new water infrastructure between the City of Spring Valley and the city of Peru.

• The Hall Township Food Security & Affordability Infrastructure Project, sponsored by Hall Township, would use $750,000 to renovate and repurpose an empty salt shed building in Spring Valley into a permanent food storage and distribution facility for the township’s food pantry.

DeKalb County

• The DeKalb Metra Rail Extension Preparation Project, sponsored by the City of DeKalb, would use $1,200,000 to advance the extension of Metra commuter rail service along the Union Pacific West Line between Elburn and DeKalb. The funding would go towards preparing development plans and doing environmental analysis for the extension.

• The Flewellin Memorial Library Renovation and Modernization sponsored by Shabbona Township would use $1,778,762 to upgrade the township’s aging library and improve it’s safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency.

• The Somonauk Fire Protection District Critical Life Safety Equipment Replacement project, sponsored by the Somonauk Fire Protection District, would use $474,000 to upgrade and replace critical, life-safety equipment for the fire protection district.

Kane County

• The Sugar Grove Fire Community Training Facility project, sponsored by the Sugar Grove Fire Protection District, would use $2 million to construct a regional fire training complex for the district. The facility would also be utilized by the Waubonsee Community College Fire Science Technology students.

• The Electric Buses for Pace’s Southeast Aurora On Demand Service Project, sponsored by Pace, would use $800,000 to buy two battery-powered buses for Pace’s

OBITUARIES

TODD NYMAN

Todd Patrick Nyman, 67, of Dover, Illinois, passed on April 21, 2026.

Arrangements entrusted to Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments, Princeton, IL. Additional information: www.norbergfh.com.

Southeast Aurora On Demand service to replace aging gas-powered vehicles.

Kendall County

• The Oswego School District Student Success & Workforce Development Project, sponsored by Oswego School District 308, would use $3,081,449 to convert underutilized office space into specialized classrooms for students with disabilities to teach job and independent living skills.

• Phase 2 of the Lake Michigan Water Source Receiving Stations Project, sponsored by the village of Oswego, would use $2,640,000 to construct new water infrastructure in Montgomery, Oswego and Yorkville to support the communities’ connection to the DuPage Water Commission for Lake Michigan water hookup.

LaSalle County

• The Mendota Civic Center Revitalization Project, sponsored by the city of Mendota, would use $253,000 to modernize and repair the Mendota Civic Center. The building houses Mendota Area Senior Services, monthly youth programs and meeting and event space for local organizations.

• The City of Ottawa Public Transit Fleet Replacement project, sponsored by the city of Ottawa, would use $720,000 in funding to buy five new buses for the North Central Area Transit system’s aging fleet. Half of the current fleet has already exceeded it’s lifespan, and the funding would allow for expanded hours and territory coverage.

• The North Utica Church Street Water Main Replacement Project, sponsored by the village of North Utica, would use $1,636,000 to replace and upgrade aging water infrastructure along Church Street in Utica including 150-year-old lead pipes and service lines, and resurfacing the street.

Putnam County

• The Improving Rural Health Rapid Response in Putnam County project, sponsored by the Putnam County Board, would use $281,250 to buy an equipped ambulance for the Putnam County Emergency Medical Services. The organization is serving more than 250 miles of road in the

page 8

Send obituary information to putnamobits@shawlocal.com or call 815-632-2534. Notices are accepted until 5 p.m. Friday for Wednesday’s edition.

Illinois Extension offers square foot gardening workshop May 12

Free class teaches garden planning, layout design for beginners and experienced gardeners

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Illinois Extension will offer a garden planning workshop from 4 to 5 p.m. May 12, at the Richard A. Mautino Memorial Library, 215 E. Cleveland St., Spring Valley, designed for gardeners of all experience levels.

The workshop introduces participants to square foot gardening and guides them in developing a personal -

ized garden plan tailored to their space, goals and experience level.

Attendees will explore practical techniques for layout design, soil preparation, crop selection and succession planting with guidance from Illinois Extension staff and local Master Gardeners.

Each participant will leave with a customized garden plan.

The workshop is open to adults of all experience levels, from first-time gardeners to hobbyists looking to try a new method.

To register, visit go.illinois.edu/GardenPlanSpringValley.

For questions or to request an accommodation, contact Emily Hansen at emhansen@illinois.edu or 815-433-0707. Early requests are encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet access needs.

AP file photo

Illinois Extension will offer a garden planning workshop May 12 from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Richard A. Mautino Memorial Library, 215 E. Cleveland St., Spring Valley, designed for gardeners of all experience levels.

PCJH wins Little Tri-County Scholastic Bowl

The Putnam County Junior High Scholastic Bowl team won the Little Tri-County championship on Saturday at Fieldcrest. PC defeated Henry-Senachwine 400-60 and El Paso- Gridley 320-240 to sweep pool play. PC defeated Roanoake-Benson for the championship 290-260. The Pumas will take the No. 1 seed to the regional which they will host. Team members are Ean Smith (from left) Makenna Goulding, Ayden Dienst, Enrique Barreras, Colton Nicoli, AJ Kloet and Brendan Linton.

• ‘STEEL MAGNOLIAS’

Continued from page 3

“Everyone that I’m in the show with is phenomenal on and off stage,” Crook said. “They’re just great people to be around. There are fun moments, there are heartfelt moments, and it’s almost impossible not to become a tight-knit family when you’re doing a show like this.”

Rounding out the cast are Kelli Landon as M’Lynn, Emma Kay Gas-

pardo as Annelle, and Cyndy Bruch as Ouiser. River Valley Players offers dinner shows and play-only performances. Dinner shows are $43 per person and are at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, May 2 and at 1 p.m. Sunday, May 3. Show-only tickets are $23 and will be at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 30 and at 7:30 p.m. May 1, with a 2 p.m. matinee on May 2. To buy tickets, visit rvphenry.org or call 309-238-7878. All performances are at 1301 Second St., Henry. Dinner shows are catered by Barrack’s Hospitality Group.

Photo provided by PCJH

Scott Anderson

(From left) Annelle played by Emma Kay Gaspardo, Shelby played by Deanne Crook, Ouiser played by Cyndy Bruch, and Truvy played by Christine Gaspardo, act out a scene during a rehearsal of Steel Magnolias on April 21 at St John XXIII Community Center in Henry.

area. It’s oldest vehicle is from 2001 with more than 150,000 miles on it. The new vehicle and equipment would help modernize the system.

Will County

• The Grand Prairie Water Commission Alternative Water Source Program Regional Transmission Main (Segment B) project, sponsored by the city of Joliet, would use $5 million to construct water pipes to deliver treated Lake Michigan water to the communities of Joliet, Crest Hill, Channahon, Minooka, Romeoville and Shorewood through two water delivery structures in Joliet.

• The Enhancing Law Enforcement Effectiveness in Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence project, sponsored by Guardian Angel Community Services in Joliet, would use $1 million to support the operations and staffing costs. The organization provides aid, including housing assistance and basic supplies, for survivors of domestic abuse.

• The Joliet Junior College Public Safety Institute, sponsored by Joliet Junior College, would use $2 million to create a regional hub to train fire service,

law enforcement, and emergency medical professionals. The funds would go towards renovating space on JJC’s campus for new training academies and expanding existing programs and new equipment.

• The Preston Heights Health & Economic Opportunity Kitchen project, sponsored by the Will County Board, would use $285,000 to construct a commercial kitchen facility at the Labor of Love Community Garden in Preston Heights near Joliet. The facility would serve as a community resource for food education, food safety certification, job training, and small business incubation. It also would allow for expansion of existing educational programs.

• The Phase 3 Fairmont Stormwater System Rehabilitation Project, sponsored by Lockport Township, would use $1,334,500 to upgrade and replace stormwater infrastructure in the Fairmont community. The project also would include new sidewalks.

• The Village of Plainfield Environmental Infrastructure Program, sponsored by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Chicago District, would use $2 million to construct new water infrastructure, including a water storage tank, in Plainfield to help receive Lake Michigan water.

Festival 56 seeks youth apprentices for summer theater program

Paid positions offer mentorship, hands-on experience in all aspects of production

SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com

Festival 56 in Princeton is seeking up to three youth ages 14-22 to work as paid apprentices with the resident professional theater company this summer.

The eight-week Summer Youth Employment in the Arts program, funded by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, offers apprentices the chance to work in various aspects of theater production, including scenic design, costume design, lighting and sound design, directing, stage management and public relations.

To apply, submit a cover letter including contact information, age as of June 1, 2026, previous experience, career goals in theater arts and a personal artistic statement. A resume and headshot are optional but encouraged.

Applicants should email materials to aharper@festival56.com with the subject line “Apprentice.” Applications are due by May 1.

Following a review of applications, selected candidates will be interviewed. One letter of recommendation from a teacher or artistic mentor may be required.

Applicants younger than 16 must obtain an employment certificate under the Illinois Child Labor Law. The theater will provide a letter of intent to hire, which the teen and parent or guardian must bring to an issuing officer at their school or school district to obtain a work permit.

For information, visit festival56.com and select the Learning Stage tab.

Apprentices will work about 15 hours a week at $15 an hour and will have the opportunity to mentor with one of the company’s professional artists. The program runs between June 8 and Aug. 9.

Office in IVCC ag center to be named after donors

By MATHIAS WOERNER mwoerner@shawmedia.com

A faculty office in Illinois Valley Community College’s Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center will be named in honor of Jerome and Katherine Corcoran.

The building features conference rooms, flexible classroom space and room for a future greenhouse.

The Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center is expected to be ready for occupancy in 2027, according to a press release.

The Corcorans contributed $10,000 in support of the new building, according to the release.

Jerome Corcoran’s career at IVCC spanned 33 years, including 15 years as the president before he retired in 2023, according to the release.

In addition to initiating planning for the Agricultural Education Center, Corcoran’s administration spearheaded other campus expansion projects.

Corcoran said his donation supports IVCC’s mission to respond to its community’s needs.

“It had been a long time since we offered many classes in agriculture. We decided to develop a program and hired a top-notch coordinator to help it ‘take flight,’ ” he said. “We went from two agriculture courses and marginal facilities to 22 courses and 70 students annually.”

In a district where farming is a leading

An office in the Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center will bear the name of Dr. Jerome and Katherine Corcoran, contributors to the Illinois Valley Community College Ag Forward building campaign. The Corcorans (center) presented a check to IVCC Foundation Executive Director Tracy Beattie (left) and Executive Director President Dr. Tracy Morris (right) to support the project.

industry, prospective students once went elsewhere to pursue a major in agriculture, according to the release.

The facility will provide new opportunities for students, who Corcoran said, “will be able to walk out of the classroom and see exactly what they are studying and its relevance by having a laboratory in the middle of corn and soybean fields.”

Corcoran applauded IVCC President Dr. Tracy Morris and her staff for sup -

porting and expanding the agriculture program.

“That is why Katherine and I are so happy to support this important fundraising activity,” he said.

The new building will help redefine the IVCC Agriculture program, according to the release, outfitting the college to train and upskill agriculture workers, and aid in the development of new technology and sustainable prac-

tices.

“This building would not be happening if not for Dr. Corcoran’s leadership,” Morris said. “He and Katherine have been tremendous supporters of the college, the foundation, and the agriculture programs. I think it is very fitting that their names will be a permanent part of our outstanding facility.”

Equipped with leading-edge innovation labs and technology, the 10,250-square-foot building puts students at the heart of the college’s 153-acre farm of test plots and cropland, according to the release.

The $7.6 million capital project is made possible by community support and public grants, including $3.5 million from the U.S. Department of Economic Development Administration and $240,000 from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, according to the release.

Currently, IVCC’s Ag Forward campaign has brought in more than $1.6 million in support of naming opportunities, according to the release.

Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski, for whom the building is named, was the longest serving president in IVCC’s history and his investment in the project is a tribute to his legacy.

For information about the Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center and the IVCC Foundation fundraising effort, Ag Forward, visit www.ivcc.edu/ agforward or call 815-224-0550.

Photo provided by the Illinois Valley Community College

County of Putnam State of Illinois

Official publication of the general assessments of real property of record as of January 1, 2026 in the TOWNSHIP OF GRANVILLE, Putnam County, Illinois as certified to and equalized by this office. The Supervisor of Assessments has applied an equalization factor to the below listed classes of property in GRANVILLE township:

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS

All property in Putnam County, other than farmland and coal, are assessed at 33.33% of the fair market value. Your property is to be assessed at the above listed median level of assessment for the assessment district. You may check the accuracy of your assessment by dividing your assessment by the median level of assessment. (33.33%) The resulting value should equal the estimated fair cash value of your property. If the resulting value is greater than the estimated fair cash value of your property, you may be over-assessed. If the resulting value is less than the estimated fair cash value of your property, you may be under-assessed. Your assessment, less exemptions will be used to determine your 2026, payable 2027 property tax bill. For example: Take your equalized assessed value, subtract any exemptions to determine your net taxable assessed value. Take that number times the most current tax rate to get an estimated amount of your property tax bill.

Taxpayers who consider their property incorrectly assessed need to contact the Supervisor of Assessments at 815-925-7238 to discuss their property. If you are not satisfied with the results, you may file an assessment complaint with the Putnam County Board of Review by May 28th, 2026 at 4:00 p.m.

YOU MUST FILE AN ASSESSMENT COMPLAINT WITH THE BOARD OF REVIEW TO PRESERVE YOUR RIGHT TO AN APPEAL.

All assessment complaints filed with the Board of Review must be in writing using the forms provided by the board. Assessment complaint forms and instructions can be acquired from the Putnam County Supervisor of Assessments office in the Putnam County Courthouse at 120 N. 4th Street, Hennepin, IL. or downloaded and printed on line at putnamil.gov If you have questions about filing a complaint, you may contact the Assessor’s office at 815-925-7238.

You may be eligible for one or more of the following homestead exemptions if the property is your primary residence, you are liable for paying the property taxes, and in some instances, meet additional qualifications.

Owner Occupied Exemption: $6000 reduction in EAV

come of less than $65,000 for the prior year. This exemption freezes your assessed value NOT your property taxes!

Home Improvement Exemption- reduces the value by the amount of increase in assessed value due to improvements being added to an existing residential structure or a rebuilding of residential structures following a catastrophic event. This is a four year exemption for improvements up to $25,000 in assessed value.

Disabled Veteran’s Standard homestead Exemption: If the veteran has a service connected disability of 30% but less than 50% the annual exemption is $2500. If the service connected disability of 50% or more but less than 70% then the annual exemption is $5000. If the service connected disability is 70% or more, then the residential property is exempt from taxation under this code.

Disabled Veteran Homestead Exemption- (Specially adapted housing) up to $100,000 reduction in EAV if the federal government has approved payment to construct or modify your home if you are a 100% disabled veteran.

Returning Veteran Exemption- $5000 reduction in EAV the year that you return from an armed conflict and the following year.

Disabled Person- $2000 reduction in EAV if you meet disability requirements.

If you have any question, please call my office at 815-925-7238

Tamara Mehalic C.I.A.O.

Putnam County Supervisor of Assessments

The following listing is in Parcel ID order.

GRANVILLE

Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption- this exemption is for people ages 65 and older $5000 reduction in EAV

Senior Citizen tax Freeze Exemption- is for taxpayers who will be 65 or older during the assessment year and have total household in-

NO. 9002349773, % DAN FI 02-00-083-170

ARDUAN 02-00-094-070 22,028 25,895 VERONDA, DOUGLAS AND LAUREN 02-00-150-030 87,142 91,705

BARNARD, BENJAMIN F 02-01-081-000 44,236

MICHAEL S. & MELISSA 02-01-148-001

KYLE & DONNA 02-04-295-000

RANDI R. 02-13-090-000

JON R 02-20-010-010 101,073

CLAUSEN, JON R 02-20-010-020 0

JON R 02-20-010-030 0

TRUSTEES, MICHAEL AND L 02-26-140-000 2,526 3,689 HAYWARD, LUANN ET AL 02-27-110-000 31,222 41,062 BRANDSTATTER, LORETTA J. 02-27-245-000 70,073 74,556

County of Putnam

State of Illinois

Official publication of the general assessments of real property of record as of January 1, 2026 in the TOWNSHIP OF HENNEPIN, Putnam County, Illinois as certified to and equalized by this office. The Supervisor of Assessments has applied an equalization factor to the below listed classes of property in HENNEPIN township:

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS

YOU MUST FILE AN ASSESSMENT COMPLAINT WITH THE BOARD OF REVIEW TO PRESERVE YOUR RIGHT TO AN APPEAL.

Owner Occupied Exemption: $6000 reduction in EAV

Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption- this exemption is for people ages 65 and older $5000 reduction in EAV

Senior Citizen tax Freeze Exemption- is for taxpayers who will be 65 or older during the assessment year and have total household in-

come of less than $65,000 for the prior year. This exemption freezes your assessed value NOT your property taxes!

Returning Veteran Exemption- $5000 reduction in EAV the year that you return from an armed conflict and the following year.

Disabled Person- $2000 reduction in EAV if you meet disability requirements.

If you have any question, please call my office at 815-925-7238

Tamara Mehalic C.I.A.O.

Putnam County Supervisor of Assessments

The following listing is in Parcel ID order.

HENNEPIN

County of Putnam State of Illinois

Official publication of the general assessments of real property of record as of January 1, 2026 in the TOWNSHIP OF MAGNOLIA, Putnam County, Illinois as certified to and equalized by this office. The Supervisor of Assessments has applied an equalization factor to the below listed classes of property in MAGNOLIA township:

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS

YOU MUST FILE AN ASSESSMENT COMPLAINT WITH THE BOARD OF REVIEW TO PRESERVE YOUR RIGHT TO AN APPEAL.

Owner Occupied Exemption: $6000 reduction in EAV

Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption- this exemption is for people ages 65 and older $5000 reduction in EAV

Senior Citizen tax Freeze Exemption- is for taxpayers who will be 65 or older during the assessment year and have total household income of less than $65,000 for the prior year. This exemption freezes your assessed value NOT your property taxes!

Returning Veteran Exemption- $5000 reduction in EAV the year that you return from an armed conflict and the following year.

Disabled Person- $2000 reduction in EAV if you meet disability requirements.

If you have any question, please call my office at 815-925-7238

Tamara Mehalic C.I.A.O.

Putnam County Supervisor of Assessments

The following listing is in Parcel ID order.

MAGNOLIA

KEVIN S AND BARBARA 04-00-056-160 8,333 13,646

LINDSAY, TODD C. AND MONIQUE M 04-08-122-000 94,656

VILLAGOMEZ, RODOLFO 04-12-080-000 80,621

HOSTETLER, JONATHAN AND SAVANN 04-13-034-000 49,150

HOSTETLER, NORMAN L & GLORIA J 04-13-035-000 0 19,880

HOSTETLER, NORMAN & GLORIA J 04-13-160-000 50,565

KNAPP, TRUSTEES, KEVIN F & SAR 04-18-054-000 0 25,214

SMITH, JOSEPH F 04-20-232-000 23,000 23,361

ILLINGWORTH, MICHAEL AND SAMAN 04-25-200-010 0 4,876

STUNKEL, JOSHUA F 04-25-200-020 65,901 73,618

KNAPP, KEVIN F AND SARAH E 04-26-223-000 138,655

County of Putnam

State of Illinois

Official publication of the general assessments of real property of record as of January 1, 2026 in the TOWNSHIP OF SENACHWINE, Putnam County, Illinois as certified to and equalized by this office . The Supervisor of Assessments has applied an equalization factor to the below listed classes of property in SENACHWINE township:

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS

YOU MUST FILE AN ASSESSMENT COMPLAINT WITH THE BOARD OF REVIEW TO PRESERVE YOUR RIGHT TO AN APPEAL.

Owner Occupied Exemption: $6000 reduction in EAV

Returning Veteran Exemption- $5000 reduction in EAV the year that you return from an armed conflict and the following year.

Disabled Person- $2000 reduction in EAV if you meet disability requirements.

If you have any question, please call my office at 815-925-7238

Tamara Mehalic C.I.A.O.

Putnam County Supervisor of Assessments

The following listing is in Parcel ID order.

SENACHWINE

DEBRA A 03-00-053-052 0 1,122

PREM T 03-00-056-190 10,427

TRAN, HIEU T & ANGEL M 03-00-056-205 67,054

PETER AND BARBARA 03-00-056-240 0

RICHARD & LINDA 03-00-069-280

SARUNAS, VIRON-SKADAS, 03-00-070-040

ROMAN ET AL 03-00-076-121

DEWAELE, CHRISTOPHER & SARAH 03-00-078-035

GARY & ARLENE 03-00-079-180

BRENT R and KENDRA 03-00-081-100

CHAD, TEVERBAUGH, LORI 03-00-082-310 84,807

MAYER, JAMES 03-09-063-050 68,880 81,877

April 29, 2026

SPORTS

TODAY IN SPORTS HISTORY

1981: MLB Philadelphia Phillies Steve Carlton is the first lefty to strike out 3,000 batters

1986: NFL Draft: Aubrun running back Bo Jackson is first pick by Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Putnam County softball, baseball sweep 3 TCC wins

SOFTBALL

Putnam County 2, Dwight 1: Ella Irwin scored on a passed ball in the bottom of the seventh inning to give the Lady Panthers a Tri-County Conference victory in Granville on Thursday, April 23.

Alexis Margis was 2 for 3 with a triple for PC (5-10, 3-6), and Bella Gibson doubled and scored a run.

Kennedy Holocker threw a complete game, giving up one run on five hits with four strikeouts and two walks.

Putnam County 19, Woodland/Flanagan-Cornell 6 (5 inn.): Ella Pyszka hit a two-run triple, and Alexis Margis hit an RBI triple as a part of a 10-run first inning for the Lady Panthers in a TriCounty Conference victory in Granville on Tuesday, April 21

Pyszka was 2 for 4 with two triples, three runs and two RBIs and Margis was 2 for 2 with a triple, a double, three runs and an RBI. Chloe Parcher was 3 for 3 with two doubles, three runs and

three RBIs for PC (4-10, 2-6 TCC), and Paige Tonioni went 2 for 3 with three RBIs and two runs.

Kennedy Holocker earned the win in the circle as she allowed a hit and struck out four in three scoreless innings.

Putnam County 15, Woodland 2 (5 inn.):

Alexis Margis and Paige Tonioni each had three hits, two RBIs and two runs as the Lady Panthers rolled to a TriCounty Conference victory in Streator on Monday, April 20.

Britney Trinidad went 3 for 3 with two runs and an RBI for PC

Kennedy Holocker was the winning pitcher as she gave up two runs (one earned) on five hits with four strikeouts and one walk in a complete game.

BASEBALL

Putnam County 11, Dwight 10: Carter Hochstatter hit a single to score Maddox Poole for a walkoff victory in a TriCounty Conference game in Granville

on April 23.

Poole went 4 for 5 with two runs and an RBI for PC (13-4), while Johnathon Stunkel was 2 for 5 with a home run, three RBIs and a run, and Traxton Mattingly was 1 for 5 and scored three runs.

Kade Zimmerlein earned the win in relief as he allowed one run on one hit with two strikeouts and no walks in one inning.

Putnam County 10, Woodland/Flanagan-Cornell 0 (5 inn.): Johnathon Stunkel went 3 for 4 with a triple, four runs and two RBIs as the Panthers earned a shutout victory in a Tri-County Conference game in Granville on April 21.

Maddox Poole was 2 for 3 with three RBIs and a run for PC and Kade Zimmerlein was 3 for 3 with a double, two RBIs and a run.

Jacob Furar and Rudy Villagomez combined on a one-hit shutout, striking out three and walking two.

Putnam County 16, Woodland 0 (4 inn.): Johnathon Stunkel went 4 for 4 with a

7th and 8th grade Putnam County Volleyball team awards

double, four runs and three RBIs as the Panthers cruised to a Tri-County Conference victory in Streator on April 27.

Traxton Mattingly went 3 for 4 with two doubles, three runs and two RBIs for PC, while Kade Zimmerlein went 3 for 4 with two runs and two RBIs.

Maddox Poole earned the win with four shutout innings, allowing five hits and striking out three.

TRACK & FIELD

At Granville: Sarah Wiesbrock won the 800, Sofie Borri won the 1,600 and Makenna Wrobleski won the long jump to lead the Putnam County girls to a victory in a triangular on April 13.

In the boys meet, Alex Rodriguez swept the throws with tosses of 15.71 meters in the shot put and 49.87 meters in the discus as the Panthers placed second.

Carter Baxter won the 800 (2:11.71) and the 1,600 (5:13.35) for PC. – Shaw Local News Network

Photo provided by PCJH Award winners for the Putnam County 8th grade volleyball team were Lillian Bouxsen (Most Improved Server), Savannah Grasser (Most Improved Attacker) and Anni Judd (Most Improved Passer).

Photo provided by PCJH

Emily Reyes was named as the Putnam County 7th grade volleyball team’s Most Improved Passer.

Photo provided by PCJH Allyza Mucu was named as the Putnam County 7th grade volleyball team’s Most Improved Passer.

Photos provided by PCJH

ABOVE: Natalie Guadiana and Lillian Bouxsein were named co-MVPs for the Putnam County 8th grade volleyball team. BELOW: Brynn Chamberlain (left), Guillianna Cimei and Reagan Douehling (not pictured) were named co-MVPs for the Putnam County 7th grade volleyball team.

Here’s who the Bears selected in the 2026 NFL Draft

By MICHAL DWOJAK mdwojak@shawmedia.com

The NFL draft is in the books.

The Chicago Bears selected seven prospects over three days. They added players on both sides of the ball that both general manager Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson believe can compete at their positions during spring workouts and training camp starting in July.

This year’s draft was different compared to others during Poles’ tenure. It was the first time the Bears mostly drafted at the end of rounds after reaching the NFC divisional round. That forced the Bears to miss out on some position runs that happened earlier in the round.

The rookies will get their first taste of life with the Bears during rookie minicamp on May 8 and 9.

Here’s a look at every player the Bears drafted this weekend.

First round, No. 25: Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon

The Bears got a guy they weren’t sure would drop to No. 25. But Chicago selected a versatile and speedy safety who Poles believes can start opposite of Coby Bryant.

Thieneman proved to have a nose to the ball during his three seasons in college. Over 39 games for both Purdue and Oregon, Thieneman totaled eight interceptions, forced two fumbles and totaled 188 tackles. He earned Second Team AP All-American honors and First Team All-Big Ten honors with the Ducks last season.

Second round, No. 57: Logan Jones, C, Iowa

After the Bears found themselves with a long-term need at center with the sudden retirement of Drew Dalman, Poles used his second-round selection to draft who he hopes can become the center of the future.

Jones originally arrived at Iowa to be a defensive tackle but developed into one of the best center prospects in the draft. He started 50 games at the spots over four seasons and earned plenty of honors for his senior season. Jones was named a First Team AP All-American. First Team All-Big Ten and won the Rimington Trophy, given to the nation’s top center.

Third round, No. 69: Sam Roush, TE, Stanford

It didn’t seem like the Bears would draft a tight end heading into the draft after selecting Colston Loveland at No. 10 last year and with veteran Cole Kmet on the roster. But the Bears saw value in having a third blocking tight end who can catch as well.

Roush put up some good numbers as a receiver for the Cardinal on top of his blocking ability at 6-foot-6 and 267 pounds. He caught a career-high 49 passes and two touchdowns to go along with 545 receiving yards.

Third round, No. 89: Zavion Thomas, WR, LSU

The Bears entered the weekend wanting to add speed to their wide receiver room behind Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III even after bringing in Kalif Raymond. They found a speedy tool they can use on offense and on special teams in the third round when they selected LSU wide receiver Zavion Thomas at No. 89.

Thomas had career highs of 41 receptions and four touchdowns with the Tigers last season to go along with 488 receiving yards. He also returned

60 punts over four seasons averaging 9.7 yards per return and 35 kicks averaging 27.2 yards per return. Thomas returned two kickoffs for a touchdown and one punt for a touchdown.

He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.28 seconds at the NFL scouting combine.

Fourth round, No. 124: Malik Muhammad, CB, LSU

Poles continued to add speed to his defense in the fourth round when he selected LSU cornerback Malik Muhammad at No. 124.

Muhammad impressed with the Tigers as a cornerback who could play well in press, man coverage despite his shorter frame at 6-foot, 182-pounds. He played in 41 games over three seasons with the Longhorns and finished with two interceptions, four passes defended, one sack and 30 tackles, 2.5 for a loss.

Muhammad ran the 40-yard dash in 4.42 seconds at the NFC scouting combine.

Fifth round, No. 166: Keyshaun Elliott, LB, Arizona State

Chicago added experience and flexibility to its linebacker and special teams rooms when the Bears selected Arizona

State linebacker Keyshaun Elliott in the fifth round at No. 166.

Elliott proved he has an ability to get to the ball while also conveying the plays on the field for the Sun Devils. He had a career-high seven sacks last season to go along with 98 tackles, 14 of which were for a loss. The Bears were impressed with how Elliott prepared in order to get to the ball and expect him to make an impact on special teams.

Sixth round, No. 213: Jordan van den Berg, DT, Georgia Tech

The Bears traded their final two seventh-round picks to go up and get their first defensive lineman of the draft, selecting Georgia Tech Jordan van den Berg in the sixth round at No. 213.

Van den Berg, who was born in South Africa, took off with Georgia Tech over the past two seasons after spending the first four years of his career with Iowa Western Community College and Penn State. He earned First Team All-ACC honors last season after he had 44 tackles, 11 for a loss, with three sacks and a blocked kick.

At 6-foot-3 and 310 pounds, Van den Berg is an interesting prospect given his size and speed.

AP file photos

LEFT: Oregon defensive back Dillon Thieneman defends last season game against Rutgers in Piscataway, New Jersey. RIGHT: LSU linebacker Tylen Singleton (left), gives wide receiver Zavion Thomas (right) a high-five as Thomas returns a kickoff for a touchdown against Baylor a couple years ago in Houston.

PUBLIC AUCTION

ADVERTISING NOTICE

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

BUREAU & HENRY COUNTY FARM LAND

248.02 +/- acres

The following described farmland will be offered by PUBLIC AUCTION on: Friday, May 8th, 2026 10:00 A.M.

Online bidding available @redigerauctionservice.com

Sale day Location: 207 W Commercial St. Neponset, Il 61345 Neponset Community Center

Tract 1 – 59.88+/- assessed acres located in the N ½ of the NW1/4, Section 23, Neponset Twp., Bureau County, Illinois. 57.62+/- tillable acres with a 129.4 Crop Productivity Index as per Surety.

Tax ID# 19-23-100-006 2024 Taxes paid in 2025 - $730.18

Tax ID# 19-23-100-002 2024 Taxes paid in 2025 $1,882.48

Tract 2 – 120+/- assessed acres located in the N1/2 and the SW1/4 of the NE1/4, Section 23, Neponset Twp., Bureau County, Illinois. 112.74+/- tillable acres with a 120.1 Crop Productivity Index as per Surety.

Tax ID# 19-23-200-001 2024 Taxes paid in 2025 $4,226.52

Tract 3 – 15.01+/- assessed acres located in the NE corner of the NE ¼, Section 2, Wethersfield Twp. Henry County, Illinois. 13.43+/- tillable acres with a 133.3 Crop Productivity Index as per surety.

Tax ID# 25-02-100-001 2024 Taxes paid in 2025 $653.90

Tract 4 – 53.13+/- assessed acres located in lot 3, ex NW corner Otley’s 1st addition & PT SW SE Section 34 Kewanee Twp., Henry Co. Illinois. 46.56+/- tillable acres with a 126.6 Crop Productivity Index as per surety.

Tax ID# 20-34-400-010 2024 Taxes paid in 2025 $3,018.48

Plat Locations, Aerial Photos, Soil Map and Legal Description information available @redigerauctionservice.com

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

1. Subject parcels will be sold by the assessed acre with no combinations

2. The successful bidder will be required to enter into a standard purchase agreement contract. 10% of the contract purchase price will be due immediately following the auction. A bank letter of buyer qualifications shall be provided by the buyer to the seller at contract signing. The balance will be due and payable at closing on or before June 8th 2026

3. The seller shall provide a title insurance policy in the amount of the purchase price of the subject properties.

4. The 2025 real estate taxes due and payable in 2026 will be credited, based on the most current evidence available, by the seller to the buyer at closing. All subsequent real estate taxes will be the responsibility of the buyer

5. The property is being sold in “AS IS” condition, with no implied warranties of any kind.

6. The information is believed to be accurate. However, we strongly urge all prospective buyers to thoroughly research all pertinent data and to draw their own conclusions.

7. All announcements made the day of the sale take precedence over any previously printed material.

8. It is pertinent that all online bidders contact Rediger Auction Service, at least 3 business days prior to the auction, for qualified registration.

Seller: Gus Hicks

Attorney: Zachary L. Lessard

Barash & Everett Attorneys LLC Kewanee, IL 309-852-5555

Number system will be used – ID required Not responsible for Accidents Rediger Auction Service – Wyanet, IL 815-699-7999

Jeremy Rediger – Jon Moon – Brik Rediger – Rick Rediger Online Bidding available @redigerauctionservice.com

*Open Tenancy 2026

767 • Mobile Home Sales

I, Kelly Goetz, Supervisor of Granville Township, Putnam County, Illinois, do hereby certify

2026 Rules of the Putnam County Board of Review

The Putnam County Board of Review (Board) consists of three members, together with additional alternate members, appointed by the Chairman of the Putnam County Board (35 ILCS 200/6-5 & 6-25). Any Member or Alternate Member of the Board may conduct a hearing. The Board has the authority to confirm, reduce or increase any assessment as appears just. The Board determines the correct assessment, prior to state equalization, of any parcel of real property which is the subject of an appeal, according to the law, based on standards of uniformity, market value, correctness of facts, evidence, exhibits and briefs submitted to or elicited by the Board from an appellant, assessor and/ or other interested parties.

Prior to filing an appeal with the Board, it is strongly recommended that a taxpayer discuss his/her assessment with the Township Assessor and/or the Supervisor of Assessments. Many times the reason for the assessment can be made clear and the need for filing an appeal eliminated. If, after talking with the Township Assessor and/or the Supervisor of Assessments, a taxpayer still wishes to pursue an appeal, he/she should familiarize him/herself with the 2026 Rules of the Board. Note: The time period for filing an appeal is not extended to accommodate discussions between taxpayers and assessors.

The Board is required to make and publish reasonable rules “for the guidance of persons doing business with the Board and for the orderly dispatch of business.” (35 ILCS 200/9-5) These rules, for the 2026 session (taxes payable in 2027) are as follows.

I. Administrative Rules

A. Convening the Board. The Board convenes on or before the Third Monday of June and recesses from day to day as may be necessary.

B. Severability. In the event any section, provision or term of this policy is determined by a court or other authority of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, that determination shall not affect the remaining sections nor provisions, which shall continue in full force and effect. For this purpose, the provisions of this policy are severable.

C. Amendments. The rules may be amended from time to time; said amendments are effective upon their being conspicuously posted and prominently displayed.

D. Failure to Follow Board Rules. Failure to follow any rules, in and of itself, may be grounds for the denial of any change in assessment.

E. Authority of the Board. In connection with any hearing before the Board, the Board has full authority to:

1. Conduct and control the procedure of the hearing.

2. Admit or exclude testimony or other evidence into the record.

3. Administer oaths and affirmations and examine all persons appearing at the hearing to testify or to offer evidence.

4. Require the production of any book, record, paper or document at any stage of the appeal process or at the hearing which is the foundation for any evidence or testimony presented in the appeal. The Board also may request a property inspection to clarify parcel characteristics and/or condition of a subject property. Failure to produce a requested book, record, paper or document or failure to allow a property inspection within the prescribed time frame set by the Board may result in the confirmation of the assessment.

5. Terminate a hearing and require an appellant, appellant’s representative or witness to leave the proceeding, when an appellant or appellant’s agent, attorney or witness engages in threatening, disruptive, vulgar, abusive or obscene conduct or language that delays or protracts a proceeding or refuses to leave a hearing room after a decision has been rendered.

F. Freedom of Information Act. The Board is a public body and is subject to the Freedom of Information Act as defined in Illinois Law (35 ILCS 140/2). The following information is provided in accordance with the Act.

1. The Board is responsible for hearing appeals, corrections and requests for Certificates of Error on property assessments from the County’s four townships, acting on these applications, reviewing and making recommendations on exempt property applications and representing the interest of Putnam County before the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board.

2. The Board’s office is located in the Supervisor of Assessment’s Office, Putnam County Courthouse, P.O. Box 242, 120 N. Fourth Street, Hennepin, Il. 61327.

G. Open Meetings Act. Hearings held by the Board are open to the public, subject to the exceptions cited by the Open Meetings Act (35 ILCS 120/1.02).

1. Audio or video recording is permitted by any person. However, recording cannot disrupt a hearing nor are participants required to identify themselves to facilitate a recording. The Clerk of the Board must be informed in advance that an audio or video recording of a hearing will be made. The audio or video recorder must provide a copy of the video or audiotape to the Board within fifteen (15) days after the hearing and bear the cost of that copy.

2. The Board does not provide transcripts of a hearing. If any party desires a transcript of a hearing, a court reporter must be retained at the expense of that party. That party must provide a certified copy of the transcript to the Board within fifteen (15) days of the hearing and bear the cost of that transcript.

3. The Board’s assigned hearing room has a limited capacity. If any party anticipates the attendance of more than five witnesses or other persons at a hearing, that party must immediately contact the Clerk of the Board, who will attempt to make arrangements for a more suitable venue. If no one has informed the Clerk that a large group is expected and more persons come to a hearing than can be safely permitted in the room, the Board may restrict the number of people in the room to those who can be safely admitted.

4. Public comment may be accepted at the Board’s discretion.

H. Clerk of the Board of Review. The administrative functions of the Board are discharged by the Putnam County Chief County Assessment Officer, who shall act as the Clerk of the Board.

II. Appeal Hearings

The purpose of an appeal hearing is to evaluate a property assessment based upon evidence presented by all concerned parties: typically, appellant and assessor and, where applicable, intervener.

A. Standing. Only a taxpayer or owner of property (or attorney thereof) dissatisfied with a property’s

assessment or a taxing body that has a tax revenue interest in the decision of the Board on an assessment made by any local assessment officer may file an appeal with the Board. Appeals must be filed on the forms provided by the Board of Review and available in the Supervisor of Assessment’s office. All applicable items on the form must be completed. Any non-owner (such as an attorney) filing an appeal on behalf of an owner must have authorization by the owner of record.

B. Date of Filing. All appeals must be filed with the Board of Review on or before 30 days after the date of publication of the current year assessments (35 ILCS 200/16-55).

Appeals are deemed filed on the date

1. officially postmarked by the U. S. Postal Service or by a private mail/delivery service, or 2. hand delivered to the Board of Review office and stamped received.

Filing deadlines may fall on a postal holiday or a Board of Review holiday. In these cases, appeals must be post marked or hand delivered before the final deadline. The Board of Review office is closed on Saturdays and Sundays and the following holidays:

New Year’s Day

Lincoln’s Birthday

President’s Day

Good Friday

Memorial Day

Juneteenth Day

Independence Day

Labor Day

Columbus Day

Election Day

Thanksgiving Day and the following Friday

Christmas Day.

The Board accepts only official postmarks (not metered-mail dates) and hand deliveries on or before deadlines. It does not accept appeal forms nor case-related materials by fax. Late filings are not scheduled for hearings.

C. Appeal Forms and Information. The Board requests that all parties to an appeal utilize the prescribed forms and comparison grids of the Putnam County Board of Review. These forms are available in the Chief County Assessment Office. Neither the Board nor its Clerk will send appeal forms or information by any method other than first class mail.

1. Incomplete Forms. Incomplete appeal forms may not be set for hearing.

2. Contiguous Parcels. When filing an appeal, all contiguous parcels included in that property must be filed on, even if a reduction is sought on only one parcel. For purposes of this rule, contiguous parcels include all parcels that are physically contiguous, have a unity of use and are owned by the same owner(s) of record, including beneficial ownership.

D. Reductions of $100,000 or more. Pursuant to 35 ILCS 200/16-55, if an appellant is requesting a reduction in assessed valuation of $100,000 or more, the Board must notify each respective taxing district. It is therefore required that appellants supply their requested assessment total in the appropriate space on the appeal form. If this information is not provided, the Board will assume the requested assessment is $100,000 or more and thus notify all potentially impacted taxing districts.

E. Submission of Evidence. The Board requires that the original appeal form and evidence, plus three (3) copies of the form and evidence, be submitted at the time of application, except for a documented appraisal report, which must be received in the Board office (irrespective of postmark) no more than ten (10) calendar days after the filing deadline. The Board forwards a copy of each appeal and accompanying evidence to the appropriate township assessor. Any appellant or agent/attorney filing additional evidence with the Board of Review after the initial case submission must forward the additional evidence to the Supervisor of Assessment’s Office. Evidence submitted at the hearing by any party (appellant, assessor or intervener) may be accepted by the Board; however, it may be given less weight than evidence submitted in accordance with Board rules.

F. Hearing Notification. An appellant will be notified by U.S. Mail of the hearing date, time and place of the hearing. If an appellant fails to appear for the hearing, or fails to telephone the Board on the scheduled date and time, the case will be decided on the evidence submitted with the appeal form along with any evidence submitted or presented by other parties to the appeal. If an appellant has requested a hearing by letter, no notice will be sent and the case will be decided upon the evidence submitted by the appellant with the appeal form plus any evidence submitted by other parties to the case: typically the township assessor and/or the Supervisor of Assessments where applicable, an intervener.

G. Scheduled Hearings. Scheduled hearings are not rescheduled due to time constraints of the property tax cycle.

H. Location of Hearings. Hearings of the Board are held at the Putnam County Courthouse, 120 N. Fourth Street, Hennepin, Il. 61327. Meetings may be held at other locations in the County at the discretion of the Board.

I. Hearing Format. Appeal hearings are conducted in the following manner: The appellant or his/ her representative may present testimony regarding the assessment and are required to answer any questions from the Board. The Township Assessor or the Supervisor of Assessments is expected to be present to give evidence and testimony concerning the property and its assessment. Each party may then present closing or rebuttal remarks. This concludes the evidentiary portion of the hearing. Board Members then deliberate between or among themselves, considering the evidence, testimony and rebuttal, and generally announce their decision at the close of the hearing.

J. Hearing Length. Because of the volume of appeals before the Board, most hearings are scheduled at fifteen-minute intervals. All presentations by an appellant and an assessor, along with questions and the deliberation of the Board, must be completed within this time frame.

K. Decisions After all hearings are completed for a township, official findings for each case are mailed to all appellants or their representatives. No written decisions are released prior to this time.

L. Evidence Submitted by the Township Assessor and/or Supervisor of Assessment’s Office. All evidence to support a township assessor’s and/or the Supervisor of Assessment’s opinion

Continued from previous page

of assessed value, including complete Property Record Cards for subject properties and any comparables, must be submitted to the Board no less than five (5) calendar days prior to a hearing. For each appeal, a total of three (3) copies of the evidence must be submitted to the Board. The Board also strongly encourages township assessors to forward township evidence to appellants five (5) days prior to their respective scheduled hearing dates.

M. Evidence Submitted by Interveners. A taxing body wishing to intervene in a matter before the Board must file a Request to Intervene with the Board of Review at least five (5) days in advance of the scheduled hearing. This form is available in the Supervisor of Assessment’s office. Any evidence being presented by a taxing district needs to be supplied to the Assessor, appellant and Board of Review prior to the hearing.

III. Bases for Assessment Appeals

A. Appeals Based upon Incorrect Assessor Data.

1. Definition. Incorrect data includes, but is not limited to, size of the site, size of the improvements, physical features and location attributes.

2. Evidence. Appeals based on the application of incorrect subject-property data by a township assessor must include a copy of the property record card for the subject, a statement highlighting the incorrect data and evidence of the correct data, such as a plat of survey, photograph or construction documents.

3. Assessor Access to Property. Appellants are urged to schedule a property inspection with their Assessor’s office for appeals related to the description, physical characteristics and/or condition of the subject property.

B. Appeals Based on the Recent Sale of a Subject Property.

The Board considers the sale of a subject property, which occurred within twelve months of the assessment date, as possible evidence of market value. The Board requires the following information in such an appeal:

1. Documents that disclose the purchase price of the property and the date of purchase including the Settlement Statement, or RESPA, and the State of Illinois PTAX form.

2. Testimony and or documentation revealing the identity of seller(s) and buyer(s) and any relationship between or among them (other than seller and buyer) including, but not limited to, those existing by blood, marriage, corporate parent-subsidiary companies or by virtue of ownership of non-publicly held stock, and whether or not the transaction was arms length.

3. An itemized Bill of Sale, signed by seller(s) and buyer(s), and supporting documentation of the fair cash value of any personal property included in the sale of the subject property.

C. Appeals Based on Fair Cash Value.

1. Definition. Fair cash value is defined as “the amount for which a property can be sold in the due course of business and trade, not under duress, between a willing buyer and a willing seller.” (35 ILCS 200/1-50) Fair cash value is often used interchangeably with market value.

2. Burden of Proof. When fair cash value is the basis of an appeal, the value of the subject property must be proved by a preponderance of the evidence.

3. Appraisal Evidence. The best evidence of fair cash value is a professional appraisal done for ad valorem purposes, valuing a subject property as of the lien date, January 1st of the current assessment year. Appraisals obtained for the purpose of an appeal this assessment year must state the subject’s value as of January 1, 2026.

a. To be considered, an appraisal must be:

i. Prepared in conformance to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice as currently adopted by the Appraisal Standards Board.

ii. Signed by the appraiser(s).

iii. Presented in entirety, including all exhibits, with no missing pages.

b. Appraisal testimony offered to prove the valuation asserted by any party shall not be accepted at the hearing unless a documented appraisal report has been timely submitted.

c. Except for homestead property, appraisal testimony offered to prove the valuation asserted may be given only by a preparer of the appraisal whose signature appears thereon.

An appraisal which does not accompany an initial Appeal Form is acceptable to the Board, if it is received by the Board (irrespective of post mark) within ten (10) calendar days of the filing deadline and if it is distributed by the appellant in the following manner: one (1) original and two (2) copies to the Board of Review and one (1) copy to the appropriate assessor’s office. Appraisals which are not filed in a timely manner nor appropriately distributed to the Board of Review and appropriate assessor may not be considered by the Board.

4. Recent Usable Sales of Comparable Properties. In lieu of a professional appraisal, recent usable sales of comparable properties may be submitted as evidence for a fair cash value appeal. A usable sale is an arms length transaction of a property between or among unrelated parties, who are not under any duress to buy or sell the property which has been offered on the open market and advertised for sale.

If recent usable sales of comparable properties are submitted as evidence for a fair cash value appeal, it is preferable to select the best three (3) comparables which have closed as close to the lien date, January 1, 2026, as possible. Comparables should be located near the subject and/or in the same neighborhood. They should be similar in style (e.g., ranch, 2-story, splitlevel, etc.), construction (e.g., brick, frame, with or without a basement, etc.), age, size (e.g., square footage of lot and building), quality and condition to the subject. If comparables are not located in the subject’s neighborhood, additional explanation may be needed to confirm their similarity.

Characteristics of the subject and three (3) comparables must be displayed on the Residential Comparison Grid, and submitted with the original appeal, together with pictures of the subject and comparables. These forms are available in the Supervisor of Assessment’s office. An appellant or agent/attorney is reminded to view comparable properties to confirm their similarity to the subject.

Comparable properties offered in testimony but not submitted with the original appeal may not be considered by the Board, unless provided to all parties prior to a hearing.

5. Other Evidence. Other evidence of fair cash value may consist of, but is not limited to, the following:

a. Listing contract and Multiple Listing Service history of a subject property for 2025 and 2026.

b. A complete (final) sworn contactor’s affidavit of costs, if the improvement is new construction, together with a Settlement Statement (or RESPA).

6. Income Producing Property. When an assessment appeal for an income-producing property is based on fair cash value, the income and expense data of the property must be submitted as evidence.

a. Where the entire property is covered under a single lease, the entire lease must be submitted as evidence.

b. Where multiple leases are in place, the Board will consider lease summaries, audited financial statements, rent rolls with totals and representative samples of leases submitted by the taxpayer and any such documents requested by the Board.

i. If the property is fully residential with six or fewer units, the appellant must provide to the Board at the time of filing the operating statements, audits and all other pertinent information.

ii. If the property has seven or more units or has a non-residential use, the appellant must submit, at the time of filing, income and expense statements for 2023, 2024 and 2025.

c. Vacancy. If an appeal for reduced assessment is based upon vacancy, the appellant must provide an affidavit of occupancy.

D. Appeals Based on Equity.

1. Definition. Real property assessments shall be valued uniformly as the General Assembly provides by law (Art.9, Sec 2, Illinois Constitution of 1970). An inequitable assessment is one that values one property at a higher level of assessment (relative to fair cash value) than assessments of comparable properties. (Note: Courts in Illinois have found that mathematical exactitude is not an absolute requirement in estimating property assessments.)

2. Burden of Proof. When unequal treatment in the assessment process is the basis of an appeal, inequity must be proved by clear and convincing evidence.

3. Evidence Considered. Comparable properties usually are submitted as evidence for equity appeals, arguing that the assessed value per square foot of a subject is higher than that of comparables.

It is preferable to select the best three (3) comparables. Comparables should be located near the subject and/or in the same neighborhood. They should be similar in style (e.g., ranch, 2-story, split-level, etc.), construction (e.g., brick, frame, with or without a basement, etc.), age, size (e.g., square footage of above ground living area), quality and condition to the subject. If comparables are not located in the subject’s neighborhood, additional explanation may be needed to confirm their similarity.

Characteristics of the subject and three (3) comparables must be displayed on the Residential Comparison Grid and submitted with the original appeal, together with pictures of the subject and comparables.

An appellant or agent/attorney is reminded to view potential comparables to confirm their similarity to the subject.

Comparable properties, offered in testimony but not submitted with the original appeal, may not be considered by the Board, unless provided to all parties prior to a hearing.

4. Income-producing Properties. When an assessment appeal for an income-producing property is based on equity, the income and expense data of the property must be submitted as evidence, including all leases and/or rent rolls for the three (3) years previous to the lien date.

E. Appeals Based upon Matters of Law.

1. Definition. Matters of law include such factors as carrying forward prior year residential appeal results, preferential assessment and farmland valuation.

2. Evidence. Appeals alleging an incorrect application of law must include a brief, citing the law in question, as well as copies of any legal opinions and/or judicial rulings regarding the law in question.

3. Prior Board of Review Decisions. Owner occupied residential property assessment appeals based upon prior year Board of Review decisions should contain the Notice of Finding from the Board of Review from the general assessment year or from the subsequent year where applicable. Aside from substantial cause, prior year decisions on owner-occupied residential properties should be carried forward until the next general assessment year, subject to the Chief County Assessment Officer’s equalization. Cases based solely on this reason will be set for review only after a review by the Board or its staff.

4. Additional Copy Required. In addition to the customary one (1) original and three (3) copies of the appeal form and accompanying documentary evidence, an additional one (1) copy must be provided to the Board. The Board will forward the additional copy to the Board’s legal counsel.

IV. Omitted Property

A. Authority. The Board has the authority to place an assessment on omitted property (35 ILCS 200/9-160, et seq.).

B. Notice. If the Board initiates proceedings designed to place omitted property on the tax rolls, the Board gives at least ten (10) working days written notice to the concerned parties, advising them of the Board’s proposed action.

V. Non-Homestead Exemptions

A. Applications. Applications for Non-Homestead exemptions must be filed on forms of the Illinois Department of Revenue: PTAX-300, PTAX-300-FS (for federal and state agencies) and PTAX300-R (for religious entities). These forms, along with the general and specific instructions for their completion, are available at the Supervisor of Assessment’s office. If an exemption for multiple parcels is being sought, separate applications may be required. See the Illinois Department of Revenue general instructions to determine the required number of separate applications. The petition and supporting documentation must be submitted in duplicate. According to the Illinois Department of Revenue, failure to answer all questions and provide all evidence will result in the return of the petition and delay a final decision.

Continued on next page

PUBLIC NOTICE IN TH E CIRC UIT CO URT OF THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRC UIT

under independent administration were issued on April 15, 2026 to Kristin M. Jagg, who may be contacted c/o her attorney as set forth below.

B. Documents. The following documents must be attached to the application forms:

PUTNAM COUNTY, ILLINOIS

2. Picture of the property

3. Notarized affidavit of use

1. Proof of ownership (deed, contract for deed, title insurance policy, copy of the condemnation order and proof of payment, etc.)

4. Copies of any contracts or leases on the property

5. Parsonage form, where applicable.

IN RE : The Estate of A NNE TTE MARIE GRIFFIN, Deceased Case # 26 PR 4 NOTICE TO CRE DITORS OF CLAIM DA TE

C. Notification of Units of Government. If the request for an exemption would reduce the assessment by $100,000 or more, the applicant or agent for the applicant must notify the units of government in their jurisdiction. A copy of the letters showing the notification of each Unit of Government must be submitted with the application at time of filing.

Notice is given of the death of Annette Marie Griffin, on February 8, 2026, and that Letters of Office as Administrator under independent administration were issued on April 15, 2026 to Kristin M. Jagg, who may be contacted c/o her attorney as set forth below.

Pyszka Member

D. The Board of Review makes a recommendation to the Illinois Department of Revenue as to whether or not a non-homestead exemption is allowed. The Illinois Department of Revenue reviews the evidence and renders the final decision.

GRIFFIN, Deceased

Case # 26 PR 4 NOTICE TO CRE DITORS OF CLAIM DA TE

Claims may be filed

six (6) months from the date of the first publication of this Notice of Claim Date or three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery, whichever is later, and any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit C ourt, Putnam County C ourthouse, 120 N. Fourth Street, PO Box 207, Hennepin, IL 61327, or with the Repres entative c/o her attorney, or both

Within ten (10) days after a claimant files its claim, if filed with the Court, the claimant must mail or deliver a copy of the claim to the Repres entative c/o her attorney of record AND file with the C ourt proof of mailing or delivery of said copies.

Claims may be filed six (6) months from the date of the first publication of this Notice of Claim Date or three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery, whichever is later, and any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit C ourt, Putnam County C ourthouse, 120 N. Fourth Street, PO Box 207, Hennepin, IL 61327, or with the Repres entative c/o her attorney, or both Within ten (10) days after a claimant files its claim, if filed with the Court, the claimant must mail or deliver a copy of the claim to the Repres entative c/o her attorney of record AND file with the C ourt proof of mailing or delivery of said copies.

Scott A. Shore, Attorney At Law 227 E. Court St.P.O. Box 231 Hennepin, IL 61327 Tel. 815- 925- 7117 ShoreLaw And Mediation@gmail. com

(Published Putnam C ounty Record Apr. 22, 29, May. 6, 2026) 2319498

Scott A. Shore, Attorney At Law

227 E. Court St.P.O. Box 231 Hennepin, IL 61327 Tel. 815- 925- 7117 ShoreLaw And Mediation@gmail. com

(Published Putnam C ounty Record Apr. 22, 29, May. 6, 2026) 2319498